I have found myself always wanting to serve a full-time mission. Everything about it seemed so amazing. Being able to spread the joy that I have learned and felt from the Gospel was strong within my heart. Allowing others the opportunity to experience the tremendous joy I have felt from living the life I do. Though it may be challenging at times, I have grown to learn that through all the bad times... The good will always out weigh them.
About two years ago, in the summer of 2011. I took the time to write over seventy-five missionaries. Asking them for their word of advice, wondering how they prepared for their mission and experiences they have had from going on one so far. Not many had replied, which I don't blame them for. But those that did had touched my heart greatly, helping me push forward to pursue the idea of going on a mission. Now at the time the age for a young woman to serve was twenty-one. I had a few years to prepare to leave. No rush, no worries.
My best friend left on his mission the following summer. Somehow I had gotten it in my head that I would be snatched up and married off once he returned, therefore a mission wasn't in my life plan....
But that mindset, didn't stay for very long.
October 2012, General Conference. Little did I know that my life plan would change so quickly. An age change for missionaries was announced. Young woman were now able to leave at the age of nineteen, the exact age I was turning in a month. My chance to go on a mission was NOW. :)
My mind was racing, confused on the new decision at hand. Thinking about it everyday, about what I was suppose to do. Finally, pulling myself out of the world and giving my mind time to think and actually ponder it out. I took a hike, finding a nice place to sit and simply enjoy the outdoors. Letting nature to its magic on calming my heart and soul. My mind thought and out of now where, the thought came to me. "The question isn't if you're going, it's when." That was strong in my mind and I knew that instant that a mission was the right place for me. It is not the duty of a young woman to serve a mission, therefore it is our choosing. No wrong to the decision made.
From there I have talked to my bishop, my stake president, and of course my parents. My papers were filled out in a month or so.
I have received the envelope, on Thursday, April 18, 2013, that holds my calling. When and where I will be serving for eighteen months.
I will be opening it Sunday, April 21, 2013. Surrounded by my family. :)
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