Exactly 3 months ago today I took off my name tag for the last time and with that started my life as a returned missionary. Needless to say coming home from a mission is a very...interesting experience. In a year and a half lots of things change, including you. So coming home means you kind of have to figure out who you are again.
Some things I've learned since being home...
1. I dont like being idle. Sitting around is just so boring and its a complete waste of time.
2. The little things are and will always be important. Like....studying (not just reading) the scriptures everyday, praying through out the day, serving others as much as possible, and just being a friend. These things make a huge difference and I know I need to do these things to keep me happy :)
3. Heavenly Father has perfect timing at all times. He knew when I needed to get a calling, when I needed to start hiking with an awesome group of friends, and He knows when I need to get married...which is good since I definitely dont. He knows everything, which brings me so much comfort. Someone has my life under control.
4. Having time to bake again is awesome!...but eating half the batch by myself....not so awesome.
5. Portuguese and English dont mix very well...I still find myself switching words around.
6. RM friends are great! I love my returned missionary friends (as well as my other friends!). They have given me the best advice since coming home. I've had a lot of hiking adventures with a certain group and its been so fun!
7. I can still help people like I did as a missionary. Listening and caring will always be important.
8. Hugs are awesome! Ha ha
9. Its important to be happy where we are. I can be happy as an RM...being single...as a student...as a member of the university ward...and any other title I have now :) We should just be happy!
10. I can always be a missionary! And I plan to always be a missionary, just without the white handbook and name tag. Sharing the gospel brings joy!
Anyways life has been great so far. I am about to start school again and I'll also be working so life will be crazy busy and stressful again, but I'm looking forward to it :) I know Heavenly Father will help me through whatever comes my way and that He really does have a plan for my life that is perfect for me.
Keep on smiling!
Kaycee
Hi! I have been called to serve in the Brazil Victoria mission and I report July 25. I ran across your blog and I was wondering if you had any advice to pass on regarding serving in this mission (clothing, people, language, really anything). Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi! I have been called to serve in the Brazil Victoria mission and I report July 25. I ran across your blog and I was wondering if you had any advice to pass on regarding serving in this mission (clothing, people, language, really anything). Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHi Isabel! Congratulations on your call to serve in Vitoria! I hope you got your visa! Ok so for clothes, I would say bring light weight things that can be layered. It is really hot there and I think I only used a sweater a few times. That said, church buildings can be really cold so definitely bring a sweater! The people are really nice, or at least were in my areas. They generally like Americans but they also think you have money. If they ever ask for money say no. Also they are pretty touchy-feely, it can be weird at the beginning to get use to strangers hugging you and kissing your check but it is a great thing. I would also say that whenever you walk into a room make sure you greet everyone. Brazilians love missionaries and they need to know that you love them as well. Ok, now for the language...I had a hard time learning Portuguese! But the language is beautiful and comes with practice. Pray daily for the gift of tongues, it is real and Heavenly Father will bless you with this gift as you faithfully serve Him with your whole heart. Also, don't expect to become fluent while in the MTC. When you get into the field it can be overwhelming, but just be patient with yourself! If all you can do is introduce yourself and share your testimony then that is enough for the first few weeks. I am So excited for you! Please let me know if you have more questions. I have been home for about 2.5 years but still think about my mission often. I am grateful for sisters like you who have the desire to serve the Lord. Your mission will be challenging but it will also help you grow and become who Heavenly Father needs you to be. I have been RS president in my YSA ward for 1.5 years now and my mission has helped with my calling in many ways. Sorry for the long response, and I hope this was helpful! Boa sorte (good luck) and keep on smiling :)
DeleteUmmm cheek not check haha.
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