People Are What Matters

I think most people have a place or two that feels like home away from home. You know that place where you can close your eyes and imagine what it looks like, how to get around, the routine, and the comfortable feeling when there? What are your homes away from home? Mine is Disneyland, Primary Children's Hospital, and any LDS Temple. Saturday a wonderful family we met several weeks ago made an appointment for us to join them at the Seattle Temple. Ashtyn woke up feeling horrible from chemotherapy. I woke up really wanting to get tasks done that had been neglected for far too long. We had to unenthusiastically make the decision to go, remembering what we know. 1. When there's something beneficial to do but we really don't want to do it, bite the bullet and do it. Not once have we regretted that decision. 2. People are always more important than any task. When there's an opportunity to interact with someone, drop the task every time. The to-do list will always be there but the chance to affect and be affected by that person will be gone. With those thoughts in mind, Ashtyn and I got ready and headed to the temple. We were 20 minutes late, walked into the temple, and saw Sarah who arranged the entire thing. Her smile was huge and her hug was warm. Lucy, who is the same age as Ashtyn, was dressed and ready to do baptisms. Her dad John was also there. Ashtyn has a central line that can't get wet so she sat on the bench and watched. After 30 minutes they were ready for the confirmations. We joined them in a room where Ashtyn sat on a chair and was confirmed for over 10 people. After being in the temple for one hour, we walked out with such gratitude for Sarah, John, and Lucy who were so thoughtful to invite us, giving us a chance to go to one of our homes away from home. I'm understanding more and more that everyone has a part to play in others lives. It's important to pay attention and act on feelings and thoughts because when opportunities are missed, no one can take your place. From outward acts to anonymous prayers and thoughts, thank you for making a difference in my life.