October 7, 2019

“Never come home from your mission!” Hello all (: That quote in my email title is from the one and only Elder Holland. At first I thought to obey his counsel I would need to stow away in one of the outbound sisters suitcases haha but I found out that he means it in a different way. Never forget your mission. Never stop doing those things that bring you closer to the Savior. Never stop serving Him and inviting others to come to Him. Never think that you are "done." You are called as a disciple of Christ forever. FOREVER!!! So even though I'll be getting off the plane on October 11th, I will never come home from my mission! You can take the missionary out of Nauvoo but you can never take Nauvoo out of the missionary (; Anyways, I finished the other half of the Woodruff family's historical fiction this week! (: the first half is Phebe sending a letter to her missionary husband and the second half is Wilford receiving it in England......

 July 18, 1840 Nauvoo, Illinois Phebe Woodruff walks down the east side of main street, towards a stone house. She's holding a letter tightly in her hands. Just hours ago, with her best penmsnship she wrote to her beloved husband to tell him the things closest to her heart. The post office, which operates out of Sidney Rigdons kitchen, seems quiet. Phebe knocks on the front door and George Robinson answers. George is Sidney's son in law and the newly appointed post master in Nauvoo. He welcomes her with a soft smile and notices the paper she has in her hands. "Come in." He doesn't ask any questions about the letter or even ask how her week has been, but he watches her with concern in his eyes. Im sure he knows. Word travels fast in Nauvoo, especially news of loss. Just the day before, Phebe had said goodbye to her little 2 year old daughter, Sarah Emma. Sarah Emma was such a bright, happy girl, it was so hard to see her as ill as she was. It was even harder for Phebe to lay her to rest, knowing she would never hold her again in this life. And now, Phebe has to inform her husband, who is hundreds of miles away, that their daughter is gone. I wish I could tell him face to face, I wish it was not by letter. George leaves the room, probably getting the sealing wax. Phebe stands by the sorting box and opens her carefully folded paper to read over her words about Sarah's passing one more time. "Yesterday I was called to witness the departure of our little Sarah Emma from this world- yes she is gone- the relentless hand of death has snatched her from my embrace. When looking on her I have often thought how I should feel to part with her. I thought I could not live without her especially in the absence of my companion-" Phebe's vision blurs as tears fill her eyes. She takes a deep breath, uses a handkerchief and continues reading. "but she is gone, the Lord has taken her to himself for some wise purpose." Phebe feels the gloom of this news settle over her, imagining how it will affect her beloved. Even though she has walked all the way to the post office and is now standing in front of the box, she is still unsure how to finish the letter. Words fail to describe the brokenness of her heart and how she longs for Wilford to be with her. All these feelings begin to overwhelm her and she begins to cry. George Robinson comes around the corner with an ink and quil, notices the tears and quietly hands her a handkerchief. "Please, sit down." He motions to a rocking chair by the fireplace. She nods and sits in the chair, sobbing at this point. George waits in silence for a moment as Phebe weeps. After a moment, he touches her shoulder lightly. "I know not how to comfort you at this time. But I, and many people in this town are praying that the spirit of the Lord will attend you. And that He will bring peace to Wilford as well." "Thank you. Thank God for you." Phebe wipes her eyes, tears still sliding down her cheeks. "I know the letter writing must be difficult." George gestures to the ink he just brought into the room." You may use my quil if you desire, and if you need me I will be in my study. But I wish to give you your privacy." "You are too kind." "I only wish to serve." George nods at her and leaves her alone in the room. Phebe looks at her letter on the counter by the sorting box, and the ink beside it. Oh my Father, what will I tell Wilford? How can I comfort him, when I am still suffering? Suddenly, Phebe realizes the biggest reason why she broke down in tears, and her prayer becomes more sincere as she asks the questions that have been in her heart. Why can I not feel Thy spirit comforting me? Why am I still in anguish? Wilford is so very far away and this burden is hard to bear alone. Dear Father, I need to feel Thy grace. Please help me to feel Thy love. In this moment, the pure love of Christ gently wraps around her. Her mind is filled with memories from these past couple days. Vilate Kimball showing up on her doorstep to care for her sick little girl so she could get some rest. Patty Sessions coming to dress Sarah Emma for burial so that Phebe wouldn't have to. Mary Ann Young putting her arms around her and holding her tightly during the funeral service. Hyrum Smith saying a prayer over the grave and offering to give her a blessing of comfort. Leonora Taylor offering to watch Wilford Jr so that Phebe could rest and write her letter. George Robison offering his handkerchief and kind words. And many many other people just like them. The spirit then whispers words from the bible in her mind: "lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." A sweet peaceful feeling enters into her heart and she knows that the Savior understands her. His infinite love calms her troubled mind and soothes her hidden wounds. Because of Christ, I will have my little Sarah Emma again. Gratitude for the Savior and Redeemer of the world swells inside her and she walks over to her unfinished letter on the counter. Taking the quil in her hand she adds an extra line on the bottom of the page. "It is a severe trial for me to pass through particularly so in your absence but the Lord has stood by me in a wonderfully manner." After writing this she barely has space to sign her name. She folds it up and gently touches her lips to the paper. I love you Wilford. The Lord will not leave you comfortless. I trust you into His care.

 ******************************* August 29, 1840 Hertfordshire, England Wilford Woodruff tugs off his muddy boots and leans against the wooden table to his right. As he looks over, he sees a letter addressed to him. Willard Richards must have stopped by the post office in the heart of the city on the way out of town. Wilford's heart drops down through his stomach as he recognizes the handwriting. It's from Phebe. Fingers trembling from anticipation, he carefully opens the parchment. "My dearest companion, my beloved Wilford." Just reading the first lines in her handwriting cause deep emotions to rise up in his chest and tears to spring up in his eyes. Oh Phebe. How I miss you. How I long to hold you in my arms once again. Wilford takes a deep breath and continues to read. He eagerly reads about the construction of the temple, what revelation the prophet Joseph Smith had received about baptisms for the dead. He quickly skims over the happenings of the town and then to where Phebe begins to tell him how the family is. Wilford smiles as she describes how Wilford Woodruff Jr is growing and very healthy. He then reads about his daughter Sarah Emma. "The departure of our little Sarah Emma from this world- yes she is gone." Wilford stops and blinks his head. Wait, what did that say? "She is gone." No. No it can't be. Not my Sarah. He keeps reading, biting his lip with worry. "The relentless hand of death has snatched her from my embrace. When looking on her I have often thought how I should feel to part with her." Wilford imagines Phebe in a rocking chair, holding an ill Sarah Emma in her arms. His heart shatters at the thought. Phebes words continue on the paper: "I thought I could not live without her especially in the absence of my companion - but she is gone, the Lord has taken her to himself for some wise purpose. It is a severe trial for me to pass through particularly so in your absence but the Lord has stood by me in a wonderfully manner. All my love, Phebe" Wilford sits in shock, staring at the parchment. How can it be? She can't be gone. His eyes jump to the top of the page to see the date. A month and a half ago? A month and a half? My daughter has been dead for nearly two months and I didn't even know. Wilford puts his head in his hands, fighting back tears. For nearly two months my wife has been grieving in deep anguish. alone. without me even knowing of it. Oh my poor Phebe. Wilford struggles with his emotions, half of his suffering from him missing his daughter and the other half coming from his desire to be with and comfort his wife. He takes her letter over to where he keeps her other few and precious letters. He opens the little box and pulls out one from months before to re-read a certain line, which he nearly has memorized at this point: "I think the grace of God is sufficient for all things, even to raise me from a bed of sickness and preseve me and Sarah until thy return, which is my sincere desire." Wilford lies down on his bed, clutching the papers in his hands and tears streaming down his face. Dear God and Father above. How am I to care for my family when I am so far from them? His mind takes him back to when he was first saying goodbye, earlier in 1839. He vividly remembers how little Sarah Emma clug to his legs as he stroked her fine blonde hair. Her cute little smile looking up at him melted his heart, making it hard to part with her. And his sweet Phebe, his beautiful, compassionate and faithful wife. It seems just yesterday that she embraced him, kissed him and told him how much she loved him before he set off to teach the people of England about the Restoration of Christ's Chruch. The words from his journal echo in his memory: "I make a sacrifice of my all for Christ's sake to do his work. It is no small trial of faith to leave my family, yet I do this freely for Christ's sake, trusting in him" Who knew that my sacrifice for Christ would include this. Does He really ask this sacrifice of me? Or should I begin my travel home immediately? Wilford is practically pulled off his bed by the spirit. He needs to sort out his feelings and seek anwers from the heavens. Its time for a walk. He goes back to the kitchen and puts his muddy boots back on, then his coat and top hat. It's sprinkling outside on the cobble stone streets, and a windy chill rips through his clothes. He bows his head in an attempt to stay warm as well as begins to pray. Oh my Father, I come before thee in humility and sorrow. Sorrow for the loss of my daughter and for my desire to comfort my wife. All i seek is to do thy will, but I just need to know: do you really need me here? Is what I am doing more worthwhile than being home with my family? Wilford turns a corner to walk down the main street, shuffling his feet a little. We have only just begun to have success in these parts. Last year I only baptized but one man! Dear God, is that really more important than my wife and children? Wilford continues to ask these questions as he walks through the town. No answers come. As the sky gets darker, it gets colder. The slight drizzle of rain becomes heavier. Discouraged and disappointed, Wilford goes home to bed. Thoughts of Sarah Emma, Phebe and Wilford Jr keep him awake for a good while but sleep eventually takes him. When Wilford wakes up in the morning, it doesn't take long before he remembers the news from the day before. As soon as he does, he feels depressed again. He wishes that Willard was back from his two day journey to an adjacent city so that he wouldn't be so lonely. Can I even go out and preach today? As soon as he questions it, he knows he must. It is his duty. Whether or not he stays in England he must preach the gospel until he leaves. So Wilford gets ready, grabs copies of the Book of Mormon and heads to the corner on main where he usually teaches. He prays that as he teaches, the spirit will touch someone's heart. He also prays for Phebe. And that he will soon get an answer on what he is to do to help her. A crowd of people gather and Wilford begins to preach to them about faith in Christ, using the Book of Mormon. Some people listen for only a moment and then walk away. Others try to argue with him. And a select few begin to get a light in their eyes and nod in agreement to what he says. "The Book of Mormon teaches that we are to have faith in Christ. And to continue to strengthen our faith in Him daily-" Wilford says, opening up to a verse. A man calls out "How is one to strengthen their faith in Christ when they choose to believe in false doctrine?!? The Book of Mormon is blasphemy, written by a false prophet!" Wilford looks up at this angry person, speaking out of love but also boldly. "I testify that it is good and true. Whatsoever is good and true cometh from Christ. I assure you it is not blashpemy. Listen, does this sound like false doctrine to you? This verse here talks about the people in the ancient Americas and how they strengthened their faith in Christ." Everyone leans in just a little as Wilford reads Helaman 3:35 "Nevertheless they did fast and pray oft, and did was stronger and stronger in their humility, and firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ, unto the filling their souls with joy and consolation, yea, even to the purifying and the sanctification of their hearts, which sanctification cometh because of their yielding their hearts unto God." The spirit fills his chest, giving him almost a burning sensation. The angry man is silent. "I testify that this book is true. And that all who read it may do as these people did- they can become firmer and firmer in the faith of Christ. They can be filled with joy and consolation. They can have sanctified hearts." One of the earnest listeners walks up towards the front. "But wait sir. How does one yield their heart unto God?" "By doing all that He asks. By loving Him and serving Him with all your heart might mind and strength." As Wilford speaks these words, he realizes the power behind them. In this moment the person's eyes fill with tears and the spirit confirms to Wilford that not only was that the answer to this mans earnest question, it is the answer to his own. He needs to yield his heart to God. And that as he does, the Lord will take care of His Phebe and her precious heart. The spirit puts these powerful words into his mind, as an answer from God. "Trust her to me. I will care for her and for thee. Continue your diligent service. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in both of your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up." Wilford shakes this mans hand and gives him a copy of the Book of Mormon. Wilfords own eyes are full of tears also. With the spirit burning within his chest like a literal flame, he stands up to address the rest of the people. "I am a living witness today that the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And that the Book of Mormon is His word, which comforts the weary heart and wounded soul. Any of you who are searching for truth, hope, comfort or solace - you will find it here. This church, even the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day saints is His restored Chruch. He lives and guides this work. He gives me strength to do His work. He is the light and hope of this world. I know this without any doubt. And I am willing to sacrifice anything for Him. All ye that feel this way about the Savior, come and see. Come and find rest to your souls, as I have."

*************************** So! As you might have guessed, Wilford Woodruff continued his sevice until he went home in 1841! His wife continued to faithfully take care of their family until he returned. Wilford also served 4 more missions before his family left Nauvoo, and even Phebe was able to serve with him at one point! But specifically in that year after his daughter Sarah Emma died, Wilford and Phebe exchanged more letters, strengthening each other with their testimonies of the Savior Jesus Christ. Wilford also received a letter from a neighbor in Nauvoo, assuring him that his wife and family would be well taken care of and want for nothing. His missionary efforts became even more successful, and he was able to baptize 336 more people, raise funds for the printing of more scriptures, assist 200 saints as they emigrated to Nauvoo and traveled a total of 7,062 miles at the end of this mission because he went to so many cities to preach the word. In his journal, Wilford stated that while he had never been called to make greater sacrifices, he had also never received greater blessings. Wilford and Phebe Woodruff are astounding examples of yielding their hearts to God. I respect and admire them greatly for their faith. And as they served and gave their will to God, they were blessed beyond what they could even imagine. What blessings will come to you as you re-commit to yielding your heart to God?

 I can tell you about the blessings that have come to me. Wilford, that is exactly how i feel about my mission. I have nevrr been called to make such great sacrifices, but also never received greater blessings. In my mission call letter, I was promised: "Greater blessings and more happiness than you have yet experienced await you as you humbly and prayerfully serve the Lord." That promise has come true. I know that when we give ourselves to the Lord, He is able to make so much more of us than we could ourselves. And just like Wilford and Phebe - I will continue to serve the Savior Jesus Christ with all my heart, might, mind and strength for the rest of my life. I know that He lives. I stand as a witness of His divinity. He is my Savior, my Conqueror and Redeemer. He has stood by me wonderfully throughout my whole life, and especially on my mission. I know He loves us with a perfect love, and I know that we can always trust in Him. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen. Thank you all so much! love you! Sister Bush

October 1, 2019

What a week. Ive seen a lot of rain, shared a lot of testimonies and followed many promptings. I've also met a lot of different families this week! 

We've meet families from all over the United states as well as wonderful families from Poland, Japan, Guatemala, Australia and China! Way cool! 

The family from Pozan Poland was a lot of fun. They actually were not members of the church, and were visiting family in st Luis so they drove down here! She said they always take their family and friends to Nauvoo because of the special feeling here. They wanted pictures after pictures of me and with me haha so I decided to take one with them too. A great experience. They said I could come visit them! 

We had to say a lot of Goodbyes this week. It was hard to say goodbye to the munns and their new pony, elvis. But it worked out. We dipped Graham crackers and asked for life advice. Then i had to say goodbye to sisters Whitmer, Daugherty, Mitchell, Miskin, Taylor and Moss. That one was bitter sweet. I know I will see some of them pretty soon tho so it's okay. Sister Taylor haha was like "don't worry it won't be long I'll be at the airport when you get home" haha so cute.  

Anotber highlight for me was that there was a Little baby girl in one of our tours and i fot her to smile and then to laugh! Her whole family was so shocked. Some of them actually gasped. They said that she rarely smiles or laughs. I felt pretty special after that!!! 

In that same tour (we were at the bakery) i felt inspired to talk to the kids about how brother scovil was not a complainer. And how he was obedient and also cheerful as he obeyed. The parents seemed really grateful that i focused on that, so that was cool.  

Also this week i spent some time Messaging Dan Swope! From casper. I wanted to see how he was doing and found out that the lady who always let us teach him in her home passed away a week ago. In a car accident. So sad. But he seems to be doing good and he wants to go to the other ward. He said he finished reading the new testament this year! I'm so proud of him. 

On saturday we got to do a special assignment called Nauvoo on the road! This is where we take some of our classic games and activities to fares and things nearby to attract visitors! We got to go to beardstown Illinois haha. I was in charge of the stilt station. So I was walking on stilts like all day!! Boy my ankles were so sore. Everyone was impressed I could do it in a pioneer dress tho haha. And the best part was that the kids  kept coming back to our Nauvoo station cuz it was the favorite! Yay! 

I had a really really cool experience with the sacrament and alma 7 that I'll tell you about in our call (: 

On sunday i was Fasting for my companions who are going on outbound: sister john, sister pancheri, sister Decker and Sister young. I also wrote letters for them so that was good. 

I feel that we are making progress but it's also frustrating because she keeps choosing to do things that make her pain worse. (Physical and mental.) And so I'm really learning a lot about agency. And why it's necessary and how much God loves us to be able to let us choose - even when we choose wrong. And all He wants to do is help us. But often we don't let him. That's what I'm learning haha. But i won't give up trying. I'm still doing my best to reach out. Cuz that's what he does. He is always reaching out. 

 At Brigham young yesterday I got to bear my testimony a lot. It was awesome. It seemed that in every tour, the spirit helped me find a way to testify of the restoration or of the Savior and His church. It was so cool. I think I was blessed because I was trying extra hard to follow the spirit. One of my favorite tours was when I talked about how inspired Brigham young and the rest of the 12 were back then and felt the need to connect it to our day. And talk about conference. And promise that if they listened with the spirit that the quorum of the 12 would share something that their family specifically needs. How cool. 

 

Today in the celestial room i was pondering/praying about my mission. How to finish strong and not be distracted by so many people leaving and going home. Cuz every guest I met asks how long I have and what I'll do at the end. Every missionary wants to know. Emma messages me with her count down. And it's just everywhere!!! I can't escape it haha. My answer in the celestial room came from doctrine and Covenants 62. (I always read the doctrine and Covenants in the celestial room and I love it!) 

Anyways this is what the chapter says: 

1 Behold, and hearken, O ye elders of my church, saith the Lord your God, even Jesus Christ, your advocate, who knoweth the weakness of man and how to succor them who are tempted. (Tempted to be distracted or unfocused)

2 And verily mine eyes are upon those who have not as yet gone up unto the land of Zion; WHEREFORE YOUR MISSION IS NOT YET FULL. 

3 Nevertheless, ye are blessed, for the testimony which ye have borne is recorded in heaven for the angels to look upon; and they rejoice over you, and your sins are forgiven you.

4 And now continue your journey. (Continue your service without hesitation.) Assemble yourselves upon the land of Zion; and hold a meeting and rejoice together, and offer a sacrament unto the Most High.

5 And then you may return to bear record, yea, even altogether, or two by two, as seemeth you good, it mattereth not unto me; only be faithful, and declare glad tidings unto the inhabitants of the earth, or among the congregations of the wicked.

6 Behold, I, the Lord, have brought you together that the promise might be fulfilled, that the faithful among you should be preserved and rejoice together in the land of Missouri. I, the Lord, promise the faithful and cannot lie.

7 I, the Lord, am willing, if any among you desire to ride upon horses, or upon mules, or in chariots, he shall receive this blessing, if he receive it from the hand of the Lord, with a thankful heart in all things.

8 These things remain with you to do according to judgment and the directions of the Spirit.

9 Behold, the kingdom is yours. And behold, and lo, I am with the faithful always. Even so. Amen.

So comforting. It was perfect. And so I know I have more work to do. In this next little bit, there are things I still need to accomplish! For he said that my mission is not yet full. And like lucius scovil, "I am determined to fill my mission if it cost me all that I have on this earth" 

And so every day I am going to pray in the morning to know what he wants me to do that day. Of course I've been doing that for a long time but I'm going to be more specific in my prayers. And I'm excited to see what work he has for me to do, and the miracles that come from it. 

This is the work of the Lord. I know it. And I am so grateful to be a part of it. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

Love you so much!!!!! 

Sister Bush 

September 25, 2019

Just a couple highlights: 

My nap today was longer than intended hahaha so it's a short email cuz we got to go to the temple and prepare our lesson!! 

At lucy mack i met this cute Spanish family: there was a young man with crutches, and he injured himself from football so I started talking to him about football. Asked him all about it haha. He lit up instantly and as we talked about it somehow we started talking about missions. And him preparing for a mission. It was an amazing conversation. His mom was so funny she wanted to take a picture of my book of mormon cuz she that it was so cute hahaha we took a picture together of us pretending to study it together and she loved it haha 

I got to serve at lyon drug twice this week. I used to not like serving there. But i love it now. I love showing people the gardens. The Lyon drug gardens have become sacred to me. Its interesting to ponder, because The Lord loves gardens too. (Garden of eden, garden of gethsemane, garden by the tomb when he was resurrected, etc.) So I love that place. 

On sunday we were on call, which means we weren't assigned to sites. So we decided to go to carthage. Cuz i miss that place. We got a tour from sister Miskin and Mitchell. It was good. I think the reason it was special was because the whole time i kept redirecting My thoughts and feelings to the Savior. 

The other day we were serving at land and records and i was helping this man and his son. They kept talking to themselves "woah Leslie would love this. Oh gosh Leslie will go crazy over this. I can't wait to show leslie. Etc. Etc." I finally told them that it was weirding me out cuz that's my first name haha we had a good laugh and I loved learning about their family. Before they left they were like

"you made our day" 

"you are like our leslie" 

It was so sweet. 

This week i made a lot a lot of Banana bread haha. My roommates call me an addict for it. But i don't eat it all! I delivered like 5 loaves of banana bread the other day to people. It makes me happy. And makes our house smell good too (; 

We Had dinner with the Tolmans (from el paso) and osmans. It was WAY good. We  talked about finding peace in troubling times. I love those guys. 

 

Came home to try to do more organizing: 

Started reading my old journals.

Wow. 

I can't believe where I was and how far I've come. I forgot how much I struggled. I forgot how much I grew. I wish I had recorded more of my feelings instead of just events. It just astounds me how as I humbled myself, the Lord was able to mold me and shape me. It all seems so long ago, yet it was yesterday. "Our lives passed by as it were a dream." 

It was pretty sobering to read my journals and realize all of this. And look back on my mission, my memories and my testimony. I'm not sure what to think. I don't want to "wrap up" my mission. I don't want to say goodbye and "move on to the next stage of life." I want to bring my mission with me. I want to keep searching, stretching and striving. I want to look back in 2 years and again think the same thing: wow. Look how much I've changed. Look how much my testimony has grown. 

Well I think those are some of my thoughts this week!

Love you both!!!! Talk to you next week!!! 

Sister Bush 

September 18, 2019

2 key points from this week were going to the fighting preacher with all the missionaries in our mission! Such a good film. I loved loved loved the woman who acted as Rebecca bean. I thought she was fantastic. Also, the little girl was just perfect. I hope you watch it this week Because it's fantastic! 

The other was that meeting with sister wadley where the Lord gave me the strength to be weak, to be vulnerable in front of people so that they can have their testimonies strengthened. I told the sisters to get rid of their walls, even though it is in front of strangers and guests it is actually in front of our spiritual siblings. And only because of the veil do they feel like strangers. So we should be willing to share our testimonies. And of course not throwing pearls before swine but to at least be open and okay with sharing personal experiences. So that was cool. 

Another thing is that one of my all time favorite senior couples, The Robisons, are leaving! They have been a constant on my whole mission. They were here when I got here, emailed me on outbound and served with me again this summer. I love them. The good news is that they are only 40 minutes from rexburg so they told me they will have me over for dinner and I can help them out on the farm too! Maybe a weekend job haha. That is if I'm not in Utah visiting you guys every weekend hahaha 

A couple days this week ive tried writing Grateful lists! Throughout the day, if I realize I'm grateful for something (like the nice weather, or feeling the spirit in that tour, or that one of the sisters ran to give me a hug, q butterfly landed on my shoulder, ect) just little things I love. I keep track of them and then read it at the end of the day! It helps me realize just how much the Lord blesses me each day with tender mercies and beautiful moments. It also helps me keep a prayer in my heart cuz I'm thinking about things im grateful for all day! 

As for how my companion is doing, this week has been rough.  One night I was praying and we went to the temple and I was just pleading for help and strength and yes sort of complaining to heavenly father about how exhausted I was with her too. But i just was needing assurance and comfort. In the celestial room he answered me in the form of doctrine and covenants 6. 

"Behold, the field is white already to harvest; therefore, whoso desireth to reap, let him thrust in his sickle with his might, and reap while the day lasts, that he may treasure up for his soul everlasting salvation in the kingdom of God.

Yea, whosoever will thrust in his sickle and reap, the same is called of God.

Therefore, if you will ask of me you shall receive; if you will knock it shall be opened unto you.

Now, as you have asked, behold, I say unto you, keep my commandments, and seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion;

Verily, verily, I say unto you, even as you desire of me so it shall be unto you; and if you desire, you shall be the means of doing much good in this generation (or unto sister Young.)

Behold thou hast a gift, (not a gift of translating but a gift of helping people that struggle with this type of issue.) and blessed art thou because of thy gift. Remember it is sacred and cometh from above—

And if thou wilt inquire, thou shalt know mysteries which are great and marvelous; therefore thou shalt exercise thy gift, that thou mayest find out mysteries, that thou mayest bring many to the knowledge of the truth, yea, convince them of the error of their ways.

 If thou wilt do good, yea, and hold out faithful to the end, thou shalt be saved in the kingdom of God, which is the greatest of all the gifts of God; for there is no gift greater than the gift of salvation.

Verily, verily, I say unto thee, blessed art thou for what thou hast done; for thou hast inquired of me, and behold, as often as thou hast inquired thou hast received instruction of my Spirit. If it had not been so, thou wouldst not have come to the place where thou art at this time. (To receive an answer at the temple)

Behold, thou knowest that thou hast inquired of me and I did enlighten thy mind; and now I tell thee these things that thou mayest know that thou hast been enlightened by the Spirit of truth;

Yea, I tell thee, that thou mayest know that there is none else save God that knowest thy thoughts and the intents of thy heart."

And finally the best part: 

"Behold, thou art Oliver, (sister Bush) and I have spoken unto thee because of thy desires; therefore treasure up these words in thy heart. Be faithful and diligent in keeping the commandments of God, and I will encircle thee in the arms of my love.

Behold, I am Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I am the same that came unto mine own, and mine own received me not. I am the light which shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not.

Therefore, fear not, little flock; do good; let earth and hell combine against you, for if ye are built upon my rock, they cannot prevail.

 Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not.

 Behold the wounds which pierced my side, and also the prints of the nails in my hands and feet; be faithful, keep my commandments, and ye shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Amen."

I am just so grateful for the temple. I'm grateful for a father in heaven who cares and who is always willing to answer us and comfort us. And that he does it in such a personal way! 

Couple more things: 

We had dinner with  the archies, a super cute temple missionary couple! They made us some BOMB food. Like wow. Like so good i want the recipe so I can share it with you. We also played a game kind of like rummy! It was good stuff. 

Ive crocheted lots of Baby hats this week haha. It's something for my hands to do when my companion wants to talk and I can listen. And make lots of cuteness baby hats haha it's for a humanitarian project that the senior sisters are doing (: I like it! I want to make one for Ainsley but I need her head size haha 

Also yes i loved president nelsons devotional! I got to watch it too! I was at the heber c kimball home so our service was the worst and it kept having difficulties but i loved everything i got to watch and took good notes (: my favorite was when he explained divine law and how he learned how to "turn the heart off" and was like IT ALWAYS WORKS! haha so cool. There was also a YSA devotional with elder Soares and we loved that too. Lots of good questions and testimonies too. My favorite was how he talked about how Christ is our hope. 

We met a family from australia this week that is traveling in the United States and going to all the historic sites. Best part was connecting with their daughter and she told me that because of her experience here she wants to go on a mission! Yes! Lives changed. I love Nauvoo. 

Oh plus also we had a cool experience third week with Teaching the whitings! We did it by the spirit and felt like we should start by singing a primary song: a child's prayer. And then ask them if it brought any experiences or memories to mind. It was super cool! I love how the spirit works with us. 

Anyways that's just about my week (: 

Love you so much! 

Thanks for all your support and prayers and pictures and testimonies and everything. Love you both so much. Can't wait to call in a bit! Less than an hour haha 

Love 

Sister Bush

September 11, 2019

this is going to be a frantic email haha because i have an hour until pday is over.... we spent the rest of the day going around to some shops and i also did some researching on where you can stay. the other one i heard from a senior was fake news because i did all the research and its meant for youth groups and its over 300 dollars haha. 

so the best one in town is the 60 dollars a night at the havenlight gallery apartments. so definitely call scott sumner about it because that is the way to go. and probably call him sooner rather than later, so it can be reserved(: just remember to tell him that you are sister bush's parents haha

as for other things, i already told you about how i'm spending all my time trying to stay dedicated and focused. which is way good. i've had some really awesome study sessions (like the alma 32 revelation one i was talking about) and others. like another cool one i had was reading alma 26 and realizing that i can relate to ammon in such a personal way now. because the way he feels about his mission is exactly the same way that i feel about mine! man i love it. i love the scriptures!!!!! 

a couple favorite experiences from this week:

i was having a lousy day at brigham youngs house. i didn't stay focused very well because there was a mouse that kept bothering us and it was fun to take videos and try to bait it and stuff and before i knew it i had "wasted" good study time on this mouse. and because of that i felt like i had been giving some pretty pathetic tours haha. well, i realized this and began to pray for a better attitude and for at least one more tour to come in so i could have at least one good one. well, this one family showed up and the kids did not want to get out. it was there last stop of the day and they were done haha. you know kids. well the parents asked me to like help encourage them to come by telling them how fun the home is. well, i get up, start talking to them and before i could stop myself i heard myself saying the words "if you can guess the end of one of the stories i tell ill let you touch an artifact" OH NO WHAT HAVE I DONE haha i was shocked it just sorta came out! well that got them in the house. and then i helped them guess the ending. so low and behold they got to touch the chair made by phineas young and mary anns bonnet. boy i hope no one finds out about that..... but ive thought about it and it really doesn't matter. its just an old chair! and because i let it happen, those kids had the best experience ever. they just LOVED it and they actually listened when i bore my testimony too. so it was meant to be i guess! haha 

another one was when i was at the brickyard, ya know, living the life and making bricks hahaha and i get this tour of these 4 adults and they are literally the funniest people i've ever met. we just made fun of each other the whole time! haha it was great. they were older but they acted like they were in their late teens. well at the end it was the best cuz i gave them a brick and the main jokester took a pencil and wrote sister bush on the back. he was like "i want to remember who made this brick." and i was like "awkward cuz i didn't make that one...." and we were all laughing and he was like "WELLLLL close enough" hahaha but it was also kind of tender cuz he's going home with a brick that says sister bush on the back. cute. 

also! with all the time in the temple we spend, we've made quite a few temple missionary friends! the Linsleys invited us over for dinner and it was literally the sweetest ever. they are so cute. he told us a story about them and their family on a boat during a storm and how they were safe because they put their anchors out when it was still calm. he bore his testimony about how we need to put our spiritual anchors out. it was so cute, he got chocked up about it too! aw i just love it. 

i love everything about nauvoo and the people here. i'm really just soaking it up. i only have 1 month left but i know i will enjoy every second of it(: and then ill enjoy every second at home too! because the work wont stop!!! 

love you!!!!! more than you know!!!!! 

sister bush

September 4, 2019

Hey all! 

Things are going great in Nauvoo. Every day is a new adventure with new miracles, funny experiences and life lessons learned! 

A miracle we saw was when we had a day at the visitors center when we had so many people who wanted to know more about what we believe that we almost ran out of copies of the book of mormon! We only had 2 left haha crazy cool. 

Also, best quote of the week goes to sister Young when she threatened me by saying: "I will touch your feet if you call me boo" hahaha 

These past couple weeks I've learned a lot from the Riser family. (I know I've included 2 parts of their story already so if you've read those feel free to skip to part 3.) 

Background info: 

George and Christiana were both originally from Germany but moved to Nauvoo when they were little kids. They met and were married in Ohio. George had a very successful shoe shop there, but upon hearing of the persecution of the members of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day saints, he felt inspired and wanted to know more. So they sold their shoe shop and moved to Nauvoo to see what they could learn!  They wanted to find out why these church members were willing to sacrifice so much. As George and Christiana came to know the restored truths of Christ's gospel, they too chose to make sacrifices...... 

PART 1 

George stares in fixation at a wooden shoe last, concentrating on poking the holes with the awl in the right place. His eyebrows wrinkle as he threads the flax seed string through the holes in the leather. 

Christiana watches him pull out the nails in silence. She's anxious to talk but doesn't want to interrupt his work. 

Finally she can't help herself. 

"George?" 

"Hm?" He's still staring intently, and doesn't look up. 

"I want to discuss something with you." 

He nods, but Christiana knows he isn't listening. 

"Sie da." She speaks German, their native tongue, to signify that she needs his attention. 

George looks up, sets down the shoe last and puts the hammer in his lap. "Ja?" 

"I wish to ask your opinion of the Prophet, the Prophet Joseph Smith and his words this morning." Christiana studies him, her heart pounding. 

George smiles. "I was contemplating the very thing at this very moment!"

Christiana laughs and then leans forward. "And? What are your feelings on the subject?" 

He rests his arm on his work table and runs his hand through his hair. 

"I cannot forget the feeling in my chest as he spoke...... as he explained eternal truths with such simplicity and testified of our Lord Jesus Christ with such surety. I feel as if the aching void in my heart has been filled with His restored gospel." 

Relieved and overjoyed with his response, Christiana jumps up. "I feel the same!" 

They nearly dance around the kitchen, rejoicing. He spins her and they nearly fall over, bumping into his work table. Shoe lasts and nails fall on the floor. Neither of them are bothered, because the feeling in the room and in their hearts is a deep, pure joy. 

George smiles from ear to ear, tears filling his eyes as he tenderly grabs Christianas hands. "I know it's true. We must be baptized." Christiana agrees and they embrace. 

Only hours later, Christiana is awoken in the middle of the night by her baby boy. John. He was sick all day and now he's not only crying but hes struggling to breathe. She scoops him up in her arms and rushes to awake her husband. 

George runs down the stairs and gets a rag wet for the baby's head. He comes back up the stairs and kneels and Christianas side, eyes full of concern. 

A painful hour goes by and George gets up, pacing the room. 

"I cannot bear to see him like this. And he's only getting worse." 

Baby John gasps for air, coughs, and begins to wail again. 

Christianas hands shake as she touches Johns forehead. "Should we call upon brother Joseph?" Her words are barely a whisper. 

George stares into the little candle flame and then back at their son. "He is a man of God. If anyone will know what to do, it will be him." 

He then begins putting on his shoes, coat and scarf. He kisses John Jacobs forehead and squeezes his wife's fingers. 

"I'll be back." 

As the night goes on, and John gets worse and worse, Christiana holds her little son tightly in her arms, listening to his feeble coughs and desperate gasps. A question continues to plaguge her mind. Why? If we are trying to be faithful, why is the Lord letting this happen? 

She rocks her son back and forth, silent tears sliding down her face. 

"Oh God, please heal my son." 

    *********************************

PART 2

Christiana rocks her precious one year old and begins to sing softly to him. She sings the hymn she heard at church that has come to mind often since she first heard it: 

"The time is far spent; there is little remaining

To publish glad tidings by sea and by land.

Then hasten, ye heralds; go forward proclaiming:

Repent, for the kingdom of heaven’s at hand,

Repent, for the kingdom of heaven’s at hand."

The hymn has new meaning to her now. Christiana feels comforted by the thought that glad tidings are coming her way and that the kingdom of heaven is at hand. 

Soon she hears the door downstairs, and stops singing. It opens and closes, and then the stairs creek as her hsuaband and the others climb up to where she is. First emerges her George, then Elder Orson Hyde, and last of all comes the Prophet Joseph Smith. Holding his hat in his hands, he looks at Christiana and then John. 

"You were right to call upon us, he is gravely ill." 

Joseph touches his fingers to the little boys head, and Orson Hyde does the same. 

"We shall bless him in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ." 

Christiana nods, tears filling her eyes. 

Joseph then pronounces a blessing on the boys head, using the power of God given to him to heal in the same way Christ healed when He was on the earth. He speaks with power and authority, boldly declaring that John Jacob would live, and be instantly made whole. The spirit fills the room and Joseph finishes in the name of Jesus Christ. He puts his arm around Orson Hyde as they watch John. Everyone's eyes on the little one, breathlessly waiting to see what he does. John Jacob coughs, gasps for air and then sighs. He eases into his mother's arms and blinks many times until his eyes close and he is breathing softly. 

"I have never seen such a miracle as this." Christiana whispers, in awe. 

Joseph smiles and shakes George's hand. 

"The priesthood power - given to man- is one of Gods holiest gifts. It is meant to bless all His children. Thank you for asking me to come." 

"No, thank you. Thank you." George embraces him. "We were so very worried, but we can now rest." 

"It was my privilege and honor. Let me know how he is in the morn." 

Orson and Joseph leave and head back home. 

George turns to Christiana. "Was that not miraculous?" 

She laughs. "It is remarkable to think I was concerned about death only moments ago, when he is now sleeping soundly and breathing as if he hasn't a care in the world. God be thanked for His prophet." 

"And God be thanked for you my dear, and your beautiful faith. We heard you finish singing a hymn as we entered the house." 

Christiana smiles. "It was how the Lord was comforting me." 

George kisses her forehead. "It was not comforting to you alone, but to me as well. Thank you." 

After this experience, George and Christiana simply cannot wait another day to be baptized. So they choose to cut a hole in the frozen ice of the Mississippi river to do so! It is an expression of their gratitude to the Lord and a desire to join His church. 

As George comes up out of the frigid water, he cuts through the ice, gets on solid ground and embraces his beloved wife as she wraps a blanket around his shoulders. 

"I've n-n-never been ha-happier in my life!" He exclaims, shivering from head to toe. 

Christiana laughs and hurries over to the waters edge for her turn. 

Joseph stands in the frozen river, hugging himself to try to stay warm. She can see his breath in the air. 

That moment, as the icy water climbs up her legs inside her dress, Christiana gasps and takes a step backwards. 

She pauses and says a little prayer in her heart. 

Father, please give me strength. 

The words of the hymn from the night before re-enter her mind, this time the second verse. 

"Shrink not from your duty, however unpleasant,

But follow the Savior, your pattern and friend.

Our little afflictions, tho painful at present,

Ere long, with the righteous, in glory will end,

Ere long, with the righteous, in glory will end." 

Christiana smiles and wades even deeper, pushing forward into the freezing water. 

Im doing this for you God. Thank you. 

*********************************** 

PART 3 

4 and a half months later: May 1843 

Christiana and George Riser sit at their small kitchen table in silence. He stares out the window and she can only bare to look at the wooden floorboards. Quite opposite of her baptism day, she feels very disconnected from God. And the worst part is, she doesn't want to bridge the gap. 

Finally, George sighs. "I'm going to bed. Maybe through sleep I can escape the pain." 

"You know it will only be worse when you wake up.... Like this morning." Christiana reminds him. 

It hurts her to think of the heart wrenching experience they had when they woke up that morning, when they realized that their son was still gone. John Jacob, the joy of their lives had gotten sick again in April. This time when the Prophet Joseph Smith came to bless him, he didn't feel inspired to promise life and healing but instead a blessing of comfort and peace. It wasn't long after that blessing took place that her little John took his last breath. 

Christianas grief is so deep, she feels physically sick to her stomach and it aches to move. 

George nods. "I know.... I just need to lie down." He takes her hand and squeezes it before disappearing upstairs. 

Christiana, now left to her own thoughts and feelings, puts her forehead down on the table. She feels an inner tug to talk to God but she doesn't want to. She's too upset. 

She begins to have an argument with herself: 

Trust in God. You promised to when you got baptized. 

That was back when I believed in a God who loved me. 

He does love you. Reach out to Him. 

I don't want Him to comfort me. I want my son back. 

Angry tears sting in her eyes. 

Why didn't God heal my John like before? I have even stronger faith than I did the first time! Does He not care? 

After struggling with these questions and no answers for a long couple hours, Christiana decides to go to sleep as well. She finds her husband crying softly into his pillow and her heart shatters. 

Dear God, give us the strength to carry on. 

The next morning is Sunday and the first miracle of the day, the first answer to her prayer, is that Christiana actually has the desire to go to church. She wants to listen to the Prophet teach about Christ - which is a big change from the night before. She still doesn't feel like opening up to God about her feelings and asking for help but she knows she will feel better if they at least go. George agrees with her and so they get ready for the day, hastily eat breakfast and walk to the grove of trees where Joseph usually preaches. 

As they arrive, the saints welcome them with open arms. Christiana is hugged more times than she can count, and personally greeted by nearly all the sisters. 

They sing an opening hymn about faith in God, someone prays fervently for the spirit of the Lord to enlighten them and then Joseph Smith stands up to speak to them. 

"Brothers and Sisters. What are we to do when hard times befall us? When trials and tribulations surround us? Will our hearts become hardened and our faith faded?" He looks around at everyone in the congration. 

"Our Heavenly Father never turns His back on us, nor should we turn our back on Him." 

Christiana feels his words pierce her and knows that this is meant for her. 

Joseph continues: "The power of the Gospel will enable us to stand and bear with patience the great affliction that is falling upon us on all sides. The harder the persecution the greater the gifts of God upon his church. Yea, all things shall work together for good to them who are willing to lay down their lives for Christ’s sake. All difficulties which might and would cross our way must be surmounted. Though the soul be tried, the heart faint, and the hands hang down, we must not retrace our steps; there must be decision of character.”

Joseph pauses, and Christiana feels the weight of his words. 

A decision of character. Like the decision I made at baptism, I must renew my commitment to God. Even though this is a hard path in which to travel, I must show Him I am willing. 

Joseph raises his hand to emphasize what he next says. “Having confidence in the power, wisdom, and love of God, the Saints have been enabled to go forward through the most adverse circumstances, and frequently, when to all human appearances, nothing but death presented itself, and destruction [seemed] inevitable, has the power of God been manifest, His glory revealed, and deliverance effected; and the Saints, like the children of Israel, who came out of the land of Egypt, and through the Red Sea, have sung an anthem of praise to his holy name.”

The spirit overwhelms Christiana with an electrifying feeling as the Prophet now testifies boldly:

“Stand fast, ye Saints of God, hold on a little while longer, and the storm of life will be past, and you will be rewarded by that God whose servants you are, and who will duly appreciate all your toils and afflictions for Christ’s sake and the Gospel’s. Your names will be handed down to posterity as Saints of God. In Jesus' name, even the Only Begotten of the Father, amen." 

Christiana bows her head and looks at her hands, deeply touched. She continues to feel the spirit as other speakers offer their remarks. 

When the closing hymn is announced, Christiana's heart skips a beat. A warm feeling, similar to the one of her baptism day, gently settles and rests in her heart. Everyone begins to sing the words that are so familiar to her: the words she once sang to her infant son John. The words that came to her mind at the waters edge on her baptism day. And now the words of the 3rd and 4th hymn ring true, with new meaning to her during this trial her family is now experiencing: 

"What, tho, if the favor of Ahman possessing,

This world’s bitter hate you are called to endure?

The angels are waiting to crown you with blessings!

Go forward, be faithful, the promise is sure.

Go forward, be faithful, the promise is sure."

George, sensing her feelings and having a spiritual experience of his own, puts his arm around her as they sing the last verse. 

"Be fixed in your purpose, for Satan will try you;

The weight of your calling he perfectly knows.

Your path may be thorny, but Jesus is nigh you;

His arm is sufficient, tho demons oppose.

His arm is sufficient, tho demons oppose."

By the time the song ends, Christiana is in tears. She feels as though she has been wrapped in the Saviors strong, loving arms. 

She then imagines those same arms around her little son John. 

She bows her head in the most humble, sincere prayer she has ever given.

My dear Father, I'm sorry for my hardened heart. I am wading in the depths of sorrow, and in need of much comfort. Please soften my pain and heal my soul. I thank Thee for Thy merciful plan of redemption, and for the atoning sacrifice and ressurection of Thy Son. I am grateful that my little boy John is now safe in His embrace. I renew my covenant with Thee to give my all for Thee and Thy gospel. My inmost desire is to share an eternal union with my family, and i am willing to endure any hardship to be blessed with such a glorious blessing. Oh Father, I now put my troubled heart at your feet. I will ever be faithful to Thee.

          **************************** 

Now, I'm not sure what sort of prayers Christiana actually offered or how she was comforted, but I do know that her comfort came from the Prince of Peace, even Jesus Christ. He is the source of all peace, comfort and healing. Because of Him, Christiana was able to bear the weight of her son's death and look forward with faith in Christ's ressurection and the joy of eternal families. I know for a fact that she remained faithful during her life of trials! She and her dilligent husband continued to press forward and firmly kept the covenants that they had made. Christiana is a great example to me, even though I may not know all the true details of her story!!! 

I thought it fitting to finish my historical fiction for the Riser family and write about the ways they may have strengthened their faith in the Savior because just recently my family has also experienced loss. Just like Christiana, my family sometimes feels that we are wading in deep sorrow. But I bare my sure witness to you that our Father in Heaven loves us. He has a plan that enables families to be together forever. Central to that plan is our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. I know that He lives! I know that He understands us perfectly and will "encircle us in the arms of His love." And this knowledge brings me comfort and joy! In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Thanks for reading! 

Do something this week to strengthen your own faith in Christ! As you strengthen your faith in Him, He will give you the power to meet life's challenges. 

Love, 

Sister Bush 

August 29, 2019

Hello!!!!! 

Insights from the meeting with president lusvardi: 

He talked to us about "our next transfer" meaning our transfer home. Here's of his quotes: 

"When you want to be somewhere, and you are really there, you can make a difference there. You aren't home yet. You are here. So BE HERE." 

"Work right through to the very end. Get every minute from it. Enjoy every ounce of it." 

"These are your people forever. You may not know their names or remember all of them, but they are yours. Nauvoo is always yours." 

"This is not a common mission experience. You've been prepared for won't great things ahead. You will have rough patches. Your mission experience will carry you through them. Sister Lusvardi and I are not going to fade away after this. We've got more to do. The Lord is not done with us. It is the same with you. You have service yet to come.

Stand forever. Don't worry. Let not your heart be troubled or afraid. The Lord has prepared you for greatness. This is his work. You know it and I know it. And we are still in it. Make every second count. In the name of Jesus Christ amen." 

This week I served at the cultural hall, bakery, the visitors center, the streets of kuekuk, home, the wagon, land and records and facilities management! Such a variety of places, and a variety of people so I've had a variety of experiences! Let me tell you about a few: 

I met a 45 year old lady with special needs at the cultural hall! She was the cutest. She was on an outing with her social group. We talked about music and she told me she had a great singing voice, so I said I would love to hear it. She then sang amazing Grace for me. (All of her friends plugged their ears or left the building hahaha) but it was sweet because to me it wasn't the quality of her singing or voice - but rather the sincerity in her heart. In that way, it was one of the most beautiful singing I've ever heard. 

In the bakery I met a young mother and her new child of 10 months! We talked about the blessings of the temple and I felt inspired to ask a question. This led to her telling me she didn't feel like she got to the temple enough and I was able to tell her that she could still have the strength and power from the covenants, even if she wasn't able to go often. Some of the saints only went once in their lifetime! But it was their attitude to their covenants that gave them strength. So it was cool to be able to tell her that. 

Outbound workshop: Virginia Rose and don Eckers - I told you about them during our call.  The ones in keukuk that were like: wait. You believe in Jesus christ? And I was like YES! Haha 

Also! I joined the ward mission Choir! Finally! I've always wanted to, but none of my comps have been interested because it's so early haha but sister young said she would do it! 

Best part: the choir sang that day the song I need thee every hour. It was so good. 

Speaking of music and songs, I'm writing a song for Nauvoo. I've got the melody and the words and I can sing it but I'm going to get some other missionaries to help me come up with 

On the wagon i felt very prompted to talk about Gods love. Since that is what i has been studying i used a scripture from the book of mormon about being filled with gods love and testified that is how the saints got through hard times. This guy, i dont even know his name, but as i bore my testimony he was just so engaged and smiling a lot and at the end he was just like "thank you so much." I don't know what he needed but i'm glad the spirit was able to work through me! 

Me to this 5 year old girl: why are you so cute? Can you tell me your secret? What is your secret for being so cute? 

Little girl: well, it's my curly hair 

I died from her ADORABLENESS haha 

We played with toys at land and records while her parents did family history. She loved it so much she said she didn't want to leave! Aw! 

We got to do some fun weeding at Facilities management the other day! We had a jungle of weeds that we attacked with our clippers and knives and gloves. It was actually the best because as we weeded to make Nauvoo beautiful we talked with these senior sisters about life and about Gods tender mercies. I know for a fact that without the facilities management missionaries, Nauvoo would not be nearly as spiritually powerful as it is.  Also we found some way weird (but also cute) caterpillars haha 

That's about my week! Seems short. Weird. 

I also told you about how the spirit guides me to talk to my companion about things, what I learned from Zeniff and his people, why Isaiah used the word travail, what it really means to know christ and not just have a testimony of his existence and also how I'm trying to be extra consecrated these last 6ish weeks! 

You guys are the best! I love you! Have a stellar week! 

Love love love love love 

Sister Bush