I have been contemplative this past weekend (well, as much as I could be with a houseful of family to visit with, cook for, and try to keep some semblance of order). Sunday was the one-year anniversary of my call from the Bishop to serve in this calling. Sometimes I cannot believe that a year has gone by. As I look back I once again see that my Heavenly Father provided that weekend for me—a quiet contemplative time, when my husband was able to take the kids to visit family and leave me with silence, a somewhat rare treasure in our home. He also opened the way for me to be in the temple as soon as possible after that call, the Tuesday after Memorial Day. I gained strength, focus, and comfort as I spent time in the Celestial room to prepare me to meet the challenges ahead. This year I once again found myself back in the temple on that same Tuesday—this time it was also a privilege to support a friend receiving her endowment for the first time, but also, again, I see the Lord providing the way for me to accomplish the thing which he has asked. That just struck me even as I typed it and could hear Nephi’s words saying something so similar, though his case was a little more intimidating than mine—he didn’t get to work with the amazing sisters of this ward!
I just want to let you all know what a privilege and honor this past year has been, and though I fear greatly that I may have missed needs, neglected times of service because I was not all that I needed to be, yet you have blessed my life. Your examples and influences, and most of all your love and willingness to support me have meant so much. As we arranged the visiting teaching again this past month and made some needed changes, I waited nervously to see how things would go. And then I rejoiced as sisters who had not been in a great while went. And sisters who had never gone had chance to and though the seed is only being planted, I know that if we will continue faithful, we will have a great harvest as we come to love and know those whom we serve. Thank you, thank you, thank you. The time you spend, the effort you put in will bless your family, will teach them of your love for the Lord and your priority to put him first. The other day Tatelyn was given a little purse from a friend and Bryson was being silly and trying to bite it—she got upset with him and said, “Bryson, don’t bite my Relief Society Bag!!” And even though they were fighting, I had a small glimpse that they were learning and I said a quick prayer of gratitude that my children are being blessed through my service.
Your visits to those you serve help me so much more than most of you know—I worry and I stress because I know that there are sisters in need of help. My kids end up sick, or we are gone, or I am busy with the necessities of home and family and I feel I cannot do it all, and the spirit tries again to remind me—that is what the visiting teachers are for. When you help by visiting your sisters, my load is eased and my gratitude great. You are amazing daughters of our Father in Heaven who have so many incredible gifts and talents to use, and I am so thankful that He trusts me to serve you.
Love,
Sister Perkins
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