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Although the value of families has always been crucial to the doctrine of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, now more than ever the family is attacked and belittled by society. The Family: A Proclamation to the World states, “The family is central to the Creator’s plan for the eternal destiny of His children.” United families bring joy and mold each family member to become what God wants them to be. Respected parents can teach their children values and skills that will shape their lives forever. Yet even when the importance of family is understood, there is always room for improvement in family relationships.
When creating a successful family, wholesome recreational activity is often a forgotten principle. Too often families get so caught up in daily work and mundane tasks that spending quality time together in wholesome activity can be overlooked or postponed. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf said, “We would do well to slow down a little… lift up our eyes, and truly see the things that matter most.1” Wholesome recreational activities provide us with the opportunity to do just that: slow down and gain an eternal perspective. Realize family is what matters most, and enjoy the current stage of life that too often slips by too quickly.
Although family activities may include big family vacations, don’t overlook the less monumental activities that unite families. A bike ride through the park may be just what a struggling teenager needs to destress after a week of tests. A hike in the mountains could provide the perfect opportunity to talk to a child about the dangers of media. And a day trip to the beach could remind parents just how much joy their toddler brings them. These small enriching activities play a huge role in shaping families.
Although planning, carrying out and recalling activities bring immediate joy, the happiness we feel is more than that. In 3 John 1:4, we read, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” In a world of declining values and crumbling morals, parents worldwide hope and pray to teach their children to heed their counsel rather than the media’s. Taking time to strengthen relationships puts parents in a position to discuss standards and values they hope a child will embrace.
Wholesome recreational activity can strengthen relationships and shouldn’t be overlooked when establishing a successful family, dealing with adversity and gaining an eternal perspective of what matters most.