tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16431602443877200512024-03-13T13:27:08.793-07:00True Family ConnectionsBritt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-85387162473249003942016-06-23T22:51:00.001-07:002016-06-23T22:52:05.826-07:00TimeI know I havn't posted in months.... :( life gets in the way.... And I havn't had much to say.<br />
But I was reading through some of the notes on my phone and found this poem I wrote and I wanted to share it. It is a past me that somehow knew that I would need the words in the future.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Allotment</span><br />
When things grow quiet, still and peaceable;<br />
Our minds are called back to all the respectable<br />
moments that have brought us to this one drop of time.<br />
It pierces the mind with uneasiness and<br />
an unwelcome hole beneath the ribs.<br />
Unable to explain the passage of time with either joy or evil;<br />
Nor quickness of breath or the slow<br />
rhythmic thumping that provides time itself.<br />
A blur of movement that blinds the sights and sounds of now.<br />
It all fades as the moment slips away.<br />
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By Britt Whittington<br />
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<br />Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-47907337064242455862015-12-30T21:46:00.001-08:002015-12-30T21:46:25.586-08:00AnswersLife can be SOOOOO challenging! Some times dang near impossible. But that is not really anything new for anybody. Which begs the question, what gives me the right to whine and complain? What makes my life different from anybody elses? I am not special, and my problems are not unique, Right????<br />
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WRONG!!!!!<br />
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Everyone has their own personal concoction of problems happening everyday. AND everyone deals with each problem differently. For example.........<br />
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Lately I have come to a cross road in my own life. I am faced with deciding what I am going to do in order to help my husband and I build up our "family expansions fund." It's just a job right??? We don't plan on having me work forever. It is not a career. Not really a big deal just a little bump in the road to get over. Not even really a cross road.<br />
But for some reason it feels more like a <span style="font-size: large;">44 </span>way stop and I am smack dab in the middle trying to direct traffic. All the problems are honking at me demanding my attention and expert decision making skills. And I am just standing there shaking so hard I could start the earthquake that ends the world in flames. It is just too much for me. I just want someone to decided what to do for me. But then what if I do just let the cars do what they want and then everything goes up in flames anyway?!?!?! And then I am just squashed like the insignificant little bug that I am in a heap of twisted metal and glass!<br />
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I can not be the only one that has felt this way, I know. But even the 'eloquent"and "elaborate" story above can not truly describe the mess of thoughts and feelings I am having. Because they are unique to me. And that is exactly why no one else can avoid this atomic bomb like I can. I am the only one that can handle this specific train wreck of a life and that is why God gave it to me.<br />
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And in a twisted way isn't that a comforting though?<br />
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You are the one that God trusted all of these wonderful and awful things with. He knew that you would attend to each car with care and caution.<br />
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And even though I am shaking I am getting through it.<br />
<br />Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-58928938488450841342015-10-02T23:56:00.005-07:002015-10-03T00:03:08.415-07:00ChangeHi there! It has been a while. I haven't written for a while and its because of some changes. Reading back through some one my posts I was thinking about all of the wonderful learning opportunities I have been given. I have learned a lot about family and have had some very inspirational moments because of the courses I have taken, but my life has taken a turn. All of the sudden I feel like I don't know anything again, and I am sure it is not the last time that I will feel this way.<br />
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This last May I got married. It was beautiful, amazing, and everything I ever wanted. I didn't marry the man that I always dreamed of.... I married the man that God knew I needed and he is so much more than I ever could have asked for. He is so patience with me and so understanding; and the Lord knew that he had to be. I have been going under this amazing, but challenging transformation since I got married. All the things that I have learned about family could never prepare me completely for starting one of my own.<br />
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Somehow I lost myself. I don't know if it was before the wedding or sometime soon after, but I did. I was taking on so many new roles that I became a little numb. I wasn't sure what I liked any more or what I wanted to do with my time. I didn't like work, school, crafts, being out doors, and the list go's on and on. Just all of the sudden I found myself not finding joy in any of the little things that use to give me such happiness. But why?? I should have been so happy! I just got married!<br />
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Well this is what I have discovered.....</div>
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In life we take on many roles; son, daughter, husband, wife, aunt, uncle, niece, etc. those are things that don't change a lot, once you are a daughter you will always be a daughter, even after your parents are gone. Then you have roles that do change and that you become on and off(moms will really understand this); student, worker, friend, therapist, comforter, nurse, maid service, chef, interior decorator, detective, jailer, and I could go on and on. But somewhere in there we have to realize that no matter what role we play we have to find joy in it. This is where I got lost.<br />
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<span style="color: #ffd966;">I started to just fulfill my roles instead of letting my roles be fulfilling.</span></div>
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I stopped taking the time to just let my surrounding bring me joy. I stopped letting the people around me bring me joy, and that has hurt my relationship with some of them. Whether they see it or not, I have. And I am really sorry for that.<br />
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So, I guess my point is that only you can make your situation a bright one. You have to choose everyday to be happy, to love those that love you, and to enjoy what you have been blessed with. <br />
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<span style="color: #ffd966;">Choose right now to be happy<b> :</b>D</span> </div>
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Just a little side note for everyone, this is going to be the way I blog now. I will still share things That I have learned in classes but I what to make it more personal. The major reason for this is because this is going to be my last semester in school and so real life learning is what I am going to be majoring in. Hope that's okay!<br />
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<span style="color: #ffd966;">!!!!!!!!Thank You For Reading!!!!!!!</span></div>
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<br />Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-90518186020090163732015-04-08T13:51:00.001-07:002015-10-02T23:57:35.786-07:00The Proclamation Series: Protect the FamilyThis post focuses on the eight and ninth paragraph of <a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">The Family: A Proclamation to the World</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">.</span><br />
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<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="dominant" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">"WE WARN</span> that individuals who violate covenants of chastity, who abuse spouse or offspring, or who fail to fulfill family responsibilities will one day stand accountable before God. Further, we warn that the disintegration of the family will bring upon individuals, communities, and nations the calamities foretold by ancient and modern prophets.</div>
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This is the last of the Proclamation posts. And to wrap up I just want to invite you guys to think about what you can do to protect your family today. I invite you to pick a project that will help strengthen your family or someone else family. It can be as easy as giving your spouse a hug and letting them know how much you love and appreciate them. It can be spending more time with your kids. It can be posting to a blog. ;) What ever you choose to do take it seriously and try to really make a difference.<br />
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And just as a side note:<br />
These Proclamation post had a lot of principles from the LDS church. I am a Mormon and I do believe. You can see my testimony of the church <a href="http://truefamilyconnections.blogspot.com/p/im-mormon.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> or by clicking on the tab above called "I'm A Mormon."<br />
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Thank you guys for reading. I have a lot of fun writing and I hope that someone is getting something from my mess of words and thoughts.<br />
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Thanks again!</div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-600661588659934302015-04-08T13:16:00.001-07:002015-04-08T13:59:23.216-07:00The Proclamation Series: Happiness in Family Life This post focuses on the sixth and seventh paragraph of <a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">The Family: A Proclamation to the World</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">.</span><br />
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<span class="dominant" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">"HUSBAND AND WIFE</span> have<span style="color: #fff2cc;"> a solemn responsibility to love</span><span style="color: #333333;"> </span>and care for each other and for their children. “Children are an heritage of the Lord” (<a class="scriptureRef" href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/ot/ps/127.3?lang=eng#2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border-image-outset: initial; border-image-repeat: initial; border-image-slice: initial; border-image-source: initial; border-image-width: initial; border: 0px; color: #8aa7a8; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Psalm 127:3</a>). Parents have<span style="color: #333333;"> </span><span style="color: #fff2cc;">a sacred duty to rear their children in love </span>and righteousness, to provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to<span style="color: #333333;"> </span><span style="color: #fff2cc;">teach them to love</span><span style="color: #333333;"> </span>and serve one another, observe the commandments of God, and be law-abiding citizens wherever they live. Husbands and wives—mothers and fathers—will be held accountable before God for the discharge of these obligations.</div>
<div style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 20px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="dominant" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">THE FAMILY</span> is ordained of God. Marriage between man and woman is essential to His eternal plan. Children are entitled to birth within the bonds of matrimony, and to be reared by a father and a mother who honor marital vows with complete fidelity. Happiness in family life is most likely to be achieved when founded upon the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect,<span style="color: #fff2cc;"> love,</span><span style="color: #333333;"> </span>compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities. By divine design, fathers are to<span style="color: #333333;"> </span><span style="color: #fff2cc;">preside over their families in love </span>and righteousness and are responsible to provide the necessities of life and protection for their families. Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children. In these sacred responsibilities, fathers and mothers are obligated to help one another as equal partners. Disability, death, or other circumstances may necessitate individual adaptation. Extended families should lend support when needed."</div>
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I have already covered some of what is spoken about about in previous posts. So, for this post I want to talk about something, that I believe, every parents struggles with at least a little. And that is, one, or more, of your children making bad choices and going down wrong paths. This can be a very sensitive subject and I would never tell you what you could do for your kids or how to parent. I think each kid needs a different parenting style because no two kids are the same. But I do believe there is a universal law of parenting and I highlighted it above. That's right Love! And not just any kind of love, Unconditional Love! </div>
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I can not stress how important this is to not only children but every single one of your family members. A brother, sister, aunt, uncle, cousin, spouse, daughter, brother; ALL of them need unconditional love and they need it from YOU. It doesn't mater what a person has done they need your love and help every step of the way. This doesn't mean that you have to accept their behavior that you don't agree with, but you have to love them. I can love a baby who pukes on me when I am burping it. Does that me I love that it puked on me? No! but I love that baby no matter what. I think that we lose that unconditional love as that baby gets older and does even more things we don't love. </div>
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My parents have been a great example of unconditional love in my life. I have watched them struggle over and over with the decisions of my brothers and myself over the years. And let me tell you there have been some tough times with all three of us. But never once did I feel like they didn't love every single one of their children. They never spoke wrongly about any of us and never made us feel like we were any less their children. I remember My mother telling me a few years back that no matter what we have done we are still her babies. </div>
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But the thing that I really admire about my parents is that never once did they let their standards and beliefs slip. They never bent the rules for us. We knew where Mom and Dad stood on everything, and knew when they didn't agree with our actions. Parenting is a fine line between structure and love. </div>
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Thanks for reading! Comment below if you have anything to add or if you have questions for me! </div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-19914696302129654352015-04-08T12:51:00.000-07:002015-04-08T13:58:35.705-07:00The Proclamation Series: Law of Chastity and Sancity of LifeThis post focuses on the forth and fifth paragraph of <a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">The Family: A Proclamation to the World</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"</span><span class="dominant" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">THE FIRST COMMANDMENT</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">that God gave to Adam and Eve pertained to their potential for parenthood as husband and wife. We declare that God’s commandment for His children to multiply and replenish the earth remains in force. We further declare that God has commanded that the sacred powers of procreation are to be employed only between man and woman, lawfully wedded as husband and wife.</span><br />
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<span class="dominant" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; font-size: 16px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-transform: uppercase; vertical-align: baseline;">WE DECLARE</span> the means by which mortal life is created to be divinely appointed. We affirm the sanctity of life and of its importance in God’s eternal plan."</div>
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There is a lot that I could say about chastity, fidelity, and the sanctity of life. I could talk about teen pregnancy, abortion, cheating, and the list goes on and on. But I have decided to share a video of a speech that I gave for a class. I don't like speaking publicly but I loved my topic and it goes really well with this section of the proclamation. </div>
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So with out further a due click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dl9EETH_yk" target="_blank">HERE</a> and enjoy. </div>
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In the video I mention two different site for you to go to to learn more. Here are links to those cites!</div>
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<a href="http://overcomingpornography.org/?lang=eng" target="_blank"><span style="color: black;">Overcomingpornography.org </span></a></div>
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And</div>
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<a href="http://fightthenewdrug.org/"><span style="color: black;">fightthenewdrug.org</span></a><br />
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You can also view this <a href="https://youtu.be/NGUKH5UbhYU" target="_blank">SPEECH</a> given by a classmate about fidelity. </div>
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Thanks for reading and viewing!</div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-58437332218625573502015-04-03T15:13:00.001-07:002015-04-08T13:33:41.493-07:00The Proclamation Series: Covenants and Ordinances This post focuses on the third paragraph of <a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">The Family: A Proclamation to the World</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"IN THE PREMORTAL REALM, spirit sons and daughters knew and worshiped God as their Eternal Father and accepted His plan by which His children could obtain a physical body and gain earthly experience to progress toward perfection and ultimately realize their divine destiny as heirs of eternal life. The divine plan of happiness enables family relationships to be perpetuated beyond the grave. Sacred ordinances and covenants available in holy temples make it possible for individuals to return to the presence of God and for families to be united eternally."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">While studying this part of the proclamation one thing really stuck out in my head, marriage is ordained of God. I am only beginning to understand how amazing marriage is. I have been engaged now for about 6 months and have another month until the wedding. In that time I have learned so much about myself, my fiance, being a couple, and how my beliefs fit into it all. I could never write down everything that I have learned because there is just to much and it has only just begun. But what I can share is that God's hand is in our lives. He leads us where we need to go if we just let him in. From the way I met my fiance, to the decisions that we have made about school, it has all been directed by God. Things just worked out too perfectly to be explained any other way. Out of all the decisions that have been made and how many ways our lives could have been, we ended up exactly where we need to be. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The dynamics of being so close to another human being are amazing. I have had the opportunity, through class assignments to pick apart my relationship with my fiance, and every time I learn something new. I can see just another reason why he is the man that I am suppose to marry. I can see now how the thought of being together "until death do us part" is just not enough. I really know now why I have been waiting to go to the temple to be sealed to my spouse not just married to him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">It is amazing how as you go about life and gain knowledge and make connection how much clear everything seems. I am still so young and I am so excited to learn everything I don't yet understand. There are so many facets to the family and relationships and how that all fits into everything else. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Take some time to really sit down and think about it. Write it out! Talk to someone! It is amazing the connection you can make! And, it is amazing the peace that it can bring to your life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Thank you for reading.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If you have question please don't hesitate to ask,or if you have thoughts or something to add please do!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Also if you would like to know more or have questions about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints that need answered, I would encourage you to visit <a href="http://mormon.org/">MORMON.org</a> you can also visit the frequently asked questions page at <a href="http://www.mormon.org/faq">http://www.mormon.org/faq</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-71708802472131263912015-04-02T14:58:00.003-07:002015-04-08T13:33:51.801-07:00The Proclamation Series: Gender and Eternal IdentityThis post focuses on the second paragraph of <a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;" target="_blank">The Family: A Proclamation to the World</a><span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"ALL HUMAN BEINGS—male and female—are created in the image of God. Each is a beloved spirit son or daughter of heavenly parents, and, as such, each has a divine nature and destiny. Gender is an essential characteristic of individual premortal, mortal, and eternal identity and purpose."</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">So, I am realizing that these posts about the proclamation are very heavy in a lot of very core values and beliefs of the LDS church. This can be hard to convey to those who have never heard of some of this stuff before. I don't really know who all reads this, so, I want to make it clear that I never intend to offend anyone. I just want to share what I have been learning and some of my beliefs. Please know I am open to questions and want to help increase understanding and knowledge, nothing more. I also want to thank everyone who does read and I hope that someone out there is gaining something from what I share. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I know and believe that we are spirit sons and daughters of God. I believe that we had our genders and personalities before this life and that it will continue to be a part of who we are after this life. I really think that our gender is a part of what makes us who we are. I know that there are lot of studies that have been conducted on whether or not gender is a product of nature or a product of nurture, or in other words our environment or social influence. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I really believe that gender is in born. It is not just about the equipment that comes with each kind of gender that makes us a boy or a girl. It really think at each gender has roles. I am not trying to be sexist here at all either. There are really differences between men and women but each is so essential in life. There are the stereotypes of how men bring home the bacon and women stay at home to be house wives, but what were those stereotypes based off of? Answer? Talents and skill sets. Women are better nurtures most of the time, women pay attention to details, and enjoy things that take place in the home. Men are stronger and think more logical most of the time, they are able to put aside emotions at time when they need to. Now I know all of that sounds sexist but just because there may be some talents that women are better at then men it doesn't mean that men can't have those talents. and the same goes for women. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">People today focus so much on equality that we have let go of the idea that difference are not a bad thing. My fiance and I have tons of differences as well as similarities and they both make us a stronger couple, and I know that our differences will one day make us stronger parents. He is better at setting down the law and will make sure that our kids get punishments they deserve to teach them. I am a lot softer and want to make sure that the kid understands the situation and know that there loved. If we mesh our talents/ perspectives, and come before our kids as a united front then they will get the best of both worlds. Our similarities are strengths as well because we agree on principles that should be taught to children. And I could give many more example just like that where both similarities and differences create a positive out come.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Women especially are fighting their roles today. What is done in the home is looked down on as wasting potential and not being gratifying. WHY!?!?! How is it not gratifying to raise a child? To be the one who raised such an amazing person. To touch someones life? Is that not something that brings satisfaction? Don't you feel good when you help someone in need or teach someone a new skill? Why can't a mother feel good about helping, teaching, and raising a child then? there are people that devote their lives to helping those in need. Who is a child but someone who is in need. They need guidance, knowledge, and love. And if you raise them right they will go out and touch more peoples lives. Being a mother is the most satisfying job that a person can have in my opinion. It is a way to leave a lasting impression on the world that influences so much of how people live and function. The way a mother teaches and what she teaches is what gives so much influences on people. For good or bad. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Well thanks for reading my rant and I hope there was some insight in there. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Here are a few extra readings to continue your search for knowledge. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">-<a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2013/10/the-moral-force-of-women?lang=eng" target="_blank">The Moral Force of Women By Elder D. Todd Christofferson</a></span><br />
-<a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2012/10/brethren-we-have-work-to-do?lang=eng&query=Breathern+we+have+a+work+to+do" target="_blank">Elder D. Todd Christofferson, “Brethren We Have A Work To Do</a>"<br />
<a href="https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2006/10/let-us-be-men?lang=eng" target="_blank">-Elder D. Todd Christofferson,"Let Us Be Men”</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Thanks for reading!!!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If you have question please don't hesitate to ask,or if you have thoughts or something to add please do!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Also if you would like to know more or have questions that need answered, I would encourage you to visit <a href="http://mormon.org/">MORMON.org</a> you can also visit the frequently asked questions page <a href="http://www.mormon.org/faq">http://www.mormon.org/faq</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-39509348580112087292015-04-01T19:18:00.000-07:002015-04-03T14:50:33.791-07:00The Proclamation Series: Eternal Truths<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">This post is based on the first Paragraph of <a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation" target="_blank">The Family: AProclamation to the World</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">"WE, THE FIRST PRESIDENCY and the Council of the Twelve
Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, solemnly proclaim
that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God and that the family
is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I know that the topic of marriage now a days can cause a lot of up roar. I don't wish to argue about human rights or any other of the hot topics that come with it. If you do not agree with what I have to say and what I believe, that is your opinion. And like any of my other posts I ask that we be respectful of each other and one another views. Everyone is entitled to their own beliefs and opinion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">That being said I can continue. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I do believe that marriage is to be between a man and a woman. I firmly believe that this is the way that God appointed it to be. He intended for families to be created and set up in a certain way for the benefit of all. Children need both a mother and a father to love and care for them. This topic, among others I will state shortly, will be discussed in upcoming posts. I believe that the family is essential to Gods eternal plan. Families provide support, unconditional love, and help us reach our full potential. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I said God eternal plan; the word eternity is not one that is often used or spoken of. Then when it is used it can have different meaning. When I speak of the word eternity I mean that life does not simple stop after death. We have an unlimited amount of time ahead of us. This concept honestly blows my mind. I don't have the capacity to understand what an eternity is. I have this unlimited amount of existence ahead of me to continue to learn and progress. Honestly, I can't grasp how truly amazing that is. But I am not even doing it alone, in fact I can't do it alone. I will have my family that I have thankfully been blessed to be sealed to for eternity. I also, have an eternal companion who I get to take this whole journey with. That just puts so much more meaning into the sealing and the covenants that I am to make in a few short months. My fiance is the man that I, with God, have chosen to enter into a divine and everlasting covenant with. That is just.... wow!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Now I understand that this post was very packed full of information and vernacular used in the LDS religion. I know that some may not know what I am speaking of. If you would like to know more or have questions answered, I would encourage you to visit <a href="http://mormon.org/">MORMON.org</a> you can also visit the frequently asked questions page <a href="http://www.mormon.org/faq">http://www.mormon.org/faq</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">You are also welcome to ask me any questions that you may have and I will do my best to answer them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As always, thank you for reading!</span></div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-67159819507118154312015-03-25T21:58:00.000-07:002015-03-25T22:00:12.832-07:00New Class New InsightHey everyone!<br />
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It has been ages! Thats my fault though. Who knew that in the hustle and bustle of life you would forget to post on a blog. ;)<br />
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Any way I took a Family Foundations course this semester and have project to do something that protects or helps the family. I thought to myself, Self, I think it is time to get back on the blog and try to make a difference in someones life." I like that thought that someone out there is benefiting from something I write. So, in the next two weeks I will be posting about what I learned this semester in 6 or 7 different posts. Each will be based off of The Family, A Proclamation to the World. This is a Document put out by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, that lays out our beliefs about the family, its order, and its function.<br />
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Although this is used as a base for the lessons, I want to use it as a tool to bring out basic principles and truths that are at the base of my beliefs. I do not understand everything and wont try to tell you that I do, but I do want to share what makes sense to me. I have done my best to really question my beliefs and not follow blindly. I just want to share the answers I have found in my personal life.<br />
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If you would like I have attached a link <a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/family-proclamation" target="_blank">HERE</a> that will take you to a copy of The Family, A Proclamation to the World if you would like to read it. I will attach this link on all of the 6 posts as well as paste the section we are focusing on in that post.<br />
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As always feel free to ask questions and thanks for taking the time to read!<br />
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<br />Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-32518820146297836242014-04-11T18:44:00.002-07:002014-04-11T18:44:31.526-07:00Parenting Final PaperI have some subject that I want to go more in detail with, but here is an Overview of what I personally learned in this class. Hope you enjoy it. Let me know if you have questions or want to know more about something. Thanks!!!!<br />
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“What I Learned For
My Posterity”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->What was your parenting philosophy at the
beginning of the semester and how has it changed? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->My overall philosophy hasn't changed a whole
lot.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I think that parents are to preside over their
family just as God does over all of his children on earth. “Pattern our families after heaven.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->We are to teach with love and understanding.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The one thing that I really have changed in my
philosophy is that my parenting starts with who I am right now. It doesn't happen like the flip of a switch. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->How has your understanding and testimony of the
scriptures being the best parenting manual changed? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Using the scriptures as a parenting manual had
never crossed my mind, but now it never leaves.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Not only are the scriptures a parenting manual,
but also a student manual, a daughters manual, a friends manual, and a manual
for any other role that you might hold here on the earth. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->One of the most important things that I learned
about the scriptures (and any other text or source of information) is that you
can put on a certain lens on it and learn so much about that subject. THEN you
can put a different lens on the same information and learn a ton about another
subject. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Learning about all of that has strengthened my
testimony of the scriptures so much. I have a hard time relating the scripture
to myself, and this has helped me immensely. I am starting to understand how to learn from
my scriptures; not just read them and know the stories and the Sunday school
lessons that go with them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I am learning to apply the scriptures to my <u>daily</u>
life. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->What do you intend to do in order to be more
effective at using doctrines, principles, and applications in changing you and
your children’s behavior and character? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->To answer this question I decide to take an
outline of learning based on a talk given by Elder Kerr given at a devotional
here at BYUI.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Gain a knowledge of the principles and Doctrines
that you want to establish in your home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Develop an understanding of those principles and
doctrines by living them in your daily life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Have a belief (or an understanding in your
heart) of those principles and doctrines by evaluating what they mean to you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Take action as you begin your family. First
continue living them and then effectively teach them to your kids following
this outline. Here is where I believe
you make decisions about the application you will put in place to teach your
children as they grow. Adapt applications as children change. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Develop a wisdom of the principles and
doctrines. This is where we reflect upon what we have done and who it has made
us, our spouse, and our children. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I think you can move up and down these steps
throughout your entire life. One
principle may be easy to learn and apply in your life and in your family, while
other may be more of a struggle and a challenge. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->What were the most important lessons you learned
about your parenting DNA? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->It is okay to be your child’s friend but only
when they are old enough and mature enough to do so. You can be a friend when
they are younger but it is a different kind of friendship and a more restricted
friendship. The kid should know they can
come to you with anything and you will still love and care for them. But you
cannot put your issues on your child and share your burden with them. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Your child needs to grow and develop at their
own pace. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Your child needs to know you are physically,
mentally, and spiritually there to love them and give them what they need
always. They come first! Always!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->A home of contention is not a home of God where
the Spirit can dwell. Your child can feel when there is contention because the
spirit has left your home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->What principles from Steinberg had the most
impact on you? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Be involved in your child’s life<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->This is a subject that has really grown in
importance to me. My parents weren't really involved in my life as much as I
wish they could have been. Quality time
with your kids, where you are just with them doing whatever it is that they
want to be doing, is so crucial in understanding and loving your child.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Adapt your parenting to fit your child<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Each child is very different and needs to be
parented differently than any other child. You need to be consistent on your
principles, yes, but your applications should change and adapt to each child’s
specific needs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Help Foster your child’s independence<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->On this section I focused more on teaching your
child to be an agent. We are trying to
teach them to govern themselves, not teach them specific things they can and
cannot do. Teach them to think for
themselves and be an independent individual.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Treat your child with respect<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->This is also a huge principle for me and always
has been. Your child is a person and deserves the respect that you would give
to any other son or daughter of God. They have thoughts, feelings, emotions,
and needs; that need to be heard, taken seriously and to heart, and taken care
of. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->What principles from Kohn had the most impact on
you? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Unconditional Parenting<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->My favorite quote for this section is, “We ought
to love them... for no good reason.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->When I think about unconditional parenting I
think about the pure love of Christ. That is, understand his love for all
people, having a love for all people, having a love for Christ, and then
understand Christ love for you. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Too Much Control<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level3 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings;">§<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Controlling parents create sneaky kids. All
controlling does is get your kids to do something you want for a short period
of time when you are around. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Picture your future (or current children) and
write down some thoughts about how they will benefit from you taking this
class. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->This class has given me the opportunity to learn
how to reflect and make changes to myself and my future family.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->It has also given new meaning to learning for
me. I understand now what true learning is. This is a definite benefit for my
kids because I will be able to teach them what true learning is. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I think over all it has given me things to think
about. It has opened up aspects of parenting I had never thought of, and even
opened me up to thinking about some aspects of my life now in a new way. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->What have you changed or starting to change now
in your life to prepare you to be a more unconditional and doctrinal parent? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I have started identifying principles that I
want to teach my children. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I am trying to change certain things in my life,
so that I can be the best example I can be to my children.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I am also trying to practice unconditional love
for those people around me now. If I can love someone, who does me wrong, unconditionally
than it will be easier with my children.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->What have you learned about the importance of
learning…. real learning? How will this help you as a spouse and parent? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I have talked about this a little already in the
past questions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->I am gaining a personal testimony about real
learning. Learning has less to do with facts and more to do with opening your
mind and understanding principles and being able to take those things you learn
and apply them. It is about taking in information just for the sake of it. It
is about enjoying understanding just a fraction more of this life and thus
giving life to a whole new bank of questions that need answers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->If you are always learning and growing, through
that knowledge you will know how to be a better spouse and parent. You will be
able to be more effective in those roles. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level2 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";">o<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->You will also be able to pass those skills on to
your loved ones.<o:p></o:p></div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-288033772209274272014-04-08T16:21:00.001-07:002015-04-08T13:18:57.773-07:00Kids and TechnologyI think it is safe to say that this world that we live in is over run by technology. Every where you turn their is some kind of technological device used to entertain us or make our lives"easier." There is television, computers, phones, smart devices, blenders, microwaves, hair curlers, and straighteners. The list could go on and on. What I want to focus on today is, social media, video games/television, and our use of the internet.<br />
<br />
It is no secret that kids now spend to much time on the internet and sitting in front of the T.V. The question is why shouldn't they? What is the problem with spending their time this way? I am going to break it down into 4 sections.<br />
<br />
<b>Relationships</b><br />
I think that it is a huge concern that kids don't know how to talk to people any more. They are very good at expressing themselves on the internet or through text but become quiet clueless when it come to interacting with people face to face. I actually have a friend who always asks me to order for her at restaurant or pay for her at a store so that she doesn't have to talk to anyone. It is hard for me because I know that she is legitimately scared but I also know that I am doing no favor for her by always doing it for her. <br />
I don't remember if my teacher said it in class or it was a quote from somewhere, but I have a quote written in my notes that I love. It says: "Have we focused so much on individualizing ourselves that we no longer know how to be an us. To be together" I really think that society has lost the ability to be together. We don't know how to interact with people. It has become hard and awkward. I just have to wonder if One reason could be that when we are on our devices "talking" to people we loose sight that we are actually talking to a real human being. Even now as I type this, I know I am talking to someone, but no one specifically.<br />
<b>Self Worth</b><br />
Are our children running to the internet instead of us to fulfill their needs? Are we giving the love and affection that they need in order to feel good about themselves? Have we taught them that they are important people in our lives? If we do not meet children needs they will go else where to find acceptance and importance. And one of those places that they run is the internet. They will spend hours online drowning themselves in social media, gaming, endless seasons of television shows.<br />
This reminds me of a scripture <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/bofm/morm/8.39?lang=eng">Mormon 8:39</a><br />
Personally I want my future children to be self-sufficient and not lean on things that have "no life" to make them happy.<br />
<b>Safety Concerns</b><br />
<b>Addiction</b><br />
It is very real thing to become addicted to technology. It is a real danger that can take away from your life. It becomes an habit that you can not escape from. You feel that you need to check Facebook again for the umpteenth time that day. You think about what you are going to do on the internet later when you can't be on it. It can start to consume who you are. I have a roommate that is highly addicted to social media. She has 7 different social medias that she keeps on 7 days a week 24 hours a day. She always has her smart phone on her and can often be found on her computer and her phone at the same time. <br />
<b>Cyber Bulling </b><br />
This is a real threat that has finely been recognized in our society. Anyone can be tormented anywhere they go. Words can cut deep and last forever. Parents need to be aware of this threat, keep up on how often our kids are on the internet and talk to them about what they are seeing on the internet.<br />
<b>We Can Use Technology In Better Ways</b><br />
The last thing that I want to talk about briefly is that there are better things that we could be doing both on and off the internet. We can use the internet to uplift others and help people really think. To get them to learn and think about what they are learning. These electronics can bless our lives if we use them appropriately.<br />
<br />
This is a great video about our use of technology, there is also a link for the full talk.<br />
Things as they really are:<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CstRqAlAZf0">Video</a><br />
<a href="https://www.lds.org/ensign/2010/06/things-as-they-really-are?lang=eng">Talk</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmH4hQ9E9X8&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">HERE</a> is also a speech given by a class mate on this topic.<br />
<br />
Thanks so much for reading guys! Let me know your thoughts about what I write, about your questions, about the site, concerns, and what ever else! Bye! Have a Great Day!!!!!Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-24563492701937200232014-04-04T10:51:00.001-07:002014-04-04T10:58:19.230-07:00A Child's TempermentOkay this is going to be kinda of a blunt post. I hope it is not offensive. This post has a lot to do with some of my religious views but i am going to try to explain it with some outside view points.<br />
<br />
I firmly believe that a person was a person before this life with likes and dislikes, and the same personality they have here. People are all different and all have unique qualities that make them who they are and are present from birth. Scientifically they would say that each child has their own temperaments.<br />
<br />
Okay putting that aside I want to talk about why that even matters. You have seen or heard, or maybe even are one of those parents who tell their kids exactly what to do, how to do it, and when to do it. They are constantly trying to shape their child into exactly what they want them to be. Children are not a can of play-doh. They have their own thoughts feelings and emotions. Kids are in fact human beings that have wants, desires, and want to be heard. Your duty as a parent is to help them find that best something they can be, that already exists, hidden under that play-doh. I don't know if that is the best comparison but hopeful it makes you think a little.<br />
<br />
Yes, kids need help. They need to be taught about life and about all those wonderful things you deem note worthy. But, they need to be taught how to think and how to be the BEST THEM. They don't need to be taught to be this perfect person you made up in your dreams.<br />
<br />
I obviously have some strong feelings about this subject; I hope that you can forgive me for that. I do hope that you can take something from this. I always want to inspire you to ponder and learn about a subject, any subject. I don't want you to just take what I say at face value. Don't just accept what I say to be completely right or wrong. I want you to think about these subjects and to find your own answers and solutions. The purpose behind my posts are ALWAYS to just get people thinking about things. I just want to inspire people to learn and to a better them.<br />
<br />
And if you disagree with me I want to hear. Please! Or if you have questions or think something needs mentioned. It is always good to be open to other peoples opinion. It helps me to be educated and see the full spectrum of an issue. <br />
<br />
As always thank you for reading!!!Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-29405772607639730302014-04-04T10:13:00.001-07:002014-04-04T10:13:38.223-07:00Parenting Based on PrinciplesHey Everybody!<div>
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Sorry I haven't been blogging much. It is hard to remember to get on here and tell you guys about all the nifty stuff I am learning. However, I hope you do enjoy what I do get posted on here. I do welcome questions about anything and everything. I promise I wont base my answers purely off what I think. I like to look around and see what different people say on subject and form then form an opinion off of that. </div>
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That being said I want to talk about parenting based on Principles. This is a really interesting concept that is beginning to reshape how I think and how interact with other people. If you think about your interactions with people it is always about who did what to who. We always are interested in the what people are doing to us or doing for us. I am starting to think that this stems from being focused more on applications than on principles. I am going to try to explain this the best that I can but if nothing else try to extract some of the facts or principles from my words and ponder it yourself. </div>
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Applications are those things that you do to your kids, or those you are in a relationship with, based off of some kind of belief that you hold. This could come in many forms. In parenting it is things like taking away privileges, spanking, or time outs. ( which by the way I don't not completely agree with those applications) </div>
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A Principle can be a belief that we base those applications off of. Principles are a truth, a doctrine, or a rule that you hold to be true. Principles are what influence us to do something. </div>
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When we become more focused of applications we lose sight of the principles we base our lives on. Take for example spanking, I am not a fan of spanking. Our child does something we don't like or don't think is appropriate, so we spank them and tell them to never do that again. Here comes the problem. Does the child learn from being spanked? If they do learn something, is it just that they shouldn't do it because they don't want to be spanked? Now here is my thoughts. If you instead took the time to sit down with your child and discuss what they did, why they did it, and why you think that it wasn't appropriate; would the child learn more? Would they then understand their actions better? I think this would cause our children to better think for themselves. This would give any person a reason to stop and reflect on their actions. It would make people more aware of how they have an effect on the world around. It would make them care more for other people and cause them to firmly believe that what they did was wrong. Instead of you telling them it is wrong they would understand in their hearts and their minds that it is wrong. </div>
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I think we as a people need to stop think it terms of "what do I do to make this happen?" And think more along the lines of "what do I or the other person not understand that is making this thing happen?" I think we would be much more productive as a united people if we asked the second question and not the first. </div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-43032903480730585542014-02-27T18:16:00.000-08:002014-02-27T18:16:51.770-08:00Learning to Love LearningHi Guys,<br />
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What is learning to you? What comes to mind when you think of learning. I think of school, long classes, and longer homework assignments. I think mostly about how much time and effort it takes to learn. Most of the time when we think about learning it has a certain note of displeasure. We have been trained in a way to dislike learning because of all of the time and effort it takes to do so. We as a society get so caught up in this worlds instant gratification. If we don't know something we can just type it into a search box and in a instant have more knowledge at our finger tips than we know what to do with. We then do a short search for the most simplistic answer we can get and then our curiosity is filled and we forget all about what we searched for. I just have to raise the question did we really learn anything out of this short experience? Or, will we have to repeat the whole process when a similar question, or even the same question, arise again.<br />
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There is a much larger meaning to learning than just to learn. What is learning? Just a bunch of random answers and facts to memorize? I believe it is more than that. Learning is more about learning how to learn. It is about being able to take a question about the world around you and being able to find an answer. We are suppose exercise our minds and try to grasp concepts that we as individuals and as a world have yet to understand. There is always something new to understand. When we learn something new it should, and usually does, open up a whole new or different concept. Take for example when a child first learns to talk. They start to understand new worlds, then they learn the alphabet, then they learn to spell, and to write sentences, paragraphs, and eventually papers. Then you look at how that opens up to whole other languages and how to write and read in those languages. It is a never ending expansion of where we can go with just one small piece of information. <br />
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That is just one reason to love learning. The fact that it never ends, there is always something else out there to learn. Another reason to love learning is because all the knowledge that we gain helps us develop ourselves. The more you understand about how the world works and how people think and human tendencies; the more you will understand who you are and what you stand for. You will begin to understand what makes you who you are and understand how that effect the people around you. Which leads me to another reason to love learning. You can always take what you learn and use it to help others. every skill you obtain through learning can be used to help your fellow human beings.<br />
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One important thing to understand though is that you can't force yourself to love learning. I think it comes from a desperate desire to want to know more and to understand the things around us. A desire for learning, I feel, comes from another desire that requires knowledge.<br />
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<b>One Phrasers to Ponder On:</b><br />
<b>- </b>Failure is a learning opportunity<br />
- You have to teach your kids to learn to learn in the home because it is not taught anywhere else.<br />
- There is no such thing as a passive learner.<br />
- Knowledge = Confidence in ones abilities.<br />
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<b>LDS Perspective</b><br />
The Holy Ghost is the teacher who helps us obtain a love for learning. The Holy Ghost is a great teacher to all of those who will listen to and heed its promptings. I then have to ask: If we do not want to learn and do not look for learning opportunities, does that mean that we do not want the companionship of the Holy Ghost?<br />
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<b>Resources for this post can be found in the resources tab. Number's 1 and 2.</b><br />
These two articles do this topic more justice than I do.<br />
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Thanks everyone for taking the time to read about learning. There is a lot of information that I did not cover because it would be impossible for me to explain everything. But I hope this give you enough information that you will want to know more.<br />
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Please feel free to ask me anything. (There is a comment section below.) No question is a bad question. I want this to be a place of discussion and learning.<br />
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Thanks Again!!!!<br />
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Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-90045689672089344532014-02-24T15:20:00.001-08:002014-02-24T15:23:25.346-08:00This Blog Needs A Face LiftHey Everyone!<br />
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I have official decided not to give up on my blog just because it is not an assignment for a class!<br />
I just kind of stop posting but never stopped wondering if I would enjoy bloging more if it were on my own terms. So! This is attempt number two of trying to be a crazy bloging fool. I really like sharing what I have been learning and I have so much that I want to share with everyone. I enrolled in a parenting class this semester and it has been a blast! In the next week or two I hope to write 4 or 5 post to catch you all up on what I have learned this far. Hopeful I will be able to give you guys some better opportunities to share your thoughts and questions.<br />
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Just a little sneak peak of what the topics of the next posts will be:<br />
- Learning to Love Learning<br />
- Parenting Based on Principles<br />
- Types of Parenting<br />
- A Child'sTemperment<br />
- Rewards and Punishments<br />
- Kids and Technology<br />
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I am really excited about all of these topics and can't wait to hear what you guys think!<br />
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Also, I hope you guys like the new look of the site. If you guys are having a hard time navigating the site or something is difficult to find or read please let me know.<br />
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Thanks so much for reading!<br />
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<br />Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-46956516297412089502013-11-23T23:07:00.001-08:002013-11-23T23:07:37.267-08:00Communication Once upon a time I struggled to put my thoughts together into a coherent paragraph that others would understand and be edified by. This is that moment. In all seriousness though, I really am not sure how to describe what I have learned in this section. Which is ironic because it is about communication. I seriously have pages of notes, but it is so random it can not be organized into one or two thoughts. So I will ramble until something comes to me. <div>
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In the last post I talked a little about how important communication is. This week we talked about what kind of communication we should use. Communication is more than just the words you say. You communicate with your body movements, with your eyes, and with your tone of voice. Humans can pick up on the littlest things that can completely change the meaning of your words. For example when we use sarcasm. We say one thing but actually mean the complete opposite. It can be quite confusing and cause a lot of problems in communication. When we are speaking we need to know first of all what we are saying and then we need to be clear. It often helps to repeat back in our own words what others have said in order to fully understand. If we are right in our understand the other person will confirm it and if it is wrong they will correct us and help in our understanding. I think over all though we need to be open and involved in the conversation You have to want to come to a consensus not just a conclusion. We are not trying to win a fight, we are trying to come up to the best solution for each other and our family.</div>
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Well that is pretty short and kinda jumbled thoughts, but I hope it was a little informative. Thanks so much for reading! Questions always welcome!</div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-7264217612781649292013-11-23T17:01:00.001-08:002013-11-23T17:01:12.311-08:00CrisesA family can grow closer together or they can fall apart during a crisis.<br />
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First I want to define crisis. A crisis is a dramatic emotional or circumstantial upheaval in a person's life. It is also important to point out that a crisis calls for a change. You have to cope with what has happened, it is not just something that a person or a family has to get through. It is much bigger than just something that is stressing a family. It is very important that a family councils together as they deal with a crisis situation. One thing we talked about in class was how a families reaction completely changes the outcome and experience of the family. There was a formula we talked about, it goes like this:<br />
Actual events<br />
Both responses and resources<br />
<u> + Cognations </u><br />
Total eXperiences<br />
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My own family has had many different crises. I was thinking of a few things my family has been through and want to share an example or two to help explain. The first experience I want to talk about is the pasting of my Grandmother. This is my fathers mother. She pasted away in the year 2000. She was sick for a very long time before passing, She had been battling with cancer. I was only 8 years old when she passed so I don't remember everything, but I do remember my parents reaction. I remember that my parents sat me down individually and they explained to me what happened. I remember there were tears but that it was peaceful. My parents explained their own beliefs (which have become my own beliefs over time and study) about where grandma was now. We took each day as a family. We talked about grandma and the things we loved about her, and about memories that we had of her. I heard a lot of stories from my fathers childhood I had never heard before. The one thing I really remember is that I realized during this time how important family was. This realization has shaped a lot of who I have grown up to be. We chose, as a family, to support each other and to be happy together. I think 100% that this made us grow closer together.<br />
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The second crisis I want to talk about is something my family is currently working through. I can only give you my perspective of this situation. I can not pretend to understand my families thoughts or perspectives. When I was about 9 or 10 my older brother moved out of the house. Over the years our family has had difficulty with the decisions that he has made. He made a lot of decision that we saw as wrong, inappropriate, and contrary to our beliefs. During this time I was never really in on what all was happening. I often ease dropped on conversation to try to figure out what was going on with my own family. I understand trying to protect me but honestly I wish someone would have explained to me. My mother was very upset and depressed. my father was very quite on the subject. And my brother and I were never close enough for him to even want me to be a part of what was happening in his life. So I was left to myself and my own thoughts. I don't know if everyone just thought that it didn't effect me or that i wasn't really a part of it, but I have learned that if one thing happens to one person in a family it happens and has an effect on everyone. I also think that this principle is part of what is helping us get this figured out now. My family fell apart during this time. We tried to be together and tried to be there for each other but we just weren't. Over time we have started to heal, and honestly we still are. We are talking to each other more, and trying to understand each other. It will take a lot of time and effort, we have been dealing ( or not dealing with it at some points) for almost 12 years.<br />
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What I would say that I have really learned from this section is how important family communication is. It determines so much of your experiences. When you share your thoughts, feelings, and understanding; family grows together.<br />
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Thanks for reading. I really appreciate it. I hope that my post are helping someone some where. Heaven knows that I have learned a lot from this class. If you have any questions about anything, please ask. Even if I haven't talked about it. I would love to explore new material with your help.Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-74631366868264224692013-11-10T01:28:00.002-08:002013-11-10T01:28:37.759-08:00Marital (Physical) IntimacyAlrighty!<br />
So today's class was about marital intimacy. To open up the class we talked about how married people are the ones that report the most satisfaction out of their sexual lives. Which actually made a lot of since as we continued talking through out the class. We then talked about the differences between males and females in their responses. It was discussed that men usually are aroused much quicker than women. Men reach orgasm much faster and often are already coming out of the high point before many women even fully reach orgasm. The comment was made that guys are like a microwave and women are like an oven (or a crock-pot).<br />
We then talked about some of the challenges that couples face and then some of the opportunities that come from physical intimacy. Challenges may include:<br />
- Time<br />
This can include what I talked about above, or it can be the actual lack of time to be intimate.<br />
- Critical of each other<br />
The issue of men being done quickly came up again. Women can feel like he doesn't really care or want to be with her. It was also said that men want to be physically intimate more often which makes the woman think that he is a pig using her for her body. Both of which are untrue and can be explained.<br />
- Hurt<br />
Very similar to being Critical and thus hurting your spouses feelings.<br />
-Tired<br />
This can cause the previous two points.<br />
And all of these can cause an avoidance of intimacy at all and thus create a void in the marriage. Marital Intimacy is very important for a marriage. It creates a bond between husband and wife. It brings your spouse and you closer together.<br />
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Which brings us to the opportunities that come with physical intimacy.<br />
- Learning to work together<br />
- Learn consideration of your spouse and their needs<br />
- Become at least as concerned as they are about themselves.<br />
- Feel Loved and Supported<br />
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There is just one more thing that i want to touch on to wrap this up. I think it is really important to understand. We talked about how being physically intimate with multiple people can really mess up your ability to trust people and to be able to get close to people. Even holding hands and kissing passionately with multiple people can do this. I think you stop trusting people and getting close because when you are physical with a person you get attached to them, and then when you or they move on to another person so easily it hurts. It gives up your self worth. You are not getting the commitment and your intimate needs met. And I meant Intimate as, yes physically, but also emotional and getting the attention and respect all human beings need.<br />
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I think that is all for this post. Thanks for reading! Please ask questions!Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-2319520493407073622013-11-02T18:40:00.002-07:002013-11-02T18:42:21.075-07:00Early Marital Adjustments This week we talked about the first little part of a marriage. There are many adjustments that need to be made in the first week, month, and year of a marriage. The first day we talked about some of the problems that can occur in a marriage. We talked about two things in particular as examples of some of the challenges that can arise.<br />
1.) Shared living space<br />
Our conversation about this was really funny. We talked about how hard it can be sharing a bathroom. You have your own morning routine that you have gotten use to over the years. Throwing another person into the routine can really mess you up. You have a place for all your stuff, or you don't care where your stuff lands. this can be frustrating to the other person. We talked about how guys generally don't clean their bathroom, and how girl will hang things up all over in the bathroom. The whole point was that you have to collaborate and work together.<br />
I actually got to apply this Monday night with my roommates. We have been struggling with shared living areas. Stuff gets left all over the bathroom counter, dish pile in the sink, and one roommate would sleep on the couch at night and be there until late into the afternoon. So we decided to have a meeting so we could talk about these issues. We talked about just having respect for the other people that live in the house. It can be hard to change your habits but you can try to change those things that are upsetting to others. I think it is about dealing with somethings people do, adjusting, and being patient with other things.<br />
2.) Figure problems out together<br />
That last thought goes into the next topic well. in order to solve problems you have to communicate and work them out together. If you don't talk about issues it just make the issue worse or makes new ones. There were two really great thoughts I picked up form class. The first was the marriage is a learning process. You should be becoming better through the marriage. If you are not communicating you are not going to learn anything. Just like if you went to class and your professor doesn't say a word. You will learn very much, because you only have your own thoughts. You can do the reading and homework but you only get so much out of that. I hope that makes some sense.<br />
The second thought is "coming together and becoming one is divine, it is not natural." This probably goes better with the first though of living spaces. It is hard to become one with another person and thus not natural. It is natural for man to put forth the least amount of effort needed. We take short cuts, we do enough to keep the other person satisfied but not quite happy, and, honestly, we do just enough to get by. This isn't divine. Becoming one is divine, as I quoted. Trying your best to understand one another, talking about what is best for your family, becoming one in thoughts and actions, and both contributing to the way your family runs. <br />
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I learned a lot from this section about marriage. It's not that I didn't know that you need communication in a marriage, but now I understand better why. It isn't simply to get a task accomplished. It is more divine than that. I guess I just really loved seeing how it contribute to becoming one with your spouse and then both of you becoming one with God.Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-54198159788349121082013-10-26T22:38:00.000-07:002013-10-26T22:44:38.271-07:00Hi Everybody!<br />
This week we talked about dating and preparing for marriage!<br />
I have a ton of homework this week which is prohibiting me from writing as much as I would like to. But I will try to give a quick over view of what we talked about and hopefully will do it a little justice.<br />
We talked about love and tried to define it. There was one definition in our reading that I really like it says:<br />
"I define love thus: The will to extend one’s self for the purpose of nurturing one’s own or another's spiritual growth." - M Scott Peck<br /> Then talked about 4 different types of love.<div>
Agape- Not based on feelings. <div>
Storge- Parent to child love.<br />Eros- Romantic, sexual, and passionate.<br />Phillia- Closeness, friendly, or brotherly love.</div>
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We talked about how we really should have all of these different kinds of love for our spouses. each is important to making a marriage work. I personally would want all of these different kinds of love in my marriage. I think each has a place and a purpose. <br /></div>
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My favorite part of this week was when we talked about the parallels of dating and marriage. A real date consists of three things.<br /><div>
-Planned<br />-Paid For<br />-Paired Off<br />Those three things can be related to the three roles that a husband, according to the family: a proclamation to the world, should have.<br />-Preside<br />-Provide<br />-Protect</div>
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I don't know why I love this part of the week so much. I guess that it just proves that you are suppose to be looking for things that your date does that would roll over into marriage as a spouse. It was just really interesting to me. And I have been thinking about it a lot. It is just one of those thing I love to ponder on.I am really out of time this week. I hope that this made you think. again if you have questions, comment, thoughts, don't be afraid to comment. Thanks!<br />
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Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-3050404129441545422013-10-19T21:17:00.002-07:002013-10-19T21:17:28.137-07:00Gender Roles<div>
Hey Hey, </div>
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This week has been kinda crazy so this is just a quick little blurt about gender roles and how important they are. I wish I had more time but i just don't. I will try to post a little more about this topic sometime next week. Sorry, hope it is still interesting and insightful. </div>
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Men and women are equally important, they deserve the same rights, but they are not the same. Women have their own qualities and so do men. We are different emotionally, physically, and socially. These differences are not a bad thing at all. We do not have to be the best at absolutely everything. We are suppose to be different and those that try to make men and women equal are demeaning what it means to be a women or a man. The video that we watched for Monday's class really made me mad. Especially the part about the firefighters. They talked about how they should make tests to be a firefighter easier for women. All I could think was why in the world would you do that! If I am in a burning building and a firefighter has to pull me out, but she doesn't have the strength she needs to do it, that's a huge problem. I like that they are strict about the tests. I don't want to be left wondering if I am going to die or not in a burning building. I want to know I have the best they can offer, and the best chance of surviving. Yes give women the opportunity but if they want to so badly be like men they have to work at the same level. That was just one thing that really bothered me. </div>
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As a woman I think it is offensive that other women want to be so much like men. Why? Not that men aren't wonderful, but if you are a woman then embrace how wonderful that is. We are blessed to be able to understand people on so many levels. We are great conversationalists.We are great at all of our relationships with lots of different people. We are nurturing and loving. What is wrong with that? It doesn't make us weak or unimportant. I think that all those things are crazy important. To be able to connect with all sorts of people is such an uncomprehendable gift. </div>
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I guess my overall point is that both men and women are important. We are suppose to work together with our God given gifts to make a difference. We are equal but different, and that is not a bad thing. </div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-69241635617193065852013-10-12T17:40:00.001-07:002013-10-12T17:40:11.168-07:00Culture and Class<div class="MsoNormal">
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Ello!<o:p></o:p></div>
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This week in class we talked about social class and about
culture. We defined culture as your beliefs, art, tradition, etc. culture is
something that you are born into and is more stable or lasting throughout your life.
Class on the other hand is a social economic status. What class you are in can be determined by
many things. Some that we discussed include:<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span><!--[endif]-->Lifestyle<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span><!--[endif]-->Appearance/ Grooming<o:p></o:p></div>
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Your class and culture have everything to do with how your
family works, acts, and even shows affection. There are hardships brought on by
riches and by poverty. The change of culture from one generation to another has
a huge impact on how families communicate. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The huge thing that we talked about this week is are all
cultures equally valid? This is a really hard thing to talk about. We as humans
don’t want to offend anyone. We don’t want to say that someone’s culture is
wrong, and we shouldn’t . But does that make all of them equally right and
effective. I don’t think so. My response to this question
for my teacher was this:<o:p></o:p></div>
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“Okay so I was having issues with the word valid in this
question. So I looked up the definition. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Valid:<o:p></o:p></div>
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1.) sound; just; well-founded<o:p></o:p></div>
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2.)producing the desired result; effective: <o:p></o:p></div>
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With that definition in mind I would say that all cultures
are valid to some degree. Different cultures have different beliefs that result
in a variety of outcomes. The marriage and family Book talked about how Asian American
families focus on values like obedience and self-control; so most their
children are obedient and have self-control. So they are “producing the desired
result." But is this the correct result? Is there a correct result? This
is where personal beliefs really start to come in. For us as Latter Day Saints,
I would say, our desired result would be exaltation. We have been given
commandments and guide lines in order to achieve this goal. Is Mormon culture
then the most valid culture? My personal testimony would be an astounding yes,
but it gives you some things to ponder. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The talk on truth and tolerance by Elder Oaks (<a href="http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/-truth-and-tolerance-elder-dallin-h-oaks">http://www.mormonnewsroom.org/article/-truth-and-tolerance-elder-dallin-h-oaks</a>)
really helped me in my pondering. The need for respect of others and their
cultures was very evident throughout the talk. There is a level of understand
that we must have for each other. Everyone on this earth is trying to figure
out what is right and wrong or good and bad. We are blessed to have the truth;
we should stand up for it and need to share it. However, we still must respect
others and let them use their agency to find their way. I think one of the quotes given in the talk kind
of sums up what I am trying to say.<o:p></o:p></div>
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-8210621946451694372013-10-05T12:45:00.001-07:002013-10-05T12:45:32.980-07:00Hey hey everyone!<br />
So a little more background on myself for a second. I am in this class trying to really make up my mind if I want to make my major marriage and family relations. Honestly, after this week, the answer would be yes. I really like the idea of being a relations counselor. This week in class we talked about the different types of relationships people have, and the effect that one relationship in a family can have on the rest of the family unit. I just got really excited this week about being able to help families learn how to work with each other. any way. I am going to just type up some of my notes from this week and once again would love some feedback: questions, thoughts, judgments, arguments. I want to talk about it all! Thanks everyone!<br />
<br />
Class Notes:<br />
<u><b>Monday:</b></u><br />
Theory is an attempt to explain a happening.<br />
<u>Systems Theory-</u> Each individual in a family is not just an independent part but has a great influence on every other individual in a family unit. Each individual in a family plays his/her own role.<br />
<u>Exchange Theory-</u> Whatever I do for you, I want something of similar or greater value back.<br />
- Give/Take - Usually informal agreements<br />
-If unbalanced it doesn't work<br />
<u>Symbolic Interaction Theory-</u> Cognitive creatures (which we are) who are influenced and shaped by their interactions, and experiences with others.<br />
- All behavior has a meaning.<br />
- Meanings my not be shared and lead to confusion, frustration, disappointment, etc. (I mean one thing, they took it another way.)<br />
<u>Conflict Theory-</u> Limited resources are shared and (usually) one person is decided upon who will be in charge of these resources and decide how they are distributed.<br />
<b><u>Wednesday-</u></b><br />
- Apply Elder Packers, "if so, then...." statement to the family.<br />
- As a counselor you must become a little part of the family, no matter how small that part is, in order to influence a family.<br />
- Each family member must see their own importance and influence to the family system.<br />
- In order to truly help a family you must have a genuine love for them.<br />
- You must focus on each relationship in a family. In a family of three their are more than three relationships.<br />
- When a family comes into a session you can get a little snapshot of a family situation based on where family members sit and who they sit next to.<br />
<br />
There are three kinds of relationship boundaries in families.<br />
Think of each example of relationships as a fence between neighbors.<br />
(Lines below explanations are visual representations.)<br />
1.) Clear- Picket fence: you can converse over it but there is a boundary.<br />
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _<br />
2.) Ridged- Brick wall: tells people to keep out and there is no communication.<br />
____________<br />
3.) Defuse- Posts in the ground with nothing between them: people come and go as they please, and let themselves inside you house.<br />
. . . . . . . . . . . . .<br />
When connections and understanding happens in a ridged boundary it pokes holes in it and starts to become a clear boundary. _____ ___ _ _ ___<br />
<br />
<br />
"Heavenly Father doesn't want natural relationships he wants divine Relationships."<br />
Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1643160244387720051.post-245027026917764822013-09-28T18:33:00.001-07:002013-09-28T18:33:35.254-07:00Myths About FamilyHey!<br />
So this week we talked about a lot of different things in class. I want to tell you guys about everything that I have learned both in class and out of class, but that would be very difficult. So I have decided to talk about some of the myths or misconceptions of family and marriage. I found it very interesting how silly some of the myths are, but I will explain that a little more later. Most of the myths I am going to talk about are out of my text book for class (Marriage & Family: The Quest For Intimacy).<br />
<br />
Myths:<br />
<br />
1.) Opposites Attract<br />
Everyone has heard this old cliche' before. However, I thought it was interesting that they called this a myth. I always thought that there was some kind of truth behind this statement, but according to the book this is very untrue. My text states, "... the more alike you are, the better your chances of having a lasting and satisfying relationship." I just thought this was really interesting. After stopping and thinking about it more, it really doesn't make sense that you would be attracted to your opposite.<br />
Take me for an example, I am a very responsible and realistic person. I am a firm believer in having rules and boundaries. So it wouldn't make a whole lot of sense that I would Marry someone who would go out and do whatever he wanted and not think about the consequences. Or someone that would allow our children to do something wrong and get away with it, not redirect them and teach them why it was wrong.<br />
I just had a thought though. Personally I would want to marry someone that would support these ideals, yes, but that would maybe be a little more relaxed or laid back. I don't want to be these supper uptight parents either. I don't think I will be uptight, but I am, as I said, a firm believer in boundaries. So if I married someone who was like me our kids would become these crazy, monk introverts. Sometimes I just need someone to tell me to take a chill pill.<br />
Wow, now I am not sure if I think this is a myth or not. I would actually appreciate if you guys would comment and tell me your thoughts. <br />
<br />
2.) Happily Married People Don't Have Conflict<br />
This myth actually made me laugh when I read it. Do some people get married and think that everything will be perfect? That just seems so ridiculous to me. Of course you are going to have problems and disagreement. I like what the book said though. It states, "...not only is conflict normal, but when it is handled properly, it strengthens rather than threatens the marriage." Couples are going to disagree it is inevitable, but it can make you grow closer with your spouse. If you come at an issue with an open mind and work it out as a team and not as two apposing sides. We are meant to learn and grow together as individuals. If that makes sense.<br />
<br />
Okay well this post has turned out a lot different than I planed. I was going to talk about 5 myths briefly and kind of got caught up in the first one. So let me just touch on my thoughts about myths in general. , Most of these Myths seem really silly to us, but they are falsehoods that people fall into. I would think that this stuff would be common sense. However, when people hear things over and over again they start to stick. It is like the first myth that opposites attract, do they or don't they? It has confused me severely this evening. <br />
<br />
Here are some of the other myths I wanted to talk about but don't have time for.<br />
3.) Having Children Increases Marital Satisfaction<br />
4.) A Good Sex Life Is The Best Predictor of Marital Satisfaction<br />
5.) People Marry Solely Out of Love<br />
<br />
If you have Question PLEASE ask. I want to learn with you guys!Britt Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15485571259377184769noreply@blogger.com0