This article by my talented mother, Katherine Myers, teaches how we can use our talents to serve others, and that there are numerous ways- other than just food and money- in which we can give to those in need. She shares many personal experiences and stories which are very touching.

The ironic thing about this article is that I've recently been going through some stressful challenges, and when my mom offered to write an article for the site to help me out, I wanted to say no. Fortunately I humbled myself and accepted her help. So here she is once more, using one of her many talents- this time through her amazing skill of writing- to serve me during a time of need. Thanks, mom, I love you!

After reading this article please share your experiences of being served, or serving others, with us. And make sure you return for next week's follow-up article, "Giving Service with a Cheerful Heart," or sign up for my weekly newsletter to keep posted on the latest news.

A couple of years ago I was going through an extremely difficult experience. One evening I was feeling particularly sad and discouraged when I said a little pray, telling my Father how I felt and asking for some comfort. After my prayer the following phrase from a well quoted Book of Mormon scripture popped into my mind: "men are, that they might have joy" (2 Nephi 2:25).

My immediate reaction was, "What? This is what you've sent me? How can I have joy?" I did not actually believe that I would be able to feel joy again, or more accurately that I could. Then I began to ponder this scripture and realized that the keyword was "might." Having joy was a choice and the Lord was telling me that I could, and should, choose to have joy.

This experience has been very special to me, one that I often think about and which continues to give me hope and helps me to choose to be happy.

What are some of your favorite scriptures, and why?

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints members of the local ward (or branch) are asked to speak during their Sunday Sacrament meeting services, including the youth. Members are usually asked by their bishopric (or branch presidency) to speak anywhere from 5-20 minutes, and are often assigned a topic.

This past Sunday when I was asked to speak, I was given a paper with some useful information regarding my talk which included a list of "Ten Tips for Terrific Talks." This list, written by John F. Cary, is from the December 1993 Ensign's "Random Sampler" section and is linked to from the Church's topic page, Prepare a Talk.

It's not always easy to speak in church, especially if it's your first time or if you're afraid of speaking. This list of ten tips gives excellent guidance in overcoming fear by being prepared, researching, and practicing.

Note: Visitors are always welcome to come worship with us during our Sunday services and other events, meetings, and activities.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has a special, "Marriage and Family Relations" Sunday School class, which obviously focuses on marriage and the family. This class is not regularly offered, but is made available as directed by local church leaders.

The Marriage and Family Relations class is divided into two parts as follows:

1. Strengthening Marriages: for married couples and those preparing to be married
2. Parents' Responsibilities to Strengthen Families: for parents and grandparents

Each part is optional and members can attend one or both parts, depending on their personal needs.

The Participant's Study Guide has excellent lessons and articles for individuals/couples to read at home in preparation for each Sunday's lesson. I've taken this class before and am currently attending it again. It's a wonderful class, which I thoroughly enjoy and recommend to those seeking to strengthen their marriage and family.