I Love to See the Temple

This past Saturday, we attended one of Phil's numerous Christmas parties, this one at a Golden Corral in West Valley. Because we were already in the area, Phil decided to get some work done, and offered to take Oscar and Lily with him. We were fairly close to IKEA, and since an hour and a half alone with Henry in IKEA was just too good an offer to pass up, I quickly agreed. I dropped Phil and the kids off and had Phil repeat the instructions to me several times, how do I get there from here, and more importantly, how do I get back. Anyone who knows me well knows I have zero sense of direction. I gave myself a pep talk as I drove away, and repeated the instructions--I could SO do this.

Driving down the street, the Jordan River Temple loomed on my right, and I noted other landmarks that might help me find my way back. With little difficulty Henry and I made it to IKEA, and had a grand time. When it was time to go, I noticed the darkness out the windows--that could be problematic. No matter, I told myself, I would still be able to find my way.

I began alright, but soon got confused, and took a wrong turn. Or maybe several. Nothing looked familiar, and much to my dismay, I soon found myself in Riverton. If I had known anything about Salt Lake, I'm sure I could have found my way back to South Jordan, but since I was so unfamiliar with the area, I was hopelessly lost. I saw a 1300 West, but thinking back on Phil's directions, I thought I was supposed to take 1300 South. And then there were the other streets--something about Heather I thought. What had seemed so clear to me two hours ago was completely muddled now.

Then I remembered the temple. If I could just find the temple, I knew I could get back to Phil and the kids. As I drove, I combed the valley for the familiar spire, but couldn't see it. Eventually I had to stop and get directions. Some friendly guys at Maverick directed me to the temple, and then I saw it--the proverbial beacon in the night. From the temple, I quickly found my way back, and all was well.

Next day, I sat in church, thinking about this metaphor for life. How easy it is to get lost, to get off track, confused by darkness and unfamiliar territory. Soon we can be lost completely, with no idea how to get back. If we can find our way back to the temple, or to church, or the gospel, we'll be able to find our way home. Funny how life can be such a great teacher.