Young Women General President Elaine S. Dalton discusses challenges and triumphs

Our Take: LDSLiving recently sat down with Sister Elaine S. Dalton, Young Women general president, and asked her about running, motherhood and the best decision she ever made. We appreciate opportunities to learn more about our church leaders.

Q: In 2008 the Young Women General Presidency called for a return to virtue and added the value into the Young Women theme. What inspired you to add this value? How do you think this addition will and how have you seen it so far impact the lives of LDS young women everywhere?

A: When the value of Virtue was added to the Young Women theme and to Personal Progress, it was, I believe, inspired for our day. I think it was not a part of the theme from the beginning because there needed to be this spotlight put on the importance of chastity and virtue. I have seen its impact in families around the world. Its impact is being seen in young womens worthiness and attendance at the temple. Its impact in testimony of the Savior is tangible as the young women complete their reading of the Book of Mormon, which is part of the requirement for the Virtue Value Experience. Its impact is in the faith and confidence of young women. They radiate a certain kind of confidence and happiness that is not obtained in ways the world offers. It is obtained by remaining virtuous. I think this value will impact not just the lives of LDS young women but the world! I truly believe that one virtuous young woman, led by the spirit, can change the world. And I see it happening now.

Q: You love running; what first got you hooked on it?

A: I didnt always love to run. When I first started it was hard. I would run ten steps and walk ten steps. But I persisted. I guess you might say, what I love about running is the daily-ness of it. It is making me mind myself! And it is in the daily habits that we gain strength and power. I really never dreamed I would run a marathon, let alone seventeen of them. But looking back, it was the daily habit that made the difference. Anything we persist in doing becomes easier. Now I cant imagine my life without a morning run. It makes me happy.

Read the complete interview on LDSLiving.