Joy Ride
By Julie Conway Sword of Gainesville, FL, USA
Learn of me, and listen to my words; walk in the meekness of my Spirit and you shall have peace in me. —Doctrine and Covenants 18:2n
I caused a car accident that was mostly due to my own misjudgment. I took a safe driving course which helped me focus better while driving. The challenge to my 81-year-old brain was to process information quickly. Sometimes I had trouble dealing with drivers running red lights or with oncoming traffic making abrupt left turns in front of me. Someone was trying to tell me something.
I concluded that I needed to stop driving in April. I recalled that my grandson, Sheridan, who was currently taking driver training, expected to get his driver’s license on his sixteenth birthday that same April. So I planned to give him my 1999 sedan “bomb” as a trade-in for a “cool car” of his choice.
Now after school Sheridan often calls me to ask, “Do you need a ride to the store, Grandma?” Plus, friends and people I am just getting to know volunteer to take me grocery shopping, to my book club, and to dancing lessons.
I realize I am arriving at all of my previous appointments just as before, only now my life is enriched. I have the joy of riding and visiting with family and friends who transport me. The scripture, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” prompts me to recognize that in times past, I had been on the giving side. But now, I am a “grateful receiver.” And the roads are safer!
Prayer for Peace
God of Wisdom, when we would hang on to our independence, help us examine alternatives which would benefit ourselves and others. If we can’t do tasks by ourselves, help us accept the blessings of others. Help us join with others to do the work of peace.
Spiritual Practice: Making Responsible Choices
Prayerfully seek God’s guidance in your choices. The practice of discernment invites us to orient our lives toward God and God’s vision for us and creation. Begin by reviewing the responsibilities and opportunities in the day before you. Take these choices into prayer, asking God for wisdom and insight about what matters most.
Peace Covenant
Today, God, I will try to focus on the big picture and gracefully accept help.
