"You cannot lift another soul until you are standing on higher ground than he is. You must be sure, if you would rescue the man, that you yourself are setting the example of what you would have him be. You cannot light another fire in another soul unless it is burning in your own soul." ~Harold B. Lee
I've always loved this idea -- that if I want to help someone else, I have to be in a good, solid place myself. That means that I need to look inside to make sure that I am in that place - that my personal fire is bright enough to share. When I taught seminary, after a lot of years I was given a keepsake by our CES leader that says: "They warmed their hands by the fire of your faith", and that thought has stayed with me.
So my faith, my fire and my testimony need to be bright. My footing needs to be sure and steady and I need to make sure I live on high ground.
[picture via flickr]
5.13.2009
The Fire Within
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
8 comments:
That's a great thought for my grumpy Wednesday morning. Thanks!
i don't think you have to worry about that jan! your fire within burns bright-you are a shining example!
that is such a great quote!
Couldn't agree with you more.
So, so true! And to include to the quote--to keep the flames bright, the fire must be nurtured and looked after.
I love that token the CES director gave you. Very touching.
I appreciate the post because I am always trying to remember the whole quote. I think about it often when assessing where I'm at apiritually. It's a good reminder!
wow--I love that!! If only I could live like that everyday!! Thanks for giving me something to work towards!! Your fire is white hot! ;)
Post a Comment