Intellegence

"You must get all of the education that you possibly can. Life has become so complex and competitive. You cannot assume that you have entitlements due you. You will be expected to put forth great effort and to use your best talents to make your way to the most wonderful future of which you are capable.  Sacrifice a car; sacrifice anything that is needed to be sacrificed to qualify yourselves to do the work of the world. That world will in large measure pay you what it thinks you are worth, and your worth will increase as you gain education and proficiency in your chosen field." - President Gordon B. Hinckley

No one enjoys being called stupid.  We've all been called stupid at least once in our life, and it hurts.  I am sure that everyone wonders why we are called stupid.  This is said when one person believes that another lacks that persons intellectual advantages.  You know that could very well be true.  But it is also false.  One person may be superior in knowledge than one person.  But that person could be strong in knowledge someplace else.  I have places where I'm pretty smart, but I sure can't brag about it because someone else knows a lot more than I do.

In Doctrine and Covenants 130:18 it reads, "Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection."  Everything we learn here on earth is one of the few things we carry with us to heaven.  How it will be used it don't matter.  We are to study as much as possible, and to use it while we are on this earth for good.  Now how do we gain more knowledge?  In verse 19 of the same section reads, "And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come."  Now you may be wondering "why does it say obedience?"  You obviously have to work to gain knowledge of any kind.  But obedience is using that knowledge properly.  You are not going to study computer graphics and start raising cattle.  Since knowledge is universal it doesn't end once you've ended college or finished the text book.

There are levels in knowledge.  Its much like diving.  When you swim you can't see very much of the bottom.  Snorkeling you can see more, but it's not all.  Scuba diving you can see even more, and yet there is still places you can't reach.  There are many levels in learning and understanding of your chosen subject.  As you continue studying in what ever subject you grow in understanding of that subject.  As you apply what you learn that understanding multiplies, not just grow. So what ever subject you may be studying (Science, Theology, Mechanics or Com. Tech to name a few) continue in those studies and use them to build a better world.  Don't settle for what you already have.  Study EVERYTHING!  You might find something that will enhance what you already know and you will be able to communicate better with others.  I really enjoy learning about everything and I've gained a lot of knowledge that build me everyday.  The same could be said for you too.