Tag Archive for: friends

Past Blessings, Future Promises

Last week we had two of our missionaries from our time in Belgium and the Netherlands come and visit with us.
Joey de Sousa from Chorley and Lucas Montoya from San Antonio Texas served together in Arnhem four years ago. It meant a lot to have them come and spend time with us – it was such a joy!
Lucas stayed with us for a few days and was able to visit Edinburgh, Pitlochry, and Stirling while he was here.
Whenever missionaries visit, the conversation often turns to our memories of our time together.
We talk about people we visited with, experiences we had together, and moments that shaped us. I think it’s quite natural to look back and think those were the best times.
But a thought kept coming to me: in the gospel, the best times are not only behind us. With the Lord, the best years are 𝒂𝒍𝒘𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒂𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒅.

Looking Forward

I know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is all about progression.
The Lord is always inviting us forward, helping us grow, refine, and become more than we are today.
No matter our age or stage of life, there is still more joy to feel, more people to bless, and more that the Lord can do with us.
I was reminded of the promise in the Book of Mormon, in Ether 12:4 : “Whoso believeth in God might with surety hope for a better world… which hope cometh of faith.”
That promise applies to all of us. The Lord is not finished with any of us yet.
Some of our sweetest experiences in the gospel will undoubtedly still be ahead.
So maybe a good question for us to reflect on is simply this: Are we looking forward with faith as much as we look back with gratitude?
I’m so grateful for the wonderful memories the Lord has given us, and I have faith that as we continue to follow Him, He still has many good things prepared for us to come.

One Step at a Time

On a New Years Day trip to Glasgow, we enjoyed taking our grandson out for a while.
It was a chilly one, but we all got dressed as warmly as we could.
We headed towards the park and had some fun there.
At one point, he walked towards the steps and Monic said “just let him go, he loves steps.”
And off he went.
He has only been walking a few weeks, so I watched with interest how he’d master 4 flights of stairs.

Stepping Up

Step by step, he’d pull himself up, one by one.
He was frequently distracted by small pebbles, and he’d stop and try and pick one up, but with his winter gloves on that proved tricky for him.
I was behind him the whole time, to support and steady him on his big adventure, ready to step in if needed.
And every now and again, he looked around just to make sure that I was there.
Making it to the top seemed to me that it was a long way for him to go.
It proved to be a little too much and I helped him complete his journey in his time of need.

Help on Hand

Reflecting this morning, I am so grateful for all who have been there for me in my time of need.
Sometimes as we set out on life’s big adventure, unexpected challenges, difficulties and distractions can arise that can test us in many ways, temporally, emotionally, physically and spiritually.
Adversity is often the refining fire that can strengthen us in so many ways, including our faith.
Rarely by removing the challenge, but by reminding us that we are not alone in it.
Looking back, I can see how often help has come at just the right moment for me.
Through family. Through friends. Through quiet acts of kindness and timely reassurance.
And, at times, through the unseen watchful care of a loving Heavenly Father.
“I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders… that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions.” – Mosiah 24:14
As a new year begins, I’m grateful not just for the journeys we are invited to take, but for the help we are given along the way.
I am thankful too for the gentle reminder that when the climb becomes too much, there is always Someone close by, ready to steady us and help us home.
Who has helped steady you along the way?

Full Hearts

We’ve had the sweetest few days with some of our returned missionaries visiting us here in Scotland.
A surprise visit at church on Sunday from Pedro Jalo and his family was a real joy!
There’s just something special about picking up right where you left off, swapping stories, laughing over old memories, and making new ones.
Monday was busy with a trip to the Wallace Monument, followed by a picnic in Dollar, and then a walk up to Castle Campbell through the Glen.
Afterwards we topped it off with a short visit to Culross and dinner at the Red Lion.
Our hearts are full.
There’s just nothing quite like time shared with dear ones who are, in every way that matters, our family.

Surprise!

Last week, whilst I was in London, brought a beautiful and unexpected moment, that I won’t forget.

While attending meetings on the third floor of the Hyde Park Chapel, busy planning this year’s Light the World Christmas campaigns, I heard some news of some unexpected visitors downstairs.

Someone mentioned that the BYU ballet group were rehearsing in the cultural hall.

I knew Emma Bair, one of our former missionaries from our time in Belgium and the Netherlands, was part of that group.

We had already made some plans weeks before, to meet for lunch the next day in Bayswater, but I couldn’t resist the chance to surprise her early.

I quietly went down to the hall.

And sure enough, there was Emma, completely unaware I was just outside in the foyer.

I introduced myself to one of her supervisors, and we hatched a plan: I’d return in an hour, just as practice ended, and surprise her.

An hour later, I came back.

What followed was one of those rare, joy-filled reunions.

The look on her face when she saw me was priceless.

We hugged, laughed, and even shed a few happy tears.

It was a beautiful tender reminder of the lifelong bonds we’d formed in our missionary service together.

The next day’s lunch was even sweeter for it.

Sitting in Bayswater, catching up on Emma’s journey and everything she’s doing now, felt like a continuation of all of our joyful moments together.

There’s something truly special about reconnecting with those we’ve served alongside.

Their stories continue to inspire me, and Emma’s certainly did.

Happy Birthday Emma!🎊🎉🍰

Have you ever had a surprise reunion that filled your heart?

Haste Ye Back

Over the past few days, our home has been full with visitors.
Last Wednesday and Thursday, we had the absolute joy of hosting seven of our returned missionaries from the Belgium Netherlands Mission.
Adam, Alex, Logan, Landon, Luk, Sam and Trent, came to visit not just as guests but as part of our mission family.
On Wednesday, we walked the paths of Dunfermline, fed squirrels in the park, met the peacocks (thank you Tina and Alex), and learned a lot about Andrew Carnegie.
But the real joy wasn’t just in what we saw, it was more about just being together again.
On Thursday, we explored Edinburgh.
We climbed Arthur’s Seat, walked the Royal Mile, visited St. Giles Cathedral, and learned about the Order of the Thistle.
We laughed over lunch, soaked in the sights from the Castle, wandered through the Grassmarket, and ended the day the way any proper visit should: with fish and chips and a deep-fried Mars bar!
But here’s the thing that’s been on my mind most since they left: missionary service might have an official end date, but the bonds created will never end.
“Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” – Matthew 18:20

Service

As we walked side by side through cobbled streets, it hit me, that our friendships were built on faith, service, and sacrifice.
They were forged in the quiet moments of testimony, in praying together, in days sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ and serving others.
They left for home on Friday, to their studies, summer jobs and families, yet I want to witness that the spirit they carried as missionaries still shines through.
Their name tags may be gone, but who they became as missionaries hasn’t faded.

Connections

Having them here reminded me that the impact of missionary work isn’t just about the service they rendered in Belgium and the Netherlands, it’s about the deep, lasting connections formed along the way.
As we laughed and reminisced, not as missionaries with schedules, but simply as members of our extended family, we rediscovered a deeper, powerful connection.
One rooted in shared purpose, made richer by our unhurried time, of just being together.
Their footsteps echo with us now, not just in the places we visited, but in our hearts.
And for that, Monic and I are so grateful.
Who in your life has left spiritual footprints you still feel today?

Big Ben and Breakfast

Catching up with dear friends within 24 hours was almost too much to handle this week, when I was down in London on business.
If one of our Belgium Netherlands missionaries is in town, you better believe we’ll drop everything to make a visit happen!
On Tuesday I saw Ashlynn Lybbert Thomas post on social media that she had just arrived in town with her husband Carter.
I reached out and we were able to meet up briefly late afternoon at the foot of Big Ben.
It was such fun to catch up even if it was for only 20 minutes.
Then on Wednesday morning I had delicious breakfast with Gage Norton at the Dishoom Indian Restaurant in Kensington.
If ever you want a delicious breakfast in town – that place comes with our highest recommendation!
Being able to catch up with all the news of two of our returned missionaries who were in London for just a few days was really special.
It meant a lot to reconnect, even for just a short time.
These quick visits reminded me how meaningful it is to stay in touch with people who’ve shared in some of the most important parts of your life.
I’m really grateful for these special brief moments, even in the middle of a hectic week!
Who’s someone you’d love to bump into again this weekend?

When Angels Meet Again

On Saturday evening, I had the opportunity of witnessing something quietly sacred.
I had taken my mum, to a fireside/devotional in Perth.
As we arrived, she spotted the familiar face of a dear old friend, Anne Crook — and, in a moment that felt suspended in time, they gently embraced.
It had been some time since they’d last met, yet the years just seemed to melt away.
Their smiles widened, their voices softened, and they simply 𝒘𝒆𝒓𝒆.
I sat next to them.
Watching them was like watching and listening to two angels.

Together

Two lifelong friends caught up in each other’s presence, laughing, reminiscing, and sharing their news, as if no time had passed at all.
Their friendship reaches all the way back to the early 1960s when, as younger women, they found the restored gospel in Dunfermline and Perth respectively.
Not long after, they served together in the District Primary Presidency, quietly shaping young lives with faith and love.
“…they did walk after the commandments which they had received… and they did love one another.” 4 Nephi 1:15
Decades may have come and gone, but their bond, rooted in shared testimony and service, remains unshakable.
Both lost their husband’s, some years ago.
Gentle. Humble. Enduring. Radiating love.
There was no need for any grandeur or noise.
No spotlight.
Just a quiet sweetness, two women of great faith, simply being together.
For me, it was a holy moment and a privilege to sit with them.
In their warmth, I was reminded of those things that matter most, the beauty of enduring friendships, of lives lived in service, sacred covenants and of the quiet strength of discipleship.
Sometimes, the most powerful moments are the stillest ones.
Who are the quiet angels in your life, the ones who have walked beside you through the years?

Are you following me?

My dear friend, Paul and I have a few things in common…
We were both born and raised in Dunfermline.
We both got married to someone from abroad.
We both have three children.
We both work in learning and development.
We both served in the England London Mission of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 
We both served as Bishop of the Dunfermline Ward.
We both served as President of the Dundee Scotland Stake, me 2005 – 2014 and Paul currently.

Chance Encounters

And if the last few Saturday mornings are anything to go by, we both enjoy walking to fulfil our church Ministering assignments at the very same time!
As we’ve crossed paths in virtually the same spot these last few weeks, it’s become a bit of a running joke.
“𝒀𝒐𝒖 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏? 𝑨𝒓𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒆, 𝒐𝒓 𝒂𝒎 𝑰 𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖?”
These chance encounters have added a touch of humour and a smile to our faces in our shared commitment to serve others.
Whilst he is heading north, I am heading south!
Ministering has always held a special place in both of our hearts.
There’s something deeply rewarding about reaching out to others, offering a listening ear, a kind word, or simply letting someone know they’re remembered and loved.
It’s not just a duty; it’s a privilege – a way to follow the Saviour’s example of service and compassion.
We both share a passion for this work.
Even now, as it is his turn to carry the mantle of Stake President, his dedication to these simple but significant acts of care is inspiring.
We both know that real joy in ministering comes not from grand gestures, but from consistent, small acts of love and service.
And yet, life has a way of adding a touch of humour to even the most heartfelt endeavours.
It’s a light-hearted reminder that ministering doesn’t have to be stiff or overly formal, it’s about connection, warmth, and even a good laugh along the way.
As I reflect on these moments, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for Paul, for his leadership, friendship, and example.
Serving alongside him in this way reminds me that ministering is more than a responsibility; it’s a joyful journey we share together, one visit at a time.
What small acts of love and service have brought a smile to your face lately?

Warm Hearts, Cold Days.

Weeks in the planning, Raymond, Paul, Mike, and I set off for the temple in Preston last Tuesday, for three days away together.
It was a journey that proved to be both heartwarming and nostalgic, taking us down memory lane to recall much simpler times of a bygone era.
The trip had its roots in an initial conversation between Raymond and me several weeks ago.
What began as a casual chat, eventually grew into a plan, culminating in our journey this week.
For Raymond, it had been several years since he was last able to visit the temple, between covid times and health challenges keeping him away.

Planning & Logistics

After lengthy discussions with staff at his care home and with other family members, we were delighted to receive the green light to proceed.
However, the logistics required no small amount of effort.
Booking a specialist vehicle, arranging disabled accommodation at the temple, obtaining the necessary recommendations, and figuring out his care requirements were all hurdles we had to overcome.
Add to that the bitterly cold, freezing temperatures and the challenge of manoeuvring Raymond and his wheelchair into the back of the accessible vehicle, proved quite the operation!
Yet somehow, we managed it all.

The Rewards

The reward was three days of service in the temple, filled with gentle camaraderie and timeless moments that felt truly idyllic.

We certainly liked to tease one another – a lot!
Being at the temple and the shared purpose brought a sense of peace and togetherness that was both comforting and uplifting.
As we ministered to one another, sharing acts of love and kindness, I was reminded of Galatians 6:2, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.”
The experience was a wonderful reminder of the power of friendship, careful planning, and staying young at heart despite life’s challenges.
This trip wasn’t just about the temple, on reflection it was also about the bonds between us.
Through witty banter, shared memories, and quiet reflections, we experienced a kind of cheerful resilience and a reminder of what truly matters in life.
It was charming, heartwarming, and an experience that we’ll treasure for years to come.
What cherished memories or moments of ministering have brought you joy and strengthened your bonds with others?

Remember

Meeting the Gubler family last week was fun.
Last year, we met their oldest son Henry, for the first time, when he arrived in the Belgium Netherlands Mission (BNZ).
Although we’d heard a little about his family, it was a delight to finally meet with them.
Together, we enjoyed a lovely lunch in Culross.
Our time was filled with love, joyful stories, and a few laughs, especially when Zack got a little excited by his glass of lime and lemonade!
Shared experiences have a unique way of bringing people closer, creating bonds that will last a lifetime and beyond.
Sometimes we never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.
Not only do we have lovely memories of being with Henry in the mission field, but we also now have a memory of a special time with his whole family.
This shared history is what makes relationships with family, friends and loved ones so meaningful.
There is something about shared memories that create a sense of belonging.
When you make memories with others, you feel part of something bigger than yourself.
Whether its with family, new friends, or missionaries in the BNZ, it’s my experience that creating memories and remembering them, fosters a sense of togetherness and belonging that builds a unique and powerful bond for all of us.
These priceless treasures we call memories, are the glue that makes our relationships stronger.
I am so glad that we all made time for each other.
Good memories are real blessings to remember and never forget.
Remembering is not only a good and practical thing to do, but it’s also a scriptural practice.
Our relationship with Jesus Christ, is built upon remembering Him.
When the Saviour instituted the sacrament, He invited His disciples to partake of the emblems “in remembrance” of His sacrifice.
In every sacrament prayer each Sunday, we hear, the word always preceding the word remember.
And in the Book of Mormon, during King Benjamin’s final address, he used the word remember seven times.
He hoped that his people would remember “the greatness of God … and his goodness and long-suffering” toward them. – Mosiah 4:11.
My invitation – when you recall your memories, remember how your Father in Heaven has blessed you too.