Stephenson Family Ties

Either the well was very deep,
or she fell very slowly, for she
had plenty of time as she went
down to look about her and wonder
what was going to happen next.
from: Alice in Wonderland
by: Lewis Carroll

Anna still struggles with being "home."
And its difficult for her to articulate just what it is that shes feeling and why she's feeling it.
I struggle in my attempts to help.
If I try and summarize what shes feeling, I'd say its all about her not being able to find her 'place' here or her 'purpose.' She cant find importance in life as we know it- here in the 'world.' Nothing seems like it'll ever be better than the life of a missionary. NOthing!!! I've heard her say on numerable occasions, "Nothing is more important than helping people find our Savior and His gospel. Everything else seems so trivial!!"

And she's right.

In my feeble attempts to help, I say things like, "education, developing ones gifts and talents, and becoming and finding the 'perfect' mate are all worthy goals and aspirations and a good way to spend your time too. Then you are still becoming a great blessing to the world."
But of course our beloved President Kimball said it best when he spoke about how women in the Church can help the gospel be known far and wide. He acknowledged that the growth in the Church would be due in large part to the women. "It will happen to the degree that the women reflect righteousness and articulateness in their lives and to the degree that they are seen as distinct and different-in happy ways-from the women of the world. The righteous woman's strength and influence today can be tenfold what it might be in more tranquil times."
Reaching out and to others and helping and serving others is not a lame contribution to the world. As Mother Teresa said, "Let Jesus fill you with joy that you may preach without preaching."
Not having the official calling as 'missionary' is tough for our dear daughter. She still misses the life, the name tag and the Spirit as her constant companion. But...she rises each morning determined to make each day the best she can, and we are beginning to hear the rumblings of fun and exciting plans for her future!!!
Stay tuned!!!