Appreciate country
Develop talents
Love eternal family
Serve God
Drawing upon an experience he recently enjoyed with his grandchildren, Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the Twelve asked "to play grandfather" to the young people of the Church by providing "a framework to resist temptations and thrive in today's complex world."
Referring to the four topics he discussed with his grandchildren, Elder Perry began his Sunday afternoon address by developing "appreciation for the land in which we live."
He quoted the Lord's comments to Joseph Smith about how He valued the land that He had created for His children. (See D&C 38:17-20.)
"The Lord has blessed us with lands of promise to enjoy during our mortal probation. The nations of the world, if they follow the Lord, will continue to be a blessing to His children so long as they trust and follow Him."
Elder Perry said the Lord expects "His special young sons and daughters . . . to be especially mindful of [His] bounteous blessings" and to "obey, honor and sustain the law," and prepare to make a contribution to society by obtaining "the best education available to us."
In discussing the second topic concerning self-esteem, Elder Perry asked, "Have you ever thought of yourself as a junior angel crowned with glory and honor?
"Every one of our Father in Heaven's children is great in His sight. We have all been blessed with many talents and abilities. It matters not the size or the quantity, but the effort we put forth to develop the talents and abilities we have received.
"You are only in competition with yourself to do the best with what you have received. Each talent that is developed will be greatly needed and will give you tremendous fulfillment and satisfaction during your life."
He also admonished young people to develop "a pleasant disposition - an even temperament," and to properly care for the body with nourishment, rest and cleanliness. He encouraged them to live "with hope that you can achieve and accomplish and develop the great gifts our Father in Heaven has given to you."
Love of family was the third topic.
"Learn to appreciate what it means to belong to an eternal family," he said. "Remember, you are part of an eternal unit that requires your best effort. Be certain you bring warmth, kindness, understanding, consideration and a strong love to your eternal family."
Speaking of the fourth topic, "Love of God," Elder Perry said, "We must find our own relationship with our Eternal Father. We must gain our own testimonies. We must decide whether to conform our lives to the Lord's standards."
Elder Perry recited Joshua's commitment: "Choose you this day whom ye will serve; . . . but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." (Josh. 24:15.)
"This is the way you remain strong and able to withstand the multitude of worldly pressures," he said.
