Television and Acceptance.

Jon and David were asked to give talks in Sacrament Meeting a few weeks ago. However, they didn't give any topics. Kind of just let them choose. David's talk was on Elder Ballards article in the May 1989 Ensign, called "The Effects of Television" was an easy fit as we recently cancelled our DISH and since we get NO local chanels out here... we get fuzz and/or movies. David and I have previously had conversations where he has told me how much he likes not having tv (no really - from a 13 year old!!!) and how much other stuff he gets done, etc... It was awesome! And he said that people even came up to him and told him they were going to take his "challenge" to turn off the tv for a few hours and play a family game.

Jon's talk was on Elder Wirthlin's talk from Conference "Concern for the One". It was very eye opening (for me) when researching all these different talks for him... we are expected to be concerned for people. People who are struggling, people who are tired or weary, people who feel they are different, etc.

It reminded me of an experience I was able to witness in my ward when I was growing up. There were lots of families with lots of little kids (shocking! lol) but there was one family whose baby was crying and the mom had her hands full with the toddler and couldn't just take the baby out. The noise was becoming very distracting to everyone in the meeting. As we were all looking back and thinking "geez, why doesn't she take that kid out", there was one lady who got up and went and sat by the woman and offered to help her. She was able to keep the toddler occupied while mom took the baby out. It was a simple act of service that stuck with me - and I'm sure it meant a lot to that mom too.

Anyway, the talks went well and the 3rd speaker was actually an Elder who had just returned home a few weeks ago from the NY, NY North Mission, who talked about retention also... inspired?!?

I'm very proud of my boys!