answers.

"Nephi taught clearly that the Holy Ghost 'is the gift of God unto all those who diligently seek him' and that 'he that diligently seeketh shall find' (1 Neph 10: 17, 19). The stunning reality, my dear young brothers and sisters, is that you control how close you are to the Lord. You determine just how clear and readily available promptings from the Holy Ghost will be. You determine this by your actions, by your attitude, by the choices you make, by the things you watch and wear and listen to and read, and by how consistently and sincerely you invite the Spirit into your life.
Contemplate for a moment the extent and the impact of this blessing! You have been given a gift that when exercised and respected will give you the answers to all of the confusing, thorny questions and problems you will face in your lives.
I can only imagine some of the questions you are facing right now. Should you marry the young man you are now dating, or not? Should you finish your degree, or not? Should you serve a mission, or not? What career should you pursue? Why pursue a career with vigor when all you've ever really wanted is to be a mother?
As life progresses how will you respond to challenges that will inevitably come? Will you know where to turn for peace and consolation if you are called upon to bury a child. . .or if a child threatens to stray from the gospel path? How will you know what to do when you face financial reserves? Where will you turn for insight and inspiration when you are called upon to lead in your ward or stake?. . .
To all of you there is only one way to safely and confidently meet the obstacles and opportunities that are part of life's path. First, listen to the prophet and the apostles. Study the principles we teach. Then take those principles to the Lord and ask Him how you should apply them in your life. Ask Him to influence your thoughts, temper your actions, and guide your steps. 'Counsel the Lord in all thy doings and he will direct thee for good (Alma 37:37). He will communicate with you through the power and presence of the Holy Ghost."
- Elder M. Russell Ballard

love, j.