October 2006 Ensign - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE AUTHORS, EXCEPT AS NOTED; ABOVE: DETAIL FROM THE SECOND COMING, BY GRANT ROMNEY CLAWSON
Sunil Massey family
Helping Raise Seven Children
“Six years ago my wife, Sachiko, died
from cancer. Others worried that our family
of seven children might fall apart without a
mother, but that is the way the world thinks.
We knew there is great strength in the
gospel, so we continued to have family
home evening and family prayer and scripture
study. These have been very helpful in
strengthening our family bonds.
“Because we had the gospel in our home,
our children knew where their mother was.
Masahiro Yonamine family
The gospel blessed their lives, and they felt
that they needed to share those blessings
with others. The children have gone on missions,
one after another.”—Masahiro
Yonamine, Japan
Risking a Career
“While interviewing for my present position
as a senior vice president of a large international
company, I told my direct manager
of my religious beliefs about drinking. I said
that I would not be able to accept the job if
abstaining from drinking would be problematic
in fulfilling my responsibilities.
“At the time, social drinking was very
important in the corporate culture and considered
good stress therapy. It was commonly
understood that social drinking was a part
of a successful career. My manager, though
disappointed that I would not be able to
join him in many executive social circles,
offered me the position, with respect for
my beliefs.
Changing Attitudes
“Following
the Savior makes
me happy. It has
changed my attitude
and my family’s
attitude toward
other people. We’re
more polite and
courteous to everyone.
We’re more
outgoing and
friendly.”—Sunil
Massey, India
ENSIGN OCTOBER 2006 7