Tonight I read a General Conference talk by M. Russell Ballard called Mothers and Daughters. A few things stood out to me, especially in relation to my study on gender. He says that, "all women have within their divine nature both the inherent talent and the stewardship to mother." He encourages women and girls to "find joy in nurturing children. This is where their love and talents can have the greatest eternal significance." "The most precious element of a woman's divine nature [is] the nature to nurture." These stood out to me as key components of what the Lord expects from His righteous daughters: a mothering, nurturing being who is focused on directing her talents and gifts towards children - the rising generation.
The other thing that really stood out to me from this talk is how important it is, as a parent, to teach by example. My kids will be watching me "to see if [my] actions match [my] words." I know that as a child I certainly watched my parents in that way and I determined in my youth that as a parent, my words and actions would match up. He also says that "in these last days it is essential - even critical - that parents and children listen to and learn from one another." I believe that is so important to remember... the learning is a two-way street. I know my children will have much to teach me as well and I look forward to listening and learning from them.
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