Let me tell you about one of my daughter’s Primary teachers from a few years ago.
She would drive by our home every week and drop off a scripture activity.
She would say “hi” to my daughter at church.
She remembered every detail of their conversations.
She was the BEST.
And my daughter loved her!
Later, I learned that this teacher had served in many notable leadership callings in the church throughout her life.
Now, with her calling as a teacher to a group of three-year-old kids…
She planted herself.
She blessed the lives of so many people, including my own and my daughter’s.
I’ve been planted in a lot of places in my life.
I’ve been in different locations, wards, callings, jobs, friend groups, and schools.
Sometimes, it’s hard to be planted or “all-in” when I’m in a circumstance I don’t really enjoy.
I just think about what I’m missing, or how I know things could be better.
But I love that when the Lord told a few different families to move from Ohio to Missouri permanently, He said:
“And thus let those of whom I have spoken be planted in the land of Zion.” (D&C 57:14)
He didn’t want them looking backward, wondering when this would end.
He didn’t want them being envious of those who got to stay behind.
He just wanted them to be planted where they were.
When I put my roots down in whatever situation I may be in and decide to truly “plant” myself, I feel so much more peace, calm, and happiness.
But looking at my daughter’s Primary teacher has given me a new perspective on this, too:
When we plant ourselves well and embrace our current environment, we can better serve and love the people around us.
We plant our roots “all-in” where we are, bloom where we are planted, and help the other flowers grow, too.
“Whatever your calling, I urge you to see it as an opportunity not only to strengthen and bless others but also to become what Heavenly Father wants you to become.” – Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
4 Responses
Love, love, love this!! I have been planted in Primary for years! I adore the children and the wonderful insights they share with me and my teaching partner. This is my partner’s first calling in Primary. She always says, “ I had no idea what I was missing out on!!”
Primary is so special to be a part of!
This lesson blurb really hit home as I teach my grandkids to garden, learning the different parts of plants, how things sprout from seeds, grow, bloom, produce the fruits. Then, to teach that these must be nurtured and protected; protect them from insects, dogs trampling young plants or digging up seeds, drought, too much sun, weeds. We may live in this location throughout the growing season, or we may not. Regardless, we have made a difference in learning and leaving something living behind for others.
I love this! Thanks for sharing!