Warm Fuzzies

One of the most memorable talks from this past General Conference was President Monson's on service, entitled "What Have I Done for Someone Today?" He shared how Saints all over the world answered his birthday wish for us to serve others, including one Primary who filled a jar with warm fuzzies for every act of service they did.

Service is an enormous part of being a Saint. At baptism we covenant to "bear one another's burdens, that they may be light" (Mosiah 18:8). In the temple we covenant to give all our time, talents, and blessings in building up the kingdom of God, whether that be through Church callings, missionary work, humanitarian aid, or random acts of kindness. Throughout the scriptures we are counseled to bless others in whatever way we can. President Monson bluntly said in regard to this commandment, "I believe the Savior is telling us that unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives."

However, we usually do not give priority to service. "I am confident," continued President Monson, "it is the intention of each member of the Church to serve and help those in need. . . . How many times has your heart been touched as you have witnessed the need of another? How often have you intended to be the one to help? And yet how often has day-to-day living interfered and you've left it for others to help, feeling that, 'oh, surely someone will take care of that need.'

"We become so caught up in the busyness of our lives. Were we to step back, however, and take a good look at what we're doing, we may find that we have immersed ourselves in the 'thick of thin things.' In other words, too often we spend most of our time taking care of the things which do not really matter much at all in the grand scheme of things, neglecting those more important causes."

Service does not have to be hours of volunteer work or large projects. In fact, most of the examples President Monson shared were simple, loving acts: doing chores, visiting the lonely, showing affection, going to the temple, etc.

Look around you; there are numerous opportunities to spread warm fuzzies. Always be aware and act upon what you see and feel to make someone's burden light. And in doing so, you will not only brighten someone's day and make President Monson happy, but you will also "grow and flourish--and in effect save [your life]."

Challenge: Next time a service opportunity arises, don't delay or ignore it. Just do it!