:: Being Mormon ::

Elder David R. Stone
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How many of  our standards and morals are manipulated by our culture? Are we puppets to Hollywood and other popular media and cultural factors?
We must recognize the distinction between cultural norms and moral laws, and not confuse one for the other. Society would tell us how to dress, work, and live. Society would actually love to dictate every aspect of our lives. But we must give preference to the instructions that come from the Lord.

Elder Robert S. Wood
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Emotional reactions rather than thoughtful responses seem to be the norm today. Giving and taking offense appear to be deliberate acts. As church members — members of a covenant with Jesus Christ — we must rise above the casual darkness that can pervade much of interaction with others.

We must search for common ground and strive to build positive relationships with even those with whom we disagree. We need to “elevate our guns a little lower.” We must not make charicatures of the beliefs or values of others. Straw man arguments are unjust and unworthy of any church member.

Mockery and contempt are the tools of those who reside in the ‘great and spacious building’ — they should never be tools of a true seeker of truth. Cynicism allows us to dismiss an entire argument by finding a single flaw in it; this too leads us to reject truth and cause more hurt.

Political differences never justify hatred or ill will. Never allow differences in loyalties to lead to personal antagonism.

Elder H.Bruce Stucki
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Ask in faith. Prayer is a real vehicle for communication with God.

Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin
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Snowman, the jumping horse, was old and broken-down when he was finally purchased by someone who recognized his potential. Entered into a competition, the horse was laughed at by other jockeys and owners. He was ugly and funny-looking. But Snowman could jump. And win.

Within a year, he was recognized as a true champion.

People are similar — we often have tremendous potential, but we don’t often recognize it. Happiness comes from recognizing our interal potential and character. From finding the qualities that turn ordinary life into a joyful, rich existence.

1.Drink deeply from living water — the Gospel is given to us to make us happy, not fill our lives with mourning and sorrow; we are to be filled with purpose and drive and to take full advantage of the great opportunities that are around us

2. Fill your heart with love — give service motivated by love, share blessings abundantly, avoid selfishness and give frequently, maintain connections with others
3. With the help of Heavenly Father, make a masterpiece of your life — live up to the potential and plans that God has for you

President Gordon B. Hinckley
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“May heaven’s blessings rest upon you, I pray.”

The end. Ten hours of Conference. That’s like a Lord of the Rings marathon!