Brokenhearted parents
Let us not be arrogant but rather humbly grateful if our children are obedient and respectful of our teachings of the ways of the Lord. To those brokenhearted parents who have been righteous, diligent and prayerful in the teaching of their disobedient children we say to you, the Good Shepherd is watching over them. God knows and understands your deep sorrow. There is hope. — From Sunday morning session, General Conference, April 6, 2003
Courage
In addition to being a comforter, the Holy Ghost can bless us with the select and uncommon human characteristics of moral and intellectual courage. This is the courage to stand up against criticism, disfavor, or derision, always affirming principles, beliefs and faith. Those who have such courage are respected and admired, even by those who disagree with them. On the other hand, those who compromise, evade, deny, or repudiate their convictions become an object of disrespect, even by those whose favor they have sought. — From remarks after receiving honorary doctorate during BYU commencement, Aug. 14, 1997
Discipleship
Discipleship includes many things. It is chastity. It is tithing. It is family home evening. It is keeping the commandments. It is forsaking anything that is not good for us. Everything in life has a price. Considering the Savior's great promise for peace in this life and eternal life in the life to come, discipleship is a price worth paying. It is a price we cannot afford not to pay. By measure, the requirements of discipleship are much, much less than the promised blessings. — From Saturday Morning session, General Conference, Sept. 30, 2006
Forgiveness
We need to recognize and acknowledge angry feelings. It will take humility to do this, but if we get on our knees and ask Heavenly Father for a feeling of forgiveness, He will help us.... Only as we rid ourselves of hatred and bitterness can the Lord put comfort into our hearts. — Saturday morning session, General Conference, April 1, 2007
My teachers
In truth, my teachers have been legion. I am grateful to all from whom I have learned. My noble parents and grandparents in love, kindness and firmness were special teachers. I have learned much from my children and grandchildren whom we dearly love. In the sacred, intimate family relationships, my Ruth has taught me more than anyone else about what is most important in life and eternity by her side. If I am so privileged, eternity would not be long enough. — From remarks after receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Utah, May 9, 2002
Obligation to country
I served for three years in World War II. During most of that time I was married and was separated from my wife for a considerable period. I was drafted and served because it was the law of the land. I was no hero, but I believe I did the right thing. If I had to do it over, I would not try to avoid my wartime obligation to my country. — Freedom Festival, Provo, Utah, July 2, 1995
The sure way
My belief in and conviction of the divine truthfulness of the Church has now covered a long period of time — as long as I can remember. That testimony has grown stronger as the years have passed.... I testify to you young people that the gospel contains the answers to life's challenges and problems. It is the sure way to happiness and the fulfillment of the Savior's promise, which is "Peace in this world, and eternal life in the world to come (Doctrine and Covenants 59:23)." — From CES fireside address, Sept. 8, 2002
Youth
I am optimistic for you. Life presents great challenges and difficulties, but now is the most exciting time in the history of the world in which to live. There are greater opportunities to build the kingdom of God than ever before. — From CES Satellite Broadcast, Nov. 1, 1998
