I really have a hard time bringing up anything that has to do with the church or the gospel when I am with non members. For some reason, I’ve always feared that even bringing things up in casual conversation will seem like pushing my religion. However, I recognize that this is not true and I am working to improve on it. Recently, I hosted a candle party for someone I work with. As I was picking out what to order, I had a particular favorite, but hesitated to explain why it was my favorite to my coworker. After thinking about it for a few seconds, I finally did take the time to explain. The candle holder was set up so that two pieces of mirrored glass were on either side of a set of candles. The mirrors reflect the light on eternally, just like the mirrors in the sealing room of the temple. The candle holder’s name is “Infinite Reflections”, which is very fitting. I told my friend that I loved the holder because it reminded me of my wedding. I then briefly explained where I was married and how the mirrors in the temple work to my friend, and that it’s a symbol of how we can be together forever. My conversation wasn’t long, but her reaction was positive. She said, “Oh, how romantic”.
This just encourages me to be more open about sharing things so that people I am around can know more about what I believe and have more positive impressions about the gospel.