Light at the End of the Tunnel

Aloha Family and Friends!

 This week was another semi-slow one for us, but it was great nonetheless!Being online has been a challenge because the work has really slowed down. Coming from YSA wards on BYUH campus to no social interaction has been an interesting experience.  However, I really do love it still. I love my companion Sister Kaufusi.  We have fun together trying to make it exciting. The construction is almost finished at the Visitors' Center, and with it we expect more guests and visitors! There is a light at the end of the tunnel, for sure.

I don't have much time but I just wanted to share a little lesson that I learned this last week from a man that we met outside the Visitors' Center. He was probably in his 50's, and in a wheelchair waiting for his ride to come. He didn't have legs and was missing a few fingers. We started talking to him a little because he was all alone and learned that he was a convert, had served a mission and right after his mission he got very sick. His health had declined extremely and he was in and out of the hospital for years and years. He explained that because of his illness, he was unable to attend the temple for 30 years, and that that night was his first time back. He had so much gratitude in his heart and said that he had never cried so much in his life. After being at death's door and feeling so alone and questioning God for His illnesses, the most tears he shed were in His Holy House. That really stuck with me. I think that a lot of times we feel far away from God a midst our trials and challenges, but this man was a powerful example of the redeeming and infinite love that God has for each of us, His children. I can't even imagine the day that I will have the opportunity to be in God's presence again -- the thought to me is so sweet, so sacred. Just as this man felt as He entered the Lord's House after years and years of being away.

I love you all. Make someone smile today!

Sister Willardson