Monday, September 10, 2012
The best is yet to come
Monday, September 10, 2012
Hey family,
So I didn't receive any information from any of you via email this week....talk about depressing! So I am going to assume all is well (?) if it's not I know you will tell me. This week was pretty uneventful other than lots of opposition, but Sunday was awesome. We had three investigators to church and found a new investigator that night! Sister Mansfield is a go getter and is not afraid of anything. She is teaching me so much! I honestly feel as though she is training me... but, seriously. She is great! We had a lot of meetings this past week and they were all so great. We are focusing on teaching the principles of the gospel simply and intensely and I feel as though the Lord is preparing us for bigger things this week. We are trying to stay diligent and obedient and trying to help bring others unto Christ. Sometimes I feel as though I get caught up in the little things of missionary work such as the daily numbers and the stinky choices people make to reject the gospel message. (boo.) But, I have to remember, this is His work, this is His time, and these are His children. We are only here to serve and give our best effort in helping them realize and recognize their potential and help them come unto Christ.
This letter will probably be short, since there is not much to respond to.... ha but, I love you all so very much. I pray for you often and hope all is well there. We had a funny experience yesterday. We were talking to this man who was outside as we were walking to go visit a less active member and we started talking and instantly recognized he was a little tipsy.... well, he asked us a lot of questions about the church and we gave him a pamphlet and Book of Mormon and taught a brief lesson to him and he was very open to listening, but he was not obviously in his right mind. He looked at me and said, "man you are totally getting sunburned." he then proceeded to take his hand and touch my face (pressing his finger on my forehead) to prove the color difference. It completely shocked me! I think I took a few steps back! Ah! It was hilarious though! He was crazy. Funny story for the week. Then we had a cool night where we were finding and decided to knock on this door. We started talking to this woman and Sister Mansfield asked if we would be able to come in for a few minutes and share our message. She said yes and we were both in shock because no one ever tells us we can haha we went in and taught a brief lesson to her and are going back to teach her more. She has a desire to learn more about Christ and God in her life and how that can help her be happier. We really are thrilled! It was such a miracle and tender mercy! We are excited to go back and teach her!
Please pray for us. I know you do, but those prayers really do help. There is so much to be thankful for. I'm going to be honest, this past week was a bit discouraging, but we move on and keep going! The Lord is in charge and as we do our very best, good things will happen. The work is progressing and we are doing our best to help the Lord. He has prepared people and we just need to be prepared to find them. Thanks for all your amazing examples of love and support and diligent sacrifice and service. I am so blessed to have such a supportive family. When the going gets rough, the rough get going! Done. Moving on! :) Life is great. At the end of the day I think to myself, "I have never been happier." Serving the Lord with all diligence of might, mind, heart, and strength is the most rewarding thing I've ever done. I am so grateful to my Savior who makes up for all the things I lack. I have never felt the reality of the Atonement more in my day-to-day life than I have while being on my mission. I could not do this without Him. ever. I do have a testimony of this work. I know this Church is true. I know God lives and loves each one of us. I know because He loves us He sent His Son Jesus Christ to Atone for our sins, pains, weaknesses, sicknesses, and everything else we go through so that we could access His sacrifice and become clean again. I know I can return and live with my family and Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ again one day if I hold out faithful to the end, repent daily, consistently renew my covenants, listen to the Spirit moment-by-moment, and endure with a steadfast hope in Christ. There are good things to come. We just need to remember the reality of His sacrifice each day. I am so glad and privileged to be serving my Lord. There is no greater calling in the church then to be set apart as a missionary. Thanks for everything you have taught me, especially about who I am as a child of God. There is so much hope in the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Tell Grandpa and Grandma thank you so much for the love and support they have shown me. I love them so much. I love you Nathan, Cherise, Lucas, Carter--(btw, we met a man with a grandson named Carter who was Carter's age and I totally missed my nephew's sweet little voice!), Nadine, Shea, Makena, little babe, Megan, Colton, Hads, and Kris (eh, eh?), and Nicole, and Craig (I guess), and little babe (eh? eh? I'M KIDDING!). And especially you Mom and Pops. I hope to make you all proud. You are da best!!!! :)
Enjoy your week of fall (before the real trials hit aka WINTER!) :) love you love you love you love you love you!
Love,
Sister Owens
Hey family,
So I didn't receive any information from any of you via email this week....talk about depressing! So I am going to assume all is well (?) if it's not I know you will tell me. This week was pretty uneventful other than lots of opposition, but Sunday was awesome. We had three investigators to church and found a new investigator that night! Sister Mansfield is a go getter and is not afraid of anything. She is teaching me so much! I honestly feel as though she is training me... but, seriously. She is great! We had a lot of meetings this past week and they were all so great. We are focusing on teaching the principles of the gospel simply and intensely and I feel as though the Lord is preparing us for bigger things this week. We are trying to stay diligent and obedient and trying to help bring others unto Christ. Sometimes I feel as though I get caught up in the little things of missionary work such as the daily numbers and the stinky choices people make to reject the gospel message. (boo.) But, I have to remember, this is His work, this is His time, and these are His children. We are only here to serve and give our best effort in helping them realize and recognize their potential and help them come unto Christ.
This letter will probably be short, since there is not much to respond to.... ha but, I love you all so very much. I pray for you often and hope all is well there. We had a funny experience yesterday. We were talking to this man who was outside as we were walking to go visit a less active member and we started talking and instantly recognized he was a little tipsy.... well, he asked us a lot of questions about the church and we gave him a pamphlet and Book of Mormon and taught a brief lesson to him and he was very open to listening, but he was not obviously in his right mind. He looked at me and said, "man you are totally getting sunburned." he then proceeded to take his hand and touch my face (pressing his finger on my forehead) to prove the color difference. It completely shocked me! I think I took a few steps back! Ah! It was hilarious though! He was crazy. Funny story for the week. Then we had a cool night where we were finding and decided to knock on this door. We started talking to this woman and Sister Mansfield asked if we would be able to come in for a few minutes and share our message. She said yes and we were both in shock because no one ever tells us we can haha we went in and taught a brief lesson to her and are going back to teach her more. She has a desire to learn more about Christ and God in her life and how that can help her be happier. We really are thrilled! It was such a miracle and tender mercy! We are excited to go back and teach her!
Please pray for us. I know you do, but those prayers really do help. There is so much to be thankful for. I'm going to be honest, this past week was a bit discouraging, but we move on and keep going! The Lord is in charge and as we do our very best, good things will happen. The work is progressing and we are doing our best to help the Lord. He has prepared people and we just need to be prepared to find them. Thanks for all your amazing examples of love and support and diligent sacrifice and service. I am so blessed to have such a supportive family. When the going gets rough, the rough get going! Done. Moving on! :) Life is great. At the end of the day I think to myself, "I have never been happier." Serving the Lord with all diligence of might, mind, heart, and strength is the most rewarding thing I've ever done. I am so grateful to my Savior who makes up for all the things I lack. I have never felt the reality of the Atonement more in my day-to-day life than I have while being on my mission. I could not do this without Him. ever. I do have a testimony of this work. I know this Church is true. I know God lives and loves each one of us. I know because He loves us He sent His Son Jesus Christ to Atone for our sins, pains, weaknesses, sicknesses, and everything else we go through so that we could access His sacrifice and become clean again. I know I can return and live with my family and Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ again one day if I hold out faithful to the end, repent daily, consistently renew my covenants, listen to the Spirit moment-by-moment, and endure with a steadfast hope in Christ. There are good things to come. We just need to remember the reality of His sacrifice each day. I am so glad and privileged to be serving my Lord. There is no greater calling in the church then to be set apart as a missionary. Thanks for everything you have taught me, especially about who I am as a child of God. There is so much hope in the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Tell Grandpa and Grandma thank you so much for the love and support they have shown me. I love them so much. I love you Nathan, Cherise, Lucas, Carter--(btw, we met a man with a grandson named Carter who was Carter's age and I totally missed my nephew's sweet little voice!), Nadine, Shea, Makena, little babe, Megan, Colton, Hads, and Kris (eh, eh?), and Nicole, and Craig (I guess), and little babe (eh? eh? I'M KIDDING!). And especially you Mom and Pops. I hope to make you all proud. You are da best!!!! :)
Enjoy your week of fall (before the real trials hit aka WINTER!) :) love you love you love you love you love you!
Love,
Sister Owens
Monday, September 3, 2012
Nephew!!!!
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10:15 AM (1 hour ago)
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First
things first, I'M GETTING A NEPHEW!! YAY!!! And second, mom thanks for
that package of yumminess (i haven't gained enough weight as it is) and
one of the drinks leaked so we the letter in it was soaked and I
couldn't read it :( sorry...
But, this week was great! We have found quite a few
new people to teach so we are trying to stay positive and help them :)
It's all about LOVE.
We have had some pretty great tender mercies happen. Each day we have prayed to be able to teach a lesson to someone, we've been provided an opportunity and been able to teach them! AMAZING. and we got 4 new investigators this week by obeying counsel from our leaders! love it.
We have had some pretty great tender mercies happen. Each day we have prayed to be able to teach a lesson to someone, we've been provided an opportunity and been able to teach them! AMAZING. and we got 4 new investigators this week by obeying counsel from our leaders! love it.
So I don't have much time, but we are having a ward
Labor Day Activity and we are emailing in a members home and they are
going so we don't want to use all their time... but this week was great!
We are looking forward to next week and this weekend our ward is having
another baptism for a man who is from Kenya. He is a pastor for his
congregation and the Spanish Sisters started teaching him and he came to
know it was true and is taking the gospel back to his people in Kenya!
He is such an amazing man! How cool is that story? Can you say the next
ensign article??? I can see it.
Taylor the Latte boy is a silly song mom. I guess
I'll just have to marry a taylor and it can be our wedding song. :) yes!
Anyway, I love this work, this gospel is true. He is in charge because I
mess up 94U0308423993 times a day adn get in situations that I don't
know how to handle and somehow it works out. Sister Mansfield and I are
so much a like it's ridiculous! We have lots of fun together and I feel
like she's training me. She's awesome. We learn a lot everyday and
have relied a lot on prayer. O boy. lots of prayer and fasting. We
still have lots farther to go though. I am just amazed at how much the
Lord expects of us and how much He sees our potential. He truly sees us
in terms of forever. I am going to try to do that this week, see
people's potential in who they can become :) LOVE.
And yes Sister Henstrom (Bishops wife) is cousins
with the Hiltons and saw them. Sister Henstrom is AMAZING! She is the
sweeeeetest lady in the world! It's crazy. We love them! This ward is
seriously the best ward I could possibly be in. I am scared of getting
transferred out of the ward.... I don't want to! It's too good here! :)
But, I gotta run. I love you a lot. I know Jesus Christ lives and loves
each one of us. He carries our burdens and wants to help each of us make
it back to Him and God and live with our Families forever. I love you
family. Thanks for your prayers, I sincerely feel them every day of my
life. I love you I love you I love you! Keep working hard and sharing
the gospel. Everyone needs it so much! DO YOUR DUTY VALIANTLY! Be bold
and loving in all things!
I love you,
Love,
Sister Owens
Monday, August 27, 2012
Somos Misoneras de la iglesia de Jesu Cristo de los santos de los ultimos dias
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10:49 AM (4 hours ago)
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I heard you talked to the Wilson's! They are so great! We just love them! I am so jealous they got to talk to you :) That story about Had's made me laugh! haha poor girl. I hope she understands living with her family forever is going to be heaven! how sweet is that?
This past week was good! We are learning a lot together and many many many times I feel super inadequate and clearly don't know what I am doing as a missionary. I don't understand what's going on half the time so we have to go by the Spirit a lot--always. This is the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. But, Sister Mansfield is amazing. She is such a trooper and is teaching me a lot. I just hope I don't ruin her for the rest of her mission... She is great though! We are actually a lot alike--it's kinda weird!
We are teaching a woman who is planning on getting baptized in the near future. We had another baptism this past weekend of a woman and her son whom the elders were teaching. It was really great. Sister Mansfield and I taught the Restoration to the group and we were so nervous! She had only been out 10 days, but she did fantastic! We are both just learning a lot and I feel like I've forgotten everything Sister Randall has taught me... AH! But, I do know that your prayers are helping. I have not felt super stressed at any time and I feel this constant peace inside even though things are crazy on the outside and I'm giving all the glory to your faith and prayers on our behalf. Heavenly Father is very aware of this work. I know He has confidence and trust in us, we just have to prove our availability and dependability. It's just so crazy!!! Please, keep praying for us.... we need it.
I am learning how little I actually know and how many mistakes I make every single day of my life. The Atonement is so real though. As I truly repent and strive to do better every day I feel that relief and peace in my heart and joy. I love being a missionary! I love talking and teaching and testifying of the truth. I love meeting so many different people and serving members and non members alike. I love seeing the gospel change people's lives. I love it, I love it, I love it. There is so much to learn and so little time! I can't even explain the feelings I have right now... oh man.
On a good note, we get to go to a Twins baseball game this Thursday for P-day! Today is our non P-day so we get to do missionary work today which we are super pumped about! Whoo! LOVE IT!!! :)
There are a lot of changes happening. Our mission President is super great and proactive so we are working on our teaching skills a lot more now. We are focusing on finding, teaching, and true conversion for everyone we meet. I love how much I am learning about setting goals and following through with them. This mission is the best mission ever. I am learning SOOOOOO MUCH! My mind is blown and overloaded sometimes and then I have to remind myself of the simplicity and purity of the gospel. So i feel like these letters seem more like a journal entry...I'll stop... sorry.
But, being a missionary is awesome. I can't believe how fast time is flying by. I don't want it to fly by. There is so much to learn! Heavenly Father definitely sends us on missions to refine us and polish us a little more.
It sounds like life is great back home! The kiddoes are all sounding fun and cute (wouldn't expect anything less). I miss them all. Also, you better be joking about not telling me if I am getting a niece or nephew in a few months.... I. will. die. When are they even coming?!?! I need details people! and lots and lots of pictures! Don't stress me out more than I already am!
And yes, mom, I did throw up after finding out I was going to be training....HI! I never knew my body would respond to stress in that way. I seriously didn't eat for two days probably. It was bad. But, I am lots better now! We are having fun and learning how to become better consecrated missionaries.
I can print emails off but it costs money so I usually just read them on here but if you want to print them off for me and send them in the mail that would be great too :) mail is more fun :)
And you have a names sake huh??! CUTE! I am so excited for Ryan and Kris Anne! And one last thing....
HAPPY BIRTHDAY NICOLE AND LUCAS!!!! I LOVE YOU! STOP GROWING UP SO FAST! Nicole, you are getting so old! AH!
Keep praying please. I love you all a lot and pray for you as well. I love this gospel. Remember how important you are to your Heavenly Father and how much He truly loves you. This work is great and needs the help of every single member who has had a chance to accept this gospel. EVERY MEMBER A MISSIONARY! Tell all the neighbors hello :) and that I love them. And tell Becca and Wanda thanks for their package I loved it! :) and thank YOU for the package as well mom! I loved it! NUTELLA! HI! ALL MY WILDEST DREAMS HAVE COME TRUE!
Love,
Sister Owens
Monday, August 20, 2012
What a Week
---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Kristen Owens <kristen.owens@myldsmail.net>
Date: Mon, Aug 20, 2012 at 10:47 AM
Subject: What a week
To: carolyn owens <carolyndowens@gmail.com>
Hello my lovely family,
I hope all is well in Utah. It sounds like it was a crazy week, but as long as it ended well we are all happy right? :) Well, my poor trainee is Sister Mansfield from Idaho! She is FANTASTIC! :) She has a lot of energy and faith and I am so excited to serve with her. She was a dental assistant and has amazingly beautiful teeth! haha seriously though I ask for tips all the time. We are surely learning A LOT together.... This past weekend was great! The baptism was excellent and they were confirmed on Sunday. They were both so happy! :) I love them so much. They love the gospel and are so excited to be a part of the church. We are basically finding a lot now and trying to stay balanced in our efforts, but hopefully this week we will be able to see miracles happen and make strides with the work here in Medicine Lake. The people here are great and we are trying to build those relationships with the members more now. There have been a lot of recent converts in the ward between us and the elders this past month so the ward has been doing great with helping them feel more comfortable. The ward is growing for sure! :)
Sometimes I wonder really why I have been given the opportunity to train because I still feel like I have no clue what is going on. It's ridiculous. Please continue to pray for us.... Your prayers help so so much! It's an overwhelming opportunity. Mom--THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE PACKAGE! I loved it! The quote especially about our abilities. It was such a tender mercy to receive that when I did. It came the night of transfers and it brought hope to my life! So the work is still going... we are going to be finding some golden people this week and I know the Lord has prepared people for us as long as we are diligent, obedient, and striving to become better, He will always fulfill His promises. My heart is softening a lot I think...Charity is something I have struggled with and now more than ever I really feel like it's going to become a part of me. I need so much refining! Bah!
I miss and love you family. A LOT. Sometimes the task at hand seems too hard to bare, then I think, wait, "I'M A MISSIONARY FOR THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS. I have been called to preach this Gospel to all those who will listen." This is the greatest calling ever! Seeing the gospel change the lives of people everywhere is amazing. I love it! I am learning so much about myself, the gospel, my Savior, and our purpose. The Doctrine of Christ is so essential. I love applying it every day. Faith, repentance, renewing that covenant of baptism, and listening to the Holy Ghost every day for the rest of our lives! We are so lucky to have a prophet on the earth today! We are so lucky to have the Book of Mormon which teaches us truth about who we are as Sons and Daughters of God. I love this gospel! Families can be together forever! I love the priesthood authority and the temple. I can't express the joy I feel when we share this message with those around us. So many people don't know where to find the truth and are truly seeking sincerely for it. We are praying and fasting for miracles this week! Our week is looking pretty exciting! I'll keep you posted :)
Nathan, Shea, Colton, Nicole=please write me a letter :) in the mail if possible :) you have no idea (well okay you probably do) how much getting letters lifts our spirits on missions. Also, if Sister Randall calls you at all tell her hello for me, mom. We are making progress out here in this area. I am learning so much and half of me thinks I need to be training because I need more training myself right now haha AH!
Well, I know this church is true. I know Christ is the center of everything. I know following Him is the only way we can gain salvation and never-ending happiness. I know God has a plan for us and part of that plan is having a family. Families are ordained of God. We get to live with our families FOREVER AND EVER! How amazing is that!!! There is no place I would rather be than right here in Minnesota serving with Sister Mansfield as a full-time missionary for the true church-The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. THE GOSPEL HAS BEEN RESTORED! What an amazing truth!
Tell the family hullo and I love them all! And tell Megs and Kim I love them!!! They will be amazing missionaries!
Love,
Sister Owens
P.S. kinda a cool story. So as we are writing our emails, a man who we have been teaching, but did not get to see last week comes and sits down right across from us! He said he had to work yesterday but him and his wife will be there next week! Tender mercy? yes. coincidence? no. The Church is true? Y-E-S. No doubt in my mind it is. I LOVE THE GOSPEL!
From: Kristen Owens <kristen.owens@myldsmail.net>
Date: Mon, Aug 20, 2012 at 10:47 AM
Subject: What a week
To: carolyn owens <carolyndowens@gmail.com>
Hello my lovely family,
I hope all is well in Utah. It sounds like it was a crazy week, but as long as it ended well we are all happy right? :) Well, my poor trainee is Sister Mansfield from Idaho! She is FANTASTIC! :) She has a lot of energy and faith and I am so excited to serve with her. She was a dental assistant and has amazingly beautiful teeth! haha seriously though I ask for tips all the time. We are surely learning A LOT together.... This past weekend was great! The baptism was excellent and they were confirmed on Sunday. They were both so happy! :) I love them so much. They love the gospel and are so excited to be a part of the church. We are basically finding a lot now and trying to stay balanced in our efforts, but hopefully this week we will be able to see miracles happen and make strides with the work here in Medicine Lake. The people here are great and we are trying to build those relationships with the members more now. There have been a lot of recent converts in the ward between us and the elders this past month so the ward has been doing great with helping them feel more comfortable. The ward is growing for sure! :)
Sometimes I wonder really why I have been given the opportunity to train because I still feel like I have no clue what is going on. It's ridiculous. Please continue to pray for us.... Your prayers help so so much! It's an overwhelming opportunity. Mom--THANKS SO MUCH FOR THE PACKAGE! I loved it! The quote especially about our abilities. It was such a tender mercy to receive that when I did. It came the night of transfers and it brought hope to my life! So the work is still going... we are going to be finding some golden people this week and I know the Lord has prepared people for us as long as we are diligent, obedient, and striving to become better, He will always fulfill His promises. My heart is softening a lot I think...Charity is something I have struggled with and now more than ever I really feel like it's going to become a part of me. I need so much refining! Bah!
I miss and love you family. A LOT. Sometimes the task at hand seems too hard to bare, then I think, wait, "I'M A MISSIONARY FOR THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS. I have been called to preach this Gospel to all those who will listen." This is the greatest calling ever! Seeing the gospel change the lives of people everywhere is amazing. I love it! I am learning so much about myself, the gospel, my Savior, and our purpose. The Doctrine of Christ is so essential. I love applying it every day. Faith, repentance, renewing that covenant of baptism, and listening to the Holy Ghost every day for the rest of our lives! We are so lucky to have a prophet on the earth today! We are so lucky to have the Book of Mormon which teaches us truth about who we are as Sons and Daughters of God. I love this gospel! Families can be together forever! I love the priesthood authority and the temple. I can't express the joy I feel when we share this message with those around us. So many people don't know where to find the truth and are truly seeking sincerely for it. We are praying and fasting for miracles this week! Our week is looking pretty exciting! I'll keep you posted :)
Nathan, Shea, Colton, Nicole=please write me a letter :) in the mail if possible :) you have no idea (well okay you probably do) how much getting letters lifts our spirits on missions. Also, if Sister Randall calls you at all tell her hello for me, mom. We are making progress out here in this area. I am learning so much and half of me thinks I need to be training because I need more training myself right now haha AH!
Well, I know this church is true. I know Christ is the center of everything. I know following Him is the only way we can gain salvation and never-ending happiness. I know God has a plan for us and part of that plan is having a family. Families are ordained of God. We get to live with our families FOREVER AND EVER! How amazing is that!!! There is no place I would rather be than right here in Minnesota serving with Sister Mansfield as a full-time missionary for the true church-The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. THE GOSPEL HAS BEEN RESTORED! What an amazing truth!
Tell the family hullo and I love them all! And tell Megs and Kim I love them!!! They will be amazing missionaries!
Love,
Sister Owens
P.S. kinda a cool story. So as we are writing our emails, a man who we have been teaching, but did not get to see last week comes and sits down right across from us! He said he had to work yesterday but him and his wife will be there next week! Tender mercy? yes. coincidence? no. The Church is true? Y-E-S. No doubt in my mind it is. I LOVE THE GOSPEL!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Every end has a beginning......
August 13, 2012
Every end has a beginning.....
Hullo My Dearest Family,
So start off mom to answer your questions we live in Plymouth, but our ward is the Medicine Lake ward :) And Saturday was incredible! Mom, the spirit was so strong at the baptism! Brother E and Brother and Sister H all entered into a covenant with their Heavenly Father and on Sunday were confirmed... it was a stressful Sunday btw because there was a complication with their ride to church and so they got there late... ah! we were VERY nervous to say the least... Anyway, President and Sister Clements came to the baptism and everything went so well. We sang "I know that my Redeemer Lives" as the closing hymn and OH MAN I was in tears it was such an incredible feeling to witness the spirit so strong. We had a great turn out and the ward was very supportive. Two recent converts gave the talks and they did such a great job. Afterwards we went to a member of the bishoprics for an African/American BBQ! It was so fun! The Africans are amazing in our ward. They really are incredible. And the food was SPIC-AY! But, Saturday was probably hands down the best day on my mission thus far--and definitely the best baptism I've been to ;) I love them all so much and am so happy that they entered into that covenant with Heavenly Father.
SO.......kinda got some big news to tell you all......Sister Randall is leaving to go home tomorrow!!!! And President called Sunday afternoon with some jaw dropping, heart stopping, tear jerking news....I'M TRAINING this next transfer!!!!! Can you say WWWWWHHHHAAAATTTT?!?! Um, hi..... I don't know what I'm doing as a missionary!!!! How am I suppose to teach someone else how to be a missionary???? So many, many, many, many prayers would be much appreciated--mostly for the sister who I will be serving with because I already feel so bad for her... ha. It was kinda a funny story because when you train President calls on Sunday's but transfer calls are on monday. And if you train you don't get a call monday. So this morning (Monday) we get a call and my first thought was "YES! He changed his mind!" and then come to find out it was an accidental phone call.............. funny joke huh? I've been praying for more confidence and faith in my heart because I feel like Satan really drags me down with negative thoughts about myself and it drives me crazy. I want nothing more than to be confident in who I am as a Daughter of God and as a Disciple of Christ. This will be such a learning experience and He will definitely be stretching me as far as I can go, but I do have a calm feeling right now as I am typing this. Everything will be okay (I think). This really is His work, and He is in charge, and I will give it my all and do my best to help Sister _____ become a diligent, hardworking, obedient, loving missionary. I am so far from being perfect--IT DRIVES ME CRAZY--but, I do know that I am going to learn to rely on my Savior and my Heavenly Father and the Spirit these next few months. If you could just really keep us in your prayers that would be great. There are so many things I am still learning and I feel like I have no idea how to do, but I know we are not alone in this and I really know angels will be our guides to find those whom He has prepared. It's not just about doing missionary work, but becoming a missionary or disciple of Jesus Christ. I have a lot of refining to do....hence, why I probably get to train....ahhhhhh. ahhhhhh. ahhhhhh. those are my thoughts right now.... AAAAHHHHHH!
On a brighter note, we have two more baptisms this weekend! And Sister ___ and her son are more ready than ever! They are the cutest and really were very prepared for the gospel. We are trying to prepare him for a mission actually :) So the new sister that comes gets to witness the baptism of some pretty incredible people and they are my favorite people ever. Sister Randall is already finished with her letters and waiting for me to finish because she leaves tomorrow!!!! I'm not gonna lie, if I wasn't gonna be training I would probably be a little trunky.....
But, I love you so much family. You are incredible examples to me. Keep being who you are meant to be. Never forget your purpose for being here. Stay focused and endure to the end. God is always there for us. He sent His Son out of love for YOU. And Christ came willingly out of love for YOU as well. He has walked in your shoes. For that I am so humbled and grateful to know..... I would be nowhere without this gospel and without my Savior. Once again, just please pray for me...I'm going to need all the faith and prayers I can get.... 1 ne 17:50 I'll work to have the faith like NEPHI and expect miracles! Heavenly Father is in charge now.... I have the choice to be diligent and obedient in this work and that is what I'll do.
Tell everyone else hello and I love them. Please continue to write, even if it's just a short paragraph in the mail...I think I'll really need the support these next few weeks.... I LOVE YOU! Thanks for being such a great family!
Love,
Sister Owens
Monday, August 6, 2012
Alma 37:33-35
From: Kristen Owens <kristen.owens@myldsmail.net>
Date: Mon, Aug 6, 2012 at 10:51 AM
Subject: Alma 37:33-35
To: carolyn owens <carolyndowens@gmail.com>
Hiiiii Family,
How is everything in Utah/Washington treating you? Thank you so much for the letters and pictures Cherise! Tell the boys I love them a lot! They made my week! I loved them :) I miss you all so so much! Would you mind sending me your address by chance so I can send a lil' something your way? Any exciting news happening this month to any of you? Do you remember that you have a little sister who loves you thousands of miles away? k good. Cuz you do, and she misses each one of you like craaaazy. Glad we got that established.
So I hope everything is going well there. The summer is almost over which is so weird--we are now entering the fall! Well, actually it's still hot here but things have definitely cooled down. I'm not melting like a Popsicle anymore :) But, the work is going good. We taught quite a few new people this week and things are great. I have come to find out I have many weaknesses in teaching...but I do appreciate your thoughts mom on never suppress a generous thought--if it invites to do good, it is usually from the Spirit. Sometimes I feel like I am not improving one bit at anything...then I realize that is false. And it's funny because I think right when we start to feel comfortable is when God decides to give us something to stretch and refine and polish us a little bit more... I kinda feel like that's how next transfer is going to be. I'm excited, but nervous. Sister Randall gets to see her family in 8 days--yes, I am very much jealous (I'll repent later for that..just kidding.) I'm so excited for her. It's been really neat to see how much her mission has changed her and all that she has learned. She is a great missionary and the Lord has been able to use her as an instrument to bring many souls unto Christ. She has such a deep understanding of doctrine and the Atonement. I'm amazed at how much she knows. When I come home I want to be able to say my understanding and love for the Atonement has increased ten fold if not more. Christ really is the center of everything. As we put Him and our Father first in our lives, everything else seems to fall into place. We come to understand why we are here and the importance of living the Gospel. We come to know, feel, and see the love of God in our lives. Every time we exercise our faith, He blesses us for it, even if we have to be patient and diligent and endure.
We have three amazing people getting baptized this week! They are doing great and we hope all goes well. That means the opposition is about to kick up so we have been trying to get our members involved as much as possible here--every day! Daily contact. And the members have been so good--they invite them over for dinner and FHE and come with us to teach them and boy do they make a difference. You should all go joint teaching with the missionaries more often. Trust me, they need your help :) I know nothing and the members thoughts really make a difference. To see the influence of the gospel in their lives has really impacted me. They are really amazing people. They know the things they need to do to make a difference in their lives. They have a desire to serve God the rest of their lives and build up the Church and such. It's so amazing to watch. We had a less active member of the ward recently come back and he actually received the Melchezidek Priesthood on Sunday. How awesome is that?! The Atonement is real. God has given us so many tools to come closer to Him and so many ways to partake of the Spirit. Thank you dad for always being there when I needed a blessing. Thank you for being worthy to give me those blessings of healing and comfort. I have seen so many blessings come from the priesthood in our home and am so grateful for a righteous family. Mom, I was reminded this week of your amazing example of strength and faith when you were going through treatments a few years ago. I often reflect on that experience and was reminded of the sweet memory of when we were sitting on the couch and you said something about death and dying. I remember it so clearly because when you mentioned it, the spirit hit me so strongly and I KNEW everything would be okay. I KNEW I would see my family again in the next life because of the blessings of the temple. I can never forget that witness. The Plan of Happiness is real. Heavenly Father loves us and so He sent His Son, the ultimate example of love and joy. Even though Christ suffered and descended below all things, I know He still found joy in serving and loving the people. I was reading in 3 Ne about when He visits the people and teaches them and tells them to pray while He goes to pray on His own. When He comes back, they did continue to pray without ceasing and His "countenance did smile upon them..." I love that imagery. Seeing Christ smile :) Smiling because you are obeying His counsel and He loves YOU. We have a boy with down syndrome in our ward who is the sweetest boy in the world. He bore His testimony yesterday and repeated many times, "Jesus Christ loves YOU." and "Joseph Smith loves YOU." Those phrases almost made me cry. He was so sweet as he bore his firm witness of the love of Christ. But, I loved how he emphasized YOU. you could just tell He knew. It was a very tender sweet moment.
K so now that I have drone on and on....This week is going to be great--difficult--but great! Thanks for your prayers and love I really do appreciate all the letters and support. Missionary work is AMAZING! I am learning a lot and sometimes it gets hard to keep an eternal perspective, but the Lord never ceases to be there for me and lift me up through the Atonement. I also have a firm belief that we have help on the other side of the veil. It's incredible to feel and know that so many people we meet on the streets have family and friends who are waiting to accept the gospel in the Spirit world and you can just see them working on the people here on earth. (That sounds weird, but I know we have help from both sides of the veil). Thanks again for all you do. I am excited to write to you next week and tell you all about this amazingly awesome fantastic fabulous week coming up! I love you once again more than words can say :)
Love, Sister Owens
P.S. I received half of a letter in the mail this week from my dear sweet cousin Kenzie... I only got the front of the envelope though.. the rest was lost in mail! haha isn't that funny??? So tell her thank you, I'm sure the words of the letter will lift and inspire someone else that reads it. I'm sad I didn't have the chance to! :( But I love you Kenz! Thanks for thinking of me and I will write you back asap :)
P.S.S. tell your sister KELSEY SUE to write me a stinkin letter so I have her address!!! please :) LOVE YOU!
Date: Mon, Aug 6, 2012 at 10:51 AM
Subject: Alma 37:33-35
To: carolyn owens <carolyndowens@gmail.com>
Hiiiii Family,
How is everything in Utah/Washington treating you? Thank you so much for the letters and pictures Cherise! Tell the boys I love them a lot! They made my week! I loved them :) I miss you all so so much! Would you mind sending me your address by chance so I can send a lil' something your way? Any exciting news happening this month to any of you? Do you remember that you have a little sister who loves you thousands of miles away? k good. Cuz you do, and she misses each one of you like craaaazy. Glad we got that established.
So I hope everything is going well there. The summer is almost over which is so weird--we are now entering the fall! Well, actually it's still hot here but things have definitely cooled down. I'm not melting like a Popsicle anymore :) But, the work is going good. We taught quite a few new people this week and things are great. I have come to find out I have many weaknesses in teaching...but I do appreciate your thoughts mom on never suppress a generous thought--if it invites to do good, it is usually from the Spirit. Sometimes I feel like I am not improving one bit at anything...then I realize that is false. And it's funny because I think right when we start to feel comfortable is when God decides to give us something to stretch and refine and polish us a little bit more... I kinda feel like that's how next transfer is going to be. I'm excited, but nervous. Sister Randall gets to see her family in 8 days--yes, I am very much jealous (I'll repent later for that..just kidding.) I'm so excited for her. It's been really neat to see how much her mission has changed her and all that she has learned. She is a great missionary and the Lord has been able to use her as an instrument to bring many souls unto Christ. She has such a deep understanding of doctrine and the Atonement. I'm amazed at how much she knows. When I come home I want to be able to say my understanding and love for the Atonement has increased ten fold if not more. Christ really is the center of everything. As we put Him and our Father first in our lives, everything else seems to fall into place. We come to understand why we are here and the importance of living the Gospel. We come to know, feel, and see the love of God in our lives. Every time we exercise our faith, He blesses us for it, even if we have to be patient and diligent and endure.
We have three amazing people getting baptized this week! They are doing great and we hope all goes well. That means the opposition is about to kick up so we have been trying to get our members involved as much as possible here--every day! Daily contact. And the members have been so good--they invite them over for dinner and FHE and come with us to teach them and boy do they make a difference. You should all go joint teaching with the missionaries more often. Trust me, they need your help :) I know nothing and the members thoughts really make a difference. To see the influence of the gospel in their lives has really impacted me. They are really amazing people. They know the things they need to do to make a difference in their lives. They have a desire to serve God the rest of their lives and build up the Church and such. It's so amazing to watch. We had a less active member of the ward recently come back and he actually received the Melchezidek Priesthood on Sunday. How awesome is that?! The Atonement is real. God has given us so many tools to come closer to Him and so many ways to partake of the Spirit. Thank you dad for always being there when I needed a blessing. Thank you for being worthy to give me those blessings of healing and comfort. I have seen so many blessings come from the priesthood in our home and am so grateful for a righteous family. Mom, I was reminded this week of your amazing example of strength and faith when you were going through treatments a few years ago. I often reflect on that experience and was reminded of the sweet memory of when we were sitting on the couch and you said something about death and dying. I remember it so clearly because when you mentioned it, the spirit hit me so strongly and I KNEW everything would be okay. I KNEW I would see my family again in the next life because of the blessings of the temple. I can never forget that witness. The Plan of Happiness is real. Heavenly Father loves us and so He sent His Son, the ultimate example of love and joy. Even though Christ suffered and descended below all things, I know He still found joy in serving and loving the people. I was reading in 3 Ne about when He visits the people and teaches them and tells them to pray while He goes to pray on His own. When He comes back, they did continue to pray without ceasing and His "countenance did smile upon them..." I love that imagery. Seeing Christ smile :) Smiling because you are obeying His counsel and He loves YOU. We have a boy with down syndrome in our ward who is the sweetest boy in the world. He bore His testimony yesterday and repeated many times, "Jesus Christ loves YOU." and "Joseph Smith loves YOU." Those phrases almost made me cry. He was so sweet as he bore his firm witness of the love of Christ. But, I loved how he emphasized YOU. you could just tell He knew. It was a very tender sweet moment.
K so now that I have drone on and on....This week is going to be great--difficult--but great! Thanks for your prayers and love I really do appreciate all the letters and support. Missionary work is AMAZING! I am learning a lot and sometimes it gets hard to keep an eternal perspective, but the Lord never ceases to be there for me and lift me up through the Atonement. I also have a firm belief that we have help on the other side of the veil. It's incredible to feel and know that so many people we meet on the streets have family and friends who are waiting to accept the gospel in the Spirit world and you can just see them working on the people here on earth. (That sounds weird, but I know we have help from both sides of the veil). Thanks again for all you do. I am excited to write to you next week and tell you all about this amazingly awesome fantastic fabulous week coming up! I love you once again more than words can say :)
Love, Sister Owens
P.S. I received half of a letter in the mail this week from my dear sweet cousin Kenzie... I only got the front of the envelope though.. the rest was lost in mail! haha isn't that funny??? So tell her thank you, I'm sure the words of the letter will lift and inspire someone else that reads it. I'm sad I didn't have the chance to! :( But I love you Kenz! Thanks for thinking of me and I will write you back asap :)
P.S.S. tell your sister KELSEY SUE to write me a stinkin letter so I have her address!!! please :) LOVE YOU!
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