What Does Family Mean To You?

 "We 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."

This is a quote from The Family A Proclamation To The World; in this proclamation, given by The First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we are taught the importance and purposes of having families in this life. 

Have you ever wondered to yourself "Where did I come from? Why am I here? or Where am I going after this life?" Many people will ponder this question throughout their lifetime. It can be challenging to understand completely all of these questions unless we spend time studying and seeking for the answers. 

Today I wanted to share my experience on how I came to know of these things. 

I am the second oldest of 5 children. I have three brothers and one younger sister. We grew up with a mom and dad who loved us and wanted what was best for us. Of course, our family was far from perfect; but I don't believe that there is such a thing as a perfect family. All families have flaws, we will all fight and argue; but you still love each other in a way that you can't explain. 

My parents raised me and my siblings in a religious household. We belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Within this religion we learn a lot about God, Jesus Christ, and our purpose here on this earth. We like to call this the Plan of Happiness. We believe that we were put on this earth to gain a body and to become like our Heavenly Father. We do this by someday getting married and raising a family of our own. 

How amazing is it that we have a family here on earth to love us and help us to grow? This plan has always brought peace to my heart and soul, that is how I know it is true. 

Here is a picture of my family. They are each a blessing in my life and I don't know where I would be without them. 

I believe that families truly are central to our Heavenly Father's plan. 

Something that sets us apart from other religions is the fact that we believe that our families can be together for eternity. Who wouldn't want that? How lonely would it be if after you died, that was it? You were never able to see them again. I know that God is loving, kind and merciful. He truly wants us to be happy for eternity; and for this reason, he made it possible for us to be with Him and our family throughout time and all eternity. 

There are many controversial topics these days in regards to marriage and family. If you noticed, in the quote that I shared at the beginning it states that marriage between a man and a woman is ordained of God. Why not a man and a man? Why not a woman and a woman?

I know that we were put on this earth for a reason. A man and a woman are able to procreate and have children together, where a couple of the same sex are not able to do so. Without that, the human race would never last. I am so grateful for this knowledge and the ability to have a family of my own all because my mother and father chose to follow the council of the Lord. 

I want to be clear that God loves ALL his children, and expects us to do the same. 

If you have questions about this topic, I would suggest you to search it out yourself and find what answers feel right to you.