There are quite a few things that i never really thought-through before my mission. For example how hot it would be doing missionary work in non-air-conditioned-europe. I never really imagined me knocking on doors speaking German, which normally ended up with the door closing. I didn't anticipate the feeling of bearing my testimony in front of a large crowd in a language that you barely know. On the other hand, I never imagined the beautiful feeling of seeing someone enter the waters of baptism. I couldn't imagine the feeling of saying the right thing in a foreign language and feeling the Spirit so strong. Daily, I still have to pinch myself that I am on a mission. One year ago, I for sure did not picture myself on my 22nd Birthday on a mission in Austria.
All of these thoughts and feelings and more are why I am so grateful. As much as I would love breakfast in bed or getting sung to by my cute family, I am grateful today that Birthday started out with me putting on my little black name badge. As I reflect on the past 22 years of my life, there is so much that goes through my head. From childhood memories, family vacations, life-changing experiences, and sacred, special moments, I have been blessed with 22 busy, hilarious, and beautiful years. Through the broadcast last week, "I hope they call me on a mission" never really hit me like it did then. What a minute..i am on my mission! Super crazy.
I wish I could take the time to write 22 profound memories or major lessons that I have learned so far in my life. But alas, the missionary couple and a few great members are taking my companion and I to get "American hamburgers" for lunch! haha My european birthday just got a little more american.
But i wanted to just jot some of my thoughts and feelings...hmm maybe 22 random thoughts or lessons from Schwester Jaynes
1. Life is Good. Be happy.
2. I have learned that our Heavenly Father knows and loves us.
3. Laughing is the cure for anything.
4. The Book of Mormon is the word of God.
5. I love mustard.
6. German is hard.
7. Family is most important
8. Friendships are great.
9. Ice cold water is my favorite.
10. Comfort zones are overrated.
11. God's plan for us is way better than our plan.
12. I love the temple.
13. Christ suffered for our pains, sadness, not just our sins.
14. Hope is what the world needs.
15. Smiling makes the world a better place.
16. Good people are all around us.
17. Jesus Christ is my best friend
18. I am way too blessed.
19. Love one another.
20. Forget yourself and you will be happy.
21. Laugh some more.
22. Serving a mission was the best decision I have ever made.
Well there you have it. I am so grateful that our Heavenly Father has blessed me with so many lessons and experiences the last 22 years. I am eternally grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ that has allowed me to learn, grow, and be happy, Even though time passes, things and circumstances change, I am glad we have a loving God who is the same. I am grateful to be one of His missionaries.
Ich liebe euch!
XOXOXOXOXO
Schwester Jaynes
p.s. nothing like getting woke up by my german companion. She made me a German Birthday cake!
#blessed
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