Eternal Marriage

I gained so much from the talks that we read in class this week.  One of the most important principles that stood out to me was how much our examples teach our children and also those whom we come into contact with in our daily lives.  This principle tied in beautifully with a thought from Elder Foster during General Conference – “Our children are the largest group of investigators of the Church.”  I just loved that and yet, I’d never really thought of my children as investigators.  But it’s so true.  They watch every single thing we do and it’s true that our actions speak louder than words.  I loved the story that Pres. Benson shared about his mother teaching him about the temple.  She was busily ironing the temple clothes and she took the time to stop what she was doing, and lovingly taught her little boy about the sacredness of the temple.  I love attending the temple and I know that the blessings of the temple are real.  I'm so grateful for my eternal family.  

I also loved that in Elder Hafen’s talk, he said that contract companions give 50% but covenant companions give 100%.  My husband and I and our kids were just sealed last January.  Since my husband joined the Church, and since we were sealed I have noticed a marked difference in how we handle things.  We are far from the “perfect” marriage but it’s been a true joy to see the blessings that have come into our lives as a result of making these sacred covenants. 

Last, I really took to heart Elder Bednar’s thoughts about understanding the intent of our enemies.  It reminded me of our readings last week.  As we strive to learn and grow, as we pay attention, we can learn what the enemy’s strategy is and then we’ll be more prepared to fight them.  I think that this is so important, on so many levels in our relationships.  From defending marriage publicly and privately, to knowing who our kids are hanging out with, knowing what they’re being taught in school, etc. etc.  I love that as a husband and wife strive to move closer to the Savior, it brings the husband and wife closer to each other until all are one, united.  That is what I want my marriage to be, as I believe that this is the only way to achieve true happiness and success in our marriages and in life in general.