Do more than is expected... and then some (cont'd)

Lesson No 13
Learn to serve —
"One of the most beautiful compensations in life is that no person can help another without helping themselves."
— Ralph Waldo Emerson

I love that quote. I have found that to be so true because when we loose ourselves, our own problems seem to be alleviated and suddenly our stature becomes different. Burdens are individual stumbling blocks that have been placed on our path that we may learn to use our talents and all that was given us that we may be able to push ourselves in order to discover our hidden talents and source of strength.

Early in life I have learned that if I was to live a productive life I should learn to give back to people around me. Now as a child, those were lessons that really molded my life and helped me become a very rounded individual.

My favorite scripture on the subject comes from King Benjamin who counsels everyone who hears his voice to serve their heavenly King. That scripture is found in Mosiah 2:17 in the Book of Mormon.

"And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn ^awisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the ^bservice of your ^cfellow beings ye are only in the service of your God."

What a glorious thing to know that when we are serving others we become the helping hands of God. That thought alone brings a smile to my face. I can recall times in my life when answers to my prayers came in the form of someone giving me a hand at the most unexpected times when no one even knew of my own personal trials but my Father in Heaven. He promised us that he would take care of us and he has never broken his promise.

By serving others, we rid ourselves of our selfish thoughts and learn to humble ourselves in front of our maker. It is quite humbling sometimes to help someone in need as it helps us realize how blessed we are to have all that we do. Lets us impart of our substance and really understand the wealth that we have been given. May we be able blessed enough to find people to serve, that we may learn the value of life and the lesson that God wants to teach us.