Me gusta... part II

I love how, without fail, what I learn from reading my scriptures or the institute lesson, or from church/institute class, totally relates to something I've been thinking about or learned in a school class. For example, I am an ECE (Early Childhood Education) major, and we've been talking about effective discipline in one of my classes. An adult needs to correct a child by showing that they really care for them and that is why they are offering this advice. We've also learned about not labeling or name-calling children when they exhibit less than desirable behaviors, such as "Stop being a biter!" or "You're a brat!"

Anywho, most of the lessons in our Thursday 6:00 class, Teachings of the Living Prophets, have all had advice about parenting for the past few weeks. Most of them have been in the Priesthood session talks, but the principles are still applicable to those of us who will be mothers. One is to REALLY listen to kiddos when they talk to you. In my school class, we call this reflective listening, where you repeat back what you've heard the other person say. This works well in any kind of relationship. Also, take the time to really get to know your children. Be interested in what they are doing with their lives.

Take the time to build a trusting relationship when they are young. In school, we talk about attachment, and how important it is for young children to have at least one secure attachment. Young children need to learn that there is someone they can trust. As they trust in their parents, they are more likely to listen to their advice in later years.

In the Book of Mormon class, we shared some of our favorite scriptures from the readings. My sister, Denali, shared hers : " Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and thieves break through and steal; But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." (3 Ne 13:19-21).

The lesson manual had an awesome quote by Dallin H. Oaks:" The Savior taught that we should not lay up treasures on Earth but should lay up treasures in Heaven. In light of the ultimate purpose of the great plan of happiness, I believe that the ultimate treasures on Earth and in Heaven are our children and our posterity."

I love, love, love this! I can't wait for the day when I will be married and begin my own family. There is nothing more exciting than knowing that I will someday be a mother and commence in this great work! Sure, it may seem daunting, but it is such a great privilege as well. I am indeed grateful for this opportunity.

:D More awesomeness to follow :D