I have officially survived my first week here in Korea! It was very
difficult, but also very rewarding! Now that I am a bit more coherent
than the week before, I am going to try my best and summarize all that
has happened.
This past Saturday, I had the opportunity of attending a joint
mission conference in Seoul. One of the elders from the quorum of the
seventy spoke to us about the role of missionaries and how we can be
more effective. He truly reemphasized to me and my
companion that we need to open our mouths and speak. Now...Sis. Kim
does not have a problem with this, but I most certainly do. So my goal
for this next week is just open my mouth and go. I will keep you updated
on how that goes. Oh! I got to see cousin Sis. Blickenstaff
this past weekend! She look very well and knows a lot more Korean than
she thinks. We are not in the same zone, but we will see each other at
the next zone conference!
This coming week, one of our investigators (남경연) is going to get
baptized this Sunday! Sis. Kim and I were incredibly nervous because
Sister Nam Kyong Yon was a bit apprehensive about paying tithing because
she is on government assistance. Well, this past
week a miracle has happened and she told us that she will do whatever
God asks without hesitation. She has such a strong testimony of the
church and the Book of Mormon. Although she is 86 years old, she has
such a desire to read the Book of Mormon and so we
are going to teach her how to read! I cannot talk about this sister
enough, she has such a strong testimony and a heart of gold.
Another miracle that has occurred this week is that Sister Nam Kyon
Yon's daughter and son-in-law have also accepted the invitation to be
baptized! There date is December 22, 2013. Seriously, who could think of
a better way to celebrate Christmas than
with the baptisms of two people! I am so excited to be a part of their
special day. I will definitely take pictures and keep you guys updated
on their progress.
I am doing very well and my Korean is....getting better. I can say a
few things, but for now my lack of Korean ability is being used as an
advantage. My companion will literally ask people if I can practice
Korean with them, which then leads them to asking
why I am there. So, It is a great way to share the message and develop
my speaking abilities. Do not worry about my safety, Sis. Kim and I are
being very obedient and we are trying our best to stay away from
dangerous areas. Luckily. the area that I serve
in is fairly nice and we are mostly spending time with less active
members. I will keep my eyes open and definitely listen to the
promptings of the spirit.
It is so cold in Korea. There is something in the air
that makes the cold pierce through my one coat! Do not worry...I
will be buying a new coat this Thursday because we are going to the
temple! Also, I love the coats here. Do you remember
that puffy coat I hated in junior high? Well, those types of coats are
all the rage in Korea. Seriously, everyone looks like they are about to
climb Mount Everest, but in reality they are just walking to the subway.
It is just great!
I am eating very well...actually too well. Everyone in my area
loves sister missionaries and are very intent on feeding us. I have
never eaten so many meals in my entire life. Seriously, sisters here are
not losing weight, but gaining more to love. So
if you do not recognize me, let me know. Seriously, we are friends and
family...LET ME KNOW. I cannot emphasize that enough. My companion is
Korean and should tell me these things, but she is too nice and I love
her for it. I love you all and miss you so
much!!
Sis. Chao
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