Monday, September 22, 2014

Keely Hits Orlando

This morning I got the first of 5 possible calls that a family get from their missionary. Keely had left the MTC and was waiting at the SLC airport to depart to Orlando FL. Full time missionaries are only allowed to make calls home on Christmas and Mother's Day. And they are allowed to call home as they leave for their mission area. This was a good day.
Keely sounded great. There was fear and apprehension in her voice. But more than that, there was contentment, excitement, resolve, power and joy. Her fear was one I had not expected. She had such a great companion at the MTC in Sister Lewis that she was worried that she will never have one that she bonds with as well. She said that people asked them if they had been friends before because they were so close. I pray she will have other companions that will feel as comfortable and as familiar.
Her apprehension was of the unknown and if she's ready, She has prepared most of her life for this opportunity. I have no doubt in her faith or her ability. She and her message will be rejected. Doors will be slammed, dogs let loose, slurs made. There will be days that she will wonder what she got herself into or if it's worth it. And I know there will be evenings that she will be on her knees praying for strength and comfort. And because of those moments, her testimony will grow and she will be given all she needs to do it again tomorrow.
Her excitement is about all that lies in front of her. She looks forward to new companions, new places and teaching opportunities. She wants to share with others the thing that has made our lives feel happier and richer, the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Her power comes from her faith, her intelligence and her willingness to serve. She has always been blessed for her unwavering obedience to the Lord's commandments. She has knowledge of the scriptures and an understanding of the Great Plan of Happiness. She has the Holy Ghost as her constant companion through it all to provide strength and comfort.
We talked about life here at home. I wanted the time to tick slowly before it was time for her to go. But all too soon came the goodbyes and the good lucks and I love yous. I look forward to Christmas.

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