Let your light shine

Last weekend was wonderful. Because our office is in a bank, we had Monday off which gave us a three day weekend just like most of the working world. The bishop invited us to dinner at their house on Sunday night where we had an enjoyable visit. We were able to talk with or Skype some of the kids and grandkids which is always a treat for us. And on Monday we went for a walk/hike in the Half Day forest preserve and enjoy nature together.

Our walk ended up being a typical Seattle day; it was overcast and shortly after we left the car, it started to rain. Rather than go back for the umbrella, we just continues on enjoying a walk and visit in the rain. It was even a Seattle rain; just a light drizzle.

We had three Elders over to dinner this week. Hawaiian haystacks were the fare for the evening. One Elder said he had never had Hawaiian haystacks, so he took a very modest portion to begin with. When he realized how yummy they are, he dished himself a huge plate after he finished the first. We love having the missionaries in our home where we can get to know them and feel of their spirits and energy. Their message was one of gratitude for all that we do to make their lives a bit easier.

Oh, I successfully got signed up for Medicare coverage this week. Thanks Linda/Harro for putting me in touch with your friend. He made the whole process much easier to figure out. The joys of getting old continue. One of the assistants noticed my Medicare booklet and said, "You're not old enough to need that." When I informed him that I definitely was, he said, "I thought you were only like 55." Don't I wish.

I helped the assistants to the president and four companionships of zone leaders prepare reports and presentations for either mission leadership council or their stake missionary coordinating meeting.

Friday night, we left the office and headed to Hancock fabric so that Suzy seamstress could get some things she needed for some projects, mostly for missionaries. Earlier that day I watched clouds roll in, the sky turn very dark which was followed by heavy winds and a torrential downpour. As we got closer to Hancock, we noticed lots of tree branches down and then several traffic lights that were not working. Power was lost in quite a few areas and as we drove into the parking lot of Hancock Fabric, all of the businesses were dark. Power was out and everything was closed. My not so happy companion was quite disappointed, particularly since the reasons for going there were primarily for the benefit of our missionaries. So we found a restaurant that was opened, had dinner and returned home somewhat frustrated that Mother Nature had ruined her adventure.

So, yesterday morning, I tricked her a bit by letting her think we were just going to Target to buy a new shower curtain. We did that, but not at the store closest to us. We drove 25 miles North to Crystal Lake where there is another Hancock Fabric and also a Target. We had an enjoyable ride through the countryside, dropped a wad at Hancock, bought a shower curtain and even stopped at a farm stand where we bought some local, fresh corn, tomatoes and potatoes. Dinner last night was simple corn on the cob (the best this season), tomatoes that really tasted like a tomato should and a slice of cheesecake left over from our dinner with Elders.

We ended our week by going out with some Sister missionaries to teach. As it turned out, the guy they had an appointment with wasn't at the address they were given. But we had a very enjoyable conversation with a women from India who is Hindu. She graciously invited us I to her home where it was quite evident that she is very active in her faith. She told us a few stories showing her faith and belief in God. We shared a brief message and invitation with her. I believe that she is quite devoted to her religion.

I thought last night and again this morning about this woman. She doesn't believe as I do but she does believe in God, a supreme being. She doesn't believe in Christ and yet her life and actions are very Christlike. She said that she never locks her door; it is always unlocked so that of someone needs help, etc. they can get it. Based on our conversation with her, I thought what a wonderful place this world would be if everyone simply lived what they believe regardless of what their religious affiliation might be. She comes across as more Christlike than many good Christians that I know who don't practice what they believe.

Bottom line, I guess my thought for this week is, be true to yourself and what you believe. Be the best you you can be and allow your light to shine so that others may see it. I am so grateful for the knowledge I have been blessed with of my Savior and Redeemer; my friend and advocate. I pray that my life and yours may reflect His love and light. As tedious and mundane as live often seems, let your light shine through to bless the lives of others. We love you.



Elder Taggart