Hey, Hungary!
Life is good. And I don't mean that in the mundane it's-been-an-okay-day-so-far sort of way. I mean that about living in general, and living wholeheartedly. The gospel is such an incredible blessing that helps me know even through all the junk this world has to offer, there is still good, and it shines brighter because of everything that is dark.
I had such a lovely evening tonight. you know those people who just see the world with such a unique perspective that everything they say and do just leaves a little fingerprint on your heart? And while you're with them, you know they care what's happening/ what's going on with you? Because Cousin Johanna is one of those most beautiful humans.
She came and fetched me for a walk tonight, completely out of the blue, and we had the most delightful time. We made our way over to Martin Park and simultaneously had the brilliant idea to swing on the swings and just talk about things and boys and just life (hence the opening mantra). There were times when we were talking about some pretty heavy stuff, but we both agreed on two things: (1) the atonement makes everything okay, and (2) once you realize you're a child of God, things get so much easier. Which doesn't mean you aren't ever goiong to encounter any trials in your life, because you will, but you get to understand that what you go through doesn't define who you are, it's what you do with it that does.
We also talked about other things, like school and friends, and I told her about some of the hard stuff I went through in high school that I don't really like to mention all that much (or even at all), but it just so good just to talk. I love that we can do that with our family; just talk about things that mean a lot to us and know that they won't be brushed aside or blown off. I love that we can just bring the gospel right in to any conversation and recognize what a blessing it is in our lives, because it is.
I am SO grateful for a loving Heavenly Father who sent us here to learn, and who gave us families. I am so grateful for a Savior who suffered all kinds of pain, even death, just so I could live again. And I am so grateful for the incredible patience they both have in helping to make me in to the best me I can be. Heaven is so kind to us all. We just have to open our eyes and see it.
Hurrah for Israel!!! Hurrah for the gospel! And hurrah for missionaries like my best friend-sister who sacrifice so much of their time to help others feel this love I'm feeling right now. You're really changing the world out there. Keep up the good work.
Love, America
