“Contents,” New Era, Aug. 2001 New Era August 2001 Volume 31, Number 8 Contents The Message: A Gift from GodElder Russell M. NelsonThe Book of Mormon was written anciently for our day. It reveals the endless Lordship of Jesus Christ. Just Hanging OutBrad WilcoxGetting together with your friends is great, but don’t let things slip, like courtesy, safety, and common sense. You ChooseSister Sharon G. LarsenAgency is the power to think, choose, and act for ourselves. It is a blessing and a burden. Tuned InSherilyn FarnesMy friend sang out of tune with the music, but she was in tune with the Spirit. Q&A: Questions and AnswersI’m the president of my quorum, so I’m responsible to help plan weeknight activities. It seems that we end up doing the same old things most of the time. What are some things we can do? New Era Poster: Little by Little Take a StandShanna GhaznaviYouth in Minnesota learn that the best way to stand firm is to stand together. In Another Man’s ShoesMatthew BakerWho could forget their shoes before a big race? I did, until a kind stranger saved my day. Playing a Different TuneMatthew BakerThe Lord gave Stephen Beus a great talent, then asked him to give it up for two years. What Will I Say?John Allen WhateyThe blessing wasn’t from me; it was from the Lord. And He knew what needed to be said. Oasis of FaithDiane ShurtliffIn Bahrain, learning to camp wasn’t as important as learning to strengthen each other. Of All Things Fiction: Letter from BrettKay Lynn MangumHis little sister couldn’t remember him, but he loved her and sent her a special message. The Extra Smile How to Get an AnswerElder Merrill C. OaksHere’s a powerful key to getting the guidance you need from the Lord. Reader’s Guide We’ve Got Mail Poem: HeartstringsKirsten Christensen Photo of the MonthLana Leishman Cover: Minnesota youth are building firm foundations with some important tools. See “Take a Stand,” p. 20. Cover photography: Shanna Ghaznavi (front), © PhotoDisc (back).