Accepting Callings

I recently learned to crochet, and I've been having a blast taking up my newest hobby. Like many new experiences, tangled messes of good intentions finally begin to take shape into what we envisioned at the outset. Fortunately, the time it took to transcend the awkward phase where I had no control over my yarn was a brief one. I'm learning quickly, and building skills I never imagined would bring me this much satisfaction.

The timing for finding something I enjoy this much could not be better, because I also was released from my calling. Now, instead of teaching Sunday School to 14-15 year old youth, I will be serving in the Primary as a CTR 4-5 teacher. And unlike the last time I was called into Primary, I can't just move 2,000 miles across the country to avoid it.

Accepting this calling was not easy for me. Because my husband and I are still anxiously waiting for the day we'll have our first child, being around children can be a painful reminder for me. I lamented over the decision of what to do, but I also decided long ago to always accept a calling. I had a great experience as I counseled honestly with the bishopric and the Primary presidency, and they've been incredibly supportive. I feel comfortable moving forward, even knowing the emotional challenges I will face as a result.

Like learning to crochet, serving in the Primary will look and feel like a jumbled, knotted mess for me. And I don't know how long that will last. But over time, I will find my way. Things will begin to make sense, and I'll understand what to do. The same way I learned to love crocheting, I can learn to appreciate serving in Primary. In all the ways I won't be strong enough, the Lord will provide for my needs.

I decided to begin by using something I love to build a positive emotional connection to this assignment. So I began looking for LDS and Primary-inspired crochet patterns. In the Mormon crafting culture, I thought I would find some great projects to get me started. To my surprise, I didn't find anything. So, I've decided to develop my own LDS/Mormon crochet patterns, and to point out patterns I find that could be useful or applicable for members of the Church. So if you love to crochet as much as I do, stay tuned for what I have in store!

I know that God lives. I know that Jesus is the Christ. They are so very aware of our challenges and limitations. Our weaknesses are like clay in their hands. They have the power to make blessings out of all that is tragic and unfair in our lives. I know that when we are willing to press forwards in faith and patience, all things will work together for our good. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.