What I want my children to know

Over the course of the past few days, my mind has reflected upon several comments that I have received on the phones as I contact voters.

One woman (as you may recall) challenged my opinion on the issue and how it relates to children since I have none.

One man called me a bigot.

One woman said that they dont judge people in her household.

One woman said that I had definitely given her a lot to think about and she would reconsider her original no vote.

One woman told me that she appreciated my efforts.

As I thought about my nieces- the youngest is less than 2 years old, I thought about their future. Then my mind wandered to my own future children. And while I dont have them in my life now, they will be a part of my life in the future. It is my sacred responsibility to secure their future, now. I do this for myself, but I do it more for them.

I want my children to know that I fought for their future. No matter the cost, no matter the sacrifice, no matter the odds I was up against. I fought. And I will do it again gladly for their souls! Do not mistake that, do not forget that!

I want my children to know that in the face of affliction, persecution and name calling that I did not waver. I held true to the rod, and I protected their right to a traditional home, even though that home was no where to be seen in my life.

I want my children to know that I follow the prophet. It does not matter if I understand the decree or his vision. My faith is such that I follow where he calls because he is the mouthpiece of the Lord. And the Lord is my captain. I follow the prophet.

I want my children to know that I do judge. I judge righteously. Accepting everything does not reinforce truth. I know that there is truth and error. And I have picked my side. I do not think that marriage should be between two homosexuals. Marriage is between a man and a woman. This is a judgement call. I have that right & responsibility to make it. The Lord has asked us to judge righteously.

I want my children to know that I support civil rights. But, this issue isn't about civil rights. Its about morality. Do not be fooled. The opposition will call this battle (of which we have only begun fighting) many things. The opposition will guise it under a host of many titles and agenda's. But, be clear, this is a moral issue and the opposition has one leader, the great adversary. And his goal is to destroy families. That is the simple truth.

I want my children to know that one person, following in faith, can make a difference. I dont know the result of this election. Time will shortly tell. But, I know that as I have done my part I have had influence upon several people. These people were either on the fence or in opposition to the proposition. I was able to use the skills that the Lord has given me (my kind personality and my honest talkative manner) to help the force of good. Many people are reconsidering after our conversation. Now, children, this is not an excuse to become prideful in the work. No, I am merely making a point that as we use our energies along with the help of the Lord, we can make a difference. It is the Lord that is the recipient of the credit.

I want my children to know that I have been blessed. As I have fought and supported "so great a cause" I have been very blessed. The Lord does not forget his followers. He is the ultimate leader and will shepherd us as we choose to be a part of His flock.

I want my children to know where I stand. I stand with God. I stand with the Savior. Win or lose this skirmish, I am in it until the end. I may become bloody. I may become injured. I may have sleepless nights and long days. I may have scars on my body. I may loose friends and fellow fighters (to the opposition or because of the opposition). I may see horrible things and my heart may become troubled. But I will not yield. Never.

This is what I want my children to know. As their mother, this is where I stand. This is who I am.

Children, I am and always have been your mother. You are not with me now, but I want you to know these things. You, my dear children, can take courage. I have have taken courage. I will be your mother, standing resolute. Do not fear for the future. It may become dark. It may be filled with all kinds of confusing things. But the line is drawn. You know where to stand because I have chosen my place. Take courage my "young sons [and daughters]."

This is what I want my children to know.

This is what I want my children to know.

with faith & courage,

Shannon