Divorce

 

Divorce is becoming more common and widely accepted throughout the world today. A large part of this trend is due to the "no fault divorce law." This law was widely accepted by all fifty states in 1985. Once this was established it was a lot easier for a couple to get divorced, which greatly increased the divorce rate. Married couples who used to have to prove that their spouse was the "bad guy" and that there was a vital reason for divorce, now do not have anything at all to prove in order to end their marriage contract. 

Research has shown that divorce has numerous negative effects on the family as well as the community. The problems caused by divorce range from big to small in categories such as financial problems and emotional well being. Divorce is also very difficult on children. Children that are affected by divorce have lower self esteem, more physical and emotional problems, higher rates of substance abuse, lower levels of trust, and lower levels of marital commitment.

There are many resources to help families who are thinking about divorce and those who have already been affected by divorce. One of my favorite talks on this topic is by Elder Oaks. Here are a few quotes from his talked labeled "Divorce.":

"A good marriage does not require a perfect man or a perfect woman. It only requires a man and a woman committed to strive toward perfection."

"You should do all within your power to preserve your marriage."

"All who have been through divorce know the pan and need the healing power and hope that come from the Atonement."

"For most marriage problems, the remedy is not divorce but repentance."

Parenting

 

"The purpose of parenting is to raise children in such a way that they will be able to positively contribute to society, the family, and the world."- In class discussion

Parenting is a gift and a sacred calling from God that can help each one of us progress and become even more like our own Heavenly parents. Because parenting is such a great responsibility, parents must work together, as well as with the Lord, in order in go about this sacred calling in a correct manner. 

Currently I am not a parent, but I am so looking forward to the joys and blessing parenthood can bring. I cannot wait to meet the special spirits that Heavenly Father will entrust with me. More than once I have heard the saying that we will learn more from our our children then we will from our own parents. I think that is so true and I am looking forward to learning and growing alongside with my future children.  

Family Work

There are many aspects of work that can been seen within a family. Usually one parent is the "bread winner" of the family and works in order to provide a living for their family. However, it has become more and more common in today's time that both parents go out of the house and into the work force. This common trend has had an enormous effect on the family. When both mothers and fathers are our working, their kids are left with a babysitter or at a daycare. Research has shown that excessive time away from parents has negative effects on children. If this is the case, then what can be done to fix the problem? 

It is important for parents to consider the well being of both them and their children when they are making the decision on who should work, one or both of the parents. Families with dual- working parents and ones with only one working parent can take initiative within their families to spend more time with their children. Family time is important to each member of the family and can be a great way to teach children correct principles.

Families can spend time doing wholesome activities like going to the park, playing board games, and sharing stories together and they can also work together side by side. Working together as a family is one of the greatest ways to bond as a family.

"Work builds and refines character, creates beauty, and is the instrument of our service to one another and to God." - Elder Christofferson

"Work together as a family, even if it may be faster and easier to do the job ourselves. Talk with our sons and daughters as we work together.” - Elder Robert D. Hales. 

"There is no substitute for work. Building a strong family takes hard work, and part of that work is teaching our children how to work. Though some may see work as something to avoid, the gospel teaches that working for and with our families brings great blessings. God Himself calls His plan for His children 'my work and my glory' (Moses 1:39)." - lds.org