Today is a day of mixed emotions. As we come to the end of this two year adventure they call a mission, my heart is filled with nothing but gratitude and joy. The past two years have been an experience like no other, but I’m just grateful that the Lord saw fit to let me be a part of it and see his hand bless the lives of folks through me. There is a quote I saw once that I think sums things up pretty well.
“Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he has been robbed. Most putts don’t drop. Most beef is tough. Most children grow up to be just people. Most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration. Most jobs are more often dull than otherwise. Life is like an old-time rail journey: delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders, and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling bursts of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride.”
It has been truly humbling to see how, despite my weaknesses and shortcomings, the Lord continues to bless me and work through me every single day. One thing I have really come to learn on my mission is just how infinite the Savior’s infinite love and Atonement are. And I think that is the beauty of this gospel. Whether we’re two feet under or two hundred feet under, His hand is stretched out to us, and should we chose to take it, He will lift us up and above our sins and our weaknesses. He will lift us to a level of joy that could not be found anywhere else.
This gospel truly is a gospel of joy. I’ve seen it, I’ve felt it, and I know it’s true. I’m just beyond grateful for the opportunity I had to bring this joyous message to the world. I love the Lord, I love the people, and even though I’m flying home this weekend, my heart will always be in Japan.
ๆใใๅ่ใ、ใใใฐ
Elder Sadler
1-5. Takaoๅฑฑ last week
6. Decisions decisions
7. Taco Party
8-9. Finally got to fulfill a dream and do kendo in Japan
10. Finally said goodbye to my noble stallion
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