Competitiveness and Respect

I had a long chat with my wife the other day.

Our oldest son (9) has always been a relatively mild boy. He is not shy, nor is he unlikable, just not part of the popular gang. We have always encouraged him to choose the right and be respectful. However, this seems to translate into a service oriented mentally where he places others needs ahead of himself.

On one hand you try to teach them that loosing a game is not the end of the world. On the other, you want him to understand that winning is important, as long as it's not at the expense of others and you play by the rules.

We are somewhat frustrated with trying to figure out how to motivate him to be more competitive. He does not seem to care if he wins or loses, but rather help the others, usually at the expense of his own success.

One of the only places I have noticed competitiveness on his part is between himself and his younger brother. Despite the fact that we generally try to discourage that, sometimes I let it ride for a while - just to provide him with the experience.

Still, the same question resounds: How do you encourage competitiveness while still maintaining humility and respect?

Perhaps it's just an age thing, that he will get as he grows older...

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Blessing

Yesterday I had a unique experience.

My wife has a dear friend, a wonderful woman who comes from a humble background in another country. She married well to a local man, who had committed to care for all her needs.

Despite various attempts, her relationship with her husband and two teenage kids has grown to have serious issues.

Her story would be completely unknown to us, except for the fact that this friend has found emotional refuge in our home. She had opened up to my wife and sees her as a great comfort.

This led to a suggestion from my wife to her friend, a non-member, that she may wish to receive a priesthood blessing. I do not know what went through her head as she was thinking of the offer. All I know is that she came back with a resounding Yes.

We asked one of our home teachers to assist me in her blessing... At first, I was hesitant that my personal familiarity with her story may impact my ability to discern the voice of the Spirit. Then I realized that my familiarity will actually as a lens to focus the message Heavenly Father wants to share with her, through me.

We gave her a blessing, which was very different than what she had expected. However I know she felt the spirit for the tears were in her eyes when we were done.

I have looked back on this instance and thought of other people that have opened up to us in the past. I feel the spirit that resides in our home opens up people's hearts. Our home is our temple and offers a sanctuary for those who need it. I am always humbled by an opportunity to provide emotional support in the service of our Lord.

TOTD: Keep your heart open for service opportunities. You will not be disappointed.

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