I attended church in a family friend’s ward today. Starla, who taught my mother the gospel 30 years ago, introduced me to Bruce C. Hafen, who was the area president when I began my mission in Germany. He was recently given an assignment to work with bishops in county jails, and was asked to find out more about treatment providers for people who have sexually abused. After I told him that’s exactly what I do for work, he had several questions, and expressed that our conversation was an answer to his recent prayers (my HWN today), looking for direction in this area :)

Also, I was reminded later in the day of one of my favorite Gandalf quotes, and it think it’s appropriate :) Here’s Gandalf’s response to Galadriel after she asked him about Bilbo:

Galadriel: Mithrandir… Why the Halfling?

Gandalf: I don’t know…Saruman believes that it is only great power that can hold evil in check, but that is not what I have found. I’ve found it is the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay, simple acts of kindness and love. Why Bilbo Baggins? Perhaps it is because I am afraid… and he gives me courage.