Gentle persuasion

The foremost way of standing up for our values is to live our values and take the time to share with others how good it makes us feel to live within proper standards.

Secondly, it is important for us to remember to use gentle persuasion in our efforts to convince others that proper values will bring us the results we are looking for in our families, communities and our nations. We should attend town, county, school board and other meetings to make our values and ideals known.

However, it is important that we not make our views known in anger, hostility or with great contention in our heart. Whisper, like the Spirit does. If enough of us do that, then we will be heard. — W. Denis Nurmela, Sun City, Calif.

Parents make difference

I believe parents can make a huge difference in the lives of their children. I know mine did by giving me so much of their best efforts and time. They helped me learn what I needed to grow up "right" and gave me the security of a solid family backing me.

My parents and I always had a good relationship. We could talk about anything, and they weren't afraid of any subject or of correcting me when I needed it. They taught me of my worth, that I was a daughter of God with a royal birthright, a princess in embryo. They showed me the blessings they had received by staying true and made sure I knew what was expected by them and by my Heavenly Father. I knew they loved me dearly. I knew I could survive anything because I had my family behind me, and I had the gospel that gave me the reasons for obeying the commandments.

My parents also taught me to recognize and value good friends. They encouraged me and helped me make friends so I was able to associate with those who held similar values. My mother helped me organize parties so I was able to associate with good friends at times other than Primary and Young Women. My "Church friends" were invaluable associates because I didn't have to worry about negative situations arising. Their parents were as interested as my own. Parties were always chaperoned even if the hosting parents only drifted in with refreshments periodically. Often they came in to tell stories and introduce new games.

Ultimately, I had a testimony of the gospel and knowledge of my worth as a daughter of my Father in Heaven. I not only didn't want to let my parents down, but I knew my Heavenly Father would also be deeply hurt if I were to leave His path. — LeeAnn A. Smith, Florence, Ky.

Go to the temple

I am going through a divorce. It's been three months since my husband physically left our home. During this time I might otherwise be a wreck, but I am not.

When I first became a member of the Church, I went through my closet and cleared out all clothing that would not be compatible with temple garments. Wearing garments represents something very sacred. Since that was my goal, I started wearing modest clothing. I lived to go to the temple, never wanting to be unworthy since my life was now clean.

The temple teaches that no matter what disaster happens to us we can make it through, because we are only here for a "moment" in time.

No one can prevent me from fulfilling my mission to return to Heavenly Father as a worthy soul. This is just a test, a test to strengthen me.

Go to the temple often. Let the teachings be reinforced each and every time you go. Make it become embedded in you. Let Heavenly Father be continuously at your side. — Veronica Vandine, Rome, Ga.

Home a haven

The world's values are slipping. We must arm our families the best way we can, in the home.

We must make our homes a haven from the world. We must talk openly about these things to our children — and let them know they can talk openly to us. We must have interviews with our children.

Have family prayer morning and night — and family scripture study so the Spirit can be with them and guide them.

Though some may think family home evening isn't that important, it is. It helps children learn about the gospel from the people in whom they give their complete trust. As you have fun together and learn about Jesus together they will take your words to heart and they will become a shield to them against the dark, cold world. — Cheryl Robinson, Mission Viejo, Calif.