(“I Think When I Read That Sweet Story,” Children’s Songbook, 56).
"One of the greatest needs in the world today is intelligent, conscientious motherhood. …
"Motherhood
is the greatest potential influence either for good or ill in human
life. The mother’s image is the first that stamps itself on the
unwritten page of the young child’s mind. It is her caress that first
awakens a sense of security; her kiss the first realization of
affection; her sympathy and tenderness the first assurance that there is
love in the world.
"The
noblest calling in the world is motherhood. True motherhood is the most
beautiful of all arts, the greatest of all professions. She who can
paint a masterpiece, or who can write a book that will influence
millions, deserves the admiration and plaudits of mankind; but she who
rears successfully a family of healthy, beautiful sons and daughters,
whose immortal souls will exert an influence throughout the ages long
after paintings shall have faded, and books and statues shall have
decayed or have been destroyed, deserves the highest honor that man can
give, and the choicest blessings of God."
Teachings of Presidents of the Church: David O. McKay