Secrets of a Happy Life

by David O. McKay

The home and family life. Youth and preparation for adult life. Education. The individual and Society. Religious Ideals. Fundamental values. The abundant life. The secret of happiness.
LDS Mormon. President David Mckay.

Genres: Religion, Lds, Church, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Self Help, Education

First published January 1, 1967

About the author

David Oman McKay was the ninth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), serving from 1951 until his death.

Reviews

[Lorna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Published the year I graduated from high school, the teachings of this leader had a great influence on the person I am today.

[Deb · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was written before I was born. That's obvious based on a lot of the content. Thankfully we've come a long way culturally when it comes to the diversity, the talents, and the roles and responsibility parents play in the lives of their children.

The author presents a lot of ideals. Unfortunately, we don't live in an ideal world. He does mention that things were as bad then as they were in ancient history, and that was pretty bad. I'd say things are much worse now than they were in his day, but maybe I'm feeling pessimistic today.

It was interesting to read the book. I like the emphasis he puts on the importance of what we think and the impact it can have on our lives. I like his appreciation for the beauty of the world. I like what he says about hard work. I like what he says about how important it is that the people who lead us in government be of good character, with high morals. That is hard to find these days. I like what he says about integrity. I like what he says about Jesus Christ. I believe that how we live does impact our level of peace and happiness in life.

[Robyn Hall · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was the Prophet I grew up with. I didn’t know much about him as a child but i saw kindness in his eyes. I was sad when he died. This book though was kind of a struggle for me. He gets pretty political in one chapter which didn’t keep my attention. And i guess i’ve read so many self help titles there was really nothing new.
But a few good quotes

Self sympathy is, in most cases, a joy killer. It is fundamental that to make others happy brings happiness to self.

God's law is, use your personal power and possessions for the advancement and happiness of others.

It is a duty to seek to acquire the art of being cheerful, for it is a wonderful strength in time of distress.

Happiness is not an external condition: it is a state of the spirit and attitude of the mind.

trust in God. To have faith that God is our Father is the safest anchorage of the soul and brings peace and solace under any condition..

[Zack Moreno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simplified understanding of basic life principles and how to live abundantly. I found this helpful for my parenting and teaching side.

[John · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 for sure

Even dated, some of this is outstanding...

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Main theme being sacrifice and hard work will bring us happiness and joy. Children need to be raised by a mother and father, who care for them in all aspects. We need to be educated, and educate our children.

[Kiera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic! So much simple wisdom.

[Melanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

GREAT BOOK!!

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I only read the first few chapters and thumbed through the rest. It's all really interesting, a little dated. But I really did LOVE the first chapter on mothers and family.

[Kirt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eloquent. Quotable. Sound.

[Nephi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book with many keen insights on living a life of righteousness and service. This book is well worth reading. The key is devotion to God and service to your fellowmen.

[Christi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I thought this was a good read, lots of things to mark. Sort of interesting viewpoints sometimes, but I liked it. Good to reference now and again.

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book, even with a message for today's world.

[Nick · Rating 3 out of 5]

I would have given this five stars but the terrible editing and print job ruined it for me. In some cases it was clear that entire paragraphs were missing.

[Don Gubler · Rating 3 out of 5]

Happiness is one of those things that is much easier to write about than to actually do.

[Trent · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great tips on recognizing where true happiness comes from.