Success and Trials? Written January 7, 2013

Dear Family,

         I have come to find that whenever things are starting to turn out "good," that trials strike. I think I am learning a life lesson right now that has been a long time coming. We had an awesome lesson with The Kasey's this past week in which we taught about the Restoration of the Gospel. The discussion was great, there was such a warm feeling in their home and joy just exudes from them. I can't wait for you to meet them! When asked why Greg wants this for his family, his reply is always something along the lines of, "I want us to be a stronger unit." The two of them are SO sweet to each other and Greg frequently mentions how Liz is one of the biggest blessings God has given him. So to hear him say that he wants to be a "stronger unit" just teaches me that, even when we think we are doing well, the gospel can strengthen and deepen our love for those around us. It truly does improve the quality of our lives.

Sister Siemens and Sister Mitchell

         The work is moving here now the way it was in Dry Creek and I forgot how overwhelming it is when that happens. We have Angelina's baptism this Saturday. Heather's is next Saturday. Then the Saturday after that is the Kaseys. Then we have a bunch more incredible people that are progressing and just doing great. There is not enough time in a day! When there is no one to teach I feel helplessly reliant on the Lord. I plead with Him that we can be able to touch to lives of many within our area. And then when I get what I asked for.... Does it get any easier!?!?! NO! Haha. In fact... I wake up at all hours of the night with a thought or idea. When I run, shower, drive or eat, my thoughts are constantly darting from one person to another. Like the scriptures say, I feel like my "anxiety is great!" But you know what I came to the realization of this week..... I LOVE IT! I love that feeling of helplessness. When he has entrusted us with so many people I begin to see how I cannot do it without Him. It’s then that I KNOW that He is in charge of this work. I can feel Him strengthening me and helping me to do things far beyond my capacity.

A third Companion????

         So when I say there have been trials. I don't mean the kind that makes me want to give up. I mean the kind that re-assures me that I am on the right path. Salvation is not easy. When we are doing what is right, we will face opposition. Like the parable of the sower. Our seed may fall on soil and strike root for a moment but if we do not continue to nurture it... it will wither. There are so many people here in Auburn that have made this decision to come closer to Christ and in turn... they still face opposition. But I think I am learning the lesson at the same time as our investigators that... the key isn't to "avoid the storm" but it is to "choose the right while the storm rages." When we make the right choices even amongst our trials. It shows great faith and then our Heavenly Father knows that we will follow Him selflessly. I love the Lord and am so thankful for His influence in my life and the lives of those we meet with. The Blottis’ and Angelina have really been struggling this week and my heart just aches for them. But I know they will be strengthened if they turn to Him. I am so grateful for you guys and for all you do. Speaking on March 10th eh? Wow. I can't believe how quickly time has flown. I guess sometimes I take comfort in the fact that we get to serve God for our "whole" lives. We get to serve in many callings in our life. I think about the many people from the Twelve Oaks 1st Ward who have had an effect on my through their church callings. Not even just the Twelve Oaks Ward but there are even people I remember from Tucson. Sister Moore. There are many truths I learned from those people that have helped me in my life and have helped me build a stronger relationship with my Father in Heaven. I am so grateful to have parents who have a testimony of that and have lived their lives according to His gospel. I love you guys! Thanks for all you do                 

Love,

Sister Mitchell