Could Primary Songs Be the Answer to My Perfectionism?
The simple truths in Primary songs can reconnect us to God’s perfect love.
I’ve always struggled with perfectionism. Whenever I hear the question “What lack I yet?” my stomach turns (Matthew 19:20). When a leader extends an inspired invitation, I panic. And when I hear stories of others overcoming insurmountable odds, I feel like I’m falling short.
This conference, many talks addressed perfectionism and finding peace in the gospel. However, one message in particular spoke to my heart: the talk on Primary music from Sister Tracy Y. Browning, Second Counselor in the Primary General Presidency.
After pondering her message, I found four ways Primary songs can help us overcome perfectionism:
1. Remind Us of Simple Doctrine
Perfectionism can be paralyzing, but as Elder Michael Cziesla of the Seventy reminded us: “Applying the simplicity that is in Christ makes us … free to prioritize the things we can do rather than being weighed down by the things we cannot do.”
Sister Browning explained that Primary music can do just that: It “links the Savior’s doctrine to our memory.” When we get stuck in the details of what we can’t do, Primary songs remind us of the simple teachings of Jesus Christ.
2. Carry the Message to Our Hearts
Sister Browning shared, “Through the simple songs of Primary, the Holy Spirit has transcended language barriers and filled my heart with His whispering.” Similarly, the Lord has used Primary music to carry messages past my barriers of anxiety so I can more fully understand the true spirit of the message.
At conference, the choir sang “If the Savior Stood Beside Me.” At first, I felt self-conscious about my imperfections. But as the song continued, I felt peace, knowing that if the Savior stood beside me, I would feel His love and mercy, not His judgment.
3. Help Us Remember Times We’ve Felt the Spirit
When anxiety gets in the way of feeling the Spirit, sacred music can remind us of moments when the Spirit has testified of God’s love for us.
I recently moved and felt prompted to join the local institute choir. However, I was worried about showing up unprepared. That day, I heard the song “His Eye Is on the Sparrow,” which I had sung with my institute choir in my hometown.
I remembered the Spirit I felt singing with other young adults, even when I wasn’t perfectly prepared. I was reminded that God loves me and wants me to follow Him, even when I’m not perfect.
4. Invite Christ into Our Lives
Elder John D. Amos of the Seventy taught that the remedy to feeling like we aren’t good enough or our life is out of order is “to add more of what invites Jesus Christ into your life.” Primary songs teach us about Jesus Christ’s life, teachings, love, and Atonement. As we sing these songs, we invite Him into our lives.
When I sing Primary songs, I can connect with Christ, invite Him into my life, and feel His power. This simple answer from general conference has given me hope to find peace from my perfectionism.