They sit on the floor near our bench at the back door to the garage. We leave them there so we are able to just pick them up on our way out the door on our way to the temple.
If you look closely, you can see the accumulated dust on the top of each bag.
It has been 6 months since we've been to the temple.
Of all the things that have affected me most deeply during this pandemic and following quarantine, has been the fact that I have not been able to attend the temple. They have been closed.
I have felt a little lost; a little lonely; a little disconnected from such deep spiritual instruction that is only accessible in the temple. Yes, my scripture study and my prayers and my studies of other writings has helped to fill the void of most of that spiritual loss, but there are some experiences and teachings that can only be received by attending the temple. It's those that I have been longing for. Those that I am needing right now.
Some temples have been moved to Phase 2, where they are able to perform LIVING ordinances - marriages etc. But not very many. It still looks months off before we will be able to attend the temple again. That is such a sad thought for me. And it was most recently announced that there will be some additions and changes in some of the temple endowment when we return to our service in the temple. I'm anxious and interested in seeing what those changes may be.
The announcement to returning to the temple can't come soon enough for me. I need the comfort it brings me - I need the teachings and understandings it gives me - I need the reconnection with the covenants I have made. It's not that any of it is lost - they just feel - hm - dormant.
I just feel temple dormant.
Hmm..new phraseology.
