"Are we consciously creating righteous traditions [in our homes], or is life just happening to us?"
Righteous Traditions by Cheryl C. Lant
- This talk is awesome! It doesn't give parenting advice for any specific occurrences but it does give general parenting guidelines, that if followed will help children have a strong foundation in Christ in our world today.
"The most important traditions are connected with the way we live our lives and will last beyond us as our children’s lives are influenced and shaped."
"What kinds of traditions do we have?... Are they what we want them to be? Are they based on actions of righteousness and faith?... Are we consciously creating righteous traditions, or is life just happening to us? Are our traditions... influenced by the still, small voice of the Spirit? Are the traditions that we are creating in our families going to make it easier for our children to follow the living prophets...?"
...
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 13
I remember this talk well from a year ago, probably because I liked the stories so much!
Mother Told Me by Bradley D. Foster
This first little story is so cute, about a Dad reading a picture book to his son. If you haven't heard it, I won't try to summarize, just watch the first few minutes. I love it!
"As President James E. Faust said: 'There is no greater good in all the world than motherhood. The influence of a mother in the lives of her children is beyond calculation.' "
"By divine design, nurturing seems to be part of the spiritual heritage given to women."
...
Mother Told Me by Bradley D. Foster
This first little story is so cute, about a Dad reading a picture book to his son. If you haven't heard it, I won't try to summarize, just watch the first few minutes. I love it!
"As President James E. Faust said: 'There is no greater good in all the world than motherhood. The influence of a mother in the lives of her children is beyond calculation.' "
"By divine design, nurturing seems to be part of the spiritual heritage given to women."
...
Sunday, May 15, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 12
Well, the blogger website was down on Day 12 and it was so much easier to miss the other days, after this day was missed... so now I'm playing catch up!
This is probably the best quote I've read so far on parenting, to help keep things in perspective and keep me motivated!
"We hold in our arms the rising generation. They come to this earth with important responsibilities and great spiritual capacities. We cannot be casual in how we prepare them. Our challenge as parents and teachers is not to create a spiritual core in their souls but rather to fan the flame of their spiritual core already aglow with the fire of their premortal faith."
AWESOME!!!
Tell Me the Stories of Jesus by Neil L. Anderson
"In our world today, each child, each young man and young woman needs his or her own conversion to the truth. Each needs his or her own light, his or her own “steadfast and immovable” 7 faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, independent of parents, youth leaders, and supportive friends." ...
This is probably the best quote I've read so far on parenting, to help keep things in perspective and keep me motivated!
"We hold in our arms the rising generation. They come to this earth with important responsibilities and great spiritual capacities. We cannot be casual in how we prepare them. Our challenge as parents and teachers is not to create a spiritual core in their souls but rather to fan the flame of their spiritual core already aglow with the fire of their premortal faith."
AWESOME!!!
Tell Me the Stories of Jesus by Neil L. Anderson
"In our world today, each child, each young man and young woman needs his or her own conversion to the truth. Each needs his or her own light, his or her own “steadfast and immovable” 7 faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, independent of parents, youth leaders, and supportive friends." ...
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 11
Robbie and I both need to get more sleep. Sleep deprivation has a large effect on the extent of my patience during the day. So, today will just be a quick entry.
Establishing a Christ-Centered Home by Richard J. Maynes
From The Family: A Proclamation to the World
"The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ." ...
Establishing a Christ-Centered Home by Richard J. Maynes
From The Family: A Proclamation to the World
"The family is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ." ...
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 10
In church on Sunday, there were 2 mother/daughter couples singing a song for Mother's Day and I couldn't hold my emotion in at all! Such a sweet song and I want a daughter!
This talk applies to all relationships, but is specifically addressed to...
"There is nothing in this world as personal, as nurturing, or as life changing as the influence of a righteous woman."
- I think I've figured out how to better put into words how I feel as I read these General Conference talks. The reason I love these talks so much is because they make me feel good about what I'm doing as a person and mother, and then gently and subtly motivate me to keep moving forward and upward, to help me become what the Lord has intended for me...
This talk applies to all relationships, but is specifically addressed to...
Mothers and Daughters by M. Russell Ballard
"There is nothing in this world as personal, as nurturing, or as life changing as the influence of a righteous woman."
- I think I've figured out how to better put into words how I feel as I read these General Conference talks. The reason I love these talks so much is because they make me feel good about what I'm doing as a person and mother, and then gently and subtly motivate me to keep moving forward and upward, to help me become what the Lord has intended for me...
Monday, May 9, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 9
I receive such strength and motivation from reading these parenting talks, but usually I'm reading them right before bed. Not the best timing since the boys are already in bed and I really need the strength and motivation to be a more patient mother when they are awake. What a revelation right? :)
"And upon the Handmaids in Those Days Will I Pour Out My Spirit" by Julie B. Beck
"There has grown in me an overwhelming testimony of the value of daughters of God. So much depends on them. In my visits with the sisters, I have felt that there has never been a greater need for increased faith and personal righteousness. There has never been a greater need for strong families and homes." ...
"And upon the Handmaids in Those Days Will I Pour Out My Spirit" by Julie B. Beck
"There has grown in me an overwhelming testimony of the value of daughters of God. So much depends on them. In my visits with the sisters, I have felt that there has never been a greater need for increased faith and personal righteousness. There has never been a greater need for strong families and homes." ...
Sunday, May 8, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 8
The first talk to read was by Elder Bednar in October 2009 General Conference, More Diligent and Concerned at Home. The talk for today is another talk given by Elder Bednar in the very next General Conference. Both talks are so jam-packed with principles that you would miss so much unless you read and reread the talks! I am only including some of my highlighted parts of this talk.
Elder Bednar gives some of the most wonderful promises to parents if they will be vigilant and spiritually attentive.
Watching with All Perseverance by Elder David A. Bednar
"Spiritual warnings should lead to increasingly vigilant watching. You and I live in “a day of warning” (D&C 63:58). And because we have been and will be warned, we need to be, as the Apostle Paul admonished, “watching … with all perseverance” (Ephesians 6:18)."
- I often find myself relaxing, thinking all is well; in my family, in church and in my community. It is talks like this that put me back on my toes. Watching and waiting for the attacks on my family or the world around us.
"This early warning system applies to children of all ages and contains three basic components: (1) reading and talking about the Book of Mormon with your children, (2) bearing testimony of gospel truths spontaneously with your children, and (3) inviting children as gospel learners to act and not merely be acted upon. Parents who do these things faithfully will be blessed to recognize early signals of spiritual growth in or challenges with their children and be better prepared to receive inspiration to strengthen and help those children."
"Component Number One: Reading and Talking about the Book of Mormon with your children. he Book of Mormon contains the fullness of the Savior’s gospel and is the only book the Lord Himself has testified to be true. Indeed, the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion."
- I love all the new resources that the Church is using in order to help members study and share the gospel. I sometimes take for granted the "keystone" of our religion. I need to do better at making the Book of Mormon the "keystone" of our family.
"The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that abiding by the precepts found in the Book of Mormon would help us 'get nearer to God' than any other book... power to resist temptation and to produce feelings of love within our families. And discussions about the doctrines and principles in the Book of Mormon provide opportunities for parents to observe their children, to listen to them, to learn from them, and to teach them.
Youth of all ages, even infants, can and do respond to the distinctive spirit of the Book of Mormon. Children may not understand all of the words and stories, but they certainly can feel the 'familiar spirit' described by Isaiah. And the questions a child asks, the observations a child shares, and the discussions that occur provide crucial spiritual early warning signals. Importantly, such conversations can help parents to discern what their children are learning, thinking, and feeling about the truths contained in this sacred volume of scripture, as well as the difficulties they may be facing."
- Seriously? What better promises are there for parents? Of course it is easier said than done, but I receive these amazing blessings just from daily reading the Book of Mormon with my family?
"Component Number Two: Bearing Testimony Spontaneously
Parents should be vigilant and spiritually attentive to spontaneously occurring opportunities to bear testimony to their children."
- This quote is specifically speaking of bearing testimony, but if we cut off part of the sentence:
Parents should be vigilant and spiritually attentive.
What a great motto for a parent to live by!
"The reactions of children to such impromptu testimony bearing and their eagerness or reluctance to participate are potent sources of spiritual early warning signals. A child’s expression about a lesson learned in family scripture study or a candid statement of concern about a gospel principle or practice can be most illuminating and help parents better understand a child’s specific question or needs. Such discussions—especially when parents are as eager to listen intently as they are to talk—can foster a supportive and secure environment in the home and encourage ongoing communication about difficult topics."
- If we are paying attention and actively listening to our children (spoken and unspoken) we can know where they are at spiritually and emotionally.
"Component Number Three: Inviting Children to Act"
"...we 'seek learning … by study and also by faith...' "
"As gospel learners, we should be 'doers of the word, and not hearers only' (James 1:22). Our hearts are opened to the influence of the Holy Ghost as we properly exercise agency and act in accordance with correct principles—and we thereby invite His teaching and testifying power. Parents have the sacred responsibility to help children to act and to seek learning by faith..."
"Giving a man a fish feeds him for one meal. Teaching a man to fish feeds him for a lifetime. As parents and gospel instructors, you and I are not in the business of distributing fish; rather, our work is to help our children learn 'to fish' and to become spiritually steadfast. This vital objective is best accomplished as we encourage our children to act in accordance with correct principles—as we help them to learn by doing. 'If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God' (John 7:17)."
"Such learning requires spiritual, mental, and physical exertion and not just passive reception."
- I truly believe that the only way for parents to invite children to act, is to first set the example themselves and then to foster opportunities that allow the children to learn how to take action! This learning requires spiritual, mental, and physical exertion, and as parents it takes all of those things in order to create an environment where this is possible!
Elder Bednar gives some of the most wonderful promises to parents if they will be vigilant and spiritually attentive.
Watching with All Perseverance by Elder David A. Bednar
"Spiritual warnings should lead to increasingly vigilant watching. You and I live in “a day of warning” (D&C 63:58). And because we have been and will be warned, we need to be, as the Apostle Paul admonished, “watching … with all perseverance” (Ephesians 6:18)."
- I often find myself relaxing, thinking all is well; in my family, in church and in my community. It is talks like this that put me back on my toes. Watching and waiting for the attacks on my family or the world around us.
"This early warning system applies to children of all ages and contains three basic components: (1) reading and talking about the Book of Mormon with your children, (2) bearing testimony of gospel truths spontaneously with your children, and (3) inviting children as gospel learners to act and not merely be acted upon. Parents who do these things faithfully will be blessed to recognize early signals of spiritual growth in or challenges with their children and be better prepared to receive inspiration to strengthen and help those children."
"Component Number One: Reading and Talking about the Book of Mormon with your children. he Book of Mormon contains the fullness of the Savior’s gospel and is the only book the Lord Himself has testified to be true. Indeed, the Book of Mormon is the keystone of our religion."
- I love all the new resources that the Church is using in order to help members study and share the gospel. I sometimes take for granted the "keystone" of our religion. I need to do better at making the Book of Mormon the "keystone" of our family.
"The Prophet Joseph Smith taught that abiding by the precepts found in the Book of Mormon would help us 'get nearer to God' than any other book... power to resist temptation and to produce feelings of love within our families. And discussions about the doctrines and principles in the Book of Mormon provide opportunities for parents to observe their children, to listen to them, to learn from them, and to teach them.
Youth of all ages, even infants, can and do respond to the distinctive spirit of the Book of Mormon. Children may not understand all of the words and stories, but they certainly can feel the 'familiar spirit' described by Isaiah. And the questions a child asks, the observations a child shares, and the discussions that occur provide crucial spiritual early warning signals. Importantly, such conversations can help parents to discern what their children are learning, thinking, and feeling about the truths contained in this sacred volume of scripture, as well as the difficulties they may be facing."
- Seriously? What better promises are there for parents? Of course it is easier said than done, but I receive these amazing blessings just from daily reading the Book of Mormon with my family?
"Component Number Two: Bearing Testimony Spontaneously
Parents should be vigilant and spiritually attentive to spontaneously occurring opportunities to bear testimony to their children."
- This quote is specifically speaking of bearing testimony, but if we cut off part of the sentence:
Parents should be vigilant and spiritually attentive.
What a great motto for a parent to live by!
"The reactions of children to such impromptu testimony bearing and their eagerness or reluctance to participate are potent sources of spiritual early warning signals. A child’s expression about a lesson learned in family scripture study or a candid statement of concern about a gospel principle or practice can be most illuminating and help parents better understand a child’s specific question or needs. Such discussions—especially when parents are as eager to listen intently as they are to talk—can foster a supportive and secure environment in the home and encourage ongoing communication about difficult topics."
- If we are paying attention and actively listening to our children (spoken and unspoken) we can know where they are at spiritually and emotionally.
"Component Number Three: Inviting Children to Act"
"...we 'seek learning … by study and also by faith...' "
"As gospel learners, we should be 'doers of the word, and not hearers only' (James 1:22). Our hearts are opened to the influence of the Holy Ghost as we properly exercise agency and act in accordance with correct principles—and we thereby invite His teaching and testifying power. Parents have the sacred responsibility to help children to act and to seek learning by faith..."
"Giving a man a fish feeds him for one meal. Teaching a man to fish feeds him for a lifetime. As parents and gospel instructors, you and I are not in the business of distributing fish; rather, our work is to help our children learn 'to fish' and to become spiritually steadfast. This vital objective is best accomplished as we encourage our children to act in accordance with correct principles—as we help them to learn by doing. 'If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God' (John 7:17)."
"Such learning requires spiritual, mental, and physical exertion and not just passive reception."
- I truly believe that the only way for parents to invite children to act, is to first set the example themselves and then to foster opportunities that allow the children to learn how to take action! This learning requires spiritual, mental, and physical exertion, and as parents it takes all of those things in order to create an environment where this is possible!
Saturday, May 7, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 7
The talk for today is one that I've been (regretfully) skipping over for a couple days, because it's one of the longest talks I have, and because it's more about the priesthood than parenting. But I'm so glad I read it tonight. Yesterday, Robbie and Joe Weatherly gave a blessing to Taylor because he's been sick for 4+ days. I held Taylor in my lap while the blessing was given and I could feel the power of the priesthood circle around us. The power of God truly is on the earth today, given to worthy men of the Church to work miracles in the name of Jesus Christ.
As I was reading this talk, I felt the great responsibility my 3 boys have in the last days before the Savior comes again to the earth. Elder Packer: "Priesthood is the authority and the power which God has granted to men on earth to act for Him. When priesthood authority is exercised properly, priesthood bearers do what He would do if He were present." Then it turned into the great roles Robbie and I play in teaching them correct principles that the can hold and use the priesthood, and act in the name of God.
There are several great stories in this talk that touched my heart.
The Power of the Priesthood by President Boyd K. Packer
I love the first scripture reference in his talk...
"Gideon had an interesting way of selecting his recruits. When the men drank water at a stream, most 'bowed down … to drink.' Those he passed over. A few scooped up water in their hands and drank, remaining completely alert. They were the ones chosen...Gideon’s small force succeeded because, as the record states, 'they stood every man in his place.' "
"...we are who we are, and we know what we know, and we are to go forth and preach the gospel."
"President Joseph Fielding Smith said, 'While it may be said … that we are but a handful in comparison with … the world, yet we may be compared with the leaven of which the Savior spoke, which will eventually leaven [or lift] the whole world.' "
- This is a great responsibility we have as member of the Church.
"Priesthood is the authority and the power which God has granted to men on earth to act for Him. 23 When priesthood authority is exercised properly, priesthood bearers do what He would do if He were present."
Great quote for dads:
"President Harold B. Lee stated: “It seems clear to me that the Church hasno choice—and never has had—but to do more to assist the family in carrying out its divine mission, not only because that is the order of heaven, but also because that is the most practical contribution we can make to our youth—to help improve the quality of life in the Latter-day Saint homes. As important as our many programs and organizational efforts are, these should not supplant the home; they should support the home.”
"The prophet Nephi also told of 'the power of the Lamb of God, that it descended upon the saints of the church of the Lamb, and upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth” and said that “they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory.' "
"Too many of our priesthood brethren are living below their privileges and the Lord’s expectations."
- We need to live worthy of the privilege God gave us in coming here to this earth, and live up to His expectations. Another great talk about this topic is Now Let Us Rejoice by Barbara Thompson (which I will review on another day.) "As Joseph declared, 'If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.' "
"Homes without the priesthood are to be watched over and ministered to by the quorums of the priesthood. In this manner no blessings will be found wanting in any dwelling within the Church."
"...power in the priesthood comes through faithful and obedient living in honoring covenants. It is increased by exercising and using the priesthood in righteousness."
"There will be times when all that stands as a shield between your family and the adversary’s mischief will be that power. You will receive direction from the Lord by way of the gift of the Holy Ghost."
"The ultimate end of all activity in the Church is that a man and his wife and their children might be happy at home, protected by the principles and laws of the gospel, sealed safely in the covenants of the everlasting priesthood."
- This is where I know that Satan's plan has failed and the Lord's plan has succeeded! Protect the home, and do whatever is necessary.
As I was reading this talk, I felt the great responsibility my 3 boys have in the last days before the Savior comes again to the earth. Elder Packer: "Priesthood is the authority and the power which God has granted to men on earth to act for Him. When priesthood authority is exercised properly, priesthood bearers do what He would do if He were present." Then it turned into the great roles Robbie and I play in teaching them correct principles that the can hold and use the priesthood, and act in the name of God.
There are several great stories in this talk that touched my heart.
The Power of the Priesthood by President Boyd K. Packer
I love the first scripture reference in his talk...
"Gideon had an interesting way of selecting his recruits. When the men drank water at a stream, most 'bowed down … to drink.' Those he passed over. A few scooped up water in their hands and drank, remaining completely alert. They were the ones chosen...Gideon’s small force succeeded because, as the record states, 'they stood every man in his place.' "
"...we are who we are, and we know what we know, and we are to go forth and preach the gospel."
"President Joseph Fielding Smith said, 'While it may be said … that we are but a handful in comparison with … the world, yet we may be compared with the leaven of which the Savior spoke, which will eventually leaven [or lift] the whole world.' "
- This is a great responsibility we have as member of the Church.
"Priesthood is the authority and the power which God has granted to men on earth to act for Him. 23 When priesthood authority is exercised properly, priesthood bearers do what He would do if He were present."
Great quote for dads:
"President Harold B. Lee stated: “It seems clear to me that the Church hasno choice—and never has had—but to do more to assist the family in carrying out its divine mission, not only because that is the order of heaven, but also because that is the most practical contribution we can make to our youth—to help improve the quality of life in the Latter-day Saint homes. As important as our many programs and organizational efforts are, these should not supplant the home; they should support the home.”
"The prophet Nephi also told of 'the power of the Lamb of God, that it descended upon the saints of the church of the Lamb, and upon the covenant people of the Lord, who were scattered upon all the face of the earth” and said that “they were armed with righteousness and with the power of God in great glory.' "
"Too many of our priesthood brethren are living below their privileges and the Lord’s expectations."
- We need to live worthy of the privilege God gave us in coming here to this earth, and live up to His expectations. Another great talk about this topic is Now Let Us Rejoice by Barbara Thompson (which I will review on another day.) "As Joseph declared, 'If you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates.' "
"Homes without the priesthood are to be watched over and ministered to by the quorums of the priesthood. In this manner no blessings will be found wanting in any dwelling within the Church."
"...power in the priesthood comes through faithful and obedient living in honoring covenants. It is increased by exercising and using the priesthood in righteousness."
"There will be times when all that stands as a shield between your family and the adversary’s mischief will be that power. You will receive direction from the Lord by way of the gift of the Holy Ghost."
"The ultimate end of all activity in the Church is that a man and his wife and their children might be happy at home, protected by the principles and laws of the gospel, sealed safely in the covenants of the everlasting priesthood."
- This is where I know that Satan's plan has failed and the Lord's plan has succeeded! Protect the home, and do whatever is necessary.
Friday, May 6, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 6
Taylor has been sick for 4 days now, and I've had to be more patient and loving because it is so obvious how awful he feels. He just lies around the house all day. I have to take him to the bathroom, or to the table. It's really heartbreaking to see no energy in him.
Today's talk is basically Parenting 101 in a nutshell...
Stay on the Path by Rosemary M. Wixom
"We can stop, kneel down, and look into their eyes and feel of their innate desire to follow the Savior. Take hold of their hands. Walk with them. It is our chance to anchor them on the path of faith."
"No child needs to walk the path alone so long as we speak freely to our children of the plan of salvation. Understanding the plan will help them hold to the truths that they are children of God and He has a plan for them, that they lived with Him in the premortal existence, that they shouted for joy to come to this earth, and that through the Savior’s help, we all can return to our Heavenly Father’s presence. If they understand the plan and who they are, they will not fear."
"Our example is magnified in their eyes."
"The world will teach our children if we do not, and children are capable of learning all the world will teach them at a very young age. What we want them to know five years from now needs to be part of our conversation with them today. Teach them in every circumstance; let every dilemma, every consequence, every trial that they may face provide an opportunity to teach them how to hold on to gospel truths."
"...our children can find the courage to “do whatever is necessary.” When we are intentional about holding them and teaching them of Heavenly Father’s plan through prayer and scriptures, they will come to know where they came from, why they are here, and where they are going."
"The Savior has 'marked the path and led the way.' I testify that as we hold on to our children and follow the Savior’s lead, we will all return to our heavenly home and be safe in our Heavenly Father’s arms."
I think these are the basic concepts of the Parenting 101 class.
Today's talk is basically Parenting 101 in a nutshell...
Stay on the Path by Rosemary M. Wixom
"We can stop, kneel down, and look into their eyes and feel of their innate desire to follow the Savior. Take hold of their hands. Walk with them. It is our chance to anchor them on the path of faith."
"No child needs to walk the path alone so long as we speak freely to our children of the plan of salvation. Understanding the plan will help them hold to the truths that they are children of God and He has a plan for them, that they lived with Him in the premortal existence, that they shouted for joy to come to this earth, and that through the Savior’s help, we all can return to our Heavenly Father’s presence. If they understand the plan and who they are, they will not fear."
"Our example is magnified in their eyes."
"The world will teach our children if we do not, and children are capable of learning all the world will teach them at a very young age. What we want them to know five years from now needs to be part of our conversation with them today. Teach them in every circumstance; let every dilemma, every consequence, every trial that they may face provide an opportunity to teach them how to hold on to gospel truths."
"...our children can find the courage to “do whatever is necessary.” When we are intentional about holding them and teaching them of Heavenly Father’s plan through prayer and scriptures, they will come to know where they came from, why they are here, and where they are going."
"The Savior has 'marked the path and led the way.' I testify that as we hold on to our children and follow the Savior’s lead, we will all return to our heavenly home and be safe in our Heavenly Father’s arms."
I think these are the basic concepts of the Parenting 101 class.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 5
This wonderful talk is another one of those inspiring talks that motivates me as a parent into action.
That Our Children Might See the Face of the Savior by Cheryl C. Lant
This talk is so good that I highlighted a good majority of it, so here are just a few of my favorites...
"Again the question, how do we do this, especially in a world that is full of distractions? In 3 Nephi, the parents loved the Lord. They were believers. They had faith in the miracles Jesus performed. They loved their children. They gathered them to hear the words of the Lord and obeyed His commandment to bring the children to Him."
- It seems so difficult in the world today to show our children what behavior is best, when they see over and over the "world's behavior" and because it has become so "natural," this way almost seems easier.
Speaking of the Nephite parents in 3 Nephi: "By coming to the Savior and accepting His Atonement, these parents were strengthened to do all that was necessary to 'bring; their children."
- It gives me great reassurance to know that the Lord is on my side (or more accurately I'm on His side and by choosing His side I receive the greatest guidance possible for a parent.)
"We can help them to one day see the face of the Savior as we teach the principles of the gospel and fill our homes with the joy of living them."
- We try to follow the guidelines of holding Family Home Evening, Scripture Study and Family Prayer. I'm also trying to teach them to have personal scripture study and personal prayer but it feels like a lot of the time it is just a battle to get them to sit in one spot. I feel like there is no joy in doing these things. This is something that I really need to work on and get better at.
"We must learn how to love the Lord and our families. This takes time, experience, and faith. It requires selfless service. Then, as we do we are filled with the love of the Lord, we can love."
- As I read this quote the second time, I came to a realization...
This is not talked about much by mothers, but I was one of those moms that did not feel that instant, overwhelming, motherly bond. Of course, I loved my little bundles of joy, but it took a little while to feel that intense motherly love. I learned to love my children, just as they learned to love and trust me. This quote made me realize that I love my children, but I need to continue to learn to love my children. They are growing and changing, and so must my love.
Do I allow myself to be filled with the love of the Lord? I know that as I learn to love the Lord and am filled with His love, I can learn to love my children daily, even with the trials and struggles.
"It takes a lot of hard work and patience and faith, but nothing is more important or rewarding. And the Lord will help us, for He loves these children even more tan we do. He loves them, and He will bless them."
"For we are the ones God has appointed to encircle today's children with love and the fire of faith and an understanding of who they are."
That Our Children Might See the Face of the Savior by Cheryl C. Lant
This talk is so good that I highlighted a good majority of it, so here are just a few of my favorites...
"Again the question, how do we do this, especially in a world that is full of distractions? In 3 Nephi, the parents loved the Lord. They were believers. They had faith in the miracles Jesus performed. They loved their children. They gathered them to hear the words of the Lord and obeyed His commandment to bring the children to Him."
- It seems so difficult in the world today to show our children what behavior is best, when they see over and over the "world's behavior" and because it has become so "natural," this way almost seems easier.
Speaking of the Nephite parents in 3 Nephi: "By coming to the Savior and accepting His Atonement, these parents were strengthened to do all that was necessary to 'bring; their children."
- It gives me great reassurance to know that the Lord is on my side (or more accurately I'm on His side and by choosing His side I receive the greatest guidance possible for a parent.)
"We can help them to one day see the face of the Savior as we teach the principles of the gospel and fill our homes with the joy of living them."
- We try to follow the guidelines of holding Family Home Evening, Scripture Study and Family Prayer. I'm also trying to teach them to have personal scripture study and personal prayer but it feels like a lot of the time it is just a battle to get them to sit in one spot. I feel like there is no joy in doing these things. This is something that I really need to work on and get better at.
"We must learn how to love the Lord and our families. This takes time, experience, and faith. It requires selfless service. Then, as we do we are filled with the love of the Lord, we can love."
- As I read this quote the second time, I came to a realization...
This is not talked about much by mothers, but I was one of those moms that did not feel that instant, overwhelming, motherly bond. Of course, I loved my little bundles of joy, but it took a little while to feel that intense motherly love. I learned to love my children, just as they learned to love and trust me. This quote made me realize that I love my children, but I need to continue to learn to love my children. They are growing and changing, and so must my love.
Do I allow myself to be filled with the love of the Lord? I know that as I learn to love the Lord and am filled with His love, I can learn to love my children daily, even with the trials and struggles.
"It takes a lot of hard work and patience and faith, but nothing is more important or rewarding. And the Lord will help us, for He loves these children even more tan we do. He loves them, and He will bless them."
"For we are the ones God has appointed to encircle today's children with love and the fire of faith and an understanding of who they are."
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 4
Day 4: It's kind of late, but when I've only gotten 6 hours of sleep and woken up 4 times in the night with a sick child, it feels really late. My husband told me to go to bed, but I said I hadn't made my daily entry yet. He said don't do it. I hesitated, thought about it, and said, "I have to." He asked why and I replied, "because it is my goal." I am getting better but still struggling with patience and know I could be more nurturing and loving. This is why I must stick to my goal, so that I can receive the blessings from studying the words of the prophets.
This is another one of those talks that I find amazing. Elder Cook recognizes the awesome contributions that the women of the Church give, and at least for me, I receive satisfaction in knowing that we are recognized. But more importantly it gives me the resolve to continue doing what I'm doing and motivation to do some of those other things that I am not currently accomplishing.
LDS Women and Incredible! by Elder Quentin L. Cook
"God placed within women divine qualities of strength, virtue, love, and the willingness to sacrifice to raise future generations of His spirit children."
"Women by divine nature have the greater gift and responsibility for home and children and nurturing there and in other settings... it would be their unwavering faith in the restored gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ."
Speaking of Heritage Pioneer Sisters: "The heroic accounts of what these pioneer women sacrificed and accomplished as they crossed the plains is a priceless legacy to the Church."
Elizabeth Jackson: "I believe... that my sufferings for the Gospel's sake will be sanctified unto me for my good... Elizabeth said she was writing the history on behalf of those who passed through like scenes with the hope that posterity would be willing to suffer and sacrifice all things for the kingdom of God."
- I am in awe at her unwaivering faith through her trials. She is laying the foundation of faith for her posterity.
"Much of what we accomplish in the Church is due to the selfless service of women."
I love this cute story of the lost purse of a Young Woman at a church sponsored dance. I have to include it!
"When I was recently assigned to a conference in the Mission Viejo California Stake, I was touched by an account of their four-stake New Year’s Eve youth dance. Following the dance, a purse was found with no outside identification. I share with you part of what Sister Monica Sedgwick, the Young Women president in the Laguna Niguel stake, recorded: “We didn’t want to pry; this was someone’s personal stuff! So we gingerly opened it and grabbed the first thing that was on top—hopefully, it would identify her. It did, but in another way—it was a For the Strength of Youth pamphlet. Wow! This told us something about her. Then we reached in for the next item, a little notebook. Surely this would give us answers, but not the kind we were expecting. The first page was a list of favorite scriptures. There were five more pages of carefully written scriptures and personal notes.”
A great report about the members of our church:
"The recent highly acclaimed book American Grace reported on women in many faiths. It noted that Latter-day Saint women are unique in being overwhelmingly satisfied with their role in Church leadership. Furthermore, Latter-day Saints as a whole, men and women, have the strongest attachment to their faith of any of the religions studied. "
"Our women are not incredible because they have managed to avoid the difficulties of life- quiten the opposite. They are incredible because of the way they face trials of life..' they remain remarkable strong and immovable and tue to the faith. Our sisters throughout the Church consistently 'succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees."
This next quote is so true!
"One Relief Society president who acknowledged this extraordinary service said, “Even when the sisters serve, they are thinking, ‘If only I could have done more!’” Though they are not perfect and all face individual struggles, their faith in a loving Father in Heaven and the assurance of the atoning sacrifice of the Savior permeates their lives."
I also really like the story of the ordination of 63 younger adult men in Tonga.
"Another woman... felt "the biggest enemy of a happy family life was not paid work- it was television. She said that families are TV rich and family-time poor.' "
"No woman should ever feel the need to apologize or feel that her contribution is less significant because she is devoting her primary efforts to raising and nurturing children."
A great quote to express my responsibility:
The "errand of angels is given to women."
Be better and do more!
This is another one of those talks that I find amazing. Elder Cook recognizes the awesome contributions that the women of the Church give, and at least for me, I receive satisfaction in knowing that we are recognized. But more importantly it gives me the resolve to continue doing what I'm doing and motivation to do some of those other things that I am not currently accomplishing.
LDS Women and Incredible! by Elder Quentin L. Cook
"God placed within women divine qualities of strength, virtue, love, and the willingness to sacrifice to raise future generations of His spirit children."
"Women by divine nature have the greater gift and responsibility for home and children and nurturing there and in other settings... it would be their unwavering faith in the restored gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ."
Speaking of Heritage Pioneer Sisters: "The heroic accounts of what these pioneer women sacrificed and accomplished as they crossed the plains is a priceless legacy to the Church."
Elizabeth Jackson: "I believe... that my sufferings for the Gospel's sake will be sanctified unto me for my good... Elizabeth said she was writing the history on behalf of those who passed through like scenes with the hope that posterity would be willing to suffer and sacrifice all things for the kingdom of God."
- I am in awe at her unwaivering faith through her trials. She is laying the foundation of faith for her posterity.
"Much of what we accomplish in the Church is due to the selfless service of women."
I love this cute story of the lost purse of a Young Woman at a church sponsored dance. I have to include it!
"When I was recently assigned to a conference in the Mission Viejo California Stake, I was touched by an account of their four-stake New Year’s Eve youth dance. Following the dance, a purse was found with no outside identification. I share with you part of what Sister Monica Sedgwick, the Young Women president in the Laguna Niguel stake, recorded: “We didn’t want to pry; this was someone’s personal stuff! So we gingerly opened it and grabbed the first thing that was on top—hopefully, it would identify her. It did, but in another way—it was a For the Strength of Youth pamphlet. Wow! This told us something about her. Then we reached in for the next item, a little notebook. Surely this would give us answers, but not the kind we were expecting. The first page was a list of favorite scriptures. There were five more pages of carefully written scriptures and personal notes.”
The sisters immediately wanted to meet this stalwart young woman. They returned to that purse to identify its owner. They pulled out some breath mints, soap, lotion, and a brush. I loved their comments: “Oh, good things come out of her mouth; she has clean and soft hands; and she takes care of herself.”
They eagerly awaited the next treasure. Out came a clever little homemade coin purse made from a cardboard juice carton, and there was some money in a zippered pocket. They exclaimed, “Ahh, she’s creative and prepared!” They felt like little children on Christmas morning. What they pulled out next surprised them even more: a recipe for Black Forest chocolate cake and a note to make the cake for a friend’s birthday. They almost screamed, “She’s a HOMEMAKER! Thoughtful and service minded.” Then, yes, finally some identification. The youth leaders said they felt greatly blessed “to observe the quiet example of a young lady living the gospel.”
"Many of these responsibilities do not provide economic compensation but do provide satisfaction and are eternally significant."A great report about the members of our church:
"The recent highly acclaimed book American Grace reported on women in many faiths. It noted that Latter-day Saint women are unique in being overwhelmingly satisfied with their role in Church leadership. Furthermore, Latter-day Saints as a whole, men and women, have the strongest attachment to their faith of any of the religions studied. "
"Our women are not incredible because they have managed to avoid the difficulties of life- quiten the opposite. They are incredible because of the way they face trials of life..' they remain remarkable strong and immovable and tue to the faith. Our sisters throughout the Church consistently 'succor the weak, lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees."
This next quote is so true!
"One Relief Society president who acknowledged this extraordinary service said, “Even when the sisters serve, they are thinking, ‘If only I could have done more!’” Though they are not perfect and all face individual struggles, their faith in a loving Father in Heaven and the assurance of the atoning sacrifice of the Savior permeates their lives."
I also really like the story of the ordination of 63 younger adult men in Tonga.
"Another woman... felt "the biggest enemy of a happy family life was not paid work- it was television. She said that families are TV rich and family-time poor.' "
"No woman should ever feel the need to apologize or feel that her contribution is less significant because she is devoting her primary efforts to raising and nurturing children."
A great quote to express my responsibility:
The "errand of angels is given to women."
Be better and do more!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 3
I love this next General Conference talk, from April 2010
Mothers Teaching Children in the Home by Elder L. Tom Perry
I can't even begin to explain the amazement I feel when the General Authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints speak. They are so good at gently telling us what we need to better, but at the same time giving us the motivation and confidence to actually get up and do it!
These are some of the quotes I find so encouraging.
"Parents must resolve that teaching in the home is a most sacred and important responsibility."
"According to the great plan of happiness, it is parents who are entrusted with the care and development of our Heavenly Father's children."
"It is parents who have been commanded by the Lord to bring up their children in light and truth."
"We [the leaders of the Church] believe in the immense power of teaching to increase faith of individuals and strengthen families."
"It is by divine design that the role of motherhood emphasizes the nurturing and teaching of the next generation."
"Elder Joseph Fielding Smith taught: 'It is the duty of parents to teach their children these saving principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, so that they will know why they are to be baptized and that they may be impressed in their hearts with a desire to continue to keep the commandments of God after they are baptized, that they may come back into his presence. Do you, my good brethren and sisters, want your families, your children; do you want to be sealed to year fathers and your bothers before you ... ? If so, then you must begin by teaching at the cradle-side. You are to teach by example as well as precept."
This wonderful talk gives me light and truth as to what I need to do, to be better at nurturing and teaching my children. As I said earlier, it gives me the confidence that I can do those things to be a better mom, as well as being more loving and nurturing.
Mothers Teaching Children in the Home by Elder L. Tom Perry
I can't even begin to explain the amazement I feel when the General Authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints speak. They are so good at gently telling us what we need to better, but at the same time giving us the motivation and confidence to actually get up and do it!
These are some of the quotes I find so encouraging.
"Parents must resolve that teaching in the home is a most sacred and important responsibility."
"According to the great plan of happiness, it is parents who are entrusted with the care and development of our Heavenly Father's children."
"It is parents who have been commanded by the Lord to bring up their children in light and truth."
"We [the leaders of the Church] believe in the immense power of teaching to increase faith of individuals and strengthen families."
"It is by divine design that the role of motherhood emphasizes the nurturing and teaching of the next generation."
"Elder Joseph Fielding Smith taught: 'It is the duty of parents to teach their children these saving principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ, so that they will know why they are to be baptized and that they may be impressed in their hearts with a desire to continue to keep the commandments of God after they are baptized, that they may come back into his presence. Do you, my good brethren and sisters, want your families, your children; do you want to be sealed to year fathers and your bothers before you ... ? If so, then you must begin by teaching at the cradle-side. You are to teach by example as well as precept."
This wonderful talk gives me light and truth as to what I need to do, to be better at nurturing and teaching my children. As I said earlier, it gives me the confidence that I can do those things to be a better mom, as well as being more loving and nurturing.
Monday, May 2, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 2
The Conference talk for today was taken from the April 2010 General Conference. In that conference there were over 30 talks given and almost 1 out of every 3 talks given were about families, parenting or family history. This is obviously a very important topic that the leaders of the Church are very concerned about.
The talk is:
Help Them on Their Way Home by President Henry B. Eyring
My favorite highlights
"[God] wants them to gain early the spiritual strength to stay on the path."
"We help God's children best by providing ways to build faith in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel when they are young. And then we must help rekindle that faith quickly before it dims as they wander off the path."
"Our most important and powerful assignments are in the family. They are important because the family has the opportunity at the start of a child;s life to put feet firmly on the path home."
"[Bishops] realize that a strong spiritual foundation can make the difference for a lifetime."
"...because of her example they [the children] learned to feel and recognize the Holy Ghost. And when they did, they were well on their way to the faith to resist temptation."
"Then something came to his memory. He knew he was supposed to pray... And I have been ever grateful he was taught to pray with faith that help would come when he was lost. That faith has led him to safety and brought him more rescuers more times than he can count."
"President Monson put it this way: we must 'learn what we should learn, do what we should do, and be what we should be.' "
"On reflection I realized that the contents of these booklets [Personal Progress for Young Women and Duty to God for the Young Men] are a physical representation of the Lord's trust in the rising generation and in all of us who love them. And I have seen evidence that the trust is well placed."
- The Lord has great faith in and love for the young people in the church.
Sometimes with 3 boys who are very young (4 years, 2 years and 1 year) it is difficult to see how anything is getting through to them. But last night we were reviewing the Book of Mormon story of Abinadi. Even though we haven't talked about that story in a little while he was still able to remember those in the story and point out those people in the picture depicting the story.
The talk is:
Help Them on Their Way Home by President Henry B. Eyring
My favorite highlights
"[God] wants them to gain early the spiritual strength to stay on the path."
"We help God's children best by providing ways to build faith in Jesus Christ and His restored gospel when they are young. And then we must help rekindle that faith quickly before it dims as they wander off the path."
"Our most important and powerful assignments are in the family. They are important because the family has the opportunity at the start of a child;s life to put feet firmly on the path home."
"[Bishops] realize that a strong spiritual foundation can make the difference for a lifetime."
"...because of her example they [the children] learned to feel and recognize the Holy Ghost. And when they did, they were well on their way to the faith to resist temptation."
"Then something came to his memory. He knew he was supposed to pray... And I have been ever grateful he was taught to pray with faith that help would come when he was lost. That faith has led him to safety and brought him more rescuers more times than he can count."
"President Monson put it this way: we must 'learn what we should learn, do what we should do, and be what we should be.' "
"On reflection I realized that the contents of these booklets [Personal Progress for Young Women and Duty to God for the Young Men] are a physical representation of the Lord's trust in the rising generation and in all of us who love them. And I have seen evidence that the trust is well placed."
- The Lord has great faith in and love for the young people in the church.
Sometimes with 3 boys who are very young (4 years, 2 years and 1 year) it is difficult to see how anything is getting through to them. But last night we were reviewing the Book of Mormon story of Abinadi. Even though we haven't talked about that story in a little while he was still able to remember those in the story and point out those people in the picture depicting the story.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
31 Days to Better Parenting: Day 1
I need to be a better mom. I've been struggling with the boys lately. Isaac is testing his boundaries, not listening and being a little more aggressive than normal. Taylor whines about EVERYTHING!!! Seriously all day, every day. And Parker has his two upper canines breaking through, and is horribly cranky. It is hard, really hard for me right now.
But today at church we had an awesome testimony meeting. (Testimony meeting generally happens on the first Sunday of every month, where during the main meeting of our church, people of the congregation who have a desire, bear their testimony up at the pulpit.) One of the testimonies was really sad about how her sister and niece were in a skiing accident, and the little girl didn't make it. But her take on the accident and dealing with the loss was amazing. She said how she found peace through the Holy Ghost, and the Atonement of our Savior. Then a man got up and told how he and his wife had tried to get pregnant with their third baby for years, and had all but given up hope. Then by a miracle she got pregnant, and has had a difficult pregnancy. During a visit to the doctor they found that the cord was wrapped around the baby's neck. They did an emergency C-Section. The baby was only 3 pounds, but is doing well and breathing on her own.
Later when I was thinking about the testimony meeting, I felt how silly my hardships are right now... extremely loud boys, who whine and fight all day, compared to losing a child or having a premature baby.
I can and need to deal with my hardships better, because I can be better.
Last year our stake president (a local church leader) gave a promise that if parents would study and apply the counsel of the apostles from General Conference (a semi-annual meeting where the highest leaders in our church speak to the entire church) we would receive the greatest counsel but even better we would receive direction from the Holy Ghost on how to be better parents.
I have compiled the parenting talks over the last few years, so I can take advantage of that promise and become a better and more Christ\like parent.
The first talk was given by David A. Bednar in October 2009
These are some of the feelings that I had while reading this talk:
"As disciples of the Savior, we are not merely striving to know more; rather, we need to consistently do more of what we know is right and become better."
- This quote is similarly quoted again in the talk. I need to do what I already know I should be doing. Simple enough right? At least for me it is harder said than done.
"Just as our love of and for the Lord is evidenced by walking ever in His ways, so our love for spouse, parents, and children is reflected most powerfully in our thought, our work, and our deeds."
- The only way to truly love the Lord is through our actions, so it is in my family, too. I must show my love and be who I want my family to see.
In regards to bearing testimony of Christ or the gospel: "The power of pure testimony does not come form sophisticated language or effective presentation; rather, it is the result of revelation conveyed by the third member of the Godhead, even the Holy Ghost."
- I don't need to worry about what to say when the time comes to bear testimony to my family, because the Holy Ghost will guide my.
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