A common theme of my mission has been the inability to record my emotions, gratitude, and awe of my mission and the gospel. As I've approached the end of my mission, I've thought a lot about what I want my "last words" to be, but I've realized that words will never convey what I want them to. How can mere letters express the tears shed, the moments cherished, or the miracles experienced? It seems impossible.
What I can do, however, is live every day in a way that shows God my gratitude for the last 18 months. I hope that my actions, priorities, and love will portray what my words cannot. I have not deserved the past year and a half of my life, but I am overwhelmingly grateful for every ounce of support and for every person here and at home that has unknowingly changed my life. I'm grateful for quiet examples and for the men and women that live their lives in a pattern of humble service and devotion. God works mighty miracles through them, and it is incredible to witness and participate in.
I believe with all that is in me in the divinity of the Plan of Salvation. This life has a purpose far beyond our scope of understanding. I believe in our Savior Jesus Christ. He knows us and loves us and is intimately concerned with the details of our lives. The injustices of life will be worked out. I know that the scriptures bring us closer to God and open the doors to revelation if we will but study them. I know life to be challenging by beautiful and people to be inherently good if given the chance. I love the gospel, and to quote a man who knew what it was like to be an imperfect instrument in the hands of God, "Shall we not go on in so great a cause?"- Joseph Smith
I love you all!! See you soon. ;)
-Sister Bren Scadden