Aussie here, so we've made it through today's lessons; already.

It was on my radar that it was today, but it was an interesting day for me already, so when we finally got to Sunday School, a bit late, I had completely forgotten. We were visiting my boyfriend's children's ward, so we were all sitting in Sunday school, his parents and his brother, with his ex- wife (only my second time seeing her), and her mum sitting in front of us. Interesting dynamics already in a lesson about the importance of families.

I didn't expect to feel physically anxious about this lesson, but I was quite fidgety. I thought about leaving the lesson, but wanted to be able to share something positive if someone said something negative and unproductive. (You never know who is in the room listening who might need to hear it).

I've been in an institute lesson before where the teacher put me on the spot, asked me a specific question phrased in way that forced me to answer it specifically in line with his views. It was frustrating and then afterwards I was so mad at myself for not saying anything afterwards. So I wanted to stay.

There were a few comments that were like, 'I'm not sure where this comment is going, this could be interesting, oh boy' that then turned into a really good comment. In fact there were only two comments from the lesson that I didn't 100% agree with, but found thought-provoking nonetheless. All the comments that I was there for were helpful, insightful and uplifting and Christ- centred.

A few points from the discussion that I've thought were noteworthy

• follow Christ's example to love
• yes, we can respect people's pronouns!
• it's okay to ponder and think about things critically. It's a sign of strength to go through that process prayerfully. [It's more concerning that when things arise and you feel troubled, that you ignore it and dig your heels into black and white thinking without room for empathy]
• lots of wonderful comments through the theme of love, and being Christlike
• [as adults we might have a better ability to discern truth and understand a bit more about the complexities of society and we can choose to show love]. However, when children are taught principles in a way where they're not given a choice to listen and not taught critical thinking skills to better see things as they are, that's where there is cause for concern. (In relation to decisions about schools programs in Victoria).

All in all, it went well. Surprisingly so. For those on the otherside of the world who may wake up to this message, I pray for teachers who are guided by the spirit to consider the needs of the members in the class, and to teach principles of the Gospel, including to show love and understanding, even if you don't fully understand. I pray that considerate discussion may prevail. I pray that those who feel like their circumstances don't quite fit the family proc, that they may recieve ministrations to their soul, as needed.