"Jesus loved everyone...so we should too".

Today in Church, we had testimony meeting. I always love the first Sunday of the month because I get to hear cool stories, beliefs, and anecdotes. I always end up crying at some sweet story that someone has shared, or inspired by the kindness and sincerity of another. 

One of the missionaries got up to bear his testimony and it was simple, but complete perfection. He spoke about being from a small town in Idaho. He said that one of the things that he loves about this area is that we are all extremely close. I loved that because he is from a small town, but he was still able to get that feel here, even though he is only a few miles from D.C. He was so grateful for how much the members of my ward love each other and how we reach out to help everyone. Then, he simply ended his testimony by saying that he loves being a missionary and getting to love others because "Jesus loved everyone, so we should too!" 

How basic, but often forgotten is that? I feel like soooo many people have attitudes and think they are the best thing since sliced bread. They look at others that do not have the same expensive clothes that they do, or are not as attractive as they are and they instantly become snooty. I HATE this so much because we are all people. We all have our gifts and abilities and contribute to the world in some way. 

There is a girl that I have been friends with at Church since I was seven. Her name is Andrea and she is severely handicapped. She is beautiful. She is the sweetest, happiest girl I have ever known. Growing up, I noticed that she was different, but I was never afraid of her. I was glad to call her my friend and sit next to her. 

As we got older, I noticed that others sometimes were not as quick to include her. They were not intentionally rude to her, but they did not understand that their actions made her feel less important, less loved. Andrea is very affectionate and loves to give hugs and hold your hand. I would watch as she would try to make contact with other kids and my heart would hurt as I saw her rejected. 

Let me just tell you all something. I cannot stand when I see anyone ostracized, especially someone with a handicap. My blood literally boils. 

In High School, I was a Peer Tutor to a disabled child in my school. Once a week, we would get together and do an activity together. We went to the mall, watched movies, and played with legos :) 

I like to think of it this way: God gave handicaps to people that were strong enough, brave enough, and spiritual enough to handle them. He does not love Andrea any less than he loves me. She is perfect to him and you better believe that she is loved.

On my first Sunday in my ward since I arrived home from College, Andrea spotted me. She jumped up and came running towards me saying "Ash-wee, ash-wee". We hugged and it was just like we were kids again. Of course, a part of me aches for her and for her parents. We are both 20 now, but mentally and emotionally, Andrea is no older than 5. She will never get married, have children, or be able to live on her own. 

Her mother watched us in awe as we talked. She told me that every now and then, Andrea mentions me. You see, Andrea can speak, but it is not very clear. Somehow, I have always been able to understand her and translate. It has never been an issue. I cannot tell you how loved I felt that even though she has not seen me for about 5 years...she still remembers me. That is what friendship is. That is what love is.

I am not perfect....by anyyyyy means, but I am working on it. One of my main goals in life is to love and help others. We are all human and we all want to be loved. 

Quote of the Day

Let's all love each other and be kind! Life is too short and guilt lasts too long. We will definitely regret those that we hurt, or those that we neglected. I love you all and hope that you have a fantastic week!