July 21, 2010

The talk I read tonight was from the last Priesthood session by Thomas S. Monson called Preparation Brings Blessings. He basically went through the expected standards of the Church, found in the Strength of Youth pamphlet. The standards that I highlighted tonight had to do with friends, our language, what we put into our heads, and music.

I have definitely found this to be true: "When you share common values with your friends, you can strengthen and encourage each other." I have been blessed, I feel, throughout my life to be surrounded by friends who love God, love the gospel and are striving their best to live it. I know I have been greatly shaped and strengthened by the positive influence of my friends.

Language is also very important to me. I am consistently mindful of the words I use because I do believe that they "tell much about the image I choose to portray" and I want that image to be of a positive, faithful disciple of Christ.

I also have a strong testimony of the importance of seeing after anything "virtuous, lovely, or of good report, or praiseworthy." I really do try to fill my mind with that which is uplifting and inspiring because I know it does make an impression on me.

I really liked what he said about music. I have usually considered only the lyrics to be the deciding factor, but he points out that also the "tempo, beat and intensity can dull [our] spiritual sensitivity as well."

Most of all I liked the reminder that "happiness comes from living the way the Lord wants [me] to live and from service to God and others." I loved this quote: "Spiritual strength frequently comes through selfless service." That's the kind of service I want to give more and that I want to help my children experience throughout their youth. I am so grateful for the standards of the gospel. I feel they have helped me to become a beautiful, strong person with a lot to offer others.