A Little Lesson on a Rainy Day in Pompeii

Yes, it is best known for its rampant hedonism and wrath-of-God style destruction, but I still managed to learn a little lesson on a rainy day in the ancient city of Pompeii. We spent one day there back in January. It was a remarkable experience that I wish could have been longer, and drier.

Roads leading to Pompeii, and throughout the city were paved with large, flat stones. They have endured for thousands of years. The way the roads were structured byt he Romans allowed for water drainage, yet still allow pedestrians to cross them without having to slog through the water. They were wide enough for carts or carriages to pass through and were still remarkably smooth in some areas.

The thing that I found most interesting is that on some of the roads, the large, dark stones were interspersed with small white rocks known as “cat’s eyes.” Here is a picture:

The clever purpose of those white stones was to help travelers walk the road during the night. The white stones reflected the moonlight and effectively served the same purpose as reflectors on our modern highways.

The cat’s eyes helped the travelers two ways:

1. To know they were still on the right road, and
2. To help keep them from stumbling on the uneven ground.

I thought, “Wouldnt it be cool if the path of our lives had such things.”

May I present to you, General Conference.

This weekend we have an opportunity to listen to the Lord’s servants as they share light for us. If we listen, we can be blessed a many ways, two in particular;

1. To know we are on the right road, and
2. To help keep us from stumbling on uneven ground.

Life can get dark. When we listen to the prophets and other leaders who speak to us, we can check ourselves to see if we are on the same path as they are preaching. If we are not, it is time to reorient ourselves. The words of the prophets reflect the voice of our Savior.

Life can also be rough, and the ground beneath our feet can be rocky and unpredictable. The counsel we recieve can help guie us through those rough patches and help us keep our spiritual equilibrium.

What a mistake it would be to wander off on a darkened road when one is lit before us. Treating Conference weekend as a holiday or a “weekend off” from church is one of the most short-sighted things we can do, spiritually.

President Harold B. Lee encouraged us to let the conference talks “be the guide to their walk and talk during the next six months.” He explained, “These are the important matters the Lord sees fit to reveal to this people in this day.” (link)

President Russel M. Nelson simply stated, “Welcome to general conference and to the privilege of hearing the voice of the Lord.” (link)

In the midst of this hedonistic world, the path in front of us can be well-lit, by the voices reflecting the light of our Savior. Pay attention!

Have a wonderful weekend, and check back for my infamous Conference Notes.