The end of the year is here. I like to think it is a time for reflection on what I have done. I can only see what I've done and measure up to myself. How have I responded to people when they have joked, criticized, or attacked my beliefs? Have I used any of these moments to teach them something or to clear up a misconception? Have my actions or words left an impact for good? Have I shared my talents or hidden them? These are a few soul searching questions I've have for my reflection
As this season of joyous celebration comes, I think of those who have been hurt or feel left behind. When most Christians are feeling the apperication for the Lord's birth, there are those who are very sad and need comfort. Here is an experience I reflect on very often.
Early in December, several years ago, as I was passing through the Cortez Public Library, I met up with a member in my ward. She had me sit down with her to find some sing a-long Christmas songs for her little girls 1st birthday party that evening. I smiled and tried as I held that cooing and giggling little girl on my lap. We looked unsuccessfully on the Internet for a few minutes. Then found some in a few books. The mother thanked me and left with her daughter. The next day was Sunday and I'd asked the father of the daughter how the party went for his granddaughter, as we headed into Priesthood. He grabbed my shoulders and told me with tears in his eyes, it was wonderful. He then told me that they were killed coming home. My heart stopped. I hugged this brother as he wepted. In my mind I could see and hear the echo of that smiling, giggling baby. It was a heart wrenching Christmas for that family.
As time went on, I learned more in detail about the accident. I learned found I also knew the driver of the other car. He had several children and had struggled with Alcoholism for many years. When the emergency service arrived the man was sitting on the side of the road not understanding what he had done. From my understanding he is serving time for three counts of vehicular homicide. This doesn't give closure to the heartache those left in the remaining ripples of this life altering moment. So many impacted lives were touched by this. With such a tragedy in my heart, I prayed to to understand how to use this remaining heartache. I have gained compassion for the survivors of these moments of life. So many years have pasted by and the tears still fall as freely
Reflecting these memories, makes me want to leave each person with a kind comment before company is dispersed. The frustration of a careless moment has continued to teach of the long term effect we can have. I have an almost one year old now. I love Dimitri so much. I use my pain to help me raise and appreciate him at every moment we have.
As you go about your missionary duties remember that there are many who are in great pain this time of the year. You might never share a lesson with a person you show compassion towards, but the path will be open for someone else. You will have been the Lord emissary. A lesson applied to my own life, then I take this and apply it to someone who is not having a Happy Christmas. Empathy and Compassion are two Traits of The Savior that must be learned by experience.
I Love the Work you do. I often reflect on my own mission. It has been 10 years now. I think of the great people we met and the many doors we visited. I think of the times we changed our approaches to fit the people who we were attempting to teach. The Saviour has a message and we are the bearers. Have a productive and happy Christmas Season.
John, Jennifer and Dimitri Webber
