Wholesome Recreation

Hiking, trips to the coast, backpacking, road trips, scuba diving,  camping, drive-in movies, Portland Saturday market, and game nights is just a short list of the things that my family has done together this summer.

D. Todd Christofferson says, "Just as honest toil gives rest its sweetness, wholesome recreation is the friend and steadying companion of work."

It seem sometimes that all this life revolves around is finishing the work week only to begin again the next Monday. The truth is, we need a break from that work. We need a time move away from the grind and to spend time with our families.

Elder Oaks states, "Remember that our Savior Jesus Christ always builds us up and never tears us down. We should apply the power of that example in the ways we use our time including our recreation and our diversions."

What better way to apply the example of Jesus Christ than to spend time with our family? The more time we spend with our family in a wholesome environment, the stronger those relationships will become.

M. Russel Ballard states, "Seeking out the best recreation can actually provide families with spiritual nourishment to overcome trials and resist temptations."

What better blessing could we ask for by simply giving up our time to have a good time with our families?

I am blessed with the time I have been able to spend with my family this summer because I know that it has given renewed strength to my children and myself as we have become closer. We have climbed mountains and descended beneath the ocean together. From sleeping on the cold ground to laughing through a movie, this summer of wholesome recreation has brought my family closer together.