Raise em up good

I was looking for a good-feeling story for y.w. Something about Christmas and socks since I could buy each girl a pair of socks cheap. I could write REMEMGER on each pair so that when they put them on they would remember-remember why we are here and many other good things that would help us lead happy lives. I came across a nice little article by Pres Hinckley. It started me thinking again about the age old question of raising children. Why is it that some kids are easy to raise, easy to get along with, easy to feel the spirit while others seem to be hard, insisting on trying that which will bring unhappiness? What are the secrets? Comments would be appreciated!Pres Hinckley's article told about a honey locust tree he had planted. As he planted it he noticed how limber it was being able to be bent to and fro. He didn't bother with it for years but one day a half century after planting it he noticed it was leaning to the west, terribly misshapen and out of balance. He tried to push it upright but it would not budge. He attached pulleys to the trunk but it only slightly trembled. The tree seemed to say "You can't straighted me. It's too late. I've grown this way because of your neglect, and I will not bend."Children are like trees. When they are young, their lives can be shaped and directed, usually with ever so little effort. -Pres HinckleyTime goes so quickly when you are young parents. So many things to do. House repairs, church assignments, exercise, hobbies and work to feed the family. Looking back I wish I would have kept the big picture more infront of my face. Wish I had not put chores before spending time with those important little people in my life. I would think-"I'll do this little chore then play with the kids." The little chores would lead to more little chores and the time for playing was soon gone. Now it is gone forever.
Pres Hinckley gave 4 suggestions for young families that would teach the next generation good moral values and create good roots for a happy and healthy family.
1-Teach your children goodness. Teach them to love one another and all other people as children of our Heavenly Father. Teach them that to steal is evil, that to cheat is wrong, not to lie. Teach it by example.
2- Work together. Children need to work with their parents, to wash dishes together, to mop floors, mow lawns, paint and fix up, clean up and do a hundred other things in which they will learn that labor is the price of cleanliness, progress and prosperity.
3- Read good books together
4-Pray togetherI would add one more
5-Play togetherRemembering back-the happiest times were the times spent together. You young people cherish the time with those little kids and I believe that is what will bend them toward the sun.