“Pro tanto quid retribuamus,”

 "What shall we give in return for so much?"

Came across this during my studies this week and I think it goes perfectly with the fact that it's a new year. Every single day this year I was able to put the name of Christ on my chest and represent Him in a very unique and special way. What a blessing it has been. This year I have struggled hard, laughed hard, cried really hard, and have loved every bit of it (for the most part, let's be real). Missions are hard they said, they weren't kidding. As hard as this year has been, I have seen growth in myself that only was through the atonement of Jesus Christ. He has given me so much and I came across this quote and continued to think about the change I've had because of Him. I want to give it Him my all this year especially when the tag comes off. He has carried me through this year, he has taken me up and molded me into the person I am today. I am better than I was a year ago, I am changed and that is because of Jesus Christ. So, what can I give in return this year?  I have some ideas, but they are between Him and I. And I think you all should do the same. Think about what you can give Him this year. Think about what He's given YOU. 

God puts people in our path for a reason!

I was able to go on one of the best exchanges this week. Sister Saafi was my comp for the day, and I love her so much! She is from Tonga and is learning English as well as being in her second transfer and then there's me, the old lady in the mission. I was excited to go with her into her area and experience missionary work with her. Sister Saafi taught me three very important things that day when I really needed them. The first being, smile always. Sister Saafi ALWAYS has a smile on her face, and I won't lie, for the past 2 months, I can't say I've smiled much. But she does and did. Sister Saafi found anything to giggle about and believe me, there was a lot to giggle about. We laughed hard and I felt like I was with the human form of sunshine. It felt good and I realized I need to smile more because there is so much to smile about! The second thing Sister Saafi taught me was to talk to literally everyone, like everyone. We would be in the car and someone next to us would have their window down and this sista would literally get out and give them a card which was lowkey sketchy but so fun. The third thing I learned from her was to find joy in the work and treat everyone as if Jesus died for them too because HE DID! I'm grateful for my sunshine angels in Heaven and here with me! I also learned Tongan which was so funny but don't ask me about it hehe. 

The roach 

So, the cockroaches are back?? Idk if they ever really left but they are BACK and they are NASTY! But I'm still taking tips from anyone so lmk If you got any! Roaches are my worst enemy. And the one we saw this week was literally so massive and he was climbin in our lamp! Pray that the roaches die! 

Del taco 

I don't remember if I talked about our friend Ray but he's literally the coolest human ever. He doesn't have a car currently, so we met up at the taco Bell and it was legendary. We taught Ray the restoration and although we were in a del taco, this lesson was one of the most spiritual restoration lessons ever. Ray knows it's true and is currently praying for a confirmation. I love Ray! Pray for Ray!