Perfect... Imperfection...Seeking A Balance...

A Reflection of the Year 2024

2024-12-31T00:11:00.002+08:00

December 31, 2024

A Reflection of the Year 2024

Dear Elder Yu,

This is a brand new experience for you to celebrate New Year in a different country. I do not why I feel you are a little bit stressed out and down during the last Monday video call. I hope you are not.

For these past few days, I kept on reading this unknown author’s article about what he/she has been through for the past year of 2024. I don’t know if it’s because of the algorithm or because the text is so pertinent. I feel it is so resonant to me and my current situation:

I do not hate you, 2024, but you were a difficult year, full of challenges, changes, and learning. You showed me that life can change in the blink of an eye, and taught me to trust myself more. But above all, you made me understand that my health, whether physical, emotional, or mental, is what really matters. You showed me that not every question needs an immediate answer, and not every ending is a loss. You taught me that stillness is not stagnation. Sometimes, it is just like life making space for something new.

So no, I don't hate you. But I won't forgive you either, at least not yet. You dragged me through truths I did not want to face, through loss I was not ready to feel. You left me with wounds that have not closed, with breaks that have not settled into anything I can understand. I do not see light pouring in, not yet. But maybe that is the lesson. You did not come to fix me or redeem me. You came to strip away the illusion that life is anything but unpredictable, relentless, and brutally honest.

You did not rebuild me. You left me with the choice to do it myself. So thank you, 2024. You were not easy, but you were necessary.

我不恨你，2024年，但你是艱難的一年，充滿了挑戰、變化和學習。

你讓我明白生活可以瞬間改變，教會我更加信任自己。

但最重要的是，你讓我明白到不論是身體、情緒還是心理健康，都是最重要的。

你讓我知道不是所有的問題都需要立即的答案，並不是所有的結束都是損失。

你教會我寧靜並不代表停滯。有時，它只是生命在為新的事物騰出空間。

所以不，我不恨你。

但我也不原諒你，至少現在還不行。

你把我拖入了我不想面對的真相，讓我感受到我還沒準備好的失落。

你讓我留下了尚未癒合的傷口，和尚無法理解的破碎。

我還沒有看到光明湧入，尚未。

但或許那就是教訓。

你不是為了治癒我或拯救我而來。

你來是為了剝去對生活任何幻想的假象，

生活是多麼不可預測、無情且殘酷的事實。

你沒有重建我。你留給我選擇，讓我自己來重建。

所以謝謝你，2024年。

你並不容易，但你是必要的。

Honestly, I couldn’t agree more with this and I am not denying Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ were always there when I was knocked off by the challenges. I can feel Their presence. There are lessons to learn and to grow. Just that, the speed I learning is not as fast as what my husband wanted to be.

I am grateful for 2024 too, because I saw both my children grow stronger in the gospel and start to live in it; because I know they know God loves them and they learn how to rely on the Savior; because I know things happened for a reason which the Lord will unfold and reveal to me when the time is right; because I know that we are in His good hand. I say this in the name of my beloved Savior, even Jesus Christ. Amen.

Love,

Mommy

2024 FSY Asia Conference: "I Am a Disciple of Jesus Christ" 16-20 Dec 2024

2024-12-30T21:23:00.000+08:00

As I read about Annabelle’s experience at the 2024 FSY Asia Conference in Bangkok, I found myself thinking about my own children and their journey through life. As a mother, I want my children to be happy, make good friends, and find their place in the world. But more than anything, I hope they will develop their own faith in Jesus Christ and learn to turn to Him when they face challenges. I know I cannot always be beside them or protect them from every difficult experience, but I hope the things I teach them will stay in their hearts as they grow.

One thing that touched me was Annabelle’s honesty about feeling nervous when meeting people she did not know. I can imagine how uncomfortable it must have been for her at first. Sometimes, we look at young people and assume they will naturally make friends and enjoy being with others, but they also have their own fears and worries. As a mother, I sometimes wish I could make everything easier for my children. I want them to feel accepted and confident, and I do not want them to feel lonely. But Annabelle’s experience reminds me that sometimes we need to let our children face these situations and discover their own strength.

What I liked most was that Annabelle and her friend Cherrie wanted to help other first-time participants feel more comfortable. They remembered how shy they had been before, so they wanted to make the experience easier for others. This made me think about how our own experiences, even the uncomfortable ones, can help us understand other people better. I felt happy to see that Annabelle was not only thinking about herself but was also looking for ways to help others. As a mother, I hope my children will develop this kind of heart—to notice people who may feel left out and to be willing to reach out to them.

As I continued reading, I thought about the question Annabelle was asked during FSY: “Why be a disciple of Christ?” It made me ask myself the same question. I know that following Jesus Christ is more than attending church, reading scriptures, or participating in Church activities. It is also about how I treat people, how I respond when I am hurt, and whether I am willing to keep trusting the Lord when life does not turn out the way I hoped.

I want my children to learn these things, but I also know I need to keep learning them myself. It is not always easy to be patient, to choose kind words, or to respond with love when I am tired or worried. Sometimes, I know what I should do, but putting it into practice is another matter. Annabelle’s experience reminded me that discipleship is a daily choice. We do not become more like Christ overnight. We learn little by little as we keep trying to follow Him.

Another part that made me reflect was Annabelle’s lesson about the covenant path and the need to keep going even when things become difficult. Her experience reminded me that faith is not built only during the moments when we feel the Spirit strongly. It also grows through ordinary days when we still choose to pray, study the scriptures, and do what is right even when we do not feel particularly strong.

There have been times in my own life when I have needed to rely on Heavenly Father and remind myself to keep moving forward. I am learning that I do not need to have everything figured out before I can trust Him. Sometimes, I only need enough faith to take the next step. As a mother, I hope my children will learn this too. I cannot promise them that life will always be easy, but I hope they will know where to turn when it is not.

I also liked learning how Annabelle experienced a sense of belonging among the young people at FSY. They came from different places, but they shared their faith and encouraged one another. Her company was called Zion, which reminded me of Moses 7:18 and the idea of being of one heart and one mind. It made me think about my own family. We may not always see things the same way, and each of us has our own struggles, but I hope we can continue learning to listen, forgive, support one another, and turn to Christ together.

As a mother, I sometimes wonder whether I am doing enough to guide my children spiritually. I want to teach them the gospel and help them make good choices, but I know I cannot make those choices for them. They need to develop their own testimonies and learn through their own experiences. I can share what I believe, pray for them, and try to be a good example, but I also need to give them room to grow. This is not always easy because, as a mother, I naturally worry about the people I love.

Annabelle’s experience reminds me that Heavenly Father is also part of my children’s journey. He knows them personally and understands their needs better than I do. I need to remember that I am not the only one watching over them. I can do my best as a mother while learning to trust Him with the things I cannot control.

As I reflect on Annabelle’s experience, I realise that I am still growing as a disciple of Jesus Christ, too. I may be a mother, but I am also a daughter of Heavenly Father who needs His guidance, comfort, and love. I still have things to learn about patience, faith, and how to respond to difficult situations with a Christlike heart. Perhaps one of the most important things I can do for my children is to keep working on myself and let them see that I am still trying to follow the Saviour.

I am grateful for Annabelle’s experience because it has helped me look beyond the activities and friendships of FSY and think about what it really means to become a disciple of Christ. It is not just about what we experience during a special event. It is about what we carry with us after we return home and how those experiences influence the way we live.

As a mother, I hope my children will always remember that they are loved by Heavenly Father and that they can turn to Jesus Christ whenever they need help. I hope they will find good friends, have the courage to reach out to others, and continue to grow in faith even when life becomes challenging.

And for myself, I hope I can keep learning to trust the Lord with my children and with my own life. I do not know everything that lies ahead, but I believe I can keep moving forward with Him. Sometimes, that may be all the Lord asks of me for now—to keep loving, keep praying, keep trying, and take the next step with faith.

A Casual Lunch at Jordan Hong Kong Restaurant 26 Dec 2024

2024-12-29T11:42:00.000+08:00

Had lunch at Jordan Hong Kong Restaurant at IOI Mall Puchong and enjoyed a little taste of Hong Kong-style comfort food.

We had a few different dishes on the table. The egg omelette topped with luncheon meat looked simple but appetising, while the noodle soup came with tofu, fish cake, and other ingredients in a warm broth. There was also a rice dish served with sliced meat, vegetables, a soft-boiled egg, and crispy diced toppings.

I always enjoy having different dishes to look at and taste when dining together. The combination of noodles, rice, eggs, and meat made for a comforting, casual lunch. Nothing too fancy—just familiar food enjoyed in a relaxed setting.

Sometimes, a simple meal at the shopping mall is a nice way to take a break from the usual routine. Good food, a little conversation, and a change of scenery are enough to make an ordinary day feel enjoyable.

Another little food memory to add to my collection!

Scripture Central Come, Follow Me: Book of Mormon – Ether 1

2024-12-28T17:17:00.000+08:00

December 28, 2024

Scripture Central Come, Follow Me: Book of Mormon – Ether 1

Dear Elder Yu,

Ether 1 - Ether’s genealogy

In chapter one, Moroni begins telling us that he's going to tell us about the ancient inhabitants, he says, of this northern country, which is where the main Jaredite geopolitical center was. So, he's somewhere up north as he's writing this story, and he's abridging the 24 Jaredite plates. And, he describes how he got those. He sees an account of the creation of Adam. He sees all of the things that have happened from Adam down to that great tower, he says. And then, from the tower down until they were destroyed.

And then, he gives you a long list of 30 generations, 30 individual names. And, they're listed in order, starting in verse 6 with Ether and ending in verse 32 with Orihah, who was the son of Jared, number 29 and 30 in that list. What you have is 30 names starting with Ether, listed in order down to Jared.

So, some of you are thinking, "Well, this is boring. It's just a list. It's a long list of names." This isn't just a list. You're seeing the fingerprints of God through the history of time. You're seeing the importance of family. You're seeing God's plan moving forward, generation by generation. You're seeing intergenerational connections that span, in this case, well over a thousand-year period.

So, you have the Tower of Babel, just to put us in the context of the timeline for the Old Testament. You have Adam and Eve, and then you have Enoch, and then you have Noah, the major dispensation heads, and then we have Abraham, and then Moses, and eventually you'll get Jesus Christ and Joseph Smith. So, the timeline is the Tower of Babel comes in Noah's dispensation. So, we're going way back in time before Abraham, way before Moses. And, this is where we get the departure to the new world of this group, the Jaredites.

In contrast to Lehi and his group that left the Old World with Ishmael and Zoram, they left in 600 BC in the dispensation of Moses. So, there's a huge difference in space and time when these two major migrations occurred coming into the Americas. So, we have these 30 30 different people carrying forth to one degree or another this legacy of the Jaredites.

Three Needs for Revelation

Three things happen here in the beginning part of the story. Three needs for revelation. So, one of the principles for you and me, as we're striving to have our prayers go further than the ceiling in our room or in our chapel, wherever we are.

Principle No. 1: Don't wait for revelation to descend upon you or to hit you blindside. There will be times when that happens, but don't expect that that's the main form of revelation or where, as Elder Bednar says, we're simply making ourselves objects waiting to be acted upon.

There's a beautiful reminder to us that connects here that the Lord gave to the Prophet Joseph Smith in Jackson County, Missouri, clear back in 1831. He says this in section 58: 26 – 29,

26 For behold, it is not meet that I should command in all things; for he that is compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise servant; wherefore he receiveth no reward.

This principle is easy to understand if you translate it into normal life, either in a home setting or in a work setting. Do you want the employee who sits on a chair and waits for the supervisor or the manager to tell them what to do, when to do it, how to do it, where to do it, and why to do it?

And, only then they get up and go do it. And, the moment they're finished with that task, they come and sit back down and wait for the next job. Or do you want an employee who you can teach the principle of what you're trying to accomplish, and then that employee is going to be self-motivated and think, "What could I do to help move the purpose of this company forward or to accomplish the mission of this organization or of this war or this family, whatever it may be?"

He clarifies in verse 27,

27 Verily I say, men should be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness;

So, it's very important to note that if we do sit and wait, the Lord is still capable of giving us revelation, and he probably will.

But, we multiply our opportunities to receive revelation when we anxiously engage in living the gospel, in doing the things that we think the Lord would have us do, and as we seek to follow his example, as we learn of him and do the things that we have seen him do.

28 For the power is in them, wherein they are agents unto themselves. And inasmuch as men do good they shall in nowise lose their reward.

29 But he that doeth not anything until he is commanded, and receiveth a commandment with doubtful heart, and keepeth it with slothfulness, the same is damned.

It's back to President Nielson's invitation. "I plead with you to increase your spiritual capacity to receive revelation ..."

We're going to have to do the spiritual work. So, what is that?

It starts with keeping the Commandments so that we're capable of prospering in that revelatory process. But, we also seek and work towards getting more of those answers by going to the Lord with specifics.

The Language of Ours with God – Vertical Communication

One of my favorite things that President Thomas S. Monson taught when he was the prophet was that we rarely succeed when we speak in general. But, when we speak in specifics, we rarely experience failure.

The idea is that if we go to God in our prayers and say, "Heavenly Father, I'm thankful for all my blessings, and please bless me with what I need." That's general. And, we're probably going to get more of a general answer.

But according to President Monson, if we can be a little more specific, if we can counsel with the Lord in all of our doings, to quote earlier prophets in the Book of Mormon, then we're more likely to get those specific answers and specific responses.

In this case, watch what happens. With the very first request in verse 34, Jared says to his brother,

34 And the brother of Jared being a large and mighty man, and a man highly favored of the Lord, Jared, his brother, said unto him: Cry unto the Lord, that he will not confound us that we may not understand our words.

So, at the Tower of Babel, where the languages were confounded, Jared is saying, "Go and ask the Lord if He will allow us to still maintain our language, our ability to communicate."

35 And it came to pass that the brother of Jared did cry unto the Lord, and the Lord had compassion upon Jared; therefore he did not confound the language of Jared; and Jared and his brother were not confounded.

Isn't that an amazing principle for revelation? Our ability to talk to God and recognize God speaking to us – translates into, I want to be heard and understood, and I want to understand those around me as well. So, we have horizontal communication and vertical communication education.

The Language of Our Friends – Horizontal Communication

In this case, Jared asks his brother to go vertically to the Lord to preserve these horizontal connections of language. And, the Lord had compassion upon Jared. "... therefore he did not confound the language of Jared;" Then, you get the second one, verse 36.

36 Then Jared said unto his brother: Cry again unto the Lord, and it may be that he will turn away his anger from them who are our friends, that he confound not their language.

He says, go, "Cry again unto the Lord, ... that he will turn away his anger from them who are our friends, that he confound not their language." It began with our language, and now it has become the language of our friends and those in our circle of influence around us.

We begin at the core and principle of revelation, begin, get our soul in the right place, and cleanse the inner vessel before we start trying to fix other people's problems is a beautiful principle of revelation here.

We focus not selfishly on our problems, but actually with an eye to becoming a better instrument in the hands of the Lord. "More fit for the kingdom, More used would I be, More blessed and holy— More, Savior, like thee."

That's the intent of asking for blessings for us. Then, we turn outward and ask for those around us to receive some of those blessings.

Place of Refuge

That leads to question number 3 in verse 38. He says,

38 And it came to pass that Jared spake again unto his brother, saying: Go and inquire of the Lord whether he will drive us out of the land, and if he will drive us out of the land, cry unto him whither we shall go. And who knoweth but the Lord will carry us forth into a land which is choice above all the earth? And if it so be, let us be faithful unto the Lord, that we may receive it for our inheritance.

Notice this add-on, because that's a pretty general question. "And who knoweth but the Lord will carry us forth into a land which is choice above all the earth? And if it so be, let us be faithful unto the Lord that we may receive it for our inheritance." So, a place of safety, a refuge.

It's hard to receive revelation when you're surrounded by too much noise, too much commotion, too much chaos, too much misunderstanding. It's a little harder to have those open channels of communication.

And, so, it's this beautiful principle of, is there a place, a choice place, a place of safety, of refuge for us where we can go to live our life, and raise our families and build our culture.

And, the Lord, it says in verse 40,

40 And it came to pass that the Lord did hear the brother of Jared, and had compassion upon him, and said unto him:

41 Go to and gather together thy flocks, both male and female, of every kind; and also of the seed of the earth of every kind; and thy families; and also Jared thy brother and his family; and also thy friends and their families, and the friends of Jared and their families.

There's this long-term plan being put in place. We're not just going on a camping trip. This is a permanent change God going to make with these people. And, He tells them to gather the families. And verse 42,

42 And when thou hast done this thou shalt go at the head of them down into the valley which is northward. And there will I meet thee, and I will go before thee into a land which is choice above all the lands of the earth.

This is more than revelation.

This is a covenant connection. This is a relationship that is being built, a connection with the Lord, and He gives them step one. And, it's a gathering set of instructions. Gather people, gather flocks, gather food and provisions, gather everything you're going to need, and then begin the journey and take the first leg of the journey up to the valley northward, and I'll meet you there and go before your face.

So, God didn't tell them, "Here you are at point A, and I'm going to now give you every step, point B, C, D, and on and on and on." God didn't do that. He said, "Here you are at point A, and I will give you point B. Gather all these people and things and go northward, and I'll meet you there, and I'll continue to guide you," which leaves all of this future travel, all of these future events in the realm of the unknown.

Pulling Out Principles from Our Study

So, we're building our faith in Christ to take those first steps of a journey. So now, watch the contrast that I started with. You can bring questions, situations, and concerns into the scriptures, find principles and look for ways to approach them. Or you read the scriptures and see what they teach and then pull principles out.

So, let's give some examples of what that might look like, here. You could say, you've got people who are in an environment or in a setting or in a state of being where chaos is raining, where things seem to be getting worse, and they want more peace in their lives.

So, they're seeking direction from the Lord, and the Lord gives them inspiration of how to get out of that and move towards a promised land. All of a sudden, this starts to feel and sound an awful lot like the plan of salvation.

It starts to sound like more than just a story of a group of people clear back in the ancient world thousands of years ago on the other side of the planet who are on a physical journey. And, it starts to sound like, wow, this is our story.

And, the tower, the Tower of Babel part, could symbolize we could be a symbol of, rather, this Earth and mortality and the struggles of mortality and our efforts to come under Christ and follow His path, His covenant path, as He leads us to the ultimate promised land, which is exaltation and eternal life as a joint heir with Christ in heaven. And, that's a big-picture application that can come out of the story or off of the page.

And then, there are a whole bunch of little microcosm pictures that could come off. When you embark to serve a mission, whether you're an 18 or 19-year-old young man or young woman, or whether you're an older couple embarking on that mission, all of a sudden, Ether Chapter 1 becomes very applicable, very relevant as you say, "Wow, I'm embarking on this mission and God gives instruction of what to do in phase one, how to prepare for that mission and go to the MTC." But, we don't know all of the adventures that await. But, we move forward in faith, faith in Christ, that He will guide us.

It could apply to marriage, going into an engagement, and we're all excited and it's a thrill, and we have no idea what's going to come down the road. But, we move forward because we trust. We trust in Christ, and we trust in those around us to move forward together on the covenant path. So, these stories can come to life off of the page, and they can be motivating factors for us to give us more hope to not be governed by fear and to not be governed by what we don't know in the future. But, rather, make our decisions based on what we do know. And, the Lord gave them instructions, and I love this phrase,

42 And when thou hast done this thou shalt go at the head of them down into the valley which is northward. And there will I meet thee, and I will go before thee into a land which is choice above all the lands of the earth.

"... [And] there will I meet thee..." And, [there] might be a mission filled, it might be marriage, it might be parenthood, it might It might be a career, it might be an educational opportunity. It might be day one in a calling, a new calling that you've received in the church. It can be all these things.

But suddenly, when we take these kinds of approaches, the scriptures are never boring. They are never black words on a white page that are meaningless. They become a handbook for revelation, a handbook for hearing the voice of God.

We've had general authorities tell If you want to talk to God, you pray. And, if you want God to talk to you, read your scriptures. And, I would add, Listen to the living prophets. It's this beautiful principle that we don't try to make up some new way to connect with heaven. It's pretty simple. Pray specifically and then go into scriptures as we ponder and record our thoughts, specifically looking for those answers.

We're far more likely to receive them than if we just generically sit back on the lawn chair on the side of the path and wait for the Lord to come and get us up and tell us what to do and when to do it and how to do it. So, verse 43, he gives another promise,

43 And there will I bless thee and thy seed, and raise up unto me of thy seed, and of the seed of thy brother, and they who shall go with thee, a great nation. And there shall be none greater than the nation which I will raise up unto me of thy seed, upon all the face of the earth. And thus I will do unto thee because this long time ye have cried unto me.

I'm going to raise up a great nation because of your footsteps of faith. I'm going to bless millions in the process. It's a beautiful reminder to us to not think just of ourselves and our own situation, but to pause and step back and take a broader view of life. Think celestial, if you will, and think of the effect your decisions of faith to move forward today will have on generations yet unborn.

Share and Love,
Mommy

A Little Christmas Moment with Elder Yu ❤️ 25 Dec 2024

2024-12-27T00:25:00.000+08:00

Christmas 2024 felt a little different with Elder Yu away serving his mission. During the Christmas holiday, we had a video call with him, and it was such a happy moment to see his familiar smiling face on the screen again. Even though we could not celebrate Christmas together in person, being able to see him and share a little time together meant a lot to me.

One of the things I was looking forward to was knowing whether he had received the Christmas presents we mailed to him. We had sent him two books, Hidden Potential by Adam Grant and a book by Gerald N. Lund. When he showed us the books during our video call, I was so happy! There he was, holding up both books and smiling at the camera. I could not help smiling too. It was wonderful to know that our little Christmas parcel had reached him safely.

I think this photo captures the moment so well. Elder Yu looked excited to show us his presents, and I was happy to see that he had received them. Choosing and mailing the books was our way of letting him know that we were thinking of him during Christmas. Although they were simple gifts, they carried our love and encouragement for him as he continued his missionary service.

Christmas is usually a time when I think about family gatherings, sharing meals, and enjoying the company of the people I love. With Elder Yu away, we could not have everyone together in the usual way. I did miss having him at home, but the video call gave us a chance to share a little part of the holiday with him. Sometimes, seeing his face and knowing that he is doing well is enough to make my day.

As I looked at him holding the books, I also thought about how much he must be experiencing and learning during his mission. He is away from the familiar routines of home, taking on new responsibilities and serving people in a different setting. I hope the books will give him something interesting to read and perhaps some useful thoughts to reflect on during his mission. I also hope he knows that we are proud of him and that we continue to remember him in our prayers.

Being a mother means that even when our children grow older and begin their own journeys, we still think about them and wonder how they are doing. I may not know all the details of his everyday life, but I am grateful for the opportunities we have to connect and hear from him. I am learning to treasure these moments without wishing too much for things to be different.

This Christmas video call may have been a small event in the middle of the holiday season, but it became a memory worth keeping. The picture of Elder Yu smiling and holding his two books reminds me that family love can be expressed in simple ways—a parcel sent with care, a few minutes on a video call, and the happiness of seeing someone we love receive something we prepared for them.

As I look back on Christmas 2024, I feel grateful for Elder Yu and for the opportunity he has to serve the Lord. I am thankful that we could share this moment, even through a screen, and that I could see his smile as he showed us his presents.

Two books, one video call, and a son's happy smile—these are the little Christmas moments I want to remember. ❤️

Christmas Week in the Mission! ✨️

2024-12-26T20:13:00.000+08:00

Well for this Christmas week it has been AWESOME! We were able to work a lot more harder and sincere. Going with my all to bring others to come unto Christ!

Best Christmas tree we ever have, well half and half. Nonetheless the funniest tree we ever had!

Zone Conference

Well this Zone Conference was just amazing! And I loved it, we learned that gossip should never be a normal way for us to communicate with one another. But that if there is anything positive, uplifting and encouraging we can speak about a person's front or back. Let us do that! It's really beautiful to be able to learn that the Lord loves us. He has never ever talked bad about you has He? If so why do that to our friends, to others who are divinely connected back to our Father in Heaven as we are. To His children.

Surely that is never the way that the Savior wants His Disciples to be. Even though it's tempting, it is not a normal habit we should have. It is NEVER OKAY! I learned that He has never exposed us of our weakness, neither judge. But He has tried to succor us, guide us and strengthen our weakness. I am grateful for His love.

He loves you no matter what, and I too am doing my best. To have integrity and live the way He wants me too and it's like insanely hard but possible!

Promised Blessings

Something I learned is that we have the authority and power Sisters or Elders, dua-dua pun Ada that authority given by His prophet to share the gospel to all His children.

To help then make an informed decision in their lives and to help invite them to Come Unto Christ through Faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, Repentance, Baptism, Receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost and Enduring to the End. Which something I learned and am applying is that, you can promise people blessings, from the scriptures or personal experiences. We an promise them in His name, that if they do the invitation we extend to them in a kind and clear language. They can see teh blessings.

How awesome is that, it's like in Spider man (Tobey Maguire) when Doc Octo said

"The Power of the sun, at the palm of my hand"

Ain't that crazy like it's soo DIVINE! We can all do that, because we all have that keys to help others in Coming unto Him. I loved it soo much✨️ now I know I'm just yapping but it's a really sacred experience. And I was able to find out Church, Prayer and Reading scriptures have soo much blessings that the Lord can bless us with! It's really amazing!

Obedience

Well ever since Elder Dubreuil has been my companion we have been working really heard, and it's been inspiring! And I want to keep improving for real! I loves it! We worked like from 1pm to 8:45pm it turned to something like 12pm to 9:00pm and beyond. Honestly I am exhausted, I am tired and fatigued it's so hard. But at the end, I have seen the blessings of pushing myself and moving out of my comfort zone. I h a very seen the growth in all aspects and lessons I can attain. It's amazing! And something I was reminded from working all the way is by President Gordon B Hinckley he said:

"Do you want to be happy? Forget yourself and get lost in this great cause. Lend your efforts to helping people. … Stand higher, lift those with feeble knees, hold up the arms of those that hang down. Live the gospel of Jesus Christ”

And from that I am eternally grateful for all that I am able to do, with all my effort!

Lastly if you ever wonder why the work is hard, just remember. It has never been easy for our Savior to give us the gift of salvation of returning back to our Father. So why should it be easy for us? Even though the Savior suffered so much more than what we can comprehend, we can face hardship because He is there to help us.

You got this, because Jesus has got you✨️. Don't worry and move onward with His work! ❤️

Agents for Ourselves

Our KI number this week has been insane, we set a 5 knowing we can achieve them and gradually one lesson cancel at a time. Until we were left with 0/5 on Friday. And that's was just depressing all the way. Yet we continued, we strive to seek for lessons and find ways how we can teach our friends, daily contacting them too. Which at the end on Sunday our Teaching KI is 2/5 epic come back from.

From that experience something that was constantly in my mind was, it's not over yet, so how can we achieve it as best as we can. There is a bunch of factors that are out of our control, yet I learned that there is always something that we can do. We are agents for ourselves, not to be acted upon. And often the things we can do are so simple and overlooked, yet it brought hope an peace from their fruits that arise from it! I am grateful for that knowledge. And I am grateful for it!!

To know that we can always do something, even when circumstances or adversary is daunting He loves us and always hears our prayers. And I know that to be true. So just keep striving and fins ways to overcome your challenges!

Preach My Gospel

That is the best book I've ever read FR, that book teaches you so many things when it comes to missionary work and it's like another scriptures except it's not. But it's so helpful and guides me to learn so much more than what I already know. I am grateful for it!

Spiritual Thoughts

Well for this week it's Christmas! And it was the most awesome thing I've ever seen. Christ the Child was a divine film. But more than that I remembered I had the desire to find our what does the Savior's birth meant to me. But something I found was, it's okay to not know anything. Trust in Him and His prompting and act on it. He loves you and will never abandon you. In 1 Nephi 11 it's my favorite scripture as it talks about the meaning of the birth of Jesus Christ. Yet it was also interesting how Nephi was seeking for the Lord's help and heed upon the council and vision that the angel had visited him. And I loved it.

1 Nephi 11:20-23

20 And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms.

21 And the angel said unto me: Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father! Knowest thou the meaning of the tree which thy father saw?

22 And I answered him, saying: Yea, it is the love of God, which sheddeth itself abroad in the hearts of the children of men; wherefore, it is the most desirable above all things.

23 And he spake unto me, saying: Yea, and the most joyous to the soul

I know that Jesus is the Christ, He is my Savior and my Lord. He loves me and so does He love you too. And I say all these in the sacred name of Jesus Christ Amen.

My new Son Larry

Bob Marley Christmas Tree

Mahjong

Me and Elder Ramos!

Icelandic Ancestors & Welding Link

2024-12-25T18:59:00.000+08:00

December 25, 2024

Icelandic Ancestors & Welding Link

Dear Elder Yu,

Icelandic Ancestors

This is the final inspirational thought from my Social Science Statistics instructor shared with us this semester. It is about his ancestors' stories. Like many multi-generation Mormons with roots based in Utah, his ancestry is not exciting. He has some good pioneer stories sprinkled in there, but the countries of origin of his ancestors are quite typical. A few branches go back to England, Scotland, Wales, and one great-grandmother from Norway. But he does have one side of his family that is rather unique. His Great-Great Grandfather and Grandmother immigrated from Iceland.

Now there are relatively few Icelandic-Americans out there. The reason is, that during the time that people were leaving the European nations in droves to come to America, very few Icelanders ever felt the need. Except for one group. A handful of them found Mormonism in the late 1800’s and moved to Utah. Thorstein Peterson was one of them. He was not even from ‘mainland’ Iceland. He was actually from a tiny island off the coast of Iceland called Vestmann Island. And this is actually where most of the converts were from.

When the Icelanders arrived in Utah, they were almost all sent to Spanish Fork to settle, and they maintained a nice little community. Today there is a monument to the Iceland pioneers in that town, and that is where my instructor stopped with his family on a trip through Utah a few years ago.

Now this might seem like a nice little story on the importance of Family History and the learning of ancestry. However, my instructor prefers to look at the present and future. While he was talking with his children about the sacrifices that these people made and the blessings that he has today as a result, he was struck with a thought.

Each of you can imagine your hometown. Now imagine what it could look like 100 years in the future. Now picture a family on vacation and stopping in your hometown. Perhaps they are traveling in an amazing hovercraft powered by water or maybe garbage. But this is a family that is full of solid citizens. Temple covenants bind this family. They are not perfect but are trying and they are built around love for each other. As they stop off in your futuristic hometown, the parents point out that one of their ancestors lived here. And because of the choices made by this ancestor, they can enjoy the blessings and covenants that they have.

A Welding Link

My instructor’s sharing reminds me of Elder David A. Bednar’s talk years ago, “A Welding Link” https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/broadcasts/worldwide-devotional-for-young-adults/2017/09/a-welding-link?lang=eng which I would like to share with you. He discussed with the young adults the importance of being a “welding link” in their past and future posterity and active participation in the Church. The first time I listened and watched his devotional, I could feel the Spirit so strong that echoing in my mind that I needed to be the strong link, and the urge to do the family history work. The thing that I unanticipated was that I would be facing what I am facing now – my divorce. It needs both hands to clap. I think to be fair, your daddy is not the only one who is wrong in creating this in our marriage now.

As I restudy the talk, I feel an urge for you to learn from this simple and powerful devotional that might influence you and Annabelle in your good marriage, your own family, and every aspect of your lives:

“The very fact that I had not experienced righteous family patterns in my boyhood home created in me a strong desire to work diligently with Susan to make sure such patterns were always a part of the home we created together. As we counseled one another and pleaded for help in our prayers, we were inspired and blessed to help our children learn the principles of the Savior’s restored gospel. We certainly were not perfect parents, but we received the spiritual gifts we needed and found “help … beyond [our] own.”

“You and I are not trapped in our past experiences. We are not wholly and totally victims of our present circumstances or captives of our environment. The Holy Ghost will teach us all things that we should do, including patterns of family righteousness in which we have not previously participated. It begins with you! And with the Lord’s help, you can do it.”

“Some of you have had your hearts broken by family members or respected leaders who have not honored sacred marriage covenants. You may ask yourself, “If my parents or other couples I have known were sealed in the temple and their marriages did not succeed, what hope can I have that my marriage will last forever?”

“To you who have experienced the heartache of a divorce in your family or felt the agony of violated trust, please remember it begins again with you! One link in the chain of your generations may have been broken, but the other righteous links and what remains of the chain are nonetheless eternally important. You can add strength to your chain and perhaps even help to restore the broken links. That work will be accomplished one by one.”

“We are sons and daughters of God. According to the Father’s eternal plan of happiness, we are endowed with the gift of moral agency and are agents with the capacity to act. We are not merely objects to be acted upon. We are agents unto ourselves and should be anxiously engaged in bringing to pass much righteousness.”

“A fulfilling and happy marriage is not found; rather, it is created by a covenant-keeping man and woman. I fear some of you may be engaging in an endless search for something that does not exist. There is no perfect potential spouse who can safeguard you from emotional pain and spiritual anguish. But in the strength of the Lord, a faithful man and woman acting as agents can create the fulfilling marriage and the eternal family they hope and yearn to have.”

“Selflessly serving in a marriage relationship requires patience and persistence in a world that relentlessly encourages self-centeredness and selfishness. But it begins with you as you act and press forward with faith in the Savior, continually seek for heavenly help, and righteously exercise your moral agency. You can do it with the Lord’s help.”

The Promise and Blessings

“Becoming a welding link begins with you by doing the simple things Brother and Sister Call did to honor sacred covenants and teach their children to live and love the restored gospel of Jesus Christ.”

“Becoming a welding link begins with you by having the courage and faith in the Savior to turn right, just like Brother Antwi.”

“Becoming a welding link begins with you by trusting the Holy Ghost to teach you all things and illuminate your pathway, even when you do not know precisely beforehand where you should go and what you should do.”

“Becoming a welding link begins with you by diligently and valiantly chasing darkness from among you¹² and standing strong against the seductive evils of the latter days.”

“I invoke upon you an apostolic blessing, even that by the power of the Holy Ghost you may understand more fully the importance of your place in the chain of the generations. I know you will be blessed and strengthened as you strive to become a strong welding link. And I promise that with the help of the Lord you can do it!”

“Eternal family links are only welded together through priesthood authority and personal righteousness. Whatever bad things may have occurred in your family, I testify and promise that the Lord Jesus Christ is the source of the healing, renewing, and restoring that you need.”

“Weeping may have endured during the night of your adversity, but joy can come in the morning of your new life made possible by our Redeemer and Savior.”

Just remember that our choices will impact not only our own lives but the lives of many others.

Love,
Mommy

December 10, 2023. A reference to D&C 128:18. “It is sufficient to know, in this case, that the earth will be smitten with a curse unless there is a welding link of some kind or other between the fathers and the children, upon some subject or other—and behold what is that subject? It is the baptism for the dead. For we without them cannot be made perfect; neither can they without us be made perfect. Neither can they nor we be made perfect without those who have died in the gospel also; for it is necessary in the ushering in of the dispensation of the fulness of times, which dispensation is now beginning to usher in, that a whole and complete and perfect union, and welding together of dispensations, and keys, and powers, and glories should take place, and be revealed from the days of Adam even to the present time.” The blue circle represents a baptismal font; the small triangles represent the oxen; and the white circles in the background represent our deceased ancestors. Made with Figma and Affinity Photo.

#baptism #doctrine-and-covenants #family #family-history #genealogy

Licensing and usage

This piece is licensed under the Creative Commons. You’re also welcome to use it in church-related use cases (classes, newsletters, activities, flyers, etc.) with no attribution needed.

From Annabelle to Elder Yu: Day 2 of FSY Asia Conference

2024-12-24T22:57:00.000+08:00

Well starting during this week was the question "Why be a disciple of Christ?", and we had to contemplate our answers to it during the whole FSY. What better way than having morning devotionals and gospel studies with the company?

Feast upon the Words of Christ

I learnt that the Lord will assist us through what He called us to do. 2 Nephi 32:3 is a great example of application to Nephi's life and actions when he feasted on the words of Christ. When we feast upon the words of Christ, we can know what we should do. I feel that helps us through callings we have during our mortal journey. Church callings or personal ones, we are bound to face hardships. I know that as we turn towards Him, He will help. Have you ever heard the phrase:

" If you want to talk to or ask God, pray to Him. If you want God to talk to you, read the scriptures."

Plus, it's His word, and as I echo what your trainer said to you: "God doesn't bet all that He has to a single missionary." Nor to a striving covenant path follower, He sent people we loved to strengthen each other. And as long as we have faith in Him and be meek and humble, we can be given the power to do "whatsoever thing is expedient in [Him]" ( Moroni 7:33). That because He had called us to do His work, doesn't mean He leaves it all to us. It's His work and it is our pleasure to serve Him. So we can have faith in our fun.

Words Matter

The next was a devotional with the session-directing couple, the Maitlands. He's Scottish!!! But I learnt that Words Matter! Not only to those we love and minister, the people we aren't so sure with, but also to us, ourselves! To treat ourselves and our neighbours kindly. Also! About the power of the words of Christ. No matter what time, mood or struggles you feel, the scriptures answer most of them because the verses are Living, Powerful and the Truth! They are quick and simple, but they still give power to us, if we but heed them.

Then Classes!

First, was a couple by the Bell naps? Sister Cheryl and Elder Boyd. They taught us about the importance of our names by playing an icebreaker. We did so by taking one shoe and placing it on the table. People came up and chose a random shoe and asked whose it was, asking their name and its meaning. Then we learnt about taking upon the name of Christ and His different titles as we are baptised. We make and keep our covenants to remember Him and what He has done for us. However, as we're taking upon His name, does that mean we should just stop there? Nay! We must take action. So if we want to be a friend to others, we can't just sit and wait. This was beautifully illustrated by a song using actions and an American hat with three corners. Then slowly, the keywords would slowly disappear, but we still motioned the words. Even without the words, you could still tell what it meant. Then, we ended the class with a list of things we can do to be His disciples and take upon His name more effectively.

Second was "Boringness" or "Choose Your Adventure". Brother Dustin. He started it off by saying that he had moved a lot during his childhood and that he was saddened at the fact he didn't feel at home. But he had the experience and comfort of the Holy Ghost that: No matter where you go, where you are right now and how far you are, you can always feel at home with the power of the Holy Ghost. Which leads to us relying on the Holy Ghost more often and our Spiritual Strength through our trials. Then, we can more fully rely and be more converted unto Him, GIVING THE APPLICATION OF:

"Because I know..., I will..."

We did this activity by writing our answer in the blank and crumpling the paper, throwing it to another person. This is what I got:

I like what this person wrote, it displaces my dread with joy because I know walking on the covenant path is hard, but it's not impossible. Which brings me to my topic:

Sometimes the Lord pushes us past our limits- more than what we had been practising for. Brother Dustin recounted his story of attempting a triathlon. He had thought it was a one-round race with 3 different activities. However! As it turns out, it was a 3-lap race with those 3 different activities. Of course, he was tired after everything but he recounted that sometimes we can be pushed above our limits - even tiring our physical capacity- but that's where we use our spiritual strength. To me, spirituality sounds like the motivation in your head that, hey you can do it because the Lord is with you. We still have to put in effort and consistent work to make a STEADY AND TRANQUIL DEDICATION OF A LIFETIME. Whether that be physical goals or our testimonies. Because we often have a powerful miracle but always let it be short-lived.

That's 2 classes, there are still 2 more but this is starting to get wordy and long. So I'll update you later. Because after the 2 classes, it was lunch! Hope you find peace today and have fun.

Sincerely,
Annabelle

From Annabelle to Elder Yu: Day 1 of FSY Asia Conference

2024-12-23T17:54:00.000+08:00

HELLO ELDER YU!!! I'M BACK FROM MY FSY IN BANGKOK!!! AND MANY ARE THE THINGS I'D LIKE TO TELL YOU!

First of all, going there. The KL youths were gathered at the airport and shot off to Bangkok with the guidance of the chaperones, Janeelyn's grandparents. Throughout the whole journey, I was a nervous wreck. Like, I knew I would at least improve my socialising with people I never knew, even if it's just a bit, but I was still fumbling and quiet as I circled on what to say. Because the thing is, Cherrie and I had planned a little project or a little secret combination. HAHAHA

No nut really cause we recalled being shy on our first FSY and wanted first-timers to feel at ease, especially with people they want to know during it all, But even so, how do you bring this up to a person? Like it sounds easy but it was definitely out of my comfort zone. Even so, we did call Janeelyn and Annabelle for help. Despite it being her first time, Annabelle was the most excited about it. So yeah, really nervous but I felt a little at ease when a kid in the front row in the plane started playing with me, the chopstick game ( remember him cause he's important).

Arriving at FSY, I was taken aback by the clapping and cheers of joy at what I would then learn from the coordinators. If I were to describe the feeling, it'd be like how Kingson described our church - being welcomed back home- cause they were so excited and so loud too! Not a complaint but shocking. I then collected the 4 cotton T-shirts ( so happy they are not nylon or polyester, my body cannot take another electrostatic), an ID which tells you which group you are and a drawstring bag with a flask, 2 bands, coloured pencils, a participant handbook and 2 pens. All with the youth's theme, quote, logo and scripture verse. Like I'm saying they're going big!!! Especially after I entered a room of youths dancing to THE OFFICIAL FSY PB&J DANCE! And when I say it's like nothing of my first FSY, I MEAN IT! It was loud, crazy BUT FUN! Of course, I felt like I lost some of my hearing with people beside me screaming cause it was part of the dance Anyway, that was just the start of orientation.

We are introduced to a simple and humble college student who loves us and wants us to be safe, named Ty and his co-ordinator Tizzy! They are the ones who usually conduct. They are so cool and SO HYPER! Especially Ty. We are introduced to the theme, safety rules and the consequences of not following and yada yada

BUT!!! WAIT! WANNA KNOW SOMETHING CRAZY?? My company is dark blue and we have 2 counsellors, but something about the counsellors is that: *drum roll*

I HAVE THE SAME COUNSELLOR FROM MY LAST FSY!!!

Her name is Liney!!! I love her and she's soooo cool!!!!♥️✨ And under is my other counsellor, a returned missionary called Isaac! ( it's weird to keep calling your name honestly HAHA)

So yeah, they're cool and we met up with our company and had a little Home Evening and games in the night, plus reflect and review

Company's Name

You're probably wondering why I'm creating a section for something small as a company's name but it will make sense as I write to you more in the next letters. However, I created this to keep track of my feelings about how I felt on that first day about the name. I'll give you a hint. It's in Moses 7:18. At first, I thought the name wasn't much, I felt that unity of being with other youths of the same beliefs before, so, of course, the word 'Zion' didn't stand out to me as much as it does now. So, Zion (one heart, one mind) was our company's name. Our company commitment - the company's goal - followed the theme a little with us wanting to be known as the most service-ful company during the week.

Well by then, you'll just have to wait for the other letters cause I want to keep every memory of the FSY detailed because I believe that these little details build up to my experience of FSY, which made it the most spiritual event I have experienced surrounded by youths- of whom I have no idea then, but love them so dearly now. So till we write again

Sincerely,
Annabelle Yu

My Husband and I

2024-12-22T18:29:00.000+08:00

22 December, 2024

My Husband and I

Dear Elder Yu,

As you know, your Daddy returned and stayed with us at home on 28 November 2024, when I went to the Bangkok Temple. As I told you before, we briefly discussed our marriage. He opened up, and he wanted a divorce on the Sunday I came back from the temple trip, 1 December 2024. I agreed. He will look for a lawyer for the legislation matter. He said he would temporarily stay in the house for about a month and then move out.

Throughout the whole conversation, he blamed me for not being wise enough to be a wife and a mother. He feels that all the love and time he put into this family, turned out to be the children who respected him because of afraid of him. He kept on emphasizing that he was not satisfied with the outcome or results he got from this family because the children were not close to him and he felt he failed his duty as a father. All the efforts he put in by not going to the pub or night entertainment like other contractors did were wasted.

I could understand his point of view that being a mother does not teach both Annabelle and you well, especially since most Chinese parents would teach about virtues such as one should respect the elderly and love the young; a virtuous woman brings her husband good; a kind mother brings up children dutiful to the family; the younger brother should respect the elder brother and the elder brother should be gentle with the younger brother; passing good family traditions of having gathering or dinner when there is a festival; one should run the family diligently and thriftily; one should be learned and practice etiquette; do not be lazy or idle like your mommy in doing the household chores, etc. These are the areas which I lacked.

Your Auntie Agatha commented on all these values years ago if you remember on the dining table. Well, it was indeed your Daddy's good intention when he voiced out to both of you, but it probably in a stern voice so that both of you would remember that because he knows that all these things would be beneficial to you when you stepped into society one day to earn a living.

But, I am speechless when hearing all the excuses and comments from his mouth about the dumb words on how he felt he was not been appreciate his contributions and sacrifice to this family. I thought he was the one who betrayed me in the very first place by not obeying the law of chastity. He did say he was the one who did wrong, but I did not feel the sincerity and repented in his words. He is admitted because of the sack of saying.

He had the testimony of the Church is true and told that one day he will return to church but he has to make things right first. His retirement plan is to stay somewhere in northern Thailand after 6 years and do what he wants to do – open a homestay and a café and live a quiet life there. He did mention is with his now-new girlfriend. He hopes that one day the children and I able to visit him there.

He was expecting that I still could be on good terms with him after all this happened. I told him that sorry as I needed time to go through this time. Please do not expect me to react like nothing happened. I feel he is blaming everything about this family that he felt he is not getting what he expecting from us. My thought is why want to be calculative in your giving, sacrifice to your own family, and expect instant rewards? I feel it is just his excuse to get rid of his guilt and what he had done to this family. I cried many times ever since we had the conversation, I just kept on thinking that I have to trust in the Lord so that I can move on.

Well, he finally found a new place near his job site at Nilai, Negeri Sembilan. He is planning to move out I think next month. I plan to re-home Ally through Auntie Jessie’s help next month as well. I know both of you and Annabelle would be sad, but I do not think I can take care of Ally especially Annabelle next year she will become a teacher in Mecaje, and Mr. Heng asked her to take on tuition which would end at 6.00 pm. So, when she comes back home would be probably around 8.00 pm?

I know I should not talk much about this to you, but I do not want to paint a beautiful picture for you either. It is a burden that is hard to take on and carry, I know. You know what? I started to feel I should be forgiving and let go because this would do me good because all these are the gifts that my Savior gives me.

Love you as always,
Mommy

ZC Ogden 19 Dec 2024

2024-12-19T13:20:00.000+08:00

Elder Yu attended a zone conference in Ogden, Utah, where missionaries gathered to learn, share experiences, and strengthen their testimonies of Jesus Christ.

As I think about his missionary journey, I feel grateful for the opportunities he has to grow spiritually, learn from his leaders, and build friendships with fellow missionaries.

I hope this experience strengthened his faith and reminded him of the joy of serving the Lord. ❤️

18th Week for Christmas Season

2024-12-17T22:01:00.000+08:00

哈喽哈喽，这是余长老。Recently we just had our transfers and I am staying in Ogden with my Golden area. But more than that I got a new companion. Elder Tang got tag out, but Elder Dubreuil is now in the ring ✨️‍♂️DING!

And this week has really been interesting.

Transfers

While transfers were happening, one of the most scariest and frightening thing I've found out was managing and planning everything on the spot is insanely hard. Like just managing and finding the right people to help, as well as keeping in mind the situation of other missionaries and their plans to create my own one is soo chaotic. And it is soo difficult which even got me to feel overwhelmed and scared with all these changes. Getting new companion, being placed as the senior companion and just leading in area. Everything happening all at one's, or what I thought it felt like.

But I learned that things are being unfolded one step at a time. And I found out with more time and a better experience of planning. The task which I faced seemed more and more easier. But I have just gotten a few experiences. So it's still gonna be tuff.

I loved the challenges that the mission gives, it's hard but never impossible. Just as the Lord plans it out for each and everyone of us.

Senior Companion

That is a tuff role, like just leading the area out of the blue is something I think you guys understand too. It's somewhat hard but never impossible. But not having another companion to turn to for guidance it is scary, like feeling somewhat lonely in heart, mind always flooded with so many ideas, flushing and clashing with one another. And it feels like a storm in my thoughts. Not knowing where to start nor when to end. Yet time is going and never waits, which causes the soul to feel inadequate as well as rushing to get one task accomplished even though it's a terrible job too in the plans and ideas.

Learning that the Savior is there to help us connect back to my Father in Heaven has always been comforting me in my life. To know that I can always turn to Him and increasing my companionship with my eternal companion….

The Holy Ghost! Oops did I scare you but with the Holy Ghost, it helps to guide me in the thoughts that comes to me, gives the courage I need to act on it and helps me to accomplish with whatever I could think of. In the Lord's way. Even in His work. We do it his way.

Christ-Mas

We met with a Sister who decorated a tree which looked so beautiful! and she made it so pretty and upon looking at it. It has the whitest and purest leaves with a warm summer coat and radiating a sunset light. Brilliant in colour and accompanied with several white ornaments as well as lines of red beads hanging and coming out as if from the tree and staying on its leaf. It was amazing, being crowded with so many ornaments even with names such as Prince of Peace, Wonderful, Counsellor and etc. It was a tree which represented the Savior being made for this Christmas season. And it's amazing how she expressed her Savior through her artistic creation. The pain, loneliness, hope, peace, Joy and Love the tree Radiates.

And I am grateful to be able to see hat tree that night as it taught me how much the Savior loves us.

It was lovely to see that tree it was awestrucking, breath taking and just peaceful quite and softening to view.

Kate's Baptism

We got a new Bappy too and it's for Kate a person which I rarely teach but is really elect an has been waiting to be baptised for 6 months. She had to go through many interviews and came a long way to enter into the covenant to have the Lord's presence ever more in her life✨️ She had the toughest time to in the past and it was amazing to see how much she has changes as well as the love and radiance that beams out from her after her baptism.

She is soo awesome and it just reminded me of her love and peace that covenants brings into our lives. To have the Lord's presence ever more and ever universal in our lives. And it's awesome!

With our Mission President Tooo

Holy Ghost 3.0

Well this is my 3rd time I think talking about the Holy Ghost and it is Awesome. Something I realised is how things are brought to me by small and simple ways in my life. As we were assigned to give a talk yesterday, me and Elder Dubreuil were prepping with what we would like to share. The many beautiful and wonderful messages and experiences we wanted to give to the members in the ward.

As I pondered I realised I had nothing coming in. As I tried to write on a Wednesday, I had to restart on Friday to write it again and even just lost at how I wanted to convey my message to the members. But as the day passes by, I realised whenever I thought of the talk, a small thought came in. Which I noticed it at first, but didn't really hold on to it. Not yet, till the second and a third time. I started to record it and added it in to my talk. Gradually I saw how the message seems more and more clearer and even during the meeting thoughts still came into my mind.

From scripture verses to quotes and even songs it all slowly came. It was interesting. And on Sunday as the sacrament meet went on. I found that an Elderly member was giving an awesome talk, but it was too long To which we still had a hymn and my companions talk and finally me.

Being placed on the spot with 5 mins left to give a talk. I too felt the guidance on which part of the talks I wanted to share and eventually everything was brought to my Remembrance. Keeping the message short, sweet and simple and end it off there. And I am grateful to listen and heed on the thought and the still small voice throughout the week.

Spiritual Thoughts.

Well recently I am studying the Christmas Plan found in the gospel Library and something that stood out to me was Mary and Elisabeth experiences with the knowledge of their children's identity and purpose. But ultimately in Luke 1: 39-66 it was really awesome to see how Mary supported her cousin Elisabeth during her time of hardship (pregnancy) and I was comforting to see that as Mary received her testimony and conversion to the Lord, she shared it to others, that others may be lifted up in their struggles. To testify of the knowledge of their Father in Heaven and His Beloved Son Jesus Christ.

Luke 22:32:

32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.

And I know that as we so all that we can to share out testimony as well as live to others. They can be strengthened and supported in their hardships. And I say all this things in the sacred name of Jesus Christ Amen.

Best cowboy in the South East Asia

17th Week in the Mission Field

2024-12-10T14:20:00.000+08:00

Yeap I know I know your welcome you got extra stuff to read for your next meal time! DING!✨️Also we changed our P-Day to Tuesday for a temple trip so that is going to be fun✨️

Okay well we can start off

Joyous Day

We had an amazing working for 4 days and it was interesting. Just yesterday we had a member appointment and taught a homie member and it's amazing and fun . I like to see how they are always there to help nd guide us. And he is AMAZING. he mentioned how every day should be a Joyous Day! And it's comforting to learn about that. How whenever things are bad, we can always turn a sad day upside-down and just constantly seek the Savior's help to do so.

Chinese Lesson

Well we are able to teach a few Chinese this week. And we got Kitty, Jin Qi and Hao Mai and they are really awesome! Practicing mandarin and improving it is really crucial and I am starting to see the fruit of my language study even though it's hard cause we are really busy too ☠️⚰️

Transfer Week

Well this week we will be having our transfer and I am placed with my new comp which is Elder DUBREUIL ✨️‍♂️‍♂️He is Awesome and my brother in the mission! ✨️✨️ I love it and I know we can do better together ✨️ Also we had an AMAZING time together up in Logan at my first transfer✨️ and also we had a tonn of fun too for about a week.

And for English work I will be staying in the same area with these amazing members and leaders too So I am really excited. As well as having a car as well✨️ I am really excited and grateful for all teh many blessings and lesson the Lord has taught like FR it's INSANE!

Temple Trip

We just went to the temple today an dit was amazing. Just getting back to the temple after close to 9 weeks it's amazing. I am grateful for the temple we have on earth. And the beauty and strength it brings as we stay and learn in temple. It's really a amazing to have a reminder on how important temple is, and also the power of a temple recommend. The beauty it brings into our lives✨️

Focusing our lives on the temple and seeking to learn more about the Lord is truly a blessing. I love the temple. And living worthily to go to the temple and having a temple recommend is amazing✨️

Ward Christmas Party

It's the most interesting party I've ever seen. Like it reminded me of my home branch only it's like 20 times bigger⚰️ It's so funn and we met with so many members and was well fed too♥️ So that's is AMAZINGGG also had turkey and pies and cookies too It's comforting to be able to see and meet with so many members

Spiritual Thoughts

Well for this short week I was able to learn about the love that the Savior has for us. It is comforting to know that He is there and wants us to be comforted and guided in our lives. I feel comforted and always felt amazing

3 Nephi 12:14-16

14 Verily, verily, I say unto you, I give unto you to be the light of this people. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.

15 Behold, do men light a candle and put it under a bushel? Nay, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light to all that are in the house;

16 Therefore let your light so shine before this people, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

I love this verse because it reminds me so much about the purpose of Christmas, how can we in this season ponder on ways we can glow and radiate the light of Christ. And to be an angel in someone else's life is such an amazing blessing. To help others and guide others to come unto Christ. In all their hardships✨️

We had District Lunch in B-Dubs and this time my stomach was not Beat-Up✨️DING DING DING ✨️

Us at the Ogden temple trip ✨️✨️

My comp deciding which rice cooker to buy

Exchanges with our ZL'S is the funnest thing on ✨️✨️✨️

A Little Christmas Service: Decorating Cookies with the Young Women 7 Dec 2024

2024-12-09T22:42:00.000+08:00

After our lunch at Real Don Restaurant, Annabelle joined the Young Women for a Christmas activity at Sister Joyce’s house to decorate cookies for the upcoming Puchong Branch Christmas party.

It was lovely to know that the young women had an opportunity to gather, spend time together, and prepare something special for the visitors who would be attending the party. Sometimes, the simplest activities bring people closer together. Decorating cookies may seem like an ordinary activity, but when there is a purpose behind it, even something small can become meaningful.

I imagine the girls sitting around the table, choosing colours, decorating their cookies, and sharing ideas with one another. Each cookie would have its own little design, made with care and creativity. There is something enjoyable about making things by hand, especially when we know that someone else will receive and appreciate them.

What makes this activity special is that the cookies were not just for the young women themselves. They were preparing them for the visitors who would come to the branch Christmas party. Through this small act of service, they were helping to create a warm and welcoming experience for others.

This reminds me that service does not always require a lot of time, money, or effort. Sometimes, it is simply about thinking of someone else and doing what we can to make their day a little brighter. A homemade cookie may be a small gift, but the thought and care behind it can make it special.

I also appreciate Sister Joyce for opening her home and providing a place for the young women to come together. Activities like this give them time to build friendships, get to know one another better, and create happy memories outside their usual Church meetings. These shared experiences can help strengthen their sense of belonging and make their time together more meaningful.

I hope Annabelle and the other young women enjoyed the activity and felt the joy that comes from serving others. These opportunities remind us that following Jesus Christ is not only about attending church or learning gospel principles. It is also about putting those teachings into practice through simple acts of kindness.

As we celebrate Christmas, we remember the birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ, and the love He has shown to all of us. Preparing cookies for the branch Christmas party may be a small contribution, but it is one way the young women can share that love with others.

This little Christmas activity reminded that we do not need to do something extraordinary to make a difference. Sometimes, it begins with a group of young women, a table full of cookies, a little creativity, and a willingness to serve.

Perhaps that is one of the sweetest parts of Christmas—not just receiving gifts, but finding joy in giving something of ourselves to others. ❤️

Bangkok Thailand Temple Trip

2024-12-08T17:38:00.000+08:00

December 8, 2024

Bangkok Thailand Temple Trip

Dear Elder Yu,

I know it is a little bit late as I only can sit down and write about my feelings or the things I went through about the temple trip.

Honestly, I think I am not prepared myself enough to enter the House of the Lord. I was keeping myself busy with work, school, home, and not all the important things that I should be preparing myself for going in.

I told your Daddy after you texted me in irregular hours because not a P-Day. His response was, “Is this trip funded by the Church or do you pay for yourself?” I told him that I paid for myself and the air tickets were around RM700.00++. I felt as if he had started calculating what is his gained and lost from me. He even asked me the same questions when fetched me at the airport on the day I returned.

I guess the timing is just nice as on the 28^th of November morning, we went to Mecaje earlier had breakfast with Annabelle, and drove back home to wait for Uncle Felix’s Grab car. On the way to KLIA 1, Uncle Felix shared that he is glad and happy to see both you and Annabelle growing in the church and he sees how both transform into a fine young man and a young woman, especially Annabelle! Haha!

He remembered Annabelle used to be so grumpy and hot-tempered, now she becomes an example to her fellow young women in her class! Uncle Felix said he was enjoying your class while you were still here teaching the Sunday School. Both Auntie Joyce and he are very proud of both of you.

There was joy, and comfort in me. I felt as Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ were there with me and reassured me that I was and I am doing the right in keep on bringing both of you to the Church despite what happened in my marriage all these years.

It indeed felt like home when I stepped into the temple. The prayers I offered the night before were to plead to the Lord to give me all the strength, courage, and wisdom I need to conclude and move forward from my dying marriage. The other so-called homework I did was reading about your first endowment experience email again and again. Haha! I know that it is funny and crazy but I want to feel that long lost feeling again. Your testimony about the temple covenant is humongous! (=v=)

When I changed into the temple clothing and walked into the waiting room, a temple worker asked if I would like to do the proxy initiatory ordinances while I was waiting for the endowment session. I just nodded my head. When I sat on the round cushion stool, I was overwhelmed and my tears filled my eyes. I was so touched when hearing the initiatory prayers or blessings – the washing and anointing that Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ would want us to have. My tears could not stop. I am glad that this trip I was able to do for my great grandmother which on my mother's side.

I have to relearn everything as I have forgotten so much about all the covenants, signs, tokens, marks, etc that I covenanted with the Lord in His House. I relearn about the Creation, the Garden of Eden, the Telestial World, the Terrestrial World, and the Veil.

I love how Eve exercised her agency to invite Adam and explain or counsel him after she had eaten the fruits of the knowledge of good and evil, she still remembered the Lord’s commandments for them to replenish this earth with their posterity.

I wish I was as wise as Eve when dealing with my husband before, but I am not a wise woman, and there is no medicine of regrets and the things that happened could not re-take in our lives.

Well, the most unforgettable moment for me was when I stepped into the Celestial Room, I bowed my head, prayed, and asked what the Lord would want me to do at this moment in my marriage. I heard nothing, and there wasn’t any answer.

I think I should have expected this to happen because He wants me to use my agency to choose for myself. I cried so hard inside the Celestial Room. I was crying like a baby except I wept quietly. Even the temple worker lady came up to me twice and handed me tissues.

I know that there is no more room for me to be in denial anymore about how your Daddy feels about me, there isn’t any love left for me except complaints and blaming. I know that I should not be in denial and have to learn to accept the fact and that is the reason why God did not answer my prayer.

Or actually, as Sister Peggy shared today at the Puchong Branch Conference, “When you feel that God did not answer your prayer, He already did. The feeling you feel inside your heart…” God wants me to learn to accept the outcomes because He loves me so much that He knows what is the best for me, and something awaiting me on my path ahead.

My mind was blank at that moment and my heart pleaded to the Lord to bless me with all the courage, strength, wisdom, and knowledge I need to move on despite I do not know what would happen in front of me.

Honestly, these past weeks some thoughts came into my mind and reminded me how Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ blessed me especially when I exercised my agency to decide to resign and look for a better-paying job last year.

When I had the desire to choose to have a better-paying job to sustain my monthly commitment, the opportunity came through the persons I know who contacted me, and eventually I got a better-paying job. I resigned from Auntie Jessie’s company – Floorphase Projects Sdn Bhd, and joined back my ex-boss’s company – Virtuals Space Sdn Bhd (a.k.a. SUA Interiors). From RM3,500.00 in December 2022 to RM5,500.00 in January 2023 monthly salary.

And, it did not happen once, but twice. I felt stressed out at the company in the Q.S. cum Procurement Manager position, as I feel I am more into project management which can give me more flexibility and not just sitting in the office. And, looking at my age which is growing older, eventually, my current company’s boss – Emily who we knew each other since we were in our twenties called me and asked if there was any project person who could lead her project team. I called her after a few months and asked her if she had found someone for the job. I said I was interested, and you know the rest of the story. I resigned and started as a Project Manager in my current company – Zenith Projects Sdn Bhd in September 2023 with an RM7,000.00 monthly salary and was given a company car for the work.

Of course, the increased salary also comes with more job responsibilities and load, but all these are just like what you said, “I came to see how much desire and eagerness He wants to be with us, that love He wants to be next to us. Like really next to you standing there and wanting to talk to you, asking you how mortality was and if you had fun with life?”

I can feel that the Lord eagerly wants to bless me, the only thing that I need to do is to have a righteous desire and decide what I want, and He will or is always there to support and bless me in whatever I decide. He is waiting there for me to make a decision. It is just like how I can see His hand in my career path.

It is the same I feel the Lord wants me to trust in Him when it is time for me to decide my marriage. I have been ignored too long and I think I have been given multiple opportunities or I missed out on the best timings to patch back the broken vessels. My mind, soul, and strength have been drained out much because of my worries about my husband. He could not become a better man, neither am I to become a better version of myself.

It is time to make a change, change for the better. I know that I need a very big courage to cut this marriage ties because I love him so much. I need to walk out from there. As Elder Jefferey R. Holland taught, “Such dwelling on past lives, including past mistakes, is just not right! It is not the gospel of Jesus Christ… In these cases of marriage and family and wards and apartments and neighborhoods, we can end up destroying so many, many others.” I hope I am not destroying your and Annabelle’s goals or dreams of building your eternal marriage and family.

Well, besides all these things I have gone through during my Bangkok Temple Trip, all is well. I went through 3 endowment sessions and 1 sealing session during this 3 days and 2 nights stay at the temple. I think it is normal to see the temple attendance, sisters are more than the brethren. I never attended a sealing session before except for my sealing with your Daddy, Annabelle, and you while we were in Cebu City Temple.

It was a brand new experience when attending as a proxy to seal for others. It was kind of funny when I was in the sealing room. There were Thai Priesthood holders as the sealers, brethren and sisters from Cambodia, and India, and of course Sister E Chin and me as Malaysians. You imagine that: the sealer sitting in his seat; the Indian priesthood was sitting at his side to help him pronounce the names given, while the Cambodian brethren knelt at the sacred altar to be sealed. It felt funny at first when I heard the names pronounced, but it felt warmth and joy in my heart seeing all of us were doing the Lord’s work here.

On the 29^th November, 2024 Sister E Chin brought me to the Platinum Mall which is a fashion wholesale hub in Bangkok, all the clothing there is considered cheap even compared with here. I did buy a few for myself and am thinking of sharing some with Annabelle.

I could see vendors or hawkers selling street foods along the roadsides while strolling the streets. This brought me so many memories of our family vacation trips many years back – Cebu City, Bali, Saigon, Hatyai, Phattalong, etc. I could not describe my feelings at that very moment. It was sadness. I thought this temple trip should be something different, or spiritual but it turned out to be a lot of mixed feelings in it – my past and present feelings and where I go from here. I feel I should stay for more days to settle my tangled emotions.

As I sit in front of the laptop, and proofread whatever I wrote what‘s in my mind, I know that the length of my stay is nothing compared to what I know – God wants to reveal to me. I am still not completely OK, but I am ready to learn to let go and to be healed. I know that I could not do it alone, but “I can do all things through the Atonement of Jesus Christ”

Elder Yu, please do not worry about me and home. You know that we are in God’s good hands. Know that you are loved! A lot and lots from us, and God too!

Love,
Mommy

The Bangkok Temple. It is considered very convenient because we are using MAS Airline where the flight stopped at the Suvarnabhumi Airport. Using the Airport Rail Link Line, it is only 6 stops reached Makkasan Station, and reached the temple only in walking distance.

Brother Juno and Sister Jully were on their first temple endowment session where Juno was escorted by President Lim and Jully was escorted by her mum, Michelle.

We met returned sisters missionaries here because all the returned brothers and sisters missionaries were having a Conference here in Bangkok. I met Elder Teh as well, the second counselor of the Asia Area Presidency. I think he is attending the return missionaries conference here.

Me in front of Christ. I am really fat and look fat! OMG!

Night view in front of the temple. Of course, the picture got edited to lighten the background of the temple.

Met with Sister Poh Peng and Sister Man Ling. Sister Poh Peng said that initially she planned for a solo temple trip, but it turned out to meet so many familiar faces here! Haha!

Real Don Restaurant USJ21 7 Dec 2024

2024-12-07T23:26:00.000+08:00

December always brings a different feeling. As Christmas approaches, the decorations, festive atmosphere, and little touches of the season remind me to slow down and appreciate the people around me. Today I had a meal with my daughter, Annabelle, at Real Don Restaurant in USJ 21. We had grilled chicken chop, and the restaurant's Christmas decorations added a lovely festive touch to our dining experience.

It was a simple meal, but sometimes the simplest moments become meaningful memories. Sitting down with Annabelle and enjoying our food gave us a little time together away from our usual routines. As a mother, I treasure these moments with my children. They are growing up and building their own lives, and I know that the time we spend together will look different as the years go by.

The Christmas decorations made the restaurant feel more festive. I enjoy seeing how restaurants dress up for the season, bringing a little Christmas cheer into an ordinary day. There is something comforting about this time of year. It reminds me of family, love, giving, and the importance of making time for the people who matter most.

Our grilled chicken chop was the main part of the meal, but what made the outing special to me was having Annabelle there. We did not need a grand celebration or an elaborate plan. Just sharing a meal with my daughter was enough to make the occasion worth remembering.

As a mother, I sometimes think about how quickly children grow up. When they are young, we spend so much time caring for them, preparing their meals, and making decisions for them. Before we realise it, they become young adults with their own thoughts, interests, and plans. I am learning to appreciate the little opportunities we have to connect, even when they come in the form of an ordinary lunch or dinner.

Looking back at this visit, I am reminded that family memories do not always come from holidays, expensive gifts, or special events. Sometimes, they begin with a simple meal, a festive restaurant, and the company of someone we love.

This Christmas season, I am grateful for the opportunity to spend time with Annabelle. My hope is that, even as our lives become busier and our paths continue to develop, we will keep making time for one another and creating these small but precious memories.

After all, the heart of Christmas is not just in the decorations or celebrations. It is in the love we share and the time we give to the people who make our lives meaningful.

Mecaje Graduation Year End Concert 6 Dec 2024

2024-12-06T13:42:00.000+08:00

What a lovely evening to remember! Annabelle was the Master of Ceremonies for her graduation year-end concert, Cultural Night. It was wonderful to see her standing confidently on stage, holding the microphone, guiding the programme, and introducing the different cultural performances.

The evening was filled with music, beautiful costumes, and performances celebrating different cultures and traditions. It was lovely to see everyone coming together to share their talents and make the event special. Annabelle also had the opportunity to interact with the participants and be part of the team that brought the programme together.

Looking at these photos, I feel happy seeing how much Annabelle has grown and how she is learning to take on new responsibilities. Being an MC requires preparation, confidence, and the ability to communicate with an audience. Experiences like this give her opportunities to challenge herself, discover her strengths, and learn things that go beyond the classroom.

Time really flies! Sometimes, we are so caught up in our daily routines that we don't realise how quickly our children are growing up. Then, moments like these remind us to pause, appreciate their progress, and celebrate the little milestones along the way.

So happy to see you taking on this role and creating beautiful memories, Annabelle! ❤️ Keep learning, keep growing, and keep shining in your own way. May you always have the courage to try new things, the confidence to use your talents, and the joy of discovering what you are capable of. So proud of you! ✨

Bangkok, Thailand Temple Trip — A Journey of Faith, Healing, and Trust 28–30 Nov 2024

2024-11-30T22:26:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, we travel to a place not just to see something new, but to find a little peace in our hearts. My trip to the Bangkok Thailand Temple was one of those journeys. I went with many thoughts and emotions, hoping to feel closer to Heavenly Father and find the strength I needed for the challenges in my life.

Before the trip, I had been so occupied with work, studies, and family responsibilities that I wondered whether I had prepared myself spiritually enough to enter the House of the Lord. But the moment I stepped into the temple, I felt a familiar sense of peace. It was as if I had come home.

One of the most touching experiences was performing proxy initiatory ordinances for my great-grandmother on my mother's side. As I listened to the blessings, tears filled my eyes. I felt deeply moved by the thought that Heavenly Father's love extends to all His children, including those who have passed away. It was a beautiful reminder that temple service allows us to reach beyond ourselves and participate in something eternal.

During the three days and two nights, I attended three endowment sessions and one sealing session. I also had the opportunity to meet members and friends from different countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, India, and Malaysia. Although we came from different backgrounds and spoke different languages, we shared the same faith and desire to serve in the Lord's house. There was something very special about feeling united with people I had only just met.

As I participated in the endowment sessions, I found myself reflecting more deeply on the Creation, the Garden of Eden, agency, and the covenants we make with Heavenly Father. I realised that there were things I needed to relearn and understand with a more mature heart. Life has taught me that making choices is not always easy. Sometimes, we make decisions without fully understanding the consequences, and sometimes we look back and wish we had known better. But perhaps part of our mortal journey is learning, growing, and trusting the Lord even when we cannot see the whole picture.

One of the most personal moments came when I entered the Celestial Room. I had brought questions about my marriage and the direction of my life. I prayed and hoped that Heavenly Father would tell me what to do. I wanted a clear answer, something that would remove the uncertainty I had been carrying for so long.

But no direct answer came in the way I expected. Instead, I found myself crying quietly as I sat with my thoughts.

I began to wonder whether I had been waiting for the Lord to make the decision for me when He was asking me to exercise my own agency. Perhaps I needed to take time to listen, reflect, seek His guidance, and find the courage to make the choices that lay before me. Not every answer comes as a clear instruction. Sometimes, faith means moving forward without knowing exactly what will happen next.

I thought about the many times the Lord had guided me in my career. When I needed new opportunities, doors opened, sometimes in ways I had never expected. Looking back, I could see His hand in my life. Remembering those experiences gave me comfort. If He had helped me navigate difficult decisions before, I could trust Him to walk beside me through this chapter too.

Outside the temple, Bangkok offered a different kind of experience. I visited Platinum Mall with Sister E Chin, explored the busy streets, and saw the food stalls filled with local treats. We enjoyed meals together and shared simple moments that made the trip memorable.

Seeing these familiar scenes of travel and family activities brought back memories of our family holidays. There was happiness in those memories, but also a little sadness. I am learning that the heart can hold both emotions at the same time, and that is okay.

This trip did not magically solve my problems or take away all my worries. I returned home with some questions still unanswered. But I also returned with a quieter heart and a renewed desire to trust Heavenly Father.

I am learning that healing is not something that happens overnight. Letting go is not always easy, and moving forward does not mean that the pain has completely disappeared. Sometimes, it simply means being willing to take one small step at a time, even when the road ahead is uncertain.

I may not know exactly what the future holds, but I know I do not have to face it alone. I can continue to pray, seek guidance, exercise my agency, and trust in the Saviour's love and Atonement.

As I look back on my Bangkok temple trip, I am grateful for the sacred experiences, the people I met, the memories I made, and the quiet reminders that Heavenly Father is still with me.

I am not completely healed, and I do not have everything figured out. But I am learning to let go, to have faith, and to move forward with hope.

“I can do all things through the Atonement of Jesus Christ.”

One step at a time, I will keep walking forward. ❤️

17th Week in the Mission Field

2024-11-29T21:25:00.000+08:00

Konichiwa! Well, another week, another P-Day , okay I can explain. I'm not being disobedient cause today is P-Day for us in the Utah Ogden Mission. And also HAPPY THANKSGIVING! ✨️

Well, since today's Thanksgiving, the work here is really chill, and the road is somewhat empty too and that's the first time I've seen it. Alright, let's get to it!

Kitty's Service

Well, as chinese missionaries, we get the opportunity to help chinese non-members and members with any sort of service, and the best art is that we can help any chinese in our area. Which is Brigham City to North Salt Lake ⚰️✨️ We were able to help this former investigator Kitty with moving furniture from Kaysville to North Ogden

Met with these 2 amazing English Speaking missionaries from Kaysville, and they are fun and awesome. We got a ton of furniture in the van and the U-Haul truck, which was tiring. But it was somewhat dangerous, let's just say Bio-hazardous, and we're glad she's moving out of the house. We were able to sit in the U-haul truck with a member who was driving and had a blast✨️

Afterwards we got another set of missionaries to help unload things in North Ogden and gradually we finished the job, ate together as Kitty provided us lunch and had a lesson with her, making her a new friend to teach again!

Leading the Area

Well, this week, I also got to have more opportunities to lead the area and just went around meeting with members as well as non-member, and it's been super duper fun. Just at the start of last week, we were able to contact this guy who has an E-bike and seemed like he's busy. We still contacted him anyways and learned that he has been having a rough time and was glad that we met and shared a simple message with him. He cried and just seeing people cry makes my eyes watery and I have more compassion for them. It's an amazing experience and lesson.

More than that I also got to learn about accepting changes and applying it in my life. And to be honest I felt like I just barely started learning in the mission and I am already like 3 or 4 months out. It's scary and I do beat myself up about it. But reflecting back, I've seen my growth and change in my life and I am eternally grateful for all of it. And I want to keep them always in my memory and learn from them. Not wasting each experience I've gained to learn the same lesson again. I am grateful for the Savior's Atonement and His love for all of us FR.

I felt like I am more charitable to others and especially to myself as well. Loving myself even more and taking great care of my health. Losing myself in this great work, at the same time to care and maintain an optimum condition to continue losing myself in the field.

DAA Chinese Branch

Well I am gradually meeting and understanding the chinese branch even more. It feels like home right now. Just a sense of belonging and a comfort to just speak the language I have been training and improving on. I love my assigned branch!! Just last week we had a Primary Presentation during that sacrament meeting and it was AMAZING!! not only that but I got to meet Ethan Lowder's younger brother. Don't worry I forgotten the name but he is amazing! Heard that he is currently working as a MTC teacher. So Brother Huang and Sister Huggins tell him I said have fun and good luck with your boss !!

It was fun meeting with him and just learning he came back from his mission not long ago. I find that even though the chinese branch is really small, it's close and feels like home. Reminds me of my home branch. Hopefully I can help strengthen that branch and help in the Lord's work.

Trunky

Chat I'm trunky, to be honest I am amazed how fast I missed home and also maintaining the desire to keep serving the Lord is really a hard thing to do. Where I already have days when I wished I could just SACK and also there are days I felt like I'm just not doing the work. Wasting this precious time while on my mission, It;s tough and also worrying about my own companionship like am I doing too much?, too less?, not working?, what does my comp think of me?, am I helping him at all?' Am I a burden? and etc. Mental struggle is real on the mission, and I just wish I could learn faster and remember it clearer... Yet that's not what I am capable of, I am not the Savior, but He has suffered all that we could possibly suffer in this life. That we may be perfected like He is eventually and through Him are we made perfect. And that's a lesson I have learned trying to remember each time I get a mental breakdown.

I came to learn that emotions are normal, trunky is normal. But I choose to continue serving the Lord, I just want to forget myself and do His work, whether its 100%, or 1% of energy left. I do want to consecrate all that I have to the Lord. I think it's gonna be insanely hard but there are people the Lord wants us to bless, I want to bless others, to bring that joy in their lives. I love my mission even though I do feel like dying, the Savior's Redeeming and Enabling power is so AMAZING!!!

Spiritual Thoughts

In 3 Nephi 17, it talks about toward the end of the Savior's first appearance to the Nephites in Bountiful. He finished His teachings to this people and was about to return to Heavenly Father. But He noticed that everyone needed comfort, peace and assurance. Even when no one told him about it, He invited all to Come Unto Him, at first it was to attain a testimony that He is the Christ but now its to let them know that He is our Savior. He began healing all the sick, afflicted and more. Gradually one person at a time Healed them and comforted them in their burdens and hardships. After that Angels came down and ministered to all of them, assuring them that it's gonna be A'OKAY. And He even offered a prayer for all of them as well as instituted the sacrament for them too.

我知道耶稣基督很疼爱每一个天父的儿女，他想要我们回到他生变。能一起集合到天父的家，永远的在他旁边。耶稣为我们而受苦和经验到死亡为了辅助我们个人的行程会到天父的大家庭。天父，耶稣基督和圣灵非常爱我们。我知道他们春在。这些我说奉耶稣基督的名，阿门。

THE TURKEYYY BOWLLLL! on snow tooo!!

Had to get a flat tire fix with a homie members help

Got some food along the way

Anyways that's all see you next P-Day!!

A Simple Invitation, A Meaningful Moment 24 Nov 2024

2024-11-25T23:54:00.000+08:00

One of the things that made me happy recently was learning that Annabelle had invited her two friends, Kingson and Jesslyn, to attend the Kuala Lumpur District Conference, where she also gave a talk.

Looking at these photos, I love seeing the three of them sitting together, smiling and enjoying the moment. As a mother, it means a lot to see Annabelle sharing something important to her with her friends. It takes a little courage to extend an invitation, and I am glad she took that step.

I don’t know what Kingson and Jesslyn felt or learned that day, but I hope they felt welcomed and enjoyed the experience. Sometimes, sharing the gospel doesn’t have to be complicated. It can begin with a simple invitation from a friend.

Perhaps this is one small way the Lord works through us—to bring people together, help them feel His love, and open doors we may not even realise are there. ❤️

I Know Not

2024-11-24T21:13:00.000+08:00

November 23, 2024

I Know Not

Dear Elder Yu,

“3 And my father also was killed by them, and I even remain alone to write the sad tale of the destruction of my people. But behold, they are gone, and I fulfil the commandment of my father. And whether they will slay me, I know not.

4 Therefore I will write and hide up the records in the earth; and whither I go it mattereth not.

5 Behold, my father hath made this record, and he hath written the intent thereof. And behold, I would write it also if I had room upon the plates, but I have not; and ore I have none, for I am alone. My father hath been slain in battle, and all my kinsfolk, and I have not friends nor whither to go; and how long the Lord will suffer that I may live I know not.”

Moroni 8: 3-5

Another thing that I learned from Moroni is that his unconditional faith was similar to his dad, Mormon. Moroni shows another beautiful example of how we can move forward with faith.

We do not need to know everything. We do not need to know how everything will play out as long as we know whose side we are on and who we have given our heart, time, energy, and devotion. If we have given that to the Lord, there are going to be a lot of things that we do not know. And in Moroni’s case, he did not know if he was going to survive or whether they were going to slay him. He says “I know not.”

Therefore because I don't know what's in my future. "Therefore I will write and hide up the records in the earth; and whither I go it mattereth not." What an amazing perspective for our world today. And, remember, Moroni is not writing to people in his day. He's not having a conversation with anyone in his time. He is speaking directly to us through the corridor of prophetic time, through this capacity of vision to be able to see our day and to speak directly to us.

He says, "Behold, my father hath made this record, and he hath written the intent thereof. And behold, I would write it also if I had room upon the plates, but I have not; and ore I have none, for I am alone." So, his point is, that he doesn't have a lot of space left. He doesn't have a lot of war. His father's been slain in battle, and all of his kinsfolk. He doesn't have friends or where to go. Anyone he meets is likely to try to kill him, so he needs to stay isolated "How long the Lord will suffer that I may live? I know not."

Moroni is making this so clear. I have a ton of questions, but I'm not going to allow those questions to determine my life's direction. I'm going to stay a disciple of Christ. I'm going to move forward on that covenant path in the face of intense adversity and extreme ambiguity. "I don't know what's going to happen, but I do know where I stand."

This is amazing when he is describing what he now knows compared to what he didn't know. And, so, it is an opportunity for us to seriously reflect and take this personally and say,

Why would Moroni have He's written that to us?

If the Lord showed him our day, why is he writing that? And, what can I do?

What is the therefore what that I can apply in my own life moving forward?

I do not know why I keep on listening and reading across something related to Trust in the Lord and Have Faith in the Lord. Especially last week Come, Follow Me, we read about Ether 1 – 5. And, it seems as if everywhere I go, there are messages about that coming into my mind.

I hope you are doing well in your mission. I love how Sister Amy Shaw mentioned your infectious smile and positive attitude, that you have a great spirit in you! I am so grateful and proud to be your mom!

Love,
Mommy

A Message from Sister Amy That Brought Tears to My Eyes ❤️

2024-11-23T22:36:00.000+08:00

Sometimes, the simplest things can touch our hearts in ways we never expect.

I received a message on Messenger from Sister Amy Shaw, one of the ward missionaries who has been serving alongside my son, Elder Yu. She sent me some photos of my son with another elder, including pictures of them standing beside a bicycle and enjoying some snacks.

At first, I was simply happy to see his face. As a mother, I always love receiving photos of my children, especially when they are far away from home. I looked at his smiling face, feeling grateful for this little glimpse of his life that I would otherwise not get to see.

But then I started reading Sister Amy’s message.

She told me that she and her husband, Alan, felt blessed to know my son. She described him as an amazing elder who works hard and has a great spirit about him. She shared that the people in their ward love him. She even compared him and another elder to the stripling warriors in the Book of Mormon because of their faith. She also mentioned his infectious smile and positive attitude.

By the time I finished reading her message, tears were already in my eyes.

I don't think Sister Amy realised how much those words meant to me. She was probably just sharing her appreciation for the missionaries, but to me, it felt like receiving a warm hug from someone who was there with my son when I could not be.

As his mother, I naturally wonder how he is doing. Is he happy? Is he adjusting well? Is he getting along with the people he serves? Is he feeling the Lord's love and finding joy in his mission? I cannot see his everyday life, and I don't always know what he experiences or what challenges he might be facing.

So when someone takes the time to tell me that he is doing well, that he is loved, and that his presence makes a difference, it touches a very tender place in my heart.

It wasn't just the photos that made me cry. It was knowing that someone, far away from our family, had come to know my son, appreciate him, and see the good in him.

Looking at the pictures, I found myself smiling through my tears. There he was, standing beside his missionary companion, looking happy and comfortable. They were just ordinary moments, but they suddenly felt so precious to me. I wished I could give him a hug, tell him how proud I am of him, and remind him that his family is thinking of him and praying for him.

Then I felt grateful for Sister Amy and her husband. They may not realise how much their kindness means to a missionary's mother. Their message reminded me that even though I cannot be there with my son, Heavenly Father has placed good people around him. People who care, encourage him, and help make his mission feel a little more like home.

I have always known that sending a child out into the world means learning to let go little by little. But when our children leave home to serve the Lord, there is another layer of emotion. We want them to grow, to become independent, and to develop their own faith, yet a part of us will always worry and hope they are being cared for.

This message reminded me that I don't have to see everything to know that the Lord is mindful of him. Sometimes, He lets us see just enough to reassure our hearts.

I am so thankful that Sister Amy took the time to send these photos and write such thoughtful words. She probably thought it was a small gesture, but it meant so much more to me than she could imagine.

I will treasure her message for a long time—not because someone praised my son, but because it reminded me that he is making connections, serving with faith, and touching the lives of people around him.

That night, my tears were tears of gratitude. Gratitude for the people who love my son, for the opportunity he has to serve, and for a Heavenly Father who knows that sometimes a mother simply needs a little reassurance.

Thank you, Sister Amy and Brother Alan, for loving my son and for taking a moment to let me know how he is doing. You have no idea how much comfort your message brought to my heart.

Sometimes, a mother doesn't need a long phone call or a big update. Sometimes, all it takes is a few photos and a kind message from someone who says, in their own way, “Your son is doing well. We love him, and we're grateful to know him.”

And that day, those simple words were enough to make this mother's heart overflow. ❤️

16th Week in the Mission Field

2024-11-19T22:20:00.000+08:00

This week dun been Fun slightly depressing but Amazing

No photos for this week I think hold up let me checking. Sadly I do t have any Anyways let's get started.

Gratitude

Well this week has been a really harsh week, for my mind especially. Had a struggle towards how I can always do better. That I felt like I could use 24 hours more effectively instead of just relaxing. But with that mindset and motive I realised just how exhausted I can be and it's CRAZYY. However as I was conveying this to my trainer he mentioned to remember that God doesn't only trust in you. And something that we learned during zone conference is that

This is not your work. It's the Lord's work.

We work together as one to bring all to come unto Christ✨️ I love that idea ✨️

Which I then realised why we needed the Atonement, to seek the Lord's help to improve. Not to help others to come unto Christ but ourselves as well. ✨️ It's comforting to remember that❤️

Also how much I've improved. It's amazing

Discipleship of Jesus Christ

During one of the member rides we had after finishing a chinese lesson. We were able to chat with Brother Shaw about the process of discipleship. And he mentioned about the parable of the workers. How different workers can come and work at different time and all workers receive the same amount of payment. Despite the difference between each duration of the work the servants gave. And it's interesting how when we first heard it it doesn't seem fair at all. However, Brother Shaw mentioned how we are all aiming for the same reward to attain eternal life. And shouldn't we all help one another to attain that reward? No matter how long we are in the work, don't we want to share that reward with everyone? I loved that parable and looking things the way God sees things it's amazing✨️✨️

So let's all work together as one, to bring all to Come and help in His work no matter when and how long they've been in this great work.

Prayer

This week I had the opportunity to teach about prayer in Gospel Principle class and it's amazing to see just how mush I still can improve in my prayer and relationship with my father in Heaven❤️ I loved it

I was able to learn how I can come ever more closer to my Father and how His live can truly be felt as we pray like the hymes a child's prayer it's soo divine when I hear it's verses and meaning.

Heavenly Father, are you really there?‍♂️❔️❓️

And do you hear and answer ev’ry child’s prayer?

Some say that heaven is far away,

But I feel it close around me as I pray.❤️

Heavenly Father, I remember now

Something that Jesus told disciples long ago:

“Suffer the children to come to me.”‍♂️‍♀️

Father, in prayer I’m coming now to thee.

Pray, he is there;

Speak, he is list’ning.

You are his child;

His love now surrounds you.❤️❤️

He hears your prayer;

He loves the children.❤️

Of such is the kingdom, the kingdom of heav’n.‍‍✨️

Likewise I know that He truly is there, and I have come to realise prayer isn't an incantation or something we do as a routine for a successful life as disciple of Jesus Christ. It's to strengthen your relationship with our Heavenly Father. To learn how to speak with him in a ever more personal ❤️ and heartfelt way❤️✨️I know He loves us and I know that words can come not only through our mouth and mind, but even in our heart and soul✨️

Prayer truly is a divine gift, a way he shows us hesed, we are his segullah and we are always and forever cherished

I love this divine power. Another way we can come closer to our Father through the Savior's help even though we aren't able to go to the temple as often as we liked too.

Spiritual Thought

The Lord's peace️‍✨️John 14:27

27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

A talk given from Elder Neil L Anderson in his recent talk he said:

"Yet that is precisely the joy the Savior offers. His joy is constant, assuring us that our ‘afflictions shall be but a small moment’ [Doctrine and Covenants 121:7] and be consecrated to our gain.

Brothers and sisters, the peace you seek may not come as quickly as you desire, but I promise you that as you trust in the Lord, His peace will come.

May we nurture our precious faith, pressing forward with a perfect brightness of hope. I testify that our hope is our Savior, Jesus Christ. Through Him, all our righteous dreams will be realized. He is the God of hope—the triumph of hope. He lives and He loves you. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen."

I know that in times of turmoil, that's the hope that the Savior provides us. The peace of our spirit and love. I know this to be true and I say all this things in the sacred name of Jesus Christ Amen.

Prophet Mormon & Willingness to Forgive

2024-11-17T20:59:00.000+08:00

November 17, 2024

Prophet Mormon & Willingness to Forgive

Dear Elder Yu,

An insight that I learned from the Scripture Central YouTube Channel last few weeks when studying Mormon Chapter 7 is the willingness to forgive. It is indeed very hard for me to do currently, you know what I mean.

Chapter 7 is the final chapter written by Mormon, the chief abridger. It is fascinating to note that he could have talked about in his last chapter, that he chooses to address the Latter-day descendants of the Lamanites.

There is something beautifully Christ-like about what is going on here.

If I consider what would I say to a group of people who are descended from an entire population that destroyed my family, my nation, and my people, and killed everybody? I am not sure if I would be prone to speak kindly to that group. For instance, what my husband has done to me?

But, we see this beautiful Christ-like principle of forgiveness, of not holding grudges. This charity, this pure love of Christ that flows through Mormon, and we see it in his words. Right out of the first verse in chapter seven, he says,

1 And now, behold, I would speak somewhat unto the remnant of this people who are spared, if it so be that God may give unto them my words, that they may know of the things of their fathers; yea, I speak unto you, ye remnant of the house of Israel; and these are the words which I speak:

2 Know ye that ye are of the house of Israel.

3 Know ye that ye must come unto repentance, or ye cannot be saved.

4 Know ye that ye must lay down your weapons of war, and delight no more in the shedding of blood, and take them not again, save it be that God shall command you.

5 Know ye that ye must come to the knowledge of your fathers, and repent of all your sins and iniquities, and believe in Jesus Christ, that he is the Son of God, and that he was slain by the Jews, and by the power of the Father he hath risen again, whereby he hath gained the victory over the grave; and also in him is the sting of death swallowed up.

6 And he bringeth to pass the resurrection of the dead, whereby man must be raised to stand before his judgment-seat.

7 And he hath brought to pass the redemption of the world, whereby he that is found guiltless before him at the judgment day hath it given unto him to dwell in the presence of God in his kingdom, to sing ceaseless praises with the choirs above, unto the Father, and unto the Son, and unto the Holy Ghost, which are one God, in a state of happiness which hath no end.

8 Therefore repent, and be baptized in the name of Jesus, and lay hold upon the gospel of Christ, which shall be set before you, not only in this record but also in the record which shall come unto the Gentiles from the Jews, which record shall come from the Gentiles unto you.

9 For behold, this is written for the intent that ye may believe that; and if ye believe that ye will believe this also; and if ye believe this ye will know concerning your fathers, and also the marvelous works which were wrought by the power of God among them.

10 And ye will also know that ye are a remnant of the seed of Jacob; therefore ye are numbered among the people of the first covenant; and if it so be that ye believe in Christ, and are baptized, first with water, then with fire and with the Holy Ghost, following the example of our Savior, according to that which he hath commanded us, it shall be well with you in the day of judgment. Amen.

Whenever it was written, Mormon was surrounded by that group of people, those Lamanites, who wanted nothing more than to destroy the Nephites and him. He watched the entire destruction of not just his people, but his own family. His son is the only one that remains with the records.

While he was going to go on and give his final teachings, his final exhortations to this group of people who are descendants of this group of Lamanites. So, how do we learn from that? What do we apply in our own life, in our own situation today?

There are a million answers to that question. But, one consideration is to remember that as long as we choose to hold on to past wrongs, to grudges, to past offenses that have been committed against me, the more I hold on to those, the less I am capable of embracing the Savior's infinite power, His goodness, His grace, His healing.

And, what's more, if I am striving to become more like Christ, that means I need to work on developing his Christ-like attributes in my own life. One of the attributes of the Savior, one of the attributes of God, is this willingness to forgive – this willingness to not hold me hostage to my past wrongs and my mistakes.

So, whenever I am offended whenever another person hurts me, I can choose. I feel justified in holding on to that until justice has been served unto my husband. But it does not allow me to embrace and feel the loving embrace of the Savior to the same degree as when I drop that burden at His feet and let Him carry it. Let Him take those wrongs that were committed against me.

Mormon models beautifully here: possibly filling the pains of the war in his physical body that had been inflicted by these Lamanites, but not defining his life or his relationship with God or his relationship even with his enemies by those hurts or by those wounds that have been inflicted upon him. He was thinking celestial as President Nelson counseled. He was looking to the long term.

There is a beautiful pattern for us: If we have been hurt, we need the infinite healing power of the Savior Jesus Christ. We need Him to apply His atoning blood on our behalf. His infinite atonement is not just for sinners, not just for people who do wrong things, which happens to be all of us, but it is also for those who have been hurt, who have been afflicted with abuse or with any wrongdoing from other people that have caused pain or spiritual or physical injury.

We need the Savior Jesus Christ in His infinite atonement to heal us. We need to feel safe in His loving, healing embrace, which means we need to have Him help us drop those hurts, drop those offenses, and drop the burdens at His feet to be then able to move forward. I indeed need the Savior’s help to lift my hatred, to heal my wounded soul so that my mind and soul can be free from all this bondage.

Finally, of all the messages Mormon could have shared, of all the mysteries he could have revealed, that's what he chose to sign off within his last chapter. It is extremely significant for us today to keep going back to the basics and asking ourselves:

What is life really about? Why am I really here? Is it just to have a few thrills, a few experiences, make money, work like crazy to be able to support some hobbies, take some trips and buy some things, and work my way through life, trying to find some pleasures here or there?

Or am I here because it truly is an opportunity to strive to become more like God and to think celestial as President Nelson would invite and to see God and see people as eternal relationship potentials rather than just passing interactions or fleeting requests from heaven?

But, to build these deep identity-defining connections with God through our covenants with Him and through our faith in His only Begotten Son, to the point where we let go of more of the things that this world has to offer us, and we embrace more of Him and His divine power and His promises and His covenant connections that He offers us.

I love Mormon. He did such an amazing job of teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in such a way that most people do not even see him. They do not recognize Mormon because he is become transparent. He becomes a window to the Savior's power, glory, and love; Mormon tells everybody else's story without drawing attention to himself. I love that attribute, and I want to be more like that.

Can I just say we owe Mormon a huge debt of gratitude for choosing to live his life in such a way that the Lord could use him as an instrument to abridge this incredible book that is given to us today that has changed so many lives and brought so many people to Jesus Christ?

Mormon did all of that in the worst possible environment in the history of the Nephites. It was the worst. From the time he was a young child until 73 years old at that final battle, and who knows how many years beyond, he chose to stay a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ and to do the work of the Lord, and you and I now get to benefit from him.

We owe him a serious debt of gratitude for that, and we can now pass it on to people in our lives, in our circle of influence, and people in the future who can benefit from our choosing to stay strong in the faith of Jesus Christ and His gospel today in our life.

Before this, I always wondered why the book was named, “The Book of Mormon” because the entire book is about other prophets’ stories and Mormon’s stories just formed a very small percentage of the book. No doubt that he was the one who abridged all the brass plates and records.

Sometimes I would think that Mormon has so many similarities with Joseph Smith. They were chosen by God to do the same work: one abridged while another translated the records. They did the work in a very challenging living environment.

Imagine that to keep the sacred brass plates and records is no joke! How heavy it is? And now we are talking about abridged records, which means you have to flip through the heavy record plates to summarize it to a shorter filled with essential things which the Lord what you to write.

I am not comparing Joseph Smith and Mormon, but it seems as if Mormon’s work is much more harder or loaded to bear. Of course, God was always with Mormon when he was doing this great work, for this is the Lord’s work. With that, I think there is a reason why the scripture is named after his name – The Book of Mormon.

Love,
Mommy

Giving Others Permission

2024-11-16T19:49:00.000+08:00

November 16, 2024

Giving Others Permission

Dear Elder Yu,

My instructor surprised me every week by sharing something that gave me some thought. He was impressed that he should share his thoughts with us, the BYU-Idaho class family.

My instructor was talking to his mother a while ago, and he was asking her about a family they are close to who some time ago, had distanced themselves from the Gospel. He asked if his mom had ever heard why that had happened.

His mother said, that there had been some instances in which their family was treated poorly by members of their ward and had responded to that by leaving the Church entirely. At that point, my instructor looked at his mother, smiled, and said, “Well we have seen worse, haven’t we?”. His mother knowingly smiled back and said, “Yes, we have.”

My instructor told us that his family had seen some noteworthy transgressions by local leadership in their stake while I was growing up. But he and others in his family did not have their testimonies shaken by them. The reason for that is because as for him, he is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

He shared with us his testimony that he had strong communication with Heavenly Father (through the Holy Ghost) who has told me that this is the right path. It would be illogical for him to permit another flawed mortal human to stand between him and that divine communication.

In contrast, his mother then told him about a recent experience with another friend close to the family. This good woman had recently been through a rather painful divorce. A short time after the divorce was finalized, she learned that a decision was made within the Church in favor of her ex-husband.

This was a decision that she did not agree with and one which had to have been made by a Church leader. She was devastated. She reports that when Sunday morning came around, she was so upset that she wanted very badly to just stay home.

But then she realized that she did not give permission to the Church leadership to stand between her and the very clear message from God that she needed to be a part of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She went that Sunday and has been every week since.

My instructor has thought up a list (certainly not comprehensive) of flawed, mortal human beings that he personally will not give permission to stand between him and the testimony that has resulted from communication with loving Heavenly Father:

Members of his ward who are kind and loving.
Members of his ward who are cruel and hypocritical.
People who make an industry out of writings being critical of the Gospel
Close friends who do and also those who do not share the Faith.
Church leadership who advocate for political views that happen to agree with.
Church leadership who advocate for political views that happen to not agree with.
Figures from Mormon History who he considers heroes.
Figures from Mormon History who he felt were inspired by God but who also made decisions that he did not understand and who may have made mistakes.
Close members of his family (Note: He was blessed to be surrounded by family who both support and strengthen his faith, but he understands that many do not have such a situation).

What I learned from my instructor’s testimony is that, if we do not allow others to stand in the way of our testimonies, our communications with God will be stronger and more pure.

My instructor shared that the most devastating piece of news in Church history also included what he considered to be the most hopeful phrases he had ever heard:

Willard Richards had to send a letter to Nauvoo with the horrible news that Joseph and Hyrum Smith had been martyred at Carthage. And yet the letter ended with the following 7 words: “Be still, and know that God reigns.”

I think this is the thing that God wants me to learn now – trust in Him.

Love,
Mommy