Good to feel Good

    A week or so ago Paul had a really bad cold and we stayed in the apartment for several days.  Although it was only three days, it felt like an eternity since this isn't a huge place and we don't have much to do in it.  But, he is back to his old (used literally) self and this week we have been busy- which is just what we love.   Nothing like being sick to make one appreciate feeling good.
   Yesterday we helped prepare and serve dinner to the unemployed in Victoriaville.  Apparently there are no homeless as we have in the U.S., probably because they would literally freeze to death in a few minutes in the winter, so those who would  normally be on the streets are called "the unemployed".  I am assuming the government provides housing for these individuals, which is where some of the sales tax (15% on everything!!!!) goes.  Anyway, our little branch of the church here in Victoriaville volunteers once a year to provide one of these meals.  I cut up peppers, onions, and tomatoes for at least 90 minutes yesterday afternoon; when my back got tired, I enlisted Paul, who I do not believe had ever cut up a pepper before in his life.  He became fairly proficient so from now on I'll know where to turn.
     We went by a sister's home to pick up her food contribution and on to the church to wait for the others to bring theirs.  We loaded the car with the food, large bowls, utensils, and whatever else we thought might be needed.  We then headed to the place where the meal would be served.  We fed meatloaf, rice pilaf, salad and cake to 52, (or more) very appreciative individuals.  We did this without benefit of a kitchen or even a source of water except for the women's bathroom. It was a challenge, but we did it.  We had the help of the girl who spear-headed the activity, plus the young missionaries and a couple of branch members.  I then brought most of the dirty dishes home and washed them while Paul was at his branch presidency meeting last night.   It felt good to be doing good. And, the service was invaluable in helping people know who we are.  We forgot to take pictures of us in acton, but we did get this one. It is the notice which the director wrote to let the unemployed know about the meal:  

Basically it says "You are invited to a dinner respectfully, graciously prepared by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints".  (translation is loose; please excuse my French, as they say!)  I think this is exactly the kind of activity missionaries should be involved with, and falls well within the "anxiously engaged in a good cause" category.