11 years ago

I have been reflecting back on my life. 11 years ago this month I entered the MTC to serve in the Illinois Peoria Mission. I remember the excitement and anticipation, as well as the hesitation and the fear I experienced. I remember singing "Called To Serve". I literally had chills as I sang out those words. I remember saying goodbye to my parents and walking through the doors into the training center as they exited through the doors to "the outside world". I remember seeing Mike in the MTC getting ready to go to the Australia Brisbane Mission. It was comforting to see a familiar face (though we were just friends at the time). I remember feeling so inadequate and discouraged. I remember doubting myself and wondering what I was thinking by serving a mission. I also remember the moment all that doubt was flushed away. I had prayed fervently to Heavenly Father, expressing all my doubt with my ability to serve in this capacity. He so very lovingly calmed my soul. I felt embraced by His love and surrounded with such incredible warmth. I knew in that moment that all would be well. I knew He had a purpose for me and that there were people I was going to touch. And how true that was.

My mission was a huge turning point in my life. I learned how to rely on the Spirit more. I learned the power of prayer. I learned how close our Father in Heaven really is to all of us. I gained a more powerful testimony of our Savior, and a greater love and appreciation for the Atonement. I learned so much more about Joseph Smith. I know I went to Illinois to have the opportunity to be where the early saints were and gain a greater appreciation for their sacrifices. I was able to spend time in Carthage, IL and Nauvoo, IL and be where they were and feel the Spirit that is there; it is so peaceful and so beautiful.

I also gained some of the best friends I have ever had and know those friendships will last for all eternity. I am so grateful for my mission companions who each taught me something of great value. I have carried those lessons with me throughout my life. Thank you to all you sweet ladies!

I am so grateful for the tender mercies of a loving Father who is forgiving. I know His love is unconditional. I know He knows my heart, that is so comforting. I am thankful for a loving Savior, even Jesus Christ. He knows me and you and loves us eternally. He is the way... the only way back to the Father. It is so clear to me. The path is narrow, but we can all be strengthened through Him, the Only Begotten.

I learned a lot in those 18 months. I am still learning every day. I have no doubt I will always be learning. It's what makes life interesting, and humbling. Now I get to learn from 4 of the most beautiful little people I know. I also learn so very much from a loving, gentle man; my best friend and companion of 8 wonderful years. There have been ups and there have been downs and yet, we seem to grow closer every day. The other day I was watching him and in that moment my heart welled up with such incredible love for him. I have those moments now and then where I sit back, look at my life and just relish the love I have for my husband and children. I can honestly say I am a blessed woman.