Elder L. Tom Perry on building a solid foundation for life's challenges

Elder L. Tom Perry (1922-2015) was called as an Assistant to the Twelve in 1972, then as a member of the Quorum of Twelve Apostles in 1974. At the time of his passing at age 92, he was the oldest living general authority and the third in seniority among the leading quorum.

"Our journey through life has periods of both good times and bad. Each presents different challenges. How we learn to adjust to the changes which come along depends on the foundation on which we build. The gospel of our Lord and Savior provides a sure and solid foundation. It is constructed piece by piece as we gain knowledge of the Lord's eternal plan for His children. The Savior is the Master Teacher. We follow Him.

"The scriptures testify of Him and provide an example of perfect righteousness for us to follow....

"Men and women are shaped partly by those among whom they choose to live. Those to whom they look up and try to emulate also shape them. Jesus is the great Exemplar. The only way to find lasting peace is to look to Him and live."

- L. Tom Perry, "Finding Lasting Peace and Building Eternal Families," Ensign, November 2014, pp. 43-45
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Everything in life is built on a foundation of one kind or another. The decisions we make, the way we react to challenges, how we interact with others—all of these things depend on previous foundations of decisions, commitments, and patterns we have established in our lives. Elder Perry identifies the solid foundation of "the gospel of our Lord and Savior" as being the most reliable. We build that foundation "piece by piece" through our study, service, faith, and commitment.

The most sure way to build a solid foundation is to always look to the Savior as our model and friend. As we strive to emulate Him in all we do, our foundation becomes dependable and secure; we are better prepared to adjust to the changing circumstances of life.