Young Women: A Light to the World

by Miriam Caldwell | More from this Blogger

26 Apr 2006 06:39 PM

Every spring, the week before General Conference, the church holds a General Young Women's Meeting for the entire church. This is a very wonderful and spiritual evening in which the members of the general Young Women's presidency, and an apostle or a member of the first presidency speak to the young women.

Susan W. Tanner, the general Young Women's president, gave a talk titled "I Am the Light Which Ye Shall Hold Up." This is a wonderful talk. Sister Tanner talks to the young women about what they can do in their homes and families to share the light of Christ with their family members. She says:

"In these preparatory years, you young women spend much of your time in schools or jobs where you receive accolades, honors, awards, ribbons, or trophies. When you move from that stage to young motherhood, there is a dramatic drop-off in outside commendation. Yet in no other capacity is there more opportunity to serve selflessly as Christ would do by taking care of hundreds of daily physical, emotional, and spiritual needs. You will bring the light of the gospel into your homes-not to be seen of others, but to build others-men and women of strength and light."

She goes on and shares a story of one young girl who had joined the church, and through her example of love and peace she was able to share the gospel with her family. She encourages the young women that they can also share the light of Christ with those around them. She says:

"Each of you has light. As I look into your faces here tonight and as I remember your faces that I have seen as I have traveled throughout the world, I see light glowing in your countenances, 'even as the faces of angels' (Helaman 5:36). In a world overshadowed with the darkness of sin, the faces of Nephi and Lehi, Helaman's sons, 'did shine exceedingly' (Helaman 5:36). Those surrounding them wanted that same light and inquired, 'What shall we do, that this cloud of darkness may be removed from overshadowing us?' (Helaman 5:40). They were taught to repent and have faith in Jesus Christ. As they did this, the cloud of darkness dispersed and they were encircled with light, a pillar of fire, and filled with unspeakable joy from the Holy Spirit (see Helaman 5:43-45).

As you share your light, others will find greater light too. Is there anyone who needs your light as much as your families? I see you remarkable young women with your glowing countenances as the strength of the present and the hope of the future in your homes and in the Church. Jesus Christ is the light that we must hold up. 'He is the light, the life, and the hope of the world. His way is the path that leads to happiness in this life and eternal life in the world to come' ("The Living Christ: The Testimony of the Apostles," Liahona and Ensign, Apr. 2000, 2-3). May we each shine on with His light, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

This is a wonderful talk, and I hope that you will take the opportunity to read it and discuss it with your family. If you and your daughter missed the session you can read the transcripts at www.lds.org.

Learn more about Miriam Caldwell

Miriam is a SAHM mom of three children. She has a daughter who is seven, and two sons, four and two. She loves being a parent and spending time with her children.

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