Thanks for the Sabbath

 We entered the chapel today - greeted several people and sat down next to Emma to wait for the meeting to begin. Then I noticed Joan from across the room, all 4 and a half feet tall of her sitting upright and proud in her chair. Her eyes twinkled back at me, and I could tell she was smiling from ear to ear under her mask. This was her first day back at church!

I couldn't help myself....I rushed over, stopping short of about four feet from her. She reached out to me and took my hand and hugged it. It was the dearest gesture ever. I wanted to hug her, but the woman who was with her gave me a menacing look, so I told June I loved her and quietly tiptoed back to my chair. It would be tragic after nearly a year and a half indoors for Joan to contract the virus. She has had both vaccination shots. She is in her mid-nineties.

A few minutes before the meeting the elders walked in with Matt. He looked great in a vest and slacks with a floral shirt. He is a little taller than I, slim, with slightly curly brown hair. He has an open expression on his face when he speaks to you and a ready smile, and seems comfortable in any situation. He just seems like a very nice man. 

After the meeting, he spoke with the Bishop, and they got pretty deep pretty fast about philosophy, citing philosophers and theories. I quietly excused myself, since I could certainly add nothing to that conversation! I visited with several people, all of whom I have come to love.

Later, outside in the parking lot, surrounded by the song of a hundred birds and soaking up the glorious clear sunlight, about 20 or more of us stood visiting. Matt visited with nearly every adult, each one of whom is exceptional. A man from Samoa who just received his Master's degree in diplomatic relations, Kristen, a wife and mother of four who is studying for a doctorate, while her husband is working virtually for a company in California, a wonderful family from India who are faith-filled and faithful.

I don't know if he has had all his questions answered as yet, but he has gotten a good start. He will work with the missionaries this week.

And speaking of the missionaries, the two elders and the two sisters, and Emma came for dinner. We had chicken cordon bleu. It was a recipe I got from another senior sister. It was good, SK said. For dessert, we had a chocolate birthday cake that I had made for Emma...her birthday was yesterday. We all sang to her.




After we were all filled to the brim, we sat around the table working at calligraphy. They have all expressed an interest in learning it, so I got them each a pen and printed up some papers, and we spent a couple of hours at it. They are doing great!

I have loved this day.

The pitter patter of rain accompanies my keyboard clicks, and is soothing me to sleep. I guess I had better retire.

Comments

Lia said…
I wish I could have been there with you, writing away with calligraphy pens!
July 13, 2021 at 5:03 AM
melissa said…
What a beautiful Sunday.
July 16, 2021 at 10:54 PM
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