The one man other than my father who made the most lasting impression was an uncle, Serge B. Benson. He taught me in three different classes - but above all, he taught me lessons in moral, physical, and intellectual courage that I have tried to apply in later life.

In this quote, Ezra Taft Benson reflects on the profound influence of his uncle, Serge B. Benson, who played a pivotal role in shaping his life. He emphasizes that while his father made a lasting impact, it was his uncle who furthered his education, not just academically, but also in the areas of moral, physical, and intellectual courage. The quote suggests that these lessons extended beyond classroom teachings and were integral to the way Benson approached life, making him a lasting influence in his development as a person.

The mention of moral courage refers to the ability to stand by one’s ethical beliefs even in the face of adversity or opposition. Physical courage likely points to the bravery required in challenging or dangerous situations, while intellectual courage involves the willingness to explore new ideas, challenge conventional thinking, and pursue knowledge without fear of failure or judgment. These lessons, according to Benson, became guiding principles in his own life, shaping how he dealt with challenges and approached decision-making.

The origin of this quote comes from Benson’s reflection on the significant role mentors and family members played in his life. Serge B. Benson served not just as an educator, but as a mentor who imparted life lessons that went beyond academic instruction. His influence helped foster a sense of inner strength in Benson, reinforcing the importance of courage in all aspects of life, a theme that Benson carried with him into his later work as a religious leader and public figure.

Ultimately, this quote highlights the importance of mentorship and how a positive role model can shape a person’s values and approach to life. Through his uncle’s lessons, Benson learned to navigate life with a deep sense of integrity, bravery, and intellectual curiosity—qualities he strived to apply throughout his own life and legacy.