Charity Never Faileth

We are visiting relatives who are not LDS, but are surrounded - literally surrounded - by those who are. Of these members, one is a drug addict, another is a cheat, and another is busy with 5 children and has no time for an elderly neighbor. A major political figure in the town is also LDS and apparently not a good representation for the church either. Another member works with one of these relatives and hardly ever comes to work. Glowing reports, eh? Today the lesson in Relief Society was on friendship - ironic considering the report I'm getting from my non-LDS family. The teacher literally told us that she does not make friends out of the church because they are boring. WHAT?! I so wanted to call her on her attitude, but she didn't see my hand. I too struggle to maintain friendships with those who are not members of the church, but it is because *I* am the one lacking, not them. With my family being surrounded by members, I can't help but think that there is a great opportunity here but because of the poor example of others there is a sour taste in their mouths. It makes me sad and upset.

I am thinking more and more that though we have so much to offer with the knowledge that we have, we do a poor job of living our beliefs. I am in such awe at the level of service rendered by this family to each other as well as to the community. I am so grateful for my family's humbling example of selflessness and loyalty to each other. As a result of this visit, I have a desire to be more involved in my community and to get to know my neighbors. We have a responsibility to do so. It's easy to make excuses because we're busy with our church lives and raising our family, but how will our children learn if we don't set the example for them? And how will we change the lives of those around us if we aren't a part of their sphere?