Well here I am 2 hours from the time I will leave the CCM forever! There are definitely a lot of mixed feelings I am experiencing right now. Last night I could not sleep at all because too many things were going through my mind. A HUGE change is about to occur. It´s difficult not knowing just exactly what to expect, but I know that the strength of the Lord will be with me, and I am SO grateful for the past 6 weeks and the amount of preparation I have had from great teachers. It is going to be a big adjustment, but I am ready! This past week has been a lot of packing, meetings, and trying to retain as much information as possible. I still have so much to learn, but isn´t that what this whole experience is about? Continually finding ways to big others to Christ. During our meetings, we were taught that there are several different ways to find people, and we are expected to use every resource we can. I learned that members are a crucial part of missionary work and without them it is nearly impossible. A member should be present at every lesson possible, and should take part in friend shipping the investigator so they feel comfortable and have a friend once the missionaries have gone. At the devotional on Tuesday, I learned that as a missionary it is my responsibility to get to know every member individually, learn to identify their needs, and visit them often. The relationship I have with members with open doors to receiving referrals and help with identifying needs of investigators.
I have become very close to my companion during my time here, and I am sad that I have to leave her. Just when we had finally begun teaching in perfect unity and were beginning to understand how to be missionaries, we have to be separated. Its going to be difficult completely starting over. I do not know who my next companion will be, but I do understand the importance of showing her love, being patient, communication, and watching her example closely. I know God has a plan for me and I am so grateful for the relationship I have built with him while I have been here. He knows me personally, my thoughts, intentions, and every desire. I can turn to him always and he will listen. I know my Savior lives and understands every heartache, pain, and sorrow I ever have or will experienced. I know that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. He was called to restore the Gospel and did translate The Book of Mormon by the power of God. I know that every single question I have can be answered within the pages of The Book of Mormon. I know this gospel is the only way for people to return to live with God, Jesus Christ, and their families forever, and I am so excited to share this message with them.
Thank you for all of your support and love. I will have much to tell you about next week!
Con mucho amor,
Hermana Parkin
p.s. This picture is my district with the Branch presidency. President Rodriguez brought his son this Sunday. His name is Liam and he is adorable