Service - Paying it Forward

Just a quick post before I begin the struggle to try and sleep a bit!

I was talking with a friend today about all of the struggles that we are facing in the world today. More specifically, the financial struggles that many of our own friends and family (and ourselves!) are going through right now. We were talking about job issues and issues with being able to make ends meet (or not being able to...) . It struck me very hard that there is at least one bright spot in the gloom and doom that seems to be around every corner these days. I think it is the opportunity and desire to serve that voraciously seems to come into play during these times. I know that I have personally been in awe over the service that my family has received over the last several weeks, especially by those that seem to be in need themselves, but still find the time to give in some form or another. I have had my testimony of service so strongly reinforced these last weeks through meals, phone calls, babysitting my 4 year-old (that right there deserves to be awarded with the highest of honors!)gifts given to that 4-year old, and a beautiful baby shower, attended by so many and given so selflessly during these hard economic times. I am not sure all of these women (and men!!!) really know the impact they have had on my testimony and my family's lives. It has done my heart good to view my friends and family in this way! As I was talking to this friend, and in some small way able to help her with a struggle she was having, I realized that yes, little-ole (HA-HA!) bed-rested me can also serve and pay forward the many kindnesses that have been shown me. It didn't cost me a thing and it sure made my day knowing that I could do something to make this doom and gloom a little brighter! I really think that is why the Lord gives us these hard times.To remind us of our purpose here in mortality and to prove to Him that we can and will prevail.