FHE with Grandpa Steve & Grandma Cheryl

I had an experience last week that had significant impact on my life.

Mother’s Day weekend we went to Utah County for a family function. Minutes after arriving, and with no incident or provocation at a family member’s home, John was told that he is no longer welcome at their home. The family member proceeded to walk John and Jaxon to his front door, and unkindly left them both standing on the front porch wondering what was happening.

I was downstairs unaware of the incident, and minutes later, when I found out, I was extremely embarrassed and very humiliated (for John & myself). It was a very saddening experience for us. Not only was I sad, but I was very upset and hurt by this particular event. John handled it with dignity and it did not seem to get under his skin as it did mine.

Since this event, I have thought a lot about how much it hurts to be judged, and more importantly how I have severely judged the individual who uninvited my husband in his home. Several times I have thought to myself, “How could anyone be so rude, unforgiving, and insensitive.” I have had ill feelings for this person ever since.

Last night during FHE at Steve’s we had a lesson on judgment. We read the story of Lazarus. We then read sections of a talk given in General Conference by Elder Gregory A. Schwitzer of the Seventy. I remember hearing this talk during conference, but did not quite have the impact that the “refresher” did last night.

Elder Schwitzer said, “We live in a world in which many situations require us to make judgments that are often difficult. Yet the Savior gave the commandment to “judge not” our fellowman. How can we do this and still exercise good judgment in a world full of deception and corruption?...Although the Savior asked us not to judge others, He still expects us to use excellent judgment. We may often find ourselves making quick judgments about people, which can change or redefine our relationships with them. Often incorrect judgments are made because of limited information or because we do not see beyond that which is immediately in front of us.”

I know that I have found myself in situations where I have quickly judged others and have been unforgiving, and downright rude myself. It was a learning experience for me during this lesson, and I found that I need to be the person that I know I need to be, and not worry about what others may do around me. On a lighter note, we had a wonderful Family Home Evening with Steve, Cheryl, David & their new Korean exchange student. We had a great time!

"Grandpa Steve" & Jaxon

Yep, that's right...that's Jaxon...Driving by himself. I almost had a heart attack. Steve & Cheryl kept telling me to "Chill".

John & Jaxon

Jaxon said, "Mom, you're a big chicken!"

Steve trying to teach me how to drive a 4 wheeler.

Jaxon & "Grandma Cheryl"