I am writing about a small photograph on page 22 of the June 2007 New Era. It shows a young man with two fingers up. I am not sure about other countries, but in Britain it is a sign of swearing. In the future can you please not have a picture of this type of thing? I would appreciate that very much. Thank you.

Marene E., Great Britain

Thanks for your publication and the good that you do with it. I am writing to you for the first time, and I am sorry that it is potentially critical. You probably realize that your illustrator of the very nice story in the October 2007 issue about the young brother from Armenia illustrated the story as if the author were from Africa. I enjoyed the story but felt the illustration was inaccurate.

John P., Iowa

Editor’s note: In a worldwide Church, the need to be sensitive to the variety of people, customs, and cultures is increasingly apparent. We appreciate your comments. We’ll keep trying.

I think that the New Era is a wonderful blessing. Every month I read each story the first week and can’t wait for the next magazine to come. In almost every issue there is an entry about a missionary experience. I used to be afraid of being asked about the Church, but after reading these entries, I’ve felt a lot more comfortable. My cousin asked me recently about the afterlife. She was afraid that after this life, there was nothing left. I was so happy telling her about what I knew. It wasn’t a perfect explanation, but I know that if I keep talking to her, she’ll get the desire to ask some missionaries about it. I’m so glad the Lord gave me that experience.

Kylee H., Utah

The graphic design for “Not Even Once” (Aug. 07) enticed me to read this wonderful article. Thank you for the fresh design.

Vivian D., South Africa

I am so grateful for the “In Tune” section in the August New Era. Music is very important to me. I love to sing and play instruments and to listen to the songs from Especially for Youth or the hymns. The words to the song “If the Savior Stood Beside Me” are very appropriate and really made me think. I am so glad that I can open up the New Era and sing and play a song that helps me feel closer to the Savior.

Hannah S., Georgia

I appreciated “Seek Learning” (Sept. 07) by President Gordon B. Hinckley. I’m grateful for the prophet’s counsel to girls that we are given equal opportunity to educate ourselves and get as much education as we can.

Mereadani R., Fiji

The New Era has given me a better understanding of the gospel and strengthens me every time I read it. I love the feeling the Spirit gives you as you read each article and I know that my testimony has grown because of the great, uplifting stories told in each issue.

Austin B., Montana