I have a family friend that lives here in Rexburg. They are the Conrad family. When we lived in Seattle they were in our ward. Sister Conrad was diagnosed several years ago with MS, and over time it has taken a heavy toll on her. Brother Conrad works during the day and the kids are off at school, so most of the time she just sits at home alone. She rarely leaves the house and often is too weak to attend church. Yet when I would visit or call this semester, you'd think she was the happiest woman in the world.
My speaking service entailed serving the Conrad family, helping ease the pressures a little of their situation. I could see that Sister Conrad benefitted by having me to talk with her when no one else was home or if she was particularly discouraged that day. We would talk about her mission that she served in the '90's, her kids that were in high school, her oldest as he served a mission, and the different things that were happening in both of our lives. I noticed that I spoke only positive things with her and her family, which came naturally. One time, my fiance and I went over on a Sunday afternoon and made the family a spaghetti dinner and dessert.
I am grateful for the Conrad's because doing the speaking service with them has taught me of the happiness there is in lifting up another with words. I have also been able to experience some of the joy I had as a missionary by a warm message to those in need of hope, like Sister Conrad. Being able to serve them in this way has been a blessing in my life, and I know that it has been a blessing for them as well.
