I wanted to take a break from reading novels and read something meaningful so I looked up (President) Hinckley in the library catalog under authors. I was happy to see that he had a couple of books there so I checked them out.I finished this book today and to no surprised found it quite inspirational. If you don't know already, Gordon B. Hinckley was the leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1995-2008, hence known as president or prophet to the LDS members. As you know, I am Mormon so one might conclude this review will be biased on my part. Actually, having the same beliefs allows me to understand his messages much more in depth.
This book started with kind words of Foreword by Mike Wallace followed by a gripping Introductory that set the tone for the messages to come next ... the ten virtues and the two guardians of virtue. These include: love, honesty, morality, civility, learning, forgiveness and mercy, thrift and industry, gratitude, optimism, and faith; and marriage and family being the guardians. In words of matter-of-fact and through examples in his life, President Hinckley relays the plea of the healing powers of these virtues to restore America to it's original purpose. America forgot that it holds power to use the freedom it stands for to safeguard humanity. It has forgotten that God is the source of strength. Instead, America is enslaved in the horrifying societal challenges and virtue is becoming things of the past. President Hinckley exhorts us to stand for something again. To be accountable and live our lives according to godly virtues. To come to know that we are sons and daughters of Heavenly Father and so our existence is precious, meaningful, and purposeful.
I took particular care to read the marriage section of this book. I have friends that have and going through divorce. I felt helpless at no offer of wisdom for them. I could not relate to their circumstances and any words of plea to try to save the marriage came at deaf ear. All I could say is to sincerely plead to Heavenly Father for guidance. Now, after reading this book, I could refer them to this section and perhaps find some understanding in a prophet's counsel. In brief I will list his suggestion of four cornerstones on which to establish and nurture marriages and homes: (1) mutual respect and loyalty to one another, (2) soft answer (see Prov 15:1; communicate in calm language, not anger), (3) financial honesty, and (4) prayer.
If I want these virtues instilled in my children, then it starts with me living by them! In our home, Dave and I must work together to provide a loving and learning environment for these virtues to thrive and pass to our children and generations thereafter. Indeed, home is where it begins.
This is an amazing book. I highly recommend it and I believe you will find it a great source of reference for sound counsel.
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I'd heard this was a great book, Jinky, but hadn't seen a review on it. Based upon your review (I trust your judgment), it's on my TBR list. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteSo I never read books like this, but it does sound like it would be inspirational. It is unfortunate that such values are no longer instilled within our children as common practice. Meaning that there are few parents who make the effort to be the difference in their children's lives. My husband and I take the time and I am glad to hear that you are as well. I get very worried over the things that they are exposed to these days. It is crazy how much the world has changed since I was a kid and that wasn't all that long ago. Also, my husband and I are the only ones with the exception of one other who are still married. It is just unbelievable. Thanks for the review. I will try to make my way to this book for a change of pace. :)
ReplyDeleteKendra @ Reader's Edyn