I'm in shock that I'm leaving Ufa. I was told yesterday
that I was leaving today, and it's crazy. Because we watched conference
yesterday at the church and the English started slightly later than the
Russian, I literally didn't get any time to say goodbye to anyone. What a
crazy day. Everything is packed and ready to go, and I haven't quite
gotten used to the idea. Especially because we moved apartments less
than a week ago....
This week was great, and our investigator is set to
be baptized this weekend. It's too bad that I'm leaving and won't be
here for the baptism, but I'm so glad that I had the opportunity to
teach her and get to know her.
Like I said, this week we moved apartments, and our
new apartment it beautiful. It's very modern (more modern than a
traditional Russian apartment anyway) and kind of craftsman style. It's
very big and spacious. I love it! Lots of daylight and we have a
wonderful building. Kind of a shame that I won't be here, but it was
nice to at least feel at home for a week!
Conference was great. In between the Saturday
sessions, we did an American pancake breakfast for the ward members. It
was so fun. I think my favorite talks were Lawrence Corbridge's on
Joseph Smith and also L. Tom Perry's on Obedience. Of course Gary E.
Stevenson's was really great, but I felt a little left out since I
didn't see the Olympics this year.
Conference is great, and it's especially great being
a missionary and watching conference. I only have one more conference
left on my mission-- how weird! I'm feeling a little old especially
since this will now be my third time training.....crazy! Time flies when
you're having fun. :)
I feel really at peace about leaving Ufa. I've done
all that I can in my area, and I really feel that I did all I could to
leave my area "stronger than [I] found it" (PMG 137). I've worked super
hard here, and it's been nice to see the longer term results just nine
months later. I'm so grateful that I've had the opportunity to serve
here among these people. The members here are incredible examples of
perseverance. They're all so strong here, and it's really
inspirational.
Well, I love Russia. I'm so glad to have been called
here. I've learned so much from all the people and all the experiences
that I've had. Being a missionary is dang hard, but it's so worth it.
I've had the most spiritual experiences on my mission, and I really feel
that I've been changed in so many ways. It's hard to explain all the
changes, hardships, challenges, and struggles that I've experienced so
far, but I'm so excited to continue on this adventure in a different
city. Whitewashing is going to be so fun!
I know the Lord knows I can handle this but please keep me in your prayers this week a little more than usual. :)
I love you all!!!!!!!
Love,
Sister Brown
2 Nephi 5:10-11
"And we did observe to keep the judgments, and the statutes, and the commandments of the Lord in all things.... and the Lord was with us"
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