Wednesday, December 7

Divorce

I know the topic is divorce, but in class we discussed things in class that were more important to me.

Respect
Cooperation
Responsibility = Ability to Respond

You need to be more responsible? Actually means you need to do more of what I say.

Courage = standing up against fear when we help encourage someone we strengthen our own heart.

In a family and in a relationship you are going to need to stand up for your values and family.

Parenting

This is my topic.  I have been studying this topic for a long time.  I have learned that I can study it as much as I want, but the true test of parenting will be when I have children.

I hope and plan to be an authoritative parent. Trust in the Lord, and work with my spouse to teach our children the doctrine and principles of the Lord that they may learn to trust in Him and govern themselves.

"To you who are parents, I say, show love to your children. You know you love them, but make certain they know it as well.  They are so precious.  Let them know.  Call upon Heavenly Father for help as you care for their needs each day as you deal with challenges which inevitably come with parenthood. You need more than your own wisdom in rearing them."

To me this means that I need to rely on the Lord in all things, it won't be easy but it will be worth it.

Fatherhood

Fathers have a crucial role in the family to provide, preside, and protect. I've learned that I see things in my own home that I miss and want to change. I can't change the past, but I can create the future.


In my own future family I envision taking an active role to support my spouse the be a positive and involved in the lives of my children.  Here are the ideas I’ve come up with:

Family Counsel - I plan to have weekly family counsel that is a positive atmosphere.  Each family member will be able to express their needs to Mom and Dad.  Each family member will also be able to share their expectations of each family member. 

Husband&Wife - I think in order to be good parents, you have to be a good couple. You need to take time away from the kids and to be husband-and-wife.  When you feel complete and happy in your relationship you provide stability for your family. With this stability you will be more willing to take an active role in your kids life.  

Time - Dad, take the time to be intentional with your kids. It’s not about quantity time, it’s about quality time.  Know your kids and their interests.  You can be a good parent, by knowing what your kids like to do and they will love you more for wanting to get to know them better.  

Physical Affection - I find that there is no such thing as too much physical affection, there is such thing as material affection.  Fathers, tell your kids you love them, show you love them. Shower them with hugs and kisses and they will love you for it. 

These are areas in my home that I want to succeed in. 

Communication

I have learned that communication is essential to having successful relationships, and especially in a marriage.  A marriage is between you, your spouse and the Lord. Within this marriage both spouses have to be open and direct, in order to be in congruence with the Lord's will.  In a relationship there are going to be hard things you have to tak about. You HAVE to counsel with your spouse everyday!
I counseled with my friend who has been married for four months. She said, "If you don't have good communication you are going to build up walls. The other person cannot read your mind. It's one of those things where you have to straight up share your feelings in a non-critical defensive way. Let your spouse love you, and let them understand your feelings."  From this lesson I learned that you need to learn to communicate, you will learn to grow closer.