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