Selected from “Intelligence and Affection” by Parley P. Pratt
1. Some have supposed that our natural affections were the results of a fallen and corrupt nature and that they are “carnal, sensual and devilish,” and therefore ought to be resisted, subdued, or overcome as so many evils which prevent our perfection, or progress in the spiritual life. In short, they should be greatly subdued in this world and, in the world to come, entirely done away.
2. Such persons frequently inquire whether they shall recognize their kindred or friends in the life to come. They also caution themselves and others lest they should love their child, their companion, their brother, sister, or mother too well, for, say they: “If you love them too well, it will offend your God, and he will take them from you.”
3. Such persons have mistaken the source and fountain of happiness altogether. They have not one correct idea of the nature of the enjoyments or happiness of heaven or earth, in this life or any other.
4. If intelligence and affection are to decrease to such a low ebb that we shall neither recognize nor love our kindred and friends, then a stone, a block of wood, or a picture on the wall is as capable of the enjoyment of heaven as we are.
5. So far from this being the case, our natural affections are planted in us by the Spirit of God for a wise purpose; they are the very mainsprings of life and happiness – they are the cement of all virtuous and heavenly society – they are the essence of charity or love; and therefore, never fail but endure forever.
6. There is not a more pure and holy principle in existence than the affection which glows in the bosom of a virtuous person for their companion, parents, brothers, sisters, and children.
7. These pure affections are inspired in our bosoms and interwoven with our nature by an all-wise and benevolent being who rejoices in the happiness and welfare of his creatures.
8. All God’s revelations to us touching this subject are calculated to approve, encourage and perfect them so that, enlightened and taught of God, we may be more free, more social, more cheerful, happy, kind, familiar, and lovely than we were before; that we may fill all of our relationships in life, and act in every sphere of usefulness with a greater energy, and with a readier mind, and a more willing heart.
9. Know then that aided and directed by the light of heaven, the sources of your happiness are within and around you.
10. Instead of seeking unto God for a mysterious change to be wrought or for your affections and attributes to be taken away and subdued, look to God for aid and wisdom to govern, direct, and cultivate them in a manner which will tend to your happiness and exaltation, both in this world and in that which is to come.
11. Yea, pray to God that every affection, attribute, power and energy of your body and mind may be cultivated, increased, enlarged, perfected, and exercised for God’s glory and for the glory and happiness of yourself and of all those whose good fortune it may be to be associated with you.