“Contents,” New Era, Oct. 2012, inside front cover–1 New Era Contents 2 The Message Be Wise and Be a Friend Elder Robert D. Hales Is someone depending on your light to guide him or her? Be a good example. Make the world a better place because you were here. 5 At a Crossroads Leslie Rasmussen After graduating from high school, Leslie found new friends—but how would they affect her plans for the future? 6 Strengthened by the Word Youth around the world share how memorized scriptures have helped them in times of need. 9 Your Once upon a Time Is Now President Dieter F. Uchtdorf Your own wondrous story has already begun. 10 6 Tips for Scripture Study Afton Nelson Energize your scripture study with these ideas. 13 Mormonad Straight and Narrow Is the Way 14 Questions & Answers What does it mean to honor the priesthood of God? 16 Inviting All to Come unto Christ Kimberly Richter One young man’s Duty to God goal led two friends to investigate the Church. 19 How I Know Our Book of Mormon Project Aimee Wilson Aimee was asked to share her testimony of the Book of Mormon with all the youth in her stake. Now she just had to see if she had a testimony of her own. 20 For the Strength of Youth Dress and Appearance: “Let the Holy Spirit Guide” Mary N. Cook The principles of representation, respect, and reverence apply to the care and protection you give your body. 22 Dressing for a Dance Crystal Martin When she entered the room for the dance, Crystal quickly realized her dress was the only one with sleeves—and she knew that her appearance stood out. 23 The Extra Smile 24 Take My Yoke upon You What do the scriptures mean when they talk about Christ’s yoke being easy and light? 26 He Knows Who I Am Whitney Wilcox If you feel small in an infinite universe, remember that Heavenly Father knows you individually. 28 I Needed to Understand Rebecca Welling After her baby sister died, one young woman wanted to find hope for the future. The answer came through prayer. 31 Winning with Science Mindy Raye Friedman Science has taught this young scholar about the process of gaining spiritual knowledge. 32 Communication Breakdown David A. Edwards A quick look at Latter-day Saint lingo may help you as you talk with others about the gospel. 34 From the Mission Field Dear Future Missionaries Caleb N. Porter What do full-time missionaries wish they’d learned before serving? An elder in Mexico shares his advice from the field. 37 Looking Forward to Relief Society Find answers to several questions you may have about advancing from Young Women to Relief Society. 40 13 Simple Service Suggestions Service doesn’t have to be a big ordeal. Often the small, everyday acts of service can make a huge difference. 42 What’s Up? An unusual picture of the temple; “Scrabble Day” with an LDS twist; survey results about Church dances; a word search about Personal Progress and Duty to God; poems quoted by President Thomas S. Monson. 44 Instant Messages Dusty the cat; overcoming fear at night; the strength to resist; stranded on the road. 47 The Glad Hatter Christopher Fosse After sustaining a lacrosse injury, a young man began an unexpected hobby. Now it’s helping him save money for a mission. 48 From Church Leaders How to Defend Religious Freedom Elder Quentin L. Cook Religious freedom all over the world is under attack. It is important for your generation to become well educated on this issue. Be an active participant, not a silent observer. 49 Poem Clean Jenny Rawlings 49 Photo Lara Deppe