In explaining the position of young women she used the phrase "walk in the paths of virtue" and expanded this to the walk the was done by the young women of the Alpine, Utah area 22 miles to the Salt Lake Temple. That is a long walk but represented the distance walked by John Rowe Moyle on one good leg and a wooden leg to do his part in building that edifice. The example included the instruction to be Guardians of Virtue and was magnified by using the people involved in the walk as "guardians" helping along the way and helping them protect the young women during the walk. Our young women are helped along the way to the Temple by their family, the adult leaders, the Bishop, and their faithful friends. The objective is to one day arrive at the Temple and enter worthy to receive the sealing blessings that are only available there. In reality, some will take longer than others to make this trip and the temptations and obstacles in the path will be there and must be overcome to arrive and enter. The path has been carefully laid out and explained and all of us have the opportunity to follow that path once it is explained to us.
Later in the talk she gave the young women a very definite challenge to do something. She explained that at the young age of 12 she made two lists, one a list of things she would always do and the other a list of things she would never do. The list was written. Whatever our age, we all would do well to write such a list. I remember such a list that I discussed with one of my friends at a young age. Some of the items on such a list today may require you to make changes in what you are doing now. My advice is the same that Shirlyn posted on our wall; "Just Do It." Things to consider for your list might include:
- Obey the Word of Wisdom
- Pray daily
- Pay Tithing
- Commit to never miss church
- Serve when called
- Obey the law of chastity
Of course you would also consider your role as a virtuous woman and a "guardian" of others needing your help and example.
Loved her remarks! I know it was to the YW but to other women as well. "Strive to always be worthy to make and keep sacred covenants and receive the ordinances of the temple in preparation to enjoy the blessings of exaltation. Your years in YW will prepare you for the temple. There you will receive the blessings to which you are entitled as a precious daughter of God. Your Heavenly Father loves you and wants you to be happy. Young women, in a world every growing in moral pollution, tolerance of evil, exploitation of women, and distortion of roles, you must stand guard of yourself, your family, and all those with whom you associate." It just reminded me that we must never give up on anybody but do all we can to help each other be the best we can be.
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