Iam (read as Ai-yam) is just five years old, the youngest son of our dear friends Joel and Charisse. This young boy continues to amaze us with his charming and sweet ways. Every time he sees me and my husband, he would always shout my name – “Mommy Tina”, and he would run towards us to take our hands for the Filipino tradition of “mano po”, a gesture showing respect to the elders. This he would do anytime and anywhere, with practically anybody.

A story was shared by Iam’s Mom about a particular event that made me appreciate gospel teaching by example and the faith of a young child.

One day, Iam’s uncle Paul got sick. Paul asked Joel, Iam’s Dad, for a priesthood blessing. Joel got his vial containing the oil and asked Paul to sit in one of the chairs in the living room. Charisse and her two sons Ghy and Iam were also in the living room. Paul sat and waited for Joel to be ready to receive the blessing. Normally, Iam would sit on Paul’s lap and start a conversation with him. However, on this occasion knowing that Paul was not feeling well, Iam sat quietly and watched as his Dad went about preparing himself to administer the requested priesthood blessing. Everybody was unusually quiet while these activities were taking place.

Before giving the blessing Joel glanced at his family and smiled. Together, they all closed their eyes for the prayer. Joel administered the oil on Paul’s head. With his hand on Paul’s head and his eyes closed, Joel started to pray. Suddenly, he felt something warm in his hand. He felt two little hands lay on top of his. He smiled and continued the prayer.

After the blessing was administered, Joel opened his eyes and met Iam’s innocent smile. Pride and happiness radiated in the little boy’s face. Iam, in his excited voice explained how he wanted to help and told his father you needed someone to help you Dad, so I did.

Teaching by example in the home is still the best way to teach gospel principles to our children. Iam and his Kuya Ghy saw their father exercise his priesthood authority in their home. They, including their mother, received priesthood blessings when they were sick or when they needed comfort. They were taught during Family Home Evenings about the gift of healing by the laying on of hands.

I am certain that as long as Iam will stay close to the church, and with the guidance of his goodly parents, he will grow up to be a great man. He will be a responsible priesthood holder who will not only bless the lives of his family but also those around him.

By Ma. Christina Itchon-Concepcion, Cagayan de Oro Philippines Stake