I have been thinking recently about choices and their consequences. As I’ve contemplated the various aspects of choice, I’ve put them into three categories.

1. FROM CHURCH LEADERS
HOW TO MAKE GOOD DECISIONS
I
have been thinking recently about choices right now not to deviate from the path
and their consequences. As I’ve contem- which will lead to our goal: eternal life with our
plated the various aspects of choice, I’ve put Father in Heaven.
them into three categories. 3. The Results of Choice
All of our choices have conse-
1. The Right of Choice quences, some of which have little or nothing
President David O. McKay said, “Next to to do with our eternal salvation and others of
the bestowal of life itself, the right to direct that which have everything to do with it.
By President life is God’s greatest gift to man” (Teachings Whether you wear a green T-shirt or a
Thomas S. Monson
of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay blue one makes no difference in the long
[2003], 208). Within the confines of whatever run. However, whether you decide to push
circumstances we find ourselves, we will a key on your computer which will take you
FOR THE always have the right to choose. to pornography can make all the difference
STRENGTH OF
in your life. If a friend pressures you to drink
YOUTH
2. The Responsibility of Choice alcohol or to try drugs and you succumb to the
“You are responsible
With the right of choice comes the responsi- pressure, you are taking a detour from which
for the choices you
bility to choose. Our Heavenly Father provided you may not return. May we keep our eyes,
make. . . . You have the
ability to choose righ- the means whereby we could receive from our hearts, and our determination
teousness and happi- Him God-given guidance. I speak of focused on that goal which is eternal
ness, no matter what prayer, of the whisperings from that and worth any price we will have to pay.
your circumstances. still, small voice within each of us, and the You are of a noble birthright. Eternal life in
“You are also holy scriptures. Each of us has come to the kingdom of our Father is your goal.
responsible for devel-
this earth with all the tools necessary to make From the October 2010 general conference
oping the abilities and address “The Three Rs of Choice” (Ensign,
talents Heavenly Father correct choices. The prophet Mormon tells us, Nov. 2010, 67–70).
has given you. You are “The Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that
accountable to Him for he may know good
what you do with your from evil”
abilities and how (Moroni 7:16).
you spend your Share Your Experiences
To make deci- Share your experiences in applying
time.“
sions wisely, this principle and read the experiences
For the of other youth by going to lds.org/
Strength of courage is go/114.
Youth
(2001), 5.
needed—the
courage to say
no, the courage to
say yes. I plead with
you to make a
determination
48 N e w E r a