We were asked for 4 photos that described us. So I selected this one as one of them. It was taken at the Provo Sesquicenntial Ball early on in our marriage. I remodeled my wedding dress, Rick rented period costume and I had a hairdresser give me my first and only Gibson hairdo (which I wish would come back it was so fun to wear). So a couple of weeks ago we received a call from our Mission President. "I would like you to teach dancing at our upcoming Youth Activity". I started to laugh nervously, he said "Why are you laughing, you are professionals", I explained we are not professionals just loved to dance. My Bolivian Mission President doesn't take no for answers.
So we organized music, English, Ukrainian and Russian. Pop, waltz, cowboy, R&B, rock and some I don't know how to categorize.
We started out with two line dances (I don't do line dances in the U.S.) but it was a good way to get everyone involved. Then the "showmanship" kicked in and we have a great time clapping, cheering and dancing. with whomever wanted to practice their waltz. Of course, they eventually reverted to their stand and shake type of dancing, but we did get them moving and we all had a great time.
Oh the interesting tasks of a senior missionary couple.
This was much more than a dance it was a Marriage Conference, to get these youth in our mission exposed to other LDS youth in the mission area. One of the key activities was the "speed dating" this was two chairs facing each other lined up side by side. The woman were to stay in their chair and the men would rotate every 5 minutes to the next numbered chair. This allowed for 5 minutes of conversation and get to know each participant. As one youn man said "if I liked the woman it wasn't long enough, but if I didn't it was only 5 minutes of conversation". At least they had a chance to mingle and get to know each other. That was the endearvor to get to know others, and then if you were interested there was time to spend with the women of your preference.
Having a quiet conversation with the couple who led this program she said "if seniors want to see miracles, they need to come on a mission". Truly it is just as important for our spiritual growth as it is for our son's and daughters who we so willing send on missions. Send yourself on a mission, it will be a wonderful growth opportunity for you as well. It doesn't have to be foreign, you can stay at home and have a wonderful mission experience, but it does take faith no matter where you serve.
First off: that is really a cute picture of you guys. And it shows - as usual - your love for each other.
ReplyDeleteThe activity sounds like a lot of fun. Sandra is involved in her ward to get people dating more. Whenever "speed dating" is mentioned, most men roll their eyes. I don't get it; they don't do it on their own, this is to help them, but they don't appreciate it. That's why the comment of that young man in the Ukraine is so refreshing. They still appreciate the efforts on their behalf.
Anyhow, last Friday Sandra hosted an activity: "French Night". She cooked a french dinner for 10, they had some movies like "Gigi", "Funny Face" etc, all filmed in Paris. And they had some dance instruction and dance as well. These are activities where you have to come with a date, meaning you HAVE TO ask somebody. Obviously they were so comfortable with each other they talked most of the night, they didn't even watch a movie. So, I would say: GREAT SUCCESS!
I wished we could go on a mission, but unfortunately we are not in the position yet.
You guys keep going and make a difference in other people's lives! It's good to do the Lord's errands.
Smiles, Jenny Maria