Thursday, April 3, 2014
Forty-eight: April 2, 2014 Genova
Its been an interesting week.
WE REACHED OUR GOAL! We had 25 lessons and we found 6 new investigators! This last week was sooo tiring. We fasted, and we prayed every hour. We really got out there. I talked to people. We just didn't give up. We did it!
Now it's transfer time, and Heavenly Father decided that Genova doesn't need sorelle right now, so the Genova 1 sorelle are gone, just anziani. So that means Sorella Carlock has been transferred.
I'm going to Vicenza! Its across the country. I think Genova is the furthest south I've been. There is an American naval base in Vicenza, which means there are 2 wards: American and Italian. WHICH MEANS 6 hours of church every Sunday- I'll be teaching in Italian and English. Weird.
After 11 months (11 month mark was yesterday) of being junior companion, I am now senior companion. The zone leader couldn't pronounce my companion's name...I think it starts with a W. I'm a little nervous because its 2 wards, more responsibility, and I have to get my REALLY HEAVY suitcases across the country...
Look, when you come here, fill a medium sized suitcases with necessities and put it in a big suitcase. I will need another suitcase to even out the weight. You can wear my clothes and my shoes. Pack LIGHT and bring an empty bag...please!!!
ANYWAY
We went over to lunch at a member's house...plates of food in front of us, what's that? Tripe. I ate it. I had cow stomach in my human stomach...I liked it. It was good. And odd. And.....I don't know. Interesting experience. My companion didn't know until after and I told her and she said, 'WHAT? I thought it was fish!'. Maybe I shouldn't have told her, ha ha.
Anyway again, so I'm leaving. To have one last hoorah, we're going to Camogli (look it up, it should be beautiful). It's a city, like Nervi, on the ocean. We'll have some good pics next week.
I don't know what else to talk about. I still haven't gotten the package, but I'm sure it'll come. How are you all doing??
---
About the produce here. I think it's good because of the climate and because its just untouched. Nature runs its course and we enjoy. Everything in the States is sanitary or up to some standard. We just need to leave it all alone and enjoy God's creations; that's my hippy schpiel...
---
Well....this has been another week full of great news. I don't even have the capacity to express my thanks to Heavenly Father for the blessings He has given us.
It's funny, because when I am feeling down, and a fleeting thought crosses my mind, like I want to go home, one of the things that 'keeps me here' is this thought: well, I can't go yet because these months have been paid for, I'll wait until the end of this month. Of course, I would NEVER do it, but you know how our minds work when we are feeling discouraged.
It's all covered. Even if I wanted to, WHICH I DON'T, I cAn't come home now! All of the sacrifices, all of the love and support. All of the prayers and blessings and trials and gifts and hope and light. All of it. I am so grateful to Heavenly Father. All of the people who helped pay.....I just don't even know what to say. thank you seems so miniscule. I am sooo grateful.- I'm just going to have to keep going and keep working and maybe that can help show my gratitude. I don't know what to say...
Heavenly Father loves us sooo much. He really wants to bless us. He is a loving, kind, present, giving Father. I know it. I feel it. I know it's true.
As I prepare to leave Genova, where I have been for more than half of my missionary service so far, I feel a spirit of peace and calm. It says in Preach My Gospel ''try to leave your area better than you found it''. I have done that here. I've really helped...because, and only because, I have been learning to work through the Lord. I've really been trying to submit my will and do the intelligent thing. I can walk away from a long 6 months and say, ''Genova is better now and I did my part''.
I know that there is always more to do. Vicenza is where I am supposed to be. I am soooo....not scared, but worried....that I won't be able to continue doing finding and being a good example of obedience to this younger sister. That scares me, I don't want to negatively effect her work. but I'll do my best, because I'm not going to be doing it alone anymore. I'm doing this with Christ, I'm doing His work, with Him, for Him, because of Him....who'd've thunk it??? I'm getting my head on straight. I'm going to do things the right way-
I am so happy. So ready to go and do. I love you all. I love you all soooo much. Know that you are prayed for and taken care of. God, your Father, loves YOU! Don't you know??
Be good
Keep praying
I am so excited to listen to our Prophet and all other church leaders. We will be connected, watching listening and learning together. Be prepared. Take notes!!!!
I love you
Until next week from Vicenza
Sorella "L." Carlock
WE REACHED OUR GOAL! We had 25 lessons and we found 6 new investigators! This last week was sooo tiring. We fasted, and we prayed every hour. We really got out there. I talked to people. We just didn't give up. We did it!
Now it's transfer time, and Heavenly Father decided that Genova doesn't need sorelle right now, so the Genova 1 sorelle are gone, just anziani. So that means Sorella Carlock has been transferred.
I'm going to Vicenza! Its across the country. I think Genova is the furthest south I've been. There is an American naval base in Vicenza, which means there are 2 wards: American and Italian. WHICH MEANS 6 hours of church every Sunday- I'll be teaching in Italian and English. Weird.
After 11 months (11 month mark was yesterday) of being junior companion, I am now senior companion. The zone leader couldn't pronounce my companion's name...I think it starts with a W. I'm a little nervous because its 2 wards, more responsibility, and I have to get my REALLY HEAVY suitcases across the country...
Look, when you come here, fill a medium sized suitcases with necessities and put it in a big suitcase. I will need another suitcase to even out the weight. You can wear my clothes and my shoes. Pack LIGHT and bring an empty bag...please!!!
ANYWAY
We went over to lunch at a member's house...plates of food in front of us, what's that? Tripe. I ate it. I had cow stomach in my human stomach...I liked it. It was good. And odd. And.....I don't know. Interesting experience. My companion didn't know until after and I told her and she said, 'WHAT? I thought it was fish!'. Maybe I shouldn't have told her, ha ha.
Anyway again, so I'm leaving. To have one last hoorah, we're going to Camogli (look it up, it should be beautiful). It's a city, like Nervi, on the ocean. We'll have some good pics next week.
I don't know what else to talk about. I still haven't gotten the package, but I'm sure it'll come. How are you all doing??
---
About the produce here. I think it's good because of the climate and because its just untouched. Nature runs its course and we enjoy. Everything in the States is sanitary or up to some standard. We just need to leave it all alone and enjoy God's creations; that's my hippy schpiel...
---
Well....this has been another week full of great news. I don't even have the capacity to express my thanks to Heavenly Father for the blessings He has given us.
It's funny, because when I am feeling down, and a fleeting thought crosses my mind, like I want to go home, one of the things that 'keeps me here' is this thought: well, I can't go yet because these months have been paid for, I'll wait until the end of this month. Of course, I would NEVER do it, but you know how our minds work when we are feeling discouraged.
It's all covered. Even if I wanted to, WHICH I DON'T, I cAn't come home now! All of the sacrifices, all of the love and support. All of the prayers and blessings and trials and gifts and hope and light. All of it. I am so grateful to Heavenly Father. All of the people who helped pay.....I just don't even know what to say. thank you seems so miniscule. I am sooo grateful.- I'm just going to have to keep going and keep working and maybe that can help show my gratitude. I don't know what to say...
Heavenly Father loves us sooo much. He really wants to bless us. He is a loving, kind, present, giving Father. I know it. I feel it. I know it's true.
As I prepare to leave Genova, where I have been for more than half of my missionary service so far, I feel a spirit of peace and calm. It says in Preach My Gospel ''try to leave your area better than you found it''. I have done that here. I've really helped...because, and only because, I have been learning to work through the Lord. I've really been trying to submit my will and do the intelligent thing. I can walk away from a long 6 months and say, ''Genova is better now and I did my part''.
I know that there is always more to do. Vicenza is where I am supposed to be. I am soooo....not scared, but worried....that I won't be able to continue doing finding and being a good example of obedience to this younger sister. That scares me, I don't want to negatively effect her work. but I'll do my best, because I'm not going to be doing it alone anymore. I'm doing this with Christ, I'm doing His work, with Him, for Him, because of Him....who'd've thunk it??? I'm getting my head on straight. I'm going to do things the right way-
I am so happy. So ready to go and do. I love you all. I love you all soooo much. Know that you are prayed for and taken care of. God, your Father, loves YOU! Don't you know??
Be good
Keep praying
I am so excited to listen to our Prophet and all other church leaders. We will be connected, watching listening and learning together. Be prepared. Take notes!!!!
I love you
Until next week from Vicenza
Sorella "L." Carlock
Forty-seven: March 26, 2014 Genova
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR MOMMY
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!
happy birthday!!!!
How was it? I'm sorry I didnt email you last week to congratulate you!
What did you do?
--
First, I didn't get the contacts. That customs charge was for the shirts. So I don't have the contacts and card yet. We shall see soon. Dont worry about it though!
i got my new retainer. its a thin transparent plastic kind and I like it a lot! It isn't a correcting/straightening retainer but it will keep my teeth from shifting even more, and they're not that bad, they're better than before at least. All good things-
This week, is 'celestial week'. President has done a week where we all were really trying to consecrate the week...but this week its our choice. We're going all in. We are all in. Our goal for lessons this week is 25---that's a lot. Standard of Excellence says 15...we can do 25. We have taught 7 already, 2 more tonight, and the rest of the week is packed. We are going to do it because we need to improve the area, help others to know the truth, and finish the transfer with a bang. Its good all around.
I even did some finding! I talked to people, I just went up and asked them a gospel based question and it felt good. We had been praying and fasting and that help really did it. I'm not going to try to do anything on my own anymore; it doesn't work that way. It shouldn't work that way. After all, it isn't my work. I'm learning that now. I'm doing it now!
Its been good.
So, I am really glad that you got the email from Sorella Fava. I love her so much. She offered to have you all spend a night or two here when you come. What do you think? There is a best western or something, we could do half and half. I think you'll want to spend a few days here in Genova. I know I might want to show you a few things.
What other things have you thought of?
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR FIXING MY CARD! It is soo great because I think I can pick up the platter today! I'll try at least. Then next week, if you want, I can send a picture. or you can wait til you come, I dont know.
--
There isn't much else to say. I am so excited for General Conference. I feel like it means so much more as a missionary because I'm in it, I'm doing it. I'm so much more involved. I want to continue that when I go home. Almost 11 months. Transfer are next week. I have no idea what will happen, I just know that I want to keep going and that is what counts.
---
Thank you so much for your email.
Last week you sent me a little picture that says, start each day with a grateful heart and Ive been trying that too-
I do something I like to call grateful prayers, when I just pray only expressing grattitude, just to show that there are so many things God has done for me, and that I see His hand and am grateful.
Thank you for the excerpt about ebeneezers.- it is so true. I cant even think about how different of a person I am. I am truly changed.
Mommy, please don't be hurt for the things of the past. Don't be sad for the things that I have experienced. I am not sad. I am better because of them.
I was talking to Sorella Harward on the bus as we often do, and she said sometimes God lets us do something once and completely mess it up so that when we do it the next time we know how to do it right. Elder Holland backs that up to with this Mormon message. ...
http://www.mormonchannel.org/video/mormon-messages?v=2714780496001
With my life, for example, when I was engaged, it was a disaster. I was a complete mess thinking that I knew everything and I would be ok. It turned out to be one of the most awful experiences ever....BUT, there is hope!
Because I have done it before, because I messed up, because I was prepared (slightly) for that kind of commitment, I can do it again. Some of the things...beh...all of the things in my life have prepared me to do the right things when the RIGHT MOMENT COMES!
Like Elder Holland says, sometimes we have to do the wrong thing so that we dont doubt when we're on the right road. He wants us to get on the right road and be sure!!!
I know this is true and real. The Spirit testified this to me. Do not be sad for my life. It set me on the right path and now I know with the utmost certainty that it is the right road.
You said that the good things of my life dont cancel out the bad, but they do! I am clean. Those moments are gone and they have not only disappeared, but they have been for MY GOOD. I am pure and clean and new and good and whole. That is the promise of the Gospel, of the Plan. I know it is true. I am living it and teaching it. I am a good missionary. I am not perfect, but I am trying to be better every day. I am a good person.
I love you all. You are my support and my strength. I love your letters. They sustain me and keep me going. I miss you...but only because I just want to tell you all of these great things and share these experiences with you. You can't be here physically yet, but I'll see you soon enough. Too soon, I think ha ha. I'm not so sure I wouldn't extend if they changed that too....
You are special children of God and He answers my prayers for you and your prayers as well. Keep going. Keep seeking Him in your lives. He knows you and wants to help you.
I love you and I know that we are an eternal family.
Don't give up. We can do this. We can do this together...from opposite sides of the world.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR MOMMY
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!
happy birthday!!!!
How was it? I'm sorry I didnt email you last week to congratulate you!
What did you do?
--
First, I didn't get the contacts. That customs charge was for the shirts. So I don't have the contacts and card yet. We shall see soon. Dont worry about it though!
i got my new retainer. its a thin transparent plastic kind and I like it a lot! It isn't a correcting/straightening retainer but it will keep my teeth from shifting even more, and they're not that bad, they're better than before at least. All good things-
This week, is 'celestial week'. President has done a week where we all were really trying to consecrate the week...but this week its our choice. We're going all in. We are all in. Our goal for lessons this week is 25---that's a lot. Standard of Excellence says 15...we can do 25. We have taught 7 already, 2 more tonight, and the rest of the week is packed. We are going to do it because we need to improve the area, help others to know the truth, and finish the transfer with a bang. Its good all around.
I even did some finding! I talked to people, I just went up and asked them a gospel based question and it felt good. We had been praying and fasting and that help really did it. I'm not going to try to do anything on my own anymore; it doesn't work that way. It shouldn't work that way. After all, it isn't my work. I'm learning that now. I'm doing it now!
Its been good.
So, I am really glad that you got the email from Sorella Fava. I love her so much. She offered to have you all spend a night or two here when you come. What do you think? There is a best western or something, we could do half and half. I think you'll want to spend a few days here in Genova. I know I might want to show you a few things.
What other things have you thought of?
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR FIXING MY CARD! It is soo great because I think I can pick up the platter today! I'll try at least. Then next week, if you want, I can send a picture. or you can wait til you come, I dont know.
--
There isn't much else to say. I am so excited for General Conference. I feel like it means so much more as a missionary because I'm in it, I'm doing it. I'm so much more involved. I want to continue that when I go home. Almost 11 months. Transfer are next week. I have no idea what will happen, I just know that I want to keep going and that is what counts.
---
Thank you so much for your email.
Last week you sent me a little picture that says, start each day with a grateful heart and Ive been trying that too-
I do something I like to call grateful prayers, when I just pray only expressing grattitude, just to show that there are so many things God has done for me, and that I see His hand and am grateful.
Thank you for the excerpt about ebeneezers.- it is so true. I cant even think about how different of a person I am. I am truly changed.
Mommy, please don't be hurt for the things of the past. Don't be sad for the things that I have experienced. I am not sad. I am better because of them.
I was talking to Sorella Harward on the bus as we often do, and she said sometimes God lets us do something once and completely mess it up so that when we do it the next time we know how to do it right. Elder Holland backs that up to with this Mormon message. ...
http://www.mormonchannel.org/video/mormon-messages?v=2714780496001
With my life, for example, when I was engaged, it was a disaster. I was a complete mess thinking that I knew everything and I would be ok. It turned out to be one of the most awful experiences ever....BUT, there is hope!
Because I have done it before, because I messed up, because I was prepared (slightly) for that kind of commitment, I can do it again. Some of the things...beh...all of the things in my life have prepared me to do the right things when the RIGHT MOMENT COMES!
Like Elder Holland says, sometimes we have to do the wrong thing so that we dont doubt when we're on the right road. He wants us to get on the right road and be sure!!!
I know this is true and real. The Spirit testified this to me. Do not be sad for my life. It set me on the right path and now I know with the utmost certainty that it is the right road.
You said that the good things of my life dont cancel out the bad, but they do! I am clean. Those moments are gone and they have not only disappeared, but they have been for MY GOOD. I am pure and clean and new and good and whole. That is the promise of the Gospel, of the Plan. I know it is true. I am living it and teaching it. I am a good missionary. I am not perfect, but I am trying to be better every day. I am a good person.
I love you all. You are my support and my strength. I love your letters. They sustain me and keep me going. I miss you...but only because I just want to tell you all of these great things and share these experiences with you. You can't be here physically yet, but I'll see you soon enough. Too soon, I think ha ha. I'm not so sure I wouldn't extend if they changed that too....
You are special children of God and He answers my prayers for you and your prayers as well. Keep going. Keep seeking Him in your lives. He knows you and wants to help you.
I love you and I know that we are an eternal family.
Don't give up. We can do this. We can do this together...from opposite sides of the world.
A lovely note from a lovely sorella in Italia - love crosses the ocean...heart to heart
Some words to introduce myself....am a sister of the LDS Church in Genova Italia.... I had a beautiful day with the two young missionaries - we were invited by a "new contact" nice lady of about my age....over 75. She prepared for us a wonderful lunch as she understood that sister Carlock likes "ravioli" (ma anche arrosto buonissimo e fragole con gelato!!). We indeed enjoyed our staying together without feeling any difference of age !!!! The two young missionaries were smiling enjoying and in good health and in high spirit. I can assure you this is really true !!!!!!!! They send you their love and a hug waiting for wednesday to come......Hoping to meet you sometimes have my best regards. Paola Fava
Forty-five: March 12, 2014 Genova
Hi. How are you?
Is it starting to be spring there like it is here?
I'm not wearing a jacket. It's great.
Whats new? What have you been up to?
You know what, I forgot to email you last week. I didn't forget but I forgot to email you about Liam. I'm sorry. How are you doing?
This week has been a rough week...just completely draining and I've had a rough time...more internally than externally.
Then I come to do internet and its been an explosion of strengthening words, miracles, expressions of love, etc. It definitely helps. It does.
Sometimes I guess life needs to be hard...men are that they might have joy, but if men hadn't fallen and experiencing pain...they wouldn't know love and peace...so here I am, learning joy and peace! Ha ha
So I took Wes Avery's advice and I have been trying to find things to keep from after-the-mission trophies, I guess.
I bought Alice in Wonderland and I am getting it rebound..so that I can read it with Eva, and then eventually to my children as a children's bedtime book.
I am also trying to find little handcrafted or ...just personal things that will make me feel happy I served here and make me enjoy it. Everything is fairly cheap though...except shoes and clothes...when it comes to price for all of these things. Meno male.
I'm reading the part in your email that talks about your summer schedule and I'm looking at the dates and thinking ''thats all wrong, there is no 27th month''. Ha ha, in Europe the do day then month and so I was thinking ''backwards'' I guess. There are little things like that that make it all the more interesting.
For your 2 different programs. I don't know what to tell you either. I would say the one that causes less strain...but that's just me.. You have so much to do already, maybe taking the calmer class will help you. Just pray and 'go with your gut'. I wish I was there to sit and talk to you about all of these things.
I have a few quesitons.
If Tanner is going to be in school in the fall, he'll be in school when you need to come pick me up. How are we going to do that?
I also have a question about my face. I dont want to have giant pores on my nose...makeup.it sucks, but is so great.
Are there any good cleansing tricks to help me shrink my pores and clean them out well?
Let me know
Well I dont have much to say. Im going to keep going. My companion is really helping me, just getting down to the core and walking with me, if you know what I mean-
I'm going to get through this because I have to...in the sense that I can't just let it go. I am not a perfect missionary...I dont do street contacting/forever finding. I am not filled with charity in the way that I would like to be..I can't just blurt out, ''there is a living prophet today''. I wish I was better and I pray every day to be filled with charity and love and courage. I really, REALLY want to get better though, and for that I cannot give up. I have to keep going. I know I can be better. I just have to act-..and thats where I'm stumped. I just have to try.
So this is where I am right now. I'm really getting down to all the crevices of my soul ha ha, and I'm getting it all out there this week, or at least it feels that way. I know I am not alone. I know there is so much love and support and guidance. I'm going to be really changed after this whole process. It'll be worth it.
My new journal is going really great. and my 'keepsake' journal is coming along too. I have received a lot of revelation and I'm putting them in that journal so that I can remember everything.
You know...(even before I came out and especially now) I dont know the full reason for why I am here...but that's ok. I'll know at the end. I'm learning patience and humility...and its going to be great. Dont give up on me though ha ha.
I know that God lives. I know it. I know Jesus, the Christ, knows exactly how I feel and that is comforting
>speaking of Jesus, how can we prepare as a family to enjoy Easter more fully? What can we study. I've been reading in Jesus the Christ and it really opened my eyes.
study plan!?
Thank you for your emails and the song and your words, love, and prayers. Thank you.
---
About Lucy, we went to their house on Sunday and I forgot my camera. I'll get a picture though, dont you worry. She is just sweet as can be, bold in a little girl kind of way, smart, fun. We played some game of cups together and I just ....I just love her.
The people...Italy is intense and crazy and so much full of sin and sadness...but the people, the good and honest people make it worth it.
---
Today we are going to Nervi again, but this time to a different part. it's beautiful.
...
I'm losing weight! My double chin from pasta is going away. No more pasta here on Via Cantore! Not worth it. Plus the fruit stand guy where we buy our produce gives us extra fruit and veggies for free sooo...can't complain here.
I'm sorry for all of the snow, but like you said..snow is melting, spring is coming....Easter is coming soon, and General Conference..best part of the year. There is hope yet! Ha ha.
I love you all-..I'm sorry my email is all jubbly today- I'm fine. I promise. Sometimes you just have to purge a little, get all of the gunk out and then its ok. I'm getting the gunk out of my character. It's great! ...it will be ha ha.
I love you
I love hearing from you, every little thing. All of it.
I know that this is the work of the Lord and I know it is true and just.
This is life eternal. This, like Tanney says, is REAL life. I get it now.
I know we are children of God and that He wants us all to simply be happy, follow His plan, and eventually return to Him. This is what its all about.
Keep smiling
Keep going
As Dory says, and Sorella Harward and McCann, just keep swimming.
It can only get better.
Sorella Carlock
Is it starting to be spring there like it is here?
I'm not wearing a jacket. It's great.
Whats new? What have you been up to?
You know what, I forgot to email you last week. I didn't forget but I forgot to email you about Liam. I'm sorry. How are you doing?
This week has been a rough week...just completely draining and I've had a rough time...more internally than externally.
Then I come to do internet and its been an explosion of strengthening words, miracles, expressions of love, etc. It definitely helps. It does.
Sometimes I guess life needs to be hard...men are that they might have joy, but if men hadn't fallen and experiencing pain...they wouldn't know love and peace...so here I am, learning joy and peace! Ha ha
So I took Wes Avery's advice and I have been trying to find things to keep from after-the-mission trophies, I guess.
I bought Alice in Wonderland and I am getting it rebound..so that I can read it with Eva, and then eventually to my children as a children's bedtime book.
I am also trying to find little handcrafted or ...just personal things that will make me feel happy I served here and make me enjoy it. Everything is fairly cheap though...except shoes and clothes...when it comes to price for all of these things. Meno male.
I'm reading the part in your email that talks about your summer schedule and I'm looking at the dates and thinking ''thats all wrong, there is no 27th month''. Ha ha, in Europe the do day then month and so I was thinking ''backwards'' I guess. There are little things like that that make it all the more interesting.
For your 2 different programs. I don't know what to tell you either. I would say the one that causes less strain...but that's just me.. You have so much to do already, maybe taking the calmer class will help you. Just pray and 'go with your gut'. I wish I was there to sit and talk to you about all of these things.
I have a few quesitons.
If Tanner is going to be in school in the fall, he'll be in school when you need to come pick me up. How are we going to do that?
I also have a question about my face. I dont want to have giant pores on my nose...makeup.it sucks, but is so great.
Are there any good cleansing tricks to help me shrink my pores and clean them out well?
Let me know
Well I dont have much to say. Im going to keep going. My companion is really helping me, just getting down to the core and walking with me, if you know what I mean-
I'm going to get through this because I have to...in the sense that I can't just let it go. I am not a perfect missionary...I dont do street contacting/forever finding. I am not filled with charity in the way that I would like to be..I can't just blurt out, ''there is a living prophet today''. I wish I was better and I pray every day to be filled with charity and love and courage. I really, REALLY want to get better though, and for that I cannot give up. I have to keep going. I know I can be better. I just have to act-..and thats where I'm stumped. I just have to try.
So this is where I am right now. I'm really getting down to all the crevices of my soul ha ha, and I'm getting it all out there this week, or at least it feels that way. I know I am not alone. I know there is so much love and support and guidance. I'm going to be really changed after this whole process. It'll be worth it.
My new journal is going really great. and my 'keepsake' journal is coming along too. I have received a lot of revelation and I'm putting them in that journal so that I can remember everything.
You know...(even before I came out and especially now) I dont know the full reason for why I am here...but that's ok. I'll know at the end. I'm learning patience and humility...and its going to be great. Dont give up on me though ha ha.
I know that God lives. I know it. I know Jesus, the Christ, knows exactly how I feel and that is comforting
>speaking of Jesus, how can we prepare as a family to enjoy Easter more fully? What can we study. I've been reading in Jesus the Christ and it really opened my eyes.
study plan!?
Thank you for your emails and the song and your words, love, and prayers. Thank you.
---
About Lucy, we went to their house on Sunday and I forgot my camera. I'll get a picture though, dont you worry. She is just sweet as can be, bold in a little girl kind of way, smart, fun. We played some game of cups together and I just ....I just love her.
The people...Italy is intense and crazy and so much full of sin and sadness...but the people, the good and honest people make it worth it.
---
Today we are going to Nervi again, but this time to a different part. it's beautiful.
...
I'm losing weight! My double chin from pasta is going away. No more pasta here on Via Cantore! Not worth it. Plus the fruit stand guy where we buy our produce gives us extra fruit and veggies for free sooo...can't complain here.
I'm sorry for all of the snow, but like you said..snow is melting, spring is coming....Easter is coming soon, and General Conference..best part of the year. There is hope yet! Ha ha.
I love you all-..I'm sorry my email is all jubbly today- I'm fine. I promise. Sometimes you just have to purge a little, get all of the gunk out and then its ok. I'm getting the gunk out of my character. It's great! ...it will be ha ha.
I love you
I love hearing from you, every little thing. All of it.
I know that this is the work of the Lord and I know it is true and just.
This is life eternal. This, like Tanney says, is REAL life. I get it now.
I know we are children of God and that He wants us all to simply be happy, follow His plan, and eventually return to Him. This is what its all about.
Keep smiling
Keep going
As Dory says, and Sorella Harward and McCann, just keep swimming.
It can only get better.
Sorella Carlock
Forty-four: March 5, 2014 Genova
Ciao Bellissimi
How are you?
Well I have had some interesting experiences this week. We had to go back to Milano to pick up Sorella Harward's permesso. We did it in a day. We went, not having planned, not knowing what to expect.
Miracles?
We just barely made the train to Milano...by seconds. (the next one came in probably 5 hours)
We made it to the questura (permesso office), just in time to be the last person
We finished in time to take a train 2 hours earlier than originally planned
We did it, leap-of-faith...and we were able to accomplish everything and more.
Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow. They toil not, nor do they spin...
He has control of everything. He protected us, helped us, guided us that whole trip. He isn't going to let us fail if we leave it all up to Him. When I said we didn't plan, it was kind of just like 'well, this is the only day we can do it, we need to just go. Let's just go.' and so we did! And now, our testimonies are strengthened.
Well for this week there is:
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue
Something old: I did a lot of searching in my journal while my companion was sick and I looked at all of the my old entries. There were a lot of spiritually empowering things. I started quoting myself and I put a bunch of sticky notes in my closet, on the walls reminding me of the spiritual insights I have gained.
Something new: I am re-starting a lot of things this week.
I have received the new clothes that you sent
I am about to start a new journal, I am 2 entries away from finishing my old one
Its the beginning of a new month
I am 10 months in the mission
I finished the Book of Mormon and I have now officially started reading, in personal study too, il Libro di Mormon. Immersion in the language.
I am starting to live a new kind of discipleship...the right kind. I am learning and studying how to be a real disciple of Christ....surrending my will, desires, dreams, thoughts, hopes, wants...all to Christ- it's hard, but its ....so worth it.
I am learing how to pray more personally.
I am eating less and more healthfully.
I am starting to exercise more.
Something borrowed: I have been given the opportunity to read this talk called the 4th Missionary...it has completely changed the way I think about how I serve, who I want to be, and why I am really here.
Something blue: In order to have a journal....I had to buy one. We went to the store and they only had...weird journals or journals with quotes about love...not exactly missionary appropriate. The only other plain journal they had...was blue! I want to try to write only in Italian in it. I am so excited to get started!
---
I had an interesting epiphany, diciamo (let's say), about water.
Ok so water is ...the source of life for plants, animals, humans. We need water to survive.
It offers no nutrional value..in the sense that yes, maybe it has vitamins and minerals...but thats it really right. Yet, we need water to survive, if we don't drink water...in 3 days, we will die.
It is pure, clear, life-giving.
Kind of like Christ. No He won't give you fortune or fame, you won't be great in the eyes of the world...yet, He is the life-giving water we all must drink from in order to live...truly live. Water is like Jesus Christ. maybe that connection has already been made, but its new to me.
SO KEEP DRINKING THE WATER!
--
We found a new investigator this week and we are really excited about teaching her. She is the mom of a member and has been prepared...of course. We are so ready to get back into work and to find others like her. We really want to help Genova grow and flourish. It has been a little bit of a sitting duck, so much potential but it hasn't been fully realized (realized in the Italian sense of the word: brought forth, so to say). We want to really get it going, and we've done a lot to really help it.
I am still here because God wants me to improve this city. It's a bit of calling to repentance for me and for the city I guess. I'm here for 6 months because He knows I can help! He wants this work to change me!
--
There is a little girl in our ward here...she is a little version of Jess. Pure, sweet, kind, Christ-like, a little outgoing in a sweet way. not feisty, what's the sweet version of feisty? Thats her.
Her name is Lucy...I love her! She is from Peru. We are having lunch with their family on Sunday and I'll see if maybe I can take my camera. You should see her. Oh, that family is so sweet. All of them.
---
Well, Mommy,it's your birthday soon.
I was thinking you might like a black and white print of Genova...to match the ones in our house.
Are you interested?
There is also a place that paints ceramics...I could have them make you a platter with something written and painted on it.
What can I get you?
Do you want anything?
I love you all.
This week will be a good week,
I am excited to really put into action what I have learned and to really serve with a full heart.
I know God lives. I know He loves us.
I know Christ is our Saviour and that He never leaves us alone.
I love you
I miss you
I pray for you
Stay strong
We are an eternal family
Sorella Carlock
PS -
I emailed Uncle Trev, I'll write Aunt Cynthia....this...its just so special
I talked to Sorella Dibb. I'll get a new retainer in the next few days.
I didnt get the contacts. We have a Zone Conference on the 17th so I should get them then
I am almost done with my journal. I wrote about that in the big email :)
I am trying to keep to exercising and better eating. It's working so far!
I feel good!
I'm a little sick but I'm taking medicine and I'll be ok.
Clothes fit and I look good!! :) thanks Mommy
Captain Moroni is totally your 'color'! You can do it! :)
--
WOW is TANNEY! What's he doing? He hasnt written me in weeks. Is he ok? Has he lost his head?
Is he happy?
I am so impressed by Eva and how charitable she is. I've been really working on charity, its a real struggle for me but Im getting there.
...about Dad,..thats just that. No worldly success can ever be enough. Success starts and ends in the home.
Meno male our family is tight.
I am so excited about your success and your epic jobs. You are doing great things! Wow. See? You're way cool!
---
I forgot to write in the big email.
I found Gone with the Wind...IN ITALIAN...I had to buy it. It was at an antique shop so it was only £6
maybe I'm a bad missionary...but I figured...you just cant pass that up.
what do you think?
I pray for you and hope that you are warm and happy.
keep keeping me updated!
I'll take some pictures today!
I love you more than even I know.
You are my mommy forever and I sing your lulabies in the shower to help me wind down at night. I figured that's ok because we're an eternal family so it's a manifestation of how God's plan works in our lives. ...maybe thats me bending the rules..I don't know.
I am happy.
I am warm.
I am trying to repent daily.
I am improving.
I am YOUR daughter and I love you
I am going to do what I came here to do.
I am going to be the best missionary I can be.
He lives! They lives!
I love you!
How are you?
Well I have had some interesting experiences this week. We had to go back to Milano to pick up Sorella Harward's permesso. We did it in a day. We went, not having planned, not knowing what to expect.
Miracles?
We just barely made the train to Milano...by seconds. (the next one came in probably 5 hours)
We made it to the questura (permesso office), just in time to be the last person
We finished in time to take a train 2 hours earlier than originally planned
We did it, leap-of-faith...and we were able to accomplish everything and more.
Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow. They toil not, nor do they spin...
He has control of everything. He protected us, helped us, guided us that whole trip. He isn't going to let us fail if we leave it all up to Him. When I said we didn't plan, it was kind of just like 'well, this is the only day we can do it, we need to just go. Let's just go.' and so we did! And now, our testimonies are strengthened.
Well for this week there is:
Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue
Something old: I did a lot of searching in my journal while my companion was sick and I looked at all of the my old entries. There were a lot of spiritually empowering things. I started quoting myself and I put a bunch of sticky notes in my closet, on the walls reminding me of the spiritual insights I have gained.
Something new: I am re-starting a lot of things this week.
I have received the new clothes that you sent
I am about to start a new journal, I am 2 entries away from finishing my old one
Its the beginning of a new month
I am 10 months in the mission
I finished the Book of Mormon and I have now officially started reading, in personal study too, il Libro di Mormon. Immersion in the language.
I am starting to live a new kind of discipleship...the right kind. I am learning and studying how to be a real disciple of Christ....surrending my will, desires, dreams, thoughts, hopes, wants...all to Christ- it's hard, but its ....so worth it.
I am learing how to pray more personally.
I am eating less and more healthfully.
I am starting to exercise more.
Something borrowed: I have been given the opportunity to read this talk called the 4th Missionary...it has completely changed the way I think about how I serve, who I want to be, and why I am really here.
Something blue: In order to have a journal....I had to buy one. We went to the store and they only had...weird journals or journals with quotes about love...not exactly missionary appropriate. The only other plain journal they had...was blue! I want to try to write only in Italian in it. I am so excited to get started!
---
I had an interesting epiphany, diciamo (let's say), about water.
Ok so water is ...the source of life for plants, animals, humans. We need water to survive.
It offers no nutrional value..in the sense that yes, maybe it has vitamins and minerals...but thats it really right. Yet, we need water to survive, if we don't drink water...in 3 days, we will die.
It is pure, clear, life-giving.
Kind of like Christ. No He won't give you fortune or fame, you won't be great in the eyes of the world...yet, He is the life-giving water we all must drink from in order to live...truly live. Water is like Jesus Christ. maybe that connection has already been made, but its new to me.
SO KEEP DRINKING THE WATER!
--
We found a new investigator this week and we are really excited about teaching her. She is the mom of a member and has been prepared...of course. We are so ready to get back into work and to find others like her. We really want to help Genova grow and flourish. It has been a little bit of a sitting duck, so much potential but it hasn't been fully realized (realized in the Italian sense of the word: brought forth, so to say). We want to really get it going, and we've done a lot to really help it.
I am still here because God wants me to improve this city. It's a bit of calling to repentance for me and for the city I guess. I'm here for 6 months because He knows I can help! He wants this work to change me!
--
There is a little girl in our ward here...she is a little version of Jess. Pure, sweet, kind, Christ-like, a little outgoing in a sweet way. not feisty, what's the sweet version of feisty? Thats her.
Her name is Lucy...I love her! She is from Peru. We are having lunch with their family on Sunday and I'll see if maybe I can take my camera. You should see her. Oh, that family is so sweet. All of them.
---
Well, Mommy,it's your birthday soon.
I was thinking you might like a black and white print of Genova...to match the ones in our house.
Are you interested?
There is also a place that paints ceramics...I could have them make you a platter with something written and painted on it.
What can I get you?
Do you want anything?
I love you all.
This week will be a good week,
I am excited to really put into action what I have learned and to really serve with a full heart.
I know God lives. I know He loves us.
I know Christ is our Saviour and that He never leaves us alone.
I love you
I miss you
I pray for you
Stay strong
We are an eternal family
Sorella Carlock
PS -
I emailed Uncle Trev, I'll write Aunt Cynthia....this...its just so special
I talked to Sorella Dibb. I'll get a new retainer in the next few days.
I didnt get the contacts. We have a Zone Conference on the 17th so I should get them then
I am almost done with my journal. I wrote about that in the big email :)
I am trying to keep to exercising and better eating. It's working so far!
I feel good!
I'm a little sick but I'm taking medicine and I'll be ok.
Clothes fit and I look good!! :) thanks Mommy
Captain Moroni is totally your 'color'! You can do it! :)
--
WOW is TANNEY! What's he doing? He hasnt written me in weeks. Is he ok? Has he lost his head?
Is he happy?
I am so impressed by Eva and how charitable she is. I've been really working on charity, its a real struggle for me but Im getting there.
...about Dad,..thats just that. No worldly success can ever be enough. Success starts and ends in the home.
Meno male our family is tight.
I am so excited about your success and your epic jobs. You are doing great things! Wow. See? You're way cool!
---
I forgot to write in the big email.
I found Gone with the Wind...IN ITALIAN...I had to buy it. It was at an antique shop so it was only £6
maybe I'm a bad missionary...but I figured...you just cant pass that up.
what do you think?
I pray for you and hope that you are warm and happy.
keep keeping me updated!
I'll take some pictures today!
I love you more than even I know.
You are my mommy forever and I sing your lulabies in the shower to help me wind down at night. I figured that's ok because we're an eternal family so it's a manifestation of how God's plan works in our lives. ...maybe thats me bending the rules..I don't know.
I am happy.
I am warm.
I am trying to repent daily.
I am improving.
I am YOUR daughter and I love you
I am going to do what I came here to do.
I am going to be the best missionary I can be.
He lives! They lives!
I love you!
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