Messages of inspiration from President Thomas S. Monson
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Moral courage
A moral coward is one who is afraid to do what he thinks is right because others will disapprove or laugh. Remember that all men have their fears, but those who face their fears with dignity have courage as well. — "The Call for Courage," Ensign, May 2004, 54
Reach up for help
If we are on the Lord's errand, we are entitled to the Lord's help. That divine help, however, is predicated upon our worthiness. To sail safely the seas of mortality, to perform a human rescue mission, we need the guidance of that eternal mariner — even the great Jehovah. We reach out, we reach up, to obtain heavenly help. — "Your Eternal Voyage," Ensign, May 2000, 46
Small and simple things
Often small acts of service are all that is required to lift and bless another: a question concerning a person's family, quick words of encouragement, a sincere compliment, a small note of thanks, a brief telephone call. If we are observant and aware, and if we act on the promptings which come to us, we can accomplish much good. — "Three Goals to Guide You," general Relief Society meeting, Sept. 2007
Language of the Spirit
The language of the Spirit comes to him who seeks with all his heart to know God and to keep His divine commandments. Proficiency in this language permits one to breach barriers, overcome obstacles, and touch the human heart. — " 'The Spirit Giveth Life,' " Ensign, May 1985, 68
Celestial journey
It must not be expected that the road of life spreads itself in an unobstructed view before the person starting her journey. You must anticipate coming upon forks and turnings in the road. But you cannot hope to reach your desired journey's end if you think aimlessly about whether to go east or west. You must make your decisions purposefully.
As Lewis Carroll tells us in his well-known "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland," Alice was following a path through a forest in Wonderland when it divided in two directions. Standing irresolute, she inquired of the Cheshire cat, which had suddenly appeared in a nearby tree, which path she should take. "Where do you want to go?" asked the cat.
"I don't know," said Alice.
"Then," said the cat, "it really doesn't matter, does it?"
We know where we want to go. Do we have the resolution — even the faith — to get there? — "Your Celestial Journey," general Young Women meeting, March 1999
Pause at the crossroads
My brothers and sisters, today there are hearts to gladden, there are deeds to be done — even precious souls to save. The sick, the weary, the hungry, the cold, the injured, the lonely, the aged, the wanderer — all cry out for our help.
The road signs of life enticingly invite every traveler: This way to fame; this way to affluence; this way to popularity; this way to luxury. Pause at the crossroads before you continue your journey. Listen for that still, small voice, which ever so gently beckons, "Come, follow me. This way to Jericho." — "Your Jericho Road," Ensign, May 1977, 71
Mind and heart
Only the human mind has the capacity for creativity, imagination, insight, vision and responsibility. And I urge you to develop your heart with your mind, to care as well as to think. — "Guideposts for Life's Journey," BYU-Idaho Commencement, Aug. 2003
True love
The challenge which we face and must meet is not that we should go forth on the battlefield of war and lay down our lives. Rather, it is that we, on the battlefield of life, so live and serve that our lives and actions reflect a true love of God, of His Son, Jesus Christ, and of our fellowmen. — "Those Who Love Jesus," Ensign, Nov. 1985, 33
