Serving as a Daughter

When Kathy Schultz was called as homemaking counselor in the Socorro Ward, Albuquerque New Mexico Stake, she had no idea what she was getting herself into. Within days, she’d received information about an upcoming stake share fair, along with instructions about her ward’s assignments, which included providing displays, a menu and meal, a class leader, instruction and kit for a mini-class, table settings, and a centerpiece.

The task might have been daunting for anybody, but Kathy has additional challenges. Struck by spinal muscular atrophy, she last walked when she was eleven years old. She uses a battery-operated wheelchair and is dependent on her husband and others for help in meeting many of her needs, but she has some control over small movements close to her body, such as combing her hair, writing and typing, and holding her two-year-old son, Ammon.

As Kathy contemplated the upcoming share fair, she pondered how she could fulfill her calling. “Even though I am disabled,” she explains, “I am not too disabled to do the Lord’s work. I may not be able to stand or walk, but I can serve as a daughter of God.”

First, she went to the Lord in prayer, explaining that she was inexperienced in her calling but willing to learn and grow. Immediately ideas started forming in her head. She wrote them down, then went to a folder of material she had been given some days earlier. There were more ideas there.

As the day for the share fair neared, Kathy learned of additional matters requiring her attention. But she found the pieces fitting together. Assignments were made, recipes came to her, projects were completed.

“If we allow the Lord to help us and inspire us, he will do so,” she says. “We have to make up our mind to do our best to fulfill our callings and then, if we let him be our partner, he’ll take us by the hand and lead us along.” Kathy’s example, quiet dependence on the Spirit, and commitment to the gospel inspire all those who interact with her.—Martha S. Hatch, Socorro, New Mexico