Perspective

During these difficult economic times we hear of many who are struggling. My family has been blessed to overcome many of the difficulties facing families these days and are grateful for that. However, after reading a talk by LDS leader Dieter F. Uchtdorf I am reminded that even these economic times could be worse.

He relates his own experiences as a refugee near Frankfurt, Germany. His family were refugees for the second time in only a few years, and they lived in the attic of a farmhouse. They shared a bedroom and had one other small room. His parents were forced to do menial labor far beneath their abilities, but they did it to support their family. In fact, they got the whole family involved in the work, which President Uchtdorf says helped them from dwelling too much on the difficulties of their circumstances. What perspective! No bitterness for his childhood being "stolen" from him. No anger toward the kids who made fun of his East German accent. No, just appreciation for the personal growth and family bonds that were created.

I love how he talks about the importance of work and how "Work is an antidote for anxiety, an ointment for sorrow, and a doorway to possibility." He assures us that if our wagon gets stuck in the mud, God is much more likely to assist us if we get out of the wagon to push rather than just sit and merely raise our voice in prayer -- no matter how eloquent the oration.

So, as a mom I was thinking about this and wondering really if I "work" enough. He dispelled the thought almost as quickly as it came into my mind. "The righteous work we do within the walls of our homes is most sacred; its benefits are eternal in nature. It cannot be delegated," he said.

I am so grateful for church leaders who are so wise and caring. They are wise not only because of their life experiences and ages, but because they seek and gain wisdom from a loving, caring Heavenly Father. I hope and pray I will be able to give more fully to righteous work -- especially that within my own family.