Dear Bishop: You Eased My Fears
Dear Bishop,
I felt like we were just getting started down a path of healing, when my husband got a new job and we were going to move. The level of anxiety I felt over changing Bishops and wards was overwhelming and I couldn't express that to anyone. Not even my closest friends understood why I cried uncontrollably when I spoke of moving. But you did. You eased my fears, spoke to my soon-to-be Bishop, and offered me a priesthood blessing that has sustained me. Bishop, although we didn't discover the root of my problem together, you taught me the importance of staying close to the Lord until I did. I appreciate you; more than you'll ever know.
I made a choice that I was sure would withdraw the Holy Ghost permanently from my life. Despite taking accountability for what I had done, I remained angry and cynical. I wasn't sure I fit in the realm of the church anymore, or that restitution was going to be worth it. I knew a disciplinary council was inevitable, but you didn't seem to be in a rush. I'll always remember our meeting when you told me you recognized a need for me to have opportunities to feel the Spirit. I was encouraged to meet with you regularly and without shame. You always opened the scriptures during our visits inviting a rich, beautiful spirit to fill the room. I never wanted to leave your office. I left our visits refreshed and full of hope! I would pray for that spirit to remain with me; oh how I prayed!! I invited my visiting teachers and the missionaries to come over anytime and hoped they'd share a message just so I could keep feeling that spirit. Week by week you seemed to say exactly what was on my mind. It blew me away. I gained a testimony of Bishop's by knowing you. I know you were called of God, and that you aspired to truly receive inspiration on my behalf. I thank you, so much.
I felt like we were just getting started down a path of healing, when my husband got a new job and we were going to move. The level of anxiety I felt over changing Bishops and wards was overwhelming and I couldn't express that to anyone. Not even my closest friends understood why I cried uncontrollably when I spoke of moving. But you did. You eased my fears, spoke to my soon-to-be Bishop, and offered me a priesthood blessing that has sustained me. Bishop, although we didn't discover the root of my problem together, you taught me the importance of staying close to the Lord until I did. I appreciate you; more than you'll ever know.
A Beautiful Daughter of God
A contributed post in response to A Call For Input: Dear Bishop Letters.
A contributed post in response to A Call For Input: Dear Bishop Letters.
What a blessing to have a Bishop like this. Thanks for sharing your journey, ups and downs, with us. Love you.
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