Joseph Smith, Jr.

Joseph Smith (http://www.pbs.org/americanprophet)

My hero is someone who ran for the office of President of America, died as a martyr, translated the Book of Mormon, and was an excellent leg wrestler. My hero is the Prophet Joseph Smith, because he is a good example, he was good to the members of his faith, and he was a good leader. Although he died, he currently lives in the hearts of many people, and in heaven. Joseph Smith was born in Vermont on December of 1805, but then moved to an area near Palmyra, where he received The First Vision. Then in his later days, he moved to Nauvoo, Illinois.

First of all, Joseph Smith set a good example, not only for the church members, but also for everyone else who knew him. When he was young, he had to have surgery on his leg, and the doctor asked if he wanted whiskey to make him unconscious during the surgery. He refused because he knew alcohol would be bad for his body. Also, never in his whole life has he used foul language. He was also a good father and husband. On top of that, he began construction of the temples for the LDS Church. The first temple was built in Nauvoo, Illinois.

Secondly, when Joseph Smith was the prophet and seer for the church, he befriended everyone. He played with the children, he helped members who were farmers and storekeepers, and he was just plain nice to everyone. Joseph Smith also was a friend because he didn’t make people call him The Great Prophet Smith, or The True Revelator Smith, but just plain Brother Joseph.

Lastly, he was a good leader. Not only was he a good leader, he was an excellent leader. He led the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the church members loved him. Even with harsh trials, such as being tarred and feathered, beaten, and ridiculed, his church is now one of the largest and most well-known organizations in the world.

In conclusion, Joseph Smith is my hero because he was a good example, a good friend to the members of the church, and he was a good leader. Joseph Smith died as a martyr in the Carthage Jail in June 1844. He was killed by the disguised vigilante militia. He has been followed by a series of righteous men as prophets. His church, now known as the LDS Church, or the Mormon Church, is a large, growing organization.