Accurate Quote by Dallin H. Oaks
“I think it is an accurate statement to say that some people consider feelings of same-gender attraction to be the defining fact of their existence. There are also people who consider the defining fact of their existence that they are from Texas or that they were in the United States Marines. Or they are red-headed, or they are the best basketball player that ever played for such-and-such a high school. People can adopt a characteristic as the defining example of their existence and often those characteristics are physical.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: General Conference, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter‑day Saints, 2022
People often let a single trait—whether sexual orientation, birthplace, or physical feature—become the core of their identity, overlooking the broader complexity of self.
In simple terms: A single characteristic can dominate one’s sense of self.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the full spectrum of your identity.
Themes
identity
self‑definition
diversity
stereotype
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- community building
- mental health counseling
- education on inclusivity
Key Concepts
essentialism
social labeling
intersectionality
Questions to Reflect On
- How might you broaden your self‑definition beyond a single label?
- What impact does this have on relationships?
A Different Perspective
Reducing identity to one trait can limit personal development and social understanding.
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