Monday, March 31, 2008

Service

There are some things that can't be taught to our children. I always hope and pray that I'm leading by example to my kids.

My neighbor Linda made us a beautiful Easter bread. I seriously wish I would have taken a picture of it. She promised she'll teach me how to make this delicious bread. It tastes as wonderful as it looks. Anyway I washed her plate and was returning it yesterday. The kids helped me make white chocolate/macadamia nut cookies. The kids decorated them with all sorts of different sprinkles. At first I didn't want them to. Then I thought what would it hurt. It made them happy. I put a few on the plate and asked Jacob if he'd like to walk across the street with me. He said he'd love to. Marli and Conor were taking naps. We held hands as we walked. He noticed that since the snow melted on that side of the street (we still have 6' snow drifts on our side) that the river rocks were all over the grass, sidewalk,street that belonged in Linda and Gary's landscaping. Together we put rocks back. While I was visiting with Gary, Jacob continued putting the little rocks were he thought they should go. I really wasn't paying much attention until after 20 minutes or so Gary made a comment to Jake. He told him he really appreciated Jake taking the time and effort to clean up the rocks. Jake was so sweet when he looked over at Gary and said no problem it's my job to help out. Jake continued for several more minutes enjoying helping his neighbor. I know this may seem simple, but it really got me thinking about service. When Jake and I finally returned home I sat down with him and talked to him about service and that I really appreciated him seeing something that he could do to help another and doing it. Not only doing it without being asked or rewarded, but doing it with a smile. I wanted to write about this before a day went by and it was forgotten. I have felt completely overwhelmed lately. Too busy to blog.I can't find the time to do much of anything, but take care of my family, church calling and job. Then I remembered why I started a blog so long ago. To document the day to day things that I never want to be forgotten. This memory for me as a mom was too important to not jot down.



I came across a talk that reminded me a lot of what I felt as I watched my son doing service.

The Master Bridge Builder
Thomas S. Monson

We look to the Savior as our example of service. The bridge of service invites us to cross over it frequently.




During His ministry on the earth, Jesus Christ spent His time serving and helping others. True disciples of Jesus Christ do likewise. The Savior said, "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another" (John 13:35).





I'm at work and getting ready to call it a day. I know how important it is to do my part when I see anothers need. I found out from a friend today that a family here in Idaho Falls lost their seven year old son to cancer. There is a bunch of us that are going to get together and make some cards, send them to this family. I know how much it means to know other people are thinking of you. I'm grateful for the holy ghost and the promtings we can receive when we are in tune. I'm grateful for my children and the example they are to me.

3 comments:

Reuel said...

We are so proud of you, Jakey, also of you, Lori, for being such a good mom. You're both following in Jesus' footsteps, because he told us that we should do the things that we've seen him do. Jake, you're a good example to all of us in your family. We love you guys!

Grandma Lyn and Grandpa Reuel

kim said...

You are a great example of service, Lori! You are always so willing to do whatever you can, to help anyone. What a sweet post! Jakey will always remember this special day with you. Service will be very important to him...

I know what you mean about being overwhelmed with everything! I am there with you! And I don't even work! I don't know how you do it all! Love you!

Melissa said...

I'm so happy to see you blogging again! Thanks for sharing this sweet experience you had with Jake. You are such a great example to your kids and everyone else in the family. I love you so much!!