For some reason, they're just not content to be retired.
Sleeping in late, catching a movie in the middle of the day because-you-can, vacationing and having plenty of time on their hands just wasn't their thing.
We protested a little when they mentioned that they would like to serve another mission.
After all, they had only been home from the Congo for a year. We assured them that there is a lot of good they could be doing right here.
Stay home.
Enjoy retired life.
Rest a bit.
Travel!
Work at the temple.
Volunteer in the community.
"Theses are great things to do!" we pleaded.
They didn't buy our story.
"It's not the same," they said gently.
So, with tears in their eyes and smiles on their faces, they packed a few suitcases, kissed us on our cheeks, reminded us to take care of each other and headed back to Africa.
I cried the whole day.
I thought about all the things I will miss.
So many little things, like working in the yard together on a summer morning.
Grandpa's voice leading the cheering section at a baseball game.
Rachel turning down an invitation with friends to hang out with Grandma.
It's the world's best barbeque.
An ice cream, a push on the swing or a game of H-O-R-S-E with grandma.
It's the hugs, the kisses, the words of encouragement.
It's the evening talks on the back porch and sitting together at church.
Nothing too spectacular at first glance but when you weave all those moments together, it is like creating an unbreakable cord that binds us together.
I will miss that.
I will miss them.
Some folks probably scratch their heads and wonder why Grandma and Grandpa would give up the comforts of home and family, why they would travel to a distant country to live among a people so different from themselves, why they would work harder than they have ever worked and do all of this at their own expense.
The answer is simple....
Because they love Jesus Christ.
They know Him, they trust Him, they believe Him.
They know that by serving others, they serve Him.
The people of Uganda need them.
And to become who they want to be, they need the people of Uganda.
So, we say goodbye for a time.
We keep our chins up and work on being more like them.
We follow their adventures and pray faithfully for their safety and success.
When we look next door and start to feel sad, we think about clean water for the thirsty, eye sight for the blind, newborn babies saved, wheelchairs for those who can't walk and most of all...
Grandparents who love the Lord.
Click on the video below to see how they are changing the world...
one Child of God at a time.
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To learn more about the Humanitarian Program of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints click here.
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2 comments:
What a wonderful tribute to two wonderful people! We really miss them also. They have become such dear friends! They are truly amazing with what they accomplish. What great examples they are. Thanks for writing such a touching post!
They are two wonderful people who are amazing examples. I look forward to hearing how they are helping people in unfortunate circumstances. Their service is inspiring. They are awesome!!
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