- “Just believing, just having a molecule of faith—simply hoping for things which are not yet seen in our lives, but which are nevertheless truly there to be bestowed (see )—that simple step, when focused on the Lord Jesus Christ, has ever been and always will be the first principle of His eternal gospel, the first step out of despair.” Broken Things to Mend (Jeffrey R. Holland)- Kindle Location: 59-61
- “Often those who struggle with adversity ask the question ‘why did this happen to me?’ They spend sleepless nights wondering why they feel so lonely, sick, discouraged, oppressed, or brokenhearted. The question ‘why me?’ can be a difficult one to answer and often leads to frustration and despair. There is a better question to ask ourselves. That question is ‘what could I learn from this experience?’ The way we answer that question may determine the quality of our lives not only on this earth but also in the eternities to come. Though our trials are diverse, there is one thing the Lord expects of us no matter our difficulties and sorrows: He expects us to press on.” (Joseph B. Wirthlin,Ensign, Nov. 2004, 101)
- “We have every reason to be optimistic in this world. Tragedy is around, yes. Problems everywhere, yes. But you can’t, you don’t, build out of pessimism or cynicism. You look with optimism, work with faith, and things happen. Do not despair. Do not give up. Look for the sunlight through the clouds. Opportunities will eventually open to you. Do not let the prophets of gloom endanger your possibilities.” Teachings of the Presidents of the Church: Gordon B Hinkley, Chapter 3, Cultivating an Attitude of Happiness and a Spirit of Optimism