Standing for Something

I was going through my library and found one of my favorite books.  It called to me like an old friend.  It reminded me how important it is to remember my standards and my values and to use them in every part of my life.  My old and dear friend is titled, "Standing For Something" and it is by Gordon B. Hinckley.

I gave my older children copies of this book.  I think it is time that I gave the younger ones copies too.  I love this book because he tells of ten virtues that will make a difference in our lives.  He talks about America and the problems that our country is having.  He tells us that we (meaning the American people) have forgotten God and that we no longer obey His commandments and teachings.  We no longer honor virtues that were a part of the founding of this great country.  
Here is a list of the ten virtues from this book:

1) Love: Love can erase difference between people and can heal bitterness. It can touch hearts and mend souls.

2) Honesty: When we are dishonest, something within us dies. Self respect vanishes and integrity dies when we are dishonest with ourselves or others.

3) Morality: Both experience and divine wisdom dictate that moral virtue and cleanliness pave the way that leads to strength of character, peace of mind and heart, and happiness in life.

4) Civility: Civility carries with it the essence of courtesy, politeness, and consideration of others. All of the education and accomplishments in the world will not count for much unless they are accompanied by respect for others, and going the extra mile.

5) Learning: No matter how old we become, we can acquire knowledge and use it. We can gather wisdom and profit from it. We can grow and progress and improve- and, in the process, strengthen the lives of those within our circle of influence.

6) The Twin Virtues of Forgiveness and Mercy: Hatred always fails and bitterness always destroys. In our days, we need to apply the virtues of forgiving, forgetting and extending mercy.

7) Thrift and Industry: The virtues of industry and thrift go hand in hand. The labor and thrift of the people make a nation, a community, or a family strong. Work and thrift make the family independent.

8) Gratitude: A Sign of Maturity: Gratitude is the beginning of civility, it is a recognition that we cannot afford to be arrogant. It is a knowledge that we will need help every step of the way.

9) Optimism in the Face of Cynicism: As we go through life, we need to "accentuate the positive." We need to look a little deeper for the good. We need to still our voices of insult and sarcasm and more generously compliment and endorse virtue and effort.

10) Faith: Our Only Hope: Great buildings were never constructed on uncertain foundations. Great causes were never brought to success by vacillating leaders. Faith has always been , and always must be, at the root of any meaningful practice and endeavor.

"In leadership, in standing for principle, there is loneliness. But men and women of integrity must live with their convictions. Unless they do so, they are miserable - dreadfully miserable...

Never in the history of the world has there been a more profound need for leaders of principle to step forward".  Gordon B. Hinckley

 My prayer is that you will implement these ten virtues in your life and "Stand for Something" so that you do not fall for anything that the adversary sends your way.  May you always have a testimony that your Heavenly Father loves you and is aware of you.  That He sent His son to suffer, bleed and die for your sins.  That you can be forgiven and have life eternal with Him.  May you always stand as a beacon on a hill that can not be hid, and may the something that you stand for always be the Savior.