May 4, 2009

Dearest Family, 5/4/2009

My heart is so sad to hear of the passing of Dorothy Crosby. I loved that woman, and feel so sad for Grandpa. Give him my love and tell him my prayers are with him. I know that our Heavenly Father is aware of him and also of Dorothy and that she is now experiencing more love than she has ever experienced. In Alma 40:11-14, we learn that we are all taken directly home to our Heavenly Father- I can only imagine what a loving, warm experience that must be. I am so grateful for the Gospel which gives us such an understanding of these things. We can feel sadness, of course, but also hope and understanding- and most importantly love and rest from our Heavenly Father. I am so grateful for my Savior who died for us so that we can overcome death. Our Savior Lives!

As for the work here in Rotterdam, on Tuesday, I received a strong impression that the forces of good and evil were mounting, and that opposition was coming our way- its so weird that you can sense those things on your mission- and sure enough, we saw more opposition this week than we have experienced on my mission so far. It was a tough week, but we are doing our best to stay happy and up-beat and just move forward. We are trying our best to be more obedient, more diligent, and to overlook the fact that we're both brand new at this :)

Of course, tomorrow marks my 6th month on my mission, which is crazy to think about- I can't believe its a third over. Time is flying by, and I can't imagine not being here serving the Lord in just one year. It really helps me to work that much harder- the time is short! I have had so many cool experiences with the members here in Rotterdam. They are so strong! Transfers are coming up next week, and I can't imagine leaving these people. I love them more than I ever thought I would. Of course, we never know what will happen, but that doesn't stop me from crying after the last Sunday before every transfer thinking about the possibility of leaving. I just love it here!

I love you all and hope you are all enjoying the springtime. I miss you!

Ik hou van jullie!

Love,
Zuster Cherie Gulliver