"But Charity is the pure love of Christ,"

47 But charity is the pure love of Christ, and it endureth forever; and whoso is found possessed of it at the last day, it shall be well with him.  Moroni 7:47

Last week Irvin Begaye called to see if we would have a tiller available on Monday.  I was sure we would, so I agreed to have one ready.  Elder Olson and I had followed him to his home a few weeks ago after he came by and expressed interest in having a garden next spring.

He had come into the History Center several weeks before coming to our apartment and said that he had a friend who had had a church garden and how well it had done and how much it produced.  He asked about how he could go about getting one.  He seemed very interested and sincere, so we were glad when he came by again and then called last week.

 Elder Olson went over this morning and found not just Irvin, but 7 other adult men.  They did not say much, but most were willing to shake Elder Olson's hand.  One did talk a little, but they each helped till and seemed happy to have their picture taken.  It turns out that Irvin is retired, but continues to take an active interest in helping those with special needs in the community.  He had gone to get them earlier, brought them back to "help" and encouraged each to take a turn with the tiller and putting up the corner posts.

  When Elder Olson had arrived the men were taking turns carrying the garbage barrels that were filled with manure to the garden spot.  They would stop along the way to change sides to rest their arms.  The wheel barrow they pushed had a very squeaky wheel that made a lot of noise.  No one seemed to mind though, they just wanted to take their turn pushing it.  It was nearly a hundred yards, but no one complained.

  Some were more eager to help than others, but each took their turn tilling and was pleased to have their picture taken more than once.  It looks as if Irvin will have these "special brothers" continue to help in the spring.  Each will be given the opportunity to help plant, weed, water, and harvest. 

  It did not seem to matter that not many words were spoken.  They watched, they helped, they smiled.

  We are eager to watch them next spring as things begin to grow not only in the gardens, but in the hearts of all who are there.

  

• Matthew 25:40

  40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you,Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
• Elder & Sister Olson  Tuba City, Arizona 16 Dec 2013
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