Small and Simple Things

In the Book of Mormon, through the prophet Alma, the Lord teaches us that "by small and simple things, great things are brought to pass (BOM Alma 37:6).

I whole-heartedly believe that statement. Two recent experiences I had illustrate why.

The Tea

A couple of weeks ago, I had a cold and was feeling pretty miserable. I don't like going to the doctor so I was doing everything I could to take care of myself, including drinking lots of herbal tea. I have a mug that I use most of the time and in doing so, I've laid de facto claim on it. I mean, it has my lip prints all over it so surely my wife and kids know it's mine, right?

Well, at the same time I was sick, some of my children were sick as well, so there were several of us making and drinking the herbal tea. One morning, much to my chagrin, I came down and found "my mug" was being used by someone else. I was a little put out that I had to find a different mug. It was a petty feeling, I know, and I knew at the time that it was silly to let it bother me. Still, it did.

A short while later my thirteen-year-old daughter came into the kitchen.

"Hi Dad. Did you get your tea?"

"What tea?"

"The tea I made you. I saw your empty cup earlier and new you weren't feeling well so I made some for you so you wouldn't need to make it."

My heart melted within me and I felt truly ashamed for the shallow feelings I'd had just a few minutes before. I embraced her.

"Thank you sweetheart! That was very kind. I really appreciate it. You made my day. I love you."

"You're welcome Dad. I love you too."

I came away feeling sincerely grateful for that simple act of kindness.

The Glasses

The second experience came just yesterday.

I had to leave early from my home drive to a meeting nearly four hours away. I had everything ready to go the night before, or so I thought. When I came downstairs to leave, I realized I didn't have my glasses--I can see well enough to drive without them, but it is more challenging, especially in the dark. I looked in the usual places and couldn't find them. I went back upstairs, using my cell phone as a flashlight as I tried not to disturb my wife. No luck.

As I came back downstairs, I was resigned to driving with out them when the thought came, did you pray? I hadn't. I said a prayer and no sooner had I finished then I remembered where they were. I walked right too them.

My heart swelled with gratitude as I contemplated the fact the Heavenly Father, with all He has to do, sent me the reminder that He is aware of me, even in the small matters of lost glasses. That simple act of kindness from a loving Father lifted me all day yesterday and is still carrying me today.

I Know

I know God lives and that He loves us. I know that simple acts of kindness can and do make a difference in our lives. I know that what Alma taught was true.

An Invitation

I invite you to look for opportunities to do a simple acts of kindness and experience the positive effects it can have on both you and those you serve.

Author

Randy McNeely is a father of five, an aspiring author as well as a singer/songwriter. He has written several patriotic songs, children’s songs and multiple religious hymns, including Oh Jesus, Savior of Mankind, which won a Special Recognition award in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 2008 Music Submission contest.