This was another item I shared on Facebook. I feel that it is so important to be the one teaching my children. The Lord gave them to our family and we need to make sure we are teaching them correct principles.
Another 1998 Conference talk. This was Sister Ann G. Wirthlin speaking about the importance of teaching our children the gospel. It is something that we try to do in our home, but we know we could give it more effort some days. Sister Wirthlin gives some excellent advice for us:
"As we witness the unfolding events of the last days, we cannot doubt that in this scripture the Lord is speaking directly to us. We are Israel of the latter days. We are they who must teach our children of Him. Peace that endures is not dependent upon outside forces that are beyond our control. “Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit, and you shall have peace in me” (D&C 19:23)."
***
"The Savior has given us a pattern to follow as we study the scriptures. We hear the word, we ponder upon its meaning, we ask our Heavenly Father to help us understand, and then our minds and hearts are prepared to receive the promised blessings. Pondering is more than reading words; it is searching for meanings that will help us as we relate to one another and as we make choices in our lives. It is allowing the word to move from our minds to our hearts. The Spirit bears witness to our hearts as we prayerfully seek to know the things of our Heavenly Father. When we have that witness and knowledge, we think and live and relate to each other in more Christlike ways."
***
"President Hinckley has counseled parents: “Read to your children. Read the story of the Son of God. Read to them from the New Testament. Read to them from the Book of Mormon. It will take time, and you are very busy, but it will prove to be a great blessing in your lives as well as in their lives. And there will grow in their hearts a great love for the Savior of the world, the only perfect man who walked the earth. He will become to them a very real living being, and His great atoning sacrifice as they grow to manhood and womanhood, will take on a new and more glorious meaning in their lives” (quoted in Church News, 6 Dec. 1997, 2). Brothers and sisters, that glorious promise from our prophet can be ours if we read to our children from the scriptures."
"There can be no greater joy than to know that our children love the Lord, no greater peace than that which comes when we feel of His love and understand the meaning of His atoning sacrifice. That spirit which comes when we share sacred things of the heart will bond us together as families. John expressed it well: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth” (3 Jn. 1:4)."
Friday, February 27, 2015
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Leaving a Great Mark on Our Posterity
I have kind of fallen off the "posting on my blog train". So I will get back on! I have posted a lot of things on Facebook as usual, but it seems that this site is more geared to focusing on Gospel topics for me.
I read a talk this morning by Elder David B. Haight that left a positive impression on me and help me refine my desires for what I want to leave my posterity. I'll post what I share on Facebook and hope that it is useful to some one who needs these words:
I read a talk this morning by Elder David B. Haight that left a positive impression on me and help me refine my desires for what I want to leave my posterity. I'll post what I share on Facebook and hope that it is useful to some one who needs these words:
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| This is probably past 1998, but you get the gist! |
I have been reading in the archives of older LDS General Conferences and kind of settled on April 1998. It was a pretty big year in my life with my missionary service beginning and this conference was given the month I went to the MTC.
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| Elwood Corry, my grandfather, left a great legacy to learn from. My father continues to do the same. I have great examples in my life. |
There were a few sections of Elder Haight's comments that made a positive impression on me and I wanted to share.
He had been talking about a boy (at the time) named Kevin Campbell, and how Kevin had written him a letter asking him how life was. So of course, Elder Haight responded:
"I would say to Kevin Campbell, bless his heart, life is wonderful. And the only way I can describe it is that I have been blessed all of my life, and I have been blessed with challenges and opportunities and questions and problems that are part of life. But life is wonderful if we live the simple principles that we have been taught and if we live the way that we know we should live. One of those wonderful blessings we have in our old age is the blessing of having more time with our children and their children and their children, to have that opportunity to assemble and to be with them."
He had been talking about a boy (at the time) named Kevin Campbell, and how Kevin had written him a letter asking him how life was. So of course, Elder Haight responded:
"I would say to Kevin Campbell, bless his heart, life is wonderful. And the only way I can describe it is that I have been blessed all of my life, and I have been blessed with challenges and opportunities and questions and problems that are part of life. But life is wonderful if we live the simple principles that we have been taught and if we live the way that we know we should live. One of those wonderful blessings we have in our old age is the blessing of having more time with our children and their children and their children, to have that opportunity to assemble and to be with them."
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| This guy is an amazing grandfather to our children. |
Near the end of the talk Elder Haight also expressed his hopes for his posterity, which I share:
"So I would hope that our own children, as the generations go on, would know of their heritage, to know who they are and to know that they had fathers who believed and to know that they had fathers who were challenged, that they had fathers who had investigated and who had been out in the world declaring the truth—not in just quoting scriptures—but feeling it in their hearts and souls that what we do is true."
"So I would hope that our own children, as the generations go on, would know of their heritage, to know who they are and to know that they had fathers who believed and to know that they had fathers who were challenged, that they had fathers who had investigated and who had been out in the world declaring the truth—not in just quoting scriptures—but feeling it in their hearts and souls that what we do is true."
Elder Haight ends with this challenge for us:
"Brothers and sisters, live the commandments. Do what is right. Take advantage of this great opportunity in your life to live it well, to be good, to have good works, and to influence other people for good. The gospel is true. I hope that every day of my life I might be able to do some good and to encourage somebody to live a better life and to understand what has been restored to the earth. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen."
"Brothers and sisters, live the commandments. Do what is right. Take advantage of this great opportunity in your life to live it well, to be good, to have good works, and to influence other people for good. The gospel is true. I hope that every day of my life I might be able to do some good and to encourage somebody to live a better life and to understand what has been restored to the earth. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen."
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| More precious than gold. |
Monday, January 19, 2015
Strength in the Gospel - Elder Nelson's Article/Talk from the January 2015 Ensign
These are several paragraphs from Elder Nelson's youth talk I read yesterday. I think they hold a great warning and guidelines for all of us. This excerpt is really long, but really important. (Really though, the whole talk is worth reading, it will give strength to those struggling and insight to those who can help.) I I hope they are of use to anyone who is struggling. There is strength in the Gospel:
With whom will you choose to associate?
You will mingle with many good people who also believe in God. Whether they be Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, or Muslim, believers know that there actually is absolute truth. Believers in God have a conscience. Believers obey civil and divine law voluntarily, even laws that might otherwise be unenforceable.
You will mingle with many good people who also believe in God. Whether they be Jewish, Catholic, Protestant, or Muslim, believers know that there actually is absolute truth. Believers in God have a conscience. Believers obey civil and divine law voluntarily, even laws that might otherwise be unenforceable.
With your commitment to obey civil and divine law, you stop for a red light, even if no other traffic is in sight. As a child of God you know, even if the police don’t catch you, that stealing and murdering are wrong and that God will ultimately hold you accountable. You know that the consequences for not playing by the rules are not only temporal but also eternal.
As you move along life’s journey, you will also become acquainted with people who do not believe in God. Many of them have not yet found divine truth and don’t know where to look for it. But you youth of the noble birthright are coming to their rescue. In great numbers, you are rallying to the call of God’s prophet for more missionaries. We are deeply grateful for each one!
As you mingle with nonbelievers, be aware that there may be a few who do not have your best interest at heart (see D&C 1:16; 89:4). As soon as you discern that, flee from them quickly and permanently (see 1 Timothy 6:5–6, 11).
Sadly, you will meet people whose desperate search for something that seems to them like happiness takes them down the slippery slopes of sin. Beware of that slimy slide! Any pleasure in sin is only fleeting, while haunting memories of sin are filled with gnawing and grinding guilt. The sinful warping of the embrace divinely designed to unite husband and wife is but a hollow counterfeit. Each unlawful experience is stripped of deep meaning and sweet memory.
Will you choose freedom or bondage?
Godless forces are all around. You are literally living in enemy territory. A plague of poisonous pornography abounds. It ensnares all who yield to its insidious grasp.
Godless forces are all around. You are literally living in enemy territory. A plague of poisonous pornography abounds. It ensnares all who yield to its insidious grasp.
This was foreseen by the Lord, who said, “And now I show unto you a mystery, a thing which is had in secret chambers, to bring to pass even your destruction in process of time, and ye knew it not” (D&C 38:13; see also verse 28).
Consider how many people in secret chambers are seeking to destroy your life and happiness! Carnal temptation is not new. The Apostle Peter warned of this same snare when he wrote:
“They allure through the lusts of the flesh … those that were clean. …
“While they promise them liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage” (2 Peter 2:18–19).
Avoid that bondage, my beloved brothers and sisters. If you are currently viewing pornography, stop it now! Seek help from your bishop. None are smart enough to outwit the adversary on their own once they have been poisoned by pornography. It is as destructive as leprosy, as addictive as meth, and as corrosive as lye.
Will you choose to follow the Lord or the philosophies of men?
Carefully study “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.” The family is under attack across the entire world, but the truths of the family proclamation will fortify you.
Carefully study “The Family: A Proclamation to the World.” The family is under attack across the entire world, but the truths of the family proclamation will fortify you.
You need to understand the far-reaching consequences of society’s current skirmish over the definition of marriage. The present debate involves the question of whether two people of the same gender can be married. If you have a question about the position of the Church on this or any other important issue, prayerfully ponder it and then heed the prophetic messages of living prophets. Their inspired words, with inspiration from the Holy Ghost, will bring to your mind a fuller and truer understanding.
The marriage debate is but one of the many controversies that will challenge you in the future. Against the strident voices of the adversary, you, as youth of the noble birthright, will choose to stand for the Lord and His truth.
The Apostle Paul prophesied about the plight of our day (see 2 Timothy 3:1–5). His accurate vision of the spiritual devastation of our day was followed by his reassuring conclusion, telling us how to stay safe: “From a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2 Timothy 3:15).
To his advice I add my own: Keep studying the scriptures. Keep doing the things that build your faith in Jesus Christ. And then notice the wise choices you are naturally drawn to make.
Your faith in Jesus Christ and His gospel will give you the courage to marry and to bring children into your family while you are young and able to have them. When you are my age, you will prize your children, your grandchildren, and their children above any fame or fortune that otherwise might have come.
How will you prepare for your personal interview with the Savior?
You youth of the noble birthright are not perfect yet. None of us are. So you, along with the rest of us, are very grateful for the Atonement of the Savior, which provides full forgiveness as you truly repent. You also know that your stay here in mortality is relatively brief. In time, each of you will graduate from this frail existence and move on to the next world.
You youth of the noble birthright are not perfect yet. None of us are. So you, along with the rest of us, are very grateful for the Atonement of the Savior, which provides full forgiveness as you truly repent. You also know that your stay here in mortality is relatively brief. In time, each of you will graduate from this frail existence and move on to the next world.
Judgment Day awaits each of us. I know that “the keeper of the gate is the Holy One of Israel; and he employeth no servant there” (2 Nephi 9:41). Yes, each of us will have a personal interview with Jesus Christ.
Each day on earth gives you time and opportunity to prepare for that interview. Please know this: As you choose to live on the Lord’s side, you are never alone. God has given you access to His help while you move along mortality’s perilous pathway. As you diligently, earnestly pour out your heart to Him in daily prayer, He will send His angels to help you (see D&C 84:88). He has given you the Holy Ghost to be by your side as you live worthily. He has given you the scriptures so that you can fully feast upon the words of Jesus Christ (see 2 Nephi 9:51; 32:3). He has given you words to heed from living prophets.
In whom will you put your trust?
You know that God is your Father. He loves you. He wants you to be happy. Put your trust in Him (see 2 Nephi 4:34; 28:31). Maintain your focus on His holy temple. Be worthy to receive your endowment and sealing ordinances. Remain faithful to those covenants, and return frequently to the temple. Remember, your loftiest goal is to gain the greatest of all the blessings of God, that of eternal life (see D&C 14:7). Temple ordinances are essential for that blessing (see D&C 131:1–3).
You know that God is your Father. He loves you. He wants you to be happy. Put your trust in Him (see 2 Nephi 4:34; 28:31). Maintain your focus on His holy temple. Be worthy to receive your endowment and sealing ordinances. Remain faithful to those covenants, and return frequently to the temple. Remember, your loftiest goal is to gain the greatest of all the blessings of God, that of eternal life (see D&C 14:7). Temple ordinances are essential for that blessing (see D&C 131:1–3).
I invite you to prayerfully study the scriptural statement of your identity, purpose, and blessing (see D&C 86:8–11). Yes, you truly are youth of the noble birthright, created in God’s image. You are the lawful heirs, to be tried and tested. May you choose to be a light to the world to help save God’s children, to have joy, and ultimately to earn the blessing of eternal life.
Thursday, January 8, 2015
A Couple Facebook Posts that are Worth Re-sharing
I have posted a few things on Facebook lately that I haven't shared here yet. I like to share things to both places because I believe that the messages are important. First off is today's share from Elder Kacher:
I felt like Elder Kacher's story and teaching is a powerful example of resisting the temptation to flee the safety of the gospel when confronted with doubts. He also discusses how our decisions will affect the lives of our children and family members. The same principles have worked for me and have strengthened my beliefs and testimony:
"I was baptized with my friends in 1972. This new current I chose to follow, the gospel of Jesus Christ, provided direction and meaning to my life. However, it was not without its challenges. Everything was new to me. At times I felt lost and confused. Questions and challenges were posed by both friends and family."
"I had a choice to make. Some of their questions created doubt and uncertainty. The choice was an important one. Where would I turn for answers? There were many who wanted to convince me of the error of my ways—“riptides” determined to pull me away from the peaceful current that had become a wonderful source of happiness. I learned very clearly the principle that there is “opposition in all things” and the importance of acting for myself and not forsaking my agency to others."
"I asked myself, “Why would I turn away from that which had brought me such great comfort?” As the Lord reminded Oliver Cowdery, “Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter?” My experience had been similar. Therefore, I turned, with yet more commitment, to a loving Heavenly Father, to the scriptures, and to trusted friends."
"Still, there were many questions I could not answer. How would I address the uncertainty they created? Rather than allow them to destroy the peace and happiness that had come into my life, I chose to set them aside for a season, trusting that in the Lord’s time, He would reveal all things. I found solace in His statement to the Prophet Joseph: “Behold, ye are little children and ye cannot bear all things now; ye must grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth.” I chose not to forsake what I knew to be true by following an unknown and a questionable current—a potential “riptide.” As President N. Eldon Tanner taught, I learned “how much wiser and better it is for man to accept the simple truths of the gospel … and to accept by faith those things which he … cannot understand.”"
"Does this mean there is no room for honest inquiry? Ask the young boy who sought refuge in a sacred grove wanting to know which of all the churches he should join. Hold the Doctrine and Covenants in your hand, and know that much of what has been revealed in this inspired record has been the result of a humble search for truth. As Joseph found out, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, [who] giveth to all men liberally, … and it shall be given him.” By asking sincere questions and by seeking divine answers, we learn “line upon line, precept upon precept,”8 as we increase in knowledge and wisdom."
"The question is not, “Is there room for honest, sincere inquiry?” but rather, “Where do I turn for truth when questions do arise?” “Will I be wise enough to hold fast to what I know to be true in spite of a few questions I might have?” I testify there is a divine source—One who knows all things, the end from the beginning. All things are present before Him. The scriptures testify that He does “not walk in crooked paths, … neither doth he vary from that which he hath said.”"
"On this mortal journey we must never think that our choices affect only us. Recently, a young man visited my home. He had a good spirit about him, but I sensed he was not fully participating in Church activity. He told me that he had been raised in a gospel-centered home until his father was unfaithful to his mother, resulting in their divorce and influencing all his siblings to question the Church and to fall away. My heart was heavy as I spoke with this young father who now, affected by his father’s choices, was raising these precious spirits outside the blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ."
"Another man I know, a onetime faithful Church member, had questions regarding certain doctrine. Rather than ask Heavenly Father for answers, he chose to rely solely on secular sources for guidance. His heart turned in the wrong direction as he sought what seemed to be the honors of men. His pride may have been gratified, at least temporarily, but he was cut off from the powers of heaven. Rather than find truth, he lost his testimony and brought with him many family members."
"I had a choice to make. Some of their questions created doubt and uncertainty. The choice was an important one. Where would I turn for answers? There were many who wanted to convince me of the error of my ways—“riptides” determined to pull me away from the peaceful current that had become a wonderful source of happiness. I learned very clearly the principle that there is “opposition in all things” and the importance of acting for myself and not forsaking my agency to others."
"I asked myself, “Why would I turn away from that which had brought me such great comfort?” As the Lord reminded Oliver Cowdery, “Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning the matter?” My experience had been similar. Therefore, I turned, with yet more commitment, to a loving Heavenly Father, to the scriptures, and to trusted friends."
"Still, there were many questions I could not answer. How would I address the uncertainty they created? Rather than allow them to destroy the peace and happiness that had come into my life, I chose to set them aside for a season, trusting that in the Lord’s time, He would reveal all things. I found solace in His statement to the Prophet Joseph: “Behold, ye are little children and ye cannot bear all things now; ye must grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth.” I chose not to forsake what I knew to be true by following an unknown and a questionable current—a potential “riptide.” As President N. Eldon Tanner taught, I learned “how much wiser and better it is for man to accept the simple truths of the gospel … and to accept by faith those things which he … cannot understand.”"
"Does this mean there is no room for honest inquiry? Ask the young boy who sought refuge in a sacred grove wanting to know which of all the churches he should join. Hold the Doctrine and Covenants in your hand, and know that much of what has been revealed in this inspired record has been the result of a humble search for truth. As Joseph found out, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, [who] giveth to all men liberally, … and it shall be given him.” By asking sincere questions and by seeking divine answers, we learn “line upon line, precept upon precept,”8 as we increase in knowledge and wisdom."
"The question is not, “Is there room for honest, sincere inquiry?” but rather, “Where do I turn for truth when questions do arise?” “Will I be wise enough to hold fast to what I know to be true in spite of a few questions I might have?” I testify there is a divine source—One who knows all things, the end from the beginning. All things are present before Him. The scriptures testify that He does “not walk in crooked paths, … neither doth he vary from that which he hath said.”"
"On this mortal journey we must never think that our choices affect only us. Recently, a young man visited my home. He had a good spirit about him, but I sensed he was not fully participating in Church activity. He told me that he had been raised in a gospel-centered home until his father was unfaithful to his mother, resulting in their divorce and influencing all his siblings to question the Church and to fall away. My heart was heavy as I spoke with this young father who now, affected by his father’s choices, was raising these precious spirits outside the blessings of the gospel of Jesus Christ."
"Another man I know, a onetime faithful Church member, had questions regarding certain doctrine. Rather than ask Heavenly Father for answers, he chose to rely solely on secular sources for guidance. His heart turned in the wrong direction as he sought what seemed to be the honors of men. His pride may have been gratified, at least temporarily, but he was cut off from the powers of heaven. Rather than find truth, he lost his testimony and brought with him many family members."
The next post was Elder Scott:
I love this promise from Elder Scott! I know that taking just a few minutes a day to fill ourselves with the Word of God makes a difference in our daily routine. It gives us perspective of what we're doing here. For those on the edge of daily, committed scripture study, consider this as a part of your New Year's goals:
"I add my voice with this promise: as you dedicate time every day, personally and with your family, to the study of God’s word, peace will prevail in your life. That peace won’t come from the outside world. It will come from within your home, from within your family, from within your own heart. It will be a gift of the Spirit. It will radiate out from you to influence others in the world around you. You will be doing something very significant to add to the cumulative peace in the world."
"I do not declare that your life will cease to have challenges. Remember when Adam and Eve were in the garden, they were free from challenges, yet they were unable to experience happiness, joy, and peace. Challenges are an important part of mortality. Through daily, consistent scripture study, you will find peace in the turmoil around you and strength to resist temptations. You will develop strong faith in the grace of God and know that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ all will be made right according to God’s timing."
"I add my voice with this promise: as you dedicate time every day, personally and with your family, to the study of God’s word, peace will prevail in your life. That peace won’t come from the outside world. It will come from within your home, from within your family, from within your own heart. It will be a gift of the Spirit. It will radiate out from you to influence others in the world around you. You will be doing something very significant to add to the cumulative peace in the world."
"I do not declare that your life will cease to have challenges. Remember when Adam and Eve were in the garden, they were free from challenges, yet they were unable to experience happiness, joy, and peace. Challenges are an important part of mortality. Through daily, consistent scripture study, you will find peace in the turmoil around you and strength to resist temptations. You will develop strong faith in the grace of God and know that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ all will be made right according to God’s timing."
I will see if I can link the videos below! Please enjoy!
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
I Had a Dream Last Night...
I had a dream last night. I have had it before...well. I have been to the place before. According to my dream it is where I currently live and the former owner, Dale Payne, left a lot more house for me than I use, or even remember.
It's just a dream. The house doesn't even look the same as the one we bought. On the top floor there is a door that goes out the back of this house-I suppose it is to a garage. (Sometimes it is just another completely different home on the same property, they are still connected.)But. There are also steps that go downstairs. Three floors. Each floor has a lot of usable space and things in it. The first has a family room and bedrooms. The second down has a family room and a large bedroom, it is in decent shape, but it is older. The last floor-the lowest- has a lot of clutter. There is a small family room and there is also a storage room with a couple refrigerators. There are also things that the previous owner has left. Every time I dream of the place I mean to get in the refrigerators and clean them out. I never get that far.
Last night the dream and the place were a bit different. There was more than just the large home. There were two gymnasiums. I got a tour of a really nice one from a nice gentleman. I do not know who he is, but he was familiar to me and kind (Almost like Mr. Rogers...okay...) On the way into the gymnasium we were in a very nice place, mountainous and green. It seemed about evening time. There was a lot of room to enjoy, but it was empty at that time. There was a walkway across the one I toured.
The last part of the dream before it got weird and changed into a coin gathering game...was back in the home. In the basement there was a room I hadn't been in before, it was basically an old shop. Everything was still in it. It hadn't been opened for a long time, but things were still marked for sale. Vintage type things lined the shelves. We wanted to open it up again and get it going.
The whole experience was really vivid. I have had several vivid dreams the last several days. I don't know why, but they have been very interesting. I personally feel that dreams are a way of dealing with things, or facing things that we can't face in reality. Is there reality tied to them? I think there can be. Not all dreams are created equal. Many are just...entertaining or something else.
This dream last night seemed to mean something to me. I have been to this house before in other dreams. It is usually the same, perhaps I notice more each time. This time Jenna had put our kids and others to sleep on the second floor, they were all tucked in cozy and looked peaceful. It was nice. There seemed to be more than the three we have, so maybe we had visitors.
So what does it all mean? I don't know exactly, but I think that it had something to do with my life. I am in a good place right now, but there are things that I either want to do, or wish I could do, or even know I could do, but I don't. I felt like it was a dream showing me that there are so many opportunities in life that we don't take advantage of. I live in my house, I do my work, I raise my family and I am happy doing that, but perhaps I could do more things that would enrich my experience here on Earth and add to my enjoyment. I worry a lot about over doing, I do that often, but I think if I could get out of some of my ruts of habit and try some new things I would be happier.
Don't get me wrong. I am happy. I am blessed and I know it. The Lord is good to me and my family. I am grateful for that. But. Perhaps He would be happier with me if he saw me doing more outside of the four walls I enclose myself in. I have a book that needs finishing, places I want to go, and people I want to see.
Will I do it? I hope I do more. But for me it will be gradual. Line upon line.
We are here on Earth to experience life. Not to be walled in by our fears and perceived truths. There is so much goodness and life to enjoy. We need to find the real truth of our existence. I believe that I have been led to much truth in my life and I hope to be able to find more. I believe there are certain ways of living that bring happiness and I feel I do a great job at many of them, but I could do more. I could be more. We all could. We are happy when we are doing new and exciting things. What will mine be? What will yours be?
It's just a dream. The house doesn't even look the same as the one we bought. On the top floor there is a door that goes out the back of this house-I suppose it is to a garage. (Sometimes it is just another completely different home on the same property, they are still connected.)But. There are also steps that go downstairs. Three floors. Each floor has a lot of usable space and things in it. The first has a family room and bedrooms. The second down has a family room and a large bedroom, it is in decent shape, but it is older. The last floor-the lowest- has a lot of clutter. There is a small family room and there is also a storage room with a couple refrigerators. There are also things that the previous owner has left. Every time I dream of the place I mean to get in the refrigerators and clean them out. I never get that far.
Last night the dream and the place were a bit different. There was more than just the large home. There were two gymnasiums. I got a tour of a really nice one from a nice gentleman. I do not know who he is, but he was familiar to me and kind (Almost like Mr. Rogers...okay...) On the way into the gymnasium we were in a very nice place, mountainous and green. It seemed about evening time. There was a lot of room to enjoy, but it was empty at that time. There was a walkway across the one I toured.
The last part of the dream before it got weird and changed into a coin gathering game...was back in the home. In the basement there was a room I hadn't been in before, it was basically an old shop. Everything was still in it. It hadn't been opened for a long time, but things were still marked for sale. Vintage type things lined the shelves. We wanted to open it up again and get it going.
The whole experience was really vivid. I have had several vivid dreams the last several days. I don't know why, but they have been very interesting. I personally feel that dreams are a way of dealing with things, or facing things that we can't face in reality. Is there reality tied to them? I think there can be. Not all dreams are created equal. Many are just...entertaining or something else.
This dream last night seemed to mean something to me. I have been to this house before in other dreams. It is usually the same, perhaps I notice more each time. This time Jenna had put our kids and others to sleep on the second floor, they were all tucked in cozy and looked peaceful. It was nice. There seemed to be more than the three we have, so maybe we had visitors.
So what does it all mean? I don't know exactly, but I think that it had something to do with my life. I am in a good place right now, but there are things that I either want to do, or wish I could do, or even know I could do, but I don't. I felt like it was a dream showing me that there are so many opportunities in life that we don't take advantage of. I live in my house, I do my work, I raise my family and I am happy doing that, but perhaps I could do more things that would enrich my experience here on Earth and add to my enjoyment. I worry a lot about over doing, I do that often, but I think if I could get out of some of my ruts of habit and try some new things I would be happier.
Don't get me wrong. I am happy. I am blessed and I know it. The Lord is good to me and my family. I am grateful for that. But. Perhaps He would be happier with me if he saw me doing more outside of the four walls I enclose myself in. I have a book that needs finishing, places I want to go, and people I want to see.
Will I do it? I hope I do more. But for me it will be gradual. Line upon line.
We are here on Earth to experience life. Not to be walled in by our fears and perceived truths. There is so much goodness and life to enjoy. We need to find the real truth of our existence. I believe that I have been led to much truth in my life and I hope to be able to find more. I believe there are certain ways of living that bring happiness and I feel I do a great job at many of them, but I could do more. I could be more. We all could. We are happy when we are doing new and exciting things. What will mine be? What will yours be?
Monday, December 15, 2014
The Brotherhood of Man
I love this quote, I feel like it catches the Spirit surrounding the Christmas season perfectly:"I think if all men knew and understood who they are, and were aware of the divine source from whence they came, and of the infinite potential that is part of their inheritance, they would have feelings of kindness and kinship for each other that would change their whole way of living and bring peace on earth. "
"We believe in the dignity and divine origin of man. Our faith is founded on the fact that God is our Father, and that we are his children, and that all men are brothers and sisters in the same eternal family. (Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Joseph Fielding Smith, Chapter 20: Love and Concern for All Our Father’s Children)"
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
Elder Hales Talk: Eternal Life—to Know Our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ
This is another LONG excerpt from a conference talk. I am sure I could cut down what I include, but there is so much value in what is being said here that I felt it was important (well...to me!) to post the whole thing. Christmas is a great time to think on Jesus and Joseph Smith, and I love how Elder Hales relates it to our lives and how we can build our own homes based on our knowledge of God and His Son.
"Jesus is a God, yet He continually distinguishes Himself as a separate, individual being by praying to His Father and by saying that He is doing His Father’s will. During His ministry among the Nephites, He pled, “Father, I pray not for the world, but for those whom thou hast given me out of the world, … that I may be in them as thou, Father, art in me, that we may be one, that I may be glorified in them.”"
"With this in mind, we are not surprised that the Restoration of the gospel began with the appearance of not one but two glorified beings. Of his First Vision, the Prophet Joseph Smith testified: “One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!”"
"The young prophet, who went into the grove to find out which church he should join, went with faith unwavering and came out with the knowledge and a witness of the only true God and Jesus Christ, whom God had sent. Joseph, like the prophets before him, was then to be an instrument for restoring to the world the knowledge that leads to eternal life."
"You too can seek our Heavenly Father and “this Jesus of whom the prophets and apostles have [testified]” in the scriptures and in this general conference. As you seek a personal witness—your personal revelation—you will discover that Heavenly Father has provided a special way for you to know the truth for yourself: through the third member of the Godhead, a personage of spirit we know as the Holy Ghost."
"“And when ye shall receive these things”—including what I have shared today—“I would exhort you that ye would ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true; and if ye shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto you, by the power of the Holy Ghost."
"“And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know [with a surety] the truth of all things.”"
"Brothers and sisters, I testify that our Heavenly Father wants us to seek this knowledge now. The words of the prophet Helaman cry from the dust: “Remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation … , a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.” Indeed, we will not fail."
"That sure foundation is Jesus Christ. He is “the Rock of Heaven.” When we build our house upon Him, the rains of the latter days may descend, the floods may come, and the winds may blow, but we will not fall. We will not fail, for our home and our family will be founded upon Christ."
"I testify that such a home is “a house of glory.” There we gather together to pray to our Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Christ, His Beloved Son. There we glorify and give gratitude to Them. There we receive the Holy Ghost and “the promise which [He gives] unto [us] of eternal life, even the glory of the celestial kingdom."
I am grateful for the knowledge I have that has helped shape my life on these principles. Life is hard enough with this knowledge, I am grateful I have something to guide me. I know that these principles can help anyone willing.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
Sustaining and Following the Prophet.
Two of my last three Facebook posts have centered around following the prophet. I found it interesting that these two talks were one after the other. I am grateful for our leadership in the church. I try to follow the counsel they give because it has always brought me peace. I may be too intense in my feelings at times, as far as knowing my desires and seeing the imperfections I have, but I still try. I am grateful for men who are willing to say and teach what is right rather than what is convenient.
Anyway. Here are the two posts:
I loved Elder Nelson's talk discussing Church leadership, so much that I couldn't choose just one section of it!
"My dear brothers and sisters, if the Restoration did anything, it shattered the age-old myth that God had stopped talking to His children. Nothing could be further from the truth. A prophet has stood at the head of God’s Church in all dispensations, from Adam to the present day. Prophets testify of Jesus Christ—of His divinity and of His earthly mission and ministry. We honor the Prophet Joseph Smith as the prophet of this last dispensation. And we honor each man who has succeeded him as President of the Church."
"When we sustain prophets and other leaders, we invoke the law of common consent, for the Lord said, “It shall not be given to any one to go forth to preach my gospel, or to build up my church, except he be ordained by some one who has authority, and it is known to the church that he has authority and has been regularly ordained by the heads of the church.”"
"This gives us, as members of the Lord’s Church, confidence and faith as we strive to keep the scriptural injunction to heed the Lord’s voice as it comes through the voice of His servants the prophets. All leaders in the Lord’s Church are called by proper authority. No prophet or any other leader in this Church, for that matter, has ever called himself or herself. No prophet has ever been elected. The Lord made that clear when He said, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you.” You and I do not “vote” on Church leaders at any level. We do, though, have the privilege of sustaining them."
***
"Twenty-six years before he became President of the Church, then-Elder George Albert Smith said: “The obligation that we make when we raise our hands … is a most sacred one. It does not mean that we will go quietly on our way and be willing that the prophet of the Lord shall direct this work, but it means … that we will stand behind him; we will pray for him; we will defend his good name, and we will strive to carry out his instructions as the Lord shall direct.”"
***
"Last year, when President Monson reached the milestone of 5 years of service as President of the Church, he reflected on his 50 years of apostolic service and made this statement: “Age eventually takes its toll on all of us. However, we join our voices with King Benjamin, who said, … ‘I am like as yourselves, subject to all manner of infirmities in body and mind; yet I have been chosen … and consecrated by my father, … and have been kept and preserved by his matchless power, to serve you with all the might, mind and strength which the Lord hath granted unto me’ (Mosiah 2:11).”"
"President Monson continued: “Despite any health challenges that may come to us, despite any weakness in body or mind, we serve to the best of our ability. I assure you that the Church is in good hands. The system set up for the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve [Apostles] assures [us] that it will always be in good hands and that, come what may, there is no need to worry or to fear. Our Savior, Jesus Christ, whom we follow, whom we worship, and whom we serve, is ever at the helm.”"
"My dear brothers and sisters, if the Restoration did anything, it shattered the age-old myth that God had stopped talking to His children. Nothing could be further from the truth. A prophet has stood at the head of God’s Church in all dispensations, from Adam to the present day. Prophets testify of Jesus Christ—of His divinity and of His earthly mission and ministry. We honor the Prophet Joseph Smith as the prophet of this last dispensation. And we honor each man who has succeeded him as President of the Church."
"When we sustain prophets and other leaders, we invoke the law of common consent, for the Lord said, “It shall not be given to any one to go forth to preach my gospel, or to build up my church, except he be ordained by some one who has authority, and it is known to the church that he has authority and has been regularly ordained by the heads of the church.”"
"This gives us, as members of the Lord’s Church, confidence and faith as we strive to keep the scriptural injunction to heed the Lord’s voice as it comes through the voice of His servants the prophets. All leaders in the Lord’s Church are called by proper authority. No prophet or any other leader in this Church, for that matter, has ever called himself or herself. No prophet has ever been elected. The Lord made that clear when He said, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you.” You and I do not “vote” on Church leaders at any level. We do, though, have the privilege of sustaining them."
***
"Twenty-six years before he became President of the Church, then-Elder George Albert Smith said: “The obligation that we make when we raise our hands … is a most sacred one. It does not mean that we will go quietly on our way and be willing that the prophet of the Lord shall direct this work, but it means … that we will stand behind him; we will pray for him; we will defend his good name, and we will strive to carry out his instructions as the Lord shall direct.”"
***
"Last year, when President Monson reached the milestone of 5 years of service as President of the Church, he reflected on his 50 years of apostolic service and made this statement: “Age eventually takes its toll on all of us. However, we join our voices with King Benjamin, who said, … ‘I am like as yourselves, subject to all manner of infirmities in body and mind; yet I have been chosen … and consecrated by my father, … and have been kept and preserved by his matchless power, to serve you with all the might, mind and strength which the Lord hath granted unto me’ (Mosiah 2:11).”"
"President Monson continued: “Despite any health challenges that may come to us, despite any weakness in body or mind, we serve to the best of our ability. I assure you that the Church is in good hands. The system set up for the Council of the First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve [Apostles] assures [us] that it will always be in good hands and that, come what may, there is no need to worry or to fear. Our Savior, Jesus Christ, whom we follow, whom we worship, and whom we serve, is ever at the helm.”"
-----
I appreciated the words by Sister McConkie this conference about sustaining our prophet. It is something that I have tried to do in my life. I am bothered when I am accused of being "mindless" for doing so. I have seen in my life the blessings that have come to me and my family for being willing to listen to what is more than just "great advice", it has been "vital advice" to directing myself and my family through tough times, temptation, and even through prosperity. I am not claiming perfection from myself or even the prophet, but I am claiming that he is in a place that, if we listen to his counsel we will keep ourselves in a "safe" path spiritually...and we are spiritual beings. To quote a couple sections of her Sister McConkie's talk:
"In a world threatened by a famine of righteousness and spiritual starvation, we have been commanded to sustain the prophet. As we give heed to, uphold, and affirm prophetic word, we witness that we have the faith to humbly submit to the will, the wisdom, and the timing of the Lord."
"We heed prophetic word even when it may seem unreasonable, inconvenient, and uncomfortable. According to the world’s standards, following the prophet may be unpopular, politically incorrect, or socially unacceptable. But following the prophet is always right. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”"
"The Lord honors and favors those who will heed prophetic direction. For the widow of Zarephath, obedience to Elijah saved her life and ultimately the life of her son. As the prophet had promised, “she, and he, and her house, did eat many days … according to the word of the Lord, which he spake by Elijah.”"
"The Lord “will feed those who trust Him.” The words of the prophets are like manna to our souls. When we partake, we are blessed, protected, and preserved both temporally and spiritually. When we feast upon their words, we learn how to come unto Christ and live."
***
"When we heed the words of the prophets, we build our homes and our lives upon an eternally sure foundation, “the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, … that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to … misery and endless wo.”"
"We have a choice. We may choose to ignore, trifle with, trample upon, or rebel against the words of Christ spoken by His ordained servants. But the Savior taught that those who do so will be cut off from His covenant people."
"As we prayerfully read and study sacred prophetic word with faith in Christ, with real intent, the Holy Ghost will speak truth to our minds and hearts. May we open our ears to hear, our hearts to understand, and our minds that the mysteries of God may be unfolded to our view."
"We heed prophetic word even when it may seem unreasonable, inconvenient, and uncomfortable. According to the world’s standards, following the prophet may be unpopular, politically incorrect, or socially unacceptable. But following the prophet is always right. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”"
"The Lord honors and favors those who will heed prophetic direction. For the widow of Zarephath, obedience to Elijah saved her life and ultimately the life of her son. As the prophet had promised, “she, and he, and her house, did eat many days … according to the word of the Lord, which he spake by Elijah.”"
"The Lord “will feed those who trust Him.” The words of the prophets are like manna to our souls. When we partake, we are blessed, protected, and preserved both temporally and spiritually. When we feast upon their words, we learn how to come unto Christ and live."
***
"When we heed the words of the prophets, we build our homes and our lives upon an eternally sure foundation, “the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, … that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to … misery and endless wo.”"
"We have a choice. We may choose to ignore, trifle with, trample upon, or rebel against the words of Christ spoken by His ordained servants. But the Savior taught that those who do so will be cut off from His covenant people."
"As we prayerfully read and study sacred prophetic word with faith in Christ, with real intent, the Holy Ghost will speak truth to our minds and hearts. May we open our ears to hear, our hearts to understand, and our minds that the mysteries of God may be unfolded to our view."
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
Remembering Our Path on Earth
I loved this talk by President Monson in the Priesthood Session. His advice is a great reminder to me that each of us has a chosen work to do here on earth and we need to stay on track:
"Many of you will remember President N. Eldon Tanner, who served as a counselor to four Presidents of the Church. He provided an undeviating example of righteousness throughout his career in industry, during service in the government in Canada, and as an Apostle of Jesus Christ. He gave us this inspired counsel: “Nothing will bring greater joy and success than to live according to the teachings of the gospel. Be an example; be an influence for good.”"
"He continued: “Every one of us has been foreordained for some work as [God’s] chosen servant on whom he has seen fit to confer the priesthood and power to act in his name. Always remember that people are looking to you for leadership and you are influencing the lives of individuals either for good or for bad, which influence will be felt for generations to come.”"
"We are strengthened by the truth that the greatest force in the world today is the power of God as it works through man. To sail safely the seas of mortality, we need the guidance of that Eternal Mariner—even the great Jehovah. We reach out, we reach up to obtain heavenly help."
***
"The clock of history, like the sands of the hourglass, marks the passage of time. A new cast occupies the stage of life. The problems of our day loom ominously before us. Throughout the history of the world, Satan has worked tirelessly for the destruction of the followers of the Savior. If we succumb to his enticings, we—like the mighty Bismarck—will lose that rudder which can guide us to safety. Instead, surrounded by the sophistication of modern living, we look heavenward for that unfailing sense of direction, that we might chart and follow a wise and proper course. Our Heavenly Father will not leave our sincere petition unanswered. As we seek heavenly help, our rudder, unlike that of the Bismarck, will not fail."
"As we venture forth on our individual voyages, may we sail safely the seas of life. May we have the courage of a Daniel, that we might remain true and faithful despite the sin and temptation which surround us. May our testimonies be as deep and as strong as that of Jacob, the brother of Nephi, who, when confronted by one who sought in every way possible to destroy his faith, declared, “I could not be shaken.”"
It was funny because this morning I was about to put off my scripture study...save it for this evening like I do some days, just because I wanted to "surf" the internet. Reading this talk was a great reminder of the need to put first things first. It is not always so much a matter of what I do (sometimes it is...), it is more a matter of the order in which I choose to address my priorities.
President Monson refers to the Bismarck, the mighty German naval ship, and it's loss to the British Army simply because it lost its rudder to keep it on track. Here is the excerpt from his talk:
"Many of you will remember President N. Eldon Tanner, who served as a counselor to four Presidents of the Church. He provided an undeviating example of righteousness throughout his career in industry, during service in the government in Canada, and as an Apostle of Jesus Christ. He gave us this inspired counsel: “Nothing will bring greater joy and success than to live according to the teachings of the gospel. Be an example; be an influence for good.”"
"He continued: “Every one of us has been foreordained for some work as [God’s] chosen servant on whom he has seen fit to confer the priesthood and power to act in his name. Always remember that people are looking to you for leadership and you are influencing the lives of individuals either for good or for bad, which influence will be felt for generations to come.”"
"We are strengthened by the truth that the greatest force in the world today is the power of God as it works through man. To sail safely the seas of mortality, we need the guidance of that Eternal Mariner—even the great Jehovah. We reach out, we reach up to obtain heavenly help."
***
"The clock of history, like the sands of the hourglass, marks the passage of time. A new cast occupies the stage of life. The problems of our day loom ominously before us. Throughout the history of the world, Satan has worked tirelessly for the destruction of the followers of the Savior. If we succumb to his enticings, we—like the mighty Bismarck—will lose that rudder which can guide us to safety. Instead, surrounded by the sophistication of modern living, we look heavenward for that unfailing sense of direction, that we might chart and follow a wise and proper course. Our Heavenly Father will not leave our sincere petition unanswered. As we seek heavenly help, our rudder, unlike that of the Bismarck, will not fail."
"As we venture forth on our individual voyages, may we sail safely the seas of life. May we have the courage of a Daniel, that we might remain true and faithful despite the sin and temptation which surround us. May our testimonies be as deep and as strong as that of Jacob, the brother of Nephi, who, when confronted by one who sought in every way possible to destroy his faith, declared, “I could not be shaken.”"
It was funny because this morning I was about to put off my scripture study...save it for this evening like I do some days, just because I wanted to "surf" the internet. Reading this talk was a great reminder of the need to put first things first. It is not always so much a matter of what I do (sometimes it is...), it is more a matter of the order in which I choose to address my priorities.
President Monson refers to the Bismarck, the mighty German naval ship, and it's loss to the British Army simply because it lost its rudder to keep it on track. Here is the excerpt from his talk:
"Seventy-five years ago, on February 14, 1939, in Hamburg, Germany, a public holiday was celebrated. Amid fervent speeches, cheering throngs, and the playing of patriotic anthems, the new battleship Bismarck was put to sea via the River Elbe. This, the most powerful vessel afloat, was a breathtaking spectacle of armor and machinery. Construction required more than 57,000 blueprints for the 380-millimeter, radar-controlled, double-gun turrets. The vessel featured 28,000 miles (45,000 km) of electrical circuits. It weighed over 35,000 tons, and armor plate provided maximum safety. Majestic in appearance, gigantic in size, awesome in firepower, the mighty colossus was considered unsinkable."
"The Bismarck’s appointment with destiny came more than two years later, when on May 24, 1941, the two most powerful warships in the British Navy, the Prince of Wales and the Hood, engaged in battle the Bismarckand the German cruiser Prinz Eugen. Within five minutes the Bismarck had sent to the depths of the Atlantic the Hood and all but three men of a crew of over 1,400. The other British battleship, the Prince of Wales, had suffered heavy damage and turned away."
"Over the next three days the Bismarck was engaged again and again by British warships and aircraft. In all, the British concentrated the strength of five battleships, two aircraft carriers, 11 cruisers, and 21 destroyers in an effort to find and to sink the mighty Bismarck."
"During these battles, shell after shell inflicted only superficial damage on the Bismarck. Was it unsinkable after all? Then a torpedo scored a lucky hit, which jammed the Bismarck’s rudder. Repair efforts proved fruitless. With guns primed and the crews at ready, the Bismarck could only steer a slow circle. Just beyond reach was the powerful German air force. The Bismarck could not reach the safety of home port. Neither could provide the needed haven, for the Bismarck had lost the ability to steer a charted course. No rudder, no help, no port. The end drew near. British guns blazed as the German crew scuttled and sank the once seemingly indestructible vessel. The hungry waves of the Atlantic first lapped at the sides and then swallowed the pride of the German navy. The Bismarck was no more."
"Like the Bismarck, each of us is a miracle of engineering. Our creation, however, was not limited by human genius. Man can devise the most complex machines but cannot give them life or bestow upon them the powers of reason and judgment. These are divine gifts, bestowed only by God."
"Like the vital rudder of a ship, brethren, we have been provided a way to determine the direction we travel. The lighthouse of the Lord beckons to all as we sail the seas of life. Our purpose is to steer an undeviating course toward our desired goal—even the celestial kingdom of God. A man without a purpose is like a ship without a rudder, never likely to reach home port. To us comes the signal: chart your course, set your sail, position your rudder, and proceed."
"As with the mighty Bismarck, so it is with man. The thrust of the turbines and the power of the propellers are useless without that sense of direction, that harnessing of the energy, that directing of the power provided by the rudder, hidden from view, relatively small in size but absolutely essential in function."
"Our Father provided the sun, the moon, and the stars—heavenly galaxies to guide mariners who sail the lanes of the sea. To us, as we walk the pathway of life, He provides a clear map and points the way toward our desired destination. He cautions: beware the detours, the pitfalls, the traps. We cannot be deceived by those who would lead us astray, those clever pied pipers of sin beckoning here or there. Instead, we pause to pray; we listen to that still, small voice which speaks to the depths of our souls the Master’s gentle invitation, “Come, follow me.”"
There's not much else to add to what President Monson declares. We need to keep on track. It is so easy to lose sight of our real goals. I am grateful for gentle reminders. We have work to do, lives to bless, and people to assist on our journey. I am all about enjoying life and the good things in it, but I fear I may place to much priority on things that don't matter very much at times. My goal this season is to enjoy life, but not at the expense of my duties.
For those who would like to read/watch the talk here is the link: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/10/guided-safely-home?lang=eng#d
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Teaching and Guiding Children with Their Ultimate Potential in Mind
Parenting is full of challenges. One day can be utter joy, the next just a practice in survival. For that matter, one hour can be bliss, while the next is full of chaos. It changes so rapidly. It is painful at times, but I would never give it up. My children are everything.
Finding a balance between giving them what they want and restraining them enough to guide them in a good and healthy direction for life seems to require a good balance and understanding of natural laws and consequences. This story from Elder Callister this last conference was very powerful for me:
"Ben Carson said of himself, “I was the worst student in my whole fifth-grade class.” One day Ben took a math test with 30 problems. The student behind him corrected it and handed it back. The teacher, Mrs. Williamson, started calling each student’s name for the score. Finally, she got to Ben. Out of embarrassment, he mumbled the answer. Mrs. Williamson, thinking he had said “9,” replied that for Ben to score 9 out of 30 was a wonderful improvement. The student behind Ben then yelled out, “Not nine! … He got none … right.” Ben said he wanted to drop through the floor."
"At the same time, Ben’s mother, Sonya, faced obstacles of her own. She was one of 24 children, had only a third-grade education, and could not read. She was married at age 13, was divorced, had two sons, and was raising them in the ghettos of Detroit. Nonetheless, she was fiercely self-reliant and had a firm belief that God would help her and her sons if they did their part."
 |
| Ben Carson |
"One day a turning point came in her life and that of her sons. It dawned on her that successful people for whom she cleaned homes had libraries—they read. After work she went home and turned off the television that Ben and his brother were watching. She said in essence: You boys are watching too much television. From now on you can watch three programs a week. In your free time you will go to the library—read two books a week and give me a report."
"The boys were shocked. Ben said he had never read a book in his entire life except when required to do so at school. They protested, they complained, they argued, but it was to no avail. Then Ben reflected, “She laid down the law. I didn’t like the rule, but her determination to see us improve changed the course of my life.”"
"And what a change it made. By the seventh grade he was at the top of his class. He went on to attend Yale University on a scholarship, then Johns Hopkins medical school, where at age 33 he became its chief of pediatric neurosurgery and a world-renowned surgeon. How was that possible? Largely because of a mother who, without many of the advantages of life, magnified her calling as a parent."
"The scriptures speak of the role of parents—that it is their duty to teach their children “the doctrine of repentance, faith in Christ the Son of the living God, and of baptism and the gift of the Holy Ghost” (D&C 68:25)."
"As parents, we are to be the prime gospel teachers and examples for our children—not the bishop, the Sunday School, the Young Women or Young Men, but the parents. As their prime gospel teachers, we can teach them the power and reality of the Atonement—of their identity and divine destiny—and in so doing give them a rock foundation upon which to build. When all is said and done, the home is the ideal forum for teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ."
This responsibility to teach children positively, and to restrain them when needed, reminds me of horses and their training. Now, I am the farthest thing from a horse expert there is, but I do know about the bridle. I also know that the bridle can give a horse and its rider direction. By giving the rider that little bit of control, a horse can take, that be of service, and be a blessing to a rider.
In a way, this same principle applies to parenting (and teaching!). We all have a vision of where we want our children to end up. We realize that we want our children to have the power to make good choices for themselves. Choices that will lead to a productive and fulfilling life. But we don't want to take their agency away. There is a balance that needs to be found.
If we give them unbridled freedom to live and decide for themselves, they will be about as useful as a horse that has never been broken and trained. In other words, they will be really good at eating our food and taking care of their own needs.
If we, through foresight and vision, give them restraints, training, and a vision of their limitless potential then they will have an idea of how to moderate the balance between wants and the things necessary for character driven growth.
Many of us parents are pretty good at disciplining our children. But the question we need to ask ourselves is: Why are we disciplining them?
If the reason is not well thought out and explained to children, then they will doubt that we have their best interests at heart. We could be perceived as bullies or be labeled as adults who are "clueless" about life.
However, I have found at home, and at school, that if I discipline with love, and an explanation of the "WHY" my children, and my students seem to take the correction more positively.
Is it always a great experience? Of course not! Sometimes we feel guilty. Sometimes we mess up our discipline strategies. I have found myself apologizing to my children and my students when I have disciplined too harshly, or I was wrong in my assessment of the situation, however, I would rather err on the side of reminding students and children of their accountability to be great and good people, than to let them believe that their actions do not effect those around them.
The problem I face at times is the question of "why do I think I know it all and am qualified to direct all these children?"
As far as I can tell, I am not qualified, BUT I believe it is worse to say nothing when we see behavior or habits that will derail a future. I will risk being a hypocrite to try and give positive counsel to a child or student whom I am concerned over.
If more of us would do this, with a genuine love and concern for the kids around this, perhaps they would develop the vision that we have of them for themselves.
Ironically, a little vision and appropriate discipline to direct children in the right way gives them the confidence and ability to see themselves at maximum potential. I have seen for the last 10 (almost) years of teaching this principle replay over and over in the lives of my most successful students. Their parents have taught them how to manage themselves. They are strong in moral direction. They are strong in achieving and knowing what they want. They know, better than others, who they are and what they are capable of.
My students who haven't had the time given to them to teach restraint and instill vision and proper principles...struggle. Not just with school work, but with how they view the world and themselves. They don't know how to contribute and how to help others around them. I do what I can at school to give direction, but these things MUST happen at home.
You can learn about parents from their children. Of course each child has his or her individuality, and some that struggle come from families that are ideal if every way. But most families that "have it together" or at least are really trying, have children coming into schools that are prepared to learn and understand the value of their school experience.
So. Where are my children? I hope they are going to be okay. I write out all these things and look others, but believe me when I say, I am looking at myself and my family. Thankfully I have a wonderful partner and wife to help me raise my children. Jenna knows a lot about how to help our children and her dance students see success and value their lives. I am happy for that. She was taught extremely well by her mother and the many other caring adults in her life. I also had countless examples of positive adulthood, as I was surrounded by parents, neighbors, teachers, uncles, aunts, and grandparents who took an interest in my well being. These people saw the positive and potential in me. They knew when to praise and they knew when to help me course correct. I would not be where I am without them. I hope they claim me!
To finish up, a scripture comes to mind from D&C 121:41-44:
"41 No power or influence can or ought to be maintained by virtue of the priesthood, only by persuasion, by long-suffering, by gentleness and meekness, and by love unfeigned; (NOT PRETEND!)
42 By kindness, and pure knowledge, which shall greatly enlarge the soul without hypocrisy, and without guile--
43 Reproving betimes with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost; and then showing forth afterwards and increase of love toward him whom thou hast reproved, lest he esteem thee to be his enemy.
44 That he may know that thy faithfulness is stronger than the cords of death."
May the children and other loved ones in our lives, whom we do have to reprove at times, know that our faithfulness and love for them is "stronger than the cords of death". May we direct them in good and uplifting paths that will empower them to a noble and bright future in difficult and confusing world. Line upon line and precept upon precept (2 Nephi 28:30) we can and must make a difference in those around us. Their future depends on us.
Elder Callister's talk can be found at this link: (https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/10/parents-the-prime-gospel-teachers-of-their-children?lang=eng)
The picture of Ben Carson came from this website (I do not own it!): http://www.wnd.com/2014/11/1393785/
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