Stand and Shine Magazine May 2014 | Page 38

girl, my grandma didn’t know the impact feelings and circumstances of those around she would have on my life. She couldn’t us.” imagine the generations she would touch with that decision. Years ago, President Monson gave a talk that encouraged us to express our love to While her actions may have seen small at one another. At the time, I was in college the time, they had big consequences. I be- and dating a cute boy. Fear kept me from lieve that is what Sister Burton spoke about saying those three words to him, but Presi- when she said this: dent Monson’s words brought me peace. The next day I told my future husband that I “Sometimes we are tempted to give up or turn back because maybe we think we can’t do it alone. And we are right! We cannot do the difficult things we have been asked to do without help. Help comes through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, the guidance of the Holy Ghost, and the helping hands of others.” loved him, and I’ve never regretted it. Now, I am reminded that love is more than just saying three words. I can show my love every second depending on how I treat my family. No one’s going to believe the words, “I love you,” if I am constantly arguing or upset with my loved ones. The thing I want my family and friends to remember about me is that I love them. We need each other. Sometimes we are the Just as importantly, I need to remember helping hands. Other times we need the how much God loves me. I have felt His help. I need to do a better job of recogniz- love many times, but too often I look in the ing those around me who strengthen me mirror and think of only negative things. If and try to find ways to give back. He can love me no matter what, then I should love me no matter what. Remembering Love Six Month Challenge Thomas S. Monson spoke of love being the essence of the gospel. He said, “Usually The words of our prophets are available at our love will be shown in our day-to-day in- the click of a button. Over the next six teractions. I would hope that we would months, I challenge you to read or listen to strive to be sensitive to the thoughts and all of this April conference before next Octo-