Day #8

Hello friends!

Sometimes I like to start these as if we're all the closest of friends, which is true for those who take time to read this. Because of the blogging world, and life connections, we're bonded. We share details of our lives, feelings, thoughts, and experiences, and though it's all through the superficial wiring of technology, it has a close feeling to it. So thanks for taking time to read this and share in some of my life experiences. I look forward to reading yours.

Yesterday my planned service changed. I ended up doing something for a different friend. I didn't think of it as a service until she thanked me after. I spent some time listening to and chatting with a friend, celebrating with her because of some great experiences she's having. Now, "why would that be a service, Kristi?!" Maybe you asked yourself that question. Let's just say that the area of life that she's celebrating right now is an area in my life that took an unexpected turn (which is actually quite for the best! :) ). But that didn't stop me from celebrating with my friend, though I'm sure it would have been easier to withdraw into myself and my own thoughts. It was wonderful to celebrate with her. I loved it. She thanked me for spending time listening and sharing my thoughts even though my situation was different than what I thought. That's when it hit me - it's so much more fulfilling to look outside of ourselves and into the life and joys of others, even though our own thoughts seem to be more consuming.

Today I sent some scriptures to a friend in the cast of Christmas Carol that I've come to know and love as I've performed with her. Tomorrow the missionary that she's written for two years comes home. She's terrified, of course, as any girl would be at this homecoming, as she considers all of the possible outcomes. His family wants her to be at the airport so she thought she'd bring a little something for him. She wanted to do something that wouldn't be too big or overwhelming for him so she thought of his favorite candy and a poster. She came to me for help, wondering what a returned missionary would like to come home to, and I suggested that she add some comfort scriptures on the note she writes him. Returning home from a mission is, in my opinion, dreadful! And nothing comforted me more than spiritual reminders, things that reminded me of the Savior, of missionary work, of service, the gospel, etc. So I found a couple of scriptures that will hopefully bring comfort to her missionary as he embraces "normal" life again. If anyone is interested I suggested Philippians 4:13 (a personal favorite of mine), or 2 Tim 4:5-7.

Goodnight, my friends! Until tomorrow...