Recently James and I were asked to speak in Sacrament meeting. This is a terrifying experience for me. I have to write down every word that I am going to say, or I can't remember anything.
Because we were both asked at the same time. Barry was able to convince James and I to accept. I spent many hours writing a mediocre talk. James wrote a very nice talk, and practiced it a few times before Sunday.
It was his first Sunday to pass the Sacrament as a new Deacon. He did an amazing job, my mommy heart was bursting. It was his turn to speak first and he headed up to the pulpit, set his talk down, looked out over the audience and opened his mouth but couldn't speak a word, the bishop came over to try to help him, but it was to no avail. As tears started to whel up in his eyes I headed up to the stand to see what I could do. I didn't really understand why he didn't just go sit down, he told me later his feet were frozen and he couldn't move from his spot. Before I could even get to the stand, Barry who had taken the baby out, walked up to the stand and read James talk for him as they both stood there.
When he was done, James and he were able to walk out. It was one of the worst cases of stage fright that I have ever seen. Apparently, it runs in the family, But I was so proud of him for trying.
What happened next was remarkable. I gave my talk and as we were leaving sacrament. Many people came up to me to tell me what a good talk James had written and how it had touched them.
We we got home the doorbell didn't stop. People dropping off kind notes and treats for my James. We even got a couple in the mail.
He had a couple friends bring over his favorite dessert and draw pictures for him.
I am so grateful to the sweet people in our ward who care about my little boy.
They turned what could have been a very bad experience into a positive one.
Some one even sent us this photo with a sweet note for James about his parents coming to his rescue.
