Love Thy Neighbor

Recently we centered a family home evening lesson on being kind to others, and especially to our neighbors. Non members live on both sides of us, and sometimes I feel like we don't get to say hello to them as often as those who attend our church. So during the lesson, I asked the children if they could take some bread I baked that day to the neighbor next door. They did and and reported that the neighbor was delighted.

So I was completely surprised the following day when my neighbor came over and gave me these beautiful flowers as a thank you. I never wanted anything in return for a simple gesture of a loaf of bread, but it spoke volumes that she was so touched she went out and bought me flowers.

I intended the lesson to teach the children about giving. But I think I ended up learning more than they did, as I saw not only how much small acts of kindness are appreciated, but also how easy it is to make a connection with someone who lives a different lifestyle.