Sunday, January 22, 2012

George Albert Smith Aspired to Loftiest of Goodness

Don't know that I have heard of any other person -- other than Christ -- aspiring to any higher ideals than did George Albert Smith, president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1945 to 1951.

You must read his personal creed to decide if you agree. In it, we find as lofty of ambition to do good as you should find most anywhere.

I first read his creed as a young man, probably while I was at Ricks College, and the line, "I would be a friend to the friendless," has been a positive influence on me ever since.

Though the creed is little known, I think it worthy of great attention. If it were popular, and given mass attention, and considered a great document, I think that would be worthy.

The creed:

"I would be a friend to the friendless and find joy in ministering to the needs of the poor.

"I would visit the sick and afflicted and inspire in them a desire for faith to be healed.

"I would teach the truth to the understanding and blessing of all mankind.

"I would seek out the erring one and try to win him back to a righteous and happy life.

"I would not seek to force people to live up to my ideals but rather love them into doing the thing that is right.

"I would live with the masses and help to solve their problems that their earth life may be happy.

"I would avoid the publicity of high positions and discourage the flattery of thoughtless friends.

"I would not knowingly wound the feelings of any, not even one who may have wronged me, but would seek to do him good and make him my friend.

"I would overcome the tendency to selfishness and jealousy and rejoice in the successes of all the children of my Heavenly Father.

"I would not be an enemy to any living soul.

"Knowing that the Redeemer of mankind has offered to the world the only plan that will fully develop us and make us really happy here and hereafter, I feel it not only a duty but also a blessed privilege to disseminate this truth."

 

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