I suggested he choose a picture from our gospel art book. The book was opened to page with this picture and he said, "Heavenly Father wants us to hold this lamb like Jesus." He said it as if the purpose of the picture was for Jesus to show us how to hold a lamb. I admit, in the moment, Clark and I looked at each other trying to hold the laughter in. Then Harris gave each of us a turn with the microphone and book. It wasn't until I was getting Teddy to bed that I thought about what he had taught us. Heavenly Father wants us to do everything like Jesus did them. I feel like this is the answer to my prayers about how to handle a difficult social situation in my life. I need to be kind and truth telling (sometimes seemingly mutually exclusive).
This weekend was conference weekend*. We watch 4 (5 if you are male 12 yrs. old or older) 2-hr. sessions of prophets and church leaders teaching us the good word via a worldwide tv semi-annual broadcast. We are invited to come with questions, praying that we will receive answers, and are promised divine response in return for our preparation and sincerity. I tried to prepare myself and my boys. I wrote down a list of questions, or situations that I hoped to receive guidance on. I talked with Harris for several days leading up to conference about what it was, why it was important and who would be speaking. I made treats, and little games and activities to try to create enthusiasm, and some order so we could listen. Despite my preparation, I didn't feel like I could listen as I would have liked. I felt uplifted, but I didn't feel like I received specific guidance for me. I wondered if next year Clark and I should each have one session where we locked ourselves in a room to watch it solo. But, that didn't seem to be the answer. I think there is something important and powerful about gathering as a family to listen. As I thought about it, I felt a little sad that I had missed out on something. But, quickly felt the assurance through God's Spirit that although, I couldn't participate without distractions and interruptions of two darling boys, God would use those very boys to teach me-- daily. I felt that my role as a mother wouldn't make it more difficult to receive divine response, but easier. Tonight I experienced it, and I am grateful for the beauty of God's hand in my life.
*to view or read transcripts of conference click here
