Family Matters: For Time and All Eternity

Reflecting on my marriage with Anatolin on the morning of September 26th, 2024, I felt prompted to share the thoughts and feelings I had written in my personal journal, feeling the crisp autumn air, drifted through the open window, a comforting reminder of the season's change. In the suburbs of La Union, surrounded by the whispers of faith, my beloved Anatolin and I began a timeless journey together. Our love story, rooted in the tender soil of teenage friendship, blossomed into a marriage sanctified by our shared faith as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Standing by Anatolin's side on our wedding day in 2005 at the Manila Philippines Temple , with our families surrounding us, I felt profound gratitude for the love that had brought us together. We solemnly entered into sacred covenants with Heavenly Father and each other, committing to uphold fidelity, live in a Christlike manner, honor all gospel commitments, and fulfill th...

Can you imagine if you had the chance to share your final thoughts with your loved ones before leaving this mortal existence? Well, that's exactly what the prophet Lehi did when he sensed that his life was coming to an end. He gathered his family for one last heart-to-heart. In our early morning Seminary class, we learned about Lehi and his final moments with his loved ones. It's truly touching how he gathered his family together to share the incredible messages that Heavenly Father had revealed to him. It must have been a deeply meaningful and heartfelt experience for everyone involved. It's amazing that Lehi not only shared his personal testimony of the Messiah but also delved into important topics like liberty, obedience, the Fall of Adam and Eve, and the redemption through Jesus Christ. These are such profound and essential teachings that can bring so much understanding and joy into our lives. Here's the thing, though. Lehi's children had the freedom...

Nurturing a marriage and cultivating emotional intimacy are essential for creating a lifetime of cherished memories.  Here are some practical tools and suggestions to help you strengthen your relationship. First up, we've got effective communication . Now, this is the bedrock of a healthy relationship, friends. It's crucial to set aside some time to actively listen to your spouse and express your thoughts and emotions openly and honestly. By practicing active listening, empathy, and understanding, you can cultivate a deeper emotional bond. Next on the list is quality time . You've got to prioritize spending some good ol' quality time together. Whether it's date nights, shared hobbies, or simply enjoying each other's company - make it a priority! Oh, and here's a pro tip: put those phones and TVs away, and give each other your full attention. Trust us, it makes a world of difference. Now, let's talk emotional support . You've gotta be ther...