Virtue

Today as I am preparing to attend the temple, I came across this excerpt from the new YW General President, regarding VIRTUE (Virtue is a new value recently added to the YW Motto).

“I truly believe that one virtuous young woman or young man, led by the Spirit, can change the world, but in order to do so, we must return to virtue. We must engage in strict training. As the marathon runner Juma Ikanga said after winning the New York Marathon, “The will to win is nothing without the will to prepare.” Now is the time to prepare by exercising more self-discipline. Now is the time to become “more fit for the kingdom.” Now is the time to set our course and focus on the finish. A return to virtue must begin individually in our hearts and in our homes.

What can each of us do to begin our return to virtue? The course and the training program will be unique to each of us. I have derived my personal training program from instructions found in the scriptures: “Let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly.” “Cleave unto [your] covenants.” “Stand . . . in holy places.” “Lay aside the things of [the] world.” “Believe that ye must repent.” “Always remember him and keep his commandments.” And “If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, . . . seek after these things.” Now more than ever before, it is time to respond to Moroni’s call to “awake, and arise” and to “lay hold upon every good gift, and touch not the evil gift, nor the unclean thing.”"

This message is a great motivation for me to stay focused on the progress of myself and my family. And as an advocate for women, I believe that a great tool we have to lead with is our femininity. We have the power to equally lead our family in the paths of righteousness. With our femininity we also have the power to persuade our husbands and community members to issues of importance. As women we have a voice and a recognized right to use it. We can and should take on the role of defenders of our lives, homes and communities. And with that righteous intent our Lord will always support us.

As a daughter of God my life does have meaning, purpose and value. I have clarity in this meaning at this time in my life. I have also lived past the times when my life was empty of all 3 and insufficiently balanced. Those were very very hard and dark times for me. I pray that life never drips that low again for me but I also have the security of knowing that my Heavenly Father will always help.

I also want my sisters to know that I empathies with all of your life experiences. You amaze me with your virtues. I am happy with our relationships and hope and pray for better tomorrows.

For my dad and brothers I want soooo much more for you. Your happiness starts with the decisions you make and the people you surround yourself by. Happiness is attractive. More positive opportunities will come your way.

For everyone else…. Good on ya’ mate.