Light the World

Writing at times seems like “mission impossible,” especially when it comes to recording events that I know I won’t be able to find words to describe.  So a feeble attempt.

            I took leave from the mission from December 7 to December 14 and flew to Kansas, using new baby Wesley as my reason for absence.  I did get cuddle time--and pacing time--with him and also time to enjoy my other Kansas kids.  Not enough time.  When it was time to leave, 3-year-old Benson spread himself wide across the door and told me, “Don’t you dare!”   A grandma divided is a mix of happy-sad—always.

            The week before Kansas, some of Elder Challis’ siblings joined us for dinner and a walk through the lights.  Cold noses, but warm hearts.  The two of us have discovered that the best time to walk through the lights is at 6 am.  We have “the place all to ourselves.”  I think it would take me a very long time not to be amazed at the sight every single morning, especially with the temple as the focal point.   

            And speaking of things of beauty, the Conference Center is glorious with trees and lights—and music.  We went to “Music and the Spoken Word” this morning—the sights, the sounds!   (Mission impossible.)   I was moved to tears thinking of all the people who care so much about presenting a gift “fit for a King.”   

            One last “ponder in my heart” experience:  one of our Kansas families is intent on “lighting the world,” even by simple things like smiling at others at school.  On the give-to-a-charity-day, they choose items from the Giving Machine.  Since there was not one near them, we made their selections while they watched on face time: chickens, polio vaccine, basketballs, a sheep.   That doesn’t seem like it would be a spiritual experience, but it was—an exceedingly joyous one: “I have no greater joy than to know that my children walk in light and truth,” and that they are teaching their children to do the same.

            Thinking about the love I have for the little ones in my life makes finding “lost children” in records even sweeter.   That has happened more than a few times recently as more records have become digitized and searchable. Surely mothers—and grandmothers--in heaven are rejoicing.     

We met at the Y...

Family

Sweet blessings

"Don't you dare!"  

Morning walk.