Dare to Stand Alone

Navy boot camp was not easy for me
Nor for anyone who endured it
Oft I thought my life was in jeopardy
The drills demanding but true grit

As the first Sunday rolled around
We were called forth by our Petty Officer
We stood at attention on the drill ground
And our dismissal for church was made official

In the brisk California breeze
The call to religious duty was given
First the Catholics and Jews were released
Then the Protestants, till I was alone even

Here I dared to stand seeking for God's help
When the Petty Officer said to me
"What do you call yourselves?"
And.... "Mormons" was heard in synchronicity

Yes. You are never truly alone
When the call for courage is made
You have the Lord, by whom you are known
And others behind you carefully laid

Dare to Stand Alone
President Thomas S. Monson
Ensign, May 2012