October 8, 2010

I read Alma 32:26-43. These are, most definitely, some of the most beautiful verses of scripture to me. I really love these verses. They describe so beautifully how to exercise faith in an "experiment upon the word," to see if the word is good. Alma compares the word to a seed. One must "make a place" in their heart for the seed to be planted. If it grows you can know it is good. But that isn't the end, and this is the part that really stood out to me as I read. I have to continue to nourish the tree as it grows. If it dies because of the heat of the sun, it's not because the seed wasn't good, it's because my ground was barren. This is the state I am in with my faith now: I know the seed is good. It's growing and my faith is strengthening. My focus is on nourishing my faith every day. I want to partake of that fruit which is desirable above all else. I want to taste it. My tree of faith will only bear that fruit if I continue to nurture it and provide it nourishment. These verses are so beautiful. One day I would like to have them memorized and totally, unforgettably imprinted on my heart. I know the teachings of these verses certainly already is.

September 26, 2010

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.