Counsel to Young Men

My thoughts on Elder Packer's talk "Counsel to Young Men"

As a mom to young men, can I tell you how much I loved this talk. Now if only my young men would read it and ponder it and live it.

"The priesthood is something you cannot see nor hear nor touch, but it is a real authority and a real power."

I have felt its power as of late. It is truly amazing that my sons hold it and I can use it.

"You may see others who seem to have been given a more perfect body than yours. do not fall into the trap of feeling poorly about your height or weight or your features or your skin color or race."

I know how hard it was for me growing up around beauty queens and even having brothers who were so good looking. It was so hard. Now it is very hard and just going to get harder as my body falls apart tying to repair itself. I do feel poorly about my body, but thankfully I understand its necessity for my progression. I don't think my boys feel too bad about their bodies. They are all so cute and handsome, but I'm also their mom. I know they wish they were taller, more muscular, but that is the body they were born with and they will make the most of what genes they were given. I hope they understand the necessity of it and treat it with the respect a temple deserves.

"You will be tested as you prepare yourself to return to our Heavenly Father."

Boy is my family feeling the truthfulness of this statement. And our tests aren't done.

"Do not run with friends that worry your parents."

I know that was said for the 12-25 year old crowd, but what about us? Do we run, hang, or esteem a crowd that might make our (heavenly) parents worry? Thankfully I think I'm safe.

"Everywhere present is the influence of Lucifer and his legion of angels. They tempt you to do those things and say those things and think those things that would destroy. Resist every impulse that will trouble your spirit."

I love that phrase, "trouble your spirit." What have I done lately to "trouble my spirit"? What have I not done that might "trouble my spirit?"

I love President Packer's advice about schooling. HERE HERE! I'm so glad the church has placed great emphasis on education. My father-in-law (like my own mother) picked the Perpetual Education Fund as their place to donate instead of sending flowers. I hope my kids do that for me (in 40 years). There is so much good being done for families, communities and for the world when we have educated children. A work force with knowledge can move mountains!

"The certainties of the gospel, the truth, once you understand it, will see you through these difficult times."
AMEN! That is how I'm making it day to day--prayer and holding to the rod. I would drown otherwise.

"The very foundation of human life, of all society, is the family, established by the first commandment to Adam and Eve, our first parents: 'Multiply, and replenish the earth.'"

"Be a responsible member of your family. Take care of your possessions your clothing, your property. Do not be wasteful. Learn to be content."
"Do not be afraid! I do not fear."

I love the emphasis on families!
I love the last like: I DO NOT FEAR! I do not fear! I will not fear! I will hold tight to the promises I have made. I will live with my family again.