So, I was sustained as Relief Society President today. I can't even begin to describe how 'all over the map' my emotions have been. I was stunned by the call, but I have made my peace, and luckily I have some excellent counselors that will hopefully buoy me up.
I want to remember my first thoughts, so I will put them down here. I know that I tend to not talk about my religion in great depth on this blog. This is not because I do not believe or have a strong testimony, but simply because this blog feels like wading in the shallow end of a pool. I have fun, splash around, but I don't have to worry about getting into the deep issues. Some times I will swim out far enough to speak my piece, but I find it easier to sit on the edge, dabble my feet in the water and laugh at life.
When it comes to my feelings concerning my religion and the Savior, I tend to cry. Not because it makes me sad, but because my convictions and feelings are so strong that they touch my core; my heart. And it tends to leak out my eyes. (Trust me when I say that I could do without all the water works, but that is how it is for me.) I believe wholeheartedly in Jesus Christ and his Atonement. I believe in the prophets, past and present. I know the Book of Mormon is true. Just ask me. I'll tell you and if you can understand me through the crying, I'll tell you some more.
So naturally, I would accept this opportunity to serve. But that doesn't mean I wouldn't second guess the choice of ME. I realize that I am a good person, but I was content in believing that I wasn't President material...yet. I kinda always figured that I would be some day. (Not that I wishing and hoping for this calling, but I guess some day I thought I would feel worthy of it.) Well, who knows if I ever would have gotten around to feeling that way. The Lord didn't wait to find out.
I walked out of the Bishop's office and this is the thought that went through my head, "Well, if I am going to do this calling...this is what I want in return: My allergies to go away completely and I would like to grow a few inches taller." Let's ignore the fact that I was asking for impossible stuff and go straight to the part where I quickly rescinded that thought because it flashed into my head that I could be Relief Society president for 50 years and still not pay the Lord back for all he has done for me. And truthfully, I don't want the calling that long. Later I thought of my beautiful, healthy children, my wonderful, supportive husband, and the scripture came to mind, For of him unto whom much is given, much is required. (Doctrine and Covenants 82:3) And being the RS President is not asking that much. I am happy to serve, even if I still can't breathe that well May through July. (Seriously, I'm going to the doctor next Spring. Hold me to it.)
The good news is that I love the sisters in my ward, and since I was the secretary beforehand, I know about 95% of them. So, I am not just saying that I love the sisters in my ward because that is the cliche thing to do. (It actually kind of bugs me when people get up and say, I love all of you, and they don't even know me. I realize they are speaking in general, but still...) Nope, I really know most of the sisters in my ward, and I really like the people they are. I hope I can show these women that I love life, but I love it because I live the gospel. It sustains me.
But enough of the serious and verbose. (I did warn you.) I'm sure my blog will quickly return to the light-hearted fluff you are used to, interspersed with the quasi-serious moments. But I needed to tell you that I know my Savior lives. I know prayers are answered and that he listens. That will give me the peace I need to do His work.
Wow - I am truly humbled. What on earth did Dad and I do to deserve such a wonderful daughter as you are. It's a good thing you're not here in person, or you would see me doing a bit of leaking myself. The Spirit of the Lord is obviously working in our families right now. If you trust in Him, I know you'll do just fine in your new calling. I realize that callings aren't a competition, but I am pretty sure that being Relief Society President isn't on MY horizon. Thank goodness. Both Dad and I love and support you - and if there is anything we can do to help, you only have to ask.
ReplyDeleteAnd water works here, too. It might be a good thing that you don't get deep too often, because you know what I mess I am when it comes to stuff like this. (My water works started before the words...just the photo at the beginning did it for me!). You will do such a great job. You do love the women around you. I can feel it and I hope everyone else can, too. I am so blessed to have you as a friend! I hope you feel peace as you get your feet wet on this new adventure.
ReplyDeleteI am so thrilled for the women in your ward who get to have such a wonderful, thoughtful leader. Your testimony and the depth of your conviction is evident even in the smaller, lighter topics you blog about. I am sure that the Lord's choicest blessings await you.
ReplyDeleteAs soon as they announced they were releasing and calling new people to RS and Primary... I knew you were going to be the new president! You will do fantastic and you will touch so many lives. You have already touched mine! I know you are already a busy busy women but my old bishop always said... "The busier you are the better you will do!" ;)
ReplyDeleteCongratulations! I know you are going to be a great PR President. You have many special gifts and it looks like it's time to utilize them in RS. It's all in God's hands and you are a great instrument.
ReplyDeleteCongrats! The only time that I get a calling in priesthood is when all of the other young men have left to go to the next up group and I have to be the president because I am the only one there for a while. But I still do the job with a smile on my face and a positive attitude. (not really)... but I know that you will be a great president. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you'll do great! I have to admit that being RS Pres. isn't high on my list of things I am dying to do. Good luck with everything!
ReplyDeleteMaleen, you will serve the sisters in your ward in a way no other can. I know those feelings you have, very overwhelming. You might also warn whoever your secretary is, they might be the next president. At least that's the way it seems to work around there. :)
ReplyDeleteMaleen, I think you will be absolutely wonderful in this calling. I truly believe that it will come so naturally to you because you are that person, the woman who serves and exemplifies what we as women should all aspire to be. I know you'll be great!
ReplyDeleteLadies, thank you all for your kind words. I feel with support like this, how could I fail?
ReplyDeleteI miss the fabulous Vineyard 2nd ward so much, but knowing that such a wonderful woman as you is the new RS Pres, makes me miss it even more. You are so great at making everyone around you feel loved and important. I know you are going to do such a wonderful job. GOOD LUCK!!
ReplyDeleteOh, Maleen, my friend. You will be exactly what the sisters in your RS need. I know because you have a willing heart, faith and a testimony. That is all that is required.
ReplyDeleteI love how you described your blog as "the shallow end". I feel exactly the same about mine. My blog is my place to laugh at the hard stuff. But really there is a lot more to me. Maybe someday I'll be able to show all of it. I would love to hear more about your adventures as a new RS president! Good luck! And here is my best, unsolicited advice: Visit new sisters in the ward quickly and make them feel welcome. ;) It makes all the difference.
Good luck! I don't know much about what this calling needs (because I actually haven't been to RS in about...4 years :( ) but good luck, and those women are lucky to have you!
ReplyDeleteThe Lord knows what He is doing. You are amazing and will be able to bless lives that no one else would be able to. Keep on keepin' on. I stand in awe of you. Love you.
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