Edward L. Kimball

You may want to marry a man or woman just like the father or mother, the exemplary priesthood leader or outstanding woman you idealize.  But remember that even spiritual giants begin in embryo.  If you are not careful, the ideal - what you hope your spouse will be - can blind you to the numerous good qualities in potential partners.  Many eligible Latter-Day Saint singles who now might not measure up to your checklist will someday be fine fathers and mothers and respected Church and community leaders.  Sister Camilla Kimball wrote: "When people ask what it feels like to be married to a prophet, I tell them, "I didn't marry a prophet. I married a young returned missionary."

Edward L. Kimball, ed., The Writings of Camilla Eyring Kimball, Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1988, p. 114)