Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf on the influence of women in the lives of youth and children

Elder Dieter F. Uchtdorf (born November 6, 1940) served as a Seventy from 1994-2004, when he was called as a member of the Quorum of Twelve.  He served as second counselor in the First Presidency from 2008 to 2018.

"As we look at the history of this earth and at the history of the restored Church of Jesus Christ, it becomes obvious that women hold a special place in our Father’s plan for the eternal happiness and well-being of His children.

"I hope that my dear sisters throughout the world—grandmothers, mothers, aunts, and friends—never underestimate the power of their influence for good, especially in the lives of our precious children and youth!...

"There is a saying that big gates move on small hinges. Sisters, your example in seemingly small things will make a big difference in the lives of our young people. The way you dress and groom yourselves, the way you talk, the way you pray, the way you testify, the way you live every day will make the difference. This includes which TV shows you watch, which music you prefer, and how you use the Internet. If you love to go to the temple, the young people who value your example will also love to go. If you adapt your wardrobe to the temple garment and not the other way around, they will know what you consider important, and they will learn from you.

"You are marvelous sisters and great examples. Our youth are blessed by you, and the Lord loves you for that."

- Dieter F. Uchtdorf, "The Influence of Righeous Women," Ensign, Sept 2009, pp. 2-7
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This article, written as a monthly First Presidency Message when President Uchtdorf was serving as a counselor to President Monson, shares doctrine and encouragement about the sacred role of righteous women in God's plan of happiness. President Uchtdorf expressed a vision of the potential for good that they have in so many ways:

The description of the example of righteous women and the influence that small things can have is a powerful reminder. Those "seemingly small things" that include appearance, speech, choices of priorities, and dress truly can "make a big difference in the lives of our young people." How important for all of us, women and men alike, to consider carefully the messages we are sharing!

The rest of the article contains personal stories of President Uchtdorf's family, and additional counsel that is well worth reviewing particularly for women, but also for men as we consider how we esteem and treat the women in our lives.

(Compilation and commentary by David Kenison, Orem, Utah, 2018)