[aserovey]

As I sat waiting for my husband to get out of a meeting at his job a man sat next to me and my 8 month old daughter. He noticed how well behaved she was and we began to talk. In less than an hours time we talked about raising children, the state of the country, the state of the schools, mother's staying at home with their children, children being able to learn form their parents even inside the womb, the list goes on. I couldn't believe how quickly and how easily the words came to me. This man had question after question about this life. I wanted to just hand him a Book of Mormon and show him all the answers. But I did not have one with me. I felt as though I was telling this man about a wonderful delicious dinner, that I told him of what was to be served, let him smell the food, and taste just a little of it. And then to walk away- never to see him again. What could I have done? How do you take a conversation with a complete stranger to having them learn more about the church? I have shared the gospel with co-workers and those that were close to me, but never someone I had no previous connection with.

[shannon_heslop]

Great job! Isn't it a great experience to have a conversation like that with someone. Did you ever specifically metion anything about the church? If so, it's easy to lead in and just casually say if they'd ever like to find out more, you'd be happy to talk with them again. If there is an interest, get their name and phone number. Those pass along cards are great to carry around (There have been some in the Ensigns from time to time or you can order them from church distribution). That would have been a perfect opportunity to give one out -- that leaves it up to them and also gives them something tangible to take away.
If you didn't bring it up, but have another opportunity like that in the future, it would be very easy to bring the church into the conversation, saying something like about how your church has really helped you with your family or something along those lines. You could mention a lesson or an activity or even a program that specifically helped you. If they ask further questions, just keep going. It sounds like you had the Spirit, since the words just came to you. That's how it works! I liked your analogy about the dinner.

[blossy]

I['m so glad that you felt like that when you were talking with that man. He must've been able to sense what a good person were.
Those pass along cards definitely come in handy. My partner and I don't have those at the moment but we always have a copy of the BOM in the glovebox for those moments you feel the need to hand a book to someone who is interested in the Gospel.

[babsandwoo]

As a non- christian, but spiritual person, i enjoy discussing and learning about other religions with people as i find it very very interesting, i do however find it overwhelming if i get given literature and invites to a particular place of worship, and it is very hard to say no for fear of letting people down or upsetting them

The best way i would say, is to mention which church you go to , and leave it at that, if they are searching for answers on their spiritual journey they will find you to answer their questions.

i hope i havent insulted anyone in posting this as it is certainly not my intention, i just felt compelled to post.

with love and best wishes

Sara XXX

[babydawn]

Originally Posted by babsandwoo

As a non- christian, but spiritual person, i enjoy discussing and learning about other religions with people as i find it very very interesting, i do however find it overwhelming if i get given literature and invites to a particular place of worship, and it is very hard to say no for fear of letting people down or upsetting them

The best way i would say, is to mention which church you go to , and leave it at that, if they are searching for answers on their spiritual journey they will find you to answer their questions.

i hope i havent insulted anyone in posting this as it is certainly not my intention, i just felt compelled to post.

with love and best wishes

Sara XXX

Not insulted at all. It is always good to hear an outsiders opinion...

[Firespice]

I think you did as you were lead to do. church officals say that most people are exposed to the church 4-6 times .... we like to call it planting the seed. and that is good too.

I love pass along cards, and have honestly never had the courage to give one out. I have mentioned when asked what church I attend. I never lie about that one. but sometimes if its not asked i dont offer. Yea i can be very intimidated about sharing.

Another thing that is a good conversation started is wearing a CTR ring.

Hugs and remeber its OK to just plant seeds as well.

suzie

[aserovey]

Thanks everyone for the input. I feel better about the situation now that I realize I was able to bear testimony and influence this man's life for the better. I am so glad to have somewhere to come and express myself. Thanks again.

[Firespice]

I see many people whom i know are looking for the church. but i can also see the blinders they are wearing. so in those cases I LOVE planting a seed and NOT mentioning what it means. most times people find out I am LDS and are impressed becuase they had so many things backwards about the teachings, and having gotten to know me BEFORE knowing i was LDS helped. becuase if they ahd known in the begain they would have dismissed what i said. but instead they just looked at me at someoen who had study my beliefs and can explain them.

i love being a tool like that. at least it breaks down prejudicies, if not converts them

hugs
suzie (who is glad to come here too)