The Family: A Proclamation to the World
Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children. "Children are an heritage of the Lord" (Psalms 127:3). Parents have a sacred duty to rear their children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another, to observe the commandments of God and to be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.
By divine design, fathers are to preside over their families in love and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed.
This proclamation was read by President Gordon B. Hinckley as part of his message at the General Relief Society Meeting held September 23, 1995, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
I've been stressing a lot lately about my job as a mother and my possible failure in this. I think this is something that all mothers worry about but it has led me to a self-discovery, if you will. The quote above is what finally eased my concerns. It's sort of like a checklist or road map of what I should be doing for my children and, I am proud to say that I am. There is plenty of room for improvement but that will continue for the rest of my life.
I also learned some about the responsibility of my husband. It's the word preside. I just assumed that meant he was the head of the household. However, as I've been reading and listening to speakers and discussions I came across the radio show Gospel Solutions for Families. In it Sister Stevens, Sister Beck, Brother Richardson and someone else....??? I can't remember now. Anyways... they were discussing The Family: A Proclamation to the World and mentioned the fathers presiding in the homes. Most people think of it like the president of the U.S. and think they are the leaders and make all the decisions. That's not true. They said a more appropriate comparison would be to Jesus Christ and how he presides. He loves and fills any need we have. If there is a sacrifice that needs to be made, he makes it; if someone needs a blessing, he gives it; if someone needs anything then it is his job to get it for them. What an amazing job that is. I have a whole new respect for my husband now and the responsibility that he has.
So, what are your thoughts on The Family: A Proclamation to the World?
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