The Impact We Have

In our own way, we all impact those around us. Sometimes people will tell us what something we said or did meant to them. And sometimes we will never know the impact we had on a life. That doesn't mean that we should get discouraged or give up. You never know what you've done to help someone else.



I bring this up courtesy of Samuel, the Lamanite. He is a good example to us of doing what Heavenly Father asked of him, without knowing what the effect of his actions would be. Samuel was told to preach to the Nephites, even though it could cost him his life (they were very angry at him for preaching to them and were seeking to kill him as a consequence). Although it was difficult, he did so and was protected. As soon as he was finished preaching, the scripture says that he got off the wall, walked out of the land, and "He was never heard of more among the Nephites" (Helaman 16:8). Samuel did what he was asked to do and never was able to see the fruit of his labors. He converted many people unto the gospel of Jesus Christ. Chapters later in 3rd Nephi, Samuel, the Lamanit is mentioned again when the prophecies he made came to pass. The people remembered Samuel and his preachings. He had an impact on the people, even though he was never aware of the impact he had.

Has that happened to us? Have we helped someone without even knowing it? Or, have we been helping without letting that person know what he/she has done for us?

I want to strive to help those around me a little more, to be a little bit more Christlike in my actions. I also want to remember to say thank you to those who have helped me, even in small ways. Showing gratitude helps people to know the impact that they have had in our lives.