Okay, so three different topics this week, but all of equal importance! I couldn't think of a common image among them, and I was NOT about to type anything with the word pornography into google images, so I settled (well, it definitely wasn't settling) for this beautiful picture of the Washington D.C. Temple."Overcoming the Powerful Influence of Pornography"
* "Pornography is everywhere with its seductive invitation. You must turn away from it. It can enslave you. It can destroy you. Recognize it for what it is- tawdry and sleazy stuff...Life is better than that which is so frequently portrayed. Nature is better than that. Love is better than that."
~ Pres. Gordon B. Hinckley
* It's important to understand that pornography is an addiction that cannot be overcome without help. Yet no matter how strong the addiction, no matter how much we have suffered, we CAN break the bonds of sin through Christ. If we do our part and rely wholly on the Lord, we will overcome Satan. It works. Every time!
* Have an "emergency kit" when temptation is strong. It might be a box filled with little things to look at, reminders of the things that are really important. For example, a temple recommend, a picture of your family, gift certificates for good activities, inspirational quotes, etc.
* Don't give up!
"Teaching Principles of Modesty and Chastity"
* "Teach young men to honor womanhood and to treat women respectfully, beginning with their mother and sisters. Help them understand the responsibility God has given them to protect women, and make it a practice for men in the family to speak and act respectfully toward all women."
* Talk openly with your kids about the importance of modesty. Interesting fact: the parent-child relationship often determines what kind of peers your teenagers will choose. Cultivate a strong relationship with your children.
and finally...
"Creating Healthy Ties with In-Laws and Extended Families"
* After marriage, don't run home to your parents about your first problems. Your spouse may feel belittled or betrayed. Talk first with your spouse about the issue. Avoid triangulation - a situation when communication with a parent is stronger than with the spouse.
* Parents should avoid giving advice to their married children unless it is sought for. If there are serious marital struggles going on, parents would be wise to recommend a marriage counselor rather than get involved. Often it is too difficult not to take a side.
* Holidays are difficult times for newly married couples. They want to be loyal to both families but have a desire to start their own traditions. Parents should not pressure the couple to come to family gatherings, but should let them know that they are always welcome. Holidays are never the same without all of the family, but both sets of parents should respect the desires and decisions of the newlywed couple.
* In-laws, particularly mother-in-laws, may expect their child's new spouse to be alot like them. This is rarely the case. Accept what diversity can do for your family.
* Dads- do manual labor with your son-in-laws. It builds character and work ethic. Bonding time!
Love you all! Have a fabulous week
I think mom and dad have those in-law qualifications COVERED.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post, Goose!
It's a great class. I noticed as I read how good Mom and Dad are already at all those in-law things. ("And like a good wine...") Get my musical allusion, C'leste?
ReplyDelete