It is a mistake for women to think that life begins only with marriage. A woman can and must have an identity and feel useful, valued, and needed whether she is single or married. She must feel that she can do something for someone else that no one else ever born can do.

In this quote, James E. Faust argues that women should not define their lives solely by marriage, as if it is the only source of purpose or identity. He emphasizes that a woman’s worth and value should not be contingent on her marital status. Faust believes that women, whether single or married, must cultivate their own sense of identity, feeling useful, valued, and needed. He highlights the idea that every woman has unique contributions to make, suggesting that she should recognize her individual worth and the special things she can offer to the world.

The origin of this quote comes from Faust's background as a leader and spiritual figure within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His teachings often centered around the importance of personal growth, self-worth, and fulfilling one's potential, particularly for women. In this statement, Faust encourages women to embrace their own agency and see themselves as capable of making significant contributions to society, regardless of whether they are in a relationship or married.

Faust’s message challenges traditional societal expectations that often place women’s value in the context of marriage and family. By advocating for the importance of self-worth independent of a partner, Faust encourages women to focus on their personal development, talents, and the unique role they play in the lives of others. He stresses the importance of feeling needed and useful in a broader sense, reinforcing the idea that each woman has something special to contribute that no one else can replicate.

Ultimately, Faust's quote serves as a reminder that a woman’s identity and purpose should come from within and should not be defined by external factors such as marital status. He encourages women to recognize their inherent value and to feel empowered to contribute to the world in their own unique ways. This perspective not only promotes gender equality but also emphasizes the importance of individual fulfillment and self-respect in shaping one’s life, regardless of societal pressures or expectations.