One of the foundational principles of Relief Society is
“Delight in Service & Good Works”.
We often receive wellness information from our insurance company.
We recently received a postcard stating:
1 in 5 ADULTS & TEENS EXPERIENCE MENTAL ILLNESS
....followed by a “How to” when it comes to supporting others, whether it’s a chronic case, or just a bad day...it’s all about ministering:
LISTEN...so they can talk through challenges, even if they don’t need solutions
VALIDATE...let them know it’s ok to feel as they do
HUG IT OUT...if appropriate, offer a hug-boosting oxytocin, a soothing hormone
BE THERE...remind them they aren’t alone & that you love, care for &
believe in them
This verse provides Christlike counsel for ministering in our various circles.
D&C 108:7-8 Therefore strengthen your {sisters} in all your CONVERSATION, in all your PRAYERS, in all your EXHORTATIONS, and in all your DOINGS. And behold, and lo, I AM WITH YOU to bless you & deliver you, forever.
I love the ways our Sheldon Ward sisters are “strengthening” each other!
THE LORD PROVIDED A FLORAL “THANK YOU”
“It's funny when you just follow promptings and don't know why.
We had a neat experience yesterday. I had the afternoon to get some things done and I felt like getting flowers to deliver to my ministering sisters. Timing just worked out perfect for when I dropped them off for her.
She happened to be home and right when her neighbor, who she has been helping out so much, was leaving to move in with his daughter. I got to give her a hug and just be there
right when it happened.”
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I love that it was like the ministering sister was delivering a thank you from the Lord,
in gratitude for that sister’s service to her neighbor, and also to fill an empty place as
that final ‘goodbye’ was happening. Amazing timing!
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“Put your trust in that spirit which leadeth to do good…” D&C 11:12
UNEXPECTED MINISTERING BLESSINGS!
“Each month I take a sister that I minister to, to the beauty salon to get hair and nails done. We may go once or twice each month and sometimes do her banking
or whatever else she wants to do. Before Covid, we would also work on family history
together and attend the temple, sometimes for literally all day....It's a huge amount of fun for both of us. We always go to lunch and talk about life and issues.
I try to be uplifting for her...
This month...for whatever reason, her son showed up at the salon...I thought it was nice and was happy that she was able to talk with him while she waited for me to finish up.
Soon I was finished and I went to pay my bill. The lady at the cash register said, "Oh no!!!! Your friend (the son) already paid for you!" I was so shocked. I had previously said no to him and would not have allowed it this time, but now the deed was done....so I decided to just enjoy the gift!...I was exceedingly grateful.
Just having this sister in my life is a very uplifting thing for me.
I love being with her and she loves being with me. So, that in and of itself is always delightful for me. I'm so thankful for this sister in my life and for all the wonderful blessings that our Heavenly Father gives to us.
I have felt in the past that ministering to this sister was a plan we made in heaven.
I'm sure we have been close for a very long time! I love her so much.
As a side note, my own mother had dementia.
It was a tough thing to go through the first time around. But I learned a lot from my experiences with mom and other elderly people. I'm grateful for those experiences as they prepared me to be a much better minister to this sweet sister.”
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I love that both sisters have this “girlfriend time” to look forward to every month!
Regular connection is still a good idea :) ...Highlighting purpose in our trials, & God’s mindfulness of us at each stage... she shares being specifically prepared, through her challenges, to serve as this sister’s minister, in this phase of her life. Wow.
And I see another witness of “eternity” when she speaks of the spirit confirming
that their connection began so long ago…..
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“Before we came [to earth] we were given certain assignments.
While we do not now remember the particulars, this does not alter the glorious reality
of what we once agreed to. (Pres. Kimball “The Role of Righteous Women”)
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Know that every effort you make, including the ‘small & simple’ phone calls or prayers-
each act of service is a success!
Thank you Sisters, for all you do to bless each other’s lives. It’s so fun to hear about the connections & friendships & service that is happening in our ward.
And I know the Lord appreciates each act of kindness!
With love & gratitude, Audrey D