Finding Happiness

In the Book of Exodus, God gave Moses ten commandments, detailing the least that is required of us to be worthy of our place in Heaven. The seventh commandment might appear to us to be out dated—out of touch the reality of modern day life.

The seventh commandment is the law of chastity. That commandments teaches that we must practice chastity before marriage and fidelity afterward. However, we have all heard renowned modern-day psychologists say that such old fashioned standards as chastity, virtue and marriage aren’t relevant today and that it’s impossible to live up to such standards

Don’t believe it.

The value of virtue and chastity are perhaps more relevant today than they have ever been. In his talk, “What Is Real Love and Happiness?,” Neal A. Maxwell of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) taught six ways that being chaste in todays world can bring you closer to happiness in this and in the world to come (New Era, Jun 1992, 4.)

1. When you choose to follow the Lords’ commandments, you will be in harmony with Him. Your relationship with Him will be preserved and enriched, helping you to retain his Spirit.

When your thoughts are virtuous, your confidence will “wax strong in the presence of God” (D&C 121:45.)

2. You will discover and retain the blessing of deserved self-esteem. By understanding your own worth, you will be able to truly love your neighbor. “Let every man esteem his brother as himself” (D&C 38:24.)

3. Sin deadens our senses. In these last days, the capacity of man to love will “wax cold” because of iniquity (see Matt. 24:12.)

4. You will be free from the heavy burden of guilt. “Despair cometh because of iniquity” (Moro. 10:22.) Free from guilt, you are not turned inward with self-pity.

5. You will be kept from a very real harm. Reports indicate that “as many as 43 million Americans may have acquired incurable sexually transmitted viral infections” (Deseret News, 7 Oct. 1991, p. 7A).

Such diseases, including AIDS, make clear medically what has always been clear spiritually: the only safe pattern of physical affection is within the bounds of marriage—especially a marriage of two consistent commandment keepers. Abstinence from sin is better than moderation or even repentance. Prevention is better than any cure!

6. You will develop a personal wholeness and serenity, which will greatly bless you in both courtship and marriage and in all of your life. The one you choose to love will be respected by you as an individual and not merely as an object of physical attraction and gratification. Your relationship can be as deep, rich, and broad as eternity.

I can truly testify, from my own personal experience, that “despair cometh because of iniquity” (Moro. 10:22.) There is no downside to choosing the right.

Choose the right, keep yourself clean. The Book of Mormon tells of a people who all strove to stay clean before God: “And surely there could not be a happier people among all the people who had been created by the hand of God” (4 Ne. 1:16.)

I pray that you and I can also be examples of righteous living and in doing so, obtain a happiness that fills our hearts, now and forever.

Joseph Smith, founder and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) said that, “happiness is the object and design of our existence.” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 255.)

But if God truly loves us and wants us to be happy, why does so much unhappiness and misery happen every day throughout the world?

That question is perhaps the singlemost challenging hurdle in the path of an individuals’ journey of faith. Many good people have fallen trying to cross it, never to get up again, but to give up the journey. Some turn to atheism, choosing to believe there is no God, rather than to accept that He would allow harm to come to one of His children. Others, harden their hearts against God, and give in to hate and anger.

Some of our suffering is our own doing. Incorrect choices, sin have the consequence of unhappiness, and sometimes pain. But much suffering is simply a natural extension of our mortal condition—like an accident, it is not caused by anyone, it only happens because we live in an imperfect world.

There was a time when our Father Adam and Mother Eve had been offered a perfect world where there would never be any suffering. No pain, no misery, no accidents.

However, Lehi, a Book of Mormon prophet explained that if Adam and Eve had not gone through the process we call the Fall, they would have remained forever in their initial state of innocence, “having no joy, for they knew no misery; doing no good, for they knew no sin” (2 Ne. 2:23.)

That might sound pretty good, but if they had remained in that state of innocence, we would not have come to exist. Even if we had, we would not know the good from the bad, we would have no way of knowing that we were happy—we would simply be.

Dallin H. Oaks, member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, taught:

“Our first parents recognized this principle. When the Holy Ghost fell upon them and bore record of the Father and the Son, Adam blessed the name of the Lord, declaring that “because of my transgression my eyes are opened, and in this life I shall have joy” (Moses 5:10.) With inspired insight, Eve explained the purpose of life and the source of joy:

“Were it not for our transgression we never should have had seed, and 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)
(“Joy and Mercy,” Ensign, Nov 1991, 73.)

As Eve might have said herself, it is better for us to taste the bitter that we might enjoy the sweet. I know that what I’m suggesting is difficult to accept, particularly if the pain of loss is fresh in your heart and mind. However, I do know that Adam and Eve chose the better part and because of them, you and I have the privilege of experiencing joy—and misery.

I testify that it is necessary for us to experience loss, heartache, misery, so that we are better equipped to recognize the good when it comes and truly appreciate it. Our Heavenly Father wants us to be happy in this life. Modern revelation tells us that “all things which come of the earth … are made for the benefit and the use of man, both to please the eye and to gladden the heart” (D&C 59:18.) The gospel plan provides a way for us to overcome the sadness in this world, and that plan is “the great plan of happiness” (Alma 42:8.)

Spencer W. Kimball, former President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) once said: “Marriage can be more an exultant ecstasy than the human mind can imagine” (“Oneness in Marriage,” Tambuli, Jun 1978, 1.) And I believe it is true.

My sister lives in humble circumstances, and has her entire married life. Yet, she is happily married. My husband and I did not get to have all the children we desired, nor do we enjoy good health, and yet, we are happy.

Far too married couples claim to be happy. It’s so common, in fact, to be unhappy that when you say you are happy in your marriage, people often look at you like you’ve sprouted horns. Yet, real, lasting happiness, is possible.

President Kimball taught that a simple formula could guarantee every couple a happy and eternal marriage. However, like all formulas, it often doesn’t work if you try to switch out the ingredients, or ignore one or two ingredients all together. You must pay careful attention to each ingredient in the formula—if you do this, you and your spouse will be happy.

First, the utmost care must be taken when choosing an eternal companion. This is not the time to give in to your hormones, or to other base desires. Make every effort to choose a companion who possesses all of those characters you deem to be most important for the long term. Think of the lifestyle you plan to lead, the children you hope to have, how you will raise them, what you expect from a future mate. All of these things and more, must be addressed and accounted for before you say “I do.”

Second, both individuals must practice great unselfishness. That “I do” you said when you got married should be the last time you think of “I.” Think of “we,” and you’ll do just fine. Think of the family, and strive to do all things for the good of the family—that is where happiness lies.

Third, saying “I do,” should not end the courting you enjoyed before you were married. Continued expressions of kindness and affection are the life blood of your marriage and absolutely necessary to keep love alive and growing.

And finally, keep the commandments of the Lord, as defined in the gospel of Jesus Christ. There can be no substitute for obedience to these commandments—they must be lived completely.

Apply these ingredients generously and continuously within your marriage and family unit. If you do this, President Kimball promised that “it is quite impossible for unhappiness to come, misunderstandings to continue, or breaks to occur.”

A happy marriage means lots of sacrifice and sharing. It means you don’t always get what you want. It means giving yourself in service to your spouse and your children. It means inviting care and worry for another to take the place of selfish cares and concerns. But life-long and eternal happiness is your reward—surely the price is not too great.

It is my distinct pleasure to come here to LDSblogs.com most days to write about happiness. Very often my song has the same words, just maybe set to a different tune. At first this concerned me. My readers will get bored! I worried. I figured you wouldn’t want to read the same thing, over and over again. Because, after all, the road to happiness is the straight and narrow road that leads to eternal life. There can be no other way to obtain happiness, so there’s no point in me trying to sugar coat it.

However, if you, like me, are human, sometimes stubborn, often tempted, somewhat discouraged by the hurdles life throws in your path—you never tire of reading how happiness can be obtained. Oftentimes for me, it is the very act of studying for this blog that sets my day straight. I have to be here, writing about this, learning about happiness, you choose to be here and as a result I am sure you are doubly blessed.

I love to read the words of Marion G. Romney. He was a General Authority in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) from 1951 to 1972. Like all prophets though, his words are timeless and count as much today as they did back then.

In an article published in the New Era, President Romney said, “Happiness depends upon possession of the moral virtues possessed and taught by Jesus. It cannot be conferred upon a person by another. It cannot be bought, purchased, or stolen. It can be won only by righteous living” (“Happiness,” New Era, Oct 1979, 5.)

Often, I have quoted the Prophet Joseph Smith when writing about happiness because in my opinion no truer words have been written on the subject before or since. He wrote:

“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 this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pp. 255–56.)

President Romney and President Smith are in agreement: It is through righteous living and keeping all the commandments of God that one can obtain true happiness in this life. Though many temptations are alluring, we must acknowledge and accept the fact that, “wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10.)

Our beloved Jesus told us exactly how happiness may be found:

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
“For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:28–30.)

President Romney also said, “As I have thought about the relationship of the teachings of Jesus to happiness, I have concluded that one’s conformance or nonconformance to them affects one’s happiness whether he accepts, rejects, or acts in ignorance of them.”

If you deny the teachings of Christ, whether you do so because you are ignorant of them, or you willfully refuse to adhere to them, your opportunity for true happiness will be decreased. However, if you make it your priority to study the teachings of Jesus and to act according to them, you will be blessed in ways uncounted—including an increase of happiness.

It is your responsibility to know and conform with the teachings of Jesus. Do that, and you will be happy.

In conclusion, a fun poem confirms all we have learned today. I hope you’ll come back and read with me again—the lessons of happiness bear repeating.

To Be Happy

You’ve got to be straight to be happy,
You’ve got to be square as a die.
Through wrong may come infinite pleasures,
But they fade, and they fly.

You’ve got to take life at its noblest
If you want to have gladness that counts,
Want the verve and the zeal of the spirit
That lifts you along as it mounts.

And, Oh! how it pays out of goodness
To draw for each day as we strive
Some measures of clean, healthy gladness,
In our work, and for being alive!

You’ve got to be true to be happy,
Be true to yourself over all,
And be blind to the lure of evil,
And deaf to its powerful call.

To set up high standards and keep them,
With the records so straight and so true,
For nothing can ever condemn them,
If that is your creed, it will do.

You’ve got to be clean to be happy,
You’ve got to be steadfast and pure
If you want what fife gives that is earnest,
That will help, and will hold, and endure.
(Baltimore Sun)

Nowadays, most of us are like Philip of New Testament, who cried “How can I [find my way], except some man should guide me?” (Acts 8:31) Though according to Joseph Smith, “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 this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, selected by Joseph Fielding Smith (1976), 255–56.)

How can we begin find that path that leads to happiness? Thomas S. Monson, then First Counselor in the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or the Mormon church,) spoke on “The Hallmarks of a Happy Home” (Liahona, Oct 2001, 3,) and taught how it is the family that can lead and guide us to the path that leads to happiness in this life and in the life to come.

Mrs. Margaret Thatcher, former prime minister of Great Britain, expressed the profound philosophy: “The family is the building block of society. It is a nursery, a school, a hospital, a leisure center, a place of refuge and a place of rest. It encompasses the whole of the society. It fashions our beliefs; it is the preparation for the rest of our life” (Nicholas Wood, “Thatcher Champions the Family,” London Times, 26 May 1988.)

President Monson taught that the building blocks for a happy home include:

1. A pattern of prayer.
2. A library of learning.
3. A legacy of love.
4. A treasury of testimony.

Prayer is the single most important block upon which the other blocks must stand. President Monson said, “Family prayer is the greatest deterrent to sin, and hence the most beneficent provider of joy and happiness. The old saying is yet true: “The family that prays together stays together"."

Where there is a love of good books, there are children who learn to love the world, and all that is in it. John Howard Payne wrote:

Books are keys to wisdom’s treasure;
Books are gates to lands of pleasure;
Books are paths that upward lead;
Books are friends. Come, let us read.
(“‘Mid Pleasures and Palaces,” Hymns (1948), number 185.)

Give your children a legacy of love, by letting them see you serve one another, neighbors and friends. Don’t be worthy of Jacob’s chastisement to the people of Nephi who forgot the importance of such a loving legacy: “Ye have broken the hearts of your tender wives, and lost the confidence of your children, because of your bad examples before them; and the sobbings of their hearts ascend up to God against you” (Jacob 2:35.)

And finally, let your homes be a treasure of testimony. President David O. McKay said “The first and foremost opportunity for teaching in the Church lies in the home” (Priesthood Home Teaching Handbook, revised edition (1967), ii–iii,) and “A true Mormon home is one in which if Christ should chance to enter, he would be pleased to linger and to rest” (In Conference Report, October 1947, 120; or Gospel Ideals: Selections from the Discourses of David O. McKay (1953), 169.)

It’s not just enough that you believe in God and in His son Jesus Christ, you must be sure to teach your children. Let them hear you bearing your testimony—sharing it with them every opportunity you get. President Monson said: “A love for the Savior, a reverence for His name, and genuine respect one for another will provide a fertile seedbed for a testimony to grow.”

I testify to you that if you follow those ‘hallmarks for a happy home,’ namely, a pattern of prayer, a library of learning, a legacy of love, and a treasury of testimony, your home and the hearts of your family members will be filled with happiness and you will have found the path that leads to happiness and joy ever after.

Every day we search for happiness—every one of us. There is not one living person who does not desire to be happy. Unfortunately, very often we mistake pleasure for happiness and since pleasure is more widely available we desperately grab onto it and hope it will make us happy.

Drugs, alcohol, even over eating can be a source of momentary pleasure that does not bring us the lasting happiness we crave. The world is full of sources of pleasure that are appealing on the surface, but can’t deliver the soul-healing joy that we were created to experience.

David O. McKay, then of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) once said, “You may get that transitory pleasure, yes, but you cannot find joy, you cannot find happiness. Happiness is found only along that well beaten track, narrow as it is, though straight, which leads to life eternal” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1919, 180.)

In Leonard Tolstoy’s book War and Peace, his character Pierre Bezúkhov learn “that man is created for happiness, that happiness is within him, in the satisfaction of simple human needs, and that all unhappiness arises not from privation but from superfluity” (trans. Louise and Aylmer Maude [1942], 1176.)

Here, Pierre is stating that it’s not for going without that brings us unhappiness, but excess. It’s not for having too little, but having too much.

Too often, we strive for more. We are a culture of overabundance and we are not any happier because of it. Rather, our obesity, our dependence on recreational drugs, is at an all-time high. We are drowning in our superfluity and we are not happy.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ can provide you with a plan for your own life that will yield you happiness unmeasured, without end. “The assurance of supreme happiness, the certainty of a successful life here and of exaltation and eternal life hereafter, come to those who plan to live their lives in complete harmony with the gospel of Jesus Christ—and then consistently follow the course they have set” (The Miracle of Forgiveness [1969], 259.)

Decide today to make Christ’s plan of happiness your own. Make it the blueprint for your life. Forsake the lure of fleeting happiness and grasp instead, that joy that is yours for the taking—a life well lived in the gospel of Christ, your feet firm on the narrow path that leads you to life and joy eternal.

Recently, I’ve written a great deal about the importance in keeping the commandments of God in our search for happiness. It is of such import to our eternal progression, that I am moved to write on the subject once more.

Keeping the commandments, which include the Ten Commandments as given by God to Moses as well as those added by the Savior—to love the Lord with all your heart, mind, might and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself. The self-mastery and personal discipline keeping the commandments requires of you, grants the real freedom that exalts and sustains us—this is the secret to happiness both here and hereafter.

Some people think that happiness is a life of ease, full of glamor and luxury. But true happiness in fact derives from the selfless service of our fellow man.

The world is fraught with temptations that play upon our natural selfishness. It is not a sin to be human and to be tempted by the things of the world. What is sinful is to deny the godliness within us.

“For the natural man is an enemy to God, and has been from the fall of Adam, and will be, forever and ever, unless he yields to the enticings of the Holy Spirit, and putteth off the natural man and becometh a saint through the atonement of Christ the Lord, and becometh as a child, submissive, meek, humble, patient, full of love, willing to submit to all things which the Lord seeth fit to inflict upon him, even as a child doth submit to his father” (Mosiah 3:19.)

Selflessness is a God-given virtue and is a key to happiness. When we put off the natural man and strive to be more God-like, we find are more giving, more loving, more quick to do that thing that Christ would do Himself if He were here.

That fun adage “What would Jesus do?” is an apt phrase that can be put to good use in our lives. Strive to perform acts of Christian service, to be the hands of heart of Christ in all that you do. Former president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) Spencer W. Kimball said, “Every principle of the gospel carries within itself its own witness that it is true. So it is that acts of service help not only the beneficiaries of the service, but they enlarge the giver”
(Spencer W. Kimball, “Privileges and Responsibilities of Sisters,” New Era, Jan 1979, 42.)

It is by striving to be more like Jesus Christ, that you will fulfill your own destiny and become more like your true self. In this way you will have the opportunity to reach your full potential and to reap the happiness that our loving Heavenly Father holds in store for you.

You are cordially invited to

Come Unto Christ

Who: Everyone is invited who has a true desire to discover happiness and to receive it in this life and throughout eternity.

What: Feel the power of His redeeming love through obedience, even in small things. You will receive blessings beyond measure if you bring a repentant heart and a contrite spirit.

Where & When: You can seek Him through prayer at any place and at any time. He will come into your heart and grant you peace if you but seek Him.

Why: Find true happiness and peace secure in the knowledge that Jesus Christ is the light, the life and hope of the world. “Behold I say unto you, that as these things are true, and as the Lord God liveth, there is none other name given under heaven save it be this Jesus Christ, of which I have spoken, whereby man can be saved” (2 Nephi 25:20.)

I have sought Jesus Christ and the peace of heart following Him brings, my entire life. I invite you to take my invitation and receive Him into your own heart that you can have the happiness and joy He offers.

As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) I worship the Savior and all that He teaches. If you have not yet found Him, I encourage you to contact the Missionaries and ask for a copy of the Book of Mormon. There is no truer book on earth wherein you can read the teachings of Jesus Christ.

In the Book of Mormon you will read how Jesus Christ was true to His promise to visit His “other sheep” (John 10:16,) and that those sheep were on the North American continent.

Jesus loves you and He is seeking you, even now.

He desires for you to come unto Him. If you will answer His call, He will bless you and comfort you.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
“For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30.)

I testify that by following the path of Christ, striving to be like Him, and obeying His counsel, you can obtain true happiness in this life. I hope you will Come Unto Him—and be happy.

Do you know where you’re going?

Every day we make decisions that determine where we will end up at the end of the day. Did we overeat today, so tonight we’ll feel full and bloated? Did we exercise today, so tonight we will feel strong and healthy? Did we pay our bills today so that tomorrow we will feel secure in knowing all is paid for? Did we pray today so that tonight we will feel safe knowing we are cared for by a loving Heavenly Father?

What is your destination?

I want to return to Heaven and live forever in happiness with my family and my God. That is my goal.

It’s a lofty goal that requires thought, planning and constant diligence or else I am likely to veer off course.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) believe it is possible to be reunited with our families after we die and to live forever with our Heavenly Father. Through faithful obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we can reach this goal.

First, we must have faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Faith requires constant attention. It doesn’t grow if we don’t feed it. Its growth is stunted if we don’t use it. We must exercise faith that there is a God above us who knows us and loves us. We have to believe that He has a plan for us and that it is a good plan that will benefit us if we follow it. Faith requires that we act upon our beliefs even if we can’t see where our steps will lead us.

Mormons believe that God’s greatest gift to us is what yet lies in store: “For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man” (Moses 1:39).

Second, we must repent of our sins.

Part of Heavenly Father’s plan for us is to provide a way for us to return home to Him, even if we have been less than perfect in this life. There has been and will ever be, only one person who has lived a perfect life—and that one person is Jesus Christ. None of us are expected to live as well as He did. However we are expected to take the gift of atonement that He offers us and to use it—or else His sacrifice is for naught.

Repent of your sins, forsake them.

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, wrote:

“In the Book of Mormon Alma tried to help his son Corianton avoid unnecessary storms by explaining that “wickedness never was happiness” (Alma 41:10.) Unfortunately, sin appears occasionally attractive but hides its destructive nature until it is too late and harm is already done. We need to understand how to recognize and avoid the evil and be prepared to detour around it in time. If we do fail, however, there is hope and relief made possible through the atonement of Jesus Christ. Sincere repentance brings us forgiveness and peace in this life and puts us back on course to live again with our Heavenly Father (“Happy Landing,” New Era, Mar 1995, 4.)

Third, repeat steps one and two over and over again.

Put on your to-do list today to exercise faith and repentance and repeat. If you do these things, you will stay on course for your greatest destination. Not only will the journey be one of peace and happiness but your reward will be an eternity of joy and rejoicing, happiness beyond measure.

This weekend I was privileged to spend several hours learning about Jesus Christ. At a church meeting for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons,) we devoted all our attention to that Savior Who is the center of our religion, our faith, and our lives.

Jesus Christ is as the hub of the great wheel of our lives. He is at the center, the core, of all that we do. As Nephi, the Book of Mormon prophet declared:

“And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins” (2 Nephi 25:26.)

Those few hours I spent learning more about the Savior have filled my heart with joy. I can truly say that I feel to “rejoice in Christ.”

To rejoice in Him means that we go forth in life with a generally happy outlook that reflects our faith in our Savior. We know that as we follow Him and do those things that He has asked us to do, He will bless us with His comfort and His grace.

In his article, “Mom, Are We Christians?” Gary J. Coleman wrote:

“We know that “his grace is sufficient” for us to be redeemed from death and sin and to be perfected in Him (see Moroni 10:32–33). While we face disappointments and even tragedies, we know that because of Him, our eternal happiness is assured. As our faith in Jesus Christ shines through, we show others who “labour and are heavy laden” how to find rest in Him (see Matthew 11:28–30)” (Ensign, May 2007, 92–94.)

The Savior Jesus Christ is as a Light to the world. He guides us and shows us the way we should go to obtain eternal life and happiness. His offer to bear our burdens gives us hope that we don’t have to face our challenges alone and in fact, there is a caring Friend who is willing to share our burden—to carry it all, in fact, if we will let Him.

If we will put Jesus Christ at the center of our lives, and let all other priorities stem from Him, then our lives will run smoothly and we will find joy within them.

Imagine a giant wagon wheel—the hub is large and solid, and all the spokes join the wheel in that center and move outward to attach to the rim. Imagine those spokes represent our families, our careers, our hobbies or interests, our friends. If one of those spokes were to break or fall out, the wheel would still function as it was meant to—it would continue to go round and round without faltering. However, if the hub were to somehow be broken, or it was not well formed or solid, then there would be nothing to retain the spokes and the wheel would fall apart.

I testify that if you will put Jesus Christ at the center of your lives and allow all other interests and priorities to stem from Him, then your life will have order and you will be blessed. Rejoice in the Lord your Savior. Remember Him in all that you do. He will bless your efforts and you will have joy.

One of the great inhibitors to true happiness is a failure to realize our true potential.

There are a lot of reasons why we settle for less—from ourselves, from others, from life. We can’t do much about what others do, or about how life turns out, but we can—and we must—make the best use of our own life, of our own talents and abilities.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons) talk a lot about talents as gifts from God. You will see many Mormon men and women who seem to have it all—success in their careers as well as obvious talents that they readily share with the people around them. This is because we believe in the parable of the talents as told in Matthew, that the more we make use of those talents, or gifts, that God has given us, the more we will receive (Matthew 25:15-16, 20, 22, 24-25, 28.)

Learning to recognize your talents can be difficult. Sometimes we are not blessed with a remarkable musical talent, or the ability to disassemble and reassemble a car engine in record time. Sometimes are gifts are of a more subtle nature—perhaps we are able to discern when a friend really needs a listening ear, or a kind word.

In the Book of Mormon, we learn about the ways we receive talents, or gifts of the Spirit, and how you should use them:

And again, I exhort you, my brethren, that ye deny not the gifts of God, for they are many; and they come from the same God. And there are different ways that these gifts are administered; but it is the same God who worketh all in all; and they are given by the manifestations of the Spirit of God unto men, to profit them.

And to another, exceedingly great faith; and to another, the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;

And all these gifts come by the Spirit of Christ; and they come unto every man severally, according as he will (Moroni 10:8, 11, 17.)

I have long been a fan of Mother Theresa—a more giving and truly charitable person I’ve never known. But did you know that she suffered from pangs of doubt and feelings of inadequacy? Who would ever have guessed that this remarkable woman every doubted herself or in what she was doing? Yet, she did.

She hung a poem on the wall of the orphanage she founded in Calcutta. One can only assumed that she posted it there as a reminder to herself—a reminder to keep on keeping on, even when doubt assailed her.

Our Heavenly Father loves us and He has blessed us with many gifts and talents, many opportunities, to fulfill the measure of our creation. When we are being all that we can be, we grow closer to God and our hearts are filled. It is then that we can find true joy and experience happiness in all that we do.

And so I would like to encourage you to search your heart for those things that bring you joy, because perhaps they are a priceless gift that you have yet to fully appreciate. And when life’s trials seem insurmountable and the obstacles before you loom above you, remember who you are—a child of God, an individual with unlimited potential.

Mother Theresa’s poem … “Anyway”

People are often unreasonable,
illogical and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind,
People may accuse you
of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful,
you will win some false friends and
some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank,
people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building,
someone could destroy overnight;
Build anyway

If you find serenity and happiness,
they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today,
people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,
and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis.
it is between you and God;
It is never between you and them anyway.
(Author Unknown)

The President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church,) has a wonderful way with words. Long before he became our Prophet and Seer, I enjoyed listening—and learning—from this great man.

Twice a year Mormons enjoy a General Conference, during which time we are taught by the leaders of our Church—including our Prophet. In April of this year, President Thomas S. Monson gave a talk I thought you could benefit from.

President Monson taught us about “Treasure of Eternal Value” (Ensign, Apr 2008, 4–9.) He said that there are three key components to living your life worthy of “joy unspeakable and eternal happiness hereafter.”

Those three keys are:

1. Learn from the past.
2. Prepare for the future.
3. Live in the present.

Today, it is not popular to speak of God and His importance in our lives. However, there was a time when God shaped a man’s destiny—particularly for those men and women who settled the United States in their efforts to assert religious freedom for themselves and their children.

We are the blessed descendants of such people—whether we live in the United States or in regions around the world—our parents knew the value of God and sought to include Him in their lives.

We would do well to learn from their example and to strive to emulate it.

Learn from the past.

People have been trying, from time immemorial, to see into the future. Many have claimed they could, but most of us cannot. In lieu of sure knowledge, we must be prepared. Oftentimes that requires a sacrifice today, but if we will keep our sites on our goal, we’ll know the sacrifice is worth it.

Also, we must pray daily to our Father in Haven, who loves us, because He will guide us in the way we should go—he wants each of us to succeed in life and prayer will help us stay on the right path.

Prepare for the future.

Too often the old adage “Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today,” is ignored as we daydream of the past and long for the future. But doing so robs us of our today, and today is the only guarantee we have.

We should never take the blessings we enjoy today to be forgotten or taken for granted. Too often, those blessings take the form of loved ones who share our lives and friendship. Live in the moment and tell the ones you love how you feel—they will be blessed for it, and so will you.

Live in the present.

The Savior, Jesus Christ, said:

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
“But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:19.)

Think of these three components of pieces to a map that will guide you to the greatest treasure you could ever hope to find. Learn from the past, prepare for the future, and live for today. Remember God loves you. Be happy.

If you search the internet you will find many studies which proclaim that religious people are happier than non-religious people. Faith seems to be the predominant factor in their happiness—faith that things can and will get better, that there is hope, that they are on the right path.

As a faithful follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, I whole-heartedly concur with these studies. I have lived my life as a not-so-religious person and as a faithful religious person—I have been the happiest when my life, and my actions, are in line with good religious beliefs.

I have experimented with many religions in my life, from non-Christian to Christian, and for the bulk of my life I have settled on one that has helped me be the happiest—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons) have the most intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, that I have found. They love Him. They worship Him. Doing so, gives shape and meaning to their lives and yes, brings happiness.

Mormons believe the words from the Book of Mormon:

“Behold I say unto you, that as these things are true, and as the Lord God liveth, there is none other name given under heaven save it be this Jesus Christ, of which I have spoken, whereby man can be saved”(2 Nephi 25:20.)

It is not easy to have such faith in Jesus Christ when so many voices in the world today say there is no God. But as we come to know and accept the Atonement in our own lives, we will see its power working with us daily.

Reflect on how His Atonement has changed you. Give thanks often. Doing so will help you put the challenges in your life into perspective and help you to find the happiness that can be yours—even amidst your trials and tribulations.

Strive to become like Him, and you will find it is easier to look at life with a humble heart—one that is wise and quick to love and comfort another. You will do as He did, and you will be happy.

Christ said:

“Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
“For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30.)

It’s not hard for me to believe that religious people are happier. I certainly am—happier than my former non-religious self, that is.

I testify that you too, can find happiness in the teachings of Jesus Christ. I encourage you to read the Book of Mormon, which is another testament of Jesus Christ and holds the truest words you will ever read.

I testify that if you will strive to come unto Christ, to know Him, to become like Him, to do as He would do—then you will find a happiness that will not only bless you in this life, but for all eternity.

May God help each and every one of us to remember that the gospel of Jesus Christ is not only a gospel of conversion, but it is a gospel of forgiveness...There is nothing that will bring us more of the Spirit of God than to be kind, considerate, charitable, long-suffering and forgiving. There is nothing that will bring more joy to us than to be ready and willing to forgive the trespasses of our neighbors against us, and there is nothing that will bring more condemnation to us than to harden our hearts and to be bitter and vindictive in our feelings towards those by whom we are surrounded. (President Heber J. Grant, seventh Prophet and President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)

There's an object lesson about forgiveness that many of us are familiar with. It requires a backpack, a couple of bricks, and a class of willing young men or women. For this lesson on forgiveness, the bricks represent the burden that we carry around when we are unforgiving of others or even of ourselves. Removing the bricks from the backpack immediately lightens the load. When we forgive, we are literally letting go of the 'bricks of anger and hate' that can weigh us down.

All of us have probably felt offended at one time or another in our lives. We've all had to forgive others and others have had to forgive us. Sometimes, forgiveness is easy and almost instantaneous. Other times, forgiving can be very hard. There are also times when the offense appears to be almost unforgivable, at least in our eyes. If you are one who had to carry such a burden around for awhile then you understand how heavy such a load can be. If you are one who was able to forgive such a trespass, then you've also felt what it was like to have such a weight lifted from your shoulders. You know what it feels like to be free from the chains of an unforgiving heart. You've felt the immediate sense of peace and happiness that comes when you finally forgive with all your heart.

Elder Richard G. Scott of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles said:

You may be carrying a heavy burden of feeling injured by another who has seriously offended you. Your response to that offense may have distorted your understanding so that you feel justified in waiting for that individual to ask forgiveness so that the pain can leave...
Don’t carry the burden of offense any longer. Genuinely ask forgiveness of one that has offended you, even when you consider you have done no wrong. That effort will assuredly bring you peace and will likely begin the healing of serious misunderstandings.

As Christians, we know that our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ gave us the greatest example of forgiveness. He also commanded us to forgive:

Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin.
I, the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men.(D&C 64:9-10)

I read recently of this great and wondrous gift of forgiveness by members of the Catholic faith towards those of my faith. The inappropriate behavior by those of my faith who should have known better saddened and angered us as well. What a beautiful example our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ showed with their forgiveness. If we could all be as forgiving of each other, how much happier and peaceful would we all be in these troubled times?

I've often been plagued with feelings of anger towards those that defile that which is sacred to my faith. As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (informally known as the Mormon Church), I've had to walk silently by as others waved our sacred garments in the air just a few feet from me. During General Conference, even there we are accosted by many that mock our beliefs. I've had to ask my children to sing a Primary song with me to drown out those that yell and wave signs that demean our leaders and beliefs when we attended the Mormon Miracle Pageant in Manti,Utah and the Hill Cumorah Pageant in Palmyra, New York.

Did I have anger in my heart? Yes, but then I immediately realized that by allowing such feelings to linger and grow in me, I was doing exactly the opposite of what Jesus taught. And so like my Catholic brothers and sisters, I forgave and by doing so was able to feel the peace and happiness that the gospel of Jesus Christ can bring to each of us.

In The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Twelve Apostles, we read, “His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come.” But how can we find His path? And once we have found it, how can we get on it and stay on it?

As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormons) we believe in thirteen articles of faith, or tenets, the fourth of which states:

“We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Articles of Faith 1:4.)

How can faith in the Lord Jesus Christ help us find the path that leads to happiness? To answer this question, we must understand that were it not for a perfect Savior who willingly gave His life for us, there could be no remission of our sins. Lehi, a Book of Mormon prophet, taught that “no flesh … can dwell in the presence of God, save it be through the merits, and mercy, and grace of the Holy Messiah” (2 Ne. 2:8.)

Next, we must repent of our sins and give them up, forever. Repentance involves not just a change of actions but a change of heart. The Lord said, “Behold, this is my doctrine—whosoever repenteth and cometh unto me, the same is my church” (D&C 10:67.) http://scriptures.lds.org/dc/10//67#67 In his talk, “A Mighty Change of Heart” President Ezra Taft Benson said:

“If we wish to truly repent and come unto Him so that we can be called members of His Church, we must first and foremost come to realize this eternal truth—the gospel plan is the plan of happiness. Wickedness never did, never does, never will bring us happiness. Violation of the laws of God brings only misery, bondage, and darkness” (Ensign, Oct 1989, 2.)

In the scriptures we read of men whose lives were changed in dramatic ways when they repented. For most of us, repenting does not bring such astonishing results. We shouldn’t second-guess ourselves or assume we are somehow less worthy if we don’t experience such things ourselves. “There are hundreds and thousands of people who find the process of repentance much more subtle, much more imperceptible” says President Benson. Little by little, day by day, these people live quiet lives of goodness and service, striving to live the lives God has asked of them. Don’t be like the Lamanites who the Lord said “were baptized with fire and with the Holy Ghost, and they knew it not” (3 Ne. 9:20.)

The Psalmist exclaimed:

“O how love I thy law! … Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies. … Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. … Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart” (Ps. 119:97-98, 105, 111.)

I pray that you can be found rejoicing in your heart also. Please don’t get down on yourself if you fail to hear angels singing or the voice of God Himself reassuring you that you have been forgiven of your sins. Have faith. Believe. Know that your Savior gave His life for you and that all is required of you is to live by that knowledge, through faith, repent and sin no more. Your Heavenly Father wants you to be happy so He has prepared a way for you. If you will follow Him, have faith in Him and repent of your sins, you will find yourself on the path that leads to happiness.

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.

I read this little article the other day that's been staying with me, so I thought I'd share it with you. It's about a young girl who moves to a new town. When she goes into her Young Women's class on her first Sunday there, she has to sit alone. She looks around her and everyone else has a friend to sit with, except for her. She chose a spot against the wall, an empty chair beside her, and she feels very lonely.

At some point during her lesson she looks up at the wall she's sitting beside and notices a picture of the Savior there. A warm feeling fills her and she realized that all this time she was sitting with a friend. The girl said, “It took a while to get used to living in our new town and to find new friends. At times I did feel alone, but I always remembered that Sunday when I noticed the painting of the Savior and realized I was never alone. Jesus Christ will always be my friend.” (Becky Prescott, “Always My Friend,” Liahona, May 2001, 47.)

Did you know that you are never alone? That Jesus Christ is your truest Friend and will never leave you comfortless? There is never a moment in your life, of sorrow, doubt, or pain, that Jesus has not already suffered. There is no sin, no sadness, no shame, no loneliness, that He has not already experienced. He understands you better than anyone else on the earth. And He is always with you.

Ponder these things the Savior has said:

“Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
“Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” (John 15:14-15.)

“I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.” (John 14:18.)

“Be patient in afflictions, for thou shalt have many; but endure them, for, lo, I am with thee, even unto the end of thy days.” (Doctrine & Covenants 24:8.)

When most things can't penetrate my thick skull, music usually can. I wish I could sing this little song for you, because the music is sweet and helps to convey the words, but since I can't, I hope you'll at least enjoy the words:

Here's a little song to help you get along.
It'll see you through when you're feeling blue.

And though it's not profound, when you're feelin' down, so down,
sing this little tune and you'll feel better soon.

You're not alone.
Even though right now you're on your own.
You are loved in ways that can't be shown.
Your needs are known.
You're not alone.

And when you cry.
You're just lettin' go a heartache deep inside,
so tomorrow they'll be sunshine and sky and love close by.
You're not alone.

And I know that it's not easy,
but I know that it won't last--
'cause one who loves you more than me is sending blessings fast.

You're not alone.
Say it one more time-- "I'm Not Alone".
And even when it's hard to find the words.
You're always heard.
You're not alone.

You're not alone.
Say it one more time.
I'm not alone.
Even when it's hard to say the words.
You're prayers are heard.
You're not alone.
(“You're Not Alone” Michael McLane)

You need not feel alone another moment. You have the greatest Friend waiting patiently beside you, ready to comfort you if you will let Him. I truly believe that you can be happy, truly happy, with the knowledge that you are not alone and that your Savior loves you and is your true and constant Friend.

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and are filled with hope as you look forward to the New Year. I love this time of year, because it provides me the opportunity to put things into perspective. I remember why we have Christmas – because the Christ Child was born. I remember why we have new beginnings – because through Christs' Atonement we can all begin again, with a fresh start. But we don't have to wait until New Years day to begin again. We can begin together, right now.

Richard G. Scott, a leader in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church) taught in his conference address entitled “How To Live Well Amid Increasing Evil” (Ensign, May 2004, 100) that every day we have a choice, and he encourages us to make our choice consciously with our eyes wide open:

“You have a choice. You can wring your hands and be consumed with concern for the future or choose to use the counsel the Lord has given to live with peace and happiness in a world awash with evil. If you choose to concentrate on the dark side, this is what you will see. Much of the world is being engulfed in a rising river of degenerate filth, with the abandonment of virtue, righteousness, personal integrity, traditional marriage, and family life. Sodom and Gomorrah was the epitome of unholy life in the Old Testament. It was isolated then; now that condition is spread over the world. Satan skillfully manipulates the power of all types of media and communication. His success has greatly increased the extent and availability of such degrading and destructive influences worldwide. In the past some effort was required to seek out such evil. Now it saturates significant portions of virtually every corner of the world. We cannot dry up the mounting river of evil influences, for they result from the exercise of moral agency divinely granted by our Father. But we can and must, with clarity, warn of the consequences of getting close to its enticing, destructive current.

Now the brighter side. Despite pockets of evil, the world overall is majestically beautiful, filled with many good and sincere people. God has provided a way to live in this world and not be contaminated by the degrading pressures evil agents spread throughout it. You can live a virtuous, productive, righteous life by following the plan of protection created by your Father in Heaven: His plan of happiness. It is contained in the scriptures and in the inspired declarations of His prophets. He clothed your intelligence with spirit and made it possible for you to enjoy the wonder of a physical body. When you use that body in the way He has decreed, you will grow in strength and capacity, avoid transgression, and be abundantly blessed.”

I hope you, like me, will desire to choose the brighter side, to avoid transgression and be abundantly blessed. We can do it, if we try. We might slip and fall from time to time, but one of Mormons beliefs is that through the wonder of the atonement we can repent, be forgiven, and begin again.

To help us on our journey to happiness, here are a few scriptures I'm sure you'll find encouraging:

Paul taught, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21) It's simple, isn't it? Remember our grandmothers admonition to us? “You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar.” Life can be sweet if you approach it that way.

When we start each new day with a resolution in our hearts to seek out happiness, we should emulate Joshua: “Choose [ye] this day whom ye will serve; … as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15) Begin each day with the desire to serve the Lord and you will be blessed.

In the Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ, Jesus taught: “Be patient in afflictions, for thou shalt have many; but endure them, for, lo, I am with thee, even unto the end of thy days.” (D&C 24:8) Each day, as we strive to overcome evil with good, as we serve the Lord faithfully, Jesus never leaves us comfortless. He is with us always.

The Savior also reminds us that, “He who is faithful shall overcome all things, and shall be lifted up at the last day.” (D&C 75:16) Oh, what happiness we will have then!

Finally, we can follow this pattern of success: “Come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, … deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, … that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ.” (Moroni 10:32)

We are not expected to be perfect in Christ today, or even tomorrow. That is a crown on our efforts we might receive at the end of our days, should we be faithful day by day. I rarely move forward more than a couple steps before slipping back a step. At least, I tell myself, that I am generally moving forward! I think this is success, though. To generally move forward, to make every day a new day and to try again. Doing so, will allow us to have happiness in our life and will nominate us for joy in the eternal days to come.

I encourage you to ponder these scriptures and then to repent, make full use of the Atonement which was made just for you, then ... begin again, and be happy.

I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. You might know us as the Mormons. I was twenty-one when the missionaries began teaching me the gospel. For some inexplicable reason, I found myself overcome with laughter just about every time they taught me. The message they were teaching me was sweet, uplifting and inspiring. They taught me about the Plan of Salvation, about eternal families, and how Heavenly Father loved me because I was His daughter. There was nothing in what the missionaries were teaching me that called for the kind of gales of laughter I regularly fell into when they taught me. I don't know if it was frustrating for them, though I'm sure it must have been, but I do know it was very embarrassing to me!

It wasn't until I went to the temple, a sacred place of learning for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, that I finally kicked the laughter. There, in the quiet holy places of the temple, I finally understood the laughters' source, and its meaning.

At the time the Toronto Temple featured a large painting of Jesus Christ that has always had a powerful influence on me. In the painting, Jesus stands amidst the clouds while angels herald His glorious resurrection. The painting tells me He is waiting for me, He is calling to me, He wants to welcome me home.

There, in the temple, the giggles finally released me and in their place came the understanding that the joy I had long been feeling was the promise and the gift of redemption. In the giggles' place lay a quiet and sure knowledge of my Savior's sacrifice for me and of His great love for me. The words to an LDS Hymn came to mind:

“I stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me,
Confused at the grace that so fully he profers me.
I tremble to know that for he was crucified,
That for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.

Oh it is wonderful that he should care for me, enough to die for me!
Oh it wonderful, wonderful to me!”
(LDS Hymn #193)

I am so thankful for my Savior and for my Heavenly Father. Because of Their great love for me, and for you, our Father gave up His Only Begotten Son that He be might the sacrificial lamb through which we could all be forgiven of our sins. Because of the birth of a tiny baby, and the spotless life He led, you and I can have eternal life and eternal joy.

“I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
“For unto you is born this day … a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11.)

Were it not for the gift of our Savior, we could have no hope of eternal joy. Don't live another day in your sins, weighed down by misery and woe. Repent and be forgiven and your heart will be filled to overflowing with the sweet joy of redemption.

Doing good, doing right, brings happiness. Conversely, doing evil, doing wrong, sweeps us down into the pit of despair. Even people who don't know about Jesus and His teachings would likely agree to the truthfulness of these statements. When have you been on a path of self-destruction that you have felt contentment and joy? When have you tried to bring others down with you, that you weren't secretly hoping someone would come and lift you up?

For thousands of years now the formula has been available to all of us, if we would only read it, and apply it in our lives. In the New Testament Jesus taught:

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

“Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

“For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matt. 11:28-30)

I love the part where He says “... learn of me; ... and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” That is lovely and really, so easy to do. The first and best way to come unto Christ is to learn the commandments of God which can be found in the Old Testament in the twentieth chapter of Exodus:

(1) “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.”

(2) “Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.”

(3) “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.”

(4) “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.”

(5) “Honour thy father and thy mother.”

(6) “Thou shalt not kill.”

(7) “Thou shalt not commit adultery.”

(8) “Thou shalt not steal.”

(9) “Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.”

(10) “Thou shalt not covet.”

I invite you to take a step closer to obtaining the happiness you desire: Study and learn these commandments and then apply them to your life. Joseph Smith, Jr., first Prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (or Mormon Church, as it is commonly known) 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 this path is virtue, uprightness, faithfulness, holiness, and keeping all the commandments of God.” (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, pp. 255–56.)

I am confident that keeping the commandments will draw you nearer to Christ and in doing so, your burdens will be eased and your heart softened. When you seek to do good, you will find happiness is your reward.

During the Christmas season we are often inspired to the virtue of giving. In the