The Westchester Young Women are Excellent

We had our Stake Young Women in Excellence Program on Saturday.  It is a night where we celebrate all the talents and accomplishments of the LDS young women, ages 12-18, in our church "Stake" which is a collection of church units (wards) from White Plains to the South Bronx.  It was a fantastic evening.  We heard two fantastic talks from young women about how the Personal Progress program helps them draw closer to Christ and prepare for temple marriage.  Victoria Boss played an amazing medley on the harp, we had another musical number by the New Rochelle ward, and Jenny Lara from the Olmstead 1st ward in the Bronx conducted like a pro.    Each ward displayed different things their young women had been working on throughout the year.  The theme of the evening was "Pointed toward the Temple." 
  

The media would so often have us believe that our youth are destined for drinking, drug use, pre-marital sex.  I just read an article today on the Washington Post Reader that the problem with American parents is that we aren't accepting enough of our teens sexuality.  It was so refreshing to be surrounded by this incredible group of teens, who are truly committed to living the Young Women Values of Faith, Divine Nature, Individual Worth, Knowledge, Choice and Accountability, Good Works, Integrity and Virtue.  They radiate goodness and light.  They sacrifice so much to attend early morning seminary (going to a scripture study class at 6:00am) , avoid friends and parties that are not in line with their values, serve others, complete over 100 hours of goals, experiences, and projects to earn their Young Womanhood Recognition awards.  I don't think the problem is we aren't accepting enough, that we are too strict or unrealistic in our expectations.  Perhaps our problem is we are too accepting, we do not demand enough from this exceptional generation of youth.

Yes, making choices to wait to have sex till marriage, to abstain from harmful substances, to dress modestly, to be honest, these are tough decisions.  But the young women I interact with everyday consistently prove that living this way is not only possible, it is desirable!!  It brings true happiness, peace, and self-confidence.  It is indeed "Living after the manner of happiness."  This is what I want for my children, no less than a full measure of joy.  I'm so grateful for the opportunity to be involved with the youth.  If we set the bar high, these kids will rise to that bar. 

Just a couple of notes on baby Philo.  He has gone on a bit of a sleep strike this past week.  He suddenly hates his car seat as well.  He now realizes that when he goes to sleep or gets stuck in the back of the car, it is not nearly as fun as being the center of attention.  He had is 3 month appt and now weighs 15lbs and 13 ounces and is 25and 1/2 inches long.  Mr. 95% we like to call him.  His whole life has been a growth spurt.  He keeps trying to roll over but has so much weight to heft, he hasn't quite mastered it yet.  He does love the baby bjorn facing OUT.  He is always exploring and loves new adventures.  Well, as long as they don't involve mobs of strangers trying to hold him and squeeze him.  The sure way to get a smile is to speak to him in Spanish.  Works like a charm.  We love our little turkey!