Dear family,
Well, I've learned a lot and still have a long way to go. I'm actually having a bit of a hard time just because internet proselyting is so different than anything anyone here has done so no one quite knows what's going on. I feel like a greenie all over again haha. It is hard. There are so many different things that I didn't take into consideration....like the fact that there are a lot of creepers on the internet, people have a lot less inhibition when it comes to asking questions, we deal with a lot more deep doctrine, and its hard to know if the spirit is reaching them through the computer. We can use the internet to find talks and quotes to teach people and to research things, so I feel like I'm coming out of the stone ages and back into the 21st century. It's a strange feeling!
You know, as I think about the events that have gotten me here, I can't help but wonder why I am where I am sometimes. I've had strong spiritual impressions that I cannot deny, and yet it still gets hard and the doubt and fear begin to set in, making me question where I am in my life right now. That's a horrible tool that Satan uses. I was reading one of my favorite talks by Elder Holland and as an answer to my prayers, I read this quote,
"With any major decision there are cautions and considerations to make, but once there has been illumination, beware the temptation to retreat from a good thing. If it was right when you prayed about it and trusted in it and lived for it, it is right now. Don't give up when the pressure mounts. Certainly don't give in to that being who is bent on the destruction of your happiness. Face your doubts. Master your fears. 'Cast not away therefore your confidence.' Stay the course and see the beauty of life unfold for you."
I know that is true in all aspects of life. How easy it is to give up or give in when things get hard. There are always better days ahead and with Jesus Christ, there can even be better days right now. We don't have to wait for the future to find peace, hope, faith, and happiness. It is available to us now. I'm grateful to be a missionary and to be spreading the good news of the gospel every hour of every day!
Lots of Love,
Sister Stringer
