Eternal principles that govern happiness apply equally to all.

In the elevated words of Russell M. Nelson, the spiritual leader and philosopher of enduring wisdom, we are reminded of a timeless truth: “Eternal principles that govern happiness apply equally to all.” These words reach beyond creed, culture, or circumstance, asserting that the foundations of joy are not fleeting or arbitrary, but universal, eternal, and impartial. Happiness, according to Nelson, is not a privilege reserved for the few, nor a gift granted by fortune; it is a fruit borne of principles — virtues that honor the soul, awaken the heart, and lift the spirit. These principles remain steadfast, applying with equal measure to all men and women, in all ages and places.

The origin of this insight lies in Nelson’s lifelong study of human behavior, morality, and the teachings of faith. As a physician, he witnessed suffering and triumph, loss and healing, and observed patterns that transcended circumstance. As a spiritual guide, he reflected upon the eternal truths revealed through scripture, revelation, and human experience. He recognized that the path to happiness is not paved with wealth, power, or transient pleasure, but with adherence to timeless principles: integrity, compassion, gratitude, humility, and service. These virtues, when cultivated, yield happiness that endures — happiness that is not subject to the whims of fortune or the inequities of life.

The meaning of Nelson’s words is profound: to live well, one must look beyond the surface of desire and circumstance to the principles that govern the human heart. The wise man does not chase fleeting joy, nor anchor his hope in passing circumstances. Instead, he seeks the eternal verities that guide behavior and nurture the spirit. Love, honesty, patience, diligence, and forgiveness — these are not mere moral suggestions; they are the eternal keys to happiness. By practicing them, one secures a joy that is consistent, resilient, and universally accessible.

History bears witness to this truth. Consider Abraham Lincoln, a man beset by loss, conflict, and national division. He faced trials that would have shattered the spirit of a lesser man: the deaths of loved ones, the pressures of civil war, the weight of public expectation. Yet he adhered to principles of honesty, justice, and empathy. Though he suffered, he found moments of profound happiness — joy rooted not in circumstance, but in alignment with eternal principles. Lincoln’s life reminds us that the sources of true happiness are not contingent upon fortune, but upon the choices one makes in accordance with enduring truths.

Even in everyday life, Nelson’s insight holds: the same principles govern the happiness of the parent caring for a child, the teacher nurturing knowledge, the friend offering compassion, or the neighbor giving assistance. The laws of human flourishing are impartial; they apply as firmly in the quiet corners of home as they do in the grand chambers of power. Happiness grows not from possession or status, but from righteous action, love, and service, available to every soul willing to follow the eternal guideposts.

This teaching also serves as a caution: to ignore these principles is to court disappointment, frustration, and spiritual unrest. Those who pursue pleasure, wealth, or influence without regard to moral truth often find their joy fleeting and hollow. Nelson’s words call us to see beyond the ephemeral and to root our lives in the immutable, understanding that what leads to happiness is not accidental, but follows a predictable pattern discovered and affirmed by the ages.

The lesson is thus both profound and practical: seek happiness through adherence to eternal principles. Cultivate kindness, honesty, humility, and service. Guard against envy, selfishness, and deceit. Make decisions that honor your conscience, uplift others, and align with universal truth. In doing so, you unlock a happiness that does not waver in adversity, that does not diminish with fortune, and that applies equally to every human being who chooses to walk this path.

So, my child, carry this wisdom as a lantern for your journey: the principles that bring joy are not hidden or secret; they are eternal, impartial, and waiting to guide you. Follow them, and you shall find a happiness that no trial can extinguish, a peace that no circumstance can destroy. Let the eternal principles govern your life, and know that the source of true happiness has been present for all, for all time, and is within your reach if you embrace it with courage, wisdom, and love.