6 areas. 11 companions. 18 months.
Did I really just do that?!
What a ride this has been. I am so grateful for these last 18 months on my mission. They were so hard, but because they were hard, I grew so much. I have had some very crazy adventures and had to go without comforts that I definitely took advantage of when I was back home. Things like no water or electricity, handwashing clothes, and eating with my hands became completely normal. Huge spider or mouse in the room? No problem. Being the only white person at church? No problem. Being locked inside the house for a week? No problem. Looking back, I am so grateful that I experienced these things. It humbled me and helped me to relate better to the people. They were suffering from some of the same trials.
I have met some of the coolest people I've ever met in my whole life! Seeing the atonement change their lives gave me so much hope that Jesus Christ is the Savior of all mankind! I know that God loves all of his children, and that's why he sends missionaries to Zimbabwe. They have so much faith, and that's how I know that these people are going to be okay. The things that matter most to them is god and their families. With a country that is struggling in every other way possible; they know what they have is enough. They are so humble, and they love the gospel SO much. Before I came on my mission, I really prayed to find the people that Heavenly Father needed me to. I know that the people I met and taught were inspired by the Lord. And if I am being quite honest, I needed Zimbabwe and these sweet people more than they needed me. I am changed forever and am so grateful. I wish I could talk about them all, but there are just too many to count. I really created bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime! I will just have the rest of my life to share their stories and the miracles I saw on my mission.
I have a testimony of my savior Jesus Christ. I know he lives. I have felt his love and come to know him better than I have in my whole life. He knows us individually and will carry us when we cannot go any further. He helps us see people as Heavenly Father does, and to love those we feel that we could never love. This is the only true church on the face of the whole earth. Joseph Smith truly did see Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and through the gift and power of God, he translated the Book of Mormon. The Book of Mormon will bring us closer to Jesus than any other book! It brings us peace. The comfort I felt from the scriptures during all times in my mission made the biggest difference! The gospel brings joy. I have never been so happy in my whole life, serving a mission was the best 18 months for my life!
I hope I will be able to see you on Saturday... It was a very crazy week with church canceled, and coronavirus literally exploding. As far as I know, I will still be leaving the great Zimbabwe on Friday. I love you all! Thank you for the love and support from these last 18 months. Mom and Dad, I am on my way to come give you a BIGGGGGG hug! I will find a way to get back home. :)
Love, Sister Kershaw
No comments:
Post a Comment