What a week!
I'm not sure if I have much to report on. But here it goes:
As we were visiting Bonnie, we ran into an elderly lady. I asked her if she needed help with anything. She said she was fine. I asked her what her name was, and she introduced herself as Betsy. As I was introducing myself and Sister Vaisa she immediately became defensive told us she was not interested. I asked if she knew anyone who would be. She turned to us and said: "I don't think they allow solicitors in this area." I tried to explain to her that we're not solicitors, but she just kept walking away. It made me sad and a little frustrated. Oh well, I shrugged it off. But I thought it would be a funny story to tell.
That's not the first time I've been rejected. Some people will tell us things trying to hurt our feelings, or to get us to go away. It's hard, but there are still others who are ready to hear. But I've noticed in those moments when people reject us and question the gospel, if we put our faith and trust in Heavenly Father, then we can be strong in those moments. And nothing can knock us down.
This week, Sister Vaisa seemed frustrated about learning the lessons. I told her this gospel is so simple, that a child can understand it. She asked if the gospel is so simple, why is she having a hard time getting the lessons down. I told her it's like exercising faith- which is like exercising your muscles. You have to exercise every day in order for them to be stronger, if you don't, your muscles will get weak.
On Saturday, I woke up at 5:30 for sports just to get hit in the face with a volleyball. This time someone threw it at me. I think I should just quit trying to do sports and just focus on art and writing and theater, because I'm tired of getting hit in the face...blah!
I was given permission to visit my previous area and to be there for Joe's baptism. It was awesome! He has been very ill for a while, and I know that obeying God's commandments can bring us blessings. And he really needs it. I am so happy for him and the decision he's made. I got to say hi to Sister Hosea and Sister Riggs. I also got to see the Judd's, and others from the Branham Ward. I love them all so much and miss them so much already!
Baptism has been on my mind a lot lately. I know I've gotten two now, that I was involved in at least. But yeah, I hope to plant more seeds. And I hope I've been a blessing for the members. I just want to make sure I come back knowing I've made a difference. But I'm not discouraged. I still have a year thank goodness!
This reminds me of one of my favorite stories as a child: "Mrs. Rumphius" or the "Lupine Lady". In my childhood, I remember that Mrs. Rumphius wanted to make her town look cheerful. So she started by planting Lupine seeds. She planted them everywhere! Over time, those Lupine seeds had spread their beautiful colors and appearance all over the town, bringing happiness and joy to everyone. Spreading gospel seeds is the same. I want to spread gospel seeds all around me so that they will bring joy and happiness and beauty to all of those who wish to partake.
Baptism has been on my mind a lot lately. I know I've gotten two now, that I was involved in at least. But yeah, I hope to plant more seeds. And I hope I've been a blessing for the members. I just want to make sure I come back knowing I've made a difference. But I'm not discouraged. I still have a year thank goodness!
One of the things I want to accomplish while I'm in Livermore is working on my relationship with the Holy Ghost. I know that God is my Loving Heavenly Father, and he's like my Dad. I know that Jesus Christ is His Son, and he is my Brother, and my Best Friend. I want to work on my relationship with the Holy Ghost and have the same relationship with Him as I do with Jesus Christ. I'll have TWO best friends! How awesome is that?
- Always, Sister Brown
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