Approaching an ungated railroad crossing, a motorist noticed this warning sign: Stop. Look. Listen.

The warning was to let motorists know trains still ran regularly on this set of tracks, but one never knew when one would approach, so the warning was to let motorists use their senses before proceeding. It was simply an added precaution to avoid a potentially dangerous situation — an added measure of safety.

As thousands gather at the Conference Center and onto Temple Square in Salt Lake City for the 177th Semiannual General Conference, we, too, can take this safety message to stop, look and listen, as our leaders instruct and counsel us. Our own safety and protection depend on us taking their counsel to heart as we reflect on the gospel messages given by those called to lead us.

The Doctrine and Covenants opens with these words: "Hearken, O ye people of my church... For verily the voice of the Lord is unto all men... And the voice of warning shall be unto all people, by the mouths of my disciples, whom I have chosen in these last days" (Doctrine and Covenants 1:1-4).

General conferences give us an opportunity to see our leaders, hear their words and to participate in the business of a worldwide Church. Television, radio, satellite and the Internet make attendance at one or all of the sessions available to millions across the globe. In many cases, we do not even need to leave our homes to participate, but when we do gather with others at the Conference Center or at other Church buildings around the world, we have the opportunity to feel of the Spirit, sing the hymns of Zion together and to fellowship with the saints. To hear the inspired words and hear the music of the various choirs enhance our understanding and our experience.

Those who don't have the opportunity to attend in person or watch conference sessions as they occur may view them at a later time and read the texts when they are posted on the Church Web site, lds.org, or are published in the November issue of the Ensign.

As we put aside our worldly endeavors for a few hours to listen to or watch conference proceedings, we can be blessed by partaking of the messages of hope given in each session.

Many hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir during the weekly broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word. The hymns of Zion sung by this choir and other choirs lend a spiritual air to the conference's spoken messages.

As we take an opportunity to embrace the sights, sounds and spirit of this conference, let us remember that it is upon each of us to ponder, reflect and gain from this experience. If we put aside the messages too quickly we will surely miss the real purpose of conference — to hear our leaders bear strong testimony of the Savior, His life, work and gospel and to witness to the restoration of His Church through the Prophet Joseph Smith. The restored Church moves forward, guided by inspired leaders and filled with faithful members the world over.

Conferences remind us that we are all part of a great body of saints who have heeded the warnings, and help us learn of our duties. Our goal should be to leave each conference determined to put into practice those things that we need to improve upon in order to join with other Latter-day Saints and move this work forward.