Miracles in the Driest Place on Earth: One week left in the "real world"

Where does the time go? As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, I have been thinking about my mission for as long as I can remember. I decided at a young age that nothing would get in the way of me serving the Lord--not my peers, not the world, not even myself.

It went from counting the years, to counting the months, to now counting the days. One week is all I have left before the biggest adventure of my life. People ask me how I feel about this. To be honest, I am apprehensive, as is everyone stepping into the unknown. But the mission is not a complete hole of mystery. If we work hard, it is promised that we will be protected, we will become better, our families will be blessed, and we will witness miracles.

These promises, however, don't fully cushion the blow of parting from loved ones. It is painful leaving those who have cherished you those tender years of childhood. Though they mean well, your friends will move on with their lives and the wheel of world will not slow down during your absence.

Now, don't take me for an overly dramatic fellow. I am often lighthearted and cheerful, but serious matters call for serious contemplation. How often do you get the chance to fully immerse your life for other people, to help them and yourself change to more glorious beings?

The sacrifice is well worth the blessings.

My heart is filled with gratitude as I being this exciting journey. Thank you to all those who have imparted their wisdom and love to me.

Here are some pics of the family!