This I Believe

            The family is ordained of God. I hear that phrase, listen to and read talks about the subject, and simply stated I believe it. When all is said and done and we leave this earthly existence, I believe that we will remember the familial relationships that we enjoyed in the pre-existence as well as long for the presence of those of our earthly family. I for one will be hopeful to hear the words, "well and faithfully done; enter into my joy and sit down on my throne" (Come let us Anew, LDS Hymnbook # 217).

Sometimes I like to think about what it might have been like before coming to this earth. I like to picture in my mind my family, past, present, and future. Perhaps we are gathered together singing or playing games. Perhaps we are giving words of encouragement or advice to someone getting ready to embark on their own mortal journey.

I believe that our Father in Heaven created a place for us where we could find joy and happiness through our own experience. I believe He knew that these experiences would sometimes be scary and frightening. I believe He knew we would need to have a family that would love us and hold our hands through the scary parts and rejoice with us when we triumphed.

Family units come in different shapes and sizes, and within these units there should be love and friendship, courtesy and kindness, safety and security. "The family is central to the creators plan for the eternal destiny of his children" (The Family: A Proclamation to the World) Families are ordained, supported, and encouraged by a God who loves all of His children.

I will forever remember the times my children conspired against me to make me laugh during family scripture reading or prayers! Sometimes they still do. And let's not forget dear old hubby. He has taken the opportunity numerous times, when apparently it has been too long since I have erupted, to say something quirky and light the fuse again. The undying love, unfailing support, and sometimes pretty strange and quirky ways that exist in my family unit, strengthen my belief that a family is ordained of God. "Men are that they might have joy", (2Nephi 2:25) and my family brings me great joy.

I will continue to read, study, and ponder about this subject and I will continue to believe.