The Golden Rule applied to Mine, Yours and Our Things

Hymn: “I Believe in Being Honest” pg 149 (Children’s)

Objective: Do you have a “black hole” in the house? Are you discovering things where they should not be? Are your things being returned to you in poor condition? Unsure of how to get permission or what the rules of borrowing from a family memeber/friend? Are you missing something? This lesson is to help you open an honest discussion on the value of personal property. How does one become willing to lend and trust others with their things without the fear of them being broken, lost or never returned? How does one gain the trust of others with thier personal belongings? This is great for beginners; such as children learning to share – and for those who just needing a gentle reminder.

Talks: “Thou Shalt Not Steal” by Richard D. Draper Liahona Oct. 98

“Moroni and the Chocolate Chip Cookies” April Anderson Gohier Friend Apr.99

“Let Them Eat Figs” by Jack Weyland New Era Oct 91

Scriptures: D&C 42:20, 85 , Romans 2:21, Genesis 31:27, D&C59:6

What is stealing?

What are the consequences of stealing? – Discuss the rules set in your own households, among friends and within the laws of the City/State/Country.

When you want something what can you do or say to get/borrow/have it? – Saying ‘Please’ and ‘Thank you’. Working to earn the object. Show care and respect for your own things. (Why would this be important?) Be trustworthy in all your dealings.

How do we let others know that we will not steal/damage or loose their things? By being good siblings/friends/children. If we take care of each other we’ll be sure to take care of thier personal belongings.

How can we learn to trust others with our things? Little by little. With the full love of Christ in our hearts. By applying the Golden Rule – Treat other peoples things as you would have them treat yours.

Activity/Treat: This can be done at the beginning of FHE or at the end. Assign someone to make the dough/batch of goodies. Assign another person or person(s) to keep track of the time once the dessert is in the oven and remove it to cool. Assign another to serve and another to clean up. This will show everyone that by taking care of the task of making dessert, trusting each other to do their part in being responsible, that the end result is sweet and enjoyed by all. Just as it would be when we share our belongings with each other. If we take care and take turns enjoying what’s ours, yours and mine life can be just as sweet. *a side note – If someone were to steal bits and pieces of the dough or time the treat won’t come out as great, enough for everyone or not at all edible; leaving a very disappointed family.