Garden of motherhood
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According to Mary Beth Bradley Scow, the 2009 Nevada Mother of the Year Representative, motherhood is similar to raising a garden. In the garden of her family, she considers her children to be the flowers.
"Without proper nutrients, plants wither from lack of food or water. Mothering is the same. High expectations, teaching and training, loving, nurturing and correction are all necessary for the seeds to mature into a productive adult."
Sister Scow, a member of the Valle Verde Ward, Henderson Nevada Green Valley Stake, has had many chances to develop a green thumb in the mothering garden, as she has nine children and 21 grandchildren.
Life can often get busy for the Scow family. In order to keep weeds out of the garden, Sister Scow feels it is critical to spend time with her children.
"Time and nurturing are so very essential. Day-to-day, (children) feel secure because they know you are there."
Sister Scow began investigating the Church after graduating from high school. She began studying at BYU and was baptized soon after at the age of 19. At BYU she met Steven Scow, and the two were married July 20, 1973.
Growing up without the gospel in her home, Sister Scow has a special appreciation for how gospel principles can aid in motherhood.
"I can't imagine doing it without the help and support of the gospel."
Sister Scow credits her husband for his help in raising their family. He has always shown love and support to her and toward their children, she said. Their children have always felt comfortable talking with their dad and asking him questions, she said.
Just as it is essential to supplement a garden with its proper nutrients, she noted, it is essential to nourish the garden of a family with time and an effort to live gospel principles together.
"Almost every ill in society comes from the breakup of the family. Make it a point to do things together. Pray together, read together and do family activities often."
