In 2011, Thomas S. Monson counseled us all to “dare to stand alone.” What can we learn from his words 15 years later? My high school in San Diego, California, had nearly two thousand students. Around 15 of those were members of the Church, including my brothers and me. Throughout… Continue reading
What does the gospel of Jesus Christ teach us about our life’s purpose and eternal destiny? Familial bonds don’t end with mortality. There are millions of pop culture portrayals of the afterlife and speculations about what it’s like. For instance, I recently watched a movie with a depiction of an… Continue reading
We can easily fall prey to imposter syndrome, but Christ can show us that perfection is more than we think. Starting a new job, going to a new school, or even returning to daily life after a vacation can make someone feel like an imposter in their own life. Personally,… Continue reading
Though sometimes it may feel impossible to continue on, we can never be so broken that the Lord can’t make us whole again. In times of trial and affliction, it can feel as if there is no end in sight. For those who suffer from mental illness, the struggles can… Continue reading
How can we overcome our fear of the future and avoid looking longingly at the past? Elder Jeffrey R. Holland implores us to “Remember Lot’s Wife,” to avoid looking back, and to instead look toward the future with faith in the Lord. In a Brigham Young University devotional, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland… Continue reading
We can increase our personal happiness today by taking the needed steps to become more holy. “Keeping the commandments makes you happier.” At times, this may feel like a line said by well-meaning parents and leaders simply because they want us to improve our behavior. In fact, we may think… Continue reading
Healing is possible for all people and all problems through courage, action, and the Savior’s grace. In a world of ever-increasing suffering, many of us find ourselves searching for relief. Some feel marginalized as we struggle to overcome challenges that may be considered uncommon, extreme, or even taboo. For example,… Continue reading
Remembering that the atonement covers all trials can help us feel God’s love during hard times. In his October 2008 General Conference talk, “Hope Ya Know, We Had a Hard Time,” Elder Quentin L. Cook shares the following story: After he and some of his children experienced a harrowing car… Continue reading
In a time of great personal trial, I followed a prompting that allowed me to help God help me. When I was younger, I tried to find peace and happiness in every way but the right way; that is to say, God’s way. I ended up suffering from addiction, as… Continue reading
“We make countless choices in life, some large and some seemingly small. Looking back, we can see what a great difference some of our choices made in our lives.” —President Dallin H. Oaks There were three paths at the top of the mountain. We went straight instead of left without… Continue reading
