The Sand in the Hourglass

Time feels like it goes by exponentially faster every single day. I haven't updated you all in a while, but mission prep is going great!! My missionary portal training is at 90%. I think I'm going to try to get the sister missionaries in my ward to help me practice the lessons in chapter 3 of Preach My Gospel. :) I have had so many awesome experiences these past couple of weeks- blessings that I know are directly linked to my decision to serve a mission.

One such blessing has been overwhelming peace and confidence in my ever-approaching departure. Leaving you all, my friends and family, behind is not easy. I worry about you and feel anxious that I cannot be there to support and uplift you during your coming hardships and trials. I do have faith, however, that Christ can and will be there in my stead. He always is. My growing faith and this peace have come through the power of prayer. Pray as often as you can. Pray earnestly. Give thanks, express your hopes and desires, ask Him the questions that weigh on your minds, and pray to recognize His answers. Listen intently for His response. You will know the peace and joy that I have known, in spite of the uncertainty we all face.

Another blessing I have received is finding the blog of my Mission Mom! (My mission president's wife. :) ) There are all kinds of crazy stories, but it has helped me to feel so much more prepared and excited to serve. Here is the link for those of you who would like to learn more about mission life in Santiago:
http://beckydouglasparadise.blogspot.com/


My Mission Mom! She's so cute!! I hope she doesn't mind me borrowing her picture. :0)

My brother is off at the MTC in Provo, and it has been so good to hear from him!! He loves missionary life, and is having a total blast. :) Although I know it will be hard for my family, I am personally SO excited to serve at the same time as he does. I look forward to the experiences we will be able to relate with one another. I will have a blog set up for him before I leave (*cough* in ten days *cough*), so you all can read about his experiences first hand. :)

I have been able to feel the Spirit so much more lately. It has been less of a burning in the bosom and more of a gentle prompting and push from time to time. It has been so good to become familiar with the associated feelings of the Spirit. I think I am starting to better understand what it will be like to teach with the Spirit. I cannot wait!!!

I'm so grateful for all of the love and support you have shown me at this time. Thank you ALL!!! I will be having a final farewell open house Sunday, October 6th from 6:30-8pm at my parents' home. Please come and taste my appreciation via cookies. Feel free to impart any last bits of wisdom as well!! :)

All my love,
Hermana Harden