*&@*^%$#(*&@^%!

Last week I was out in my yard working in the beautiful spring sunshine. There is a new house being built next to my home, with construction workers constantly coming and going.  It wasn't difficult to overhear the workers using profanity  as a form of expression. Usually I would have ignored them, but after an hour and an ear full, I took the liberty to say something.

"Excuse me, would you mind toning down your language?  Your voices carry throughout the neighborhood."

One of the workers replied in angry rebuttal, "Well, we're just uneducated construction workers and we don't know better, it's just the way we are!"  His reply was rather crass and lacked any sensitivity or respect  toward my request. 

I was surprised in his response and my face showed an expression of complete and utter shock, but my words came swiftly, "I don't believe that foul language has anything to do with the level of ones education, but I do believe it has everything to do with ones level of self respect and integrity."  

At that moment, another construction worker spoke out, telling him to knock it off.  Not another word was said as I walked back to my house.  I thought about this experience the rest of the day.  I was so appreciative and grateful that this young man had the moral integrity and respect to come forward.  Often we wander if one person can change the world for the better... this courageous young man had certainly made a difference in mine. He spoke out and was firm in his principles.

When we have a desire to become something better, that desire creates actions that produce powerful results.  I learned years ago that playing it small doesn't magnify my potential, nor does it serve the kingdom of God.  There's nothing good or enlightening about shrinking beneath ones spiritual stature.  

We are given opportunities everyday to elevate ourself and the lives of those with whom we associate. As Latter Day Saints, we know through our spiritual actions and deeds we can become disciples of Christ.  The best rule to live by, "If everyone does what I do, would the world be a better place in which to live?"  If so, than you can rest in peace knowing that you left an indelible impression that even time cannot erase

I believe in the final hours, most mortals are clinging whatever legacy they created throughout their life.  Whether good or bad, their legacy lives on.

. Written by Linda Sumner Urza for: onefineday11.blogspot.com