YOUTH MAGAZINE OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

THE

NOVEMBER 2013

General Conference is for you, pp. 2–23, 49 } Plus, Support for FHE OBJECT Skateboarding GOSSIP ABOUT Sunday Lessons: LESSON: AND PERSONAL PAST SINS, p. 44 Super Teens DIZZY IN THE STRENGTH, p. 42 on the Job,

DARK, p. 30 p. 34

NEW ERA SEPTEMBER 2008 4 THE MONTHLY YOUTH MAGAZINE OF The First Presidency: Thomas S. Monson, Henry B. Eyring, Dieter F. Uchtdorf THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles: November 2013 • Volume 43 • Number 11 Boyd K. Packer, L. Tom Perry, Russell M. Nelson, Dallin H. Oaks, M. Russell Ballard, Richard G. Scott, Robert D. Hales, Jeffrey R. Holland, David A. Bednar, Quentin L. Cook, D. Todd Christofferson, Neil L. Andersen € IN EVERY ISSUE Editor: Craig A. Cardon Advisers: Jose L. Alonso, Mervyn B. Arnold, Shayne M. Bowen, Stanley G. Ellis, Christoffel INSTANT MESSAGES Golden Jr. 41 MORMONAD 46 Called to Share Mile Mondays; a first temple trip; Managing Director: David T. Warner finding a wallet in France. Director of Operations: Vincent A. Vaughn Director of Church Magazines: Allan R. 43 THE EXTRA SMILE Loyborg 48 TO THE POINT Business Manager: Garff Cannon Ending a friendship; soul mates. Managing Editor: Brittany Beattie 44 QUESTIONS & ANSWERS Assistant Managing Editor: Joshua J. Perkey “I am repenting of a sin, but other Publications Assistant: Sally Johnson Odekirk people gossip about me. It hurts a 49 CONFERENCE POSTER Writing and Editing: Susan Barrett, Ryan Carr, lot. What do I do?” The Companionship of the David Dickson, David A. Edwards, Matthew D. Flitton, Holy Ghost Mindy Raye Friedman, Lori Fuller, Garrett H. Garff, Jennifer Grace Jones, Michael R. Morris, Richard M. Elder Adrián Ochoa Romney, Paul VanDenBerghe Editorial Intern: Rachel Nielsen Managing Art Director: J. Scott Knudsen € FEATURES Art Director: K. Nicole Walkenhorst Design: Jeanette Andrews, Fay P. Andrus, Nate Gines 20 Feet Down Super Teens on the Job* Intellectual Property Coordinator: 24 34 Collette Nebeker Aune How does a home survive a Need a job? These youth talk Production Manager: Jane Ann Peters category-5 hurricane? about how they found paid work Prepress: Joshua Dennis doing things they liked that needed Printing Director: Craig K. Sedgwick to be done. Distribution Director: Stephen R. Christiansen 26 Gaining a Testimony— Alaskan Experiences © 2013 by Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All Thinking Several Moves rights reserved. The New Era (ISSN 0164-5285) Youth in Alaska talk about how to 38 is published monthly by The Church of Jesus Christ of gain and maintain a testimony. Ahead Latter-day Saints, 50 E. North Temple St., Salt Lake A world chess champion talks about City, UT 84150-0024, USA. Periodicals Postage Paid how to plan for the future. at Salt Lake City, Utah. 30 Dizzy in the Dark To subscribe: Discover a family home evening By phone: Call 1-800-537-5971 to order using activity that includes a blindfold 42 Skating with the Spirit Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Express. and an iron rod. A skateboarder talks about how he Online: Go to store.lds.org. was able to keep his standards high By mail: Send $8 U.S. check or money order to while most of his friends slid down. Distribution Services, P.O. Box 26368, Salt Lake City, 32 Kuha‘o’s Gift UT 84126-0368, USA. Though blind, this young man from To change address: Hawaii uses his talent to help others * Check out this article for support for this Send old and new address information to: see the light of the gospel. month’s Sunday lesson theme. Distribution Services P.O. Box 26368 Salt Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. Please allow 60 days for changes to take effect.

youth Magazine of t he ChurC h of Jesus Christ of Latter-day s aints The New Era can be found on the Internet at newera.lds.org. THE Cover: General conference is for you, see pp. 2–23, 49. Copyright information: Text and visual material in NovEmbEr the New Era may be copied for incidental, noncom- 2013 mercial church or home use. Visual material may not be copied if restrictions are indicated in the credit line with Cover photograph: Matthew Reier the artwork. Copyright questions should be addressed to Intellectual Property Office, 50 E. North Temple St., Salt Lake City, UT 84150, USA; email cor-intellectual- property@​ldschurch​.org. To submit manuscripts or art: POSTMASTER: Send all UAA to CFS (see DMM Online: Go to newera.lds.org and 707.4.12.5). NON-POSTAL AND MILITARY click “Submit Your Work.” FACILITIES: Send address corrections to Distribution General Email: [email protected] Conference Mail: New Era Editorial, 50 E. North Temple St., Services, Church Magazines, P.O. Box 26368, Salt is for you, pp. 2–23, 49 } Plus, Support for FHE ObjECt skateboarding GOssip abouT Sunday Lessons: Rm. 2420, Salt Lake City, UT 84150-0024, USA. For Lake City, UT 84126-0368, USA. LEssOn: aND PErSoNaL PaST SiNS, p. 44 Super Teens Dizzy iN THE STrENGTH, p. 42 on the Job, return, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Dark, p. 30 p. 34

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New Era General Conference is for you

2 Enduring and Serving 6 Apostles Speak to Us 21 Conference Cards President Thomas S. Monson Messages from members of the Four cards with inspiring messages Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. you can cut out for your locker, God will not forsake us; grow in share online, or print for a lesson. strength; serve by home teaching. 12 Hastening the Work of Finding Happiness Salvation 23 Learning from Conference 4 You can help in the work of Resources to help you get more out President Henry B. Eyring salvation. of conference. Happiness through God’s plan; family life; priesthood service. 14 Answers to My Questions Church leaders answer questions 5 Come and Find Peace in their conference addresses. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Doubt and faith; join with the Saints 18 Words to Live By in the Church; peace through the Teachings and counsel from Atonement of Jesus Christ. Church leaders.

November 2013 1 General Conference is for you

ENDURING AND SERVING Never Forsaken by God the same way, have endured, and then “When the pathway of life takes a cruel have overcome. turn, there is the temptation to ask the “The history of the Church . . . is replete question ‘Why me?’ At times there appears with the experiences of those who have to be no light at the end of the tunnel. . . . struggled and yet who have remained stead- President We feel abandoned, heartbroken, alone. . . . fast and of good cheer. The reason? They Thomas S. Monson We become impatient for a solution to our have made the gospel of Jesus Christ the problems, forgetting that frequently the center of their lives. This is what will pull heavenly virtue of patience is required. us through whatever comes our way. We “The difficulties which come to us present will still experience difficult challenges, but VIDEOS AND us with the real test of our ability to endure. we will be able to face them, to meet them QUOTES A fundamental question remains to be head on, and to emerge victorious. Share designed quotes and answered by each of us: Shall I falter, or “From the bed of pain, from the pillow short video highlights from President Monson’s conference shall I finish? . . . wet with tears, we are lifted heavenward by addresses at lds.org/go/1131, “Whenever we are inclined to feel bur- that divine assurance and precious promise: lds.org/go/1132, lds.org/ dened down with the blows of life, let ‘I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee’ ( Joshua go/1133, lds.org/go/1134, and lds.org/go/1135. us remember that others have passed 1:5). Such comfort is priceless.”

2 New Era “Your Heavenly Father loves you—each of True Shepherds in Home Teaching you. That love never changes. It is not influ- “Home teaching is more than a mechani- enced by your appearance, by your posses- cal visit once per month. Ours is the respon- sions, or by the amount of money you have sibility to teach, to inspire, to motivate, and in your bank account. It is not changed by where we visit those who are not active, to your talents and abilities. It is simply there. bring to activity and to eventual exaltation It is there for you when you are sad or the sons and daughters of God. . . . happy, discouraged or hopeful. God’s love “If any of you has slipped into compla- is there for you whether or not you feel you cency concerning your home teaching deserve love. It is simply always there.” visits, may I say that there is no time like the present to rededicate yourself to ful- Growing Stronger filling your home teaching duties. Decide “Our Heavenly Father, who gives us so now to make whatever effort is necessary to much to delight in, also knows that we learn reach those for whom you have been given and grow and become stronger as we face responsibility. . . . and survive the trials through which we “Brethren, our efforts in home teaching must pass. We know that there are times are ongoing. The work will never be con- when we will experience heartbreaking cluded until our Lord and Master says, ‘It is sorrow, when we will grieve, and when we enough.’ There are lives to brighten. There may be tested to our limits. However, such are hearts to touch. There are souls to save. difficulties allow us to change for the better, Ours is the sacred privilege to brighten, to to rebuild our lives in the way our Heavenly touch, and to save those precious souls Father teaches us, and to become something entrusted to our care. We should do so faith- different from what we were—better than fully and with hearts filled with gladness. “Conference always reaf- we were, more understanding than we were, “. . . I turn to one particular example to more empathetic than we were, with stron- describe the type of home teachers we firms to me that we have ger testimonies than we had before. should be. There is one Teacher whose life living prophets. I espe- “This should be our purpose—to perse- overshadows all others. He taught of life cially enjoyed President vere and endure, yes, but also to become and death, of duty and destiny. He lived Monson’s testimony that more spiritually refined as we make our way not to be served but to serve, not to receive the Lord is always with through sunshine and sorrow. Were it not but to give, not to save His life but to sacri- us, through the good for challenges to overcome and problems fice it for others. He described a love more times and the bad times. to solve, we would remain much as we are, beautiful than lust, a poverty richer than He won’t desert us. It was with little or no progress toward our goal of treasure. . . . exactly what I needed to eternal life.” “I speak of the Master Teacher, even Jesus “As we seek our Heavenly Father through Christ. . . . With Him as our unfailing guide hear at this time in my life, fervent, sincere prayer and earnest, dedicated and exemplar, we shall qualify for His and I’ll always be grateful scripture study, our testimonies will become divine help in our home teaching. . . . We for it.” strong and deeply rooted. We will know of will become true shepherds.” Abbie W. , 17, Arizona, USA God’s love for us. We will understand that we do not ever walk alone. I promise you that you will one day stand aside and look at your difficult times, and you will realize that

PHOTOGRAPHS BY CHURCH PUBLISHING SERVICES He was always there beside you.”

November 2013 3 It applies to all relationships regardless of circumstances: . . . “‘Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. “‘And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself’ [see Matthew 22:35–40].”

Divine Help through Trials “Heavenly Father has perfect foresight, knows each of us, and knows our future. He knows what difficulties we will pass through. He sent His Son to suffer so that He would know how to succor us in all our trials. “We know that Heavenly Father has spirit children in this world who sometimes choose sin and great unhappiness. That is why He sent His Firstborn to be our Redeemer, the greatest act of love in all creation. That is why we must expect that it will take the help of God and time to polish us for eternal life, to live with our Father.”

Serving as Priesthood Men “All of us are blessed with responsibility for others. To hold the priesthood of God is to be held responsible by God for the eternal lives of His children. That is real, FINDING that is wonderful, and at times that can feel overwhelming. . . . “You . . . can have at least three assur- HAPPINESS ances. First, the Lord will give you, if you The Only Plan of Happiness ask, the feelings of compassion He feels “Heavenly Father has made each of us for those in need. Second, He will provide unique. No two of us have exactly the same others . . . to join with you in your service. President experiences. No two families are alike. . . . And third, the Lord . . . will more than rec- Henry B. Eyring Yet a loving Heavenly Father has set the same ompense all who join in giving help to those First Counselor in the First Presidency path to happiness for all of His children. in need. . . . Whatever our personal characteristics or “You cannot know all your quorum mem- whatever will be our experiences, there is but bers perfectly well, but God does. . . . one plan of happiness. That plan is to follow “You young men cannot know what acts all the commandments of God.” of priesthood service the Lord is preparing VIDEOS AND QUOTES you to give. But the greater challenge for Share designed quotes and short Happy Family Life every priesthood holder is to give spiritual video highlights from President “There is one overarching commandment help. All of us have that charge. It comes Eyring’s conference addresses at lds.org/go/1136 and that will help us to meet the challenges with being a member of a quorum. It comes lds.org/go/1137. and lead to the heart of a happy family life. with being a member of a family.”

4 New Era General Conference is for you

in the sometimes sandy soil of doubt and uncertainty. . . . “. . . Please, first doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith. We must never allow doubt to hold us prisoner and keep us from the divine love, peace, and gifts that come through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. . . . “. . . Regardless of your circumstances, your personal history, or the strength of your testimony, there is room for you in this Church. Come, join with us!”

Stand Up “Our destiny is not determined by the number of times we stumble but by the num- ber of times we rise up, dust ourselves off, and move forward. . . . “. . . True repentance is about transfor- mation, not torture or torment. Yes, heartfelt regret and true remorse for disobedience are often painful and very important steps in the sacred process of repentance. But when guilt leads to self-loathing or prevents us from rising up again, it is impeding rather than promoting our repentance. . . . COME AND “When we make mistakes, when we sin and fall, let us think of what it means to truly repent. It means a turning of the heart and FIND PEACE will to God and giving up sin. . . . To Those Who Doubt “We acknowledge that your path will at “I suppose the Church would be perfect times be difficult. But I give you this promise only if it were run by perfect beings. God in the name of the Lord: rise up and follow President is perfect, and His doctrine is pure. But He in the footsteps of our Redeemer and Savior, Dieter F. Uchtdorf works through us—His imperfect children— and one day you will look back and be filled Second Counselor in the First Presidency and imperfect people make mistakes. . . . with eternal gratitude that you chose to trust “It is unfortunate that some have stumbled the Atonement and its power to lift you up because of mistakes made by men. But in and give you strength. spite of this, the eternal truth of the restored “. . . No matter how many times you have VIDEOS AND gospel found in The Church of Jesus Christ of slipped or fallen, rise up! Your destiny is a QUOTES Latter-day Saints is not tarnished, diminished, glorious one! Stand tall and walk in the light Share designed quotes and short or destroyed. . . . of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ! You video highlights from President “It’s natural to have questions. . . . One are stronger than you realize. You are more Uchtdorf’s conference addresses at lds.​org/​go/​1138 and of the purposes of the Church is to nur- capable than you can imagine. You can lds.​org/​go/​1139. ture and cultivate the seed of faith—even do it now!”

November 2013 5 APOSTLES SPEAK TO US

THE KEY TO THE DOCTRINES AND SPIRITUAL PROTECTION PRINCIPLES CONTAINED IN “When I think of the future, I am overwhelmed with THE ARTICLES OF FAITH feelings of positive optimism. . . . “The scriptures guide us to a standard of truth by “The scriptures hold the keys to spiritual protection. which we can judge the knowledge we are receiv- They contain the doctrine and laws and ordinances ing, whether it be true or false. True doctrine comes that will bring each child of God to a testimony of Jesus Christ as the from God, the source and foundation of all truths. The teachings Savior and Redeemer. . . . and concepts of true doctrine are found in the gospel of our Lord “Make scripture reading a part of your regular routine, and the and Savior. False teachings come from Satan, the father of all lies. blessings will follow. There is in the scriptures a voice of warning, but His desire is to pervert, change, and alter revealed truths. He wants there is also great nourishment. to deceive us so some of us will lose our way along the journey back “If the language of the scriptures at first seems strange to you, keep to our heavenly home. reading. Soon you will come to recognize the beauty and power found “The scriptures teach us how to avoid false teachings. For exam- on those pages. . . . ple, [see] 2 Timothy 3:16–17. . . . “The gospel teaches us to be happy, to have faith rather than fear, “. . . Use your bright minds to study and learn the Articles of Faith to find hope and overcome despair, to leave darkness and turn toward and the doctrines they teach. They are among the most important the light of the everlasting gospel. and certainly the most concise statements of doctrine in the Church. “Paul and others warned about the trials of our time and the If you will use them as a guide to direct your studies of the gospel of days yet to come. But peace can be settled in the heart of each who Jesus Christ, you will find yourself prepared to declare your witness turns to the scriptures and unlocks the promises of protection and of the restored truth to the world. You will be able to declare in redemption that are taught therein. We invite all to turn to the Savior simple, straightforward, and profound ways the core beliefs you hold Jesus Christ, to His teachings as found in the Old Testament, the New dear as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Testament, the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the “I add my testimony to the truthfulness of the thirteen Pearl of Great Price.” Articles of Faith.” President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

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“It was comforting to be reminded that no mat- ter what, I can build my testimony and obey Christ. It doesn’t matter what changes in life—Christ­ will not change and will not leave us. We just have to decide to follow Him. That is the one choice that will bring eternal happiness.” Jessica T., 18, California, USA

DECISIONS FOR ETERNITY NO OTHER GODS “We can change our behavior. Our very desires “The emphasis we place on the law of chastity is can change. How? There is only one way. True explained by our understanding of the purpose of our change—permanent change—can come only procreative powers in the accomplishment of God’s through the healing, cleansing, and enabling plan. Outside the bonds of marriage between a man power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. He loves and a woman, all uses of our procreative powers are to you—each of you! He allows you to access His power as you keep one degree or another sinful and contrary to God’s plan for the exalta- His commandments, eagerly, earnestly, and exactly. It is that simple tion of His children. . . . and certain. The gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of change! . . . “There are many political and social pressures for legal and policy “While we are to emulate our Savior’s kindness and compas- changes to establish behaviors contrary to God’s decrees about sexual sion, while we are to value the rights and feelings of all of God’s morality and contrary to the eternal nature and purposes of marriage children, we cannot change His doctrine. It is not ours to change. and childbearing. These pressures have already authorized same-gender His doctrine is ours to study, understand, and uphold. marriages in various states and nations. Other pressures would confuse “. . . His way includes chastity before marriage and total fidelity gender or homogenize those differences between men and women that within marriage. The Lord’s way is the only way for us to experience are essential to accomplish God’s great plan of happiness. enduring happiness. His way brings sustained comfort to our souls “Our understanding of God’s plan and His doctrine gives us an eternal and perennial peace to our homes. And best of all, His way leads us perspective that does not allow us to condone such behaviors or to find home to Him and our Heavenly Father, to eternal life and exaltation. justification in the laws that permit them. And, unlike other organizations “. . . Each day is a day of decision, and our decisions determine that can change their policies and even their doctrines, our policies are our destiny. One day each of us will stand before the Lord in determined by the truths God has identified as unchangeable. . . . judgment. We will each have a personal interview with Jesus Christ. “In this determination we may be misunderstood, and we may incur We will account for decisions that we made about our bodies, accusations of bigotry, suffer discrimination, or have to withstand inva- our spiritual attributes, and how we honored God’s pattern for sions of our free exercise of religion. If so, I think we should remember marriage and family.” our first priority—to serve God.” Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

November 2013 7 PUT YOUR PERSONAL STRENGTH TRUST IN THE LORD THROUGH THE ATONEMENT “Fear will be replaced with faith and confidence OF JESUS CHRIST when members and the full-time missionaries “Recently, . . . one virtuous young woman asked me kneel in prayer and ask the Lord to bless them what I feel is the most important thing they should with missionary opportunities. Then, we must be doing in their lives right now. I suggested they demonstrate our faith and watch for opportunities to introduce the learn to recognize the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ in their gospel of Jesus Christ to our Heavenly Father’s children, and surely lives. . . . those opportunities will come. These opportunities will never require “It is a fundamental truth that through the Atonement of Jesus a forced or a contrived response. They will flow as a natural result Christ we can be cleansed. We can become virtuous and pure. of our love for our brothers and sisters. Just be positive, and those However, sometimes our poor choices leave us with long-term conse- whom you speak with will feel your love. They will never forget that quences. One of the vital steps to complete repentance is to bear the feeling, though the timing may not be right for them to embrace the short- and long-term consequences of our past sins. . . . gospel. . . . “Satan will try to use our memory of any previous guilt to lure us back “. . . I pray that none of you would ever feel that reaching out in into his influence. We must be ever vigilant to avoid his enticements. . . . normal, pleasant ways to share the gospel would ever be a burden. “The joyful news for anyone who desires to be rid of the conse- Rather, it is a privilege! There is no greater joy in life than being quences of past poor choices is that the Lord sees weaknesses differ- anxiously engaged in the service of the Lord. ently than He does rebellion. Whereas the Lord warns that unrepented “The key is that you be inspired of God, that you ask Him for rebellion will bring punishment, when the Lord speaks of weaknesses, direction and then go and do as the Spirit prompts you. When it is always with mercy. . . . members view the work of salvation as their responsibility alone, it “. . . Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, each of us can become can be intimidating. When they view it as an invitation to follow the clean and the burden of our rebellion will be lifted. Remember, Lord in bringing souls unto Him to be taught by the full-time elders repentance is not punishment. It is the hope-filled path to a more and sisters, it is inspiring, invigorating, and uplifting.” glorious future.” Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

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“The most important thing I learned is to never give up, because the Lord is on my side and will always help me.” Samuel J., 16, Upper Austria, Austria

GENERAL CONFERENCE: LIKE A BROKEN VESSEL STRENGTHENING “How do you best respond when mental or emotional FAITH AND TESTIMONY challenges confront you or those you love? Above all, “When I take notes at conference, I do not always never lose faith in your Father in Heaven, who loves write down exactly what the speaker is saying; I note you more than you can comprehend. As President the personalized direction the Spirit is giving me. Monson said to the Relief Society sisters so movingly “What is said is not as important as what we hear and what last Saturday evening: ‘That love never changes. . . . It is there for we feel. . . . you when you are sad or happy, discouraged or hopeful. God’s love “. . . The world is moving away from the Lord faster and farther than is there for you whether or not you feel you deserve [it]. It is simply ever before. The adversary has been loosed upon the earth. We watch, always there’ [‘We Never Walk Alone,’ Ensign, Nov. 2013, 123–24]. hear, read, study, and share the words of prophets to be forewarned Never, ever doubt that, and never harden your heart. Faithfully pursue and protected. For example, ‘The Family: A Proclamation to the World’ the time-tested devotional practices that bring the Spirit of the Lord was given long before we experienced the challenges now facing the into your life. Seek the counsel of those who hold keys for your family. ‘The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles’ was prepared spiritual well-being. Ask for and cherish priesthood blessings. Take the in advance of when we will need it most. . . . sacrament every week, and hold fast to the perfecting promises of the “The greatest blessings of general conference come to us after Atonement of Jesus Christ. Believe in miracles. I have seen so many the conference is over. Remember the pattern recorded frequently in of them come when every other indication would say that hope was scripture: we gather to hear the words of the Lord, and we return to lost. Hope is never lost. If those miracles do not come soon or fully or our homes to live them. . . . seemingly at all, remember the Savior’s own anguished example: if “In addition to inviting us to hold personal and family scripture study, the bitter cup does not pass, drink it and be strong, trusting in happier Heavenly Father wants us to regularly study and apply what we have days ahead. . . . learned in conference. I testify that those who put their trust in the “Also let us remember that through any illness or difficult challenge, Lord and heed this counsel in faith will gain great strength to bless there is still much in life to be hopeful about and grateful for. We are themselves and their families for generations to come.” infinitely more than our limitations or our afflictions!” Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

November 2013 9 “My testimony of the need to live ALL of the standards of the Church, especially those very basic habits of prayer, scripture study, and paying tithing, has been greatly strengthened. I know where I want to be in the eternities, and I am willing to do what it takes to get there.” Taylor A., 13, Utah, USA

THE WINDOWS OF HEAVEN LAMENTATIONS OF JEREMIAH: “As we live the law of tithing, we often receive BEWARE OF BONDAGE significant but subtle blessings that are not “God intended that men and women would be free always what we expect and easily can be to make choices between good and evil. . . . overlooked. . . . “. . . We should do everything within our power to “Often as we teach and testify about the law avoid the sin and rebellion that lead to bondage. . . . of tithing, we emphasize the immediate, dramatic, and readily “. . . Moral agency can be abused in many ways. I will mention four recognizable temporal blessings that we receive. And surely such that are particularly pernicious in today’s culture. blessings do occur. Yet some of the diverse blessings we obtain as “First, addictions that impair agency, contradict moral beliefs, and we are obedient to this commandment are significant but subtle. destroy good health cause bondage. . . . Such blessings can be discerned only if we are both spiritually “Second, some addictions or predilections, while not inherently evil, attentive and observant (see 1 Corinthians 2:14). . . . can use up our precious allotment of time which could otherwise be “For example, a subtle but significant blessing we receive is the used to accomplish virtuous objectives. These can include excessive spiritual gift of gratitude that enables our appreciation for what we use of social media, video and digital games, sports, recreation, and have to constrain desires for what we want. A grateful person is many others. . . . rich in contentment. An ungrateful person suffers in the poverty of “Third, the most universal subjugation in our day . . . is ideology or endless discontentment (see Luke 12:15). . . . political beliefs that are inconsistent with the gospel of Jesus Christ. “Sometimes we may ask God for success, and He gives us Substituting the philosophies of men for gospel truth can lead us away physical and mental stamina. We might plead for prosperity, from the simplicity of the Savior’s message. . . . and we receive enlarged perspective and increased patience, or “. . . Gospel truths are often rejected or distorted to make them we petition for growth and are blessed with the gift of grace. intellectually more appealing or more compatible with current cultural He may bestow upon us conviction and confidence as we strive trends and intellectual philosophies. . . . to achieve worthy goals. And when we plead for relief from phys- “Fourth, forces that violate sincerely held religious principles can result ical, mental, and spiritual difficulties, He may increase our resolve in bondage. . . . For example, health providers forced to choose between and resilience.” assisting with abortions against their consciences or losing their jobs.” Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

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“I felt reassurance and encourage- ment to keep working toward my goal of having an eternal family and staying home to teach and care for my future family.” Victoria G., 16, California, USA

THE MORAL FORCE OF WOMEN POWER IN THE PRIESTHOOD “Certainly there are trends and forces at work that “We sometimes overly associate the power of the would weaken and even eliminate [a woman’s] priesthood with men in the Church. The priest- influence . . . . Let me mention three as a caution hood is the power and authority of God given for and a warning. the salvation and blessing of all—men, women, “A pernicious philosophy that undermines women’s and children. moral influence is the devaluation of marriage and of motherhood “A man may open the drapes so the warm sunlight comes into the and homemaking as a career. . . . There is not a higher good than room, but the man does not own the sun or the light or the warmth motherhood and fatherhood in marriage. There is no superior career, it brings. The blessings of the priesthood are infinitely greater than and no amount of money, authority, or public acclaim can exceed the the one who is asked to administer the gift. ultimate rewards of family. . . . “To receive the blessings, power, and promises of the priesthood “Attitudes toward human sexuality threaten the moral authority of in this life and the next is one of the great opportunities and women on several fronts. Abortion for personal or social convenience responsibilities of mortality. As we are worthy, the ordinances of strikes at the heart of a woman’s most sacred powers and destroys her the priesthood enrich our lives on earth and prepare us for the moral authority. The same is true of sexual immorality and of revealing magnificent promises of the world ahead. The Lord said, ‘In the dress that not only debases women but reinforces the lie that a wom- ordinances . . . the power of godliness is manifest’ [D&C 84:20]. an’s sexuality is what defines her worth. . . . “There are special blessings from God for every worthy person “A third area of concern comes from those who, in the name of who is baptized, receives the Holy Ghost, and regularly partakes of equality, want to erase all differences between the masculine and the the sacrament. The temple brings added light and strength, along feminine. Often this takes the form of pushing women to adopt more with the promise of eternal life. masculine traits. . . . “All of the ordinances invite us to increase our faith in Jesus Christ “. . . In blurring feminine and masculine differences, we lose the and to make and keep covenants with God. As we keep these sacred distinct, complementary gifts of men and women. . . . covenants, we receive priesthood power and blessings. “My plea to women and girls today is to protect and cultivate the “Do we not feel this power of the priesthood in our own lives and moral force that is within you.” see it among the covenant-keeping members of the Church?” Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

November 2013 11 HASTENING THE WORK OF SALVATION

Now Is the Time Share and Testify “The holy scriptures contain no proclamation more relevant, no responsibility more “Your personal conversion will binding, no instruction more direct than the injunction given by the resurrected help you as you prepare to make Lord as He appeared in Galilee to the eleven disciples. Said He, ‘Go ye therefore, covenants in the temple, serve and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the missions, and establish your own future Holy Ghost’ [Matthew 28:19]. The Prophet Joseph Smith declared, ‘After all that has been said, homes. As you are converted, you will have the greatest and most important duty is to preach the Gospel’ [Teachings of Presidents of the a desire to share with others what you have Church: Joseph Smith (2007), 330]. . . . President David O. McKay . . . phrased the familiar learned, and your confidence and ability to ‘Every member a missionary!’ [in Conference Report, Apr. 1959, 122]. testify to others with conviction and power “To their words I add my own. Now is the time for members and missionaries to come will increase. This desire to share the gospel together, to work together, to labor in the Lord’s vineyard to bring souls unto Him. He has with others and the confidence to testify prepared the means for us to share the gospel in a multitude of ways, and He will assist us in boldly are natural results of true conversion.” our labors if we will act in faith to fulfill His work.” Sister Bonnie L. Oscarson, Young Women President Thomas S. Monson general president

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Reach Out and Invite Make a Game Plan “I was reminded that I should pray “I testify that many of those who “If we, as members, really loved for missionary experiences and then need our help are there waiting our family, friends, and asso- watch for opportunities to share my for us. They are ready for their ciates, wouldn’t we want to testimony. I need to be sharing it with valiant brothers and sisters to reach out to share our testimony of the restored gospel my friends, without any hesitation.” them and rescue them through small and with them? . . . Sarah C., 15, Florida, USA simple means. I have personally spent many “We need to be engaged as never before hours visiting less-active members of the to match the excitement of our leaders and Trust the Lord and Church whose hearts have already been the commitment of our full-time missionaries. Experience Miracles softened by the Lord, who are now ready This work is not going to move forward in the “Trust the Lord. He is the Good to receive our testimonies and our sincere Lord’s intended way without us! As President Shepherd. He knows His sheep, expressions of love. When we reach out and Henry B. Eyring has said, ‘Whatever our age, and His sheep know His voice; and today invite them, they will return to the Church capacity, Church calling, or location, we are the voice of the Good Shepherd is your voice without hesitation. as one called to the work to help Him in His and my voice. And if we are not engaged, “Let us reach out to others with faith harvest of souls’ (‘We Are One,’ Ensign or many who would hear the message of the and with love.” Liahona, May 2013, 62). Restoration will be passed by. Simply stated, Elder Arnulfo Valenzuela of the Seventy “. . . I invite you to consider these three it’s a matter of faith and action on our points as you think about your . . . plan. part. The principles are pretty simple—pray, Find Great Happiness “First, specifically pray to bring someone personally and in your family, for mission- “Doors and hearts open daily to closer to the Savior and His gospel every day. ary opportunities. Pray for the Lord to put the gospel message—a message You could do this by seeing all people as sons opportunities in your path. The Lord has that brings hope and peace and and daughters of God helping each other on said in the Doctrine and Covenants that joy to the children of God throughout the their journey home. Think of the new friends many people have been kept from the truth world. If you are humble, obedient, and you would make. only ‘because they know not where to find hearken to the voice of the Spirit, you will “Second, pray for the missionaries serving it’ (D&C 123:12). find great happiness in your service as a in your area and their investigators by name “You don’t have to be an outgoing person missionary. What a wonderful season it is to every day. The only way to do this is to greet or an eloquent, persuasive teacher. If you be a missionary—a time when the Lord is them, look at their badge, call them by name, have an abiding love and hope within you, hastening His work!” and ask them who they are teaching. . . . the Lord has promised if you ‘lift up your “Third, invite a friend to an activity in or out Elder Randy D. Funk of the Seventy voices unto this people [and] speak the of your home. Wherever you go or whatever thoughts that [He] shall put into your hearts, you do, ponder who would enjoy the occasion Unite in the Work . . . you shall not be confounded before men. and then listen to the Spirit as He directs you.” “The new converts, youth, young “‘[And] it shall be given you . . . in the Elder S. Gifford Nielsen of the Seventy adults, those who have retired very moment, what ye shall say’ (D&C from their professions, and full- 100:5–6). . . . time missionaries need to be equally yoked in Qualify for the Work “. . . If every member, young and old, will hastening the work of salvation. . . . “Righteous living is a prerequisite reach out to just ‘one’ between now and “May we all unite in a common objective for assisting the Lord in gath- Christmas, millions will feel the love of the ‘to bring to pass the immortality and eternal ering His elect and in the literal Lord Jesus Christ. And what a wonderful gift life of man’ (Moses 1:39).” gathering of Israel.” to the Savior. . . . Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the “God bless you, brothers and sisters, to Elder Edward Dube of the Seventy Twelve Apostles find the great joy that comes from experienc- ing miracles through your faith.” Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

November 2013 13 ANSWERS TO MY QUESTIONS

What if I pay tithing but haven’t received How can we have the blessings I think I ought to receive? unity in the Church when we’re all so “We may need and pray for help to find suitable employment. Eyes and ears of faith (see Ether 12:19) are needed, however, to recognize the spiritual gift of different? enhanced discernment that can empower us to identify job opportunities that “Unity is not achieved by many other people might overlook—or the blessing of greater personal ignoring and isolating determination to search harder and longer for a position than other people may be able or members who seem to be willing to do. We might want and expect a job offer, but the blessing that comes to us through different or weaker and only heavenly windows may be greater capacity to act and change our own circumstances rather associating with people who are like us. than expecting our circumstances to be changed by someone or something else. On the contrary, unity is gained by “We may appropriately desire and work to receive a pay raise in our employment to welcoming and serving those who are better provide the necessities of life. Eyes and ears of faith are required, however, to notice new and who have particular needs. in us an increased spiritual and temporal capacity (see Luke 2:52) to do more with less, These members are a blessing for the a keener ability to prioritize and simplify, and an enhanced ability to take proper care of Church and provide us with opportuni- the material possessions we already have acquired. We might want and expect a larger ties to serve our neighbors and thus paycheck, but the blessing that comes to us through heavenly windows may be greater purify our own hearts. capacity to change our own circumstances rather than expecting our circumstances to be “So, . . . it is your duty to reach out changed by someone or something else.” to anyone who appears at the doors of Elder David A. Bednar of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles your Church buildings. Welcome them with gratitude and without prejudice. If people you do not know walk into one “So many times it felt like the speakers of your meetings, greet them warmly were talking directly to me, and the and invite them to sit with you. Please Spirit testified the truth of what they make the first move to help them feel spoke to my heart. I was able to welcome and loved, rather than waiting receive answers to my prayers and for them to come to you.” strengthen my testimony that these Bishop Gérald Caussé, First Counselor in leaders were all called by the Lord.” the Presiding Bishopric Emmett F., 16, South Carolina, USA

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Why is life so hard? “As we draw near to Him, we realize that mortality is meant to be difficult and that ‘opposition in all things’ (2 Nephi 2:11) is not a flaw in the plan of Why is the Church What will happen to salvation. Opposition, rather, is the opposed to same-sex people with disabilities indispensable element of mortality and marriage? after this life? strengthens our will and refines our choices. The vicissitudes of life help us “Marriage between a man “I bear witness of that day fashion an eternal relationship with and a woman is fundamen- when loved ones whom we God—and engrave His image upon our tal to the Lord’s doctrine knew to have disabilities in countenance as we yield our hearts to and crucial to God’s eternal mortality will stand before us Him (see Alma 5:19).” plan. Marriage between a man and a glorified and grand, breathtakingly Elder Timothy J. Dyches of the Seventy woman is God’s pattern for a fulness of perfect in body and mind. What a life on earth and in heaven. God’s thrilling moment that will be! I do not marriage pattern cannot be abused, know whether we will be happier for misunderstood, or misconstrued. Not if ourselves that we have witnessed such a “I felt the Spirit telling me that if I you want true joy. God’s marriage miracle or happier for them that they are want to become better, then this pattern protects the sacred power of fully perfect and finally ‘free at last.’ talk is my answer, and then this one, procreation and the joy of true marital Until that hour when Christ’s consum- and so on, all the way through con- intimacy. We know that Adam and Eve mate gift is evident to us all, may we live ference. I look forward to the next were married by God before they ever by faith, hold fast to hope, and show six months as I work to improve experienced the joy of uniting as ‘compassion one of another’ [1 Peter 3:8].” myself with what I have gained.” husband and wife. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of Joseph R., 17, British Columbia, Canada “In our day civil governments have a the Twelve Apostles vested interest in protecting marriage because strong families constitute the best way of providing for the health, education, welfare, and prosperity of rising generations. But civil govern- ments are heavily influenced by social trends and secular philosophies as they write, rewrite, and enforce laws. Regardless of what civil legislation may be enacted, the doctrine of the Lord regarding marriage and morality cannot be changed. Remember: sin, even if legalized by man, is still sin in the eyes of God!” Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

November 2013 15 “Hearing the leaders of this Church talk about how to stay strong has I’ve been asked to teach helped me realize that the struggles a lesson in church. How I’m facing are not eternal struggles. should I prepare? They are just temporary, and with the Lord’s help, I can do anything!” “The power of the gospel comes into the lives of those Cassidy M., 16, Alabama, USA who so live that the Holy Ghost is their companion and who follow the promptings they receive. Some focus their attention only on obtaining the word, and they become I’ve repented, so why experts in delivering information. Others can’t everything go back neglect their preparation and hope that to the way it was the Lord in His goodness will somehow before? help them get through the class period. How can I You cannot expect the Spirit to help you control my temper? “It is a fundamental truth remember the scriptures and principles that through the Atonement you have not studied or considered. In “Another important step to of Jesus Christ we can be order to successfully teach the gospel, becoming meek is learning cleansed. We can become you must have both the word and the how to control our temper. virtuous and pure. However, sometimes power of the gospel in your life. . . . Because the natural man our poor choices leave us with long-term “After you have prepared yourself and dwells within each one of us and consequences. One of the vital steps to your lesson to the very best of your abil- because we live in a world full of complete repentance is to bear the ity, you must be willing to let go. When pressure, controlling our temper may short- and long-term consequences of the quiet promptings of the Holy Ghost become one of the challenges in our our past sins.” come, you must have the courage to set lives. Think for a few seconds how you Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the aside your outlines and your notes and react when someone does not comply Twelve Apostles go where those promptings take you. with your desires the moment you want When you do this, the lesson you deliver them to. What about when people is no longer your lesson, but it becomes disagree with your ideas, even though the Savior’s lesson.” you are absolutely sure that they David M. McConkie, first counselor in the represent the proper solution to a What if I Sunday School general presidency problem? What is your response when don’t feel like I can someone offends you, critiques your live up to the Church’s efforts, or is simply unkind because he or standards? she is in a bad mood? At these moments and in other difficult situations, we must “Some might say, ‘I don’t learn to control our temper and convey think I could live up to our feelings with patience and gentle your standards.’ persuasion. This is most important within “All the more reason to our homes and within our relationships come! The Church is designed to nourish with our eternal companions. During the the imperfect, the struggling, and the 31 years I’ve been married to my exhausted. It is filled with people who sweetheart, she has often given me desire with all their heart to keep the gentle reminders of this as we have commandments, even if they haven’t faced life’s unsettling challenges.” mastered them yet.” Elder Ulisses Soares of the President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second Presidency of the Seventy Counselor in the First Presidency

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What can I do if a member of my family is straying from the Church’s standards and teachings? “The way for . . . all of God’s servants will not be easy in a decaying world. We cannot force God’s children to choose the way to happiness. God cannot do that because of the agency He has given us. “Heavenly Father and His Beloved Son love all of God’s children no matter what they choose to do or what they become. The Savior paid the price of all sins, no matter how heinous. Even though there must be justice, the opportunity for mercy is extended which will not “I learnt* a lot about humility and the importance of turning to the Lord to know rob justice. . . . His will. I also learnt about treasuring up the words of the gospel through the “My message then . . . is that there prophets and scriptures and how important it will be as I prepare to serve a is joy guaranteed for the faithful. full-time mission. In order to really understand the gospel and preach, I will From before the world was, a loving need to treasure the words to explain the feelings and thoughts coinciding Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son with doctrine I have felt, not just simply memorising words from a book but loved and worked with those who expressing the testimony of these truths myself.” They knew would wander. God will Joshua F., 17, West Yorkshire, England love them forever. * British spellings have been preserved. “You have the advantage of knowing that they learned the plan of salvation from the teachings they received in the spirit world. They and you were faithful Why doesn’t God just stop bad stuff from happening? enough to be allowed to come into the “Why does He warn any of us to remove ourselves from a source of danger world when many others were not. when He could simply stop the danger from happening? President Wilford “With the help of the Holy Ghost, all Woodruff told the story of being spiritually warned to move the carriage that truths will be brought to our remem- he, his wife, and child slept in, only to discover that a whirlwind shortly brance. We cannot force that on others, thereafter uprooted a large tree and dropped it exactly where the carriage had previously but we can let them see it in our lives. stood (see Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Wilford Woodruff [2004], 47). We can always take courage from the “. . . The weather could have been adjusted to eliminate the dangers. But here is the assurance that we all once felt the joy point—rather than solve the problem Himself, the Lord wants us to develop the faith that of being together as a member of the will help us rely upon Him in solving our problems and trust Him. Then we can feel His love beloved family of our Heavenly Father. more constantly, more powerfully, more clearly, and more personally. We become united With God’s help we can all feel that with Him, and we can become like Him. For us to be like Him is His goal. In fact, it is His hope and that joy again.” glory as well as His work (see Moses 1:39).” President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor in the First Presidency Elder Terence M. Vinson of the Seventy

November 2013 17 WORDS TO LIVE BY

Be Ye Converted “Young friends, we live in perilous times, and the decisions which you are called upon to make on a daily, or even hourly, basis have eternal consequences. The decisions you make in your daily life will determine what happens to you later. . . . “. . . Conversion takes place as we are diligent about saying our prayers, studying our scriptures, attending church, and being worthy to participate in temple ordinances. Conversion comes as we act upon the righteous principles we learn in our homes and in the classroom. Conversion comes as we live pure and virtuous lives and enjoy the companionship of the Holy Ghost. Conversion comes as we understand the Atonement of Jesus Christ, acknowledge Him as our Savior and Redeemer, and allow the Atonement to take effect in our lives.” Bonnie L. Oscarson, Young Women general president

“The Spirit I felt was so good that I just

couldn’t stop smiling! I loved all the words that were said, but I especially loved

those from the Young Women general

president. They really made me feel I was a daughter of God and that He loves me.”

Catarina F., 16, Centro Region, Portugal

Establish Your Priorities “For Latter-day Saints, God’s com- mandments are based on and inseparable from God’s plan for His children—the great plan of salvation. . . . If we Latter-day Saints, who have been given this knowledge, do not establish our priorities in accord with this plan, we are in danger of serving other gods. . . . “I pray that we will not let the temporary challenges of mortality cause us to forget the great commandments and priorities we have

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been given by our Creator and our Savior. “He has a plan for us, and when we branch president, or mission president and We must not set our hearts so much on the exercise our faith and trust in His plan, our begin the process of repentance now. things of the world and aspire to the honors reverence for Him and for His priesthood “The healing power of the Atonement will of men (see D&C 121:35) that we stop trying power and authority will be strengthened.” bring peace to your soul and enable you to achieve our eternal destiny.” Sister Carole M. Stephens, first counselor in the to feel the Holy Spirit. The Savior’s sacrifice Relief Society general presidency Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the is beyond measure, but our sins, though Twelve Apostles numerous and serious, may be counted Rest Up, Replenish, and confessed, forsaken and forgiven. Single-Minded Devotion and Refill ‘And how great is his joy in the soul that “Sisters, of all your associations, it “In preventing illness whenever repenteth!’ [D&C 18:13].” possible, watch for the stress is your relationship with God, your Elder Randy D. Funk of the Seventy Heavenly Father, who is the source indicators in yourself and in others you may of your moral power, that you must always put be able to help. As with your automobile, Service to Others first in your life. Remember that Jesus’s power be alert to rising temperatures, excessive “Fill your life with service to others. came through His single-minded devotion to speed, or a tank low on fuel. When you face As you lose your life in the service the will of the Father. He never varied from ‘depletion depression,’ make the requisite of Father in Heaven’s children, that which pleased His Father. Strive to be that adjustments. Fatigue is the common enemy Satan’s temptations lose power in your life.” kind of disciple of the Father and the Son, and of us all—so slow down, rest up, replenish, and refill. Physicians promise us that if we do Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the your influence will never fade.” Twelve Apostles Elder D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of not take time to be well, we most assuredly the Twelve Apostles will take time later on to be ill.” Be Meek and Lowly Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the of Heart Twelve Apostles The Power, Joy, and Love “Meekness is vital for us to of Covenant Keeping become more Christlike. Without “Covenant keepers are command- Ye Are No More Strangers it we won’t be able to develop other impor- ment keepers! . . . “In this Church there are no tant virtues. Being meek does not mean “. . . I invite each of us to evaluate how strangers and no outcasts. There weakness, but it does mean behaving with much we love the Savior, using as a measure are only brothers and sisters. The goodness and kindness, showing strength, how joyfully we keep our covenants. The Savior knowledge that we have of an Eternal Father serenity, healthy self-worth, and self-control.” said, ‘He that hath my commandments, and helps us be more sensitive to the brother- Elder Ulisses Soares of the keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he hood and sisterhood that should exist among Presidency of the Seventy that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and all men and women upon the earth.” I will love him, and will manifest myself to Bishop Gérald Caussé, First Counselor in the him’ [John 14:21]. How we all need a regular Presiding Bishopric manifestation of the Savior in our daily lives!” Sister Linda K. Burton, Relief Society Called of Him to Declare general president His Word “If you are burdened by sin and Do We Know What need to repent, please do so We Have? immediately. When the Savior healed those “There exists today a great who were afflicted, He often invited them to need for men and women to rise up. The scriptures record that they did cultivate respect for each other as sons and so straightway, or immediately [see Mark daughters of God and reverence for our 5:41–42; John 5:8–9]. To be healed of your Father in Heaven and His priesthood—His spiritual afflictions, please accept His invitation power and authority. to rise up. Without delay, talk to your bishop,

November 2013 19 your faith by mixing lies with half-truths. This is why it is absolutely critical that you remain constantly worthy of the Spirit. The compan- ionship of the Holy Ghost is not just a pleasant convenience—it is essential to your spiritual survival. If you will not treasure up the words of Christ and listen closely to the promptings of the Spirit, you will be deceived (see Joseph Smith—Matthew 1:37).” Elder Adrián Ochoa of the Seventy

Drawing Closer to God “God should be the center of our universe—our literal focal point. Is He? Or is He sometimes far from the thoughts and intents of our hearts? (see Mosiah 5:13). Notice that it’s not just the thoughts of our hearts that are important but the ‘intents.’” Don’t Become Enslaved The Strength to Endure Elder Terence M. Vinson of the Seventy “When evil choices become the “A testimony, like your body, dominant characteristic of a cul- needs to be in shape if you want Claim the Blessings of ture or nation, there are serious it to endure. So how do we keep Your Covenants consequences both in this life and the life to our testimonies in shape? We cannot get our “I testify that the Lord has a plan come. People can become enslaved or put bodies into good basketball shape by simply for each of our lives. Nothing that themselves in bondage not only to harmful, watching basketball on television. Similarly, happens is a shock or a surprise to Him. He addictive substances but also to harmful, we won’t be able to get our testimonies in is all-knowing and all-loving. He is eager to addictive philosophies that detract from shape by simply watching general conference help us, to comfort us, and to ease our pain righteous living.” on television. We need to study and learn the as we rely on the power of the Atonement Elder Quentin L. Cook of the Quorum of the fundamental principles of the gospel of Jesus and honor our covenants. The trials and Twelve Apostles Christ, and then we must do our very best to tribulation that we experience may be the live them. That is how we become disciples very things that guide us to come unto Him Teaching with the Power of Jesus Christ, and that is how we build an and cling to our covenants so that we might and Authority of God enduring testimony.” return to His presence and receive all that “As you dedicate yourself to Elder Richard J. Maynes of the the Father hath.” living the gospel with greater Presidency of the Seventy Linda S. Reeves, second counselor in the Relief purpose than ever before and search the Society general presidency scriptures, treasuring them up in your heart, Look Up the . . . Holy Ghost . . . will testify to you of “If you ever come across anything “This conference has been a renewing their truthfulness. . . . When this happens, the that causes you to question your words that you read are no longer only the testimony of the gospel, I plead charge in a world that has lost its words of Nephi or Paul or Alma, but they with you to look up. Look to the Source of spiritual battery.” become your words.” all wisdom and truth. Nourish your faith and Joseph V., 15, Idaho, USA David M. McConkie, first counselor in the Sunday testimony with the word of God. There are School general presidency those in the world who seek to undermine

20 New Era The we PTU re not SCRI RES we hold placed h THE KEYS on this eart to to walk SPIRITUAL PROTECTION. alone.

President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, President Thomas S. Monson, October 2013 general conference September 2013 general Relief Society meeting

The wise use of your freedom Man's laws to make your own decisions is cannot crucial to your spiritual growth, make moral now and for eternity. . . . what god has declared immoral. the lord’s way commitment to our is the only way for highest priority us to — to love and serve God—— experience enduring REQUIRES THAT WE LOOK TO HIS LAW FOR OUR STANDARD OF BEHAVIOR. happiness.

Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, October 2013 general conference October 2013 general conference “We were not placed on this earth to walk “The scriptures hold the keys to spiritual alone. What an amazing source of power, protection. They contain the doctrine and of strength, and of comfort is available to laws and ordinances that will bring each each of us. He who knows us better than child of God to a testimony of Jesus Christ we know ourselves, He who sees the larger picture as the Savior and Redeemer. and who knows the end from the beginning, has “. . . They teach us where to go and what to do. assured us that He will be there for us to provide help They offer hope and knowledge.” if we but ask. We have the promise: ‘Pray always, and President Boyd K. Packer, President of the Quorum of the be believing, and all things shall work together for Twelve Apostles, October 2013 general conference your good’ [D&C 90:24].” President Thomas S. Monson, September 2013 general Relief Society meeting

“The wise use of your freedom to make “Our twelfth article of faith states our belief your own decisions is crucial to your in being subject to civil authority and ‘in spiritual growth, now and for eternity. You obeying, honoring, and sustaining the are never too young to learn, never too law.’ But man’s laws cannot make moral old to change. Your yearnings to learn and change what God has declared immoral. Commitment to our come from a divinely instilled striving for eternal highest priority—to love and serve God—requires progression. Each day brings opportunity for decisions that we look to His law for our standard of behavior. for eternity. . . . For example, we remain under divine command not to “The Savior’s way of life is good. His way includes commit adultery or fornication even when those acts chastity before marriage and total fidelity within mar- are no longer crimes under the laws of the states or riage. The Lord’s way is the only way for us to expe- countries where we reside. Similarly, laws legalizing so- rience enduring happiness. His way brings sustained called ‘same-sex marriage’ do not change God’s law comfort to our souls and perennial peace to our of marriage or His commandments and our standards homes. And best of all, His way leads us home to Him concerning it. We remain under covenant to love God and our Heavenly Father, to eternal life and exaltation. and keep His commandments and to refrain from serv- This is the very essence of God’s work and glory.” ing other gods and priorities—even those becoming Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve popular in our particular time and place.” Apostles, October 2013 general conference Elder Dallin H. Oaks of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, October 2013 general conference General Conference is for you

LEARNING FROM CONFERENCE

THE SCRIPTURES IN GENERAL CONFERENCE

Did you notice all of the scriptures mentioned in general conference? Here are the ones that were referred to most often:

• Moses 1:39 * • Mosiah 5:2 “For behold, this is my work and my glory— “The Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent . . . has to bring to pass the immortality and eternal wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, life of man.” that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually.” • Matthew 11:28–30 * “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are • Mosiah 18:9 heavy laden, and I will give you rest. “Mourn with those that mourn; yea, and “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest . . . stand as witnesses of God at all times and in unto your souls. all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” until death, . . . that ye may have eternal life.” • Luke 22:32 • Doctrine and Covenants 18:13 “When thou art converted, strengthen “How great is his joy in the soul thy brethren.” that repenteth!” • 2 Nephi 31:20 * “Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect bright- ness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life.” * Seminary scripture mastery verses

SUPPORT FOR SUNDAY LESSONS

Messages from this conference have already been added to your Come, Follow Me lessons. Find out more at lds.org/youth/learn, and read each talk at conference.lds.org.

As you prepare for Sunday lessons, consider reviewing the conference talks below.

November: Spiritual and January: The Godhead March: The Atonement Temporal Self-Reliance • President Henry B. Eyring of Jesus Christ • Elder Russell M. Nelson (Sunday morning session) • President Dieter F. Uchtdorf • Elder David A. Bednar • Elder Terence M. Vinson (priesthood session) • President Boyd K. Packer December: Building the February: The Plan of • Elder Richard G. Scott Kingdom of God in the Salvation Latter Days • President Dieter F. Uchtdorf April: The Apostasy and • President Thomas S. Monson (priesthood session) the Restoration (priesthood session) • Elder Dallin H. Oaks • Elder L. Tom Perry • Elder M. Russell Ballard • Elder Quentin L. Cook • Elder S. Gifford Nielsen

November 2013 23 24 By ColinMason

New Era tion. Heslowly walked toward his - out toseecompleteandutter destruc emerged fromthebunker andlooked disappeared fromsatellite. pletely covered withwater—it even the storm, theentire islandwas com- (322 km/h). Andduringtheworst of traveled atover 200milesperhour hurricane. a category-5 The winds small islandwiththefullforce of supplied withemergency essentials. of theislandandthatthey always kept a bunker thathe’d builtinthemiddle uncle stayed toweather in thestorm aunt hadevacuated toFlorida, butmy forheading straight theirhome. My Ivan thatHurricane was ily learned as Alley.”“Hurricane In2004ourfam- When the storm wasWhen thestorm over, myuncle IvanHurricane slammedintothe in a part oftheworldin apart known tiny islandintheCaribbean y auntandunclelive ona it survived, sowe toomustbuildour built theirhouseonsolidrock sothat ence. Justasmyauntandunclehad dation canreallymake a bigdiffer tion myunclehadbuilt. could notdestroy thestrongfounda- rock 20feet down. Even ahurricane anchored thefoundation intothebed- he’d builtthehouse, he’d boredand fortold ushisstrategy success. When had survived whentheothersfell, he had survived too. lights were onbecausehisgenerator andstandingtall.pletely intact The devastation, hislonehousecom- anxiously looked andsaw, amidthe what he’d findwhenhearrived home. had beendestroyed. Hewas dreading as helooked atallofthehousesthat home onthecoast, sank andhisheart I realizedthathaving astrongfoun- When we asked himhow hishouse As hecamearoundthecurve, he -

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY DAVID STOKER; DETAIL OFCHRIST AND THE RICH YOUNG RULER BY HEINRICH HOFMANN, COURTESY OF C. HARRISON CONROY CO. INC. lives on the “rock of our Redeemer, n the April 2013 general conference, Savior and contradicts the great, eter- who is Christ, the Son of God, . . . IElder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of nal plan of happiness for all of God’s which is a sure foundation, a founda- the Twelve Apostles mentioned several children” (“Stand Strong in Holy Places,” tion whereon if men build they cannot ways we can “become strong in the Lord” Ensign, May 2013, 50). fall” (Helaman 5:12). by building our foundation in Him. For Read more from Elder Hales’s address We can build our strong foun- example, we can: at lds.org/go/13Stand, along with the dations—spiritually speaking—by talk “A Sure Foundation” from Bishop • Learn doctrine and share testimonies reading the scriptures, listening to the Dean M. Davies at lds.org/go/13Sure, with Come, Follow Me Sunday lessons counsel of our Church leaders, follow- or find them in the May 2013 issue and activities. ing the principles outlined in For the of the Ensign. • Develop our gifts and talents as Strength of Youth, and striving to live the Spirit guides. the commandments so we can always • Participate in family, quorum, class, have the Spirit with us. and Mutual activities. We can build rock-solid testimonies • Have faith in the Savior and fear not! of the Savior before the storms hit, so we will be prepared. We will be As we do these things and build our ready to withstand any temptations foundation on the rock of Christ, we or trials that face us. And when we will be able to withstand any storms return to our Heavenly Father and to that threaten our spiritual safety. Elder our heavenly home, we can find that Hales said, “In the strength of the our spiritual home is standing, that the Lord we are able to stand against any lights are on, and that all is well. NE philosophy or creed that denies the Colin Mason lives in California, USA.

November 2013 25 Gaining a Testimony—

Experiences

By Joshua J. Perkey Church Magazines or Matison J., growing up in states or countries—it’s the same. The Alaska, USA, was probably a lot same teachings, the same gospel.” different from what many of us One of the most In the gospel of Jesus Christ, each experience elsewhere in the world. of us has a unique journey. But we It’s a pretty safe guess that most of important things each follow a path to conversion, us don’t need to chop enough fire- we can do in this make the same covenants, and strive wood to help heat our homes for to keep the same commandments. seven months of the year, haven’t life is gain an And for each of us, that path begins seen moose walking down the mid- abiding testimony with gaining a testimony. We may not dle of our street, and haven’t been all gain a testimony the same way, on black bear hunts or fished for of the gospel of but we each need one. salmon in the ocean. “There is absolutely nothing in But for members of The Church Jesus Christ. this world that will provide more of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, comfort and happiness than a tes- the similarities we share outnumber timony of the truth,” says President the differences. Matison says, “The Thomas S. Monson.1 Church is the same no matter where Matison and his siblings, Mackena you go. Down in the [Alaskan] cities and Merrick, each found this to be

of Valdez or Homer—or in other true, but in three very different ways. PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA J. PERKEY AND ISTOCKPHOTO/THINKSTOCK

26 New Era PHOTOGRAPHS BY JOSHUA J. PERKEY AND ISTOCKPHOTO/THINKSTOCK 2 1 Thou Fount ofEvery Blessing.” Tabernaclerecording oftheMormon Choirperforming “Come he hadthatday. did, Asheoften singingalongtoa hestarted to school. Hewas feeling reallystressedbecauseofabigtest knew Iwas doingtherightthings.” stressed. Butallofasuddeneverything becamecalm. And I andpeaceinmymind.of comfort Ihadbeenfeeling really thing hitthecar. Itwas justsuchastrong, overwhelming feeling let thatgo—ever.” know how preciousmyfaithistome, andInever want to me andloves me. Jesus Christismyvery, very bestfriend. Iknow thatHeknows for thefirsttime inmylife. AndIrepented. Now I feel that So Iprayed reading my scripturesby myself alotandIstarted then itwillcome.” achordwithMackena.The message struck time inmylife.” It was reallyhard. Itwas theloneliest, mostterrible, saddest lot. Andfor threeyears Ididn’tknow thattheChurchistrue. loves me, andthattheChurchistrue. that myfamilycouldbetogetherforever, thatHeavenly Father gospel. Iknew thatthetemplewas whereIwas going. Iknew “And Ijustfelt ithitme,” hesays. “It was almostlike some- “I’m justreallygrateful,” Mackena says, “because now I “I decidedthatIreallywanted faith, becauseI was miserable. Then oneday teachertaught, herseminary “If you want faith, “But onceIgotintomiddleschool, Ibegandoubtinga true. ontheway Ithappenedonemorning helped himknowtherestoredgospelis testimony-building experience hehadthat standards helpedlay afoundation for a “I hadnever hadasingledoubtaboutthe of faith(seeEther12:6). avery personal,come untilafter painfultrial MATISON’S SONG MACKENA’S TRIAL For Matison, 17, alife oflivinggospel “Until thetimeIwas about12,” shesays, For Mackena, 15, hertestimonydidnot

November 2013

27 GAINING A TESTIMONY Matison, Mackena, and Merrick each received strong testimonies in three distinct ways, and your path to receiving one might be different from theirs. Just because one person received it one way doesn’t mean that someone else will have the same experience. But a testimony can come to all. Elder Robert D. Hales of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has taught: “As an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, I testify of the truth of what is in the scriptures and what has been told to me and can be told to you by the Holy Spirit. It will be revealed according to your obedience and desires. The Savior taught us dur- ing His mortal ministry this great truth that applies to all of us: ‘Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you’ (3 Nephi 18:20).” 2 No matter who you are, the first step to gaining a testimony begins MERRICK’S MOMENT with a desire. But it doesn’t end there. 3 For Merrick, 13, the simple choices he made to be in the right place at the right MAINTAINING A TESTIMONY Keeping a testimony is just as time brought him spiritual strength. He important as gaining one in the first chose to go on a pioneer reenactment trek place. President Monson said, “If with the youth in his ward. On the last you feel that you do not yet have the day, they held a testimony meeting and a lot of youth bore depth of testimony you would wish, their testimonies. I admonish you to work to achieve “It was really cool,” Merrick says. “You could feel the Spirit such a testimony. If it is strong and a lot by just sitting there and listening to these people talk deep, labor to keep it that way. How about all of the challenges they had on trek and how the blessed we are to have a knowledge pioneers had to do this but a lot worse. It was really cool of the truth.” 3 to hear their perspective on the gospel.” One of the ways Matison and Merrick work on strengthening

28 New Era their testimonies every day is by my testimony, gain a stronger one, focusing on doing their duty as and stay on the right track for life.” The Power of Prayer priesthood holders. His experience also shows that the Once when Matison, Mackena, Merrick, “Every morning at 6:15 a.m.,” personal choices we make every day and their family were traveling to their Matison explains, “the guys in the build a testimony over time. cabin, their tractor kept getting stuck in family all sit down together and study Mackena has also discovered that the icy overflow. Eventually their dad the Duty to God booklet. It’s not about truth. She says, “I read my scriptures a decided they would have to make the requirements but rather a way of life lot and I pray a lot. Just doing the little rest of the trip on foot. But it would be and a choice of how to live your life. things every day, just smiling and trying cold and wet, with ice water soaking The principles help you change your to be happy and trying to see the big- them up to their knees and sometimes life so you’re living the way you’re ger picture when hard things happen. even to their waists. supposed to. That’s a fun thing.” I’ve also had opportunities to share the But their father said a simple prayer Merrick admits it’s not always easy gospel, which has strengthened my asking Heavenly Father to help them waking up early. “Sometimes I’ll fall testimony a lot too. I love this Church.” make it to the cabin, and off they went. asleep on the couch,” he says, laugh- As we each follow our journey in Soon they were singing Primary songs ing, “and they’ll have to wake me up. life, the pattern of actively seeking a and laughing along the way. They made We review Duty to God in our deacons testimony and then building it each it to where they’d stashed a canoe. Then quorum on Sundays too. Someone day—something these siblings have the whole family—two adults and four shares a short thought each week, experienced—is true for all of us, no children—canoed through the icy river and on fast Sundays we focus the full matter where we live. NE safely to their cabin. “The Lord helped us,” Matison relates. lesson on it.” (Each month, one Come, NOTES Follow Me lesson in Aaronic Priesthood 1. Thomas S. Monson, “See Others as They May “It turned out great. We said a prayer and Become,” Ensign, Nov. 2012, 68. centers around Duty to God.) 2. Robert D. Hales, “Gaining a Testimony of asked Him for help and safety, and it God the Father; His Son, Jesus Christ; and Merrick has learned that focusing the Holy Ghost,” Ensign, May 2008, 32. turned out to be a great experience.” on priesthood service “helps me keep 3. Thomas S. Monson, “See Others,” 68. DDII ZZZZ YY in the Dark Find out what Lehi’s dream has in common with a popular blindfold game.

FHE Object Lesson

f you’ve ever mists of darkness. played games This object Iwith a blindfold, lesson works great like pin the tail outside, but you can on the donkey, you also do it indoors know there’s all kinds in a large room. For of fun to be had in strap- setup, you’ll need to ping on a blindfold, spinning identify and mark two loca- around a few times, and then trying tions, preferably at least 20 feet to reach some distant target through sheer (6 m) apart. One will be the starting guesswork and nerves of steel. (Seriously, what’s not to love point, and the other represents the destination—or the about navigating around in the dark while dizzy?) tree of life. To mark the two points, you can use inanimate Well, with a little preparation, you can create an awe- objects, such as chairs, or ask family members to quietly some object lesson for family home evening by using stand at assigned posts. familiar techniques from this popular game. Pick a family member to blindfold and take her (or him) This object lesson relates to Lehi’s vision of the tree of to the starting point. It’s time for some spinning (but don’t life as found in 1 Nephi 8. For preparation, you’ll want to overdo it for safety reasons). Then, turn loose the blind- study up on the chapter and choose some verses to dis- folded family member, whose goal is to reach the tree of cuss as a family. life. Chances are she won’t even come close, not with the mists of darkness—the blindfold—cramping her style. THE MISTS OF DARKNESS Consider letting everybody take a turn, even if that If you live near a towering dark forest means rotating through people who are standing at the with thick, rolling mists that cloak the land start and finish locations. in obscurity, by all means, use that as your setting. For the At this point, consider discussing with your family the rest of us, a simple blindfold will serve perfectly well as the meaning of the mists of darkness (see 1 Nephi 12:17).

30 New Era ILLUSTRATIONS BY BRYAN BEACH word ofGodhelpsusfindour way. You mightread1 Nephi11:25anddiscusshow the how having an “iron rod” toholdmadeadifference. it tothefinalpoint. gle changemakes allthedifference insuccessfullymaking hold tohelpguidethemreachthedestination. That sin- before. This time, familymemberswillhave somethingto need tofinda way tosecuretherodbetween theobjects. both endsofthe “iron rod.” Ifyou’re usingobjects, you’ll ofrope. oralength temporarily ical object, maybe acouple ofPVC pipeslinked together this time, thetwo connect points withsometypeofphys- give your familyan “iron rod” oftheirown for thislesson. holding fasttotherodofiron” (1 Nephi8:30). It’s timeto Time for anotherdiscussion!Consider talkingabout Now repeattheblindfold-spin-and-release challengeas If you’re usingpeopletomarkthelocations, they’ll hold As before, you’ll andfinishpoints. usethesamestart But What • If • CONSIDERATIONS OTHER “The 1 Nephi that the scriptures or dream rod,

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(“Four Titles,” November 2013 May 2013, 59). Ensign,

NE

- 31 KUHA‘O’S Gift By David A. Edwards Though he is blind, this young man from Church Magazines Hawaii has discovered a gift that helps him see God’s love. henever a 15-year-old is asked to be ward organist, it’s a fairly remarkable Wthing. When it happened to Kuha‘o C. of Hawaii, it was even more remarkable for two reasons: (1) he had been playing piano for under three years and (2) he is blind. Beginning a few years ago, Kuha‘o would sit and play the piano during his regular visits to his grandparents. He didn’t have a piano at home, so

Watch Kuha‘o Play To see Kuha‘o play the piano and to hear more of his story, visit lds ​.org/​go/​13Gift.

32 New Era E L P S H M E I C S F E U E L M T H E S P I R I T .

it seemed like something fun to try. Soon, however, Kuha‘o moved far beyond just playing around with the keys; he was really playing—and playing well. Though he took a few lessons after that, he has been mostly self-taught. Kuha‘o was baptized in December 2009, and around that time he started playing the organ at the ward meeting- house, usually on Saturdays while his grandfather fulfilled his building maintenance assignment. He even started waking up at 5:30 a.m. on Sundays to hear Music and the Spoken Word with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir so that he could listen to the organ. It wasn’t long before he was either the piano or organ like ‘Now Let Us Rejoice’ [Hymns, asked to accompany his congregation. no. 3], for example. To feel the love of Heavenly Father One day Kuha‘o’s friend Andy Thunell heard him play- and that I’m really touched by the Spirit and that others are ing and was impressed with his ability to play by ear. Andy touched—this is what it’s about.” wanted to document this feat, so he made a video recording Kuha‘o understands that Heavenly Father has given him of Kuha‘o listening to a song for the first time and then play- a gift, a fact that is reinforced by something he carries with ing it right afterward. Andy posted this video on the Internet, him all the time—his name. “My names [Kuha‘o Makana]

PHOTOGRAPHS BY DAVID A. EDWARDS AND CHURCH PUBLISHING SERVICES; FLOWER PATTERN BY ISTOCKPHOTO/THINKSTOCK AND CHURCH PUBLISHING SERVICES; FLOWER PATTERN A. EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHS BY DAVID and people were amazed. Since then, many people have in Hawaiian mean ‘extraordinary gift,’” he explains. With taken notice of Kuha‘o, and he has started quite a career, his musical gift he wants to serve others, bear testimony, including more online videos, performances, recordings, and help people feel close to their Heavenly Father and His trips, and competitions, including one in which he won Son, Jesus Christ. a $10,000 first prize—which he donated to the Hawaii His grandmother, Iwalani C., says that after Kuha‘o per- Association of the Blind. forms, “people tell him, ‘You touched my heart,’ or, ‘You As a teacher in the Aaronic Priesthood, Kuha‘o touched my spirit,’ or, ‘You made me cry,’ because they feel enjoys fulfilling his priesthood duties and serving the Spirit when he plays. And I feel the Spirit when he plays.” others. “I like to serve people,” he says, “because As he embarks on a career in music—a field in which he that’s what it says in the scriptures—to be is still quite new—Kuha‘o continues to learn and grow in kind to others, to love thy neighbor as thy- the gospel. And, of course, he plays in church on Sundays. self, and to serve.” Through it all, he relies on another gift from Heavenly Like other young Latter-day Saints, Kuha‘o Father—his testimony of the gospel—to both guide loves to read the scriptures (in Braille), espe- and ground him. cially the Book of Mormon, because the scrip- “I am touched by the Savior, Jesus Christ,” he says. “I tures bring the Spirit. And when it comes right love Him so much. I want to stay close to Him, and I want down to it, that’s also why he enjoys music. the Lord to be with me. I know that the gospel is true and “Music helps me feel the Spirit,” he says. that President Thomas S. Monson is our prophet and leads “If I were to play something, I would hope us in the path of righteousness.” you can feel the Spirit inside you, that the Despite his challenges, Kuha‘o knows he has been blessed Spirit would give you a gentle touch. I feel with gifts from God. He also knows that one way to show an excitement when I play something on gratitude for these gifts is to use them to bless others. NE SUNDAY LESSONS This Month’s Topic: Every job has something amazing Spiritual and Temporal Self-Reliance to offer. These six youth talk about why hard work offers so much Super more than income. t’s a sad fact that in this day and age one can spend months searching help-wanted Iads without finding a single one asking TE NS for a professional candy taster. Likewise, it’s E amazing just how few positions are avail- able for part-time race-car testers. on the The good news is that any job can be exciting and rewarding, even though it may not seem like it at first. For the Strength of Youth teaches, “Work is honorable. Developing the capacity to work will help you contribute to the world in which you live” ([2011], 40). Work can provide needed income, life experience, and valuable skills. Every job has something to offer. Elder Neal A. By David Dickson Church Magazines Maxwell (1926–2004) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught, “Whether one is a neurosurgeon, forest ranger, mechanic, farmer, or teacher is a matter of preference not of principle” (“‘Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel,’” Ensign, May 1998, 38). So the type of work you do in your youth, whether as a paid employee or as service for your family or community, may not matter so much as learning the value of working and contributing to the world. Here, several youth whose lives have been blessed through hard work share a few tips about what they’ve learned.

34 New Era ILLUSTRATIONS BY JAKE PARKER

and tonetwork. ple. Sheadvisesallyouth tobecomeinvolved inactivities hadn’t beenputtingherselfout thereandmeetingpeo- she never would have ifshe found thisopportunity me aboutajobsheknew of,” Amysays. Amybelieves it? Byfirstjoiningtheswimteam. “Myswimcoachtexted tremendous blessing,” shesays. was abletosave upmoney andbuyacar. That hasbeena ing withthekids,” Amysays. job, especiallyteachingswimminglessons. “I like work- atthelocalrecreationcenter.instructor Sheenjoys her on Sunday—something toher. very important nate enoughtofindajobthatdoesn’trequireher work marketing,” says. Blythe the way. “I’ve alotabout learned she’s acquiredothertalentsalong dolls’ faces,” shesays. Inaddition, process. “My mainjobistopaintthe to asickchild. ing them,” says. Blythe They alsodonateonedollamonth much funthatthey decidedtokeep going. “We sell- started a-kind clothdollfor Blythe’s younger sister, they hadso In short, shesays it’s afantasticjob. Sohow didsheland The jobalsoprovides valuable income. “Last summerI Amy works year-round asalifeguard andswim PLUNGE THE Blythe, anartist, loves ofthe herpart

TOGETHER A STITCHING TAKING TAKING BUSINESS Blythe G.Blythe andhermommadeaone-of-

week. Andyet,- Amyhasbeenfortu

parents. Butwhen15-year-old nesses stay openseven days a business with one of their business withoneoftheir tourists. Asaresult, manybusi- a chance to launch a small a chancetolaunchsmall USA, thatispopularamong J. lives ofAlabama, inapart Not many teenagers get Not manyteenagersget Seventeen-year-old Amy closer together. “I love doingitwithmymom,” shesays. mals they now sell. personallydesignedseveralBlythe ofthestuffed ani- more dolls, they addedstuffed animalstotheirlineup. ing skillstogooduse. Assheandhermomsold In fact, hasalreadyputthosesew Blythe - “Now Icanmakeofthings.” allsorts “That’s beenreallyfun,” shesays. fashion,” shesays. in amoreproductive able tousemymoney that whenIpay tithing, I’m she receives fromwork. “I cansee of paying tithingasaresultoftheincome job,” shesays. too. managementskillsdefinitelycomefromhaving“Time a dational skills. received ofherlifeguard dutiesareexcellent aspart foun- cal field,” she explains. training she TheCPRandfirst-aid helpful. “I want togointothemedi- some ofthemmay prove extremely life skillsfromherjob. Inhercase, Running this business has brought Blythe and her mom andhermom Running thisbusinesshasbroughtBlythe She’s how tosew. alsolearned Last, notleast, butcertainly Amyhasgainedatestimony She’s aboutbalancingwork learned andschoolschedules Amy, too, haspicked upuseful “My momismybestfriend.” only fromgoingoutthereanddoingstuff.” you can’t learn in school that you can learn you inschoolthatyou can’tlearn canlearn says,Blythe “Go for it! There arealotofthings To ajob, otheryouth thinkingaboutstarting

November 2013

35 SUPER At age 12, Emma L. is a referrals. That’s how Emma keeps pick- BABYSITTER babysitting force to be reck- ing up more clients. “It’s easy if you start oned with. She has a résumé with one person and you’re a good babysitter,” and business cards. She’s certified she says. “Start small, and work your way up.” by the American Red Cross as a babysit- Because of her babysitting experience, ter. She has a well-stocked prize box for the kids she baby- Emma has gained other abilities, such as how sits. And she has enough clients to keep her babysitting as to be a problem-solver when young often as she wants. kids aren’t getting along. “Patience “It’s a really enjoyable job,” Emma says. “I’ve always is something good I’ve liked little children.” learned,” she says. Before starting as a babysitter, Emma saved up and She’s learned to enjoy used her own money to attend a two-day babysitting class her work—a great skill taught by the Red Cross. Her philosophy to develop her to pick up at any age. skills before starting the actual work was simple: “If you do “I like being around the a sloppy job, they won’t call you back.” kids and seeing them On the other hand, Emma believes that if you do a great happy,” says Emma. “I job, then you’ll not only be asked back, but you’ll also get like helping them out.”

THE CUTTER OF GRASS AND If an obnoxious weed Nathan D. is the one behind the mower. SLAYER OF tucked deep in a flower Nathan started mowing lawns for his bed seems to heave a neighbors in 2012. He knows how to WEEDS smug sigh of relief when the keep customers happy, in part because local teenager shows up to mow he believes in not merely doing the job right the grass—because, hey, a teenager but also in doing a bit more than is required. coming to do a quick job is Once he turns off the mower at a job, he double-checks no big threat to its existence, the lawn. “Make sure everything is done right and that right?—then that you haven’t missed any spots,” he advises to others inter- moment of satis- ested in lawn care. faction is After that, it’s time for the little something extra. “Before going to be leaving the job you’ve done,” Nathan says, “look for some short-lived if extra things that wouldn’t take much time to do.” Pulling 13-year-old stray weeds is one of his favorites. As a result of his income, Nathan has also learned great budgeting skills. Now in his second year of mowing lawns, Nathan has been able to buy school clothes and save for a mission.

36 New Era SHE DOES MUSIC, MONEY, For the past If having a variety of skills and work AND MISSION four years, THAT TOO experience on a résumé is a good thing— Brandon R., and it is—then 16-year-old Sarah K. is off PREP 17, has been to an awesome start. She has worked at able to earn spend- babysitting, house cleaning, and doing yard ing money and save for a work. She’s done photography shoots at weddings mission all while doing something he and receptions. And for the past nine months, Sarah has been working loves: teaching piano lessons. “I love part-time at a restaurant as a hostess and a busser. influencing others to enjoy the wonder- “I believe in a strong work ethic,” Sarah says. She ful gift of making music,” Brandon says. believes firmly that every job she’s had has taught Brandon has been taking lessons her something useful. himself since he was only two Sarah got started in her work-for-hire jobs years old. He currently the same way many Latter-day Saint youth do: has students ranging by checking first with people in her ward. “The from ages 6 to 15. He Church members started hiring me, and they would loves watching their tell their friends,” she says. progress as they learn It’s also been a family effort with her siblings. to enjoy playing. Sarah is the second-oldest of nine children. “When I started Her younger brothers know how to network teaching one student,” and find yard-work jobs. “Whenever they Brandon says, “he would run had a gig, I would tag along,” she explains. away. But then he started liking it Her work plans are only getting more and more.” started. “My goal is to be a cosmetologist and Now in his senior year, Brandon is to have a business degree so I can build seeking additional students so he can on that skill,” Sarah says. NE save money even faster for his mission. Brandon believes that from teach- ing piano, his teaching techniques in other areas have improved. “I think, for example, it’s easier to teach my JOIN THE CONVERSATION brother something in math or to teach Throughout November, your Sunday lessons will focus on spiritual and temporal self- somebody something in a class,” he reliance. As part of temporal self-reliance, developing a solid work ethic prepares us says. “There’s no better way to improve for service at home—with our current and future families—on missions, in careers, your teaching and with every other part of our lives. The talent and capacity to work hard will skills than to never stop being useful. Elder Neal A. Maxwell taught, “Work is always a spiritual practice.” necessity even if, for some, work is not an economic necessity” (“‘Put Your Shoulder to the Wheel,’” 38). In what ways does work bless your life? How are you learning to be self-reliant? Consider writing down your feelings and sharing them with your family, at church on Sunday, on social media, or with other youth at lds.org/go/113Work.

November 2013 37 Thinking SEVERAL MOVES Ahead By Matthew Garrett PHOTOGRAPHS BY MATTHEW REIER PHOTOGRAPHS BY MATTHEW

38 New Era A world-champion chess player explains how youth of the Church, like chess players, should plan for the future before they make their move.

n his own words, 15-year-old Kayden T. is “just a regular Kayden’s family life has also taught him to serve and kid who happens to love an occasional four-hour chess care for others. During one tournament, a friend of Imatch.” While he enjoys playing video games, biking, and Kayden’s became really upset about the competition. going to Church dances like many other youth, Kayden can Kayden was in the middle of a match, though, so he also claim that he is a world-champion chess player. couldn’t stop playing to help his friend. As he saw his Though Kayden won the world chess title for his age friend storm away from the tournament with tears in group at the Youth World Chess Championship in Slovenia, his eyes, Kayden knew that the only thing he could do he knows that he, like any other youth in the Church, has if he didn’t want to forfeit his game was to pray. So, dur- a purpose that is far greater than being able to say “check- ing the middle of his chess match, Kayden silently prayed mate” at the end of an epic match. that the friend would find Kayden’s mom. Immediately the Kayden understands that by being a positive example friend walked right by her, and she was able to help. By and a caring friend, he can leave a legacy that lasts long serving and praying for the well-being of his friend dur- after he’s achieved his final checkmate to end a chess ing a critical moment, Kayden realized that helping others match. By living Church standards and using his talents is the true victory. This has helped him prepare to serve to share the gospel and inspire others, Kayden has been and learn that “the worth of souls is great in the sight of preparing for his future, demonstrating that in life, like in God” (D&C 18:10). chess, it’s always better to plan several moves ahead. Sharing the Gospel Serving Friends and Family “I use chess as a way to get the gospel out there,” says Kayden was introduced to chess at a young age by his Kayden. When not moving his bishop on the chessboard, father. Playing with his father taught Kayden not only how Kayden can be found serving with his bishop and inviting to be a great chess player but also the importance of fam- non-LDS friends and less-active members to teachers quo- ily. In his home, family comes first. Whether it’s attending rum activities. His advice for sharing the gospel with others a play, a clogging performance, a cross-country meet, or is simple: think about how it blesses your life and share another activity that Kayden and his siblings are participat- your experiences. As a future missionary, Kayden is prepar- ing in, they all try to support one another. ing now by befriending new people and talking to them In addition to knowing that the support and sacrifice about his beliefs and faith. of his family has helped him reach his chess goals, Kayden Kayden also shares the gospel through social media. He also recognizes that his family members help him posts links to Church websites on his blog and Facebook become a better person and prepare for the future. profile to give others the chance to learn more and ask “Family helps keep your whole life in control,” he questions about the Church. After a chess-playing friend says. Family is also a place to strengthen your of Kayden’s heard about the Church from other friends, weaknesses. Although he may excel at chess, he turned to Kayden and asked him questions online. Kayden admits he isn’t the greatest cook and Eventually the friend was baptized. wishes he were better at public speaking. Sharing the gospel can be scary, but Kayden’s family He tries to learn from his brother Zac— makes it a goal to stand up for who and what they are who enjoys drama and performing as members of the Church. They try to use their talents arts—to overcome his shyness. to teach others about their beliefs. Hearing the spiritual

November 2013 39

PLAN YOUR LIFE experiences of an older brother on a mission He adds that for him, the need for the Spirit WITH PURPOSE has helped Kayden find the courage to talk makes consistently doing the little things “Perhaps no generation with others about his faith. “It can be scary, such as daily prayer and scripture study even of youth has faced such but when we take the time to share the gos- more important. far-reaching decisions as the youth of today. pel, especially when we do it one-on-one, Keeping the commandments allows him Provision must be made people will respect what we believe.” to uphold his standards and be an example. for school, mission, and As Kayden says, “Some people might not fully marriage. . . . Whatever Living the Standards understand our beliefs and standards, but we your age, whatever your When it comes to tools for teaching about do have an influence on them when we are circumstance, I admon- the gospel, orange juice may seem like an good examples.” ish you to plan your life with purpose.” unusual choice. But for Kayden’s family, it’s been just that. Kayden and his family cel- President Thomas S. Becoming Your Best Monson, “Come, All ebrate his victories with a glass of orange For Kayden’s chess career, becoming his Ye Sons of God,” Ensign, May 2013, 67. juice. Such an odd beverage of choice has best means working toward becoming a garnered attention and allowed Kayden to chess Grandmaster—the highest rank in all share his standards with others. In fact, after of chess. But, as Kayden says, what we do Kayden won the world championship, his in life should only be a part of who we are. mom exclaimed, “Orange juice and root beer In fact, despite his impressive chess skills, all around!” When somebody asked, “Can’t Kayden doesn’t even want to be remem- you stop being Mormon for just bered as a great chess player. He says, “I 10 minutes?” Kayden and his just want to be remembered as a friend and mom explained that, no, they a nice person. I truly care less about being could not loosen their stan- a chess player and more about being a dards for even a few minutes, nice person who inspires others. If people because their standards are remember me a few years down the road, part of who they are and what then all I really hope is that they’ll say, ‘That they stand for. was a really nice guy.’” There are few members of the Church Just as he needs to plan ahead in his chess in the upper ranks of the competitive matches, Kayden uses his decisions now as chess world, and when the standards stepping-stones to his most important future of most others around you are not as goals of serving a mission and then marrying black and white as the spaces on a in the temple and starting a family. “Chess chessboard, there can be temptation helps you focus and helps with your overall to let your guard down. Kayden life plan,” he says. “Each move affects the says, “Just as you have to focus in future and the outcome of the match. You chess to be successful, you have always have to be thinking things through to focus on the Spirit to remem- and setting long-term goals.” NE ber what’s most important.” Matthew Garrett lives in Washington, USA.

40 New Era MORMONAD

CALLED TO SHARE “There are new ways to invite others to ‘come and see’ [John 1:39]. Let’s make sharing our faith online more a part of our daily life.” Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, “It’s a Miracle,” Ensign, May 2013, 79. PHOTOGRAPH BY JOHN LUKE; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY NATE GINES BY NATE PHOTOGRAPH BY JOHN LUKE; PHOTO ILLUSTRATION 42

New Era I By EirikSterri Eirik Sterri lives in California, USA. livesinCalifornia, Sterri Eirik us the strength weus thestrength needtostay strongandavoid temptation. in totemptation. spiritual nourishmentIneededevery day, thenImay have given and went tochurch. Iknow thatifIhadn’tgiven myselfthe ple things. I readmyscriptures, saidmyprayers, went toMutual, Church, dating, sports, andfriends, Istucktotheplainandsim- the littlethings. Even asmylife gotvery busywithschool, family, I’d always heldmyselftotheChurchstandards. thing specialinyour life.” It was thenthatIrealizeditwas because stay away fromit, man?Whycan’tIbelike you? You have some- lives. Icouldn’tbelieve how badithadbecome. alcohol every weekend. Icouldseethemthrowing away their We didn’thave thesameinterestsanymore. They or useddrugs because I’d decidedIwould never dothat. the temptationandbegansmoking. Still, Ididn’tthinkmuchofit, skater smoked, itseemed. Myfreshmanyear, myfriendsgave into skaters we metallhadonething incommon:smoking. Every meeting manynew, different kindsofpeople. Unfortunately, the travelingstarted todifferent skate spotsandparks, andwe started pants, etc. Itwas awesome topursue. andareallyfunsport local skateshops, whichmeant we gotfreeskateboards, shirts, became fairlygood. We were abletoreceive sponsorshipsfrom who showed upattheskateparks. of thepeoplethere. Iwas honestly scaredofthekindspeople of theguysandsomegirlsIknew skatedonaregularbasis. friends. Skateboardingwas hugeatmyschoolinCalifornia. Most skateboardingintheseventh started withagroupofmy grade I know we must dothelittlethingsingospel. They willgive I owe myability toresistsmokingandtheothertemptations One Saturday morning, oneofthemasked me, “How didyou As timewent on, myrelationshipwithfriendsgrew weaker. As we gainedmoreconfidence inourskills,I myfriendsand But, else, aswithanything therewere temptations. As myfriendsandIcontinuedonour “skating careers,” we I was astreetskater. Ididn’tlike goingtoskateparksbecause NE

PHOTOGRAPH BY ISTOCKPHOTO/THINKSTOCK THE EXTRA SMILE

"Sure, I'd be willing to practice the law of consecration with the car . . . as soon as you start practicing it with the mortgage payment." "Didn't they write any hymns that are for just one finger?"

ARIE VAN DE GRAAFF

"Yes, it's a tablet, Grandpa. But, no, it's not made out of stone."

JON CLARK KEVIN BECKSTROM

VAL CHADWICK BAGLEY

November 2013 43 QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

“I am Turn to Your Parents I have also had to repent. Before I repenting repented, my friends all knew what was of a sin, going on, and I felt like other I was letting everyone down. My but family relationships were bad too. It helped to talk to my parents. They were upset, but they supported my people decision to change. I lost a lot of friends, but the ones I have now love me even though I made some bad gossip choices. It helps to pray to Heavenly Father. He knew what I was going about me. through and helped me through the trial. He will help anyone who asks It hurts a lot. for help. What do I do?” Allisyn G., 16, Utah, USA

Pray for Peace No matter what you f you’ve done all you can to repent of your mistake and do, you can’t control people still gossip about you, don’t make it harder on what other people say yourself by getting upset. Quietly show others that their about you. What you gossip is wrong by the way you live. can do is decide how Talking privately with close friends to share how you react. If you act like it doesn’t Iyou feel can be an opportunity to explain repentance and bother you, then maybe they will the Atonement. You can also explain that because you stop. Eventually the people gossiping regret what you did, you really are trying to change. The about you may forget that it even Atonement makes it possible for Jesus Christ to forgive you happened. Pray to Heavenly Father to and help you be better. If the people who are important help you feel peace when you hear to you understand, they will support you through difficult their comments and to not let them times and can help you when they hear others gossip. bother you. No matter what they say Don’t let another’s judgment keep you from making about you, remember that you are the changes you want to make or from letting yourself be doing what Heavenly Father wants happy right now. Pray for comfort and know that Heavenly you to. Whatever they say, this will Father is pleased with you for repenting. His opinion not change. matters most. NE Dallas C., 17, Nova Scotia, Canada

44 New Era Rise Above Listen to Your True Friends Don’t think any less of One thing you should do is ignore REPENTANCE BRINGS yourself because of the the gossip said about you. If it’s PEACE AND comments. God knows from people in school, then spend HAPPINESS you have the strength to more time with friends who don’t “Repentance always endure the ridicule and gossip about you. Your friends can means that there is move forward to better things. Now help you forget about anything greater happiness ahead. I bear witness all you have to do is be the person people are saying. that our Savior can deliver us from our sins. . . . I testify that His divine gift Heavenly Father knows you can be, Jarom S., 14, Arizona, USA removes guilt from our heart and brings and then rising above this trial will peace to our conscience.” become easier. Pray for Those Who Hurt You Elder Neil L. Andersen of the Quorum of Lacey J., 15, Nebraska, USA When you pray to the Lord as part the Twelve Apostles, “ ‘Repent . . . That I of your repentance, take extra time May Heal You,’” Ensign, Nov. 2009, 42–43. Keep Moving Forward to pray for those who gossip about You should persevere and finish you. Ask Heavenly Father to soften repenting because even if other their hearts, and ask for strength to people gossip, it is still more impor- overcome the gossip. tant to repent. If these people are Mary Jo T., 18, Ohio, USA your friends, they will respect you for persevering. Responses are intended for help and perspective, not as official pronouncements Ethan D., 15, Ohio, USA of Church doctrine.

Remember Forgiveness Is Real Just try to remember one thing: the Lord has forgiven you. The peo- ple gossiping about you may not have realized UPCOMING QUESTION that once you have repented, God will remember your sins no more Sometimes I feel Send your answer and photo by December 15, 2013. (see D&C 58:42). Even though those bored at church. Go to newera.lds​ ​.org and click “Submit Your Work.” around you may remember what you You can also write to us at did wrong, your Father in Heaven What can I do newera@ldschurch​ .org​ or New Era, Q&A, bored does not. 50 E. North Temple St., Rm. 2420 Joey S., 15, Virginia, USA to enjoy Salt Lake City, UT 84150-0024, USA going to church Responses may be edited for length or clarity. more?

November 2013 45 INSTANT MESSAGES

finished running the mile, I went back in less time, and we cheered him on MILE and ran with him until he was done. I every time he beat his personal best. MONDAYS was a little nervous because I wasn’t I’m glad we could boost his spirit sure what everyone would think, but I and help him do his best. It really n my gym class, we had to run the decided that what other people think brought our class closer together, mile every Monday. We called them shouldn’t matter that much. I was and we were all a little nicer to one “Mile Mondays.” Everyone dreaded surprised when more people joined me another. This experience helped me Ithem because they were exhausting. the next week. Every week, more remember that we are all God’s Each Monday, one classmate was people joined until eventually everyone children and of great worth, and always picked on because he was a in the class joined in! As we ran, we everyone needs to be treated that little overweight and always finished encouraged him by saying things like, way. I’m glad I decided to run a little the mile a few minutes after everyone “You can do it!” and “Only one more extra, and I know that Heavenly else. I felt bad for him and wanted to lap!” He began to smile while running, Father gave us all added strength help him out, but I wasn’t sure how. and people didn’t pick on him any- to help His children feel loved. One day I had an idea. After I more. Each week he finished the mile Taylor F., Washington, USA

46 New Era MY FIRST A WALLET TEMPLE TRIP IN FRANCE

was so excited! I had turned 12 y family was driving able to buy lots of neat things. about two weeks ago and had down a residential road I knew, however, that we should received my first temple rec- in France when my father be honest. My father drove to the Iommend on Sunday. My dad was Mthought he smelled something police station, and we turned the going to take me to the Spokane burning. We pulled over to the side wallet over to the police. I felt Washington Temple for the first time of the road and inspected the car. happy, and I know that honesty as a birthday present. We couldn’t find anything wrong is worth any cost. On the day of our trip, I was ready with the car, but we did find some- Camille F., France to go an hour early! I was just so thing else: a wallet on the side eager to go! We finally got into the car of the road with money in it! and listened to hymns on the trip My initial reaction there, which really brought in the was that I would be Spirit that day. My mom had prepared some family names for me and my dad to take to the temple. While I was entering the font I had expected this huge spiritual experience, but that didn’t happen. What did happen was that I was baptized for one of my deceased relatives, and I felt a still, small voice whisper to me, “You are doing the right thing.” On the way home I really EXTRA HELP IN SCHOOL thought about what had happened at ast year I was struggling in exams. I asked Heavenly Father to the temple. I realized I didn’t school and decided that I help me concentrate on my school- need the huge spiritual experience needed some additional help work and remember what I was I had been expecting. I was so Lbeyond tutoring and extra study— learning. By the end of the school glad I had the Holy Ghost with me I needed to include my Heavenly year, I’d dramatically increased my that day so that I could hear the Father in my study process. The grades. But even more important, still, small voice. lesson I learned from this decision I’d learned that I should turn to I’m so thankful for the temple and cannot be found in a textbook, but Heavenly Father more when I need all of its blessings! The temple has it’s something I’ll always be grateful help in any area of my life. He does brought me and my family great bless- I learned. hear our prayers, and especially ings, happiness, and experiences with I started to pray silently at school when we put forth the work, He the still, small voice. and vocally at night while doing will help us.

ILLUSTRATIONS BY DAN BURR ILLUSTRATIONS Alexis F., Washington, USA homework and preparing for Mike S., Utah, USA

November 2013 47 TO THE POINT

At what point or the Strength of Youth says, “As always feel that they can come to us do you end a Fyou seek to be a friend to others, for help and kindness when they need friendship with do not compromise your standards. it. But we might need to stop spend- someone who has If your friends urge you to do things ing time with people whose choices clearly chosen a that are wrong, be the one to stand have taken them so far from the path path you don’t for the right, even if you stand alone. of righteousness that they are con- with? You may need to find other friends stantly a bad influence and refuse to agree who will support you in keeping the receive any good influence from us or commandments. Seek the guidance anyone else. Through prayer, scripture of the Holy Ghost as you make these study, and counseling with parents choices” ([2011], 16–17). and leaders, you can be guided by the In a broad sense, we never really Holy Ghost in your decisions about end a friendship. People should your friends. NE

spouse becomes your soul mate, and Is there such a thing it is your duty and responsibility to as ? work every day to keep it that way” “soul mates” (“The Reflection in the Water” [Church Educational System fireside for young adults, Nov. 1, 2009]). he short answer is no, not really. Though you may have strong TEven though you may feel espe- feelings for someone, as a teenager cially connected to someone of the you’re not in a position to marry, so opposite sex right now, the true bond wondering if someone is your “soul between a man and woman comes mate” doesn’t make much sense— only after they’ve committed to marry and it shouldn’t be the focus of your one another and decided to work at it. adult courtship, either. In your youth, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Second focus on building good friendships Counselor in the First Presidency, has with many people. It’s natural to feel said, “I don’t believe there is only one especially close to someone because right person for you. I think I fell in they have interests or personality traits love with my wife, Harriet, from the that appeal to you, but be careful not first moment I saw her. Nevertheless, to let yourself get carried away by . . . I don’t believe she was my your feelings. Review the guidelines one chance at happiness in in the “Dating” section of For the this life, nor was I hers. . . . Strength of Youth ([2011], 4–5), and “. . . Once you commit pray and ponder about the purpose

to being married, your behind them. NE BY CHRISTINA SMITH PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

48 New Era The

P A N I O N S O M H I C of the P HolyHoly GhostGhost is not just a pleasant convenience—

it

isis essentialessential . S L P to your A I R V I T V I U A L S U R

Elder Adrián Ochoa of the Seventy, October 2013 general conference

New Era WHAT’S ONLINE

VIDEOS AND QUOTES MUSIC VIDEO: “IF WE FOR SOCIAL MEDIA FORGET OURSELVES”

Want to share a message from Youth around the world are fulfilling general conference with your friends their covenants to serve others in a on social media? You’ll find a short huge variety of ways. And their good message and a designed quote from works have been captured on camera. each member of the First Presidency See a music video highlighting their and the Quorum of the Twelve acts of service to others at lds.org/ Apostles at lds.org/go/113Share. go/113Serve. As one of the young Sharing the words of the Brethren men in the video testifies: Service is and Church leaders through social “what defines us as young men, to media is one easy way to help spread go out and look for people to serve, the gospel throughout the world. to be like Christ. It’s Besides conference quotes, you one of the greatest can also find other quotes to share attributes you can from the New Era’s Facebook page at have, to be like lds.org/go/NEFB. Jesus Christ.”

WAYS TO MAKE SEMINARY GREAT

Whether you attend seminary at home or in a Church building, before dawn or after, alone or with dozens of others, seminary can help change your life if you let it. Find eight great tips to help you make the most of your experience at lds.org/go/113Seminary.