What's in a Name?

When I was debating what the title of this blog site should be, the 3 words - listen, learn, practice - came to my mind.  This simple phrase is actually what I recorded following the opening prayer of the opening session of the most recent General Conference.  Since I didn't write down the name of the brother giving the prayer, I can't attribute these words to him, but I thank him for them anyway.  I am using them as a guide to studying the messages given during conference.

1. LISTEN - In order to get anything out of the conference talks I must first hear them.  I can accomplish this by watching them, listening to them or reading them.  This works best if it is done with an open and receptive heart.  Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught that no matter how effectively a speaker may teach, "the content of a message and the witness of the Holy Ghost penetrate into the heart only  if a receiver allows them to enter." 

2.  LEARN - After I receive the conference message, then it is my responsibility to learn how it applies to me.  In the April 2012 Ensign there is a wonderful article entitled, "Getting More Out of General Conference" by Michael Barber and David Marsh.  In it they suggest 4 helpful study methods to enhance my learning as I review each talk.
        Ask questions. What does the Lord want me to learn from this message? How does this talk enhance my understanding of a gospel principle or a scripture? What do I learn from the stories?
        Write an outline. Divide the talk into sections and write a summary that explains the main idea in each section.  
This outline might come in very handy if I am ever asked to give a talk based on one of the General Conference messages.
        Identify various elements within the talk.  Take note of such things as doctrines, scriptures, stories, warnings, lists, testimonies, invitations to actions and blessings promised.  
        Study the talk more than once. Each time you study, make note of new insights you receive.
I like the idea of focusing on one specific talk each week.  This gives me time to read it several times and really dissect it and glean new ideas.
During my learning  I also like to ponder on other recent messages I have heard or read that may add to my understanding of the concepts being taught.  Frequently the Sunday School or Relief Society lessons tie in or I see reoccurring themes in my scripture study or conversations with others.

3. PRACTICE - This is usually the most difficult step of the conference study process for me. Listening for inspiration, writing it down and acting upon it. What do I need to do now that I know what I know?  How do these truths apply to MY life?  What do I need to change?  How can I incorporate this message into each day?
I like the word practice for this phase.  To me it is a kind word.  It doesn't demand perfection from the get go.  It gently says "Now work on this and eventually you will get it right." No one expects perfection from a practice session. It is where I can try, make mistakes, hopefully learn from my mistakes, and then try again. Practice makes perfect, it isn't perfect yet, but it will be one day if I keep at it. I try to remember that this life is full of practice sessions.  The final performance, and perfection, come later.

Listen. Learn. Practice.  Does anyone want to join me?