Why We Do What We Do

The call to be a self-reliant people is not a new concept.  In fact, President Brigham Young encouraged the saints to be able to be self- reliant. "He wanted them to be safe from physical harm, and he also wanted them to keep themselves safe from worldly influences that could harm their faith and their testimonies.  He wanted them to be independent from worldly influences, both temporally and spiritually."  (Daughters in My Kingdom pg. 51).

He encouraged the sisters to sew so that they could be fashionable independent of outside influence.  (That would sure make it easier to stay modest in some aspects today.)  I keep telling my mother that she needs to stay mentally with it until my girls have gone to all of their school dances and have gotten married so that she can make them modest outfits.  I definitely didn't get her talent in sewing, although I keep plodding along so that I'll be able to do a decent job if required.  (When I get into another project, I'll let anyone who is interested in learning know and they can come join me to learn.  Or if you are doing a project and want to invite someone to learn that would be amazing!  Think of the possibilities or teaching others!)

President Brigham Young also counseled the women to store up a little grain and flour.  They taught "Think what it would be to hear your little one cry for bread" (pg. 53).  I can't imagine what a heart breaking thing that would be.

After WWI and as the world went into the great depression, that is when the biggest push began for self reliance, food storage, and the church welfare system was put into place 1936.  President Heber J Grant stated "Our primary purpose, was to set up, in so far as it might be possible a system under which the curse of idelness would be done away with, the evils of a dole abolished, and independence, industry, thrift and self respect be once more established amongst our people.  The aim of the church is to help the people to help themselves.  Work is to be reenthroned as the ruling principle of the lives of our Church membership" (pg 72).

President Thomas S. Monson has stated" Remember, church assistance is designed to help people help themselves.  The rehabilitation of the individual and the family, aided by the priesthood quorum and Relief Society.  We are attempting to develop independence, not dependence." (pg 73).

Whew!  It is so much information, but it is good stuff!  We have come so far as a church, and we are able to do so much!  But, we as individuals must still do our part!  Did you know that if there was a crisis and no food available, the church could only feed 4% of the members of the church with the reserves that they have (And they have A LOT!).  So, don't wait to see if the church will feed you in times of need.  Set something aside today!  More on that to come!