Letting Go-Starting Anew

For nearly the last three years, I have been assigned in my church to help oversee the Primary, the organization that teaches the children, ages 18 months -11 years old.  It has been quite a journey, and I can honestly say that I've learned so much.  Our secretary and 1st counselor have changed 3 times each during our time, but the president and I have stayed the same.  I remember being somewhat apprehensive to work with her in the beginning, and yet I can say that she has taught me so much.  She's been such a great example of compassion, of sincere missionary work, of sacrifice. 

It's funny how we can sense that changes are coming.  Truthfully, I've been ready to be done with primary for a while.  I could just feel it.  I had lost that enthusiasm that accompanies something your heart is truly in.  It's not that I didn't love those little ones, I just felt it was time for a change.  And yet, when I was released last Sunday, I was so emotional letting it all go.  I feel myself being drawn back to the primary room, like it is home to me.  I don't know where else to go.  I know those kids by name.  They have shaped me. 

And now it is time to turn the ropes over to another group of wonderful, capable women.  The primary program, that has brought me more stress than I could have ever imagined, is no longer my responsibility.  And although I'm not exactly sad about that, there is a sadness in letting go of something that you have poured so much of yourself into. 

The cub scouting, where we have had simply amazing leaders transform our program into what it is today, is now someone else's responsibility.  I have found myself thinking occasionally of some responsibility or another that I need to take care of for primary, only to realize that those responsibilities are no longer mine.  I've got to re-train my brain. 

I was called to serve in another presidency, this time in Young Women's, where I will get to work with the girls, ages 12-18 years old.  I am excited.  I am scared.  I feel like a fish out of water.  The girls don't know me yet, and I have not yet gained their trust.  But in time, I know I'll begin to feel a part of this organization, just like I did in Primary.  I know these girls will become a part of me, and they will shape me as well.  I already have hopes and dreams for them, and I hope with all my heart that I'll be able to convey to them what living God's plan can do for their lives. 

And so, as I let go of one responsibility, I take on another, knowing that when I close this door, again I'll have been taught so much from those I serve and those I serve with.