no neighbor is closer than one's spouse

I have a funny story to tell about Sister Dalton. A few years ago, my daughter Emily and I attended Women's Conference at BYU. Emily and I waited until the lunch crowd was gone to buy our salads at the Marriot Center. As we were leaving the building, Sister Dalton walked in the same door. I didn't notice who she was but instead told her how lovely her suit looked. If you know me at all, you know I have this thing about beautiful, feminine women's clothing.  As we continued down the hill, it dawned on me who I had just spoken to so familiarly. Now every time I see her, I hear my words echo in my mind. "Oh, what a lovely suit." Even middle aged grandmas get embarrassed.

This was a hard one to think and write about. The family is under attack from every possible direction. The roles and dignity of men and women are being destroyed. Men are made out to be overbearing buffoons, while women are encouraged to be course and 'assertive.' Children are expected to be mouthy and rude. Everyone is simply too casual. If we could understand the true nature of both men and women and how that contributes to the raising of well-adjusted children, we would leave off our poor behavior and listen to the words of General Authorities.

I have lovely granddaughters and understand what sort of world this is. Neither of my boys is married, making it obvious that these five beautiful girls belong to my daughters. I can't exactly instruct my sons-in-law, but I do pray that they paid attention during conference and read the talk later.

Luckily, my sons see and saw their father treating me like a queen. He pitches in, when help is needed, opens my doors, provides very well, and tries to be always positive. Switching the words to mothers and sons is a good idea, too. Spouses ought to be loyal to one another and use this loyalty to demonstrate just what a healthy marriage is supposed to be. After all loving one's neighbor is the second greatest commandment. No neighbor is closer than one's spouse.