Simon Says

Growing up in a household of 8 children was exactly what I needed in life.  However, it may have taken a toll on my mom at times.  Being the tough and loving lady she is, she found ways to teach us how to live the laws of the gospel. 

One important lesson I remember her teaching was about obedience.  Both my mother and father taught that "Obedience is the first law of Heaven." 

To illustrate this point, one day, for Family Home Evening my mother taught us a game called Simon Says. 

I'm sure most people have at least heard of this game.  Mom would say, "Simon says touch your toes."  And we would touch our toes. 

We did everything that "Simon Said" to do.  But if she didn't say, "Simon Says", then we did not do it!  If you followed any command that wasn't given by Simon, you were out of the game. 

She explained to us that this is like following Heavenly Father.  When we listen to His commands and obey them, we are blessed.  When we listen to the commands of other sources, such as addictions, temptations, and unrighteous passions, we miss out on the blessings that our Father in Heaven has available for us. 

Listening to the Spirit takes some effort on our part.  But the rewards and blessings are great!