Finding Happiness

When things get tough, you can still find happiness in moving forward with faith. In fact, faith can be the key you need to unlock the hope in your heart, the potential of every day to be a gift of goodness and happiness.

Richard G. Scott is a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church.) He often teaches on the principles of happiness. Mormon beliefs include the belief that God has created a plan of salvation for us and has provided us with the tools with need to reap happiness where we have sowed faith.

In the Ensign, a monthly Church magazine, Elder Scott wrote,

“God has given you the capacity to exercise faith so that you may find peace, joy, and purpose in life. However, to employ its power, faith must be rooted in something secure. There is no more solid foundation than faith in the love Heavenly Father has for you, faith in His plan of happiness, and faith in the willingness and power of Jesus Christ to fulfill all of His promises" (“Living Right,” Ensign, Jan 2007, 10–15.)

Elder Scott suggests some principles upon which our faith should be based. He says that we should trust in God and in His desire to provide help when we need it, no matter how difficult our circumstances may be. This means that though the way may seem dark, your situation hopeless, nothing is impossible for Him and He can and will bless you. “For with God nothing shall be impossible,” say the scriptures in Luke 1:37. The trick is, though that we must first trust. Proverbs 3:5-6 says “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Conversely, show your Heavenly Father that He can trust you, by being obedient to His commands and living a life worthy of His trust. Mormons have a another testament of Jesus Christ in the Book of Mormon. We believe that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God and that he restored the gospel of Jesus Christ by recovering the Book of Mormon from the dust and translating it with the help of the Spirit of Prophecy. We also believe that the Lord spoke through him, as He does today through our prophet and apostles. The Doctrine and Covenants is a collection of modern-day revelation, primarily those received by the Prophet Joseph. One such revelation reveals that “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise (D&C 82:10.)

Elder Scott also tells us that we must be sensitive to the quiet promptings of the Spirit and then follow through with courage. My husband and I desperately wanted children, but after several miscarriages and years of disappointment, we had pretty much given up hope. One day I received a call from a friend, telling me that a family member wanted to give her baby up for adoption and was willing to take her recommendation and give them baby to us if we wanted her.

For a brief moment I felt elated at the thought of becoming a mother to a sweet baby girl. Yet shortly after I heard a voice, as clear as day, tell me “This is not your blessing. It is for another.” I prayed and received confirmation that while I so desired to adopt this baby, she wasn’t meant for my family. I told a friend about the baby and she responded with tears and joy because this was an answer to her prayers too. She went on to adopt the little girl and they have been happy together ever since. However, for some time I felt so sad and sorry that I had made the choice I did. While my friends’ arms were full, mine were still empty. I knew I had done the right thing, yet I wondered where or when was my blessing. It seemed such a blessing would never come.

Several years later I was blessed in a way I could never have foreseen. I gave birth to twin boys, born hale and healthy. Now, had I not listened to the promptings of the Spirit when faced with the opportunity to adopt that little girl, and we had adopted her instead of my friend, not only would my friend have been denied the blessing of motherhood, but I would never have known the joy that is mine as mother to these two incredible little boys.

The Spirit whispered, and while it was hard, I listened and obeyed. With courage I followed through with the course of action I felt inspired to follow and my family and others have been blessed because of my actions. It took time to get to the ‘happy’, but oh it was worth it!

Elder Scott reminds us that we must be patient and understanding when God lets us struggle to grow and answers come little by little over an extended period of time. I was not always so patient and understanding when I was struggling to become a mother, but I can testify that the answers did come over time and in the end I could see why it was that things had to be as they were.

At the conclusion of his article, Elder Scott affirms that doing what is right will open far greater and more meaningful opportunities for you. He says,

“I testify that you will never go wrong when you trust in the Lord and in His promises, no matter how severe the challenge.
May the Lord strengthen your resolve, your exercise of faith, and your use of growing character so that you may be every bit the instrument for good that He desires. I testify that He lives. As you worthily seek His help, He will guide you in your life.”

I would like add my testimony to Elder Scott’s. Our Heavenly Father has an active interest in our lives and desires to bless us. Happiness goes hand in hand with faithfulness.

As I prepare to re-enter the workforce after over ten years of being at home to raise my children, I have cause to look back at the choice I have made and to wonder if I did the right thing. For me and my family, yes, I did. In fact, at the earliest possible moment, I will come back home because my children aren’t done with me yet!

I am sad to leave my children for this space of time, because I truly believe in what I was doing. Being a wife and a mother is the best job I could have ever trained for, aspired to, applied for and won. It’s not counted for much among the trend-setters of the world, popular opinion doesn’t think too highly of it. But motherhood, is a God-given opportunity.

The Mormons (members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints) teach that being a wife and mother are the greatest callings to which a woman should aspire. In a tribute to mothers on one occasion, David O. McKay, former President of the Church, said:

“She who can paint a masterpiece or write a book that will influence millions deserves the plaudits and admiration of mankind. But she who would willingly and anxiously rear successfully a family of beautiful healthy sons and daughters whose lives reflect the teachings of the gospel, deserves the highest honors that man can give, and the choicest blessings of God. In fact, in her high duty and service to humanity, endowing with mortality eternal spirits, she is a co-partner with the Great Creator himself” (Gospel Ideals, Salt Lake City: Improvement Era, 1953, pp. 453–54.)

What an amazing job description that is, and what woman wouldn’t want to receive such accolades? Too often we feel, as women, that we have to compete in the business world to gain respect or even self-worth. In reality, our greatest worth can be found at home, in the hearts and hands of our children.

Otelia Compton was granted an honorary doctorate of laws degree from Ohio’s historic Western College for Women. Honorary degrees are usually bestowed for achievement in the sciences or the arts, but Mrs. Compton, at age seventy-four, was awarded the LL.D. “for outstanding achievement as wife and mother of Comptons.”

Mrs. Compton had raised three sons who went on to join their father in receiving whole page dedications in Who’s Who in America. She, herself was a mid-western farm girl yet her influence on the men in her life cannot be denied. Her ancestry was from simple farm folk, but her achievements as a wife and mother brought her fame she did not seek.

In an interview, a reporter asked for her formula, and then recorded: “Her recipe is so old it is new, so orthodox it is radical, so commonplace that we have forgotten it and it startles us. ‘We used the Bible and common sense,’ she told me.”

The reporter made the assumption that her children must have done so well in their lives because of their superior heredity. However, Otelia Compton disagreed, she claimed the answer was the home.

“The tragedy of American life is that the home is becoming incidental at a time when it is needed as never before. Parents forget that neither school nor the world can reform the finished product of a bad home. They forget that their children are their first responsibility. Today servants are hired to take care of children. In my day, no matter how many servants a mother could afford, she took care of her children herself. The first thing parents must remember is that their children are not likely to be any better than they are themselves. Mothers and fathers who wrangle and dissipate need not be surprised if their observant young ones take after them.” (From Out of the Best Books, Bruce B. Clark and Robert K. Thomas, 5:198–202.)

As a woman, you do not need to look beyond your children’s upturned faces to find happiness. N. Eldon Tanner, in his talk “Happiness Is Home Centered,” (Ensign, Jun 1978, 2,) says:

"The happiest women I know are those whose families would rather be home than any place else; whose children come bounding in after school to look for Mother to tell her about their activities of the day; who share the sorrows and joys and successes of those children and rejoice in their accomplishments; who glow with pride as their children take their places of leadership in political, business, and community life; and eventually share their love with grandchildren, whose response opens up a whole new world of rewarding satisfaction."

“Children are an heritage of the Lord” (Psalms 127:3.) Wouldn’t you feel the greatest pride if you could claim that God Himself was your boss? Imagine you answer directly to Him in the rearing of your sweet children. The truth is, you do. And the benefits He provides for a job well done are a deep sense of self satisfaction and eternal happiness and joy.

It had not been my intent to write about the death of President Gordon B. Hinckley today. Much has already been written about this great man, that I didn't expect to have anything more of value to add. However, as I was researching another topic, I came upon a scripture that so summed up my feelings on President Hinckley's passing that it opened up to my eyes a whole new way in which Mormons are happy.

President Gordon B. Hinckley, has been the President and Prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church as it is commonly known,) for twelve years and has served in a leadership role in the Church for countless years. He is beloved by all. Yet, while the man will be missed, few express true sorrow at his passing. We are sad for ourselves, that our funny, loving, kind and courageous leader is gone from our lives, but we are not sad for him. We all expect that there was a joyous reunion in Heaven last night when Gordon B. Hinckley finally went home.

The scriptures are clear as to the state of happiness or misery of those who have departed this life. In revelation given through the Prophet Joseph Smith, the Lord says:

“Thou shalt live together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die, and more especially for those that have not hope of a glorious resurrection.
“And it shall come to pass that those that die in me shall not taste of death, for it shall be sweet unto them;
“And they that die not in me, wo unto them, for their death is bitter” (D&C 42:45-47.)

My mom died when I was nineteen years old. I remember distinctly when they wheeled her casket out to the waiting Hearst, I felt like my heart had been ripped out by a robber and he was getting away with it. I did not have hope that I would ever see her again.

Contrast those feelings with those I am experiencing now as I watch my mother-in-law slowly lose the fight with cancer. I know we will only be separated for a short time before we will be reunited again in the eternities. There, in heaven, all our loved ones will be waiting to embrace us, to welcome us home.

Mormon beliefs teach that this life is but a stepping stone to an eternal reward. Jesus said,
“In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” (John 14:2-3.)

Our relationship with Heavenly Father is that of children with a loving parent. Our time on earth has been an opportunity for us to learn and grow, to choose for ourselves, to love, to repent, to be forgiven and to forgive. To the extent that we have faith in Jesus Christ and are obedient to His teachings, our eternal reward will be determined.

For those faithful who pass through the vale from this life to the next, their death will be “sweet unto them” (D&C 42:45-47,) and they will be joyful in the presence of their loved ones and their God. Because my mom died without ever knowing the truth, I now know that she too would have been welcomed by loved ones and that though she was frightened to leave this earth, her joy is full there in the presence of God.

But for one like President Hinckley, and my mother-in-law in her simple, quiet way, who have been faithful and obedient in living the gospel of Jesus Christ, what joy their passing brings them! Free from the tethers of this mortal existence, they will have happiness and joy, eternally.

Which do you value more, a beat up old car or a pristine, new model? Do you enjoy getting that crisp new dollar bill over that old wrinkly, torn one? Can you appreciate the fresh cleanness of a country meadow right after a cleansing rain? Or do you prefer the stale recycled air of an office building? We are hard-wired to like the fresh, the new, the pristine, even in the mundane things of life. What even greater value, then, is a clean and pure spirit.

Satan is the great deceiver, liar, and enemy to all that is good, including our happiness and our well-being. Mormon beliefs teach that his great desire is to thwart our Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness and make us “miserable like unto himself” (2 Ne. 2:27.) Satan is adept at making things look fun and desirable, but his promises are as illusions. What he really offers are lies, misery, spiritual degradation, and loss of self-worth.

Among the things Satan tempts us with is to “Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die” (2 Ne. 28:7.) His invitation may seem enticing and convincing. Nephi, a Book of Mormon prophet, describes his sales techniques as pacifying, flattering, and lulling as he declares, “All is well” (2 Ne. 28:21-22.) Satan would have us embrace immorality in all its forms, including pornography, language, dress, and behavior. But such behavior brings emotional distress, loss of spirituality, loss of self-respect, and lost opportunities.

Our loving Heavenly Father has provided us with the ability to recognize Satan's deceit and thwart his efforts to ruin our souls. Paul taught: “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy” (1 Cor. 3:16-17.)

Heavenly Father asks that we return to Him with clean hands and pure hearts. Jacob warned the Nephites of old: “But, wo, wo, unto you that are not pure in heart, that are filthy this day before God” (Jacob 3:3.) Alma reminded his wayward son, Corianton, regarding sexual impurity: “Know ye not, my son, that these things are an abomination in the sight of the Lord?” (Alma 39:5.) And then further to Corianton, “Wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10.)

Desire to be that child of God that your Father in Heaven created you to be. Resolve to keep your spirit clean and pure. The worlds' modern-day prophet, the President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church), Gordon B. Hinckley, has said:

“Notwithstanding the so-called ‘new morality,’ notwithstanding the much-discussed changes in moral standards, there is no adequate substitute for virtue. God’s standards may be challenged everywhere throughout the world, but God has not abrogated his commandments” (“With All Thy Getting Get Understanding,” Ensign, Aug. 1988, 4.)

Because of our heavenly lineage, we are royalty. You and I have the potential to inherit the Kingdom of God (1 Cor. 6:9.) We have the power to discern between Satan's lies and God's true principles of happiness. Richard C. Edgley, says in his article “Satan’s Bag of Snipes” (Liahona, Jan 2001, 52–53:)

“Because we know who we are and because we are endowed with the Holy Spirit and empowered with His priesthood, we have the power to just say no. “No, Satan, I will not be a victim of your deceitful, vicious, and often deadly snipe hunt.” I testify that “wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10) and wickedness never will be happiness. I further testify that happiness and self-worth will come only from living the principles of Him who created the plan of happiness.”

Believe in yourself and in who you are. You are a child of God. Live so you are worthy of every great blessing that your Father has in store for you. Be clean and pure, fresh and pristine, and happiness will not only be yours in this life, but in the eternal life to come (The Living Christ.)

In the Book of Luke in the New Testament, the angel told Mary “For with God nothing shall be impossible” (Luke 1:37.) Lately, I have heard a lot about the idea of 'expectation.' This theory purports that if we go about expecting good things to happen to us, they will happen to us. I believe such an idea is true, but not because fate or some other ethereal law is at play. I believe when we have faith in God, and we are doing those things that would make us worthy of His blessings, we can expect that He can and will bless us.

Mormon beliefs support that our founding Prophet often received revelation and guidance from Jesus Christ Himself, because The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is His restored gospel. In 1837 the Lord Jesus Christ counseled us to “Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers” (D&C 112:10.)

From the New Testament, James instructed us:

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
“But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering” (James 1:5-6.)

In the Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ, we read, “And Christ hath said: If ye will have faith in me ye shall have power to do whatsoever thing is expedient in me” (Moroni 7:33.)

The scriptures are replete with many references to the promises our Savior and Heavenly Father have made to us to freely bless us when we are faithful to Their commandments. Elder Richard G. Scott taught: “You will gather the fruits of faith as you follow the principles God has established for its use.” One of those principles is to “trust in God and in His willingness to provide help when needed, no matter how challenging the circumstance” (“The Sustaining Power of Faith in Times of Uncertainty and Testing,” Ensign, May 2003, 76.)

If your faith has been lacking and you haven't been reaching out to your Father in prayer, today is a good day to start. You won't be punished for staying away. Your Heavenly Father loves you. He wants to hear your prayers. He wants to bless you (D&C 76:5.)

President Thomas S. Monson has encouraged us:

“As we offer unto the Lord our family and our personal prayers, let us do so with faith and trust in him. … If any of us has been slow to hearken to the counsel to pray always, there is no finer hour to begin than now” (In Conference Report, Apr. 1964, 130; or Improvement Era, June 1964, 509.)

Have faith that happiness can be yours ... if you will only ask for it.

Do you know why I write for this blog? I think it's because Heavenly Father knew I would need a daily, constant, reminder of how to be happy because a lot of trials would be coming my way. I don't want to bore you with my troubles. I hope you will take my hand and walk with me on this journey, in our mutual quest for happiness.

Today I had the opportunity to serve with the young women of our Stake, which is a large group of members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons). All I knew of the event was that we would be “helping young women in Africa” and that as secretary in the Young Women auxiliary of my local branch of the Church, I was pretty much expected to be there. Mormon beliefs teach that because we are all spirit children of a Heavenly Father, we have a duty and obligation to serve our brothers and sisters here on earth. But because my own problems seemed so overwhelming, I found it hard to be there, to smile and appear happy for the girls. I felt like my world was falling apart, so I had determined to leave at my earliest convenience.

Our leader announced the service project and what it entailed. We would be making reusable sanitary napkins for the young women in a small village in Kenya. The girls in this village cannot afford to buy such necessities and as a result they are not able to attend school for up to a week during their monthly cycle. After six months or so many of the girls stop returning to school because the accumulated time lost is just too much and they fall too far behind their peers. As I listened to the description of their need, tears filled my eyes and the Spirit reminded me that I have yet so much for which to be thankful. My heart opened to the gentle promptings of the Spirit and my countenance changed. I now felt glad to be there and happy for the opportunity to bless the young women of Kenya in such a personal and valuable way.

President Kimball, a former leader and prophet for the Church, said:

“God does notice us, and He watches over us. But it is usually through another mortal that He meets our needs. Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other” (The Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, ed. Edward L. Kimball [1982], 252.)

Giving service willingly is a key to enduring happiness. I know that I was blessed for this opportunity to step outside of myself for a couple hours and strive to help meet the needs of another who I will never know. Her life though, will be slightly better because of the time and effort I gave today. Knowing that, I am happy!

Sometimes life throws us a curve ball or two. How we choose to respond to such occasions can dictate the outcome of our efforts, and most certainly our happiness (or lack thereof) in getting there.

J.C. Maxwell wrote, in "Attitude 101: What every leader needs to know" (Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers,) that "often our attitude is the only difference between success and failure." He also states that "our attitude at the beginning of a task will affect it's outcome more than anything else."

In his article "Service and Happiness," Jacob de Jager of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church) wrote about his ideas on how to maintain a cheerful disposition throughout life's ups and downs.

He says you must learn to be satisfied because, "it is just as easy as being dissatisfied - and much more pleasant." Have you ever met someone who just seems happy all the time and for a moment you were tricked into believing (or maybe you did believe it!) that the person never had any trouble in his or her life? Then you found out that in truth the person was struggling with trials of their own and yet you never knew it - because they had seemed so happy. Do you think that person's trials were any less significant than another's? And yet who do you think suffered more, the person with the bad atttitude, or the person with the happy attitude? I'd say the person with the happier attitude will come through their trials better off than the person with the bad attitude. I have a neighbor who, when asked how he is, always replies "Never been better!" It took me a long time to realize he was not always so happy or life really wasn't always better than ever. But he was so much more pleasant to be around because he gave the 'never been better' impression. I want to be like him.

de Jager also says that we must learn to accept adversity. "No matter who you are or where you serve, you are going to have some. But do not fear the winds of adversity. Remember, a kite rises against the wind, rather than with it!" From the moment we stood to take our first steps and fell flat on our face, adversity has been a part of our lives. Just like when we were children we must learn to get up again, try again.

Get into the habit of saying pleasant things rather than making negative remarks. Like my friend and his 'never been better,' you can brighten the world around you with your attitude and the words you choose to use.

de Jager also recommends that you "live the present moment to the hilt, and do not live in the past or in the future. Success is a journey, not a destination." If you wait for that better day to play with your children, or to finally relax, you may find yourself old and gray with precious few happy memories to sustain you. Just as they say not to put off till tomorrow what you can do today, why also put off your own happiness?

Elder David B. Haight of the Council of the Twelve said

"People grow old only by deserting their ideals, their faith. There is always the love of wonder, a childlike appetite for what is next, and the joy of your life. You are as young as your faith, as old as your doubt; as young as your self-confidence, as old as your fear or despair.

“In the center of our heart is a recording chamber, and so long as it receives messages of beauty, hope, cheer, courage, and faith, so long are we young” (Ensign, Nov. 1983, p. 25.)

That is a wonderful quote I think I'll have to stick up on my fridge. I want to remember it and apply it my life. I hope you will feel the same way. I hope that you will find the courage and the strength to face your challenges head on with a happy attitude and a cheerful disposition and with that happy attitude achieve the success you deserve.

Home can be a heav’n on earth
When we are filled with love,
Bringing happiness and joy,
Rich blessings from above—
Warmth and kindness, charity,
Safety and security—
Making home a part of heaven,
Where we want to be.

It's particularly during times of trial or hardship that our families can be of the greatest source of comfort and security. If we work hard to develop that kind of family life, the happiness it can afford us can seem almost limitless – a true heaven on earth.

Drawing fam’ly near each week,
We’ll keep love burning bright.
Serving Him with cheerful hearts,
We’ll grow in truth and light.
Parents teach and lead the way,
Children honor and obey,
Reaching for our home in heaven,
Where we want to stay.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons) are encouraged to observe weekly Family Home Evenings with their families. Family Home Evenings are an opportunity to teach our children about Heavenly Father, Jesus and the teachings of the gospel. They are also a great time to play games, get to know each other and express our love for one another. In his article “Happiness is Homemade,” (Ensign, Nov 1990, 12,) LeGrand R. Curtis wrote,

“The kitchen table can provide a place for many valuable lessons and warm communications. We should not only partake of good food, but of love and friendship. Scriptures could be read around the kitchen table, and mothers and fathers could explain the teachings of the prophets. Nephi said, “For my soul delighteth in the scriptures, and my heart pondereth them, and writeth them for the learning and the profit of my children.” (2 Ne. 4:15.) As we reflect on our years of rearing children, we can see how we and our loved ones have always needed the scriptures. What better could we discuss with our children than the scriptures and our love for them?

Children need to know that their parents love them enough to teach them the gospel. Monday evenings can be made special by family home evening—by the love present, and by music, games, and valuable learning moments. We have found that the child who is rolling on the floor during family home evening listens and learns more than we think possible.”

Sometimes it seems like just one more thing to plan and prepare, but I am never sorry when I have taken the time to observe Family Home Evening in my home. We never have very fancy ones but it's always fun and sometimes we have those wonderful tender moments that make all the hard work worth it.

Praying daily in our home,
We’ll feel His love divine;
Searching scriptures faithfully,
We’ll nourish heart and mind.
Singing hymns of thanks, we’ll say,
“Father, help us find the way
Leading to our home in heaven,
Where we long to stay.
(LDS Hymns #298)

Mormon beliefs teach that ancient peoples lived in North America and received revelation from God. They wrote their teachings on a collection of brass plates which Joseph Smith was directed to find and translate. Those teachings are available today in the Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ. In the Book of Mormon we read, “Therefore we did pour out our souls in prayer to God, that he would strengthen us and deliver us out of the hands of our enemies, yea, and also give us strength that we might retain our cities, and our lands, and our possessions, for the support of our people,” (Alma 58:10.) Every family today needs the added strength that the Lord can provide. Find it for yourself and for your loved ones on your knees.

Every home can be a heaven on earth, even in a world where trials abound; especially in such a world. You don't need much to get started, so don't put it off even another day. Make time for your family, to enjoy those activities that make your children smile. Take the time to teach them of God and your love for Him. Read scriptures with them. Pray with them. Doing such things will demonstrate your love for your family and filled with such love, your home will feel like heaven.

Did you know that singing every day can help you feel happy? Mormons know it! Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons, as they are commonly known) have long known that “the song of the righteous is a prayer unto me (God), and it shall be answered with a blessing upon their heads” (Doctrine & Covenants 25:11-12.)

An early order of business for the Mormon Church was the collection of hymns to be used in our worship. In Mormon beliefs, God speaks today through His duly appointed Prophet. When the Church was newly formed, The Lord instructed Emma Smith, through the Prophet Joseph, to “make a selection of sacred hymns, as it shall be given thee, which is pleasing unto me, to be had in my church. For my soul delighteth in the song of the heart” (Doctrine & Covenants 25:11-12.) The Lord also spoke through the prophet Brigham Young, saying: “If thou art merry, praise the Lord with singing, with music, with dancing, and with a prayer of praise and thanksgiving.” (Doctrine & Covenants 136:28.) To that I would add that when you are sad, and you find it difficult to pray, a song or a hymn can help make the distance between you and your Heavenly Father very small.

When I am having a hard time finding the words to say what is in my heart, my favorite hymn to sing is “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” by Robert Robinson and John Wyeth which says in part:

O to grace how great a debtor
Daily I’m constrained to be!
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to Thee.
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here’s my heart, O take and seal it,
Seal it for Thy courts above.

Or, when you're finding yourself tempted to say or do the wrong thing, you could sing this children's hymn to yourself:

If on occasion you have found
Your language is in question,
Or ugly thoughts come to your mind,
Then here’s a good suggestion.
Just hum your favorite hymn,
Sing out with vigor and vim,
And you will find it clears your mind.
Hum your favorite hymn.
Before you say an angry word,
Remember you’ll regret it,
For once it’s said the harm is done,
And some folks won’t forget it.
(Children's Songbook #152)

“O sing unto the Lord a new song; … make a joyful noise unto the Lord. …” (Psalms 98:1,4.) I am confident that as you and I lift up our voices in song, our hearts and our moods will be lifted. We shall be as the watchmen of Zion ... “with the voice together shall they sing: … break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem: for the Lord hath comforted his people. …” (Isaiah 52:8-9.)

I'm writing today from a hospital room. My husband is here, being tested and prodded and possibly prepared for heart surgery. Possibly not, too, as anything could happen at this point. Nevertheless, it has been stressful and upsetting to say the least. This is not the first time we have been through something like this. Four years ago David nearly died from an aortic aneurysm. He had open heart surgery to replace his aortic valve and repair his ascending and descending aortic route. The surgery was successful and so we went on with our lives expecting he would now live a long and healthy one. However, he we are again facing the possibility of something similar to what we experienced before.

This sort of trial or challenge is not unknown to many of you. Too many of us struggle daily with challenges that lay far outside of our control. What we can control, however, is how we choose to respond to life's challenges. Will we stand tall, brace our shoulders and face the storm? Or will we crumble and fall when the winds blow?

There's no question that life would be easier without the many trials that beset us in the course of our lives. Without them, though, how would we grow? A child doesn't learn to walk until they have fallen down many times. We wouldn't even dream of forbidding them to try (knowing they will fall) because without the falling – and more particularly, the getting up again – our children would never learn to walk. Trials are an important and useful fact of life. How we choose to face those trials is what determines if we will stand strong or crumble and fall.

Our trials can remind us that we cannot stand alone, that we need the Lord's help. They humble us and help us to grow spiritually. Eve recognized that “Were it not for our transgression we never should have ... known good and evil, and the joy of our redemption, and the eternal life which God giveth unto all the obedient.” (Moses 5:11.)

Choose to see how you can learn from your trials by staying close to the Lord through your faithfulness and prayers. He will comfort you and help you meet your challenges.

In Mormon beliefs, the Book of Mormon is another testament of Jesus Christ and teaches us many profound truths that help us with our daily lives. The Book of Mormon tells of two peoples, the Nephits and the Lamanites who were constantly at war with one another. After a particularly long war, the scriptures record how the Nephites and Lamanites were affected differently by their long struggles: “Many had become hardened, because of the exceedingly great length of the war; and many were softened because of their afflictions, insomuch that they did humble themselves before God, even in the depth of humility” (Alma 62:41.) All were affected by the war, but not all of them chose to learn and grow from it.

The Savior has already suffered your trials, including your pains, sicknesses, temptations and weaknesses, and He is perfectly compassionate and able to help (see Alma 7:11-12.) In your trials remember He said: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28.)

President Thomas S. Monson, First Counselor in the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church) said, “When the burdens of life become heavy, when trials test one’s faith, when pain, sorrow, and despair cause the light of hope to flicker and burn low, communication with our Heavenly Father provides peace.” (“Finishers Wanted,”Ensign, June 1989, 5.)

I will try to remember that for myself as I face this trial with my husband. Though I may sit here, alone, while David sleeps, wondering what may lay ahead for us, I am, in fact, never alone. The matchless comfort of my Savior is only a prayer away.

In April of 2000 the Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church) published a declaration of the reality of The Living Christ – their testimony of Jesus Christ. Recently I took up the challenge to memorize this document, and in doing so, I have learned the truth of our search for happiness.

The Living Christ, the Testimony of the Twelve Apostles, says, “He taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal existence, the purpose of our life on earth, and potential for the sons and daughters of God in the life to come.”

Joseph Smith, the prophet who ushered in the “dispensation of the fullness of times” (Ephesians 1:10) by translating and publishing The Book of Mormon, said, “Happiness is the object and design of our existence; and will be the end thereof, if we pursue the path that leads to it” and the Testimony goes on to say that “[Jesus'] way is the path that leads to happiness in this life ...”

“His message was a gospel of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow Him. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing the sick, causing the blind to see, and raising the dead.” We cannot raise the dead, but we can follow Jesus in every other way that matters. This, then, is our path to happiness. Service of our fellowmen and striving for an attitude of peace and goodwill.

I add my testimony to that of the Apostles, that I know Jesus is the Christ and that He lives. I know that if we will follow Him, learn of Him and take up his yoke, which burden is light (Matt 11:29-30) that we can find happiness in this life and “eternal life in the world to come.” (The Living Christ.)

I've enclosed The Living Christ in it's entirety; I ask that you read it and see if you too, can join with the Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in declaring that “Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God.”

The Living Christ
The Testimony of the Apostles
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
"The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints," Ensign, Apr. 2000, 2

As we commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ two millennia ago, we offer our testimony of the reality of His matchless life and the infinite virtue of His great atoning sacrifice. None other has had so profound an influence upon all who have lived and will yet live upon the earth.

He was the Great Jehovah of the Old Testament, the Messiah of the New. Under the direction of His Father, He was the creator of the earth. "All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made" (John 1:3.) Though sinless, He was baptized to fulfill all righteousness. He "went about doing good" (Acts 10:38.), yet was despised for it. His gospel was a message of peace and goodwill. He entreated all to follow His example. He walked the roads of Palestine, healing the sick, causing the blind to see, and raising the dead. He taught the truths of eternity, the reality of our premortal existence, the purpose of our life on earth, and the potential for the sons and daughters of God in the life to come.

He instituted the sacrament as a reminder of His great atoning sacrifice. He was arrested and condemned on spurious charges, convicted to satisfy a mob, and sentenced to die on Calvary's cross. He gave His life to atone for the sins of all mankind. His was a great vicarious gift in behalf of all who would ever live upon the earth.

We solemnly testify that His life, which is central to all human history, neither began in Bethlehem nor concluded on Calvary. He was the Firstborn of the Father, the Only Begotten Son in the flesh, the Redeemer of the world.

He rose from the grave to "become the firstfruits of them that slept" (1 Cor. 15:20.) As Risen Lord, He visited among those He had loved in life. He also ministered among His "other sheep" (John 10:16.) in ancient America. In the modern world, He and His Father appeared to the boy Joseph Smith, ushering in the long-promised "dispensation of the fulness of times" (Eph. 1:10.)

Of the Living Christ, the Prophet Joseph wrote: "His eyes were as a flame of fire; the hair of his head was white like the pure snow; his countenance shone above the brightness of the sun; and his voice was as the sound of the rushing of great waters, even the voice of Jehovah, saying:

"I am the first and the last; I am he who liveth, I am he who was slain; I am your advocate with the Father" (D&C 110:3-4.)

Of Him the Prophet also declared: "And now, after the many testimonies which have been given of him, this is the testimony, last of all, which we give of him: That he lives!
"For we saw him, even on the right hand of God; and we heard the voice bearing record that he is the Only Begotten of the Father —

"That by him, and through him, and of him, the worlds are and were created, and the inhabitants thereof are begotten sons and daughters unto God" (D&C 76:22-24.)

We declare in words of solemnity that His priesthood and His Church have been restored upon the earth—"built upon the foundation of ... apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone" (Eph. 2:20.)

We testify that He will someday return to earth. "And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together" (Isa. 40:5.) He will rule as King of Kings and reign as Lord of Lords, and every knee shall bend and every tongue shall speak in worship before Him. Each of us will stand to be judged of Him according to our works and the desires of our hearts.

We bear testimony, as His duly ordained Apostles—that Jesus is the Living Christ, the immortal Son of God. He is the great King Immanuel, who stands today on the right hand of His Father. He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come. God be thanked for the matchless gift of His divine Son.

It's been about a week since I last wrote on this topic and when I last wrote we talked about the importance of being kind to ourselves, forgiving our shortcomings and celebrating the small progress we make. Now that a week has passed and New Year resolutions are perhaps being kept, perhaps long forgotten, I wonder where you are on the happiness scale.

Have you failed to meet your goals and therefore you're beating yourself up? The long year is stretched out before you and you're thinking it's already a lost cause? I'd like to offer you some cheer and some encouragement. Don't despair! This is a new day and your opportunities for success – and happiness and joy – lay stretched out before you like a fresh fallen field of snow.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church) benefits from living prophets that receive revelation, even today, on our behalf. Mormons believe their day-to-day lives can be improved by “listening to a prophet's voice” and following the words of God. We have additional scripture, called the Doctrine and Covenants which chronicle some of the revelation that has been received in this, the “last dispensation of the fullness of times.” (Ephesians 1:10.)

The Doctrine and Covenants, shows us a path that we can follow to find the courage the strength to try again. In Doctrine and Covenants 88:118 we read, “And as all have not faith, seek ye diligently and teach one another words of wisdom; yea, seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learning, even by study and also by faith.” Don't be afraid to ask for help if your own knowledge falls short. Nor deny another the opportunity to learn from you.

“Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God;” (D&C 88:119.) Discover what is needed to accomplish your goals, and then make sure you have it, can find it, and can use it.

“See that ye love one another; cease to be covetous;” (D&C 88:123.) Don't begrudge another for the success they enjoy. Love them, and strive to learn from them. You, too, could benefit from their expertise.

Then ... get to work. The scriptures go on to say “[c]ease to be idle;” (D&C 88:124.) You have now learned what you need to do, prepared yourself and prepared your attitude so that you will see the good in others and not just despise them for their achievements. This same scripture says “cease to find fault one with another,” but I would like to encourage you to include yourself in that equation. Not only cease to find faults with others, but stop finding fault with yourself as well. I would argue that over and above everything else, that is the single most useful thing that will aid you in reaching your goals.

Not only because you'll feel happier when you're not beating yourself up over every little thing, but also because when you are more kind to yourself, you will be more kind to others as well. The Golden Rule reminds us to “do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” and the Book of Mormon confirms that “... all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.” (3 Nephi 14:12.) However, I would suggest that oftentimes it's ourselves we have the most difficult time being kind to, loving, and forgiving.

Apply the Golden Rule to yourself. Do to yourself as you wish others would do to you. Find those who have what you need to learn, then learn it. Prepare yourself to succeed by organizing every thing. Be kind to others and don't covet what they have or the success they enjoy. Work hard to achieve your goal. Believe in yourself.

Today is a new day. If the year has already fallen short of your expectations, try, try again. It is not too late to begin again.

Many a movie's happy ending includes a man and a woman living happily every after. The desire of our hearts to find a companion we can share our lives with, even forever with, is a God-given desire. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church,) teaches that not only can we find the love of our life here on earth, but we can spend eternity in the happy family bonds we build. In Mormon beliefs, the family can be forever. In 1995 the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church issued “The Family: A Proclamation to the World” which teaches us:

“... that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.”

The First Presidency goes on to say:

“Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.

“We warn that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.”

This proclamation lays out the path we should follow in order to find our happily ever after. And the path to happiness is made easier when we can do it with hands firmly grasped. No one likes to go through life alone and alone is not how we're meant to do it. You, too, can have your happy ending if you keep your heart and hands clean, and go forward in faith. In his talk “Happy Endings,” (New Era, Oct 1999, 44,) Bruce C. Hafen, a leader in the Church says:

“The longing of the human heart for this fullness is a source of great power, even—especially—on those cloudy days, or years, when your dreams seem impossible. Your longing to belong forever to a loving family comes from God, and He has promised its fulfillment to the faithful: “For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness” (Ps. 107:9.) You can live happily ever after, for the Lord God has spoken it.”

Elder Hafen tells the story of a group of young women who were growing up in a small town where the prospects of finding a good husband were slim. Their Church leader encouraged them to pray earnestly for their future companion, who was alive somewhere, and to keep themselves worthy of that companion in the meantime. Through diligent obedience to their teachers' council, all six girls found, and were worthy of, the men of their dreams.

Cultivate the image in your mind of a happy union between yourself and the person of your dreams. The person need not be perfect, but the union can be, through obedience to the commandments of God and the council of His prophets. Follow the example of Viktor Frankl, who found the strength to survive the agonies of a Nazi concentration camp by clinging to an image of his wife in his mind's eye. This experience prompted Frankl to declare: “The salvation of man is through love.” and, “He who has a why to live can bear with almost any how” (Man’s Search for Meaning, 1984, 56–57, 12.)

“The Family: A Proclamation to the World” can aid you in your quest to find your own happy ending. I encourage you to read it and to apply it to your own life.