Their Loving Voice

Recently, I watched a video about sleep training, which involves helping a child sleep separately from their parents so that both the child and the parents can sleep better. Not every family practices it, but for some children it can be necessary. When children learn to sleep on their own, they develop the habit of falling asleep even when Mom and Dad are not beside them. But until they become accustomed to it, the moment of separation that comes each night can be difficult—not only for the child but for the parents as well. The child fusses, hoping Mom and Dad will not leave the room. The parents watch their child cry, their hearts aching, yet they steel themselves. Before stepping out of the room, they lean close and whisper softly into the child’s ear:

“Mom and Dad are always with you. We will always protect you. Don’t be afraid. We love you.”

I was reminded of our Heavenly Parents. As we live in this spiritual refuge, separated from Father and Mother because of our sins, there are moments when we feel alone—when fear overwhelms us because we feel as though there is no one to rely on. At such times, Father and Mother speak to us in loving voices: “[Y]ou are mine. . . . you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you” (Isa 43:1–5).

Heavenly Father’s heart aches as He sees His children suffering under the heavy burden of sin. Though unseen, He lifts us up and gives us strength. And Heavenly Mother, holding back Her longing to run to Her children at once, continues even now to pray for and encourage Her sons and daughters who are weary from the storms of this world.

Within the love and care of Father and Mother, we continue to grow each day, step by step, as heavenly children on our way back to heaven. I long to be transformed into the likeness of an angel and live with Father and Mother forever. I truly want to remain close by Their side in heaven, where there is no more parting—never to be separated again.