Women of Conviction: A Season of Strength

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In 1983, Barbara B. Smith gave a talk entitled, “A Season of Strength” that inspired me when I first heard her speak when I was a young mother. Now, as a grandmother, I still find her words inspiring today. Whether we are single or married, young or old, the nurturing work we do as women can provide true friendship to the lonely, bring joy and love to a child, and instill hope into the hearts of discouraged souls. We can also courageously help prepare the world for the return of our dear Savior, Jesus Christ. These are Barbara Smith’s words:

A Season of Strength

Whatever your circumstances, this can be your season of strength, because one of the most compelling concepts in the gospel is that the Savior will come again. And he counsels, “Behold, I come quickly.” (Revelations 3:11.) We must live with constant anticipation of his coming. Being ready to receive him is the position of our greatest strength. Let this be our bulwark against temptation or slothfulness. Let it cause us to read the Savior’s words, to search our hearts, and to try to live every principle of righteousness he taught. This will require us to love as he loves. Then, we are told, when he comes we shall know him, for we shall be like him. (See 1 John 3:2.) …

We are in a time when the swift changes of our social structure are thrusting enormous challenges upon us. We must remember that the work of women is important and still must be done. The spirit children of God must have the experience of mortality, and that means babies must be wanted, nurtured, loved, and cared for. The Lord has given women a primary responsibility in the establishment of good homes and well-cared-for families. No matter what the challenges are, we must find ways to accomplish this life-giving and eternal work. “Good family life is never an accident; it is always an achievement.” It was so for the women of the past, and it is so for us today. Our lives require discipline, coping without compromise, conversion of precepts into living principles that will make us saintly.

This is a season of strength for all women.

As we increase our spiritual strength, we will receive inspiration from God to know how we can also increase our strength physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially. As we work together as women, we can bless the lives of everyone around us.