Brothers and sisters, Jesus has asked that we “live together in love” with “no disputations among you.” “He that hath the spirit of contention is not of me,” He warned the Nephites. Indeed, to a great degree, our relationship to Christ will be determined—or at least affected—by our relationship to each other.
Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, "The Ministry of Reconciliation", General Conference, October 2021
After 24 years of marriage, you would think I'd be pretty darn good at relationships. But there is still so much to overcome on my end, particularly my pride and ego.
After 22+ years of being with my children, you would think that I've had enough practice and am therefore pretty good at being a father. But there is still so much to learn about being a parent and letting go of my own inadequacies and not parenting as if my kids have the same inadequacies.
Notwithstanding, there is nothing I love more than my wife, my children (all 4 of them), and my granddaughter. But I know I will be judged on how I treat them. So, everyday, I want to be better.
Same with my fellow man and woman. I have no issues or qualms with anyone, but I can do better in how I treat them. I must do better.
I need to strengthen my relationship with others. I need to cherish the friendships I have. I need to be friendlier and more kind. I need to treat them as Christ would treat them.