Pres. Monson urges women to find joy in the journey

PROVO, Utah — President Thomas S. Monson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints greeted an audience of 17,016 women for the annual Women's Conference in the Brigham Young University Marriott Center on Friday afternoon."I simply say to you, what a lovely sight you are," President Monson said.He was the culminating speaker of two days of classes for the annual Women's Conference, which is sponsored by BYU and the LDS Relief Society.President Monson congratulated the women for their giving, sensitive spirits. "You genuinely care about others," he said.Addressing women who are in myriad life experiences, including students, mothers, single moms, and grandmothers, President Monson encouraged the women to not let life pass them by."Instead, find joy in the journey now," he said.President Monson told a story of a woman who had purchased a nice article of clothing but had been saving it for a special occasion. Nine years later she passed away — and had never worn the item. President Monson advised his listeners to not procrastinate celebrating life's wonderful moments."Every day in your life is a special occasion,” he said. Tell a relative you love them. Write a letter to an old friend and make peace with old quarrels, he said.President Monson said he understands life's challenges. "Each one of us experiences dark days," he said. But without opposition, no one would learn and grow, he said, adding that it builds patience, faith, fortitude and humility.With women doing so much of worth for others, President Monson told the audience to acknowledge their service, especially during those times when they may be feeling inadequate. "Pause occasionally and reflect on all that you do and have done,"he said.