GCBC - Elder Andersen

General Conference Book Club

"Children"

Elder Neil A. Andersen

Elder Andersen started his talk with some VERY powerful statements:

As we look into the eyes of a child, we see a fellow son or daughter of God who stood with us in the premortal life. It is a crowning privilege of a husband and wife who are able to bear children to provide mortal bodies for these spirit children of God. We believe in families, and we believe in children.

As I listened, I couldn't help but feel grateful that we kept this commandment to have children, and that now our children are doing the same. And I couldn't help but feel grateful that all the angst of "when and how many" is behind us! It is such a personal ("private and sacred") decision and I appreciated the repeated reminder to not judge others. I'm grateful that our challenges included wonderful children and not the lack of them. I hope I can always be suportive of those whose challenges are opposite.

Listening to this talk brought back memories of the faith it does take to have children. I love the stories he told. President Kimball's counsel (through conference talks and books - not in personal conversation!) had a huge impact in our decision making. I'm so grateful for prophets who can help us recognize and filter out the world's view and lead and guide us in the way of true happiness.

Yes, I believe in children.

Find the talk here. See what others have to say over at the GCBC here.