It is difficult to believe that I have only been here a
week, though I am also amazed by how much can happen in one week.
Upon my arrival, I discovered that I have been assigned to
Branch 57, officially known as the Advanced Language Branch, but more commonly
known as the international branch. In my district, I am the only native English
speaker and only American. It is a melting pot that never ceases to be
exciting. When I first arrived, I was assigned to a threesome with Sister
Repotente from the Phillipines and Sister Thulasidass from India. It
appears that all of those Bollywood movies had a purpose! Sister Thulasidass is
having an interesting time adjusting to American culture, so I am grateful to
know at least a little of where she is coming from. However, the next day, I
was reassigned to be companions with Sister Gomez from Mexico. She is also
going to Italy, so it is nice to have someone to talk with and practice. She is
solid in the gospel and I am very happy to have her as my companion. As for our
entire district organization, it has been an example to me that Heavenly Father
has a plan for all things. We all care for each other, though another elder
from Sweden joined our district last night, so we are still getting to know
him. I have been called to serve as the Branch Music Director and am glad for
the opportunity to attend our branch's leadership trainings. Our Branch
President, President Marion, is a great leader. There are both pros and cons to
his personality with the international missionaries, as he doesn't leave anyone
to doubt what is right conduct and what is not. However, when he told one
district leader to tell a member of his district that if he received another
notice of him taking his backpack to the cafeteria from the MTC president, he
could cut off both of his legs below the knees, the district leader from South
Korea only offered a weak chuckle when President Marion asked if he knew that
he was just kidding.
The classes here are amazing. I am learning that our purpose
is not to teach lessons but to help individuals draw closer to Christ. God
already has a plan prepared for them and our job is to get in line with the
plan that He already has going. However, it is not only a time to learn but to mold
ourselves. Because of our setting apart, we are special witnesses of Christ. We
now have the opportunity to arise and fulfill that calling. It is a time for
humily and turning outwards. Any turning inwards to focus on yourself leads to
less connection with the guidance of the spirit. It can be stressful trying to
learn how to live so close to the spirit, but Sorella Gomez and I were reminded
during General Conference this weekend that there must also be room for joy.
We had a great opportunity for joy this morning as Sister
Repotente, Gomez and I joined Sister Thulasidass as she took out her endowments
at the Provo Temple. As I waited for her to join us in the Celestial Room, I
felt a strong witness that this is why I am here. She met the missionaries five
years ago and her life is completely changed forever. It is 18 months of my
life, but the joy and light in the lives of others will be for all eternity.
The conviction of the power of the truths of the gospel to bring hope and peace
into the lives of others is sinking into my soul. Now is the time to prepare,
but I look forward to the day that I will be able to share the good news. It is
the Lord's work and I am grateful that He has entrusted me to act as His
representative. I am learning more fully how to trust Him and open my heart to
His influence. In my own life, as well as the life of other missionaries,
members, and investigators, I am being prepared to expect miracles.
Thank you all for your thoughts of love and prayers for
suppoert. I feel their power.
Much love,
Sorella Lovell
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