Do Over

While driving the carpool yesterday, I heard a steady stream of comparative one-up-manship.  In the middle of the ride, I overheard Gavin ask for a "do over".  He wanted the opportunity to change his answer because he knew he could do better.

It started me thinking about all the times I wish I could call a "do over", and change the way I had responded or answered a question.

I had a friend show me an inscription I had done a few years ago in a book.  I cringed at, not only my handwriting, but also the things I had said--or perhaps not said.  I sincerely wished I could have gone back in time and been more forthcoming with what I had felt and written. I am not sure it would have changed anything for my friend, but I know I could have done better.

A couple years ago I received a thank you note from a neighbor.  Her mother had passed away and a few of the neighbors had gone in on a gift. I honestly had not given it more thought than to give the money to the neighbor gathering it, and sign the card that had been brought to my door.  In the thank you note to me, she acknowledged each of my children, told me of her love for her mom and how significant it was to have neighbors who loved and cared for her.  She thanked me for the beautiful statue that will remind her of both her mother and her wonderful neighbors.

It had such an impact on me that I still keep her note in my scriptures.  It reminds me that we can connect, love and care for those around us in simple, christ-like ways.  It doesn't have to be a grand gesture, it can be in a smile, a caring interested question, or in a thank you note.

I can't go back in time and have a "Do Over" for my words or past mistakes.  I can however, strive to put things right and then DO BETTER in the future.