KNOWLEDGE

"Seek learning, even by study and also by faith (D&C 88:118)."

As a mother I often remind my children how important their studies are.  I offer praise when my children have shown excellence in their studies.  I have also shown disappointment when they have performed below their abilities.  Both secular knowledge and spiritual knowledge are important and necessary for us to be successful in this life.

Why do we need to gain knowledge? Why do we need to understand?  How can we apply what we have learned to our present and future homes and family life?

We are all blessed with gifts and talents.  I don't think any of them were by accident.  In the past I had opportunity to catalogue the gifts and talents that I was born with and those that have developed over the years.  I have seen how I have improved in some and how I have lost skill in others.  Part of developing those talents is to use them.  I know that my ability to play the piano has grown because I have practiced and I have accepted callings in the church that require my skills.  I attribute this development to Heavenly Father's tender blessings to a much loved daughter.

While growing up in the church and participating in the Young Women's program I learned to love the 13th Article of Faith and have strived to develop the talents and skills that have been given to me in such a way that they reflect that part which is good and wholesome.

When I was the Young Women's President I shared my passion for that which was good.  And again, when I became the Activity Day leader for the Valent age girls.

There are so many good things in this world to learn:

• Learn how to organize, clean and maintain a home.
• Prepare for higher education and obtain marketable skills by learning about college or trade school entrance requirements.
• Consider what you can do to be more physically fit.  Improve your health by developing and implementing a regular fitness program and learning to cook and eat food that is part of a healthful diet.
• Learn about the proper care of clothing.
• Learn skills in first aid, safety, sanitation and survival.
• Memorize a couple of your favorite hymns.
• Learn the correct conducting pattern to hymns.
• Select a gospel principle you would like to understand better.  Read scriptures and conference talks that relate to that principle.
• Memorize the 13th Article of Faith and then visit a museum or exhibit or attend a performance that involves dance, music, speech or drama.  Evaluate by using the 13th article of faith as a guide.

Have fun and keep on learning!  :)