What do members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints believe?
Christ and family are the core of the gospel message for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Mormons believe that it is through the sacrifice and atonement of Jesus Christ that families can live together. Forever.
So I didn't have to look far to find a family to illustrate that belief -- I didn't even have to leave my computer room.
Sunday, I came across a friend's Facebook status update that touched on both. With her permission, I happily take second seat to Amber Dahle and her own words:
"Some days you awake realizing how essential love is to survival. I'm coming up on the two-year mark for my divorce in another week or so, but the reflections I've been having aren't on the loss anymore -- they are on the deepened love I have for my children.
"I had an amazing day with those three kiddos. They are light, laughter and joy.
"It took me a long time to work through the deep depression I went through the past six or so years. I'm glad to be passed it. One year now, and it feels good to cherish every moment your feet hit the carpet in the mornings.
"Lately, I've been mulling over those days where I didn't think I was worthy of even being a mom to those glorious little people. My worth, my value... all of it was in question, and I truly believed they would be better off in this life without me.
"But what a difference a year makes--and trust in God! Today, as I interacted with my precious children, I peered into each of them as they told me jokes, teased me, turned up the radio in the car and belted out into song with me, told me they loved me (just because), helped me with laundry, put their hands on my face, let their fingers slip through my hair in the most affectionate way...
"All of those things, those simple, simple things in life, are about living and loving and creating eternal relationships that will last forever. Nothing is more important that providing emotional safety for my kids, an environment that is patient, full of love, sacrifice, loyalty, and forgiveness.
"This life is about marching on, even through the hard times. I'm so blessed to have sat with my children today and talked about falling down in life and getting up no matter how many times you've tripped.
"We talked about never giving up, and triumphing over the most difficult circumstances. Endure to the end, there is love and light there. I am grateful for direction, a pathway. I'm grateful to have passion back in my life, determination and gratitude.
"I'm so incredibly thankful for my three children, whose spirits teach me something new about living each day. We had a special day and yet it was so ordinary. That is what joy is, no? I think I've found it again... my heart is full."
Amber's thoughts echo a message by Elder Robert D. Hales and another by other members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Thanks to them all for their insight and spirit.
