Here's a Thought...

So I have decided to write in this cute little font I found on here. :) Well, I have now been here for 51 days. Some of these days have been ups, and some have been downs...to be honest I cannot figure out whether or not if it is homesickness. Well, of course there are days that I know for sure are homesickness. I also know that some of these days are from the culture shock that I am still experiencing. However, I am hitting a personal struggle being here. When I was in Utah, I finally started to think that I was knowing who I am as a person...well being here really has forced me to a whole new level of getting to know myself. I am, in fact, far from knowing myself. Of course we are always learning about ourselves throughout life, but as far as the level that I want to be at in my life, I now know there is so much more to learn.


Instead of focusing on what I want to learn, or that I have so much MORE to learn, I would like to focus on what I have learned so far.

1. I have learned how important it is important to represent my religion in the right ways and for the right reasons. Before I came here to Switzerland, I really struggled with my beliefs, in God, in religion, etc, and wasnt the best example of my church. As you know, I lived in Utah where people of my religion are at vast numbers. In a way, it is a blessing, and also a downfall. I can tell you why I believe this. While I think it is great to have numerous people around you sharing the same beliefs, it is easy to forget that it is important to stand strong and be an example of your religion. After all, everyone is assumed to be lds, therefore values slip, and some try to prove to others how 'obedient' they are to the prophet, when its for the wrong reason. ( Dont get me wrong, it is IMPORTANT to follow our prophet.)So let me get to my point. Some follow the prophet ONLY to show others AROUND them how great they are instead of wanting to show the LORD how great they are. Its a shallow sense of obedience. Well, being here I now realize that I am the only one in my village who is LDS and one of a few who might even know who Christ or Heavenly Father is! Being here, I am a light among men, and an example to others. A major representative of this church. Also, having to sacrifice more time to get to church (at least 30 min each way) and knowing how small my ward is compared to most branches in the U.S. it makes you appreciate those around you with the same values.
2. You CANNOT rush children!!! I have learned to work better with my time (still a work in progress) but after wanting to scream and pull my hair out at how none of the kids knew what 'hurry' really meant, I finally came to the conclusion that you simply have to make time for THEM, not YOU. Children really do put their trust in us as examples and helping them get organized means you yourself must be first!
3. Ether was was right, after the TRIAL of your faith things will be revealed unto you. I have had to rely on faith in so many situations and everytime I have given myself completely to faith, I have had help.
   
   

TO BE CONTINUED.........