Wednesday, September 5, 2012

And so it begins.

I left for Idaho this morning, and I must admit, I was heartbroken with the thought of leaving home. Last night I asked my brother in law to give me a blessing of comfort so that my departure wouldn't be so difficult. However, I still continued to be sad. Why? I lacked faith. I knew I'd be okay, but I continued to think negative. I prayed to my father in Heaven, and he answered. There was no doubt in my mind I wouldn't be okay out here in Idaho. It's been only one day of being away from home and I've already crossed so many things off my bucket list. Fly in a plane? Check! See the Hollywood sign? Check! Visit temple square? Check! Have in-n-out? Check! See some mountains? Check! And I've also witnessed my Heavenly Fathers love once again. 
 1st: As I checked my bags in at the airport, I was told my suitcase was 15 pounds over the free limit weight, which meant I'd have to pay an extra $50 or empty my suitcase a bit more (which would have been awful since I was in a packed airport). My dad began to collect the money when this young lady turns to me and offers to pay. I was stunned. Maybe she was kidding? Well, she wasn't. She followed with, "I've been in the same situation and I'd love to help," as she handed the lady at the front desk her credit card. I knew Heavenly Father had sent me an angel. I was so happy to know kind people really do exist. Even if they're complete strangers.  
2nd: This was my first time being in a plane so yes, I was freaked. (turns out they're not that bad) Well, thanks to my instincts & my young women medallion, I chose to sit next to a girl who seemed pretty nice. I wasn't expecting her to ask, "I couldn't help but notice your medallion. Are you on your way to BYU-I?" She then explained she was also heading up there for her freshman year. I was so glad that I wasn't left alone on that long flight. And since she was also a member, we had plenty to talk about so that I wouldn't notice the taking off of the plane. (which, again, isn't too bad.)
Last but not least: As I drove with a wonderful friend of mine to Idaho, I couldn't help but notice all the temples we passed through. And they all say the same thing, "Holiness to the Lord. The House of the Lord." I knew in that moment that this gospel, these temples, and my Heavenly Father love for me is the same anywhere. And I knew I wasn't alone. I have so many things inspiring me. And I will not give up. Not now, not tomorrow, not ever.