In October of 2005, Sister Bonnie D. Parkin, then the R.S. General President, gave a talk entitled "Sweet Moments". In this talk she told a story to illustrate the importance of being a mother.
"Sometimes that love comes in unexpected ways. Kristen was finishing a graduate degree and had recently given birth to her second child. She felt the other graduates had accomplished so much more and was reluctant to attend the graduation dinner. Her fears were confirmed when, at the dinner, the students were asked to list their professional accomplishments. Kristen recalled: 'I suddenly felt embarrassed and ashamed. I had nothing to call myself, no lofty position, no impressive job title.' To make matters worse, the professor read the lists as he presented a diploma to each student. The woman ahead of Kristen had many accomplishments: she already had a PhD, was receiving a second master’s degree, and she’d even been a mayor! The woman received grand applause.
"Then it was Kristen’s turn. She handed the professor her blank sheet, trying to hold back the tears. The professor had been one of her teachers and had praised her performance. He looked at her blank paper. Without missing a beat he announced, 'Kristen holds the most critical role in all of society.' He was quiet for a few seconds, then declared in a powerful voice, 'She is the mother of her children.' Instead of a few courteous claps, people rose to their feet. There was just one standing ovation that night; it was for the mother in the room.
"Mothers, you are instruments in God’s hands, with a divine responsibility to teach and nurture your children. Little ones so need your kind and loving hand. As you put them first, He will direct you how to best serve them."
Motherhood is not an easy job. It is often unrecognized by mortals, but our Father in heaven knows our efforts and has not forgotten us. He will guide us as we seek to teach his children in righteousness and there is no better thing we can do on this earth.
