“Contents,” New Era, Feb. 2014, inside front cover–1 New Era Contents In Every Issue 2 The Message Temple Blessings The primary purpose of the temple is to provide the ordinances necessary for our exaltation in the celestial kingdom. Elder Robert D. Hales 14 For the Strength of Youth Faithful, Loving Service Service is the gospel of Jesus Christ in action. Carol F. McConkie 35 Mormonad Don’t Risk It! 39 To the Point Controlling thoughts and actions in spite of strong attraction; why the temple endowment before a mission. 40 Come, Follow Me Knowing the Purpose of Life* 41 The Extra Smile 42 Questions & Answers “The temple is so far away that I don’t get to attend very often. How can the temple be a bigger part of my life today?” 44 What’s Up? Conference connection; dating 101; a great group date idea; a favorite scripture. 46 Instant Messages Stay inside the railings; not too small for prayer; deer encounter. 48 From Church Leaders How to Fill Your Book of Life Each day brings a clean, white page on which to change entries from “I wish I had” to “I’m glad I did.” Elder L. Tom Perry 49 Conference Poster Our Everyday Decisions Elder Kevin S. Hamilton Features 6 Why Making Choices Matters* Agency is about more than just avoiding bad things. 9 What I See* A friend helped a young man see beyond his narrow self-image. 10 Think before You Ink* Vandalizing your temple isn’t cool. 12 A Step in the Right Direction* This family home evening activity helps you see how good decisions lead you toward the Savior. 16 Sharing Home-Return Kits See how a young woman in the Philippines helped people forced out of their homes after a typhoon. 17 Scripture Lifeline A Valentine for the Bully She wanted an end to the bullying, but how could she do what the Spirit was prompting her to do? 18 Let Your Music Speak Sharing the gospel through music can be powerful—and fun. Just ask these teens. 22 Everyday Covenant Keeping Discover several ways you can keep your covenants every day. 24 28 Ways to Spread Sunshine Be a light to those around you every day of the month. 26 Fun Dates That Don’t Break the Bank Dates don’t have to be expensive to be fun, and these examples from youth prove it. 29 A Great Prom Date* A teacher’s lesson helped a young woman make some great date decisions for prom. 30 Not Dating? You’re Not Alone The reasons for not dating vary, as do the responses to them. 34 To Date or Not to Date? A young woman under 16 years old enlisted friends and For the Strength of Youth to answer dating questions. 36 Confessions of a Steady Dater They really liked each other, and they were sure nothing bad would happen. So how could it be wrong? Right?