2012 Letter

Dear Friend and Fellow Scout:

Congratulations on reaching the top of the mountain!  I can see in my mind’s eye the incredible view you must have of the surrounding peaks, the slopes and valleys that lie below you.  I wish I were there with you!  I can also imagine the feeling of satisfaction you have after completing the strenuous hike that led you to the summit. Great job! 

I hope you have successfully used your mirror to communicate with other scouts on nearby peaks.  Isn’t it exciting to see the light of another from a great distance, flashing across the sky?  The opportunity to use your mirror to reflect light from the sun to others is a special one and carries a strong message for all who worked to reach the top of the mountains. The view you now have testifies of the existence of God, your Heavenly Father, who created all that you see and more.  You are one of His precious sons, His most glorious creation.  He created in His image the magnificent physical body that you used to reach this mountain top. He knows you and loves you as a father loves a son. 

I can also imagine the process that you went through to accomplish the goal that led you to the top of this peak.  It started with a vision of what you wanted to do, and you and your fellow scouts then set a clear goal to participate in On Target.  You trusted your leaders as you planned the route you would travel, what you would take with you and other important details.  You prepared physically and mentally for the challenge that was ahead.  As the actual hike took place you worked as a team with other scouts and leaders, helping one another to accomplish the goal.  Finally, step-by-step, you made the hike and reached your goal, the summit of the mountain.  Once on top of the mountain you reflected light to others participating in On Target today. 

I hope you will use this pattern throughout your life to accomplish many important goals.  As a Son of God I hope you have a clear vision of who you are and what you can accomplish.  Set clear goals that will help you grow and reach your full potential. Trust and listen to parents and leaders who love you and want what is best for you.  Prepare your body through regular exercise and good nutrition.  Keep it clean, free from harmful substances that can weaken and destroy it.  Prepare your mind through study and education, and strictly avoid pornography or other influences that can only weaken you.  Then, step by step and supported by family and friends, work towards those goals, knowing that you have a loving Heavenly Father who knows you and will help you in accomplishing them.  As you live as He wants you to, your life will be a light to guide and inspire others.  Well done, my friend!  May God bless you in all you do!

Sincerely,  

David L. Beck

Young Men General President

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints