I don't really have much to say this morning (it's about 5:45 am here right now...I've been up for the past hour just sleepless). But, seeing as how we're getting on the plane in about 18 hours, I figured this is probably my last opportunity to send something out. If only I could really express what I feel!
My time here in Thailand has been nothing short of spectacular. Difficult, to say the least. But beyond any expectations I ever, ever, EVER could've had for a missionary experience. The Thai people have changed my life. Their example and influence have led me to make changes in my heart that I'm afraid I never would've made otherwise (or at least would have taken much longer to correct). The past week and a half, we've had opportunities to visit old friends, members, and investigators. As I've talked with and reconnected with some of these people, I cannot help but feel overcome with gratitude! They have helped set a standard of living the gospel that I'm going to strive for the rest of my life. Even this past week I've seen the adversary creeping in, tempting with little things (reading, praying, etc). It will certainly be a whole new world at home, but I at least have the memories of this experience that will motivate me to overcome those temptations. I have to no matter what. I am determined! But it is breaking my heart to leave these people.
That being said, I cannot adequately express how excited I am to see all of you. So I won't even try. In just a short amount of time, we will all be able to witness it for ourselves!
Bottom line? I'm ready. I feel ready to go. It's taken some time to get to this point, I was dragging my heels for a while. But just yesterday and today, I'm there. I'm ready to walk on that plane and take home everything that I've learned, experienced, changed, etc, and applying the livin' daylights out of my mission for the rest of my life. This is experience is a goldmine for life lessons, and I'll be searching it forever. Thank you, family. Thank you for your support. For your love. For your advice. For your example. Each and every one of your have impacted my mission experience!
I know that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ live. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet, chosen to restore the fullness of God's perfect plan for us to return home. I know that we have every single thing we will ever need in order to live together as eternal families. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. Through it's pages, we can find the way to true happiness in this life, and the life to come. I'm grateful I have a book that can be my best friend and guide throughout my life. What a wonderful gift from our Heavenly Father! I love pouring over its pages, picking out individually packaged life lessons from Heavenly Father, according to what I need that very day. I know that we will be together forever when we choose to follow Jesus Christ. Without Jesus Christ, we never had an option in the first place! His atoning sacrifice gave us that option, and now we can choose. I plead with every single one of you--CHOOSE CHRIST! It is the only way. HE is the only way. We can go forward with faith and confidence in our step because we know who we are and why we're here. I love the gospel. I love my family. I love my life.
Until we meet again....Make it a great Sabbath!
All My Love,
Sister Nay
And now, my son, I have told you this that ye may learn wisdom, that ye may learn of me that there is no other way or means whereby man can be saved, only in and through Christ. Behold, he is the life and the light of the world. Behold, he is the word of truth and righteousness. --Alma 38:9
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
I'm Dreaming!
I need to apologize that I didn't get an email off yesterday, on my regular email day! It was my last day in Chiang Mai, so things got a little hectic. Long story short--here I am, finally writing this email, and I am so glad to do it.
WELL--this past week has been crazy! Last Thursday night, I met up with Dad and Mary. I initially came up to Chiang Mai to be with Sister Sorge, but just 3 days after I got there, Sister King and Sister Yinn followed me up there (Sister King is my greenie) because of the flooding in Bangkok. They evacuated the area and came to work with us! That was a blast. Who gets to serve in their greenie area with their greenie? Not too many people. :) We had fun. We separated Thursday night, and I had a couple members take me over to meet Dad and Mary at the hotel. Our reunion was so joyful--just a prepping for what's to come NEXT WEEK! I can't wait to see you all.
Since we met up, it's been a nonstop visiting, sightseeing, shopping, and on the go fun. It was a whirlwind to see my old area and all the old members and investigators. But I loved it. It was amazing to stand in front of that congregation last Sunday and see the numbers of the branch literally double since I was here last year. It's amazing! I felt grateful to be a part of that branch and be able to witness the growth. It was humbling, to say the least. The first picture I attached is of a dinner we were invited to at the District President's house that evening (Sunday). His family is one of the most humble and selfless families I've ever known...they have changed my life. Not much English (sorry Dad and Mary, they've been good sports!), but absolutely priceless to be able to talk with them. Monday we got up early and saw the sunrise, which was beautiful. I even got to go a cooking class! I've spent the past 18 months eating Thai food, but this class gave me a chance to actually make it (this is the 2nd picture I've attached)! That night we had the going away part a couple of members put together for me, that ended up just getting way out of hand. The 3rd picture I've attached is me with the sign they made--this is just to show you how much they put into it. I was blown away! It was full of singing, dancing, model walking, good food, laughs, tears, and a whole bunch more. It turned into a talent show more than anything. Ha. It was so Thai. I loved it. They finished it off with the classic, "God Be WIth You 'Til We Meet Again," (the 4th picture), and I've never heard a more beautiful version. Adorable. This morning? Got up, did a couple errands, then headed to the airport. Now we are currently in Southern Thailand (Phuket) on a beautiful beach.
This past week I've felt rather removed from everything. I was happy being in an area that I loved so much. In fact, the only time I cried the whole time I was there was when I talked to Mom--and that's because I missed her so much! The whole "going home" hadn't really sunk in. I felt like I was going to send Dad and Mary to the airport, tell them "thanks for visiting" and send them on their way, then I'd just get back to work. Until....today. We got on the airplane, and it hit a little. Then we got to Phuket, in a totally unfamiliar place, with the ocean around, lots of white people, in a new place...It sunk in a little deeper. I'm leaving Thailand. That's when I started feeling so much that I wasn't sure how to get it out, other than cry. I thought I had everything pretty under control, until today. I'm grateful for a little time to get my feet under me and try to figure out what I'm feeling. That's what the next couple of days are intended to be.
For now? I still love being a missionary. I stick my name tag on wherever I go. :) I love you all, family. I can't wait to see you. We're still waiting to see what will happen with the floods and things in Bangkok--we'll spend some time tomorrow figuring that out, and I'll let you know. But for now? Still plan on the 9th! This is the work of the Lord. I know that when I put Him first, even in the little details, things always work out. It is the beginning of trying to figure out how to apply what I've learned the past 18 months. Sheesh. Here goes! Make it a beautifully happy week--because next week WE WILL BE TOGETHER!!!!!
All My Love,
Sister Nay
WELL--this past week has been crazy! Last Thursday night, I met up with Dad and Mary. I initially came up to Chiang Mai to be with Sister Sorge, but just 3 days after I got there, Sister King and Sister Yinn followed me up there (Sister King is my greenie) because of the flooding in Bangkok. They evacuated the area and came to work with us! That was a blast. Who gets to serve in their greenie area with their greenie? Not too many people. :) We had fun. We separated Thursday night, and I had a couple members take me over to meet Dad and Mary at the hotel. Our reunion was so joyful--just a prepping for what's to come NEXT WEEK! I can't wait to see you all.
Since we met up, it's been a nonstop visiting, sightseeing, shopping, and on the go fun. It was a whirlwind to see my old area and all the old members and investigators. But I loved it. It was amazing to stand in front of that congregation last Sunday and see the numbers of the branch literally double since I was here last year. It's amazing! I felt grateful to be a part of that branch and be able to witness the growth. It was humbling, to say the least. The first picture I attached is of a dinner we were invited to at the District President's house that evening (Sunday). His family is one of the most humble and selfless families I've ever known...they have changed my life. Not much English (sorry Dad and Mary, they've been good sports!), but absolutely priceless to be able to talk with them. Monday we got up early and saw the sunrise, which was beautiful. I even got to go a cooking class! I've spent the past 18 months eating Thai food, but this class gave me a chance to actually make it (this is the 2nd picture I've attached)! That night we had the going away part a couple of members put together for me, that ended up just getting way out of hand. The 3rd picture I've attached is me with the sign they made--this is just to show you how much they put into it. I was blown away! It was full of singing, dancing, model walking, good food, laughs, tears, and a whole bunch more. It turned into a talent show more than anything. Ha. It was so Thai. I loved it. They finished it off with the classic, "God Be WIth You 'Til We Meet Again," (the 4th picture), and I've never heard a more beautiful version. Adorable. This morning? Got up, did a couple errands, then headed to the airport. Now we are currently in Southern Thailand (Phuket) on a beautiful beach.
This past week I've felt rather removed from everything. I was happy being in an area that I loved so much. In fact, the only time I cried the whole time I was there was when I talked to Mom--and that's because I missed her so much! The whole "going home" hadn't really sunk in. I felt like I was going to send Dad and Mary to the airport, tell them "thanks for visiting" and send them on their way, then I'd just get back to work. Until....today. We got on the airplane, and it hit a little. Then we got to Phuket, in a totally unfamiliar place, with the ocean around, lots of white people, in a new place...It sunk in a little deeper. I'm leaving Thailand. That's when I started feeling so much that I wasn't sure how to get it out, other than cry. I thought I had everything pretty under control, until today. I'm grateful for a little time to get my feet under me and try to figure out what I'm feeling. That's what the next couple of days are intended to be.
For now? I still love being a missionary. I stick my name tag on wherever I go. :) I love you all, family. I can't wait to see you. We're still waiting to see what will happen with the floods and things in Bangkok--we'll spend some time tomorrow figuring that out, and I'll let you know. But for now? Still plan on the 9th! This is the work of the Lord. I know that when I put Him first, even in the little details, things always work out. It is the beginning of trying to figure out how to apply what I've learned the past 18 months. Sheesh. Here goes! Make it a beautifully happy week--because next week WE WILL BE TOGETHER!!!!!
All My Love,
Sister Nay
Sunday, October 23, 2011
It. Is. Finished.
Pictures 1-my going away part in Sapaan Sung! 2-Me and sister King 3-my group from the MTC....we're dead. 4-a family I taught and they got baptized after I left in Chiang Mai! 5-me and Sister Sorge 6-surprise baptism yesterday! she's a cute Chinese girl. it was fun.
I am in Chiang Mai! I made it here Saturday afternoon, just a few hours after I emailed y'all. It was surreal, to say the least, getting all my bags packed up, in a taxi, and jumping on a plane. MORE than that, as we descended into Chiang Mai, I was just filled with such peace and excitement to get to meet the people I've grown to love so much. I was running on 5 hours of sleep in 2 days, but I was wide awake!! I got my stuff, met up with Sister Sorge, and we just got to work. As we taught at the church that night, members were coming in and out to learn institute, cleaning the church, etc. I got to see so many familiar faces, and it was just what I needed. My favorite was while we were in a lesson, Phii Jan (the lady baptized on my last Sunday here) peeked her head in the door to come clean, but saw we were in there, and so began to close it. Until it registered. The door SWUNG OPEN and she mauled me with hugs and laughs and kisses. Hahaha, luckily I was sitting on the floor teaching, or I would've been knocked off my chair for sure. Then she realized that we were in the middle of a lesson (luckily it was two younger girls that just couldn't stop laughing at the silliness of this lady--she's adorable, everyone loves her), and she left saying, "We'll talk later." Haha. It was a wonderful welcome back to my first area.
Since then, it's just been meeting lots of familiar faces, lots of hugs, lots of catching up, lots of confused faces at seeing me back here, haha. It has been like a dream........to say the least. But a really really really good dream. Now? We're expecting the sisters from Saphaansung (my old area I just left) to fly up here because their water and electricity got turned off for the floods. So we're expecting 3 more sisters (Sister Tano, Sister Yinn, and Sister King--my greenie again!) today, which is 5 in the house up here. That'll be fun for a couple days. Anyway, suffice it to say, I am loving being here.
I have had my final interview with President, and dinner, and testimony meeting, etc...that was all last Friday night at the hotel in Bangkok. Usually it's a little different, being at the house of the mission president. Instead he just interviewed us in the business area of the hotel, in an empty office. :) BUT, the power of his words and advice were just as penetrating as anywhere, I'm sure. His words will forever echo within my mind, and those feelings will remain with me throughout my entire life. I could never, ever, ever have gone without this mission. I'll leave it at that, the rest will take a lot longer to tell--and I get to tell it in person in just a few short days!
I love you, family. I love you for the support, love, and words of testimony you have expressed to me these past 18 months. You will never know how each of you have changed my life forever. It has been a sacred and spiritual experience these past couple days to ponder on the blessings I've obtained from my mission experience--some visible, most will unfold in years to come. I am overwhelmed. I love you, I'm grateful for you, and see you soon. Take care of yourselves, until that joyful event!!
All My Love,
Sister Naegle
"In whatever manner the Lord may choose to bless us during the course of a mission, blessings of missionary service are not designed to end when we are released by our stake president. Your mission is a training ground for life. The experiences, lessons, and testimony obtained through faithful service are meant to provide a gospel centered foundation that will last throughout mortality and into the eternities....President Thomas S. Monson has taught: 'missionary work is difficult. It taxes one's energies, it strains one's capacity, it demands one's best effort....No other labor requires longer hours of greater devotion or such sacrifice and fervent prayer.' As a result of that sacrifice, we return from our missions with our own gifts: The gift of faith. The gift of testimony. The gift of understanding the role of the Spirit. The gift of daily gospel study. The gift of having served our Savior. Gifts carefully packaged in worn scriptures, tattered copies of Preach My Gospel, missionary journals, and grateful hearts....There is no returned missionary for whom it is too late to consider the lessons obtained through faithful service and to apply them more diligently. As we do so, we will feel the influence of the Spirit more fully in our lives, our families will be strengthened, and we will draw closer to our Savior and Father in Heaven. In a previous general conference, Elder L. Tom Perry extended this invitation: "I call on you returned missionaries to rededicate yourselves, to become re-infused with the desire and spirit of missionary service. I call on you to look the part, to be the part, and to act the part of a servant of our Father in Heaven....I want to promise you there are great blessings in store for you if you continue to press forward with the zeal you once possessed as a full-time missionary.' "
--Elder W. Christopher Waddell
I am in Chiang Mai! I made it here Saturday afternoon, just a few hours after I emailed y'all. It was surreal, to say the least, getting all my bags packed up, in a taxi, and jumping on a plane. MORE than that, as we descended into Chiang Mai, I was just filled with such peace and excitement to get to meet the people I've grown to love so much. I was running on 5 hours of sleep in 2 days, but I was wide awake!! I got my stuff, met up with Sister Sorge, and we just got to work. As we taught at the church that night, members were coming in and out to learn institute, cleaning the church, etc. I got to see so many familiar faces, and it was just what I needed. My favorite was while we were in a lesson, Phii Jan (the lady baptized on my last Sunday here) peeked her head in the door to come clean, but saw we were in there, and so began to close it. Until it registered. The door SWUNG OPEN and she mauled me with hugs and laughs and kisses. Hahaha, luckily I was sitting on the floor teaching, or I would've been knocked off my chair for sure. Then she realized that we were in the middle of a lesson (luckily it was two younger girls that just couldn't stop laughing at the silliness of this lady--she's adorable, everyone loves her), and she left saying, "We'll talk later." Haha. It was a wonderful welcome back to my first area.
Since then, it's just been meeting lots of familiar faces, lots of hugs, lots of catching up, lots of confused faces at seeing me back here, haha. It has been like a dream........to say the least. But a really really really good dream. Now? We're expecting the sisters from Saphaansung (my old area I just left) to fly up here because their water and electricity got turned off for the floods. So we're expecting 3 more sisters (Sister Tano, Sister Yinn, and Sister King--my greenie again!) today, which is 5 in the house up here. That'll be fun for a couple days. Anyway, suffice it to say, I am loving being here.
I have had my final interview with President, and dinner, and testimony meeting, etc...that was all last Friday night at the hotel in Bangkok. Usually it's a little different, being at the house of the mission president. Instead he just interviewed us in the business area of the hotel, in an empty office. :) BUT, the power of his words and advice were just as penetrating as anywhere, I'm sure. His words will forever echo within my mind, and those feelings will remain with me throughout my entire life. I could never, ever, ever have gone without this mission. I'll leave it at that, the rest will take a lot longer to tell--and I get to tell it in person in just a few short days!
I love you, family. I love you for the support, love, and words of testimony you have expressed to me these past 18 months. You will never know how each of you have changed my life forever. It has been a sacred and spiritual experience these past couple days to ponder on the blessings I've obtained from my mission experience--some visible, most will unfold in years to come. I am overwhelmed. I love you, I'm grateful for you, and see you soon. Take care of yourselves, until that joyful event!!
All My Love,
Sister Naegle
"In whatever manner the Lord may choose to bless us during the course of a mission, blessings of missionary service are not designed to end when we are released by our stake president. Your mission is a training ground for life. The experiences, lessons, and testimony obtained through faithful service are meant to provide a gospel centered foundation that will last throughout mortality and into the eternities....President Thomas S. Monson has taught: 'missionary work is difficult. It taxes one's energies, it strains one's capacity, it demands one's best effort....No other labor requires longer hours of greater devotion or such sacrifice and fervent prayer.' As a result of that sacrifice, we return from our missions with our own gifts: The gift of faith. The gift of testimony. The gift of understanding the role of the Spirit. The gift of daily gospel study. The gift of having served our Savior. Gifts carefully packaged in worn scriptures, tattered copies of Preach My Gospel, missionary journals, and grateful hearts....There is no returned missionary for whom it is too late to consider the lessons obtained through faithful service and to apply them more diligently. As we do so, we will feel the influence of the Spirit more fully in our lives, our families will be strengthened, and we will draw closer to our Savior and Father in Heaven. In a previous general conference, Elder L. Tom Perry extended this invitation: "I call on you returned missionaries to rededicate yourselves, to become re-infused with the desire and spirit of missionary service. I call on you to look the part, to be the part, and to act the part of a servant of our Father in Heaven....I want to promise you there are great blessings in store for you if you continue to press forward with the zeal you once possessed as a full-time missionary.' "
--Elder W. Christopher Waddell
Friday, October 21, 2011
Floods!
I'm just writing to let everyone know that I am safe and sound--haha, don't worry about me. The floods are getting worse, and it's fun to see everyone preparing and hunkering down. But in many areas it's already hit! So President just wants us out of Bangkok. It's Saturday morning right now, and I'm just on my way to the airport to fly up to Chiang Mai. My group just left to America--I said goodbye to them early this morning, and now I'm on my own to get to Chiang Mai. It was pretty weird waking up alone in a hotel room in downtown Bangkok...and now I'm going to get on a taxi by myself to the airport. But while there, I'll be with Sister Sorge (old companion) in my greenie area. WEIRD. But I am really excited! :) I will be there until next Thursday when Dad and Mary come pick me up. I'm just giving you a heads up to my situation. So..........I'm gonna go eat breakfast and head out! I love you all, I am so grateful to be here. It's pretty weird that my whole group is gone now, and I'm just basically waiting....but I'm going to try to get up to Chiang Mai and work til I can't work anymore. I love you all! Can't wait to see you!!
Sister Nay
Sister Nay
Monday, October 17, 2011
Wish There Was Time...
Never enough time to say everything I want in an email. And if there were time? It's still not the same. So I'll do my best to summarize what I'm feeling today.
Where do I even begin? I feel very similar to Grandpa's email a few weeks ago, as he and Grandma finished their service as full time missionaries. I love what I've learned. I love how the power of love and unity through service is able to smooth out the differences, and we're able to work in unity. That's a priceless lesson I've learned. No matter HOW different you are, if you're united in purpose, than you can work successfully and happily together. I can't begin to name every lesson I've learned.
Right now, I'm still in Thailand. There'e been lots and lots of flooding (just 1 1/2 hours from my house, the floods were up to the 2nd story of houses....), lots of teaching, lots of raining, lots of laughing, lots of disappointments, lots of successful lessons, and lots of feeling the Spirit. I'm just...being a missionary. All this talk of going home is pretty far from me right now, because it's still not here. I guess next Thursday I'll be singing a different tune when I wake up and my planner doesn't have any appointments in it, but for now? It's still booked, and we're still working. I wish I could describe what I'm feeling better than that, but it all still feels like a dream. So? We'll just keep working!
Right now? We have AMAZING DATERS. AMAZING. 1. Miaw, who I told you about last week. Her mom who lives in the boonies asked for a Book of Mormon, so we sent it to her last week. She got it Wednesday morning, and read the entire book by Saturday morning. And she knows it's true. She's defending it with the preacher that comes to visit her, in the little town she's from. Uh huh. 2. Fang. Gets WHY she should be baptized, and WANTS it! Our lesson last week was powerful. We toured the church, sang "I am a Child of God," and talked only about the Savior and His importance. At the end of the lesson she said, "if I knew how important it was to read my scriptures everyday, I would've done it the first time you asked me to!" She left with a determination to read and pray daily, plus come to church every week. 3. Subin. A man from English, an also a previous investigator. He denied my request to meet the week before, but this past week, came asking to meet with us. We did, and HE GOT IT. He said it all just "makes sense," and he feels this is going to be the path that leads him to pure happiness. He wants it. And he's preparing for baptism. We have an appt to meet with his wife and 2 sons this week, too. Future missionaries! 4. Kib came to church yesterday. She asked to meet during the 2nd hour of church, and so I sent Sister King on switchoffs and I went with a member. We talked logistics about her getting a house/separating from her boyfriend, and it's all figured out and she's soooo excited to be baptized. Then the problem came up with stopping work on Sunday. She just started at this new job, and wasn't sure if they'd grant her request. But after reading in the scriptures together, she said, "I know that whatever God asks me to do, I will be able to do. I'll go ask for work off today." I asked, "And if they don't give it to you?" She firmly responded, "Then I'll quit and work somewhere else." I have a testimony of using SCRIPTURES. Alma, Nephi, and the Savior teach waaaaaaayyyyy better than I ever could. We got on our knees, plead for help, and she left to talk to her boss. 2 hours later she called me and said, "Sister! I get Sundays off!!!" Miracles are happening all over the place....
And there's still so mahy more I can't even begin to talk about.
Bottom line is this. I love this experience. I love what I have learned about being a true, honest, disciple of Jesus Christ. I know I've seen miracles in everyone I've worked with, but as I near the end, He is letting me see the miracle that has occurred within my own heart. I know that I've changed. I am dedicated and committed to living the gospel of Jesus Christ as long as I live, and doing all i can to help my friends and family return to our Father in Heaven. It's all so simple. The gospel is the most beautful, simple message I have ever heard in my entire life. And I cannot thank my Heavenly Father enough for this opportunity to share it with my brothers and sisters in Thailand. I am filled to the brink with gratitude.
I love you, family and friends. Thank you for your support. I'll see you all shortly....until then? Keep pushing. Soon enough we'll be talking and laughing together! I can't wait to see you. Make it a great week..........
All My Love,
Sister Nay
Where do I even begin? I feel very similar to Grandpa's email a few weeks ago, as he and Grandma finished their service as full time missionaries. I love what I've learned. I love how the power of love and unity through service is able to smooth out the differences, and we're able to work in unity. That's a priceless lesson I've learned. No matter HOW different you are, if you're united in purpose, than you can work successfully and happily together. I can't begin to name every lesson I've learned.
Right now, I'm still in Thailand. There'e been lots and lots of flooding (just 1 1/2 hours from my house, the floods were up to the 2nd story of houses....), lots of teaching, lots of raining, lots of laughing, lots of disappointments, lots of successful lessons, and lots of feeling the Spirit. I'm just...being a missionary. All this talk of going home is pretty far from me right now, because it's still not here. I guess next Thursday I'll be singing a different tune when I wake up and my planner doesn't have any appointments in it, but for now? It's still booked, and we're still working. I wish I could describe what I'm feeling better than that, but it all still feels like a dream. So? We'll just keep working!
Right now? We have AMAZING DATERS. AMAZING. 1. Miaw, who I told you about last week. Her mom who lives in the boonies asked for a Book of Mormon, so we sent it to her last week. She got it Wednesday morning, and read the entire book by Saturday morning. And she knows it's true. She's defending it with the preacher that comes to visit her, in the little town she's from. Uh huh. 2. Fang. Gets WHY she should be baptized, and WANTS it! Our lesson last week was powerful. We toured the church, sang "I am a Child of God," and talked only about the Savior and His importance. At the end of the lesson she said, "if I knew how important it was to read my scriptures everyday, I would've done it the first time you asked me to!" She left with a determination to read and pray daily, plus come to church every week. 3. Subin. A man from English, an also a previous investigator. He denied my request to meet the week before, but this past week, came asking to meet with us. We did, and HE GOT IT. He said it all just "makes sense," and he feels this is going to be the path that leads him to pure happiness. He wants it. And he's preparing for baptism. We have an appt to meet with his wife and 2 sons this week, too. Future missionaries! 4. Kib came to church yesterday. She asked to meet during the 2nd hour of church, and so I sent Sister King on switchoffs and I went with a member. We talked logistics about her getting a house/separating from her boyfriend, and it's all figured out and she's soooo excited to be baptized. Then the problem came up with stopping work on Sunday. She just started at this new job, and wasn't sure if they'd grant her request. But after reading in the scriptures together, she said, "I know that whatever God asks me to do, I will be able to do. I'll go ask for work off today." I asked, "And if they don't give it to you?" She firmly responded, "Then I'll quit and work somewhere else." I have a testimony of using SCRIPTURES. Alma, Nephi, and the Savior teach waaaaaaayyyyy better than I ever could. We got on our knees, plead for help, and she left to talk to her boss. 2 hours later she called me and said, "Sister! I get Sundays off!!!" Miracles are happening all over the place....
And there's still so mahy more I can't even begin to talk about.
Bottom line is this. I love this experience. I love what I have learned about being a true, honest, disciple of Jesus Christ. I know I've seen miracles in everyone I've worked with, but as I near the end, He is letting me see the miracle that has occurred within my own heart. I know that I've changed. I am dedicated and committed to living the gospel of Jesus Christ as long as I live, and doing all i can to help my friends and family return to our Father in Heaven. It's all so simple. The gospel is the most beautful, simple message I have ever heard in my entire life. And I cannot thank my Heavenly Father enough for this opportunity to share it with my brothers and sisters in Thailand. I am filled to the brink with gratitude.
I love you, family and friends. Thank you for your support. I'll see you all shortly....until then? Keep pushing. Soon enough we'll be talking and laughing together! I can't wait to see you. Make it a great week..........
All My Love,
Sister Nay
Monday, October 10, 2011
It's Coming...
2 more full weeks left of missionary work. Is this real?
I've attached some pictures of my recent bike crash. I don't know what the deal is lately! I made it my whole mission until NOW! Ridiculous. But the floods definitely had something to do with it, too. Ha. SO MUCH WATER! It's flooding all over the country right now. Oh, rainy season.
We did get conference this past weekend--all in Thai. Sister King was such a good sport! I can't wait to "re-listen" to it all in English. The translators are good, but certainly not the same as English. But I loved every second of it.
I want to share an experience of a woman that we just met, Sister Miaw. She is incredible. This will illustrate the fact that God is aware of His children, and is in fact preparing those He has chosen. Sister Miaw's mom is a member of some other christian sect in the boonies of Thailand, and has been trying to encourage Miaw to go to church here in Bangkok for quite some time. Over the course of the past years, she's seen how a belief in the Savior has blessed her mother, and recently, the past few months have changed her brother's live as well. She wandered into the church, looking for the truth last Sunday, but came just at the end of the meetings. We taught her 3 times this past week (before Sunday), and within those three lessons she had a date to be baptized the 6th of November, knew that Joseph Smith was a prophet, the Book of Mormon was the word of God, was committed to reading/praying daily and living the Word of Wisdom, and couldn't wait to get started on family history to take her family's names to the Hong Kong temple. She's already planning to go. When taught the Word of Wisdom, she said, "Well, I only drink coffee if I really can't go on without it...but come to think of it, drinking water is better. I know He'll provide a way. I'll do it for Him." She had to work Saturday, so she couldn't make it to the Saturday sessions of General Conference, but she was there bright eyed and bushy tailed on Sunday morning. She came in a half our before the meeting started and said, "Sister, I almost couldn't sleep last night I was so excited to come listen to the prophet's voice!" And she really, really means it. The 2nd session I got to sit with her, and it was just the pleasure of a lifetime to listen to the servants of God, while my investigor was scrambling to take notes next to me. I was all smiles. I know, I know that He has those prepared. And they aren't just in Thailand.
My biggest fear is that time will tarnish the truths I've come to treasure as a missionary. Family, I know that this is the restored gospel. I know that there are children of God waiting, knowingly and unknowingly, all over the world. Not just in Thailand. Sister Miaw could be your next door neighbor! When I'm home, I'm going to do my very very best to maintain these lessons I've learned as a missionary, and really apply them throughout my life. I'm not perfect. Far from. But I know that this gospel is the precious gem that we have been given to share. You're already doing so much--of which I am so grateful, and I know that your Father in Heaven is even more grateful. But I plead with you to do just a little more. I know that when we put our hearts on the line and do our very best (imperfections included), He will make up the difference, hearts will be opened, and lives will be changed. I will soon be leaving the ranks of full-time missionary service to come join you in the effort at home. I know we can do it together! I am sad to see this time end, but I'm ready to apply everything that I've learned these past 18 months. Grandma and Grandpa, I, like you, am sad to see it end. But I'm grateful for the time I've had here as a missionary. Nothing will ever take the place of these experiences I've had here.
Heavenly Father loves us. Jesus Christ lives, and through Him, we can be together as families forever. There is no greater truth than that. I love the simple, profound truths of the gospel. This is the TRUTH. Make it the best week yet!
All My Love,
Sister Nay
Pictures--1-2) pictures of the flood...and my subsequent accident....haha. don't worry. it's on the way to healing as we speak. i'm taking care of myself! 3) Sister Miaw! I love this woman. She's going to change lives. 4) I love getting the weekly emails, just not always time to read them.....i love you all! make it a happy week.
I've attached some pictures of my recent bike crash. I don't know what the deal is lately! I made it my whole mission until NOW! Ridiculous. But the floods definitely had something to do with it, too. Ha. SO MUCH WATER! It's flooding all over the country right now. Oh, rainy season.
We did get conference this past weekend--all in Thai. Sister King was such a good sport! I can't wait to "re-listen" to it all in English. The translators are good, but certainly not the same as English. But I loved every second of it.
I want to share an experience of a woman that we just met, Sister Miaw. She is incredible. This will illustrate the fact that God is aware of His children, and is in fact preparing those He has chosen. Sister Miaw's mom is a member of some other christian sect in the boonies of Thailand, and has been trying to encourage Miaw to go to church here in Bangkok for quite some time. Over the course of the past years, she's seen how a belief in the Savior has blessed her mother, and recently, the past few months have changed her brother's live as well. She wandered into the church, looking for the truth last Sunday, but came just at the end of the meetings. We taught her 3 times this past week (before Sunday), and within those three lessons she had a date to be baptized the 6th of November, knew that Joseph Smith was a prophet, the Book of Mormon was the word of God, was committed to reading/praying daily and living the Word of Wisdom, and couldn't wait to get started on family history to take her family's names to the Hong Kong temple. She's already planning to go. When taught the Word of Wisdom, she said, "Well, I only drink coffee if I really can't go on without it...but come to think of it, drinking water is better. I know He'll provide a way. I'll do it for Him." She had to work Saturday, so she couldn't make it to the Saturday sessions of General Conference, but she was there bright eyed and bushy tailed on Sunday morning. She came in a half our before the meeting started and said, "Sister, I almost couldn't sleep last night I was so excited to come listen to the prophet's voice!" And she really, really means it. The 2nd session I got to sit with her, and it was just the pleasure of a lifetime to listen to the servants of God, while my investigor was scrambling to take notes next to me. I was all smiles. I know, I know that He has those prepared. And they aren't just in Thailand.
My biggest fear is that time will tarnish the truths I've come to treasure as a missionary. Family, I know that this is the restored gospel. I know that there are children of God waiting, knowingly and unknowingly, all over the world. Not just in Thailand. Sister Miaw could be your next door neighbor! When I'm home, I'm going to do my very very best to maintain these lessons I've learned as a missionary, and really apply them throughout my life. I'm not perfect. Far from. But I know that this gospel is the precious gem that we have been given to share. You're already doing so much--of which I am so grateful, and I know that your Father in Heaven is even more grateful. But I plead with you to do just a little more. I know that when we put our hearts on the line and do our very best (imperfections included), He will make up the difference, hearts will be opened, and lives will be changed. I will soon be leaving the ranks of full-time missionary service to come join you in the effort at home. I know we can do it together! I am sad to see this time end, but I'm ready to apply everything that I've learned these past 18 months. Grandma and Grandpa, I, like you, am sad to see it end. But I'm grateful for the time I've had here as a missionary. Nothing will ever take the place of these experiences I've had here.
Heavenly Father loves us. Jesus Christ lives, and through Him, we can be together as families forever. There is no greater truth than that. I love the simple, profound truths of the gospel. This is the TRUTH. Make it the best week yet!
All My Love,
Sister Nay
Pictures--1-2) pictures of the flood...and my subsequent accident....haha. don't worry. it's on the way to healing as we speak. i'm taking care of myself! 3) Sister Miaw! I love this woman. She's going to change lives. 4) I love getting the weekly emails, just not always time to read them.....i love you all! make it a happy week.
Monday, October 3, 2011
3 WEEKS.
Another week flown by.....and we're down to 3. WHAT IS GOING ON?! It doesn't help that everyone (investigators and members) keep asking when the death day is....but it's okay. I've come to realize something this week. I anticipated the trunky feelings being way worse than this. Sister King is doing a good job at keeping me here. Have I mentioned that I love training? More than that, I just feel ready. I want to go home, I want to see all of you, and I want to take everything I've learned here as a missionary and use it throughout my life. I'm ready for that. The difference is, I'm not wishing it to come faster than it is! I'm ready to push hard, and finish my time here until the very last second. But when that time comes to go, I will be ready for it. 3 weeks. Really?
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DALLIN!!!!! I hope yesterday was so fun with all the family. I thought of you throughout the day and hope you had a wonderful day. 22? You're and old fart! I'm denying I'm that old. Lucky guy--you get conference on your birthday.
So, as you see the attached pictures, you will notice that last week we played Muay Thai. IT WAS SO FUN.......and way hilarious. Dad, thank you for teaching me how to talk people into things. It's served me well throughout my life, but last monday was the crowning moment. We went to the national Muay Thai stadium, because we heard by word of mouth that you could go play there for an hour or two, just to try it out. We showed up, and were disappointed to find out they didn't do what we'd heard about. A man wandered out from the building, and we got chatting. We persuaded him (Sister Johnson and I) to let us go play for 2 hours, 300 baht a person. (or 12 dollars). Soon after that, we found out he was the national Muay Thai coach--and we would be training with his trainers and the other national players. Hahahahaaha. I love sweet talking people. It was sooooooo fun. Throughout the time, he tried recruiting me several times. "Are you sure you've never played Muay Thai before? You had to have played in America." He was just this feisty jokester. As you can tell, we went all out. Full on training in the Nat'l Muay Thai gym. Well, at least we all know that if nursing doesn't work out, I have a future in Muay Thai.
This week we've seen miracles. An English student is truly prepared for a date--we extended the commitment the first lesson! I have gained a testimony of having member fellowshippers for our investigators. Kib has been an investigator for about a year, but hasn't been baptized because she lives with her African boyfriend who doesn't have the paperwork to get legally married. So she comes to church every week, and lives like a member (except for the law of chastity....). Just last week, she called us, asked to meet, and said her member friend would be there as well. We met at the church and she excitedly said, "Sister! I don't want to wait anymore! I'm going to find a room at the end of the month, and live apart from him until he can go to Africa in December. I don't want to put off baptism anymore. Talking with Leg (the member friend), I just feel it's the best choice. I feel so ready." This was all done behind our back. So? We're shooting for the 6th of November! We can't wait for her.
I still love being a missionary. Training (especially all the material that comes with it....the district videos, etc...) I feel so inadequate. If I had received this training when I was a greenie, I am convinced I would've been able to do wayyyyyyy more than I have. It has cause some feelings of wishing I had this training, but then I know that I have given my all. I know what I've done in Thailand hasn't been perfect. I know that others could've done "more" or "better," whatever those words even mean. But when I honestly talk with Heavenly Father about my time here, I know I have done my best. The greatest miracle of the mission is seeing Him use me, imperfections and all, to bring His children unto Him. There is no greater feeling. We're just trying to apply the things we learn in our district movies/studies/Preach My Gospel discussions. I love all I'm learning, and it's applicable throughout my life. I'm ready to use it all!
Make it a great week. We only have so many left.....
All My Love,
Sister Nay
Alma 42:29-31
Pictures: 1-3) Muay Thai! That was just for Daniel and Lauren...I didn't know what you were talking about before I left...but now I know. And it's awesome. 4) We got distracted by this old man playing the violin in the market today, Sister Tano plays. He was ecstatic when he figured out she played, and forced her to play for a few minutes. It was quite the attn getter. This old Thai man living in a shack in the market, making/playing the violin for life. It was cute.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DALLIN!!!!! I hope yesterday was so fun with all the family. I thought of you throughout the day and hope you had a wonderful day. 22? You're and old fart! I'm denying I'm that old. Lucky guy--you get conference on your birthday.
So, as you see the attached pictures, you will notice that last week we played Muay Thai. IT WAS SO FUN.......and way hilarious. Dad, thank you for teaching me how to talk people into things. It's served me well throughout my life, but last monday was the crowning moment. We went to the national Muay Thai stadium, because we heard by word of mouth that you could go play there for an hour or two, just to try it out. We showed up, and were disappointed to find out they didn't do what we'd heard about. A man wandered out from the building, and we got chatting. We persuaded him (Sister Johnson and I) to let us go play for 2 hours, 300 baht a person. (or 12 dollars). Soon after that, we found out he was the national Muay Thai coach--and we would be training with his trainers and the other national players. Hahahahaaha. I love sweet talking people. It was sooooooo fun. Throughout the time, he tried recruiting me several times. "Are you sure you've never played Muay Thai before? You had to have played in America." He was just this feisty jokester. As you can tell, we went all out. Full on training in the Nat'l Muay Thai gym. Well, at least we all know that if nursing doesn't work out, I have a future in Muay Thai.
This week we've seen miracles. An English student is truly prepared for a date--we extended the commitment the first lesson! I have gained a testimony of having member fellowshippers for our investigators. Kib has been an investigator for about a year, but hasn't been baptized because she lives with her African boyfriend who doesn't have the paperwork to get legally married. So she comes to church every week, and lives like a member (except for the law of chastity....). Just last week, she called us, asked to meet, and said her member friend would be there as well. We met at the church and she excitedly said, "Sister! I don't want to wait anymore! I'm going to find a room at the end of the month, and live apart from him until he can go to Africa in December. I don't want to put off baptism anymore. Talking with Leg (the member friend), I just feel it's the best choice. I feel so ready." This was all done behind our back. So? We're shooting for the 6th of November! We can't wait for her.
I still love being a missionary. Training (especially all the material that comes with it....the district videos, etc...) I feel so inadequate. If I had received this training when I was a greenie, I am convinced I would've been able to do wayyyyyyy more than I have. It has cause some feelings of wishing I had this training, but then I know that I have given my all. I know what I've done in Thailand hasn't been perfect. I know that others could've done "more" or "better," whatever those words even mean. But when I honestly talk with Heavenly Father about my time here, I know I have done my best. The greatest miracle of the mission is seeing Him use me, imperfections and all, to bring His children unto Him. There is no greater feeling. We're just trying to apply the things we learn in our district movies/studies/Preach My Gospel discussions. I love all I'm learning, and it's applicable throughout my life. I'm ready to use it all!
Make it a great week. We only have so many left.....
All My Love,
Sister Nay
Alma 42:29-31
Pictures: 1-3) Muay Thai! That was just for Daniel and Lauren...I didn't know what you were talking about before I left...but now I know. And it's awesome. 4) We got distracted by this old man playing the violin in the market today, Sister Tano plays. He was ecstatic when he figured out she played, and forced her to play for a few minutes. It was quite the attn getter. This old Thai man living in a shack in the market, making/playing the violin for life. It was cute.
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