Eve

Here are just a couple things I learned/thought about Eve as I read in Genesis and the Gospel Principles manual.

• Eve was created because it is not good that man should be alone. This principle has stuck through the ages, and it's one of the first ones we were ever taught by God. We, as wives, have a specific role- to be THERE for our husbands! So they are not alone.
• Eve was a help meet for Adam. Meet means suited for, worthy of, or corresponding to him. I love that explanation. It wasn't just that she was there to help him- to cook and clean and make sure he took a bath. No, she was specifically meant for him. She was worthy of him. And to me, saying that she was corresponding to him means that she held similar character traits, but also complemented him. like a puzzle piece. Puzzle pieces fit together but aren't exactly the same.
• I wish there were more about Eve specifically in our church doctrine. I know that Eve was a chosen woman, chosen from the beginning. I also know that her role in the Fall was essential... otherwise it might not have ever happened. I just wish that there was more explanation about the fact that Eve didn't make a mistake that ruined things. She got the ball rolling! If Eve had not been so righteous and worthy of Adam, God would not have had her be his wife. He wouldn't have put Eve in the garden if she was going to be a "bad influence," leading Adam further from God. Yes, their choice did temporarily take them farther from God, but it made it possible for them to be closer than ever to Him at the same time. In fact, it was the only way for them to become like God. 

I would really love a look inside Eve's head. All we have are the scriptures and temple portraying what happened, which is fine, but I think she knew a LOT more than the story lets on. I think she understood the ins and outs of the gospel and their role in the garden, she didn't just make some random "mistake." 

So in applying this to me? As a wife and a mother, it's important that I understand my own role in our earthly family and our eternal family. I think that learning as much as I can about the gospel, teaching my kids, and studying my patriarchal blessing will help me understand my identity better.