10.26.2011

Feeling Grateful

I have had the privilege recently to be an accompanist for a "Time Out for Women" presenter. She has a great message to share and she tells her story both with words and with music. I have traveled with her to Nashville {which I loved because we still have sweet ties to that place}, to Pocatello {which I loved because a wonderful former seminary student from Reno lives there now and I got to spend the 2 days with her}, and recently to Reno. We have loved and enjoyed all the places we've lived, but Reno has a special place in my heart because it's there that I taught not just 1 seminary class a day, but 2 -- and I was the Primary chorister as well, in a really wonderful, loving ward that took great care of me while I was seriously ill. So we have so many sweet memories of Reno, as well as some ties that will never be cut.


It was such a gift to be back there, and to catch up with so many people that I love. I think the sweetest thing has been to realize that while I remember and love many Reno friends - -the reality is that they remember and love me too. That's not something I consider very often. I have always felt that when we leave an area, we probably don't cross the minds of those we have left behind very often. I cherish all the friends we have made but haven't ever assumed that they remember me.

My Reno visit proved me wrong. I was humbled to find so many people there that still remember me (???) and love me and it touched my heart in a way that I will never forget.

What a sweet blessing to know that these people, who mean so much to me and who I will always remember and love -- remember me too. It was a lovely weekend.

**Me with a former seminary student and friend, Amber. She's not only beautiful, but wonderful too.

9 comments:

Jill said...

I wish I could've been there, too! If there is a next time for you to travel with Time Out, you'll get to come to Denver!

Ashley said...

Of course Reno remembers you; you're unforgettable! Glad you were able to visit.

Natalie Scott said...

You are one blessed lady to have people all over the place who love you! Course, it's no surprise to me.

I'm glad Reno remembers you and loves you, but they can never have you back.
;)

Unknown said...

everybody loves you, no matter where you go, because you're THE BEST!!!

Andrea said...

You have been very lucky to touch so many people's lives in so many places! And of course they remember and love you! We're glad you're here now to stay!

Melissa Ann Goodwin said...

What a lovely post. I've had a similar experience - I'm doing a book signing in my hometown back east next weekend, and I am amazed that people I haven't seen in 40 years are so excited to come! I had this image of standing alone in the bookstore, hoping someone would come. It's very moving, and fills me with gratitude and love. I love the feeling of your blog -signing up to follow.

BECKY said...

Hi Jan! I'm so glad you stopped by my blog, because now I've found yours! I agree with Melissa, your blog has a lovely "feel" to it! She mentioned becoming a follower but I couldn't find a place to do that. Am I missing it?

Elder Talmage Nielsen said...

Jan, I wish I would have known that you were going to be in Pocatello for Time out for Women. I would have attended. We now live in Blackfoot. I was wondering how you knew Macy Robinson and now I know. I know her as well and she is awesome as well as you are. Love hearing about you and your family. I still remember all the times we had in Nashville and all that you did for Rex and I.

Jenny Nielsen

Carrie and Nathan said...

Everyone does remember you. We all think we are your favorite, too. ;) I admire your willingness to serve and get to know people wherever you go. That is not easy.

On a side note, I'm grateful to see the word grateful and not greatful. I know, I know...nerd alert. Thanks for entertaining my rant. xoxo