Light Inspiration and Gratitude

 

I didn’t know what inspirational story to share on facebook – though I thought it should be personal.  I had considered the last day my mom was in the hospital and how all four of her children were there trying to plan her funeral and asking her questions that related.  She was between worlds and so when she gave us answers we weren’t always certain which side she was talking to.  For example Corey had asked about what hymns she would want to be sung.  I knew she likes “I Am a Child of God” and would like it sung at her funeral. When Corey asked “What hymns do you like?” she smiled and said, “That’s a secret.”

I don’t remember all of our conversation.  I know it was a good conversation and all four of her children laughed together.  It felt like an inspirational mood.  I had also considered a time when we had gone to see my great grandma at the nursing home.  Mom had gone diligently every week and grandma, for the most part, hadn’t seemed too with it or able to communicate. 

It was in December – I think just before or maybe on Christmas day – my dad was with us and we sang some Christmas carols and Grandma sang with us.  That was really touching to have her join us and feel like angels were present.  It was later in the evening when I wrote the following:

 

“I did not get dressed today. I wasn't going anywhere and thought my pajamas felt comfortable. As I was thinking about an inspirational story that I could post, I thought about Shauna Hamp who would always get dressed no matter what ailed her because "only sick people stay in their pajamas".

“Shauna was a HUGE inspiration to everyone who knew her. She laughed and smiled and always focused on the good and service of others. I did not know her before she was diagnosed with Scleroderma - a disease that seemingly suffocates the skin and tissues within. When her crippling disease became to painful for her to work in her profession of physical therapy, she went back to school to get her license to become an RN. Shauna outlived her disease by 17 years due to her healthy attitude. She truly was an inspiration. I have good memories of many people in that ward who endured and have taught me a lot.”

         

From that same ward I had interaction with two members who had overcome agoraphobia.  Sharon had shared her story with a small group.  I would have never thought that had ever been a problem.  It seems like this pandemic would have been the perfect place for them at one time.  

There are countless things that I am grateful for. The “light” I shared today was this post:

I have been grateful for the "Come Follow Me" program since its introduction. I am grateful for those who have taken it upon themselves to share their insight. I love watching Don't Miss This with Emily Freeman and David Butler. I also learn a lot from Teach With Power presented by Brad Wilcox. It is especially wonderful to have these tools during the pandemic.––

Let Your Light So Shine

                Light of the World Calendar suggestion for yesterday was to think of someone who is an example of Christlike service and showcase the example on social media.  For the most part, I think most of the Christlike examples I know would not wish to be showcased on social media.  My dad was such an example who preferred to remain behind the scenes and not have others glorify his acts.  He liked to go about things quietly and remain unnoticed.

          I’ve mentioned Josh Norton’s name in a few of my assignments.  He was the lifeguard manager when we first moved to Myrtle Creek.  Last year he became the city recorder.  He doesn’t mind the social media – I don’t think.  Josh is a great guy who is quite the go-getter and has done so much in bringing the community together with activities and showcasing community members.  When he is not serving Myrtle Creek, Josh travels to third world communities to assist with making things better.  Currently, he is in the peace corps and loves serving those he meets.  There just aren’t enough words to express how Christlike his actions are.

          There is also a couple in our ward who had involved themselves in the ministry program long before there was an official ministry program.  Though I have referred to them as Frank and Marie Barone at times, I have also referred to her as the “Florence Nightengale” of our ward.  She does so much for so many people – though at times her actions may seem a bit overbearing – just as Bob’s intentions were always Christlike, the results or methods he used weren’t always received or done in a Christlike manner (see here) 

          We all have flaws.  There are those who strive better than others.  There are those who follow Christ’s example.  There are those who love others unconditionally.  There are go-getters.  There are quiet background people.  I think Christ was more of a go-getter.  I think he made things happen, told jokes and stories and was fun to be around.  I also believe that there were many activities that he did in a quiet manner.  It’s important that we allow Him to shine through us by our example

        For more about Josh see here and here.