BYU-Idaho grads urged to seek inspiration

REXBURG, Idaho — Inspiration to know what to do in every important phase of life, both personal and professional, is available to all, said Elder Richard G. Scott, of the Quorum of the Twelve, during BYU-Idaho's fall commencement services Saturday.

Family members, faculty and friends celebrated the 1,280 graduates — the most graduates in the history of the school.

"You have not only attained an outstanding secular education, but you have done it while meeting the highest standards of integrity and spirituality," said Elder Scott of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

"You are unique among graduating students in the world for having been schooled in this church university," he said. "Therefore, we expect of you future accomplishments far beyond those asked of a graduating class elsewhere. … Your preparation here has provided an exceptional foundation for you to accomplish worthwhile ambitions and realize much good."

Comparing the launching of a spacecraft to graduation, Elder Scott expressed the importance of this milestone in a person's life.

"This is the culmination of a tremendous combined effort of planning, training and hard work. It is likewise the beginning of a journey that will place its astronaut crew at their destination where they will fulfill their worthwhile assignments. When the mission is completed the spacecraft will facilitate their return with honor," he said.

Students use the same tools needed to launch a spacecraft to enter the course of life, Elder Scott said. And, just as a spacecraft has many supports and safety systems, students have the help of parents, loved ones, university professors and priesthood leaders. He listed all the tools used in preparation for launch.

"In recent weeks you have been experiencing a similar countdown to a very real launching into the orbit of life, where you have substantially increased control of your destiny," the church leader said. "With this commencement program, you are launched into the trajectory of life. You have increased freedom as well as increased responsibility for your decisions."

Even with the preparation and training gained through a college experience, it is still important to follow the direction of the spirit, in all of life's pursuits, Elder Scott said.

"Be certain that the freedom of choice you now have is used wisely, productively by continuing to live righteously to enjoy the guidance of the Holy Spirit to achieve your worthy goals in life."