Faith | Our lives can be enriched by simply listening

A few years ago, my sister-in-law invited me to the coast to her girlfriends’ getaway. These ladies were from the same graduating class of which I was not a part.

During the three days we were together, I had the opportunity to sit and listen to the stories of their lives since leaving high school.

There were stories filled with happy memories of marriages, children, grandchildren, and also painful moments of divorce, struggling children, and disappointment. I witnessed the strong bond of friendship that existed between these women. It was obvious that they cared deeply for each other.

My life was enriched, and newfound friendships were formed by simply listening.

I have learned, in my later life, that connecting with others is something that I really enjoy; that I look forward each day to sharing conversation with people to which I come in contact.

It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day. In the words of James Barrie, the author of Peter Pan: “Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.”

At this time in my life, I am blessed to have responsibilities in my church to exercise that love of people by leading discussions from talks given by our leaders.

These talks include topics such as self-reliance, forgiveness, love of the Savior, his atonement and service to others. In these discussions with the women, experiences are shared, love, joy and concern are expressed, and confidences kept.

My other responsibility is to help others to research their family history and learn the stories of their ancestors. Some of our ancestors have lived hard lives and wonder what impact they had in the world.

Through this effort, we can tell the stories to our children and grandchildren. We can learn where we came from and what those people were made of. My favorite part of the research is to uncover the experiences of those that came before. Those stories give us a sense of connection, and sometimes we get a glimpse of our similarities.

With these assignments, I pray for guidance and direction as there are some that have had difficult family lives, and others that have suffered in various ways. When in these situations, I need the Holy Spirit to work with me to assist in bringing light to others.

Again, it is listening that is the key.

I have never felt especially gifted as a woman, and many times I have negatively compared myself with my circle of friends. I am not a talented homemaker, seamstress, crafter, and not very stylish in my dress or look.

Many times, in the past I have questioned, “What do I do well?” I wondered, “What are my gifts?”

In a talk given by Elder Juan Pablo Villar, he said that it is more likely that he (God) will give us opportunities to develop those gifts rather than just granting them to us without spiritual and physical effort. If we are in tune with his spirit, we will learn to identify those opportunities, and then act upon them.

Over the years my faith in God has increased, and I have felt his hand working in my life. I realize now that the gifts for which he has blessed me are not as obvious as some, but nonetheless valuable.

As I listen to him in my prayers, and listen to others, I hope that I can further his purpose here on Earth.

For this, I am grateful.