By Nettie H. Francis
The funds are low, and the debts are high, and you want to smile but you have to sigh.” (Anonymous) The world is in a crunch, a financial crisis that has now become an emotional and physical challenge for many families.

“In the olden days, when people needed assistance, neighbors and communities would band together and help out,” commented Bishop Doug Ritchie, former bishop of the Las Vegas Stake, Las Vegas 3rd Ward. “For example, if someone’s house burned down, everyone would come together, put out the fire and build a new one.” Today’s world is different, however, and many problems families face are unseen to their neighbors and friends. Financial difficulties encountered by otherwise self-reliant families are not always apparent, and even when detected, may not necessarily be as easy to solve as gathering neighbors to put out a fire or raise a barn. Therefore, members must find other ways to help those in need.

Bishop Ritchie shared his testimony of being sensitive to the needs of others in his current Tule Springs Stake, Iron Mountain Ward during a combined Relief Society/Priesthood meeting in December. When church ended that day, Bishop Ritchie and his family walked outside the chapel to go home and were surprised to see smoke billowing into the air just a few blocks away. Members who had just left the discussion on burning homes and barn-raisings jumped into action, running and driving towards the smoke. The burning house belonged to Brother and Sister Roberts, an elderly couple who were home at the time, yet were unaware of the danger they were in.

“Your house is on fire, get out!” warned one brother, and the Roberts safely exited. Members helped to carry out valuable possessions, saving what they could. When the fire department arrived, the entire house was engulfed in flames, and soon burned. Thankfully, the quick-acting members—still in their church clothes and dress shoes—helped save the Roberts and some of their important belongings. Strangely enough, the scenario Bishop Ritchie had just described minutes before had come to pass before their eyes.

“It was uncanny, but meaningful,” said Marleen Ritchie. “The very thing he had made reference to at church happened, and everyone jumped into action just like they should have.”

The assistance to the Roberts didn’t end with the after church crowd. President Scott Horlacher, their home teacher, suggested a 24 hour watch on the home and destroyed belongings in the days that followed. As “watchmen upon the tower”(D&C101:45), ward members continued their assistance.
Early the next morning, when Brother Jesus Gutierrez was watching the home, hot embers started another small fire. Luckily, Brother Gutierrez called 911 and the blaze was once again extinguished.

Just as Bishop Ritchie described before the incident, today’s fires –or challenges –are not always as visible as a burning building, yet still require attention and aid. How can we assist others, whether it’s our own lives or our neighbor’s lives that may be figuratively “on fire,” financially, spiritually or physically? Here are a few thoughts.

Don’t Despair

Although the phrase may seem trite, despair can become our worst enemy during difficult times. Remember that tragedies generally turn out to be blessings. Joseph sold into Egypt, Eve partaking of the fruit in the Garden of Eden, and Christ on the cross all appeared to be terrible ends. However, these events only led to something greater.

Many Hands

When Sister Elizabeth Gutierrez ran towards the Roberts’ fire, she was stopped by a city worker blocking the street. “I have to get over there,” insisted Sister Gutierrez. “Are you a Mormon?” asked the worker. “Yes,” Sister Gutierrez admitted. “I thought so,” he replied. “There are a lot of people in white shirts down there helping.”

While quilting bees and barn-raisings made major jobs easy in the past, many people can also ease the burdens of today. If your family is going through trying times, accept the help that’s offered.
Accepting aid can be difficult, especially for otherwise self-reliant families, but remember that a giver requires a gracious receiver. Also, tables turn quickly, and you may find yourself in a position to serve others more quickly than you anticipate. If the pioneers of old would have insisted on building their houses alone, we would not have the beautiful cities we enjoy today.

Home Fires

One of the best supports for families during difficult times is a mother in the home. Unfortunately, when times are tough financially, many mothers go back into the working world to try to make ends meet. When mothers leave their homes, however, disasters can occur which are worse than financial struggles. If circumstances permit, keep mother home. Going to work takes money, energy, nicer clothes, babysitters, and time spent away from family. When a mother is at home she becomes an unequivocal strength to her family. Not only is she a pro at using her resources and making dollars stretch, but her presence also provides emotional strength to her family members who go out to face the world each day. After a stressful day at work or school, nothing lifts spirits better than a home-cooked meal, a clean home, and a comfortable place to prepare for the next day of battle.
“Keeping the home fires burning” is not just a cute phrase of the past, it’s a real reminder of what a mother can be to those who depend on her.

A Burning in the Bosom

When the Roberts’ home was burning, the smoke signaled their needs to the surrounding neighborhood. Unfortunately, there may not be any smoke signals to let you know that a friend or neighbor is in need. However, we do have the direction of the Holy Ghost. Be sensitive to the spirit, and follow promptings to help others. Give financial aid, go for a visit, offer to help, or just listen.
Praying for friends or family in need of help is also a service. Put names on the temple prayer roll when it seems appropriate. We all know that it is usually through others that Heavenly Father meets our needs. Stay open to inspiration. Although barn raisings may be a thing of the past, service and support are never out of style.