Monday, November 07, 2011

Ordinary Mary


I love the story Ordinary Mary's Extraordinary Deed. In the book, Mary does something kind, which prompts the recipient to do something for someone else until eventually everyone in the world has been touched by kindness thanks to Mary's good deed. I love the idea that we can pass along kindness, but I am afraid I am seriously in debt.

Yesterday I only left my house to go to church and my parents' house, but as I think of the people who have touched my life, the list seems huge compared to how few places I have been. Here are a few of the people that did "extraordinary deeds" in just one day:

-My Primary Presidency: We had a presidency meeting yesterday, and they are such an amazing support as we get ready for the new year in Primary (There is SO much to be done)

-The Primary Teachers/Leaders: I have such a wonderful, reliable Primary Board; I never worry that a class will be left alone, or that we won't have anyone to play the piano/lead the music.

-The Elder's Quorum: We had a Visiting Teaching Conference during the third hour of church yesterday and the Elder's Quorum took over the combined Sharing Time and Singing Time so all of the sisters who serve in Primary could attend.

-The Relief Society Presidency (Stake and Ward) During the Visiting Teaching Conference I had two members of the Stake Relief Society Presidency approach me to see how I was doing and just say Hello. I also was able to visit with someone from the Ward RS presidency to talk about the best way to get messages about RS to those who serve in Primary. They have so many people to look after I am amazed at how much time they take to lift and serve the sisters in the area.

-The Stake Presidency: The Stake President spoke in the conference yesterday, and hearing the sweet simple message he shared (Be a PRO--Pray Read & Obey every day) reminded me that if I do the simple things the Lord will take care of the difficult things. I can only imagine the hours he and his counselors spend on their knees praying for the members of the Stake. What a blessing it is to have such a great Stake Presidency.

-My family (immediate and extended): Where would I be without my family? We were able to go to my parents' house for dinner, and I didn't have to bring a thing! It was such a wonderful, relaxing evening, and I was reminded how grateful I am for my family.

-My neighbors: Attending Relief Society with all the women in the neighborhood was such a nice experience. It always feels so great to hear a friendly "hello" when you enter a room. As much as I love the children in our ward it was really nice to see friends that I don't always get to talk to since I am usually in the Primary room.

So, as you can see it would take me a lifetime to try to pass along all the kindness that has been shown to me in just one day. I feel so blessed to have such wonderful people in my life, and I would be remiss if I didn't at least say THANK YOU! to everyone who blesses my life in so many ways!

1 comment:

DeAnna Packer said...

Like Bread on the Waters....So goes the sweet efforts of one Busy Primary President and Mother of four, who is CONTINUALLY doing for others. Humility is one of your best virtues Heather!!!! Love you.