justfunjtsings

President John Taylor had an incredible love for people and a great understanding of interpersonal relationships.  Once, while serving as President of the Council of the Twelve, after the Saints had reached Utah, two old and faithful brethren approached him about a strong and bitter quarrel between them. They had resolved to abide by whatever decision Brother Taylor might render. So they called on him, explained that they had seriously quarreled, and asked if he would listen to their story.

He said, “Brethren, before I hear your case, I would like very much to sing one of the songs of Zion for you.”  A very talented and moving singer, President Taylor then sang a hymn to the men. Seeing its effect, he remarked that he never heard one of the songs of Zion but that he wanted to listen to one more. So the two brethren consented to hearing a second hymn.  After the second song, President Taylor remarked that he had heard there was luck in odd numbers, so with their consent he would sing still another song.  Afterwards he said, “Now, brethren, I do not want to wear you out, but if you will forgive me and listen to one more hymn, I promise to stop singing and will hear your case.”  By the time he had finished with his fourth selection, the two brethren were melted to tears; they arose, shook hands, and asked President Taylor to excuse them for having called upon him.  His singing had reconciled their feelings toward each other, never to be tarnished again.