Our Divine Nature

      This week in class we discussed gender roles and the different roles that we fill within the family.  In the course of the class I recognized how the world is working and trying to dilute our divine roles within the family unit. It is interesting to me as I reflect upon my Grandparents and the roles they planed within my family. They both worked very hard on every aspect of their lives together.  Both fulfilled their divine roles. When one started to fall behind, the other would step in and lend support.  One was not inferior to the other nor thought that was 'just women's work,' or vice versa. I am of the strong opinion that this is exactly what we need today. We are living in a society where the roles of both women and men are becoming so limited to what we can and cannot do. I believe that as husband and wife we can work together on all aspects of the spectrum. We can pick up the slack where our spouse needs added help. I feel the father can and should be a nurturer to his wife as well as his children. The mother can also fill the role of the protector or provider when necessary. We are truly blessed to have the Family Proclamation. This document was inspired and must be read and referred to often, especially in this day and age. The Proclamation teaches that a man and woman are to work together as one unit and should cleave unto each other and no one else. A mans role is to preside, provide, and protect. The mothers solemn responsibility is to be a nurturer.

       Elder Maxwell gave us great advise about the proclamation. He explains; "If we will hold fast to the Church's proclamation on the family, we will see that we hold the jewels, as it were, that can enrich so many other things. Let the world go its own way on the family. It appears to be determined to do that. But we do not have that option. Our doctrines and teachings on the family are very, very powerful, and they are full of implications for all the people on this planet."

       If we know and understand the proclamation and its truths, we can share these truths with those who are not of our faith as well as strengthening those of our faith.  When we speak the truth, others will find it a comfort and draw comfort from our teachings. We should never be ashamed or afraid to share with others what we believe as it can only make a difference in the long run.