Introduction: My mom is kinda wild. She's a blast, but sometimes needs little reminders to remain calm.
Last week was our first Sunday in our new ward. I was nervous. I've never had a calling and I get pretty terrified around new people. So, before church I kept telling Casey he better keep it low and mellow. All week before church I'd say "low and mellow! Don't draw attention to us!"
For church, Casey wore black pants and a black sweater. MOST of my shoes are still at my parents so I wore a maxi skirt and gold sparkle Toms. Casey is certain this is what drew attention to us- my gold slippers. We were in the class for less then 2 minutes. We sat down and the conducting sister stood to introduce the lesson. She said, "it looks like we have some visitors and new people. Who are you?" and pointed right to us. So much for low and mellow.
Before the end of church meetings we met at least 7 families. They had each all learned all about us- names, jobs, phone numbers, social security number (not really on that one but man I felt known). We had met the Bishop- all during that last meeting he watched us intently. He was tickled pink for our arrival.
(Disclaimer:We felt so welcome. I really really love our ward. I just was nervous. They are so happy, friendly, positive and welcoming and we truly lucked out because I know it will be amazing. )
Fast forward to today. Less nervous, but still anxious. What was going to happen this week. The first hour Casey and I go to different classes. I went to Relief Society. I loved the lesson! At the end, they asked me to stand up and share facts about myself. Then the President took me and got me a manual and program so I could keep up with class. She also asked if I would participate in visiting teaching. I said yes. I'm way excited about it.
As I walked out of class, Casey came bouncing down the hall to greet me. Oh no, what happened in Priesthood? Sure enough, Casey had to stand and fact tell, AND had set up a meeting for us immediately following the three hour church block.
In our next class, we were asked to give the prayers- opening and closing.
(Disclaimer #2: Anxiety Attack. I don't like giving prayers. I don't think I'm good at them. I always miss something. )
As soon as they asked I said yes of course with no hesitation. That's not Kalli- like at all. I made Case do opening. And that was a poor idea because then I had to be scared all class long! The only dilemma was my leg was asleep upon class completion and I stumbled a little on my way up to the front. :)
We stood up in the next meeting as well. It's awkward. Everyone knows us, I don't remember most of them. I'm meeting too many way too fast.
Then we had our meeting. It was good. We were asked more get to know you questions and...oh yeah, asked to speak NEXT WEEK!
I have NEVER spoke in church. EVER. I said yes right away again. What is going on with me?!
Then I realized, as much as I joked about "low and mellow" I don't want to be low and mellow. I love church, the gospel and my Heavenly Father and I want people to know that. I want to be an example for others around me and my future children.
So, talk in church. I've got this. Because I don't have to do it alone. I have back up from the one that knows me very best, my father in heaven and I'm so grateful for that. I'm so blessed and I want to shout about how blessed and loved I feel all the time. Because I know I've never been alone or forgotten and I know how loved I am. And I'm so thankful I have the opportunity to share the love I feel with others. And I'm grateful I am able to do so.
It'll be fun.
PS- we are topic-less. we get to pick. If you think of something, tell me now!
