A young mother considering an important surgical operation prompted Elder Russell M. Nelson's Sunday afternoon address about choices.

"Because challenging choices face all of us from time to time, I invite others to join with us as I extend my conversation with this young mother," said Elder Nelson of the Council of the Twelve.As if speaking to the mother, he said: "I would suggest three questions you might ask yourself as you consider your options. Whether they are `once-in-a-lifetime' or routine daily decisions, serious reflection on these three questions will help clarify your thinking. You might wish to review these questions first alone and then with your husband. They are: 1. `Who am I?' 2. `Why am I here?' 3. `Where am I going?'

"As you consider these fundamental questions, it will become clear that decisions you first thought to be purely personal virtually always impact the lives of others. In answering these questions, then, you must be mindful of the broader circle of family and friends who will be affected by the consequences of your choice."

Answering the first question, Elder Nelson said: "You are one of God's noble and great spirits, held in reserve to come to earth at this time. (See D&C 86:8-11.) In the premortal life you were appointed to help prepare the world for the great gathering of souls that will precede the Lord's second coming. . . .

"As a member of the Church, you have made sacred covenants with the Lord. You have taken upon yourself the name of Christ. (See D&C 18:28; 20:29, 37.) You have promised to always remember Him and to keep His commandments. In return, He has agreed to grant His Spirit to be with you. (See Moro. 4:3; 5:2; D&C 20:77.)

Turning to the second question, Elder Nelson said one of the most important reasons for being on the earth is to receive a mortal body, and another is to be tested to determine what one will do with life's challenging opportunities.

"Those opportunities require you to make choices, and choices depend on agency. A major reason for your mortal existence, therefore, is to test how you will exercise your agency. (See 2 Ne. 2:15, 25.)"

Elder Nelson said agency presents an opportunity to develop faith and obedience and repent of wrongdoing, qualifying one for the blessings of the atonement of Christ.

Regarding the third question, Elder Nelson said that after death, all will be resurrected with the physical body restored to its perfect frame.

"The day of your resurrection will be a day of judgment that will determine the kind of life you shall have hereafter," he explained. "That judgment will consider not only your actions but your innermost intent and heartfelt desires. Your everyday thoughts have not been lost. Scriptures speak of the `bright recollection' (Alma 11:43) and `perfect remembrance' (Alma 5:18) that your mind will provide in times of divine judgment."

The apostle counseled: "As you continue to face many challenging choices in life, remember, there is great protection when you know who you are, why you are here and where you are going. Let your unique identity shape each decision you make on the path toward your eternal destiny. Accountability for your choices now will bear on all that lies ahead."