Learning and Language of the Father

So I'm about a month behind in my little spotlights from the summer institute class about the teachings of The Book of Mormon on the family, but I still want to share a few thoughts from those lessons.

In the well-read first verse of Nephi we find the phrase "I was taught somewhat in all the learning of my father..." and the second verse clarifies a little stating that it, "consists of the learning of the Jews and the language of the Egyptians." And later on, in the first chapter of Mosiah, King Benjamin emphasizes the same idea, "And he caused that they should be taught in all the language of his fathers, that thereby they might become men of understanding...for he having been taught in the language of the Egyptians therefore he could read these engravings, and teach them to his children, that thereby they could teach them to their children, and so fulfilling the commandments of God, even down to this present time."

We could take that literally and talk about what the actual learning and language of the fathers might be. A cultural learning including the law of Moses, an understanding of their relationship with God, the blessings associated with the Abrahamic covenant, etc. Perhaps a dialect found among the Hebrews that reflected the Egyptian influence. Some interesting insights can definitely be found in that avenue of study.

However, the interpretation that I found in this study of those verses seemed to point more towards a spiritual language taught and learned within the family relationships. Is it not within the family that we first learn the languages of love and the language of the Spirit? As we observe and then emulate our parents, we begin to take note of how the Spirit is manifest, felt, and understood uniquely for each individual--indeed a confusing language for a beginner. However, as we watch how others hear and use the languages of the Spirit, we can begin to understand how the Lord speaks to us.  Similarly, within our closest family relationships we have the privilege to learn how to express love through a myriad of methods such as service, words, time, and affection.

We could also talk about the language of prayer and the learning of the scriptures that is nurtured in the family that are truly how we communicate with our Father in Heaven. Are we practicing these languages within our own families? Just like learning any new language it requires work and dedication to master, but the rewards will be infinitely sweeter as we use it to improve our relationships. Maybe that will be through recognizing spiritual promptings or understanding how a sibling needs to feel loved. Whatever the practical application of this may look like for our individual families, it is my testimony that in so doing we will become "men [and women] of understanding" and more fully "fulfill the commandments of God."

Trying

Somehow I got all mixed up- trying to get love for doing instead of being and feeling ashamed of being instead of just guilty for (not) doing, And somewhere I started to define strength as not being weak, not being scared. But I think the Lord has a better perspective on true strength- it includes having weaknesses and fears and not letting them win; it includes choosing faith instead of doubt. Part true strength is letting go of control instead of holding on. Strength is not measured by individual courage or valor alone, but also by the awareness that help is needed...constantly.

This past month has been challenging to say the least. Thanks to several tender mercies, some great friends, and a complete breakdown, I realized I was running on fumes and neglecting to take care of myself. So I'm on the road to fixing that. I have to give myself permission to simplify, to take care of me, and to fail in my quest for success. Most of the pressure was internal to do everything I was interested in all at once and do it well.

In April conference, a talk entitled "Latter-day Saints Keep On Trying" caught my attention. I couldn't help but ask myself what it is that we are supposed to keep trying to do or be. We keep trying to develop faith, the repent, to be charitable, to keep covenants, to recognize the Spirit... basically to live the gospel. We keep trying to become more Christlike, to forgive, be humble and patient, and to love. President Thomas S. Monson has taught, “One of God’s greatest gifts to us is the joy of trying again, for no failure ever need be final." Perhaps failure is just success that is not yet complete and trying is the connection between the two--just like trusting Heavenly Father connects weakness to strength. Elder Renlund went on to say, "God’s desire that Latter-day Saints keep on trying also extends beyond overcoming sin. Whether we suffer because of troubled relationships ( um, yes), economic challenges (check), or illnesses (amen) or as a consequence of someone else’s sins (so true), the Savior’s infinite Atonement can heal." So here's to the beautiful heartbreak that is trying and failing and trying again and falling short and trying yet again and again--and realizing that He's been carrying me the whole time.