The Virtuous Woman: A Life-Changing Encounter

The Virtuous Woman: A Life-Changing Encounter

At 25 years old, my life was heading in an uncertain direction. Like many young people, I was searching for my purpose, struggling with my own weaknesses, and not fully understanding what true happiness meant. It was during that time that I met a virtuous woman. She wasn’t perfect, but the way she lived taught me what truly matters. Because of her, my life took a different path—one more centered on eternal principles and values I hadn’t fully grasped before.

Virtue Beyond Appearances

When we hear the word "virtuous," we sometimes think of a perfect person, without flaws or weaknesses. However, virtue is much more than that. It is a disposition of the heart, a commitment to righteousness, a strength that transforms the soul and blesses those around it.

The Bible describes a virtuous woman with words full of admiration and respect:

"Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies." (Proverbs 31:10)

When I met this woman, I realized that virtue is something cultivated daily. It’s not a title received overnight, but the reflection of a life of effort and sacrifice.

The Power of Her Example

She did not preach with words but with actions. At a time when many focused on superficiality, she was concerned with serving, building, and doing good. I remember how she always found a way to help others without expecting recognition.

In the Book of Mormon, Alma counseled his son Helaman:

"Learn wisdom in thy youth; yea, learn in thy youth to keep the commandments of God." (Alma 37:35)

That is exactly what she did. She lived her life according to eternal principles, and by doing so, she taught me that true happiness is not found in what the world offers but in living according to God’s commandments.

The Impact on My Life

It didn’t take long for me to realize that her example was transforming me. Before, my decisions were driven by selfishness or the pursuit of momentary pleasure. But seeing her live with such conviction made me want to be better.

She reflected the teaching from Doctrine and Covenants:

"Verily, verily, I say unto thee, my son, that thou art chosen; wherefore, be diligent in keeping my commandments, and thou shalt be blessed forever." (Doctrine and Covenants 9:13)

That was what I lacked—diligence in doing what was right. Her example inspired me to strive harder, to seek righteousness with more determination, and to draw closer to God in a genuine way.

Characteristics of a Virtuous Woman

Over the years, I have identified some qualities that make a woman truly virtuous. These characteristics go beyond appearance and reflect the true beauty of the soul:

1. She Fears the Lord – Not in the sense of fear, but of deep respect and love for God. Proverbs 31:30 says:

"Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised."

2. She is Wise and Prudent – She does not act impulsively or react without thinking. Her wisdom builds up, not destroys. As Proverbs 14:1 states:

"Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands."

3. She Has a Kind Heart – She helps without expecting anything in return and genuinely cares for others. Her love is neither selfish nor superficial.

4. She is Strong and Hardworking – She does not fear effort or difficulties. She knows that hard work is a blessing, not a burden.

5. She is Faithful and Steadfast – She does not change based on circumstances. Her faith is firm, her love is constant, and her promises hold value.

Quotes that Reflect Her Nature

Throughout history, many have recognized the value of a virtuous woman. Some famous quotes express it powerfully:

Thomas S. Monson: "The path to exaltation is a path of virtue, faithfulness, and service."

Mahatma Gandhi: "Where there is love, there is life."

Dieter F. Uchtdorf: "True love requires action. We cannot simply say we love; we must demonstrate it every day."

The Legacy of a Virtuous Woman

Meeting this woman changed my life—not because she forced me to change, but because her example was so powerful that I could not ignore it. Her influence taught me that true greatness is not found in fame or wealth but in living according to eternal principles.

Today, years later, I still remember her impact on my life. Her influence helped me become a better husband, father, and disciple of Christ.

I would like to end with the Savior’s words, which describe the essence of a virtuous life:

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

That light was what I saw in her, and because of it, my life was never the same again.