Question: My son said he doesn't want to write a journal any more because as he's getting older he's got more "bad things" or "challenges" and his days aren't always sunny. He said he doesn't want to write about things that "s*ck" and he doesn't want to remember them either. I've talked with him, but he's very stubborn. Any ideas? D
Answer: Whenever our children are asked to keep a commandment of the Lord several things must be in place for success.
1) One or both parents must be modeling the behavior in front of the child, particularly the father. Is this happening?
2) There must be a time set aside for keeping the commandment, in this case journal writing, aside from any other conflicts or distractions (friends, TV, play). For example, Sunday between meetings is a good time for journal writing, especially if all journal writers received an incentive to do so, maybe dessert for dinner.
3) A family home evening teaching this gospel principle, its purpose, and the value of journaling by leaders like Wilford Woodruff and Spencer W. Kimball can help set a pattern of Church leadership. You might have each of your children in charge of learning about which of our modern prophets kept journals and telling their story as part of this family home evening.
You might look for a local journalist. If your son wants to see our journals, he is welcome to visit. I have kept a daily journal since 1979 when President Spencer W. Kimball asked us to begin writing the events of our days and the spiritual experiences of our life. It is one of the best decisions I ever made because my life and experiences will last long past my time for it is all written down. Such a visit might impress a young person to also keep a journal.
Take care now, M
I was reading an article and came upon a quote by Spencer W. Kimball that I thought could apply to your situation with your son, and re-emphasized Sister Ricks advice. "When children go off to school or to play with their friends, parents cannot be totally sure of what they are learning. But if parents take time at home each evening to explain the gospel program to their children, it will offset the negative things they may get during the day."
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