

To live greatly, we must develop the capacity to face trouble with courage, disappointment with cheerfulness, and success with humility. — Thomas S. Monson
—What lingers after this line?
Facing Challenges with Bravery
This part highlights the importance of courage when confronting difficulties. To 'live greatly' requires resilience in the face of adversity, rather than succumbing to fear.
Responding to Disappointment
Monson emphasizes the need for maintaining a positive attitude even when facing setbacks. Cheerfulness in disappointment can help prevent despair and promote personal growth.
Handling Success Gracefully
The quote also advises that true greatness requires one to remain humble in times of success. Arrogance can erode achievements, while humility fosters sustained personal and professional development.
Balance in Life's Journey
Thomas S. Monson suggests that greatness in life comes from balance—facing hardships with courage, accepting failures gracefully, and achieving success without letting it inflate one’s ego.
Wisdom in Leadership
Monson, a religious leader and former president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often spoke on leadership and personal values. This quote encapsulates his view that leadership comes from demonstrating strength, optimism, and humility in life's trials and triumphs.
One-minute reflection
What does this quote ask you to notice today?
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