That Heavenly Father, he's one smart cookie...

I've been pondering the purpose of callings in the Church. In the traditional sense, a calling would be something life changing, a different path, that God revealed to someone. In the LDS Church, callings can last from a few months to years and years. There are some that people dread. And some that aren't so bad. I don't think I've ever heard anyone say they want such and such a calling. No one ever refers to a calling like it's a good thing.
Yet, callings are one of those huge, brilliant ideas from Heavenly Father. Not only do callings help get things done; trust me, Primary doesn't work if you don't have teachers called, but they give us a sense of purpose, a place to fill, people, nay friends to work with. I hate not having a calling. Give me something to do and someone to do it with! Most of the lasting friendships I have had are the result of a calling somewhere along the line.
Take nursery leaders, for example. Saints among men. If there are no nursery leaders, no nursery, no place for children ages 18 months to 3 years to go, thus their parents can't go to Sunday School, Relief Society, Elders Quorum. The parents can't teach their classes and do their callings. Without nursery leaders, the Church falls apart.
I can look back at every calling I have had and see the Lord's hand. I can see things I learned about myself, things I learned about God, friends I wouldn't have know otherwise, even things I have learned about my children.
I am grateful that every calling in the Church serves a purpose, whether it is for the benefit of others or for ourselves. We are truly blessed when we are called to serve.