hard to believe

Hello! Wow, a lot of "final words" from everyone. Maybe I'll have a few for you too. Ha.

Luckily it's not actually my last words at all. It might sound strange but this has been the hardest week of my mission.  Between attending a "farewell" dinner for the 10 other missionaries who were actually returning home last Monday and then the companionship that I"ve been in this last week, it's been a doozy. Let's just say we've been in President's office twice in the last week and I'm either playing referree or trying not to play at all. It's been a good experience to learn about myself and my limits and what does and absolutely doesn't work in missionary work. That said, it's been hard. Ha. It sounds like it's been hard on President Gilbert too. He called us this morning and told us that there is going to be an emergency transfer this week after I leave--someone who is currently serving here will be moving. It has been incredible to realize that Heavenly Father really is the perfect micromanager. If I hadn't been here I think it may have come to blows or absolute depression. A lot of important things have happened since I've been here and I'm glad I've had the opportunity to realize that.

Anyway, besides really not getting too much missionary work done (we're the sisters over 3 areas in Busan, but things haven't really been going all that well as a result of companionship dynamics).

In the past week, I have been able to meet some really lovely people who have had amazing conversion stories this year. It definitely helps me have a grander vision when I'm on the subway with a ton of people. It has been a long time since I've had an area where people really are everywhere. It's kind of nice, really .That said, focus has been down for all of us, I think. A few more days to give it a shot.

I can't tell you how grateful I have been for this opportunity and your support along the way. You kept me sane some weeks and kept me going some weeks.  You helped me see how I could do better and helped me see what I was already doing, and man, you always made me laugh. Thank you for that.

I know this is God's work. His timing is not always our timing, but He has a plan and if we yield our hearts to him we find it everytime. I know Christ knows the depth, darkness and nuance of every hole we've ever been in ever will be in, but more important than that he knows the person in the hole, perfectly. He wants us to come with him. And, in that journey I am so grateful for the times he has allowed me to lower a ladder down to anyone else who may be less fortunate than I, in a deeper and darker place. I know He is the light of the world and the only way out. I love Him. I love you all so much and know this is true. Thank you for your testimonies in word, but most of all in the way you have lived.

Seoul temple on Thursday night/Friday morning, then a plane on Friday morning. Ah. Until then I'll be gladly going at it with the last few days with this nametag on.

The best is yet to come. I love you!!

Sister Mecham

busan it will be

Hello!

I have little to no time. All the computers we use are broken. I am in Busan after transfer day meeting where all the returning missionaries bore their testimonies, yours truly included. It kind of made the reality of leaving soon hit me, so there were lots of tears, but I was grateful for the opportunity to bear my testimony and be surrounded by a lot REALLY good missionaries who have worked hard here. I am the only sister returning this transfer and there are 10 elders returning, many of whom have been my zone leaders and district leaders. It was good, but I kind of wish I didn't have to see everyone and have everyone tell me I'm leaving. Ha. I know. It's a reality I have to face, but it is kind of hard with all the build up. Thanks for the advice and support!

It's hard to believe this is the 2nd to last email I will write you before I am in Guam. I'm grateful to be here. I will be serving in Busan these next ten days and my old companion, Sister Baker, will wait until the new missionaries arrive and then begin TRAINING! She is petrified, but I know she'll do well.

While I was packing my stuff to come here yesterday, I was out of my mind and Sister Baker had plenty to do on her plate too, but instead she decided to shine and fix the shoes (pieces of junk as they are) that I will probably wear to the temple/to return home because she knew it needed doing. I was so grateful and humbled with her willingness to put my needs first. It was a good reminder.

It was a good last week in Jeju. I felt love for the people and the work again, and truly that is a miracle. So much love comes from just doing it in spite of what your moods tell you you should do. Elder Maxwell said something like this about hope. Those who are mauled by their moods lose the steadfastness of hope. That has definitely been true on my mission. I am so grateful for the goodness of the members. A few gave me gifts and wept when I cried. I guess I hadn't really felt like I connected with a lot of people in certain areas, so as hard as it was to go, it was nice to have some manifestation of appreciation. Satan works hard, but when we let it, the spirit works so march harder, smarter and better.

I know this work is true and I'm going to keep going. Thank you for your love and support. The best gift I can give Christ is a willing heart for the rest of my mission. I plan on it! I love you!

Love,

Julia