One major lesson I had learned was that our lives really are dictated by the choices we make. Before coming out on my mission I was faced with a choice. The choice I had was to either stay and perform in the last musical that the college I went to would ever put on, and finish my degree, or go on a mission as soon as I turned nineteen. It was something that had really weighed on my mind. I wanted to go on a mission and fulfill my duty to God, but I also did not want to miss out on the opportunity to participate in this musical. I prayed about it, and my answer came while I was sitting at church. We sang a hymn called, "I Need Thee Every Hour." It was then that the Spirit opened my mind, and then I knew that the Lord needed me ASAP! It was not too long after that I put in my mission papers, and I was called to serve in the Montana Billings Mission.
I have been serving in the states of Montana and Wyoming for almost two years now. My experiences have been many and varied, but I know that there are more ahead for me after my mission. I have seen many come unto Christ, and I have been delighted to help them. My own personal relationship with Christ has increased! After much prayer and fasting I have come to know Jesus Christ for myself! I believe in Jesus Christ. I would not trade my mission for anything else in the world.
Of course while I have been serving many things have happened at home as well. My sister, for instance, got her first boyfriend and her first kiss! My little sister! I was not there for that time to pull the "big brother" card or anything like that! My younger brother unleashed this new artistic talent that has blown many people away, and yet I had no idea that was going on! My baby brother got baptized and I missed that! Then my older sister has gone through a lot of grief, and I was not there to support her or help her out. My family has grown up with out me there. I guess that isn't a very comforting thought, but it is true. However, I know that the Lord has blessed them in their struggles because of my decision to serve a mission.
The lives of my family, my life, the lives of those I have taught have all been blessed because of my choice. The mission was not only about me, but about all of God's other children. I probably wont ever know what impact serving a mission has caused, but I do know that this service has been well worth it. I encourage all everywhere, who is able, to serve a mission. Even if you are not able, I know the Lord still needs you.
I have loved my mission, and I know that in many times in my life I will reflect back on the experiences I have had here. I will become a great asset for the Kingdom, as are every other young man or woman who chooses to serve a mission.
