Beyond the Shade of the Mango Tree: Reflections on What God Sees in Us

by Edward Dube, Tad R Callister (Contributor)

Elder Edward Dube grew up in rural Zimbabwe (then Southern Rhodesia), against the backdrop of civil war. From humble beginnings, he worked hard in the fields, walked miles for water, and sacrificed for the privilege of education. There, in Silobela, his mother would sometimes gather her children and teach them in the shade of the mango trees near their home. But we can’t learn everything we need to know if we stay in the comfort of a tree’s shade. Beyond the Shade of the Mango Reflections on What God Sees in Us shows us how our Heavenly Father speaks to and magnifies His children who turn to Him. Elder Dube’s story is in some ways the same as many of God’s children’s, but in other ways his experiences are vastly different. From growing up in war-torn Zimbabwe, where he discovered the gospel at age twenty-two, to his Church leadership experiences in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Nigeria, and the United States, Elder Dube’s stories and insights offer fresh perspectives on core gospel teachings. Through Elder Dube’s own personal experiences along with teachings of latter-day prophets and the scriptures, Beyond the Shade of the Mango Tree teaches us that we can come to see ourselves as the Lord sees us―His beloved children, with the potential to become like Him.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction, Lds, Inspirational, Spirituality, Africa, Biography

157 pages, Hardcover

Published June 12, 2021

Reviews

[Chrisanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some years ago I was listening to a conference when a younger Edward Dube appeared on the screen. As he finished his comments, my grandpa nodded his head approvingly and said "He's a good man." My grandpa rarely gives all-encompassing judgements. He has known many men in high positions, hosted many of them in his home, and knows that, however highly placed, whatever their leadership title, humans are humans--- that make human mistakes and have human habits. So I took notice as he told of the times he had worked with this man during the 18 months he had lived in Zimbabwe--of his humility, his work ethic, and his knowledge.

Earlier today, I was thinking about the quote attributed to St. Francis of Assisi: "Preach the gospel at all times and, if necessary, use words." Dube's book is that quote. As few words as possible are focused on himself---so much is focused outward. I thought his metaphor of the Mango Tree is a beautiful one and was particularly struck by the final 5 chapters. Racism, the worth of individuals, thought, and hard things are all particularly pertinent topics right now. I hope this is not the last that we read from him.

[Shiloah · Rating 5 out of 5]

“We can’t learn everything we need to know if we stay in the comfort of a tree’s shade.” - Elder Dube

What an inspirational book. His messages were simple, profound, and enlightening. I appreciate his candid sharing of his life and lessons in Zimbabwe.

I almost skipped grabbing this gem at Deseret book when we were visiting our daughter and son—in-law I’m Rexburg, ID. She had shown me in before we arrived in a picture. When the lady at the register suggested I get one more book to save $, I ran to grab this one. I’m so glad I did.

[James Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

An amazing life of faith and dedication to Jesus Christ.

I use ratings to decide which books I am going to buy, and I recently decided I am partially responsible for inflating the ratings on books. Either they were 5 star or 1 star. I decided to use the star rating more objectively as follows:
★★★★★ Great book! Can’t wait to read it again (and I will).
★★★★☆ Good book. I am glad I read this.
★★★☆☆ OK book. Nothing special but not bad.
★★☆☆☆ Not good. Why did I waste my time?
★☆☆☆☆ Lousy. I didn’t finish.

[Perryapril2 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very inspirational read about the conversion of Edward Dube to Jesus Christ and to the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

I loved the wisdom that his mom provided to him- from his early years all the way to the end of her days. Although not a member of the church, she was a faithful follower of Jesus Christ who taught Edward to work hard, pray to God and expect miracles! I love the lessons she taught him and the example she gave him of trusting in the Lord.

I love learning about his wife and her faithfulness. As a convert of the church at the age of 14 she never looked back! She has been a faithful and inspirational companion to him! She (they) would walk 9 miles to church, wait for him after church to finish his responsibilities as branch President, then walk 9 miles home- all while being pregnant! She is a rock to him and has encouraged and supported his responsibilities in church!

I love the lesson to have faith to go and have faith to stay!

I love the humble way that this book was written. I read and listened to the book which was cool because he is the narrator .

I love the image/story of being yoked with the Lord (the bigger oxen) while we learn what to do (the smaller animal)!

This book strengthened my faith in Jesus Christ. Great book.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although it is comfortable under the shade of the mango tree, I must be willing to leave the shade to learn what the Lord has in mind for me. As I’m willing to stretch myself and get myself out of my own comfort zone, I will find The Lord. I will find what the Lord sees in me.

An amazing story of faith, devotion, change and continual progression. I loved Elder Dube’s life lessons.

As a side note, I listened to the audiobook which is read by Elder Dube and is delightful.

[Marta Cleverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was really great. It has such a good mix of personal stories, quotes, and scripture. Dube is very eloquent and I loved hearing about his experiences.

Notes:

• Dube was brought up Catholic and he relates that to how it prepared him to become a member of the Church of Jesus Christ and his story is wonderful and powerful. He is grateful and was prepared to accept the gospel because of the love for Christ he learned when being Catholic.
• When we are reminded of our divine identity, we want to do good!
• We are children not creations
• Only in Christ Jesus!

• "Every individual and every family can trust Him. " • "Not all angels are from the other side of the veil. " • "We can always find comfort in the Lord’s way."
• "Help them look up to the Lord. "
• "Trees look up to the light and grow. "

[Laura Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really endjoyed the stories about his life and how he could relate them to how we can come unto Christ and grow to know and serve Him better.

[Mike · Rating 4 out of 5]

Edward Dube shares some of his experiences while in Africa that are very touching and inspirational.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book of humble testimony and truth. Elder Dube brings the scriptures and the gospel to life as he shares his conversion story and invites all to come unto Christ. He reminds us that we are children of God with great potential. As we seek to align our lives with His will, we find joy and growth. Here are some great quotes:

"'This book is a vivid reminder that each of us is a child of God with the divine potential to become like Him... external qualities such as race, wealth, and status do not control our eternal destiny. Rather, our destiny is determined by internal decisions, usually made one small choice at a time... The Savior's crowning aim is not just to cleanse us but to perfect us (Tad R. Callister, p. vii).'"

"I sincerely express my appreciation to all those who have crossed my path in this mortal journey of striving to see ourselves as God sees us and ultimately become like Him (p. xii)."

"Of course, we can't learn everything we need to know if we stay in the comfort of a tree's shade (p. 2)."

"My siblings and I worked side by side with Mother in the fields, in the heart of the sun. She took advantage of that time to teach us... 'Edward, never look back. Look ahead at what we still have to do!' She pointed to the field in front of us, which was still full of weeds (p. 4)."

"I believe that each of us has a personal 'mango tree'--a place that, for a time, is all we know. It might be a safe and happy place or a troubled and dangerous one. It might be a farm or an apartment complex, a town or a city, a school or a church. It might just be a state of mind. But at some point, each of us needs to be ready for the Lord to show us more: More than we think we know about our environment. More than we think we know about Him. More than we think we know about ourselves (p. 5)."

"Join me in this journey to learn of Him, walk in His covenant path, and submit joyfully to His will... My prayer is that we will all open our eyes to the Lord's goodness, love, and power. Beyond opening our eyes, I hope we will open our hearts and draw near to our Savior and Redeemer. As we do, He will expand our vision. He will teach us to see beyond the shade of the mango tree--to see what He and our Heavenly Father see in us (p. 6)."

"In my childhood, I learned to trust God as I listened to my mother pray. She prayed as though God was standing right there in our little hut. At times, I opened my eyes, just to see if He was there. Mother always prayed for each child in the family, mentioning specific challenges we faced and pleading with God to protect us from the evils of the world. Whenever I felt tempted to do something wrong, I would hear my mother's voice in my mind, pleading with God for my protection (p. 11)."

"When Mother and I came home with four donkeys... my siblings and I began to celebrate... But we heard our mother's voice above ours. 'Wait, wait, wait... We need to thank God for this.'... My mother had helped me open my eyes to His great power and infinite compassion, even for our little family (p. 14)."

"This is our course: learning of the Savior line upon line and progressing toward eternal life. If we are willing to follow this course, the Lord blesses us with guides to help us. One of my early guides was the Roman Catholic Church. My experiences in the Catholic Church helped me open my eyes to the Savior's love and power, contributing to the foundation I needed to live as His disciple (p. 16)."

"As I read, I was surprised to see that the letter was about me! Mother has a message for me, and she knew I would receive it if I read it aloud to my uncle. She wrote that she was concerned about my involvement in politics... Uncle Rafaeri knew that the best way to raise children is to help them see their potential (p. 23)."

"I learned to be unwaveringly honest, moral, and ethical, even in the midst of corruption (p. 24)."

"As I reflect on my life in the late 1970s, I consider it miraculous that I was protected and preserved. The Lord had a vision of my potential, and He shared that vision with people who loved me (p. 25)."

"Even though my parents had set a good example for me, the decision to follow the Savior had to be my own (p. 28)."

"Asking questions about our beliefs is fine if it leads us to inquire actively about the truth. But even as we ask questions, we should hold on to what we know and remain true to it (p. 31)."

"These words [3 Nephi 11:10-11, 14] flowed into me with a warmth that enlightened my mind. I felt close to the Lord Jesus Christ. I felt as thought I was among those He had retrieved from the human heap of despair. This knowledge and experience gave me a calm sense of worth. I was discovering the simple good news of Jesus Christ (p. 37)."

"On February 5, 1984, at the age of 21, I finally entered the Kwekwe chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When I did so, I immediately wanted to walk right back out. I was uncomfortable, feeling that I was in a servant relationship to most of those in attendance. But I stayed and sat down on the back row... As I listened, I began to feel that I could connect with these people. Their words brought comfort and peace to my mind. Suddenly I found myself on my feet. Yes, I was the fourth person to speak in the meeting. I said, 'I too am reading the Book of Mormon. I like it and I love Jesus Christ. Thank you.' Then I quickly sat down... For a while, I would continue to struggle with douts about whether I belonged at church... But I had learned... that we can always find comfort in the Lord's word (p. 38)."

"My doubts about myself began to fade one Sunday when all the children in the branch stood in front of the congregation and gave a special presentation. Those little children taught me something. They sang a song I had never heard before:
'I am a child of God, And he has sent me here...
I am a child of God, And so my needs are great...
I am a child of God, Rich blessings are in store (p. 40).'"

"The scriptures... teach that we are more than creations of God; they teach that we are the literal offspring of God our Father (p. 43)."

"God's children can become gods. What does this mean? I don't completely know. I do know that we have a divine destiny because of our divine parentage (p. 43)."

"Small, steady, incremental spiritual improvements are the steps the Lord would have us take. Preparing to walk guiltless before God is one of the primary purposes of mortality and the pursuit of a lifetime (p. 44)."

"After hearing 'I Am a Child of God' for the first time, I held my head high as I walked home from church. I sensed that I really did belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I knew God loved me, and I felt that He had a great work for me to do in His kingdom (p. 44)."

"Several months later... the branch president... asked me to become familiar with the sacrament prayers so I could administer the sacrament Sunday. I was overwhelmed and anxious. I read and reread the prayers that week, almost committing them to memory. I felt responsible, respectful, and aware that I would be praying on behalf of the whole branch... Since those early days, the ordinance of the sacrament has continued to bring deep meaning to my life (p. 47)."

"'As you seek the blessing of conversion, you can offer the Lord the gift of your broken, or repentant, heart and your contrite, or obedient, spirit. In reality, it is the gift of yourself--what you are and what you are becoming (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 49).'"

"The sacrament is a time of self-examination and repentance. It is a time to acknowledge our weakness and our need for the Lord to cleanse us and 'make [us] a new heart and a new spirit' (Ezekiel 18:31, p. 52)."

"Our experience with the sacrament can also lead to personal revelation (p. 53)."

"I love fast and testimony meetings. When I share my testimony, I give what I have. And as I strive to strengthen others, my testimony grows stronger... 'A testimony is to be found in the bearing of it... It is one thing to receive a witness from what you have read or what another has said... It is quite another to have the Spirit confirm to you in your bosom that what you have testified is true... As you give that which you have, there is a replacement, with increase (Boyd K. Packer)!' My first experience in a fast and testimony meeting was a dramatic turning point in my life (p. 54)."

"I knew... that I should share my testimony as a service to others... our simple words, if they come from our hearts and are guided by the Spirit, have power to change lives (p. 56)."

"'Declare whatsoever thing ye declare in my name, in solemnity of heart, in the spirit of meekness, in all things... insasumch as he do this the Holy Ghost shall be shed forth in bearing record unto all things whatsoever ye shall say (D&C 100:7-8, p. 57).'"

"My full-time mission started in Bindura... on April 1, 1986. There was no Missionary Training Center in South Africa at the time, so my initial training was 'on the job.' I was not able to go to the Johannesburg South Africa Temple, so I had not yet received the temple endowment. I was not even set apart until three weeks into my mission. But I was an ordained elder, and I had a testimony of the restored gospel and a burning desire to share it (p. 60)."

"When Elder Hall and I first prayed together, I said the prayer. I was surprised to see that he remained on his knees for what I thought was a long time, even after I had said 'amen.' I thought maybe I had failed to cover some important things in my prayer. But the next time, he said the prayer, and he did the same thing. He stayed on his knees after I thought the prayer was over... Finally... I asked him what he was doing... He did not respond immediately... Elder Hall said that at the end of each day, he reflected on what he had done... He asked for forgiveness for his shortcomings and expressed gratitude for the blessings he had received. Since that day, I have tried to follow (p. 60)."

"I was ready for the Lord to expand my vision (p. 63)."

"Some members who had been in the Church for a number of years had missed out on the rewarding opportunity to help new converts and people who were being taught by missionaries. Rather than embracing new and potential members and helping them learn the gospel of Jesus Christ, they seemed more interested in protecting areas of the chapel where they had sat over the years (p. 69)."

"'Edward, accept the Lord's will. You need to accept the things you cannot change and work hard to change those things you can change (p. 72).'"

"Service blesses the giver as well as the receiver (p. 73)."

"I worried that I wasn't ready to get married and support a family. It was like I was stuck in the shade of the mango tree again... Fortunately, my vision expanded as I received counsel from a prophet, a missionary, and a local Church leader, combined with promptings from the Holy Ghost. I learned that great blessings come when we accept the Lord's will and the Lord's timing (p. 76)."

"With this mention of 27-year-old men, President Benson had my attention! Then he asked, 'Just what are your priorities at this time in your life?' He suggested... prayer, study of the... scriptures, Church activity, dress and grooming, family relationships, moral cleanliness, temple marriage, academic and vocational goals, sharing the gospel, and community service (p. 78)."

"The Holy Ghost helped me understand (p. 79)."

"'Honorable marriage is more important than wealth, position, and status. As husband and wife, you can achieve your life's goals together. As you sacrifice for each other and your children, the Lord will bless you, and your commitment to the Lord and your service in His kingdom will be enhanced (Ezra Taft Benson, p. 79).'"

"We were sealed for time and all eternity on May 15, 1992 (p. 80)."

"Was it a coincidence that the counsel from the Lord's prophet, the good-natured pressure from a missionary, and the visit with my branch president came together at that time? No... The Lord really is in the details of our lives. We just need to look to see Him there (p. 81)."

"Naume and I were members of the restored Church of Jesus Christ, and we were determined to abandon cultural traditions that were not consistent with gospel truths (p. 85)."

"I heard a still, small voice urging me to exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, counseling me to guard against any traditions that might limit our family's progress on the covenant path, reminding me what God saw in me as a priesthood holder (p. 85)."

"Our most meaningful traditions should lead us to keep the Lord's commandments and honor sacred covenants (p. 86)."

"'This is not our home. Our home is in heaven. It is not up to you or anyone else, but it is up to God (p. 92).'"

"Sometimes the action of faith means that we stay (p. 93)."

"At first, I didn't realize that my Church leaders were expressing the will of the Lord when they advised us to stay in Harare. The Lord, who saw the big picture, knew that we needed to be in Harare so we could serve in the stake and so we could become the people He wanted us to become... Our quest should always be to learn the Lord's will and align ourselves with it (p. 98)."

"As we align ourselves with the Lord's will, we find that our life gains more meaning. Our motivations change. Rather than seeking compensation, we seek opportunities to make a difference in the lives of people in our family, at church, at work, and in the community (p. 99)."

"'President, I beg you, study the scriptures and handbooks every day (Jeffrey R. Holland, p. 101).'"

"'Know ye not that ye are in the hands of God? Know ye not that he hath all power (Mormon 5:23, p. 103)?'"

"Abel's choice to offer the firstlings, to contribute the very best, showed his love for God (p. 107)."

"The Lord has blessed us immensely, beyond our comprehension, as we have paid tithing (p. 108)."

"'Bear pure testimony of Jesus Christ and His doctrine, and issue a bold invitation to take righteous action (Russell M. Nelson, p. 109).'"

"'Help them look up to the Lord (Russell M. Nelson, p. 112).'"

"Each morning I will take five minutes to choose an attribute I will work on throughout the day. Each day during my labor I will take five minutes to review my chosen attribute and evaluate how I am doing. Each night before I retire to bed, I will take five minutes to review my chosen attribute and ask Heavenly Father for strength and courage to become like my Savior, Jesus Christ, by seeking to incorporate His attributes into my life. In my planning session each day, I will review with my companion the progress I am making and ask him or her to help me improve on these Christlike attributes. I will remember that only through the power of Jesus Christ and His Atonement can I achieve this goal and help others (p. 114)."

"'Trees reach up for the light and grow in the process. So do we as sons and daughters of heavenly parents. Facing upward provides a loftier perspective than facing right or facing left. Looking up in search of holiness builds strength and dignity as disciples of Deity (Russell M. Nelson, p. 115).'"

"'Edward, it is not about you! It is about me, the Lord (p. 119)!'"

"'Remember that this work is not yours and mine alone. It is the Lord's work, and when we are on the Lord's errand, we are entitled to the Lord's help. Remember that the Lord will shape the back to bear the burden placed upon it (Thomas S. Monson, p. 120).'"

"We don't need to compare ourselves against Him or against other people. We just need to trust Him, learn of Him, look to Him, follow Him, and come to Him. And He will help us along the way (p. 120)."

"Many Nigerians are innovative and confident, and they tend to speak more loudly than other people. We misjudged these characteristics as signs of aggression... Our family spent two rewarding, inspiring years in West Africa, and I spent most of that time serving in Nigeria... we grew to love the Nigerian people (p. 124)."

"If we allow His thoughts and ways to become ours, we 'shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace (Isaiah 55:12, p. 126).'"

"Betty... walked 21 kilometers each Sunday for Church meetings, often with a child on her back... Should could have thought, 'I can't understand what they are saying. There's no place for me there.' But she continued attending church... served diligently... and shared the gospel with their family and friends... leading to the creation of the Arcturus Mine Ward... her positive, faithful thoughts have shaped her destiny--and influenced the destiny of many others (p. 127)."

"My attendance at church mattered each week... weekly attendance was important for me personally (p. 129)."

"I was humbled by this assignment, and I was determined to live up to the expectations of my mission president and the Lord. I went into the living room where the three other missionaries in the apartment... were chatting with each other... I asked for their forgiveness... I further asked these great missionaries if they were willing to help me... With a simple letter, my mission president had reached out to me--one sheep, 860 km away from him--and had gathered me more securely in the Lord's fold (p. 132)."

"Over two decades later, I served as president of the Zimbabwe Harare Mission. Whenever I assigned a missionary to be a district leader, zone leader, or assistant to the president, I sent him a letter outlining his responsibilities and expressing my confidence in him (p. 134)."

"I asked him what he enjoyed at home. He said that he liked to play golf, so we scheduled a time for him to teach me how to play. This elder stayed on his mission and continued meeting with me... 'I decided to stay not for myself, but for my children and grandchildren (p. 136).'"

"At first, I had failed to see him as the Lord saw him. I am thankful for the persistence and compassion of the stake president (p. 139)."

"'Nephi made God his partner... Because God does not fail, it was icumbent upon Nephi to get the plates or lay down his life in the attempt (Bruce R. McConkie, p. 144).'"

"In a normal yoking, the load is distributed equally. When we are yoked with Jesus Christ, He bears the heaviness... He allows us to share in the joy of the labor (p. 149)."

"He continues to extend His invitation to all... take His yoke... learn of Him (p. 150)."

"With the words 'come unto me,' Jesus Christ expresses His desire to relieve us from pain, sadness, and oppression... The Savior invites us to come directly to Him... He sends His plea to all people throughout the world (p. 150)."

"He is always there beside me if I will yield my life to Him (p. 151)."

"We learn of Him as we serve (p. 151)."

[Mario Durrant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simple, easy to understand and yet incredibly profound. The book gradually builds to the epilogue which is worth reading the whole book for.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved listening to the author’s voice on the audiobook. It felt like you were sitting in his home, listening to his story.

[Teri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed listening to this on audiobook. I find it very cute how Elder Dube mispronounces certain words, such as "Seh-eed" for "said". :)

This is basically an autobiography by Dube, but focusing on how he has come to grow in his faith in Christ, his understanding of Christ's character and gospel, and how that led him to being baptized in to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

It is touching and inspiring to 'walk alongside him' in his spiritual journey and learn from the lessons he's learned. (if one so chooses)

I would not say this is a book to run out and get at all cost. But if you have the time and you wish to read/listen to an uplifting book, then this is good book to read/listen to.

Example of stories I liked reading in this book:

"The apostle Paul said: '...this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.' Paul is not the only gospel teacher who has shed this vision of our potential. I also learned it from my mother.

"In the introduction of this book I tell the story of my mother teaching me to work in our field. 'Never look back,' she said, 'look ahead and what we still have to do.' This lesson has remained with me ever since the day mother shared it. Whether she knew it or not, she was preparing me to do more than work diligently in our field. She was preparing me to embrace the restored gospel of Jesus Christ and serve in His Church. She was preparing me to make, and keep, sacred covenants. Like Paul, she was reaching forth unto those things which are before. Throughout her life she would continue teaching me to reach forth and press toward the mark.

"When I was 7 years old, my maternal grandmother died. I loved her so much, and I was heartbroken when she was no longer in our home. I was especially sad in the mornings when I sat in our kitchen. I remembered the times when grandmother cooked porridge with peanut butter for me before I went to school. One of those mornings my mother recognized my sense of loss. She felt devastated herself. The death of her dear mother, was more heartbreaking for her than it was for anyone else. But even in her sorrow she ceased the opportunity to teach me and important lesson. She stopped what she was doing, sat next to me, looked into my eyes and said: 'This is not our home. Our home is in heaven.' My mother's words comforted me and inspired my young and tender heart. They would comfort and inspire me about 28 years later when I watched helplessly as she suffered from cancer.

"For much of the time mother battled cancer she lived with my family and me. One night I hear her sobbing in her bedroom. The pain was intense, even after taking the last daily dose of morphine only 2 hours earlier. I entered the room, and sobbed with her. I prayed out loud for her to receive instant relief from her pain, and then she did the same thing she had done in the field, and in the kitchen. She stopped and taught me a lesson. I'll never forget her face at that moment, frail, stricken, and full of pain, gazing with pity on her sorrowing son. She smiled through her tears, looked up directly into my eyes and said: 'It is not up to you, or anyone else, but it is up to God whether this pain will go away or not.' I sat up quietly; she too sat up quietly. The scene remembers vivid in my mind. That night, through my mother, the Lord taught me a lesson that will stay with me forever. As my mother expressed the acceptance of God's will, I remembered the risen the Lord Jesus Christ suffered in the Garden of Gethsemane and on Golgotha. He said, 'Behold, I have given unto you my gospel and this is the gospel which I have given unto you, that I came into the world to the will of my Father, because my Father sent me.' My mother, even in her severe pain reached out to me, showed me how to accept God's will and help me prepare to serve in the Lord's kingdom, under any circumstance. My testimony grew stronger as I came to understand more deeply my loving Savior's experience with the bitter cup that terrible night in Gethsemane, and later on the cross. His plaintiff plea and His submission to His Father established our way to salvation and set the example for us to follow: 'Father, if Thou be willing, remove this cup from me; nevertheless, not my will but Thine be done.'

"I was not the only one blessed by my mother's influence in the final days of her life. On October 2, 1997, my mother was admitted to Parirenyatwa hospital in Arare, Zimbabwe. I watched her smile bravely in other uplifting ways to people who visited her. The nurses said she was a delight to serve because of her positive attitude. She always asked visitors to pray by her hospital bed. Even though she was frail and consumed with pain and grief, she continued to find opportunities to teach and testify of the Lord Jesus Christ. My brother, Clement, was visiting mother in the hospital one day when he told her that he had to leave for an important business meeting. He had a prestigious job with a large retail food chain in Zimbabwe. She stopped him with this question: 'Clement, are you still planning to be a pastor?' Seeing his hesitation, she reminded him that from the time he was very young he had always wanted to be a pastor. She urged him not to let the worldly things take that desire away from him. She then recited Matthew 6:33 from memory: 'But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.' Following mother's death-bed counsel, Clement gave up his job and commenced an intense course of training to become a pastor in the Methodist Church of Zimbabwe, the church she had joined late in her life. He later earned a PhD in New Testament studied, and served as Dean of the United Theological Institute of Zimbabwe.

"On the evening of October 10, 1997, I offered a prayer by my mother's bedside, along with Naume, Clement and Clement's wife, Lilian. For the first time since mother began her battle with cancer, I asked Heavenly Father to let her pass from this life if it was His will. I immediately felt peace. I knew that mother was going to die that night, but I did not tell anyone. This was a sacred experience for me. The Savior's words to His apostles just before His death sank deep in my soul: 'Let not your heart be troubled, if ye believe in God, believe also in me, in my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you; I go to prepare a place for you.' The next morning we went to the hospital. one of the nurses met us and confirmed what I had known since the night before: mother had passed away. At this time, my only sister, Teresa, was also in the hospital. She was suffering from a complication connected with the birth of her daughter Mimbai, six months earlier. Teresa died a week after mother passed away, leaving a husband and three children, Mimbai, John and Constance without a wife and mother in their home. If it were not for my mother's lessons, these two losses would have been devastating for me. Because I believed what she had taught me about looking ahead to our home in heaven and accepting God's will, I was at peace, even though I was deeply saddened. Her teachings combined with my understanding of the eternal nature of the family, comforted me. At the end of her life my mother followed the example of our Master, our Savior Jesus Christ, who looked up to His Father in every way, even when His suffering was unrelenting, even when His anguish increased, with more pressure, more torture and more agony. In His intercessory prayer He proclaimed, 'I have glorified Thee on the earth, I have finished the work which Thou gavest me to do.' On the cross He cried out with a loud voice saying, 'Father, it is finished. Thy will is done.'" (Beyond the Shade of the Mango Tree by Edward Dube, Chapter 13)

[NaDell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed learning more about Elder Edward Dube's conversion and life story and the lessons he learned as he ventured 'beyond the shade of the mango tree' to see for himself the truths his mother taught him.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

“As we [draw near to our Savior], He will expand our vision. He will teach us to see beyond the shade of the mango tree, to see what He and our Heavenly Father see in us.”

This book is a collection of Elder Dube’s stories about growing up on a rural farm in Zimbabwe, his foundations of faith, his experiences in gaining a testimony of Jesus Christ and His gospel, and his subsequent church service. The best part of the book for me was witnessing his meekness, humility, and faith. It shines throughout his stories, and I love that he reads his own audiobook so you can hear his conviction in his voice. He is a humble seeker of truth who courageously acts on promptings and correction. I am grateful for his example and encouragement to leave the comfortable shade of the mango tree to allow God to expand my perspective and capabilities.

-“The scriptures teach that with God all things are possible. If we choose to accept this statement at face value, we begin to see new vistas of possibilities never before dreamed of. This truth converts our thinking from focusing on mortal limitations to focusing on divine possibilities.” Tad Callister
-“A testimony is to be found in the bearing of it. It is one thing to receive a witness from what you have read or what another has said, and that is a necessary beginning. It is quite another to have the Spirit confirm to you in your bosom that what you have testified is true. As you give that which you have, there is a replacement with increase.”
-His answer after feeling overcome by his inadequacies surrounding his new calling: “Edward, it is not about you. It is about me, the Lord.” In a similar vein, from President Monson: “Remember that this work is not yours and mine alone. It is the Lord’s work and when we are on the Lord’s errand, we are entitled to the Lord’s help.”

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

An absolutely beautiful autobiography from Elder Dube about his life growing up and into his faithful service to God. He shares touching stories and important pieces of advice from the many wonderful people who helped to shape him.

One story that touched me was from when Edward was a teenager. His mother was concern about his involvement with politically radical groups. As with most teenagers he wouldn't hear his mother's advice, so she wisely sent him on a errand to take an important letter to his uncle several cities away. After a long journey he arrived and delivered the letter only to find out that his uncle was illiterate. So Edward opened the letter and read it out loud to his uncle. He heard his mother pour her heart out to her bother, aching and fearing for her son's safety and future. Edward was humbled and ended up spending some time with his uncle, learning how to be a leader and example to his younger relatives.

Edward also shares stories of seeing God's hand lead him through inspired leaders. He, in turn, becomes a leader and testifies to the God given words and impressions which allowed him to lead others.

I loved the "To Become" challenge he created as mission president. Choose an attribute of Christ's each morning that you want to improve on, review it at least once during the day, then check in with your companion at night to see how you improved. Involve God in each step with prayer and resolve to keep improving each day, no matter how the last day went.

Elder Dube's faith, dedication, and love is clear and unfailing. I loved it, I want to be like him!

[Lora · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am only rating this three stars because of my personal expectations in choosing this book. The author’s starting point and personal struggles and background were why I wanted to read this book. Mostly that information was “in between the lines”. This book really is a beautiful tome about being Christian and finding your purpose.

“We can change our destiny by changing our way of thinking. This takes work, but we can do it…the danger is that shallow thinking takes much less effort. We must work vigorously to replace inferior thoughts with quality thoughts…
1. What is the quality of my thinking?

2. Am I skilled at analyzing problems?

3. Am I concentrating on the things I need to concentrate on, or am I easily distracted?

4. Am I a deep thinker?

5. How disciplined am I in controlling my thoughts?

6. What steps do I need to take to improve my way of thinking?”

I could do relate to his description of listening to his mother pray and I am thankful for that daily. “I no longer opened my eyes when Mother prayed, trying to see if God was there. I knew He was there. I couldn't see Him, but I didn't have to. My mother had helped me open my eyes to His great power and infinite compassion, even for our little family.”

“We can succeed in His work only as we are determined to be His disciples, only as we remember that this work is not about us but about Him, only as we “trust in the Lord with all [our] heart” and “lean not unto [our] own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). We don't need to compare ourselves against Him or against other people. We just need to trust Him, learn of Him, look to Him, follow Him, and come to Him. And He will help us along the way.”

[Arielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a humble and honest narrative. Elder Edward Dube shares how from humble Zimbabwe origins he has been stretched and challenged to leave the “comfortable shade of the mango tree” to become so much more than he could imagine. This narrative is a tribute to his mother whose lessons began under the mango tree to several stretching events where the Lord has clearly been molding him into a leader.

“The Savior has helped me to move beyond the shade of the mango tree—beyond the boy I once was, beyond the man I thought I would become, and even beyond…. As we strive to come unto Him, learn of Him, and take His yoke upon ourselves, we begin to see Him as He really is. And He begins to teach us who we really are: God’s divine children with a divine destiny.”

I would recommend listening to the audiobook since the narrator is the author himself. Word of warning, the chapters are a little choppy with the transitions. Perhaps each chapter was meant to be a mini talk? But the perspective from another culture and the story of his spiritual growth is inspiring.

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

With short personal stories, quotations from scripture, and unaffected vulnerability the author takes the reader into the scenes of his childhood, adolescence, and adulthood in the country now known as Zimbabwe.

He discusses what his mother taught him under the shade of a mango tree, that life’s greatest lessons would be found by going beyond what they knew, beyond the shade of the mango tree.

The stories of his mistakes, his fears, and his willingness to learn and grow were inspiring. I don’t know how I missed this title. It is not knew. But wow.

Read this for a first-hand perspective of an African-born man intent on seeking the will of God and growing in huge ways by small and simple things.

Truly inspiring and loving.

[Shannon Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is my favorite book of 2021! I highly recommend everyone read this book. If your going to read 1 book this year, let it be this one!

His faith, humility, and natural ability to teach gospel principles is inspiring. He is a great story teller and I loved listening to him. I wish I could have read this book years earlier! I am inspired by his obedience and love of the Lord. I learned a lot from this book and the Spirit whispered ways I can apply things I learned into my own life. I am so grateful he took the time to write this book and share it with the world. I love books that teach me and speak to my soul!

[Patricia L .Jex · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this read by the author and loved hearing him tell his story in his own voice. It adds so much to the experience as he tells of his life in Africa and his conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ. His story is both inspiring and encouraging and lessons can be applied to anyone facing change and challenges. Elder Dube's cheerful nature comes through in a way that uplifts and encourages while it teaches that the Lord is aware of us as individuals and will support us as we follow his direction, even when it doesn't seem to make sense. I loved the story of how he put 1000 sheets of stationary to use when his assignment changed.

[Orion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listened to the audiobook version - read by the author, which I always love - especially with his great accept, the stories really come to life. The theme of the book has given me some great subject matter to ponder, and I’m grateful to see his life and mission seen through some great experiences. He also provides a lot of humble elements, where he made mistakes, faced challenges with some errors mixed in, and that was comforting to hear. He also speaks highly of other faiths; complimenting what they have taught about his own journey. Love it!

[Alli · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this, largely because I listened to it, and his voice was just so moving to me. His stories and reflections were inspiring and uplifting, and he had great humility in how he approached culture, the religion of his youth, his life choices, etc. He has my respect—being a leader in Zimbabwe during the economic recession would have been turbulent to say the least, and I loved reading his reflections from that time the most. Definitely the kind of book to pick up when your faith is slow and you need a pick-me-up.

[Shellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolutely delightful memoir. He teaches some very important, yet basic principles. His unique point of you offers such a refreshing and simple view of how to be a good and worthy child of God. His stories are so sweetly and lovingly told. It’s very encouraging to want to be more like him.

Plus he reads it, and I strongly suggest you listen to this one. His very good English, which is also so obviously difficult for him, adds to the superb strength of his mind and heart. You can’t help but love him more for being able to do this

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an enjoyable and inspiring book in which readers follow Elder Dube’s life and lessons learned therein from a young age as he was taught profound truths from his faithful Catholic mother to his later years as he exercised faith in his callings of church service. With his background, his experiences come from a perspective unique to him and helped me see some of the prophetic counsel that he discusses in a new light. I look forward to sharing this book with my son who is currently serving a mission in the West Africa area.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beyond the Shade of the Mango Tree: Reflections on What God Sees in Us by Edward Dube is the story of Edward Dube’s life and conversation to the Church. My sister sent me the book and thought I would enjoy it. Elder Dube was her son’s mission president. I really liked it. I found he experiences inspirational and his life amazing. He had some excellent experiences as a new leader in the Church, which would help any leader today. I do recommend this book.

[Lisa Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully inspiring book of the life and teachings of Edward Dube, who grew up in rural Zimbabwe (then Southern Rhodesia), against the backdrop of civil war. He tells his story about life in Africa, searching for God, and not letting life pass you by as you sit in the shade of the mango tree. He also tells how he found and joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Later-day Saints.

I found the story lovely and so inspiring, and I loved that the audiobook was read by the author.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed learning about Elder Edward Dube's life, a General Authority in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. He tells about his childhood, his conversion, his mission for the church, married life, children, jobs, and callings in the church. He talks about lessons learned, and wonderful people he has met in his life. I liked that he included pictures. It's always nice to put a face to the name.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful biography of the life of Elder Edward Dube - his life and experiences that led him to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was a wonderful testimony and I truly appreciated his truthfulness of the errors he made, even after joining the Church. He had many miracles in his life but it wasn't always easy for him. I appreciate knowing his story and effort he made to get where he is today. Wonderful, spiritual and very uplifting.

[Lindsay · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sweet, moving testimony and conversion story from Elder Dube. I learned I have to step outside my own comfort zone in order to deepen my understanding and grow the way the Lord needs me to grow. I also was reminded after I listened to his stories growing up in Africa that I take many things for granted. Please listen to the audiobook; his accent is amazing.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to this book and I loved hearing the author's voice. Somehow it made his declarations and lessons seem that much more real. Throughout the book he shared his own conversion and life lessons. I loved getting a peak into life in Africa and how customs and other beliefs played a part of his life.