Sunday, April 29, 2012

Just show up

Ready for another mantra? I have loved reading yours and thinking about them. Thank you for sharing.
This one comes from a few years ago. A young man spoke in our stake conference. He was totally blind. He was so positive and inspirational. He asked, "Did you go the welfare orchard to pick peaches when your ward was assigned? If you didn't, then on that day I was better at picking peaches than you, because I showed up." Good point. Even if you're totally blind you're better than I was that day! He went on to explain that that is his motto (or mantra): Just show up! Sometimes I think we're afraid to show up. What will be expected of us? Are we equal to the challenge? I know I feel that way whether it's picking peaches, or later canning them at the cannery, or going to a Relief Society meeting alone, or helping someone move or comforting someone who is mourning, or sitting with someone who is ill- so their caregiver can have a break, , or, or. . . It's scary. Can I do it? Will I know what to say? But, if we can just show up- almost always it works out just fine. And usually it becomes a very sweet and even joyful experience. So, there's another mantra for you to consider:  Just show up!

7 comments:

Joan Morris said...

I love it! I can testify that that is so true. It is always the hardest just getting there, and then things work out. I can remember "Just show up".

Kristen Mackrory said...

Such a good one. Why is that so hard for me? I like this mantra series. Your new background is interesting. Is there a story behind it?

Pal & Hatty said...

That's a great mantra! I need to remember that when I am hesitant and shy to reach out to other people - I am always glad when I make the effort - why do I resist?

Michelle said...

I like it. And I like your backdrop. It goes perfectly with our family picture! I'll have to remember this mantra. I'm loving these mantra posts.

Pam said...

another winning mantra! I want to share a story in my life that fits this mantra when I see you. keep these mantras coming' Great food for thought!

sara cardon said...

SO TRUE!! I love this post. I always tell my class at the gym "Half the battle was getting here!" and it's so true. Once you're there, 9 times out of 10 you're glad you made it, but sometimes it just too easy to talk yourself out of doing a good thing.

Shonna said...

A great mantra. I totally agree and also w/ Sara's comment.