As an editor, I’ve seen how words have the power to shape understanding, create connection, and foster a sense of belonging. Just as a well-edited piece of writing strengthens a message without alterin
g its essence, true belonging strengthens individuals without erasing their uniqueness.
BYU’s Office of Belonging teaches that “belonging is more than just being included. It is the embodiment of Christ-like love based on the belief that we are all children of God, with unique experiences, gifts, and talents. It means gathering as a covenant community, being committed to serving and sacrificing, and centering our lives on Jesus Christ. Through covenant belonging we are bound to God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ and to each other. A sense of belonging is important to our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, and to achieving our shared objective of establishing Zion.”
I work with words nearly every day as an editor and see how they can be used to either divide or unite. One of an editor’s greatest challenges is helping a writer improve their work while preserving the writer’s unique voice. We’re taught that it isn’t our place to smooth out the things that make the writer’s work unique. Editing, like belonging, is about helping others reach their full potential—not by changing who they are, but by making their voices clearer and stronger.
In a similar way, true belonging means strengthening and uplifting one another without diminishing our unique gifts and perspectives. In a covenant community, we don’t seek uniformity—we seek unity. This unity is built on a foundation of Christ-like love. Each of us as disciples has something valuable to offer, and when we honor each other’s voices—both in writing and in life—we create a space where all can feel valued and understood.
Editing constantly reminds me that a writer’s experience shapes their voice. Some approach topics through deep scriptural understanding, while others write from personal experience. My role is not to impose my voice but to help writers amplify their own, ensuring their message is both clear and compelling.
This process mirrors the work of creating a community of belonging. We each have unique perspectives and gifts, and it’s important that we celebrate these differences rather than minimize them. In fact, it is these differences that bring strength to our community. Just as a well-edited piece of writing is stronger when its unique ideas are clear and well-organized, a community is stronger when its diverse voices are celebrated and respected.
Building a community of belonging is more than strengthening an institution—it is the work of building Zion. This requires patience, understanding, and Christ-like love. It calls for a willingness to sacrifice for others and to actively uplift those around us. May we each strive to create a space where every voice is valued, every gift is recognized, and true belonging is found. May we each strive to build Zion by strengthening and uplifting those around us, ensuring that all feel valued and heard.