Pulling the Plug

Because of the back problems I have been struggling with for years, I finally had to reluctantly pull the plug on my temple service. I took a leave of absence for a few weeks to try to get healthy enough to continue serving. After physical therapy, acupuncture treatments, massage therapy, chiropractic treatments, injections, extra exercise, as well as limiting activities that aggravate my back, I did return in the hopes that I could serve with limited or no pain. I gave it a good shot, but felt that I could not continue to serve. The nine-hour ordeal each week (from the time I leave home until I return) can be brutal. I tried to hide my pain while there, but don’t know how successful I was. My back pain was sapping the joy out of my service. My spirit was willing, but my flesh was weak.

 I did not recklessly jump to a quick decision. I had been debating with myself whether to continue serving or not for many weeks. Alan has supported my service all these years (almost 8), but now he believed it was time for me to retire from being an ordinance worker. I reluctantly agreed with him. 

It was so difficult to push the e-mail "send" button when I notified the temple of my need to be released because I knew that a chapter in my life was coming to an end.

I have LOVED being an ordinance worker. I grew very close to the other ordinance workers on our shift - especially during the two years I served as the coordinator. I also  loved performing the ordinances, helping the patrons, and just being in the temple each week. It gives me comfort to know from the scriptures that "when ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are in the service of God." I tried to serve Him the best I could and for as long as I could. I guess I shouldn't feel bad about only serving 8 years. That is longer than most. I'm counting my blessings!

(5:30 A.M. arrival at temple)