Motivation

You know that I am a quote nut. Carefully placed phrases, articulate ideas, and prose give me a thrill. Is that weird? Well maybe, but it's still true.

It may be hard to believe at first, but a powerful concept, a clearly expressed idea, or the turn of a phrase can change your life. I’d like to share a couple of my favorite selections with you. Then afterward, I will tell you why I like them:

Aristotle is credited with saying "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."

The following quote came from President Uchtdorf's conference address The Most Powerful Motivating Force. (audio)

The testimony of the truthfulness of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ is the most powerful motivating force in our lives. Jesus repeatedly emphasized the power of good thoughts and proper motives: “Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not” (D&C 6:36).

Now some words from Grandpa's testimony
"Our Moab seminary teacher and his wife spoke in the Castle Valley branch some time ago. Her talk was on a matter I have long been concerned about. The problem comes into perspective at a sacrament meeting: Adults as well as children give tender loving praise for bishops, teachers, neighbors, and the prophet etc. But too few feel and express it for the Savior. We are not achieving our most important goal until we have established in the hearts of our children and the saints, an even greater love for Him. Friends may betray us, spouses may leave us, health may fail, and our possessions burn up. But Christ, His promises, understanding, and love will never fail us. With some trials and most tragedies, only this can get us through. When we can take a thankless, demanding calling; give up something we wanted greatly, so we can pay our tithing; or help out someone who has badly hurt us ... and say "I wouldn't do that for anyone, except I'll do it for Christ!" ... then the power for good he can have in our lives is becoming a reality. He must be the foundation of our lives."

So putting this altogether,

• We are the product of our habits.
• The gospel of Jesus Christ is the most powerful force in our lives.
• Especially when we face tough decisions, our love for the Savior Jesus Christ can propel us to make the good choices.

"I wouldn't do that for anyone, except I'll do it for Christ!"

Live that concept everyday, and it will change your life.