Marvin J. Ashton on carrying on

Elder Marvin J. Ashton (1915-1994) served as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles from 1971 until his death in 1994 at age 78.

"Just before our esteemed, honored Apostle and special friend of Aaronic Priesthood and their leaders worldwide, Elder Bruce R. McConkie, passed away... with his sweetheart and eternal companion, Amelia, at his bedside, some very significant words were shared. As Sister McConkie held his hand during his final earthly minutes, she asked, 'Bruce, do you have a message for me?' Though weak and expiring, he responded in a firm voice his last words, 'Carry on.'

"Here was one of God's choicest servants, who had studied, pondered, and written as extensively on the life and mission of Jesus Christ as anyone else in his time, using these two powerful words for direction and encouragement. Sister McConkie has since shared with me the great importance and strength of 'carry on' as time has passed....

"Enduring, or carrying on, is not just a matter of tolerating circumstances and hanging in there, but of pressing forward. I know that's what most of us find difficult—to endure joyfully....

"Fifty-nine years ago [in 1930], when this beautiful number, 'Carry On,' was first shared with the Church in general, to say that it was timely is an understatement. Today it should be a way of life, our top priority and clarion call for young and old. Young people, boys and girls, and leaders worldwide, I encourage you to carry on. Do not give up, falter, or become weary. Do not yield to the ways of the world that can only bring unhappiness and discouragement....

"Jesus is the Christ. He is our Redeemer, our Lord and Savior and friend. We constantly give thanks through deeds and prayer for his unmatched example of carrying on under circumstances that caused him to bleed from every pore and anguish in the misunderstanding and misconduct of his associates. Joy and happiness come through determination and the practice of carrying on under all conditions."

- Marvin J. Ashton, "Stalwart and Brave We Stand," Ensign, November 1989, pp. 36-37
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The story of Elder McConkie's final words to his wife is not surprising. He was firm and committed to the doctrine and practices of the Church throughout his life, and the idea of enduring faithfully would have been natural to him. The simple expression of that concept in the words "carry on" is a good reminder, "using these two powerful words for direction and encouragement."

It's now been 85 years since the hymn "Carry On" was first shared with the Church, and the message is even more timely. As Elder Ashton encourages all of us, "Do not give up, falter, or become weary. Do not yield to the ways of the world that can only bring unhappiness and discouragement." As we follow the Savior's example, we'll be blessed in those efforts to endure in faithfulness, and will truly realize that "Joy and happiness come through determination and the practice of carrying on under all conditions."