We already know Latter-day Saints are a peculiar people. Oftentimes, our standards and values clash with those of the world. We know we should strive to love and understand those who are different than us, but what about those within our own wards and neighborhoods? Do we have as much patience and love for those who hold similar beliefs to us?
Though our standards are similar and the gospel we learn is the same, it's important to note that no two members are the same. We all go through different trials, we are put in different families, and we live different experiences that mean our experience of the gospel and the Atonement might be different from someone else's.
President Thomas S. Monson shared on Facebook a snippet from his talk "Charity Never Faileth," one that helps us be less critical and more understanding and loving of one another:
In a hundred small ways, all of you wear the mantle of charity. Life is perfect for none of us. Rather than being judgmental and critical of each other, may we have the pure love of Christ for our fellow travelers in this journey through life. May we recognize that each one is doing her best to deal with the challenges which come her way, and may we strive to do our best to help out.
Charity has been defined as “the highest, noblest, strongest kind of love,” the “pure love of Christ … ; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with [her].”
“Charity never faileth.” May this long-enduring Relief Society motto, this timeless truth, guide you in everything you do. May it permeate your very souls and find expression in all your thoughts and actions.