I'm Going On a Mission.

Published November 12, 2012

So, a few weeks ago, a historical announcement was made which changed the face of missionary work all over the world. Women can go on their missions at 19. TWO whole years earlier than was previously allowed. Wow. Mind Blown.

Really, though. I have been considering, and then planning on going on a mission for the last year. But I am only 19. And I still had two more years to wait before I could go on a mission. So, I decided to travel, work, and then go on a mission. Then I decided to just work and go on a mission. Then I decided to go back to school and then go on a mission. Whatever my current plan was, I was always going to go on a mission. In two years. But whatever my plan was at that moment, I never was fully satisfied. I had been saving money, something I had never done before and I had just sent my beautiful best friend on her mission to Arizona. And then the announcement was made. I seriously felt giddy.

So, I started wondering and searching and praying for whether or not I should go. I asked family for advice, and I consulted my patriarchial blessing. Weeks later I had not gotten a resounding yes or no. So, I wrote to by beautiful best friend and asked for her advice. I received her letter yesterday and it basically gave me words of encouragement and told me she thought I already had gotten my answer. I think I've gotten it too. Money saved. 19 years old. Considering it for a year. Patriarchial blessing. Feelings. Everything pointed to yes.

So, I'm going on a mission. A real, honest to goodness, 18 month mission. Now. I have started my papers and am hoping to maybe get a call by the end of December. What? Crazy. I know.

I also know that this gospel is true. I know we have true teachings from God himself, and I know God loves us. Each of us. Me and you. I know there is a plan out there for me, and I also know it is up to me to follow it or not. I know I am happier when I am following His commandments and I know you can be too. I know family is the most important thing in this life and in the next life. I know I want to be with them forever. I know there is a next life and a loving Heavenly Father and caring big brother, Jesus Christ waiting for us with open arms, ready to say "you made it. Welcome home". I look forward to hearing that. I hope that if you do not know these things that you are willing to find out for yourself. It is important.