small act... Big impression

I have a friend who is from Iraq, who has been living here in Utah with her two small daughters for the past year. The first time I met them was just a few months ago, while at church, where they were seeking financial help. I quickly became more acquainted with them, which has resulted into a close friendship. My husband and I, along with every other member at my church, have been advised not to speak of gospel principles with her or her children; reason being, is if she is ever sent back to her country she could possibly loose her life. My husband and I were invited to her home for dinner this last Sunday. The food was amazing, and she was a fantastic little hostess. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to step outside of my own culture for one day. I have gained more respect for her and her culture; which makes me want to be a little better in  my own. I have been so blessed to have grow up with so many privileges and freedoms. One word... humbling.

The length of a smile

Have you ever gone through a day feeling under the weather and some random person-driving in the next car next to you, walking past you in the grocery store, or sitting next to you on the bus-  took a moment to look you in the eyes and smile? My husband and I were at Macey's last night, when an old,frail man shuffled in the store.  He didn't seem very coherent of what was going on around him. He shuffled towards the motor-carts, started it up and began driving past us. I couldn't help but smile at him as he drove by. He then stopped immediately and said, "Young lady thank you for that smile... there's nothing like a smile from a pretty lady. Thank you!"  As he drove away he too had a big smile on his face.  I've always been the person on the other end... and from my experience both ends are worth smiling about.      

Catching up on blessings

(Aug 08, 2011)                                                 

Today I got off of work 30 minutes late. Took the same route home I take everyday, but instead of a road free from congested traffic, it was a rush-hour nightmare. On the drive home, the 'freeway' lost its meaning, I stopped for 10 minutes at a time, and when I moved I only moved about 3 yards at a time. My patience was wearing thin. It was 6:15 and I couldn't stop thinking about an important appointment I had to be at (7:pm) and couldn't miss.  There was a few things I still needed to get done at home before going to the appointment.  Thanks to a working cell phone and my dear husband who happened to be home, I was able to call and ask him to make the cookies I needed for my appointment and to also pray that I would somehow make it home at 6:45. After I got through talking to my husband I asked Heavenly Father to give me a better attitude because I was lacking patience. Soon enough I was singing to a country song on the radio and completely forgot about how long I had been on the road.  Soon the road cleared and I arrived home right at 6:45.

My heart goes out to all those of you who have to drive through rush-hour everyday. I am thankful for the gift of prayer, but most of all for God hearing and answering our prayers.