My brother met the Elders in a hospital through a contact with my aunt. We invited them to come teach us. I felt a very warm feeling as I have since learned that the spirit was touching my heart as I learned from the messages they were teaching. On October 9, 2010 we were baptized.
There was a strong feeling that I should serve a mission. I had a desire to serve the Lord but I was confused with my decision. As I read the Book of Mormon 1 Nephi 3:7 the spirit touched my heart and encouraged me to make the right decision. I am thankful to my Heavenly Father that I am now serving.
Begin a missionary makes me very happy. I have found myself growing spiritually. I feel honored that I was given this great opportunity to serve. I have learned many things. I have had many special experiences in the mission field. After serving for a month my grandfather passed away. When I received the news I was shocked. I didn’t feel that I could ever feel better again. The pain was very significant. My grandfather had played an important role in my life. I missed him significantly. I asked myself, 'Why does everything bad happen to me'. After a few days I gained a greater understanding of God’s special plan for me. This is called the Plan of Salvation. I know that I can be with my grandparents and my mother again in the presence of Heavenly Father. I know that I will see them again. The gospel makes me happy and gives me peace. The gospel has blessed my family’s life as well.
I know that the restored gospel is true and that prophet Joseph Smith is the true prophet of the restoration. He restored the gospel in these the latter days. I have changed because of what I have learned. It helps me make correct choices. I know that Thomas S. Monson is the true living prophet today. The Book of Mormon is the true word of God. It changes lives. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen