We feel impressed to share some thoughts about teamwork. Our mission will be defined by projects and people. Having just completed some projects and seen significant people in our lives change and grow, we have come to see the value of the team. Mia Hamm, famed US soccer player, is quoted as saying, “I am a member of a team, and I rely on the team. I defer to it and sacrifice for it, because the team, not the individual, is the real champion.”
Let us share two examples. Thanksgiving is one of our favorite holidays and we wanted to create an atmosphere as close to “home” as we could for the missionaries in and around Bucharest. We had a good experience last year and knew how much work it was going to be to feed 60 missionaries and guests again. We were willing but overwhelmed. However, when the other senior couples here offered to pitch in and help, especially with the preparation and cooking of 90 pounds of turkey, the job became fun again. The Jeppesens, a couple from Sugar City, Idaho were perfect. They were totally willing to get theirs hands dirty. They also had some great ideas to improve the process, which is great because we will be passing the torch to them. The result was a great meal and good feelings all around.
The real reason we are here is to help people. It is often a slow process. We have been thrilled to see two of the people we have been working with for the last year recently take on responsibilities within the branch. One will assume responsibility for the library and the other will look after the finances. Each of them have worked hard to be at the point where they are able to help and they are now grateful for the opportunity to serve. They want to do the best they can and they feel more connected. It is truly a win-win situation.