2012 ABC's by Thomas S. Monson

The first presidency delivered a message starting the new year, it is a great one. It takes about making this year the year that we undergo a personal and diligent quest for a life filled with success, blessings, and goodness. That doesn't mean there won't be times of trials and moments of weakness -- The Prophet talks about a way we can go through the challenges.

Thomas S. Monson talks about the ABC's of creating the "Abundant Life".

A -- Have a positive attitude. So much of life depends on our attitude, the way we choose to see things and react to things can make the difference. To be the best we can be and be happy with our situations however they may seem can be us peace and happiness from the Lord.  We have no idea what affect having a positive attitude can do to our lives or other people's life.

"We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails. For maximum happiness, peace, and contentment, may we choose a positive attitude." - Thomas S. Monson

B -- Believe in Yourself. Believe in yourself, in others, and in the eternal plan and principles. Believing in yourself can show you glimpses of the Lord sees and has planned for you to become. Don't let others set your limitations, your potential is endless. Don't limit yourself for you can't see what you are meant to become. Believe in yourself and strive to live so you can reach your possibilities.

"You can achieve what you believe you can. Trust and believe and have faith." - Thomas S. Monson

C -- To Face Challenges with Courage. Courage doesn't come straight from willing to die manfully but to live decently in the a world of chaos.  David and Goliath, David didn't have the mind-set that he would take down the giant and become a hero. He had courage to stand for his beliefs and his people and He won. So in our times of difficulties were the road may seem too hard and unbeatable but remember David won and so can you.

"Courage is required to make an initial thrust toward one’s coveted goal, but even greater courage is called for when one stumbles and must make a second effort to achieve." -Thomas S. Monson

I know reading message at the beginning of a new year is a great motivation kick to live this year like a true believer strive to live the ABC's. I would love to say I have a great ending to this topic but I don't but I know someone who summed it up perfectly.

"Have the determination to make the effort, the single-mindedness to work toward a worthy goal, and the courage not only to face the challenges that inevitably come but also to make a second effort, should such be required. Sometimes courage is the little voice at the end of the day that says, “I’ll try again tomorrow.”May we remember these ABCs as we begin our journey into the new year, cultivating a positive attitude, a belief that we can achieve our goals and resolutions, and the courage to face whatever challenges may come our way. Then the abundant life will be ours."  - Thomas S. Monson.