Week 9: Happiness Awaits

សួស្តីគ្រួសារ និងមិត្តភក្តិ! Today marks 2 months on the mission and my time at the MTC is coming to an end as I leave for Cambodia next week. Today was our last day of class and we have our last few days here to get packed and prepare before we fly out on Thursday morning. Everyone got their visas on Friday, so we are all officially going to the field together! Most of the elders and sisters were worried they weren't going to get them in time, but God answered our prayers! 

This past week was filled with goodbyes and this next week will be too, sadly. Last week Elder Forte and his district left and it was really sad to see them go, but I know they are all going to do amazing things on their missions. On Tuesday I walked with Elder Forte to the travel office and spent the last few moments with him before he got picked up to go to Orem. Some tears were shed as we said goodbye one last time, but I'm so excited to hear about his experiences during his time in Orem and when he gets to Ecuador. I know he is going to continue to grow every day and will have Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ by his side through it all. Next week, Sister Ainsworth is leaving for Tacoma on Tuesday and Elder Stark is leaving for Oakland on Wednesday. It is going to be really hard saying goodbye to them after spending these last couple of months together. I know it's just preparing me for many more sad goodbyes to come on my mission.

In our Tuesday night devotional, we had the opportunity to hear from Elder and Sister Eddy. One thing that really stuck with me was when Sister Eddy said, "More happiness awaits you than you have ever experienced" which made me realize what a blessing it is to be on my mission right now. I have already received so much happiness and have felt the spirit so much during my short time here at the MTC and it is hard to believe that I am just going to receive more and more. The other day I was looking at some photos from when my brother, Tanner, was on his mission in Cambodia. In one of the photos, he had the biggest smile on his face and it made me realize that there truly is so much happiness waiting for me over the next two years. I could not be more excited to finally be going to Cambodia next week and for all the many blessings and miracles to come.

As I leave for Cambodia next week, I have reflected on the amazing people I have met here at the MTC and all the amazing people in my life that have helped me get to this point. I can't wait to see all the amazing people I will meet these next two years. I know my Heavenly Father loves me and has a plan for me. I know that He loves all of you and has a plan for each and every one of you too. I invite all of you to think about the people in your life right now and the people that have impacted your life, whether it was in a big or small way. When you do, I know you will be able to see how much God truly loves you. I am so blessed to have all of you in my life and pray for all of you daily. I love all of you so much! See y'all in Cambodia!

Love,

Elder Mendenhall

📸