“Good evening Bishop, I was wondering if you had a few minutes for a quick chat,” Cree said.
“Um, we do have an appointment on Sunday.”
“I’m aware of that, but if you’ll give me two minutes I’ll explain why that’s causing some anxiety issues.”
Bishop immediately grabbed his laptop, and invited Cree to walk with him to his office.
“We don’t need to go anywhere,” Cree began. “The story is simple. I had a bishop previously who was helping me work through some things. I was also taking care of a few different callings, and doing exceptionally well. Then, when I went to help Harkers Island, after Hurricane Florence…”
“I was down there for that!” Bishop said, finding common ground.
“Well, while I was there, one of the Stake Presidency thought I was a woman. He got extremely offended when he was corrected by one of the sisters in my ward.”
As they reached the Bishops office, Bishop paused realizing where the story was going. He motioned for Cree to sit down and continue.
“The Stake President, went on what felt like a rampage. He took my temple recommend, he asked me not to use the priesthood, and of course that automatically removed me from all of my callings.
“Once I arrived here, there were some peculiar circumstances that placed me in this ward. The Bishop and Stake President we had were both so much different than any leaders I’ve met before. My first interview with both was to restore my temple recommend, as well as allow me to use the priesthood.
“So I’m certain you could understand why I’m a little anxious about a new Bishop requesting an interview.” Cree finished his explanation.
“I just wanted to get to know you a little,” Bishop started. “So you hold the Melchizedek Priesthood, are an ordained Elder, and have a valid temple recommend?”
“Yes sir.”
“Then let’s talk…”
Lessons Learned
Cree and Bishop talked for about fifteen minutes about a few different things. Bishop had a few questions and wanted to know what he could do to help. Overall, the discussion went very well.
Things Done Well
- Following an impression to seek out Bishop
- Explaining the situation without malice
Things To Fix
- Allowing anxiety to control my family life
- Preventing situations that cause anxiety
Count Your Blessings
- Having a Bishop willing to learn new things and follow the impressions he receives
- The impressions I receive as I try to be open to the answers to the questions in my heart
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