It is a great tragedy of life that we don’t always fully study and value the things we have until they’re gone. Since our dear President Monson has passed away, you may have learned more about his life than you knew while he was still with us. But he lived a life that is worthy of continued study and emulation and so it is a wonderful commemoration to continue to learn about the ways he strived to follow Christ so that we can do likewise.

Below are five (or so) videos that will help in the quest of understanding this extraordinary man and the life of service that he lived, from which we have all benefitted greatly. Some of the videos are brief vignettes, others are documentaries, but all contribute something meaningful to our reflections on the life and legacy of President Thomas S. Monson.

1. On the Lord’s Errand: The Life of Thomas S. Monson

From Mormon Channel:

In the office of President Thomas S. Monson hangs a painting of the Savior, a portrayal of the Lord Jesus Christ by famed artist Heinrich Hofmann. President Monson has had the painting since he was a bishop in the 1950s. It represents an ideal example—the Master after whom Thomas Monson has modeled his life.

“I love that painting,” President Monson says as he gazes at it yet again. “I feel strength in having it near me. Look at the kindness in those eyes. Look at the warmth of expression. When facing difficult situations, I often look at it and ask myself, ‘What would He do?’ Then I have tried to respond accordingly.”

 

2. Reflections from his fellow Church Leaders and dear friends from the Salt Lake Tribune

 

3. Remembering the Life and Legacy of Thomas S. Monson from the Thomas S. Monson Facebook page. 

 

4. Thomas S. Monson’s first talk after being sustained to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

Thomas S. Monson was sustained to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on October 4, 1963 at age 36. His first address, “I Stand at the Door and Knock” was given during the semi-annual general conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

5. Until We Meet Again, we love you President Monson.