Thomas S. Monson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, recently joined Barack Obama, Warren Buffett and Bill Gates on America's top 10 list of most admired men.

The results were based on a December USA Today/Gallup poll that also saw two other religious leaders, Rev. Billy Graham (4) and Pope Benedict XVI (8), on the annual list.

Known for his energy and ability to get things done, Monson has a quick intellect and an amazing memory. He is also an articulate and eloquent speaker. As he addresses the worldwide congregation during the Church's semi-annual General Conferences, his talks have often hearkened back to his experiences with the widows and others whom he has cared for and served during his life.

Responding to a reporter’s question about the Church’s openness in working with other churches and groups, Monson has said: “We should not be sequestered in a little cage. We should eliminate the weakness of the one standing alone and substitute it with the strength of working together to make this a better world.”

I completely agree with him.