The Ultimate Payback

When I was called as Primary President 4 1/2 years ago, this sweet boy Connor was a Sunbeam. Connor is autistic. He struggled with Primary during the whole three years that I served there. He hated staying, he wouldn't speak, and he was often accompanied by his mom who patiently sat with him and tried to help him enjoy Primary. Over time, he started participating more and even became willing to give talks and prayers in Primary. Connor and I slowly built a friendship and by the time I was released, we had a good thing going. I hoped more than anything that Connor knew he was loved and wanted in our Primary.

Today I had the opportunity to substitute in Connor's class. As we were opening the class, the kids were sharing exciting things that had happened during the week. Connor patiently waited for his turn, and when I called on him, he said, "I remember you from when I was in Junior Primary." I told him that I remembered him too and that I missed seeing all the kids every week. The other kids wanted to know if Relief Society was boring (sometimes!) and told me they remembered me, but they couldn't ever remember my name. Then Connor said, "Sometimes I just really miss you a lot in Primary."

I know that most times our service in our communities or schools or churches goes unnoticed and without thanks. Today, this was all the thanks I needed for the years of challenges and struggles and wondering if I was doing an okay job in my responsibility.