Eighty-four years ago, Elder David O. McKay visited Laie and envisioned a Church school of higher learning. This vision culminated in BYU–Hawaii, an institution where students from around the world gather. Today, we honor President McKay and reflect on guidelines for a fulfilling life.
A Legacy of Faith and Education: Honoring David O. McKay
President David O. McKay, a giant of the Lord, extended to me my call to the apostleship. He understood people and he had a kind heart.
Image depicting David O. McKay, former president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasizing his role as an influential leader and educator.
He observed kindness when I entered his office to review some printing proofs. President McKay was making conversation with me and asked, “Brother Monson, do you believe that William Shakespeare really wrote the sonnets attributed to him?”
Four Guiding Principles for Your Journey
As you navigate your education and life, consider these four guiding principles: prepare properly, serve willingly, live honorably, and pray earnestly. May God Guide You In Your Quest as you embrace these principles.
Prepare Properly: Laying the Foundation for Success
Preparation is key to navigating life’s choices. Remember, “If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear” (D&C 38:30).
Image featuring students studying together, highlighting the importance of academic preparation and collaborative learning.
An educated person is one who can accomplish things. Spiritual preparation is also essential. Acquire a testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ—an anchor to the soul.
Serve Willingly: Finding Fulfillment in Helping Others
The Lord requires a willing heart and mind (D&C 64:34). When you serve others, you also serve God. As King Benjamin taught, “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17).
Image of a person helping another, emphasizing the importance of selfless service and compassion in building stronger communities.
Let us pray for inspiration to guide us to those needing our help. I felt the unmistakable prompting to visit Ben and Emily, hearts were touched and souls saved.
Live Honorably: Choosing the Path of Righteousness
Avoid detours that deprive you of your celestial reward. Let your light shine before men (Matthew 5:16). Our code of conduct should be guided by “What will I think of myself?”
Image of a temple, symbolizing a commitment to living honorably, upholding moral principles, and seeking spiritual growth.
Brother Gustav Wacker, a barber, exemplified honorable living through his service and devotion. His strength came from obedience.
Pray Earnestly: Seeking Divine Guidance
May God guide you in your quest. As we pursue eternal life, we will face many challenges. God knows the way and His counsel can lead us to life eternal. Our Heavenly Father is there to listen, love, and inspire.
Image of a young girl praying, symbolizing the importance of personal prayer and seeking guidance from a higher power.
Prayer provides power and peace. The Apostle would visit our tiny village at Sauniatu, and, through their faith, he would be impressed to greet each child with a personal hand clasp.
A Testimony and a Blessing
I testify that God lives, that Jesus is the Christ. May God guide you in your quest to remember who you are and what you can become. May you choose the right, honor your parents, love and serve God and your fellow man. May you have peace and contentment.
