Should I Start a Family?

                I think it is kind of hard to overstate the importance that a father has in his kids’ lives. If we look in the scriptures, fathers were essential even from the very beginning. Throughout time society’s view of a father has changed, but God’s plan and expectations for a father has always been the same. In class this week we talked quite a bit about fathers, as well as some of the blessings we see in our lives of having families. Today I am going to talk about the role of fathers, as well as some of these blessings.

                In the proclamation to the family, it talks about how a father’s main role is to provide for his family. When some people hear this, they strictly think about financially. This is definitely not the case. Yes he should provide for his family in that way, but he should also provide emotionally, and spiritually for his family as well. He should take his responsibility of a patriarch very seriously. He should teach his kids the importance the basics of the gospel, as well as help them to develop testimonies for themselves. He needs to work very hard with his wife to instill these teachings in his kids’ lives.

                Another important role that a father has is one of a protector. Again, this is not just from physical danger, but from emotional and spiritual danger as well. He should teach his kids to rely on the spirit to guide them from danger, as well as to stay away from things that will harm them spiritually. They need to establish a feeling of safety and comfort in the home. As we know, the home is one of the most sacred places on the earth. It should be a refuge from the world where a family can come home and feel safe.

                A lot of people question if they should have a family or not. Unfortunately in today’s society having kids gets put on the backburner. There are different things that take priority over having kids. Some people are more concerned with their careers, traveling the world, or just enjoying being non-parents. Although these things can be good in moderation, we should never allow them to stop us from having families altogether. Families are an amazing blessing our Father in Heaven has given to us, and we need to take advantage of this amazing blessing.

                There are countless blessings to having a family.  A big one that we hear about a lot is joy. Having people surround you that you love that much is truly a miracle. Knowing that no matter what you do or go through they will be there for you. Another joy of having a family and kids is the opportunity to teach them the gospel. My mission was the happiest time of my life so far because I was able to show others the miracle of the gospel. Imagine the joy of being able to share these truths with your own kids!

                I was raised in a family without my biological father. He was a part of my life, but wasn’t there 24-7. I was lucky enough to have my grandfather step up and help raise me. He was the true definition of what a patriarch should be. He taught me to love God, and to love myself. Having seen this example inspired me to be a great father to my own kids. I can’t imagine what it would have been like if I had been raised without any father figure in my life, and I don’t want my kids to have to find out what that is like. I am going to do everything in my power to be the absolute best father to my kids possible.