Family and Friends,
Well it's been another great week here in Korea and I am so grateful to be serving here with so many wonderful missionaries and members. The church in Korea just amazes me everyday as they have such willing hearts, great love, and a desire to be obedient. I am learning so much from each person I meet and I know God puts in our path specific people to help us and strengthen us. This week was a great a week although our investigators decided to quit meeting with us which is okay because no matter what the work of the Lord will always go on. Sister Hunter and I still had great experiences and still are just working our hardest to fulfill our purpose by drawing others closer to Christ. What I love about our missionary purpose is that it is not just focused on those who are not members of our church but it's focused on everyone, missionaries, members, nonmembers, all of God's children. Everyone needs strengthening and everyone deserves to feel God's love for them individually. Also it can be applied to everyone! We have the opportunity to draw people closer to Christ everyday through our actions, words, and example. I have found that there is no better way to invite people to Christ then through our own example of drawing closer to Him and accepting His invitation of coming unto Him and doing as He would do. As a missionary I am set apart to represent Jesus Christ. I wear His name on my chest everyday. This means I am set apart to become more like Jesus Christ everyday, to apply His teachings and gain His attributes of faith, hope, love, humility, virtue, obedience, diligence, and patience. This is what the mission is teaching me to become more like Christ and do as He would do as I walk down the street or meet with members or just live in my apartment. Being a missionary is great isn't it! But you don't have to be set apart to become like Christ everyday each of us can do our best at being like Him and because of His atonement we can improve daily and take step closer to becoming like Christ.
Sister Hunter and I on Monday orginally had an appointment with the Chinese lady but she cancelled. We were already for a member lesson and everything but it didn't work out but no worries because we took the opportunity to teach the member and strengthen our relationship with her. It was really fun and we did a practice lesson with her to practice teaching as well as our Korean. We ended up talking a lot about obedience and she just talked about different commandments and how sometimes she doesn't know why she is obedient she just is and that tesitfied to me her faithfulness, love and trust in the Lord. Sometimes we can't understand everything the Lord asks us of because He requires our faith and then He works according to our faith. She then invited us to stay and make dinner with her. It was great time to gain a stronger relationship with her and make memories. I am so grateful for the relationships I am building here in Korea. They will be forever lasting. I love the people here and it's an honor to be serving them.
Wedensday we were able to meet with a cute less active family. This family is just amazing and I don't understand why they are less active but Sister Hunter and I continueto visit building relationships with them and sharing our testimony of the church. The dad is really hard to understand and he knows that most the time he is talking we have no idea what he is saying so he finally asked us "If you can't understand how can you do this missionary work?" This the ngave us the perfect opportunity to share our testimonies of the Spirit and how when the Lord gives a commandment He will not allow us to fail as long as we do all we can to be faithful and trust in Him. Through the Spirit of the Lord we are able to do what we need to do as long as we are willing. It's like Nephi in Chapter 3 verse 7. Nephi showed God is willingness to do whatever He asked and then trusted in Him to send His spirit to guide Nephi so that he could accomplish what the Lord asked. Through the Spirit Sister Hunter and I are able to accomplish our purpose everyday by being obedient and living worthy of the Holy Ghost's companionship. Although we can't understand every word when someone is speaking to us the spirit can. We have been given the call from the Lord to preach this gospel in the Korean language and that is exactly what we are doing. Each day we are being taught from the Most High through the Spirit. There is no greater learning experience then what I am living right now.
I know I mention this probably every transfer that I am able to go to the temple and this week I did. I am so grateful for the temple and the blessings that we can recieve there. I have grown such a love for the temple over the past year that I cannot describe. Everytime I enter I am filled with a peaceful feeling of love because I know that it is our Heavenly Father's home and I can feel His love there. Everytime I go I realize that the temple and the way we feel is reality. The world we live in is not with all the distractions and difficulties of feeling the Spirit. We should always be striving to live so that feeling we recieve from the temple jsut becomes a part of us and we can be in the world but not of the world. When all the missionaries are gathered in the temple there truly is a special spirit and I am so grateful to be apart of it. Tears roll down my eyes everytime I hear prayers offered for the missionaries around the world because I then realize how many prayesr are headed my way to have succes, to be safe and to have the spirit always with me. Thank you for all your prayers in my behalf they strengthen me and determine me to work harder to your prayers are answered.
Sister Lyman and I went on an exchange this weekend and it was a dream come true. We were in the MTC together and we always talked about how great it would be if we lived or even served together and here we are in 금천. I am so grateful for her and her example. She has such a powerful testimony and fun personality. She told me about the Invite the Spirit box in Chapter 10 of PMG Tour. I have read that box I don't know how many times but this time she it clicked that it doesn't have to be applied only to teaching but to my everyday life. Knowing that I can apply that box everyday in every situation with my companion as well as other missionaries and people on the street changed my outlook on having the spirit with me. I know that as I continue to pray, share experiences with other, share scriptures, express my love for my Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ, and bear my testimony frequently I truly can always invite the spirit into my life at all time. My life is beginning be based on that small box and those 5 simple things so that I can always enjoy the blessing of the Spirit and the constant companionship of the Spirit.
This week was full of scriptures as I am striving to finish the Book of Mormon by the end of the transfer and I want to share one specific scripture that I loved. Alma 33:23 says "your burdens may be light through the joy of the Son of God." Christ can and will lift our burdens. he will strengthen us and knowing we have His support and help will always bring us joy. He is always there and we can always rely on our Savior Jesus Christ for help, comfort, joy and strength. I love the scriptures and am so grateful for the testimony I have gained through them. The scripture especially the Book of Mormon has give me so much guidance comfort and encouragement. I wish before my mission I would have realized what a blessing the scriptures are and what they really contained but I have now learned and I will turn to them in all my times of need for joy, encouragement, peace, comfort, and help. I am learning so much as a misisonary and I coudn't be more grateful.
Thank you for all your love and support! I love you and miss each of you! I pray for you daily and think of you often. I love being a missionary and I know this is the Lord's work! I hope you each have a wonderful week full of smiles and memories! Always remember the Lord each and everyday and thank Him for all the blessings of each day because there are many!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Heart Mind and Seoul Korea
I am 19 years old and called to serve in the Korea Seoul South Mission as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I would like to thank all who have shown their love and support throughout this life changing journey of mine.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Letter - 9/22/14
September 22, 2014
Dear Family and Friends,
Well another week has come and gone! My companion and I are trying to figure out where September went because it's almost over and I can't believe it. Fun fact about September-- last year September 26th I left for Europe and had the time of my life and then two years ago I left for Africa with Mallory and now in September 2014 I am in Korea! What amazing memories and opportunities I have been given and I thank my family for all the support, love, and prayers they have given me through all my crazy adventures. I especially thank my parents because I could not have done any of this without their help, love, support and encouragement.
This week was so memorable Sister Hunter and I saw miracles like crazy! Three major ones that I want to share! Then we played a super fun prank on our roommates and then visited Seoul Grand Park with a lady we exercise with every morning! It was such an exciting week and I am so happy and excited to share it with you all so ENJOY!!
SEOUL GRAND PARK So every morning us sisters go out behind our apartment and exercise at a school field and every morning there is a sweet lady who exercises with us. About two weeks ago she invited us to go on a picnic with her so that's what happened this week. All 4 of us went to the Seoul Grand Park and had a picnic with 김보영 (Boyoung Kim). She is the cutest lady and she was so happy to be spending this time with us. She is currently fighting cancer and her husband is in a hospital far from here so she is living alone. We had such a memorable time and we just love her so much! It was so fun to spend that time with her and build a friendship with her that could maybe lead to her wanting to learn more about us as missionaries. I am so grateful for the people I meet everyday and how after a while we just become a part of the neighborhood here in Korea and people look forward to seeing us and saying hello to us. It is such a blessing.
PRANK So our sweet roommates Sister Lyman and Sister Hammerl are the Sister Training Leaders in our Zone so they have to go on lots of splits. This particular split they both went to the other sister's area and so we were left in 금천 (Geumcheon) all alone so we had to do something to show our love. So Sister Hunter and I went to the store and bought maybe 300 paper cups for our wonderful plan. After planning that night we started laying the cups out on the floor and filling them with water. This made it so when the sisters came home they couldn't get into their study room. We covered a good portion of their floor with cups and then spelled out love you in Korean out of cups with a little letter that said "We missed you so much that we cried all night and to prove it we caught all our tears in these cups." Yeah it was such a party! Sister Hunter and I had way too much fun doing this and the Sisters died when they saw it! It was so fun!
MIRACLE #1 Last week when I emailed I told you about the chinese lady who asked us if she could give us her number but we hadn't heard back from her. Well about 2 hours after emailing we got a random call from a weird number and sure enough it was her. She apologized and said she had been busy but we were able to set up an appointment because she really wants to learn about the Book of Mormon! It was a miracle and Sister Hunter and I were so happy. Her name is 임정자. We ended up meeting with her on Saturday and she is now a new investigator and will be meeting with her today! She has so much interest in the Book of Mormon and has studied the Bible her whole life. When we taught her for the first time our focus was why we need the Book of Mormon. We shared certain scriptures with her that were similar to what she was telling us about the Bible. She was telling us about the parable of the grain of mustard seed and faith. We then turned to Alma 32 and read that with her. At first she read it to herself and said some of it is right but not all but we had her read it again out loud. When she did that she said "Oh that is right. Why do I need this book? It is exactly like the Bible. Having two books will make my head hurt." Sister Hunter and I just bore testimony and invited her to begin reading because we know that through reading it the Spirit will manifest to her the truth of the Book of Mormon and she said she would! She said as she looked at the Book of Mormon that it is a good book and she wants to come to know it better like the Bible. She then told us why she met with us. She said when we said hello to her on the street she thought we were beautiful but it wasn't our outside beauty that caught her attention. She said because the light in our eyes was beautiful, so she wanted to meet with us. I am so grateful to know that the Light of Christ is shining through me. Each day I go out just hoping someone will recognize that light and their spirit will jump just a little to catch their attention and desire to have that same light. It was so neat to teach her and I can just see her now reading the Book of Mormon. We will be meeting with her today so pray for Sister Hunter and I!!!
MIRACLE #2 Sister Hunter and I have continued the role play on the street and our testimony of that just continues to be strengthened everyday! Each day we set a meaningful activity for each hour of the day so this particular day we had lots of time on the street so one of our meaningful activities was to focus on the Book of Mormon and give one away. As we walked the streets we role played to each other back and forth different situations we could have. I initiated one where I asked Sister Hunter what the book was that was in her hand. It was fun haha Well once we finished that role play about 10 minutes later we were walking the street and I saw this old and I mean old man, about to bend over to pick up a piece of garbage but I was worried that he was going to break so I quickly went to pick it up but he beat me to it. Well later we found out he is old! He said he was 93!! But when he saw us after I bent down with him he looked into our eyes and was just so happy. Just picture a 93 year old Korean old man with no teeth. He was the cutest. He looked at us and the book that was in Sister Hunter's hand (Book of Mormon of course) caught his attention and he asked to see it. We gave it to him and tried to talk to him but we couldn't understand him and he couldn't understand us but he was so excited and kept saying "This is good! This is good! Another Testament of Jesus Christ! This is so good!" It was so cool. We couldn't stay long though because we had another appointment so we said our goodbyes and we told him the book was a gift. He looked into our eyes, no I think he was reading my soul but he sincerely thanked us with the biggest smile on his face. It was such an amazing experience. So we went to our appointment but it cancelled so we went back to the same road where we met this sweet old man and he was still standing there on the street looking through the Book of Mormon. It had been like 15 minutes too! It was so neat though to see someone appreciate the book just as much as I do. Because we couldn't understand him that well we couldn't get his number or his address but we are committed this week to walk that street every night putting our faith in God that He will allow us to meet again. I just love all these special experiences I am having. I know Heavenly Father is aware of my efforts and as Sister Hunter and I continue to exercise our faith each day working diligently He answers our prayers and allows us to fulfill our purpose!
MIRACLE #3 So this week we had President interviews at the mission office so Sister Hunter and I had to travel about 2 hours to get there and then 2 hours to get back. When we were traveling home we were leaving the last subway station and went out an exit that we usually don't go out of. Actually I have never been out of that exit and we had no idea where we were but we just continued to follow the crowd leaving the subway station. As we were going down the escalator there were some salesmen type people selling magazines which is normal so we continued walking. Just as we are about to cross the street we here "MISSIONARIES" so we turn around and this man is running after us, so we go to him. He asks us if we are a part of the LDS church but he says that old translation of the church's name but we recognize it. Well come to find out he was baptized into a ward some years ago but then he left to China for 11 years and never could find the church due to the new translation of the name. When he saw us he knew we were the missionaries for his church. He continued to tell us that he wasn't living in this area but a different area so he gave us his number so that we could send his number to the Elders where he was living! I could tell how badly he wanted to go to church and how diligently he had been searching for it. I am just so grateful that we went through that exit at that time. When we said good bye I was just full of the spirit and knew that was the reason we went that way so we could find that member. It's so powerful to see how Heavenly Father guides our work and leads us to places that we normally don't go but later find out we were meant to be there. I just love this missionary opportunity I am having and the strength that I receive each day to continue to go forward in faith and trust in God.
I just want you all to know that all these amazing things are happening because of Heavenly Father. I am still Sister Driscoll who can't speak very good Korean but Heavenly Father is blessing me everyday to see miracles and tender mercies. It is amazing how my eyes have been opened to see His hand in my life in even the smallest ways. I am so grateful that I know that He is on my side and as long as I have the willing heart to go, do, and love like Nephi then Heavenly Father will not allow me to fail. I am so happy being a missionary and serving amongst the Korean people. Everyday I am filled with just that much more love for these people and their culture. I love serving the Lord. I know that He loves these people and is preparing each of them one by one to hear the message of this gospel. I want to thank each of you for your love, support, emails, letters, and encouragement. I am motivated everytime I think of all of you back home cheering me on and because I love each of you. Thank you. I hope you have a wonderful week full of smiles and miracles! Keep smiling and open your eye just a little wider to see the hand of the Lord in your life!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Dear Family and Friends,
Well another week has come and gone! My companion and I are trying to figure out where September went because it's almost over and I can't believe it. Fun fact about September-- last year September 26th I left for Europe and had the time of my life and then two years ago I left for Africa with Mallory and now in September 2014 I am in Korea! What amazing memories and opportunities I have been given and I thank my family for all the support, love, and prayers they have given me through all my crazy adventures. I especially thank my parents because I could not have done any of this without their help, love, support and encouragement.
This week was so memorable Sister Hunter and I saw miracles like crazy! Three major ones that I want to share! Then we played a super fun prank on our roommates and then visited Seoul Grand Park with a lady we exercise with every morning! It was such an exciting week and I am so happy and excited to share it with you all so ENJOY!!
SEOUL GRAND PARK So every morning us sisters go out behind our apartment and exercise at a school field and every morning there is a sweet lady who exercises with us. About two weeks ago she invited us to go on a picnic with her so that's what happened this week. All 4 of us went to the Seoul Grand Park and had a picnic with 김보영 (Boyoung Kim). She is the cutest lady and she was so happy to be spending this time with us. She is currently fighting cancer and her husband is in a hospital far from here so she is living alone. We had such a memorable time and we just love her so much! It was so fun to spend that time with her and build a friendship with her that could maybe lead to her wanting to learn more about us as missionaries. I am so grateful for the people I meet everyday and how after a while we just become a part of the neighborhood here in Korea and people look forward to seeing us and saying hello to us. It is such a blessing.
PRANK So our sweet roommates Sister Lyman and Sister Hammerl are the Sister Training Leaders in our Zone so they have to go on lots of splits. This particular split they both went to the other sister's area and so we were left in 금천 (Geumcheon) all alone so we had to do something to show our love. So Sister Hunter and I went to the store and bought maybe 300 paper cups for our wonderful plan. After planning that night we started laying the cups out on the floor and filling them with water. This made it so when the sisters came home they couldn't get into their study room. We covered a good portion of their floor with cups and then spelled out love you in Korean out of cups with a little letter that said "We missed you so much that we cried all night and to prove it we caught all our tears in these cups." Yeah it was such a party! Sister Hunter and I had way too much fun doing this and the Sisters died when they saw it! It was so fun!
MIRACLE #1 Last week when I emailed I told you about the chinese lady who asked us if she could give us her number but we hadn't heard back from her. Well about 2 hours after emailing we got a random call from a weird number and sure enough it was her. She apologized and said she had been busy but we were able to set up an appointment because she really wants to learn about the Book of Mormon! It was a miracle and Sister Hunter and I were so happy. Her name is 임정자. We ended up meeting with her on Saturday and she is now a new investigator and will be meeting with her today! She has so much interest in the Book of Mormon and has studied the Bible her whole life. When we taught her for the first time our focus was why we need the Book of Mormon. We shared certain scriptures with her that were similar to what she was telling us about the Bible. She was telling us about the parable of the grain of mustard seed and faith. We then turned to Alma 32 and read that with her. At first she read it to herself and said some of it is right but not all but we had her read it again out loud. When she did that she said "Oh that is right. Why do I need this book? It is exactly like the Bible. Having two books will make my head hurt." Sister Hunter and I just bore testimony and invited her to begin reading because we know that through reading it the Spirit will manifest to her the truth of the Book of Mormon and she said she would! She said as she looked at the Book of Mormon that it is a good book and she wants to come to know it better like the Bible. She then told us why she met with us. She said when we said hello to her on the street she thought we were beautiful but it wasn't our outside beauty that caught her attention. She said because the light in our eyes was beautiful, so she wanted to meet with us. I am so grateful to know that the Light of Christ is shining through me. Each day I go out just hoping someone will recognize that light and their spirit will jump just a little to catch their attention and desire to have that same light. It was so neat to teach her and I can just see her now reading the Book of Mormon. We will be meeting with her today so pray for Sister Hunter and I!!!
MIRACLE #2 Sister Hunter and I have continued the role play on the street and our testimony of that just continues to be strengthened everyday! Each day we set a meaningful activity for each hour of the day so this particular day we had lots of time on the street so one of our meaningful activities was to focus on the Book of Mormon and give one away. As we walked the streets we role played to each other back and forth different situations we could have. I initiated one where I asked Sister Hunter what the book was that was in her hand. It was fun haha Well once we finished that role play about 10 minutes later we were walking the street and I saw this old and I mean old man, about to bend over to pick up a piece of garbage but I was worried that he was going to break so I quickly went to pick it up but he beat me to it. Well later we found out he is old! He said he was 93!! But when he saw us after I bent down with him he looked into our eyes and was just so happy. Just picture a 93 year old Korean old man with no teeth. He was the cutest. He looked at us and the book that was in Sister Hunter's hand (Book of Mormon of course) caught his attention and he asked to see it. We gave it to him and tried to talk to him but we couldn't understand him and he couldn't understand us but he was so excited and kept saying "This is good! This is good! Another Testament of Jesus Christ! This is so good!" It was so cool. We couldn't stay long though because we had another appointment so we said our goodbyes and we told him the book was a gift. He looked into our eyes, no I think he was reading my soul but he sincerely thanked us with the biggest smile on his face. It was such an amazing experience. So we went to our appointment but it cancelled so we went back to the same road where we met this sweet old man and he was still standing there on the street looking through the Book of Mormon. It had been like 15 minutes too! It was so neat though to see someone appreciate the book just as much as I do. Because we couldn't understand him that well we couldn't get his number or his address but we are committed this week to walk that street every night putting our faith in God that He will allow us to meet again. I just love all these special experiences I am having. I know Heavenly Father is aware of my efforts and as Sister Hunter and I continue to exercise our faith each day working diligently He answers our prayers and allows us to fulfill our purpose!
MIRACLE #3 So this week we had President interviews at the mission office so Sister Hunter and I had to travel about 2 hours to get there and then 2 hours to get back. When we were traveling home we were leaving the last subway station and went out an exit that we usually don't go out of. Actually I have never been out of that exit and we had no idea where we were but we just continued to follow the crowd leaving the subway station. As we were going down the escalator there were some salesmen type people selling magazines which is normal so we continued walking. Just as we are about to cross the street we here "MISSIONARIES" so we turn around and this man is running after us, so we go to him. He asks us if we are a part of the LDS church but he says that old translation of the church's name but we recognize it. Well come to find out he was baptized into a ward some years ago but then he left to China for 11 years and never could find the church due to the new translation of the name. When he saw us he knew we were the missionaries for his church. He continued to tell us that he wasn't living in this area but a different area so he gave us his number so that we could send his number to the Elders where he was living! I could tell how badly he wanted to go to church and how diligently he had been searching for it. I am just so grateful that we went through that exit at that time. When we said good bye I was just full of the spirit and knew that was the reason we went that way so we could find that member. It's so powerful to see how Heavenly Father guides our work and leads us to places that we normally don't go but later find out we were meant to be there. I just love this missionary opportunity I am having and the strength that I receive each day to continue to go forward in faith and trust in God.
I just want you all to know that all these amazing things are happening because of Heavenly Father. I am still Sister Driscoll who can't speak very good Korean but Heavenly Father is blessing me everyday to see miracles and tender mercies. It is amazing how my eyes have been opened to see His hand in my life in even the smallest ways. I am so grateful that I know that He is on my side and as long as I have the willing heart to go, do, and love like Nephi then Heavenly Father will not allow me to fail. I am so happy being a missionary and serving amongst the Korean people. Everyday I am filled with just that much more love for these people and their culture. I love serving the Lord. I know that He loves these people and is preparing each of them one by one to hear the message of this gospel. I want to thank each of you for your love, support, emails, letters, and encouragement. I am motivated everytime I think of all of you back home cheering me on and because I love each of you. Thank you. I hope you have a wonderful week full of smiles and miracles! Keep smiling and open your eye just a little wider to see the hand of the Lord in your life!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Letter - 9/14/14
Dear Family and Friends,
Happy 추속!!! Which was actually last Monday but all the missionaries celebrated on Tuesday at a big mission conference which was full of food, talents, and fun activities. 추속 is like our Thanksgiving and is a time where the Koreans honor the harvest as well as their ancestors. In Korea there are only two big holidays and they are both based on the Lunar Calender so we celebrate Thankgiving around September and then the New Year the beginning of February. It's super fun as they make traditional food and wear their traditional clothing. Everyone celebrates so the cities aren't quite as busy. For our mission conference we all just enjoyed some training from President Morrise's mission president President Han. He taught us about Chinese Characters and how they flow with Korean and really tell us who the Korean people are. The Asian culture is so interesting and I am so excited to be living amongst it and learning of it daily. I am so grateful that we had the big conference as I was able to see so many of the friends that I have made here who have made me a better person. I cannot thank my Heavenly Father enough for the examples He has put in my path to help me become who He wants and needs me to become. I love being apart of the Korea Seoul South Mission and serving the Lord in a very choice land.
This week Sister Hunter and I had lots of fun and learned a lot. Due to the fact that we don't have investiagtors we have spent a lot of time on the street talking with people. At our conference we has Presidnet MOrrise encouraged us all to be speaking more Korean and really diligently enhance our language abilities so Sister Hutner and I took on the challenge. While walking on the street if there is no one to talk to we are either memorizing scriptures or role playing a situation that we will have on the street. As we did that role playing different situations Heavenly Father saw our effrots and kindly putin our path people where the role play actually became real life. One particular role play we were talking about the Book of Mormon and it led to Sister Hunter asking for my number. After she asked for my number not even 15 second after we said hello to a sweet lady sitting on the side of the street and she quickly asked "Are you Church people?" We quickly said yes and she asked "Would it be okay if I gave you my number?" WHAT?? We stood in shock and were thinking well of course because that never happens. Our testimonies grew because when we are focused on our purpose God will put people in our paths to show us that He is watching us and is aware of our efforts. The next day we contacted the lady and she said that it was not a coincidence that we met so we offered our time to her and asked if we could meet. We haven't heard back from her though. I am sad about that but I will never forget that experience. I know that as I continue to role play and prepare myself for all types of situations Heavenly Father will allow them to happen in real life and I will continue to be able to see His hand in my life.
I was reading in Alma 8 this week when Alma and Amulek meet. Alma just finished being rejected, spit upon, scolded and persecuted in the land of Ammonihah but the Lord tells him to go back. I can't imagine going back to a place where no one is accepting you but Alma obeys and a great blessing was given to him which was Amulek who was prepared to recieve Alma a prophet of the Lord into his home to hear the gospel. Sure it is not easy to find those prepared people but they are around you and me everyday we just have to open our eyes and see what God sees. I know this is the Lord's work and He prepares people all of the world to hear and accept His gospel. I know like Alma if I am faithful, obedient, and diligently working I have every reason to rejoice. I am serving the Lord and life doesn't get much better then that. After reading about this Sister Hunter and I recieved as referral from the elders in our area! We made an appointment and were able to have a new investigator! Her name is 신나리. She is mainly interested in English but she has many questions about life and a lot of her questions are those questions of the soul listed in PMG Chapter 5: The Book Of Mormon. She told us that she knows she needs God in her life and that if she really let Him in and found the good that He would cause in her life she would change accordingly. She really opened up to us her concerns and it was really nice because now we know where to start teaching and really how to help her make these changes in her life that will lead her to the everlasting happiness that she is searching for. She definitely seems to be a person that will allow the gospel change her life. It's not going to be easy but I know the Lord will guide us and her to help her recognize His love for her. I am so grateful that we were able to meet her. It has been so long since we had taught a lesson so it was so great and amazing to have the experience and we are really seeking her needs and applying each of our studies how we can help her feel more peace and comfort about life in general. I know that as we focus on her needs we will be able to find them and the change will be able to happen as we apply the gospel to her life and help her find that love the God has for her.
This past month I have been studying the Christlide attribute of faith and learned so much. Faith is really the foundation of our lives but as our faith is centered on Jesus Christ we find peace, happiness, and hope. In Helaman 5:47 it says, " Peace, peace be unto you, because of your faith in my Well Beloved, who was from the foundation of the world." If we have true faith in our Savior Jesus Christ all we should ever feel is peace. Sometimes that is hard because as Elder Andersen stated in the April General Conference we all have our own spiritual whirlwinds that can cause our faith to tremble. Helaman 5:12 then states that the storms of life will come and that is why it is so imporatant for us to build upon the Rock, our Savior Jesus Christ. He is where our safety lies. "Challenges will come to us but as we trust in God they will strengthen our faith." (Elder Andersen). We can go forward with faith each day because we have a loving Father in Heaven who sent His Son Jesus Christ to this earth and bear all challenges, all afflictions, all pains, all disappointments, all sorrows. He knows us and knows our trials but as we have faith in Him we can find that peace and that through Jesus Christ we can meet our challenges, be strengthened and know that we cannot be overcome by the world because He is on our side. With faith we can always go on. Elder Russel M. Nelson then stated "There is only ONE in whom our faith is always safe, the Lord Jesus Christ." I know that as we continue to exercise our faith it will strengthen and we will have a bright hope for our future and have no need to fear. Heavenly Father is mindful of each of us and our faith. He is aware of our situations and loves each of us enough to help us strengthen our faith through different experiences that will help us grow. I know that as we acto on our faith in Jesus Christ we will be able to notice the Lord's hand in our lives and face this world with courage. Trusting in God is all that is needed. He knows us and knows what is best for us. I love this gospel. I know that as I continue to exercise faith in my Savior Jesus Christ my relationship with Him will grow stronger and I will be able to face anything with faith and trust becaue I know that He is on my side.
Thank you to all of you for the letters, emails, and packages. I feel so much love from each of you! Thank you for your support, prayers and love. I don't know what I would do without all of your strength and good examples. Each of you push me to be a better person and reach my full potential. I love being a missionary and the many experiences I am having that are teaching me to be strong and rely on the Lord. I love the Korean people and it is an honor to be serving here. I know that Heavenly Father is my Father and that He loves me. I know that Jesus Christ lives and He is my Savior. I know what I am doing is the Lord's work and each day He is making me a tool in His great and marvelous work. I love this time in my life and am cherishing all that Heavenly Father throws my way. I love each of you and miss you but I know that Heavenly Father is taking better care of you then I ever could. Have great week! Don't forget to smile! Don't forget the blessing of each day! Don't forget to go forth with Faith!
Love
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Happy 추속!!! Which was actually last Monday but all the missionaries celebrated on Tuesday at a big mission conference which was full of food, talents, and fun activities. 추속 is like our Thanksgiving and is a time where the Koreans honor the harvest as well as their ancestors. In Korea there are only two big holidays and they are both based on the Lunar Calender so we celebrate Thankgiving around September and then the New Year the beginning of February. It's super fun as they make traditional food and wear their traditional clothing. Everyone celebrates so the cities aren't quite as busy. For our mission conference we all just enjoyed some training from President Morrise's mission president President Han. He taught us about Chinese Characters and how they flow with Korean and really tell us who the Korean people are. The Asian culture is so interesting and I am so excited to be living amongst it and learning of it daily. I am so grateful that we had the big conference as I was able to see so many of the friends that I have made here who have made me a better person. I cannot thank my Heavenly Father enough for the examples He has put in my path to help me become who He wants and needs me to become. I love being apart of the Korea Seoul South Mission and serving the Lord in a very choice land.
This week Sister Hunter and I had lots of fun and learned a lot. Due to the fact that we don't have investiagtors we have spent a lot of time on the street talking with people. At our conference we has Presidnet MOrrise encouraged us all to be speaking more Korean and really diligently enhance our language abilities so Sister Hutner and I took on the challenge. While walking on the street if there is no one to talk to we are either memorizing scriptures or role playing a situation that we will have on the street. As we did that role playing different situations Heavenly Father saw our effrots and kindly putin our path people where the role play actually became real life. One particular role play we were talking about the Book of Mormon and it led to Sister Hunter asking for my number. After she asked for my number not even 15 second after we said hello to a sweet lady sitting on the side of the street and she quickly asked "Are you Church people?" We quickly said yes and she asked "Would it be okay if I gave you my number?" WHAT?? We stood in shock and were thinking well of course because that never happens. Our testimonies grew because when we are focused on our purpose God will put people in our paths to show us that He is watching us and is aware of our efforts. The next day we contacted the lady and she said that it was not a coincidence that we met so we offered our time to her and asked if we could meet. We haven't heard back from her though. I am sad about that but I will never forget that experience. I know that as I continue to role play and prepare myself for all types of situations Heavenly Father will allow them to happen in real life and I will continue to be able to see His hand in my life.
I was reading in Alma 8 this week when Alma and Amulek meet. Alma just finished being rejected, spit upon, scolded and persecuted in the land of Ammonihah but the Lord tells him to go back. I can't imagine going back to a place where no one is accepting you but Alma obeys and a great blessing was given to him which was Amulek who was prepared to recieve Alma a prophet of the Lord into his home to hear the gospel. Sure it is not easy to find those prepared people but they are around you and me everyday we just have to open our eyes and see what God sees. I know this is the Lord's work and He prepares people all of the world to hear and accept His gospel. I know like Alma if I am faithful, obedient, and diligently working I have every reason to rejoice. I am serving the Lord and life doesn't get much better then that. After reading about this Sister Hunter and I recieved as referral from the elders in our area! We made an appointment and were able to have a new investigator! Her name is 신나리. She is mainly interested in English but she has many questions about life and a lot of her questions are those questions of the soul listed in PMG Chapter 5: The Book Of Mormon. She told us that she knows she needs God in her life and that if she really let Him in and found the good that He would cause in her life she would change accordingly. She really opened up to us her concerns and it was really nice because now we know where to start teaching and really how to help her make these changes in her life that will lead her to the everlasting happiness that she is searching for. She definitely seems to be a person that will allow the gospel change her life. It's not going to be easy but I know the Lord will guide us and her to help her recognize His love for her. I am so grateful that we were able to meet her. It has been so long since we had taught a lesson so it was so great and amazing to have the experience and we are really seeking her needs and applying each of our studies how we can help her feel more peace and comfort about life in general. I know that as we focus on her needs we will be able to find them and the change will be able to happen as we apply the gospel to her life and help her find that love the God has for her.
This past month I have been studying the Christlide attribute of faith and learned so much. Faith is really the foundation of our lives but as our faith is centered on Jesus Christ we find peace, happiness, and hope. In Helaman 5:47 it says, " Peace, peace be unto you, because of your faith in my Well Beloved, who was from the foundation of the world." If we have true faith in our Savior Jesus Christ all we should ever feel is peace. Sometimes that is hard because as Elder Andersen stated in the April General Conference we all have our own spiritual whirlwinds that can cause our faith to tremble. Helaman 5:12 then states that the storms of life will come and that is why it is so imporatant for us to build upon the Rock, our Savior Jesus Christ. He is where our safety lies. "Challenges will come to us but as we trust in God they will strengthen our faith." (Elder Andersen). We can go forward with faith each day because we have a loving Father in Heaven who sent His Son Jesus Christ to this earth and bear all challenges, all afflictions, all pains, all disappointments, all sorrows. He knows us and knows our trials but as we have faith in Him we can find that peace and that through Jesus Christ we can meet our challenges, be strengthened and know that we cannot be overcome by the world because He is on our side. With faith we can always go on. Elder Russel M. Nelson then stated "There is only ONE in whom our faith is always safe, the Lord Jesus Christ." I know that as we continue to exercise our faith it will strengthen and we will have a bright hope for our future and have no need to fear. Heavenly Father is mindful of each of us and our faith. He is aware of our situations and loves each of us enough to help us strengthen our faith through different experiences that will help us grow. I know that as we acto on our faith in Jesus Christ we will be able to notice the Lord's hand in our lives and face this world with courage. Trusting in God is all that is needed. He knows us and knows what is best for us. I love this gospel. I know that as I continue to exercise faith in my Savior Jesus Christ my relationship with Him will grow stronger and I will be able to face anything with faith and trust becaue I know that He is on my side.
Thank you to all of you for the letters, emails, and packages. I feel so much love from each of you! Thank you for your support, prayers and love. I don't know what I would do without all of your strength and good examples. Each of you push me to be a better person and reach my full potential. I love being a missionary and the many experiences I am having that are teaching me to be strong and rely on the Lord. I love the Korean people and it is an honor to be serving here. I know that Heavenly Father is my Father and that He loves me. I know that Jesus Christ lives and He is my Savior. I know what I am doing is the Lord's work and each day He is making me a tool in His great and marvelous work. I love this time in my life and am cherishing all that Heavenly Father throws my way. I love each of you and miss you but I know that Heavenly Father is taking better care of you then I ever could. Have great week! Don't forget to smile! Don't forget the blessing of each day! Don't forget to go forth with Faith!
Love
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Letter - 9/8/14
Dear Family and Friends,
Well I can't believe how the time has flown! This week I hit 9 months as a missionary which means I am half way done! WHAT? Is this real life I still have so much to learn from my Father in Heaven and apply to my life to become not only the missionary He needs me to be but also the person. This week Sister Hunter and I had a full schedule but when the appointments came after diligent preparation everything fell through. I don't know why but every single lesson we planned to have was cancelled. It was so sad because we just want to teach the gospel so badly but I learned that everyone has their agency and things don't always go as planned so that is when we have to trust in God and His timing.
This week we had a special conference from Elder and Sister Aoyagi who are a part of the area presidency and from Japan. They gave all of their training in English so that we could understand. I could really feel their love as they spoke in their second language, putting their faith in God, and doing the best they could. It made me really think about my efforts in Korean and how I need to improve to really put my faith in God and let Him put the words He wants me to speak to these people in my mouth. The training was so good and I was able to see so many of the friends I have made and influenced me and my missionary work. Elder Aoyagi trained us on the Joy of Missionary Work and the pattern of missionary work in the Book Of Mormon. Some of my greatest joys in missionary work is when I can help someone take their first step of faith, been guided by the spirit or even just felt the spirit, seeing the Korean people smiling, and just loving those around me. Elder Aoyagi said that the greatest joy a missionary can experience is the guidance from the Holy Ghost. I then thought of the times that I have been guided by the Holy Ghost or when I have felt the Holy Ghost and IT'S TRUE! When I have the Holy Ghost as my constant companion and I am worthy of His consistent presence that is when I am happiest because I then know that God is guiding my work. But I know that my joy first starts and comes with obedience to the Lord's counsel because as we are obedient that is when His promise applies and we can always have the Spirit to be with us. The Book Of Mormon missionary pattern is all the same. Trials and no success at first but after developing the Christlike attributes of faith, diligence, patience, love, obedience, humility, and hope they would rely on the Lord and be made tools in His Hands bringing about much success. I know that as we strive to develop the attirbutes of Christ we are qualified for the work. Because of my desire to serve I was called but it is only through Christ like attributes and applying them that I am qualified for this outstanding work. I love this gospel I love being a missionary. It is all I could ask for and I am grateful that the desire was planted in my heart to serve so that I could be here today.
Sister Aoyagi then trained and I cannot tell you how cute she was! Her sweet angel like voice just warmed my heart. How brave she was to stand up in front of all of us and speak in english. She told us a little parable about a person trying to push this boulder because the Lord asked him to so he did. He pushed and pushed and pushed but it wouldn't move so he was frustrated and asked "Why am I pushing this boulder if I can't move it?" The Lord then replied and said, "It's not your job to move the boulder. It's mine. All I asked you to do was push." All we are asked to do is push and put our faith on the line. Everyday we can push a little harder and give just one more push to show our love to our Father in Heaven. I know that as I apply this principle in my life I will not regret anything and know I gave my all to the Lord.
As I have reflected on the last 9 months of my mission I have learned a lot of important lessons and they have changed not only my outlook on life but changed me as a person.
First and foremost I learned that attitude is everything. The commitment I made to myself to always be happy and positive has made the difference since day 1 of this missionary experience. Because of this commitment I have truly just become a happy person that can always look at the bright side of things even when everything could possibly go wrong. I can't say everyday was easy or that I haven't had challenges because I have and missionary work isn't easy but as I continually remember my commitment to myself I look for the good and put the smile back on my face. Everyday truly is a happy day when you decide for yourself that you want it to be. I know that this little lesson and application of smiling and being positive has changed my experience and changed me to be the person I am meant to be.
Second, I learned that Heavenly Father is aware of me and my personal concerns. Everyday, actually multiple times a day, I pray for strength, comfort, peace, courage, anything I need to get through a day and without fail He gives it to me either through a feeling, through another person or through some type of beautiful creation He has given us. I can't mention how many times that I have just looked up at the sky at night after a hard day and longed to see a star and there I find one. I know it is a small and simple thing but it is just a reassurance for me that Heavenly Father knows what I need to see to make me end each day with a smile on my face. Or when He allows me to have a valuable conversation with someone on the street after I had been rejected 5 plus times. He is always there and He has not let me down. This Daddy-Daughter Time I have had with Him is by far the most valuable time in my life and I know it is preparing me for eternity. I love my Heavenly Father so much and look to Him for strength daily because He is where my true strength lies.
Third, I have learned to not only love others but to love myself. At the beginning of my mission I was extremely caught up in being this perfect missionary and I soon found out that I couldn't because a perfect missionary doesn't exist. That was my trial. I was afraid of letting Heavenly Father down with the efforts that I gave so I set higher expectations for myself then what even He has for me. I was so caught up in being perfect that I was blinded and couldn't enjoy or appreciate the little moments of each day. But as I stressed, failed, and worked harder than ever before and days, weeks, even months went on I wasn't that perfect missionary and I finally figured out that all Heavenly Father expects of me is to do my best. Once I figured that out my mission became happier, less stressful, peaceful and I became content with the person I was becoming because I knew God was accepting my efforts. I know that as I work each day diligently with a smile on my face even if all the appointments fall through or if I speak Korean and no one understands me Heavenly Father is smiling down on me because He sees me struggling, working hard, growing and trusting in Him. That is what it all comes down to having faith and trusting that Heavenly Father is really there for you to fall on and He is I can promise you that. He has never let me down and He never will.
I want to thank each of you for the support you have given me the last 9 months. It has been tremendous as letters, emails, and prayers come my way. You all have played a huge role in the growing experience I am having. I love this work with all my heart and even in the hard times I would not trade it for anything. I love Korea and the Korean people. They are so special and dear to my heart. I know the Heavenly Father has a special plan for this land and that He loves His children here. I know that this gospel is the straight path to happiness. I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus Christ. They are my strength and I know that through them I can do all things. Thank you for everything! I love you all especially my family who weekly I can count on for support, encouragement and counsel! I miss you but I know this is my time to draw closer to God than ever before and bring His children back to them one step of faith at a time and that is what I am doing! Have a wonderful week! I love you! Keep smiling and always take time to thank Heavenly Father for the simple blessing of each day!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Well I can't believe how the time has flown! This week I hit 9 months as a missionary which means I am half way done! WHAT? Is this real life I still have so much to learn from my Father in Heaven and apply to my life to become not only the missionary He needs me to be but also the person. This week Sister Hunter and I had a full schedule but when the appointments came after diligent preparation everything fell through. I don't know why but every single lesson we planned to have was cancelled. It was so sad because we just want to teach the gospel so badly but I learned that everyone has their agency and things don't always go as planned so that is when we have to trust in God and His timing.
This week we had a special conference from Elder and Sister Aoyagi who are a part of the area presidency and from Japan. They gave all of their training in English so that we could understand. I could really feel their love as they spoke in their second language, putting their faith in God, and doing the best they could. It made me really think about my efforts in Korean and how I need to improve to really put my faith in God and let Him put the words He wants me to speak to these people in my mouth. The training was so good and I was able to see so many of the friends I have made and influenced me and my missionary work. Elder Aoyagi trained us on the Joy of Missionary Work and the pattern of missionary work in the Book Of Mormon. Some of my greatest joys in missionary work is when I can help someone take their first step of faith, been guided by the spirit or even just felt the spirit, seeing the Korean people smiling, and just loving those around me. Elder Aoyagi said that the greatest joy a missionary can experience is the guidance from the Holy Ghost. I then thought of the times that I have been guided by the Holy Ghost or when I have felt the Holy Ghost and IT'S TRUE! When I have the Holy Ghost as my constant companion and I am worthy of His consistent presence that is when I am happiest because I then know that God is guiding my work. But I know that my joy first starts and comes with obedience to the Lord's counsel because as we are obedient that is when His promise applies and we can always have the Spirit to be with us. The Book Of Mormon missionary pattern is all the same. Trials and no success at first but after developing the Christlike attributes of faith, diligence, patience, love, obedience, humility, and hope they would rely on the Lord and be made tools in His Hands bringing about much success. I know that as we strive to develop the attirbutes of Christ we are qualified for the work. Because of my desire to serve I was called but it is only through Christ like attributes and applying them that I am qualified for this outstanding work. I love this gospel I love being a missionary. It is all I could ask for and I am grateful that the desire was planted in my heart to serve so that I could be here today.
Sister Aoyagi then trained and I cannot tell you how cute she was! Her sweet angel like voice just warmed my heart. How brave she was to stand up in front of all of us and speak in english. She told us a little parable about a person trying to push this boulder because the Lord asked him to so he did. He pushed and pushed and pushed but it wouldn't move so he was frustrated and asked "Why am I pushing this boulder if I can't move it?" The Lord then replied and said, "It's not your job to move the boulder. It's mine. All I asked you to do was push." All we are asked to do is push and put our faith on the line. Everyday we can push a little harder and give just one more push to show our love to our Father in Heaven. I know that as I apply this principle in my life I will not regret anything and know I gave my all to the Lord.
As I have reflected on the last 9 months of my mission I have learned a lot of important lessons and they have changed not only my outlook on life but changed me as a person.
First and foremost I learned that attitude is everything. The commitment I made to myself to always be happy and positive has made the difference since day 1 of this missionary experience. Because of this commitment I have truly just become a happy person that can always look at the bright side of things even when everything could possibly go wrong. I can't say everyday was easy or that I haven't had challenges because I have and missionary work isn't easy but as I continually remember my commitment to myself I look for the good and put the smile back on my face. Everyday truly is a happy day when you decide for yourself that you want it to be. I know that this little lesson and application of smiling and being positive has changed my experience and changed me to be the person I am meant to be.
Second, I learned that Heavenly Father is aware of me and my personal concerns. Everyday, actually multiple times a day, I pray for strength, comfort, peace, courage, anything I need to get through a day and without fail He gives it to me either through a feeling, through another person or through some type of beautiful creation He has given us. I can't mention how many times that I have just looked up at the sky at night after a hard day and longed to see a star and there I find one. I know it is a small and simple thing but it is just a reassurance for me that Heavenly Father knows what I need to see to make me end each day with a smile on my face. Or when He allows me to have a valuable conversation with someone on the street after I had been rejected 5 plus times. He is always there and He has not let me down. This Daddy-Daughter Time I have had with Him is by far the most valuable time in my life and I know it is preparing me for eternity. I love my Heavenly Father so much and look to Him for strength daily because He is where my true strength lies.
Third, I have learned to not only love others but to love myself. At the beginning of my mission I was extremely caught up in being this perfect missionary and I soon found out that I couldn't because a perfect missionary doesn't exist. That was my trial. I was afraid of letting Heavenly Father down with the efforts that I gave so I set higher expectations for myself then what even He has for me. I was so caught up in being perfect that I was blinded and couldn't enjoy or appreciate the little moments of each day. But as I stressed, failed, and worked harder than ever before and days, weeks, even months went on I wasn't that perfect missionary and I finally figured out that all Heavenly Father expects of me is to do my best. Once I figured that out my mission became happier, less stressful, peaceful and I became content with the person I was becoming because I knew God was accepting my efforts. I know that as I work each day diligently with a smile on my face even if all the appointments fall through or if I speak Korean and no one understands me Heavenly Father is smiling down on me because He sees me struggling, working hard, growing and trusting in Him. That is what it all comes down to having faith and trusting that Heavenly Father is really there for you to fall on and He is I can promise you that. He has never let me down and He never will.
I want to thank each of you for the support you have given me the last 9 months. It has been tremendous as letters, emails, and prayers come my way. You all have played a huge role in the growing experience I am having. I love this work with all my heart and even in the hard times I would not trade it for anything. I love Korea and the Korean people. They are so special and dear to my heart. I know the Heavenly Father has a special plan for this land and that He loves His children here. I know that this gospel is the straight path to happiness. I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus Christ. They are my strength and I know that through them I can do all things. Thank you for everything! I love you all especially my family who weekly I can count on for support, encouragement and counsel! I miss you but I know this is my time to draw closer to God than ever before and bring His children back to them one step of faith at a time and that is what I am doing! Have a wonderful week! I love you! Keep smiling and always take time to thank Heavenly Father for the simple blessing of each day!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Letter - 9/1/14
Dear Family and Friends,
Well I can't believe how the time has flown! This week I hit 9 months as a missionary which means I am half way done! WHAT? Is this real life I still have so much to learn from my Father In Heaven and apply to my life to become not only the missionary He needs me to be but also the person. This week Sister Hunter and I had a full schedule but when the appointments came after diligent preparation everything fell through. I don't know why but every single lesson we planned to have was cancelled. It was so sad because we just want to teach the gospel so badly but I learned that everyone has their agency and things don't always go as planned so that is when we have to trust in God and His timing.
This week we had a special conference from Elder and Sister Aoyagi who are a part of the area presidency and from Japan. They gave all of their training in English so that we could understand. I could really feel their love as they spoke in their second language, putting their faith in God, and doing the best they could. It made me really think about my efforts in Korean and how I need to improve to really put my faith in God and let Him put the words He wants me to speak to these people in my mouth. The training was so good and I was able to see so many of the friends I have made and influenced me and my missionary work. Elder Aoyagi trained us on the Joy of Missionary Work and the pattern of missionary work in the Book Of Mormon. Some of my greatest joys in missionary work is when I can help someone take their first step of faith, been guided by the spirit or even just felt the spirit, seeing the Korean people smiling, and just loving those around me. Elder Aoyagi said that the greatest joy a missionary can experience is that guidance from the Holy Ghost. I then thought of the times that I have been guided by the Holy Ghost or when I have felt the Holy Ghost and IT'S TRUE! When I have the Holy Ghost as my constant companion and I am worthy of His consistent presence that is when I am happiest because I then know that God is guiding my work. But I know that my joy first starts and comes with obedience to the Lord's counsel because as we are obedient that is when His promise applies and we can always have the Spirit to be with us. The Book Of Mormon missionary pattern is all the same. Trials and no success at first but after developing the Christlike attributes of faith, diligence, patience, love, obedience, humility, and hope they would rely on the Lord and be made tools in His Hands bringing about much success. I know that as we strive to develop the attirbutes of Christ we are qualified for the work. Because of my desire to serve I was called but it is only through Christ like attributes and applying them that I am qualified for this outstanding work. I love this gospel I love being a missionary. It is all I could ask for and I am grateful that the desire was planted in my heart to serve so that I could be here today.
Sister Aoyagi then trained and I cannot tell you how cute she was! Her sweet angel like voice just warmed my heart. How brave she was to stand up in front of all of us a speak in english. She told us a little parable about a person trying to push this bolder because the Lord asked him to so he did. He pushed and pushed and pushed but it wouldn't move so he was frustrated and asked "Why am I pushing this boulder if I can't move it?" The Lord then replied and said, "It's not your job to move the boulder. It's mine. All I asked you to do was push." All we are asked to do is push and put out faith on the line. Everyday we can push a little harder and give just one more push to show our love to our Father in Heaven. I know that as I apply this princple in my life I will not regret anything and know I gave my all to the Lord.
As I have reflected on the last 9 months of my mission I have learned a lot of important lessons and they have changed not only my outlook on life but changed me as a person.
First and foremost I learned that attitude is everything. The commmitment I made to myself to always be happy and positive has made the difference since day 1 of this missionary experience. Because of this commitment I have truly just become a happy person that can always look at the bright side of things even when everything could possible be going wrong. I can't say everyday was easy or that I haven't had challenges because I have and missionary work isn't easy but as I continually remember my commitment to myself I look for the good and put the smile back on my face. Everyday truly is a happy day when you decide for yourself that you want it to be. I know that this little lesson and application of smiling and being positive has change my experience and changed me to be the person I am meant to be.
Second, I learned that Heavenly Father is aware of me and my personal concerns. Everyday actually multiple times a day I pray for strength, comfort, peace, courage, anything I need to get through a day and without fail He gives it to me either through a feeling, through another person or through some type of beautiful creation He has given us. I can't mention how many times that I have just looked up at the sky at night after a hard day and longed to see a star and there I find one. I know it is a small and simple thing but it is just a reassurance for me that Heavenly Father knows what I need to see to make me end each day witha smile on my face. Or when He allows me to have a valuable conversation with some one on the street after I had been rejected 5 plus times. He is always there and He had not let me down. This Daddy-Daughter Time I have had with Him is by far the most valuable time in my life and I know it is preparing me for eternity. I love my Heavenly Father so much and look to HIm for strength daily because He is where my true strength lies.
Third, I have learned to not only love others but to love myself. At the beginning of my mission I was extremely caught up on being this perfect missionary and I soon found out that I couldn't because a perfect missionary doesn't exist. That was my trial. I was afraid of letting Heavenly Father down with the efforts that I gave so I set higher expections for myself then what even He has for me. I was so caught up in being perfect that I was blinded and couldn't enjoy or apprectiate the little moments of each day. But as I stresssed, failed, and worked harder then ever before and days, weeks, even months went on I wasn't that perfect missionary and I finally figured out that all Heavenly Father expects of me is to do my best. Once I figured that out my mission became happier, less stressful, peaceful and I became content with the person I was becoming because I knew God was accepting my efforts. I know that as I work each day diligently with a smile on my face even if all the appointments fall through or if I speak Korean and no one understands me Heavenly Father is smiling down on me because He sees me struggling, working hard, growing and trusting in Him. That is what it all comes down to having faith and trusting that Heavenly Father is really there for you to fall on and He is I can promise you that. He has never let me doown and He never will.
I want to thank each of you for the support you have given me the last 9 months. It has been tremendous as letters, emails, and prayers come my way. You all have played a huge role in the growing experience I am having. I love this work with all my heart and even in the hard times I would not trade it for anything. I love Korea and the Korean people. They are so special and dear to my heart. I know the Heavenly Father has a special plan for this land and that He loves His children here. I know that this gospel is the straight path to happiness. I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus Christ. They are my strength and I know that through them I can do all things. Thank you for everything! I love you all especailly my family who weekly I can count on for support, encouragement and counsel! I miss you but I know this is my time to draw closer to God then ever before and bring His children back to them one step of faith at a time and that is what I am doing! Have a wonderful week! I love you! Keep smiling and always take time to thank Heavenly Father for the simple blessing of each day!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Well I can't believe how the time has flown! This week I hit 9 months as a missionary which means I am half way done! WHAT? Is this real life I still have so much to learn from my Father In Heaven and apply to my life to become not only the missionary He needs me to be but also the person. This week Sister Hunter and I had a full schedule but when the appointments came after diligent preparation everything fell through. I don't know why but every single lesson we planned to have was cancelled. It was so sad because we just want to teach the gospel so badly but I learned that everyone has their agency and things don't always go as planned so that is when we have to trust in God and His timing.
This week we had a special conference from Elder and Sister Aoyagi who are a part of the area presidency and from Japan. They gave all of their training in English so that we could understand. I could really feel their love as they spoke in their second language, putting their faith in God, and doing the best they could. It made me really think about my efforts in Korean and how I need to improve to really put my faith in God and let Him put the words He wants me to speak to these people in my mouth. The training was so good and I was able to see so many of the friends I have made and influenced me and my missionary work. Elder Aoyagi trained us on the Joy of Missionary Work and the pattern of missionary work in the Book Of Mormon. Some of my greatest joys in missionary work is when I can help someone take their first step of faith, been guided by the spirit or even just felt the spirit, seeing the Korean people smiling, and just loving those around me. Elder Aoyagi said that the greatest joy a missionary can experience is that guidance from the Holy Ghost. I then thought of the times that I have been guided by the Holy Ghost or when I have felt the Holy Ghost and IT'S TRUE! When I have the Holy Ghost as my constant companion and I am worthy of His consistent presence that is when I am happiest because I then know that God is guiding my work. But I know that my joy first starts and comes with obedience to the Lord's counsel because as we are obedient that is when His promise applies and we can always have the Spirit to be with us. The Book Of Mormon missionary pattern is all the same. Trials and no success at first but after developing the Christlike attributes of faith, diligence, patience, love, obedience, humility, and hope they would rely on the Lord and be made tools in His Hands bringing about much success. I know that as we strive to develop the attirbutes of Christ we are qualified for the work. Because of my desire to serve I was called but it is only through Christ like attributes and applying them that I am qualified for this outstanding work. I love this gospel I love being a missionary. It is all I could ask for and I am grateful that the desire was planted in my heart to serve so that I could be here today.
Sister Aoyagi then trained and I cannot tell you how cute she was! Her sweet angel like voice just warmed my heart. How brave she was to stand up in front of all of us a speak in english. She told us a little parable about a person trying to push this bolder because the Lord asked him to so he did. He pushed and pushed and pushed but it wouldn't move so he was frustrated and asked "Why am I pushing this boulder if I can't move it?" The Lord then replied and said, "It's not your job to move the boulder. It's mine. All I asked you to do was push." All we are asked to do is push and put out faith on the line. Everyday we can push a little harder and give just one more push to show our love to our Father in Heaven. I know that as I apply this princple in my life I will not regret anything and know I gave my all to the Lord.
As I have reflected on the last 9 months of my mission I have learned a lot of important lessons and they have changed not only my outlook on life but changed me as a person.
First and foremost I learned that attitude is everything. The commmitment I made to myself to always be happy and positive has made the difference since day 1 of this missionary experience. Because of this commitment I have truly just become a happy person that can always look at the bright side of things even when everything could possible be going wrong. I can't say everyday was easy or that I haven't had challenges because I have and missionary work isn't easy but as I continually remember my commitment to myself I look for the good and put the smile back on my face. Everyday truly is a happy day when you decide for yourself that you want it to be. I know that this little lesson and application of smiling and being positive has change my experience and changed me to be the person I am meant to be.
Second, I learned that Heavenly Father is aware of me and my personal concerns. Everyday actually multiple times a day I pray for strength, comfort, peace, courage, anything I need to get through a day and without fail He gives it to me either through a feeling, through another person or through some type of beautiful creation He has given us. I can't mention how many times that I have just looked up at the sky at night after a hard day and longed to see a star and there I find one. I know it is a small and simple thing but it is just a reassurance for me that Heavenly Father knows what I need to see to make me end each day witha smile on my face. Or when He allows me to have a valuable conversation with some one on the street after I had been rejected 5 plus times. He is always there and He had not let me down. This Daddy-Daughter Time I have had with Him is by far the most valuable time in my life and I know it is preparing me for eternity. I love my Heavenly Father so much and look to HIm for strength daily because He is where my true strength lies.
Third, I have learned to not only love others but to love myself. At the beginning of my mission I was extremely caught up on being this perfect missionary and I soon found out that I couldn't because a perfect missionary doesn't exist. That was my trial. I was afraid of letting Heavenly Father down with the efforts that I gave so I set higher expections for myself then what even He has for me. I was so caught up in being perfect that I was blinded and couldn't enjoy or apprectiate the little moments of each day. But as I stresssed, failed, and worked harder then ever before and days, weeks, even months went on I wasn't that perfect missionary and I finally figured out that all Heavenly Father expects of me is to do my best. Once I figured that out my mission became happier, less stressful, peaceful and I became content with the person I was becoming because I knew God was accepting my efforts. I know that as I work each day diligently with a smile on my face even if all the appointments fall through or if I speak Korean and no one understands me Heavenly Father is smiling down on me because He sees me struggling, working hard, growing and trusting in Him. That is what it all comes down to having faith and trusting that Heavenly Father is really there for you to fall on and He is I can promise you that. He has never let me doown and He never will.
I want to thank each of you for the support you have given me the last 9 months. It has been tremendous as letters, emails, and prayers come my way. You all have played a huge role in the growing experience I am having. I love this work with all my heart and even in the hard times I would not trade it for anything. I love Korea and the Korean people. They are so special and dear to my heart. I know the Heavenly Father has a special plan for this land and that He loves His children here. I know that this gospel is the straight path to happiness. I love my Heavenly Father and my Savior Jesus Christ. They are my strength and I know that through them I can do all things. Thank you for everything! I love you all especailly my family who weekly I can count on for support, encouragement and counsel! I miss you but I know this is my time to draw closer to God then ever before and bring His children back to them one step of faith at a time and that is what I am doing! Have a wonderful week! I love you! Keep smiling and always take time to thank Heavenly Father for the simple blessing of each day!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Letter - 8/25/14
Dear Family and Friends,
Where to start, Where to start? Well this week was just another wonderful week in 금천. This transfer actually was cut a week short so we received our transfer calls Sunday morning and guess what!! Yes Sister Hunter and I are still companions AND our roommates are staying the same. When we got the call it was just too good to be true! This will be Sister Hunter and Sister Lyman's 5th transfer in this area! We thought for sure that one would be leaving but nope!! I am so excited and can't wait to spend the next 7 weeks with them continuing our memories together. Heavenly Father truly is guiding this work and I am so grateful that He has put these Sisters in my life. I needed them and they just continue to show me their good examples which pushes me to improve. I love being a missionary so much and representing our Savior Jesus Christ. I just cannot express how grateful I am to be serving the Lord in the country of Korea. The people are so generous and loving. Last Monday we had a dinner appointment with the cutest family in our ward. It was so fun as Sister Hunter and I made Missionary name badges with them as part of our message and activity. When we finished eating and making our name tags the mom, 서미선, said to me, "Today is your birthday right?! Because I prepared." She went into the other room bringing out a cake and candles. I couldn't believe it. I have been in this ward for only a couple of weeks, this family hardly knows me but they are still so kind and generous enough to do such a thoughtful deed. Her and her 4 kids turn out the lights, lighted the candles, and sang Happy Birthday to me. It was truly the cherry on top of a perfect day. I love this ward. I am truly so lucky to be serving here with Sister Hunter and learning from the amazing Korean people. I love them and am so grateful for their examples.
Also on Monday a really cute thing happened when we were at the Fortress. As we were getting ready to leave I saw a little store that had beautiful Korean fans and I have been wanting to buy one so I asked the Sisters if we could stop. We stopped and I was looking at the fans. I found one I liked and asked how much it was. Then one of the Sisters who was with us was Korean so she tried to bargain with the lady who was selling the fan she said "Since it’s her birthday can you lower the price?" Then a little maybe 3 year old girl came out and said "It's my birthday too." So the lady instead gave me a free case for the fan and the little girl and I got a picture together. It was so fun and she wished me a happy birthday in her cute little voice. It is such a great memory and I will never forget that I share a birthday with that little girl. It's amazing the people you meet just as we open our mouths for simple things and the memories you make through doing so.
Tuesday was the last time we met with our investigator 김미량. It was so sad. It went really well but I did not want to say good bye but I know that she is in the Lord's hands and let His will be done. Sister Hunter and I wrote a simple testimony in Korean inside of the Book of Mormon for her and gave it to her. She wants to read it as we applied the story of Lehi leaving Jerusalem to her situation going to Hong Kong, because like her it was scary for Lehi and his family to leave and not know where they would live but they did the Lord's will so we encouraged her to pray about her decision and seek God's counsel. We promised her that as she continues praying and if she reads this book she will find peace comfort and direction from her loving Heavenly Father. When we gave her the number for the mission office in Hong Kong she almost started crying. She was filled with so much comfort to know that she could contact the missionaries there and not be alone. I love her so much and hate to see her go but I know God has a plan for her and is preparing her more and more everyday. I am so grateful that I was able to take part in her preparation and feel of her love and spirit. I have had simple choice experiences throughout my mission that continue to manifest to me that this is the Lord's great and marvelous work. He is in charge and I am honored to witness Him fulfill His purpose.
Wednesday we had ZONE CONFERENCE! It was so great! I just love seeing President and Sister Morrise. I am so grateful to be serving under them and receive so much training and help from them. While spiritually preparing for the conference I read D&C Section 3. This section I learned so much. Heavenly Father is kind of chastening Joseph Smith which is never fun but He then reassures us that He is merciful and always gives us another chance to be faithful and obedient to Him. I am so grateful for this knowledge because everyday I fall short and make mistakes but I know that as I keep trying to improve myself and humble myself before my Father in Heaven He will show me more love then I can even comprehend. In fact verse 8 if we switch it to a positive outlook the blessings from God are clearly stated (verse switched to positive) "Yet IF YE ARE faithful; he WILL extend his arm and support you against all the fiery darts of the adversary; and he WILL BE with you in every time of trouble." This is our promise from our Heavenly Father as we stay faithful to His commandments and strive to live according to His will. We are protected as we seek to do His will. There is no greater promise then knowing that our Heavenly Father will be with us in every time of trouble. So go forth with faith and know that Heavenly Father has confidence in us so we can have confidence in ourselves.
I want you all to know how much I love this gospel. I know that is it true. I have witnessed so many miracles while serving my Heavenly Father and Savior that I will never be able to deny. I represent my Savior everyday as a missionary and even when I return home I will still represent Him. I may not have a black nametag with His name on it but His name will forever be engraven on my heart. I know that God loves you and has a plan for you. I know that we are never alone. I read the last chapter of Luke yesterday in my personal study about the road to Emmaus and want to share a poem with you "Too often we are like those two who walked along the road. We think that we are all alone with none to share the load. We do not see our loving friend beside us on our way carrying us through the darkest nights into a brighter day. So as we walk our own roads to Emmaus may we see that we will never be alone unless we choose to be." -Liz (can't remember her last name). As I remain with my eyes open always remembering that Christ is with me I can face this world and always remember that I am never alone. I will look at my life and realize He has always been there beside me. Christ is with us every step of the way as long as we accept HIs presence in our life. The choice is ours. It always is but know that Christ will always choose to be with you to face this life. We don't have to face it alone. Choose to recognize Christ by your side and go forth hand in hand with Him.
Thank you for all the prayers, love and support! I love each of you! Continue this week with smiles on your faces! Remember you are loved and are never alone! Have a fabulous week!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Where to start, Where to start? Well this week was just another wonderful week in 금천. This transfer actually was cut a week short so we received our transfer calls Sunday morning and guess what!! Yes Sister Hunter and I are still companions AND our roommates are staying the same. When we got the call it was just too good to be true! This will be Sister Hunter and Sister Lyman's 5th transfer in this area! We thought for sure that one would be leaving but nope!! I am so excited and can't wait to spend the next 7 weeks with them continuing our memories together. Heavenly Father truly is guiding this work and I am so grateful that He has put these Sisters in my life. I needed them and they just continue to show me their good examples which pushes me to improve. I love being a missionary so much and representing our Savior Jesus Christ. I just cannot express how grateful I am to be serving the Lord in the country of Korea. The people are so generous and loving. Last Monday we had a dinner appointment with the cutest family in our ward. It was so fun as Sister Hunter and I made Missionary name badges with them as part of our message and activity. When we finished eating and making our name tags the mom, 서미선, said to me, "Today is your birthday right?! Because I prepared." She went into the other room bringing out a cake and candles. I couldn't believe it. I have been in this ward for only a couple of weeks, this family hardly knows me but they are still so kind and generous enough to do such a thoughtful deed. Her and her 4 kids turn out the lights, lighted the candles, and sang Happy Birthday to me. It was truly the cherry on top of a perfect day. I love this ward. I am truly so lucky to be serving here with Sister Hunter and learning from the amazing Korean people. I love them and am so grateful for their examples.
Also on Monday a really cute thing happened when we were at the Fortress. As we were getting ready to leave I saw a little store that had beautiful Korean fans and I have been wanting to buy one so I asked the Sisters if we could stop. We stopped and I was looking at the fans. I found one I liked and asked how much it was. Then one of the Sisters who was with us was Korean so she tried to bargain with the lady who was selling the fan she said "Since it’s her birthday can you lower the price?" Then a little maybe 3 year old girl came out and said "It's my birthday too." So the lady instead gave me a free case for the fan and the little girl and I got a picture together. It was so fun and she wished me a happy birthday in her cute little voice. It is such a great memory and I will never forget that I share a birthday with that little girl. It's amazing the people you meet just as we open our mouths for simple things and the memories you make through doing so.
Tuesday was the last time we met with our investigator 김미량. It was so sad. It went really well but I did not want to say good bye but I know that she is in the Lord's hands and let His will be done. Sister Hunter and I wrote a simple testimony in Korean inside of the Book of Mormon for her and gave it to her. She wants to read it as we applied the story of Lehi leaving Jerusalem to her situation going to Hong Kong, because like her it was scary for Lehi and his family to leave and not know where they would live but they did the Lord's will so we encouraged her to pray about her decision and seek God's counsel. We promised her that as she continues praying and if she reads this book she will find peace comfort and direction from her loving Heavenly Father. When we gave her the number for the mission office in Hong Kong she almost started crying. She was filled with so much comfort to know that she could contact the missionaries there and not be alone. I love her so much and hate to see her go but I know God has a plan for her and is preparing her more and more everyday. I am so grateful that I was able to take part in her preparation and feel of her love and spirit. I have had simple choice experiences throughout my mission that continue to manifest to me that this is the Lord's great and marvelous work. He is in charge and I am honored to witness Him fulfill His purpose.
Wednesday we had ZONE CONFERENCE! It was so great! I just love seeing President and Sister Morrise. I am so grateful to be serving under them and receive so much training and help from them. While spiritually preparing for the conference I read D&C Section 3. This section I learned so much. Heavenly Father is kind of chastening Joseph Smith which is never fun but He then reassures us that He is merciful and always gives us another chance to be faithful and obedient to Him. I am so grateful for this knowledge because everyday I fall short and make mistakes but I know that as I keep trying to improve myself and humble myself before my Father in Heaven He will show me more love then I can even comprehend. In fact verse 8 if we switch it to a positive outlook the blessings from God are clearly stated (verse switched to positive) "Yet IF YE ARE faithful; he WILL extend his arm and support you against all the fiery darts of the adversary; and he WILL BE with you in every time of trouble." This is our promise from our Heavenly Father as we stay faithful to His commandments and strive to live according to His will. We are protected as we seek to do His will. There is no greater promise then knowing that our Heavenly Father will be with us in every time of trouble. So go forth with faith and know that Heavenly Father has confidence in us so we can have confidence in ourselves.
I want you all to know how much I love this gospel. I know that is it true. I have witnessed so many miracles while serving my Heavenly Father and Savior that I will never be able to deny. I represent my Savior everyday as a missionary and even when I return home I will still represent Him. I may not have a black nametag with His name on it but His name will forever be engraven on my heart. I know that God loves you and has a plan for you. I know that we are never alone. I read the last chapter of Luke yesterday in my personal study about the road to Emmaus and want to share a poem with you "Too often we are like those two who walked along the road. We think that we are all alone with none to share the load. We do not see our loving friend beside us on our way carrying us through the darkest nights into a brighter day. So as we walk our own roads to Emmaus may we see that we will never be alone unless we choose to be." -Liz (can't remember her last name). As I remain with my eyes open always remembering that Christ is with me I can face this world and always remember that I am never alone. I will look at my life and realize He has always been there beside me. Christ is with us every step of the way as long as we accept HIs presence in our life. The choice is ours. It always is but know that Christ will always choose to be with you to face this life. We don't have to face it alone. Choose to recognize Christ by your side and go forth hand in hand with Him.
Thank you for all the prayers, love and support! I love each of you! Continue this week with smiles on your faces! Remember you are loved and are never alone! Have a fabulous week!
Love,
드리스콜자매
Sister Ciarra Jean Driscoll
Monday, August 18, 2014
Letter - 8/18/14
Dear Family and Friends,
Well I don't know how I seemed to get so lucky that my Birthday fell on a P-Day but it did and it's been a great day so far thanks to my awesome companion and roommates. Let me tell you what has happened. So the alarm went of at 6:30 I rolled over and stuffed my face in my pillow preparing to say my morning prayers. I then hear the Korean birthday song and Sister Hammerl is tackling me on my bed. Yes so then for some reason Sister Hunter was really determined to go outside this morning and exercise so I don't complain because I will take any opportunity to go outside and run. When we come back in I find the master chef Sister Lyman cooking my favorite breakfast, crepes. I just couldn't believe it. I was so happy and just reminded me of being home and eating my mom's crepes. Then during study time surprisingly texts from members and missionaries just flooded the phone. I didn't know how the members found out it was my Birthday until I thought about Sunday when Sister Hunter talked to the amazing Single Adult in our ward 황미주 and mentioned it was my birthday. Well sure enough I think still no sure she informed the whole ward on the Ward Facebook Page type thing. So its been wonderful and I am just so grateful for the time that I have had so far. For the rest of the day we are planning on going to a typer of Fortress with some other missionaries which should be fun! I can't believe I am 20 though..Kind of really strange for my last teenage night last night Sister Hunter and I had a chocolate mild chug competition since that is as crazy as you can get as a missionary on a Sunday. Yes it was fun! I am always making memories in this little area of mine with these wonderful Sisters. I am so grateful for them. I also want to thank you all for with Birthday wishes my Mom said that many came my way so thank you so much. I love you all!
As for the week. IT was just wonderful. I don't even know where to start. Last Monday all us Sisters went bowling at the local bowling alley which was so fun. Reminded me of memories going bowling with friends and family. I am definitely a poor bowler though compared to the Koreans. They are amazing! I need lessons from them. It was a party though even though we were all stuggling. We had a good time and that is was counts. After P-day ended Sister Hunter and I decided to go a try visiting past investigators from the area. We went focused on a particular apartment complex which is huge and I am sure all of American Falls, Aberdeen, and Rockland could live there, No one seemed to be home or they pretended not to be when they found out it was the missionaries waiting out their door. As it was getting late we decided to visit one last person. We punched in her apartment number and through the intercom type thing she talked but we couldn't hear each other so she hung up but then the door opened. We didn't know if she opened it or not but this was our chance to go in so we went for it. Come to find out she did open it and she warmly invited us into her house. Sister Hunter and I were so caught off guard. We weren't expecting this to happen but it did so it was time to fulfill our purpose. We met the women and found out that she has two kids and a husband. She talked about when she met with the missionaries in the past and said that the message was just different and her Father did not approve so she stopped. The whole time we were talking she was just so comfortable having us in her house and was really sincere. She listened to us as we taught about God being our Loving Heavenly Father and prayer. The Spirit was really special and she just seemed ready to listen to us. We weren't able to stay long because it was late but we closed with a prayer and as we were leaving I asked if it would be okay if we visited again. She said of course come again. It was a neat experience to watch her as we spoke to her. She was in the moment and so kind. I am grateful that Sister Hunter and I were able to meet her and I hope that we will continue to do so as we have kept in contact this last week and plan on visiting her again this week.
Tuesday we had a lunch appointment with a member of our ward. It was so fun. She told us of her conversion story and how she decided to serve a mission. As she told her story I just kept thinking Wow. The way God tries and prepares people is truly amazing. Her story of going on a mission I really enjoyed. She said she went on a mission because she is an obedient person. Well come to find out she said her Patriarchal Blessing mentioned a lot of things about missionary work so she knew she needed to go. So she went to her father to tell him she wanted to go on a mission. Her father is not a member and the minute she said that he said get out of my house. It scared her and at this point she was questioning it. She hadn't prayed about going yet though to she prayed asking Heavenly Father what she was to do. She got her answer and she was to serve a mission but how? For 4 years she worked to earn money, prepared through studying and going to the temple. By the time she had enough money she went to her father and said I will go on a mission. And she went. I just thought about her story and realized what a blessing it is to have a family that has supported me from day 1 and parents who have encouraged me each week. The Korean members here continue to amaze me as they are so strong in the faith and truly serve the Lord with all their might mind and strength. I love the Korean people because they are just full of love, kindness and want to serve and be obedient. I am learning so much from them and it is an honor to serve them.
Wednesday lots of great things happened as all 4 of us sisters started out the day running at the field behin our apartment. Well during the middle of exercise Sister Hunter thought it would be a good idea to start a game of tag and tagged Sister Lyman. So yes we played tag and Sister Lyman came after me next and pretty sure I haven't ran that fast in my life for a really really really long time. I thought I was going to die but luckily I got away. Then Sister Hunter became it again and I was just running my laps and she came and got me because as I was running away I went down the stairs and almost died so I had to slow down. I was it for probably 8 minutes and 8 minutes in tag time is eternity! I went after Sister Hammerl but gave up because I was dying but then saw Sister Lyman hiding being the cement pole working out so I got her instead and that was our game of tag. It was a great work out let me tell you!
Sister Hunter and I then met with our investigator, 김미량 that same day. I witnessed her take a huge step of faith that day that I will forever remember. The time we had with her was amazing although she told us that in 2 weeks she would be moving to Hong Kong...Yeah it was sad and I wanted to cry but she asked if she could still meet with the missionaries there and of course we said yes. Just knowing she still wants to learn about the gospel gave me so much joy. During our appointment we talked a lot about the purpose of life and what we hope for because she told us that her friend from the Philippines brother was killed and so she was really sad. We together just wondered why good things happend to good people. We turned to the scriptures and shared 1 Nephi 11:17. We don't understand all things but the most important thing we can know is that we have a Loving Father in Heaven who loves us and is watching over us. She was one who didn't have much of a belief in God but as we taught her she began wondering and wanted to know. The end of the lesson we invited her to pray. At first she said "I can't. I am too shy." But as Sister Hunter and I encouraged her and reassured her that she can she built up her confidence and took one of the biggest steps of faith she had ever taken. She tookd a step of faith praying to Heavenly Father who she still doesn't know if He is there but she say she hopes He is. Her prayer touched my heart and the Spirit was definitely present. It was the most sincere prayer I had ever heard as she prayed for her friend, her grandma and her journey to Hong Kong. She prayed for all the things she was currently concerned about and after she prayed she thanked us. I could tell she was at peace and calm in her heart. It was and amazing experience I am just so grateful that Heavenly Father allowed me to witness that special experience. We will meet with her for the last time this week but I am so grateful for her and I love her so much.
I just want to thank each of you for the influence you have made on my life. Each of you have palyed a special role in the person I have become and the person I am becoming. I recently read Mosiah 6 which is a short chapeter but it when King Benjamin dies and Mosiah reigns over he kingdom. He walks in the ways of the Lord and in verse 7 it says he does so because that is what his father did. God gives each of us examples in our lives to learn from and I am so grateful for all the amazing examples that have came into my life and helped me become a better person. I love each and every one of you. I hope you have a wonderful week! Keep smiling and this week thank Heavenly Father for the good examples He has set in your life. I love being a missionary. This work is all I could ever ask for. I love my Savior and my Heavenly Father. I know that they love me and they love you. Thank you for your love support and prayers. LOVE YOU ALL!!
Love ,
드리스콜자매
Sister Driscoll
Well I don't know how I seemed to get so lucky that my Birthday fell on a P-Day but it did and it's been a great day so far thanks to my awesome companion and roommates. Let me tell you what has happened. So the alarm went of at 6:30 I rolled over and stuffed my face in my pillow preparing to say my morning prayers. I then hear the Korean birthday song and Sister Hammerl is tackling me on my bed. Yes so then for some reason Sister Hunter was really determined to go outside this morning and exercise so I don't complain because I will take any opportunity to go outside and run. When we come back in I find the master chef Sister Lyman cooking my favorite breakfast, crepes. I just couldn't believe it. I was so happy and just reminded me of being home and eating my mom's crepes. Then during study time surprisingly texts from members and missionaries just flooded the phone. I didn't know how the members found out it was my Birthday until I thought about Sunday when Sister Hunter talked to the amazing Single Adult in our ward 황미주 and mentioned it was my birthday. Well sure enough I think still no sure she informed the whole ward on the Ward Facebook Page type thing. So its been wonderful and I am just so grateful for the time that I have had so far. For the rest of the day we are planning on going to a typer of Fortress with some other missionaries which should be fun! I can't believe I am 20 though..Kind of really strange for my last teenage night last night Sister Hunter and I had a chocolate mild chug competition since that is as crazy as you can get as a missionary on a Sunday. Yes it was fun! I am always making memories in this little area of mine with these wonderful Sisters. I am so grateful for them. I also want to thank you all for with Birthday wishes my Mom said that many came my way so thank you so much. I love you all!
As for the week. IT was just wonderful. I don't even know where to start. Last Monday all us Sisters went bowling at the local bowling alley which was so fun. Reminded me of memories going bowling with friends and family. I am definitely a poor bowler though compared to the Koreans. They are amazing! I need lessons from them. It was a party though even though we were all stuggling. We had a good time and that is was counts. After P-day ended Sister Hunter and I decided to go a try visiting past investigators from the area. We went focused on a particular apartment complex which is huge and I am sure all of American Falls, Aberdeen, and Rockland could live there, No one seemed to be home or they pretended not to be when they found out it was the missionaries waiting out their door. As it was getting late we decided to visit one last person. We punched in her apartment number and through the intercom type thing she talked but we couldn't hear each other so she hung up but then the door opened. We didn't know if she opened it or not but this was our chance to go in so we went for it. Come to find out she did open it and she warmly invited us into her house. Sister Hunter and I were so caught off guard. We weren't expecting this to happen but it did so it was time to fulfill our purpose. We met the women and found out that she has two kids and a husband. She talked about when she met with the missionaries in the past and said that the message was just different and her Father did not approve so she stopped. The whole time we were talking she was just so comfortable having us in her house and was really sincere. She listened to us as we taught about God being our Loving Heavenly Father and prayer. The Spirit was really special and she just seemed ready to listen to us. We weren't able to stay long because it was late but we closed with a prayer and as we were leaving I asked if it would be okay if we visited again. She said of course come again. It was a neat experience to watch her as we spoke to her. She was in the moment and so kind. I am grateful that Sister Hunter and I were able to meet her and I hope that we will continue to do so as we have kept in contact this last week and plan on visiting her again this week.
Tuesday we had a lunch appointment with a member of our ward. It was so fun. She told us of her conversion story and how she decided to serve a mission. As she told her story I just kept thinking Wow. The way God tries and prepares people is truly amazing. Her story of going on a mission I really enjoyed. She said she went on a mission because she is an obedient person. Well come to find out she said her Patriarchal Blessing mentioned a lot of things about missionary work so she knew she needed to go. So she went to her father to tell him she wanted to go on a mission. Her father is not a member and the minute she said that he said get out of my house. It scared her and at this point she was questioning it. She hadn't prayed about going yet though to she prayed asking Heavenly Father what she was to do. She got her answer and she was to serve a mission but how? For 4 years she worked to earn money, prepared through studying and going to the temple. By the time she had enough money she went to her father and said I will go on a mission. And she went. I just thought about her story and realized what a blessing it is to have a family that has supported me from day 1 and parents who have encouraged me each week. The Korean members here continue to amaze me as they are so strong in the faith and truly serve the Lord with all their might mind and strength. I love the Korean people because they are just full of love, kindness and want to serve and be obedient. I am learning so much from them and it is an honor to serve them.
Wednesday lots of great things happened as all 4 of us sisters started out the day running at the field behin our apartment. Well during the middle of exercise Sister Hunter thought it would be a good idea to start a game of tag and tagged Sister Lyman. So yes we played tag and Sister Lyman came after me next and pretty sure I haven't ran that fast in my life for a really really really long time. I thought I was going to die but luckily I got away. Then Sister Hunter became it again and I was just running my laps and she came and got me because as I was running away I went down the stairs and almost died so I had to slow down. I was it for probably 8 minutes and 8 minutes in tag time is eternity! I went after Sister Hammerl but gave up because I was dying but then saw Sister Lyman hiding being the cement pole working out so I got her instead and that was our game of tag. It was a great work out let me tell you!
Sister Hunter and I then met with our investigator, 김미량 that same day. I witnessed her take a huge step of faith that day that I will forever remember. The time we had with her was amazing although she told us that in 2 weeks she would be moving to Hong Kong...Yeah it was sad and I wanted to cry but she asked if she could still meet with the missionaries there and of course we said yes. Just knowing she still wants to learn about the gospel gave me so much joy. During our appointment we talked a lot about the purpose of life and what we hope for because she told us that her friend from the Philippines brother was killed and so she was really sad. We together just wondered why good things happend to good people. We turned to the scriptures and shared 1 Nephi 11:17. We don't understand all things but the most important thing we can know is that we have a Loving Father in Heaven who loves us and is watching over us. She was one who didn't have much of a belief in God but as we taught her she began wondering and wanted to know. The end of the lesson we invited her to pray. At first she said "I can't. I am too shy." But as Sister Hunter and I encouraged her and reassured her that she can she built up her confidence and took one of the biggest steps of faith she had ever taken. She tookd a step of faith praying to Heavenly Father who she still doesn't know if He is there but she say she hopes He is. Her prayer touched my heart and the Spirit was definitely present. It was the most sincere prayer I had ever heard as she prayed for her friend, her grandma and her journey to Hong Kong. She prayed for all the things she was currently concerned about and after she prayed she thanked us. I could tell she was at peace and calm in her heart. It was and amazing experience I am just so grateful that Heavenly Father allowed me to witness that special experience. We will meet with her for the last time this week but I am so grateful for her and I love her so much.
I just want to thank each of you for the influence you have made on my life. Each of you have palyed a special role in the person I have become and the person I am becoming. I recently read Mosiah 6 which is a short chapeter but it when King Benjamin dies and Mosiah reigns over he kingdom. He walks in the ways of the Lord and in verse 7 it says he does so because that is what his father did. God gives each of us examples in our lives to learn from and I am so grateful for all the amazing examples that have came into my life and helped me become a better person. I love each and every one of you. I hope you have a wonderful week! Keep smiling and this week thank Heavenly Father for the good examples He has set in your life. I love being a missionary. This work is all I could ever ask for. I love my Savior and my Heavenly Father. I know that they love me and they love you. Thank you for your love support and prayers. LOVE YOU ALL!!
Love ,
드리스콜자매
Sister Driscoll
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