July 1, 2013

Hi everyone! :D

 

I'm so grateful for this chance to be able to serve a mission here in Penticton, British Columbia!! The weather here is super gorgeous, its around 80 degrees, and super sunny! It rained for almost a week straight last week.. and it was suuuper depressing, so I'm SO glad that the sun still exists Lol Recently, there has been disastrous flooding in parts of central Alberta, thousands of homes have been lost, and some people have gone missing. Please everyone, keep those wonderful Canadians in your prayers! The Lord loves ALL his children, and allows natural things like this to happen in order for ALL of us to step up, and reach out to those in need, so that we can learn what it truly means to be like our Savior, Jesus Christ! 

 

I don't think I've ever had the honor to witness to men who embody the Pure  love of Christ than I have when spending time with my mission president, President Tilleman, or our Area 70, Elder Christiansen. These two men truly understand the significance of the work we are engaged in, and just how important it is turn to the Lord for all guidance  in regards to the welfare of his precious children. One particular experience I had with President Tilleman I'll share:

 

I Didn't realize how down I've been lately. The work in this area fluctuates a lot, almost from week to week, and sometimes its extremely difficult not to get discouraged. I've always been careful to be extremely optimistic about everything going on in my emails to president every week ( Or so I thought! Lol ), but I was carrying a heavy burden with me and I wasn't quite sure how I was going to change anything. I wasn't getting along with my companion all that well, I hurt the Bishop of the Ward's feelings, and worse yet, I didn't feel as if I was being a good example to my Junior companion and I was homesick often. I felt as if I had failed the Lord and was wasting his time. Then when I came in for an interview ( a rare opportunity mind you!) He sat me down and we talked for awhile. I mentioned as if I felt like I wasn't doing something right and he simply smiled at me sadly and said," I knew you've been feeling this way for awhile, even in your notes I could tell." That's when I started to cry. He offered me a blessing, and in the blessing were the words," Sister Kennedy you truly are a beloved daughter of our Heavenly Father, and these words are not simply comforting words of your mission president. These are the words of our Savior, saying he is PROUD of the work you've done, and you are developing, or already possess the qualities it takes to become a marvelous missionary.

 

Talk about wow. I certainly feel the atonement in my life. Thanks so much for all the support and love everyone! Keep praying for everyone in Alberta, and Don't forget to write! :D