Week 52- Welcome to the church of joy!!

 HOWZIT. Been a missionary for a flippin YEAR. What the crap.

Madalyn is now a member of the church of JOY YYYEEEHOOOOO!!! That was definitely the highlight of the week. Madalyn is the last in her family to get baptized and wow it has been the most miraculous and beautiful journey with the Stephens the past 4 transfers. They mean the absolute world to me. YEP still here in Stretford, I am starting to think they are going to build a statue of me here I basically am stuck here. But this area of Stretford has completely changed my life and brought me closer to Jesus Christ. Stretford (and the people here) are a testimony to me that this part of my mission is why I am a missionary at this time. God sent me on my mission to guide me to these people and experiences. I thank God everyday for sending me to Stretford be surrounded by so much joy! 

Okay... let's be real though. It has been a long time which means no change. I really love change, so it has been tough! I sometimes don't show that side of being a missionary. Mission's are not easy but I know that is exactly how they are supposed to be. If I could choose I would want everyone to go on a mission! It is a way to 100% rely upon our Savior Jesus Christ and He wants to bless us in return. Being here is a constant reminder that I cannot do anything, ABSOLUTELY ANYTHING without Him. We need Him. I promise everyone that when you feel discouraged, anger, envy, lonely, sad, disappointed, it is because He wants you to come to Him. And if you do, HE WILL strengthen you. I know it with my whole heart. So I guess this is my invitation to you... Sometimes when we are struggling, the last thing we want to do is go to church, read our scriptures, say our prayers, and honestly just endure through the hard times. But I invite you to use that time as an opportunity to come closer to Him. That is where the true blessings, true peace, and true joy come! Give it a try :) It has changed my perspective completely.

This week I went on two exchanges with two amazing sisters!! Being an STL is such a blessing. I have so much love for these sisters. Definitely a highlight was being with Sister Chhoeun from Cambodia. MY GOSH I wish you could all meet her. I will put a picture of this angel. She is just a rockstar and full of fire. We saw the craziest miracles together and I know it is because of her faith in our Savior Jesus Christ. She is still learning English and man I am just so proud of her.  She has grown so much since I first met her walking off the bus. She shared the strongest testimonies all day and just completely connected with everyone. Everyone needs a Sister Chhoeun!

ANYWHOOO Love you all. You know that right???? Cmon. You better by now, I say it every week. You are always in my prayers. I will give you all a million dollars if you email me with something to pray for for you! Or just email me honestly... I miss you all and would love to hear from you. I love you! But the Savior of the world loves you even more!!! BYYYYEEEE

Cheeeeeeers

Sister Smith