Wait, didn't I already use this title? Oh yes, back in June when my church service assignments changed drastically and I was about to start work with the young women (girls aged 12-18) of our church. Well, a short yet eventful 3 months later, that service is over. My husband already serves as the Bishop or lay minister of our congregation, and while our family is older and the kids are pretty independent, and we felt good about me taking on a major role as the president of the girls youth auxiliary, the leaders of our church had different ideas. Just a few weeks after I was called, a letter came from Salt Lake asking that Bishops' wives not be auxiliary presidents and if currently serving, they should be released. It was a general letter, it just happened to apply to us at an interesting time. So there you have it. There is a scripture in the Book of Mormon that counsels against "running faster than you have strength" and arranging one's priorities "in wisdom and order." I can see the wisdom and order in having a policy like this. Even though things were going fine and everyone was up to the challenge of both Eric and I being pretty busy, it will make things easier on our family. The only sad part about it is that I LOVE teenagers. I know, crazy, huh? Not everyone does, but I do and so I will really, really miss working with them. I will miss their energy and their willingness to question what they are taught and try to find out what is right and true for themselves. I love their boldness and I've learned over the years to be pretty patient with their goofiness. My inner child has never grown up, so I remember being a teenager and saying the same things they say.
Anyway, just because I don't have a formal calling doesn't mean I can't be their friend, and their friend I shall remain. As my pal who holds this calling in another congregation always says, "I'm their biggest fan." I can be that anytime.
So, for the moment I'm between gigs, as they say. I'm curious and excited to see what comes next. I hope I'll still be able to work with young people in some capacity, but if not, I'll get to learn to do something new after working with kids in one way or another for the past 18 years or so at church.
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Wow. I didn't know about that policy change, but it sounds like an inspired one. Eager to see what's next! :)
ReplyDeleteIt was so great to work with you. You are an amazing woman!
ReplyDeleteI feel sad for the girls. They were probably so excited to work with you, and now so sad. Well things should slow down for you then eh?
ReplyDeleteI hope I can love teenagers as much as you when my kids get older (I must confess they scare me a little)!! The girls must be so sad to be loosing you, but that new policy makes a lot of sense. Hope you get to relax a bit before the next calling comes!
ReplyDeleteOh man. I know all you said is true. Maybe when my kids turn 13 I'll just send them to you :) Love you!
ReplyDeleteThis will work out for the best. I figure by the time my girls are teens, your husband will be released and you can be YW president again to mold my girls into great women!
ReplyDeleteYour husband was so sweet when he explained what was happening. He had me tearing up.
I could tell Eric was having a hard time with this, but it does speak to his and your willingness to follow the direction from Salt Lake, regardless of how hard it is. You're a good example to us all.
ReplyDeleteYou make a great cheerleader for all the teenagers, official or not.
Wow I have been missing out on big changes. I am sorry for you and the youth they were probably so happy to have you. I think it is awesome your great examples in following the council of the leaders of the church. You are so fun and a great force for good! Miss you.
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