“Therefore, that we should waste and wear out our lives in bringing to light all the hidden things of darkness, wherein we know them; and they are truly manifest from heaven— These should then be attended to with great earnestness…
Let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed.”
(Doctrine and Covenants 123:13-14, 17)
Throughout my life I’ve watched my dad stand for truth and call out encroachments to freedom — all with a grace and cheerful calmness that passes all understanding.
Many believe that those who stand for time tested principles are filled with hate and anger. While some might be, that is not a requirement for standing for truth. In fact, my father has been very effective in teaching others freedom principles without ever losing his temper.
I asked him once how he does it. How can he not get angry about the things that are subverting our freedoms? How does he maintain his cheerful attitude? He said he’s not perfect. Sometimes he does get angry at what he sees, but he’s found that being angry is not effective.
And he’s right. Anger doesn’t educate. It doesn’t soften hearts. It doesn’t bring enlightenment. It’s not effective.