Joy in the journey of motherhood
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Being involved in the simple parts of a child's life is one of the most important roles a parent can play, said Karen Schiessl, North Dakota's 2009 Mother of the Year state representative.
"How important it is to just do the simple things with your family," Sister Schiessl said. "You need to be there for their kids. Read them a story, have dinner with them, say prayers with them, take them to school and pick them up if you can; just be there for your kids. The time is so short."
Although life can be busy at times, Sister Schiessl said even a short time daily doing the little things can make a huge difference.
"Just a few minutes asking them how's the day been today, what did you do, did your teacher say anything," she said. "Give your kids what they need."
Sister Schiessl currently serves as the Bismarck North Dakota stake Relief Society president, while her husband, Guy, serves as bishop in the Williston Ward. Brother and Sister Schiessl, along with their two sons have lived many places in and out of the country because of Brother Shiessl's job with the Air Force. Wherever they have lived, Church service has been important.
No matter where the Schiessl family is living, Sister Schiessl tries to be a good example for her children and grandchildren.
"Our children need to have the best examples possible and it needs to come from within their own walls of their own home," she said. "I have never believed in the old adage of 'do as I say, not as I do.' Our children and our families can't learn unless we ourselves are the right example. We can't tell them not to do something if we ourselves aren't willing to do the same."
Along with doing the simple things and being a good example, Sister Scheissl said it is important to enjoy motherhood, even when times are busy or hard.
"I liked the way President Monson talked about having joy in the journey. Have joy in the journey of motherhood. Have fun and enjoy these special spirits that your Heavenly Father sent you."
This is part of a series featuring LDS women who are their states' Mother of the Year and Young Mother of the Year representatives.
