Wendy Reese, wife of BYU President C. Shane Reese, shares her insights on the vital role of connections in our lives. She reflects on how personal experiences and evolving communication shape our relationships. Wendy emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions, nurturing social capital, and the transformative power of covenants with Jesus Christ. She inspires listeners to cherish sacred moments and highlights how these divine connections foster both personal growth and community strength.
Meaningful human connections, centered on shared values, foster emotional well-being and contribute to personal and community development.
Covenants with Jesus Christ serve as the foundation for enduring relationships, enhancing mutual respect and spiritual enrichment among individuals.
Deep dives
The Importance of Human Connections
Human connections are essential for a fulfilling life, and the speaker emphasizes that they should not be taken for granted. Reflecting on recent experiences, the speaker shares how meaningful interactions with students have enriched their life and encouraged personal growth. The discussion highlights the difference between superficial interactions and deeper human contact, which fosters a sense of belonging and emotional well-being. As the new semester begins, it is encouraged to actively seek and improve connections, whether with new acquaintances or established relationships.
The Role of Social Capital
Social capital is identified as a vital component of community and personal development, as expressed during a recent speech by the Governor of Utah. The speaker elaborates on how shared values and mutual support among individuals allow them to achieve common goals, thus enhancing their collective experience. Illustrative examples such as simple acts of kindness, respect, and support demonstrate how these connections can strengthen the community as a whole. The importance of nurturing these relationships is reaffirmed, highlighting how they contribute to individual happiness and societal success.
The Power of Covenants in Relationships
Covenants are explained as foundational to meaningful and enduring relationships, differentiating them from simple contracts based on self-interest. The speaker reflects on personal experiences that illustrate the transformative effects of covenantal connections, particularly in relation to faith and community. By fostering relationships grounded in mutual respect and moral commitments, individuals can create bonds that support one another in ways that are spiritually enriching. The ultimate connection with Jesus Christ serves as the prototype for all relationships, emphasizing the importance of faith in strengthening bonds with others.
We all need connections. When we center our connections on covenants with Jesus Christ, we and others will be strengthened. Wendy W. Reese, wife of BYU President C. Shane Reese, delivered this devotional address on January 14, 2025. You can access the talk here.