18

[Camilla returns this week.  She will speak in our current ward at 11:00 on Sunday, December 14. (1700 East at about 9600 South in Sandy).  She will also speak in our former ward at 2:00 on that same day (about 89 East 11000 South in Sandy).

I really didn't think this day would come. 

It came way too fast, if you ask me. 

But it was a great week, and these next few days will be great, too. 

The baptism was wonderful. I feel so privileged to have been here for the grandmother's baptism, to have taught this girl back then, and then to come back and help the grandmother come back to church, and see the granddaughter baptized. It has been such a wonderful, moving experience and I really couldn't ask for anything better. 

The temple was amazing. The sacred grove was incredible. I didn't want to leave. The spirit was so strong, and I felt so at peace there. The sacred grove was different than I had ever seen it. Usually, you see it or have been to it when it is lush, and green, and warm. But, in my opinion, I saw a far more beautiful side to it.  All the trees were bare, and the leaves coated the ground. A light powder of snow covered the leaves, and the only way you could see the pathway was because of the footprints left from the people before. When we got there, it began to rain heavily, and it was mixed with a light snow. I sat on a bench and just listened to the rain fall. The bare trees towered above me, and I felt so, so at peace. And I knew that this was a place that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ had truly appeared. 

I seriously wish I had more time on my mission, but I know that coming home at this time is the Lord's plan for me. 

And I feel like I have learned a lot and changed a lot on my mission. 

I've learned the importance of charity, and recognizing everyone as a Child of God. Life is so much happier when you strive to love everyone. Even if you don't particularly LIKE someone, you can still treat them with respect and try to treat them in a way as Christ would. 

I've learned that Christ is the perfect example of who we should be and what we should do. 

I've learned that there is no greater thing that makes one happy than serving others.

I've learned that pure joy is found from repentance, and forgiveness from God, and forgiving others. 

I've learned that Heavenly Father knows you perfectly. He is so aware of not only your needs, but the needs of everyone around you, as well. His plan for his children not only will be the best plan for you, but for those around you, too. It's a perfect plan, even if you don't fully understand that plan.

I've learned that Jesus Christ's gospel was lost once on earth, but through a prophet of God, it is back again. I've learned how lucky and important it is that we have a prophet! And I've learned that this IS the true gospel, and it is the best gift on earth. 

I've learned that the Gospel of Jesus Christ really does bring a difference into lives. It brings peace. It rids of chaos. It brings order. It brings direction. It brings guidance. It brings joy. It brings understanding. It brings knowledge. It brings happiness. It brings others closer together, and closer to God. 

I've learned that the Book of Mormon IS another testament of Jesus Christ. I have seen it transform broken, hopeless souls into beautiful, confident lives. Only a true book from God could do that. 

I have learned to overcome the trials and setbacks set before me. And I have seen "weak things become strong." 

I know this gospel is true. 

And I wouldn't trade the experiences I've had on my mission for ANYTHING. I would do it again in a heartbeat. 

I don't regret a thing I've done on my mission. I've learned. I've grown. I've loved. I've served. 

I will miss this a lot. 

And the next step in my life will take a huge step of trust from God. 

Hurrah for Israel 

Sister Stimpson