That friendship which intelligent beings would accept as sincere must arise from love, and that love grows out of virtue, which is as much a part of religion as light is a part of Jehovah.
History of the Church, 6:73.
Wise men ought to have understanding enough to conquer men with kindness. "A soft answer turneth away wrath," says the wise man; and it will be greatly to the credit of the Latter-day Saints to show the love of God, by now kindly treating those who may have, in an unconscious moment, done wrong; for truly said Jesus, Pray for thine enemies.
History of the Church, 6:219; paragraph divisions altered.
If we would secure and cultivate the love of others, we must love others, even our enemies as well as friends. . . . [People] ask, "Why is it this babbler gains so many followers, and retains them?" I answer, It is because I possess the principle of love. All I can offer the world is a good heart and a good hand.
History of the Church, 5:498; paragraph divisions altered.
