Zion

C.S. Lewis discusses how the Moral Law determines when and how to play the notes on the piano of our instincts. Meaning, evolution gives an explanation for our instinct to strive for our own survival (individuals who don't strive for survival die out). Evolution also gives an explanation for our herd instinct, our desire to help others within our species (species of creatures who don't help each other, or try to kill each other, die out).

How is it decided whether we heed the selfish instinct or the herd instinct? C.S. Lewis argues that it is the Moral Law that often tells us that the selfless choice is the better one. "The Moral Law tells us the tune we have to play: our instincts are merely the keys."

In more spiritual terms, we have a drive to create Zion. We have an innate desire to trust and be trusted and hence have intimate relationships.

The Book of Mormon says "if they should have charity they should not suffer the laborer in Zion to perish. But the laborer in Zion shall labor for Zion; for if they labor for money they shall perish" (2 Nephi 26:30-31).

I have seen this in my own situation in Provo, Utah. Those who live around me want to do well in school and someday make money, but they put being kind and serving in the Church first. I think that makes our little part of the world a beautiful place to live in.

God knows that for us to have lasting success we need one of our top priorities to be Zion, a society of people who want to help each other. I believe that striving for this will lead to more individual and community excellence.