They Brushed Their Teeth and Went on a Mission

Shortly after Patty and Hal left on their last mission (they've served three together) to Germany, they graciously allowed me to stay in their home while I attended BYU Education Week.  When I went in their bathroom, what I saw made me stop short and brought tears to my eyes.  There, hanging on the edge of their sink were their toothbrushes.  The thought came, "They brushed their teeth, then went on a mission."  At the time, we were contemplating and beginning to prepare to serve a mission.  I was overwhelmed at the thought and really not sure if I could do it.  Something about seeing those toothbrushes on the sink that had been tapped and left really touched me.  It's not that hard.  You just brush your teeth and go.  Somehow that gave me courage to go forth with my own plans for a mission.  It was a hard journey- getting ready.  Satan was there at every corner and curve, putting difficulties and road blocks in the way.  At times I would despair, but then I would think of those toothbrushes and I would soldier on.  Patty and Hal's example, and their toothbrushes, gave me courage.  I've had a lot of challenging callings in my life, but never, until this one, have I felt completely overwhelmed with a calling.  This one brought me to my knees.  But those little toothbrushes really helped me. You can do it, Kay.  Just brush your teeth and go.

On the morning we left, I too brushed my teeth, tapped the brush, and left it to dry.  Then I remembered.  I had to go and get the camera and take a picture.  I too brushed my teeth and went on a mission.  Thank you, Patty and Hal!