"Approaching another fork on the path or road?!"

 

How often have you found yourself wondering what would be best –when you have options and choices to make?  It often seems that there are good, better and best options to consider---and each of those have quite a few “well it depends on…” situations that need to be considered. Over quite a while Karen and I have each been gently nudged with feelings that we should serve a full time mission together. In our discussions we kept coming to that big fork in the road----“Ok, is that the best pathway to take now? Or when and how?”

We were blessed to feel that this path we have chosen is what is best for us at this time. What a blessing from the Lord it is to be here in Pawtucket, Rhode Island serving among these good people. (Just so you know, and can speak like a “Rhody”, the name is pronounced, “Pu-TUCK-et”  --not “paw….”)



Observing and hearing from so many people, among our congregation and those visiting each week, seeking to know more about Jesus Christ, has opened our minds and hearts.  It is rewarding to interact with others as we help each other believe and follow the Savior with faith.



Our church chapel is located inside a former industrial building in the downtown area of Pawtucket. Nearby is a national park site, The Old Slater Mill, built in 1793. It is the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution and was the first water powered cotton thread factory in the nation. There are numerous old factory buildings still standing in this region, many of them were thread and fabric factories. Quite a few have been converted to residences or commercial usage.  Things have changed a lot and there are lots of people back here (when compared to our little town of St. Johns, AZ!).  We love that our area still has small stores, shops and cafes scattered around the various densely populated neighborhoods. We have been able to find and try out a few bakeries and ice cream shops!  In my mind, having those types of temporary short detour pathways in life can bring a lot of satisfaction!

Many experiences in our lives keep teaching us that our efforts to help others Come Unto Christ bring joy. Striving to follow the pathway of Jesus with our friends in this part of the world is very rewarding!  I am grateful for friends and family that have been and are great examples to me of choosing good pathways to follow, and to keep moving forward!

One of my favorite pieces of counsel I learned from Pres. Child, our mission leader when we served in west Texas:

“The Lord cannot guide our steps -- if we are not Steppin!”

May we all be blessed with spiritual wisdom to choose the best pathways….and then keep Steppin!       --NB

Comments

  1. Ken EricksonJanuary 1, 2026 at 3:38 PM

    Excited to learn and read about your new Mission adventures, Elder Brown (again) !! That is a beautiful part of the USA where you are serving. Enjoy every day. Are you proselyting, member support, working with young adults, or something else ?? I'm certain the locals are thrilled to have your support and experience.
    Remembering times in Stockholm in 1976.
    Ken Erickson

    ReplyDelete
  2. The Brown FamilyJanuary 1, 2026 at 4:56 PM

    Good to hear from you Alsdte Erickson---it is 50 years ago this winter / spring that we served together in Stockholm! We are serving as member leader support missionaries and have plenty of opportunities to help members and various friends that join with us each Sabbath.

    ReplyDelete

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