Brother Marven was donating his sound system for the Youth conference. Elder Hall walked down the steps into the large conference room filled with rows of chairs.
What is that song you are playing?
It is the theme song for the youth for this year.
What is is called?
“Embark” (https://www.lds.org/youth/theme/2015?lang=eng)
It is so loud.
It is one of the songs from the the 2015 Strength of Youth album, which was written entirely by youth. So my very strong system plays it loud.
A youth leader heard the conversation.
Here, Elder Hall. I will give you a copy of the words of the song.
We read the words. The title was, “Embark.” The dictionary says that embark means “to begin a course of action, especially one that is important or demanding.” As we watched the youth come into the room, we thought how everything that youth at this time are asked to do is important and demanding.
We are starting on a journey
We’re following the light
It’s giving us direction
Leading us through life
We could see the light reflected in their eyes and in their smiles. The Philippines has been described as “the land of beautiful smiles.”
So we will stand up all together
Raise our eyes to the sky
With faith and love in our hearts
We will embark
We often see the Philippine people, especially the youth, walking down the street with a hand on the shoulder of their friend, or around their shoulders, or holding their arm.
Not too long after we came here, I was waiting in the church for Elder Hall to finish a meeting. I stepped into an empty classroom and sat on a chair. Soon a sister came into the room.
Sister, I saw you here alone. So I came in to talk to you so you would not be lonely.
The Philippine people stand together. If someone is working, others will come by to talk or provide companionship. If someone is sitting, others will come and sit also.
We will give what we have been given
Live our lives with faith
Lift up those around us
And help them on their way
We will live a life of meaning
And cherish every step
So when we meet our maker
There is nothing to regret
The youth leaders explained:
The 2015 Youth Theme is a continuation of the 2014 theme, “Come Unto Christ.” First youth need to come unto Christ and the they need to embark in His service. When we decide to embark in the service of God, great things begin to happen in our life and the lives of people around us. We learn of Him. We come unto Him.”
The song was worth singing loudly and enthusiastically.
Yeah, we will stand up all together
Raise our eyes up to the sky
With faith and love in our hearts
We will embark!
Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day. (D&C 4:2)
Your comments about the Filipinos is so very true. I saw it all the time. We received some wonderful news today. A family that we knew and loved and served with in San Roque are in Cebu, as I write, to be sealed together… a long awaited day. I am bursting with joy!
Great news, Elaine! We are so happy for that special family, and for you.