Hermana Millet is home! Come hear her speak Sunday Nomvember 30th at 11:00. 4505 S. Brian's Way (3420 W.). You are also welcome to stop by the house afterward to visit, 4415 S. 3234 W. 
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Monday, November 17, 2014
What does one say in the last letter home?
What does one say in the last letter home?
First of all I would like to send a big thank you to my mom, Pam Millet, for all she has done to help with my blog.
When it first began, I just wanted to have a way to share with friends and family my experiences from the mission. As I have written, my thoughts have really just been directed toward my family and it has been a way to personally process what I am experiencing and learning. At times I worry about if what I'm writing in this crazy hour we have to email makes sense or really expresses what I would want to share with the whole world, but it really has come to be a completely candid view of my experience in the mission. The good, the bad, and the beautiful.
Through all of the work that my mom has put in I have seen even more miracles than the ones that are seen in my letters. I have made friends that are now close to my heart and now serving their own missions, I have been able to share advice and feel connected to new missionaries coming into the mission, I have found querido amigos (dear friends) here in Argentina, and I hope I have been able to share my testimony with all. I hope that some of the experiences that I have had have been able to affect the lives of others and that the spirit has been able to testify of the truthfulness of this work and of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
All this is thanks to my best friend and my mom. She, my dad and my sister have written me every week of my mission without fail and it has been what has gotten me through the hard times and given me extra needed strength. I want to publically thank them for their love and support, for being such a big part of my mission and the opportunity I have had to bear my testimony to numerous others.
Thank you!
Second, big news for the week. On Thursday during companionship study I received a call from President Robertson indicating that there was a possibility that he would need to shut down my area. He asked about our progressing investigators and what my opinion was. My stomach sank as I stood from my chair and looked out the window at this beautiful city. My eyes went to the map on our wall marked with all of our menos activos (less actives), conversos (converts) and investigators, and as tears began to fill my eyes I told him the truth. Although I love this area and I love these people, they will be okay. They are not ready to be baptized in the coming weeks and if my companion is needed elsewhere, we could shut down Ramos. The next few days were a haze.
That night we got the confirming call that we would be shut down and leave to our new areas on Saturday. Friday morning we packed and then spent the day preparing our members, converts and investigators for the change and saying our goodbyes. Most of them didn't believe us or understand at first. They had been prepared for my departure on Thursday but we had assured them my companion would be staying. There were lots of tears and hugs, or really firm handshakes in some cases, and then we left.
Saturday morning after our devotional with Elder Christofferson, we headed to the church to receive our assignments. Hermana Urbanawiz is opening up Junin (CAMPO-YES!) with Hermana Leiva. She deserves it. She will love it. And Hermana Leiva will be soo great for her. I am in a trio with Hermana Medeyro and Hermana Durfee in Atalaya. They are wonderful, I already know them and I already know Atalaya. It's a weird feeling to be in middle land, not leaving quite yet, but not really part of the area; however, I know this is what the mission and the Lord needed. I am learning so much from these hermanas and know that I can still see miracles in these last few days. As I thought with sadness on the farewells I wasn't able to make and the asados that were not to be eaten I was reminded once again of my purpose. I am here to serve the Lord wherever I am called. I am so excited to give my all in these last few days and keep growing and learning.
Third, devotional with Elder Christofferson. It was amazing! I got to sit on the front row and eat up all of his wonderful words of advice. He gave us so much great insight into the atonement, teaching etc. but what touched me personally was his apostolic promise he pronounced upon us. It was incredible. It's impossible to describe the spirit that we felt as we listened to his words. As you know, I had a few weeks this transfer in which I really doubted whether I really had done all I could, if I had really accomplished what the Lord wanted of me. Some of Elder Christofferson's final words were, "The Lord accepts your offering. He is pleased with your efforts. You will be blessed to receive this testimony if it is what you desire." I couldn't stop the tears from streaming down my face as I felt the spirit testify to me personally that the Lord has accepted my efforts. They were not perfect, I am not perfect, but He accepts what I have been able to give. It was an incredible experience, one for which I will forever be grateful.
Finally, I would like to share a few thoughts I have learned throughout the mission. I have done a lot of contemplating during personal study this week and I think it boils down to a few lessons learned:
1. God is merciful, patient and loving.
2. Fullness of joy in the gospel comes in families.
3. There is ALWAYS room for more faith.
4. True conversion, true happiness, requires constant repentance and change.
5. It all comes down to the Book of Mormon.
6. There is only one true church. This is it.
7. Nothing replaces prayer.
8. The greatest anecdote to disanimo (discouragement) is service. The greatest act of service is sharing the gospel.
9. God has a perfect plan. It is so big yet so small.
10. Jesus Christ is my Savior.
I am so incredibly grateful to my Heavenly Father for this chance to serve Him. But he has given me so much more. My testimony is so much deeper, my conviction to live his gospel so much stronger and my love for the savior so much more profound. I know without a doubt that this is the true church and the only way to receive all that our father has to offer. I know He loves me and has a plan for me. The mission has been the best experience of my life so far. I am so sad to leave this work, this country and these people but I know it keeps going. That's the best part.
I can't wait to see you all on Friday and hug you! Have a wonderful week!
Love,
Hermana Millet
 |
Final picture with my beautiful companion Hermana Urbanawitz. Throwing away the mission shoes!!! Hooray!  My three angels. Hermanas Alley, Robinson and Gardner. I started this amazing journey with them and have looked to them for support, understanding and love in every opportunity. I love them more than words can express. Aren't they beautiful!? Saying Goodbye.  Rafaela. Saying goodbye to her was super hard. She's been my second mom in Argentina.  Alfredo may have been one of the most difficult. I don't have time to explain now, but just know that people are not always what they seem.  Oscar. I'll tell you about him later. Oh, Oscar.  Paola and Amir. They are the sunshine of Ramos.  Luz Martinez. This woman is menos activo (less active) and is dying of cancer. We try to call or visit often. She and her family are amazing.  Final zone meeting.  My favorite wall in Ramos.  Accion Poetica. So, in Ramos, and really all over Buenos Aires there is this thing called poetic action. It's the coolest. People just write cute little poetic phrases on random walls and it's like a little surprise to find them. I'm definitely finding out how to institute it in Utah when I get back.  P-Day food.  Pepitas with Alfredo |
Monday, November 10, 2014
Never stop learning.
Dear Familia:
Well, I guess it's time I get the email going. I just have too much fun reading all of yours. Totally not the way it should be done, I know.
Anyway, remember how last week I was a little complainy and down. Sorry about that...
This week has been amazing. I was still really struggling personally up until Thursday. Being sort of a pastora on Wednesday (FYI transfers were Wednesday and the elders got all confused thinking I should be a part of the final activities maybe and reunion with the converts etc. so it was a super weird middle ground day which was great for my already emotionally weak state) made me do a lot of thinking, and after such a difficult week I started working myself up with all sorts of negative thoughts. Satan really got a hold of me and I began wondering whether or not I had accomplished what the Lord wants and if my whole mission had been a failure.
The Lord, however, is so merciful and began the healing process through prayer and my personal study. Toward the beginning of my mission one of my friends serving in another mission sent me a BYU speech by President Holland titled "Remember Lot's Wife". When he sent it to me I enjoyed it but didn't really understand why this elder loved it enough to suggest it to me. Thursday morning I had the impression to pull it out and received so much personal revelation. It talks about not looking back into the past of mistakes or sin etc. I felt a huge load off my shoulders as the Lord began to help me direct my thoughts to the awesome opportunities I have left. I once again set new goals and that day set to work on them with hope and faith.
And everything began to change.
1. bautizar mas (baptizing more): Last week our teaching pool was down to about nothing. Thanks to the mercy of Heavenly Father this week we were able to find many new investigators.
One of these families was a man named Christian. He was just arriving home as we walked by and I almost didn't stop but for some reason turned around and began a conversation with him. We basically taught the first two lessons in about 20 minutes there in his doorstep. We walked away in awe. I couldn't believe how completely prepared he was. He is probably one of the most intelligent, and well off people I have talked to in Argentina but was so humble and interested.
We then returned back Saturday night and taught him, his wife and two daughters. Although, as he mentioned, they were a little more skeptical I still have faith. I can just feel that the Lord is preparing them. They may not progress quickly, but I know if we can persevere they will accept the gospel and be the kind of members the ward needs.
We also returned to Rafaela and her family after giving them a slight break and evaluating what we need to do differently to help them progress.
In our first lesson back with Rafaela we decided to read the introduction to the Book of Mormon with her. In the middle of the invitation from Moroni she paused and began to cry. She told us "I know. I don't doubt anymore." I couldn't believe what was happening. We then had a dicussion about what she needs to do to be baptized.
In our next lesson with Daniel he prayed out loud for the first time. His mom is definitely more "religious" but he just gets the gospel in a way that she doesn't. I can't wait to see how his life is going to turn out once he gets converted. He's going to be something awesome.
We also had an amazing experience Saturday afternoon. We walked away from a house and I saw a dad and his son walking toward us. I stopped and contacted them and it turns out they were talking to the elders in another area! They were disappointed because they couldn't go to church and are stoked to find us!
Therefore, this week we are starting out with many more people to teach who have great potential to progress and be baptized in the coming months.
3. Retener mas (retain more): We have met with each of the most recent converts this week; however, none of them came to church on Sunday. Sunday evening, we visited with Alfredo to see why he didn't come to church (he was sick with the flu) and instead of our planned lesson the spirit lead us to talk about forgiveness. It was one of the most spirit directed and focused lessons I have had with Alfredo. He understood more than he ever has. I realize, here now as I am writing this, that maybe this was a sign to me that I need to focus a little more on the needs of our recent converts. Not just teach them the required lessons a second time but really search for the deeper issues to help them personally so they can strengthen their testimonies and remain active.
4. Reactivar mas (reactivate more): My greatest focus in reactivation my whole time here has been on Paola and Jaqueline. There are many families we have been working with, just like our investigators, with whom my focus has been on those who are really progressing. At this point Paola could be considered active. We still continue to visit her, to keep her active, however. One thing I have noticed is that many missionaries see a less active go to church one or two times and think they are reactivated, however, we must continue to help them until they are fully incorporated into the ward.
To be completely honest, I'm not quite sure what the secret was this week but in my efforts to humble myself before the Lord, work to improve each day and put more trust in Him I have felt the spirit guiding us. After each of our experiences this week we said a prayer of gratitude because we literally did nothing. Each of the miracles was a direct result of the spirit working in us and in our investigators, and I am so grateful.
This has been an incredible learning experience for me over the past two weeks and I look forward for what the Lord has left to teach me.
Sincerely,
Hermana Millet
Well, I guess it's time I get the email going. I just have too much fun reading all of yours. Totally not the way it should be done, I know.
Anyway, remember how last week I was a little complainy and down. Sorry about that...
This week has been amazing. I was still really struggling personally up until Thursday. Being sort of a pastora on Wednesday (FYI transfers were Wednesday and the elders got all confused thinking I should be a part of the final activities maybe and reunion with the converts etc. so it was a super weird middle ground day which was great for my already emotionally weak state) made me do a lot of thinking, and after such a difficult week I started working myself up with all sorts of negative thoughts. Satan really got a hold of me and I began wondering whether or not I had accomplished what the Lord wants and if my whole mission had been a failure.
The Lord, however, is so merciful and began the healing process through prayer and my personal study. Toward the beginning of my mission one of my friends serving in another mission sent me a BYU speech by President Holland titled "Remember Lot's Wife". When he sent it to me I enjoyed it but didn't really understand why this elder loved it enough to suggest it to me. Thursday morning I had the impression to pull it out and received so much personal revelation. It talks about not looking back into the past of mistakes or sin etc. I felt a huge load off my shoulders as the Lord began to help me direct my thoughts to the awesome opportunities I have left. I once again set new goals and that day set to work on them with hope and faith.
 |
| If there is anyone who has been there throughout the whole mission it's this girl. Paula went with us to soo many lessons in Lujan and helped me so much when I had to direct the area for the first time as a newbie not speaking any Spanish. I'm sure she thought I was crazy. She watched me grow so much in my 7 months there. She has just been such a huge support and luckily I have been able to see her at various times throughout the mission. She is amazing example to me in her faith and perseverance. I LOVE HER! |
And everything began to change.
1. bautizar mas (baptizing more): Last week our teaching pool was down to about nothing. Thanks to the mercy of Heavenly Father this week we were able to find many new investigators.
One of these families was a man named Christian. He was just arriving home as we walked by and I almost didn't stop but for some reason turned around and began a conversation with him. We basically taught the first two lessons in about 20 minutes there in his doorstep. We walked away in awe. I couldn't believe how completely prepared he was. He is probably one of the most intelligent, and well off people I have talked to in Argentina but was so humble and interested.
We then returned back Saturday night and taught him, his wife and two daughters. Although, as he mentioned, they were a little more skeptical I still have faith. I can just feel that the Lord is preparing them. They may not progress quickly, but I know if we can persevere they will accept the gospel and be the kind of members the ward needs.
We also returned to Rafaela and her family after giving them a slight break and evaluating what we need to do differently to help them progress.
In our first lesson back with Rafaela we decided to read the introduction to the Book of Mormon with her. In the middle of the invitation from Moroni she paused and began to cry. She told us "I know. I don't doubt anymore." I couldn't believe what was happening. We then had a dicussion about what she needs to do to be baptized.
In our next lesson with Daniel he prayed out loud for the first time. His mom is definitely more "religious" but he just gets the gospel in a way that she doesn't. I can't wait to see how his life is going to turn out once he gets converted. He's going to be something awesome.
We also had an amazing experience Saturday afternoon. We walked away from a house and I saw a dad and his son walking toward us. I stopped and contacted them and it turns out they were talking to the elders in another area! They were disappointed because they couldn't go to church and are stoked to find us!
Therefore, this week we are starting out with many more people to teach who have great potential to progress and be baptized in the coming months.
3. Retener mas (retain more): We have met with each of the most recent converts this week; however, none of them came to church on Sunday. Sunday evening, we visited with Alfredo to see why he didn't come to church (he was sick with the flu) and instead of our planned lesson the spirit lead us to talk about forgiveness. It was one of the most spirit directed and focused lessons I have had with Alfredo. He understood more than he ever has. I realize, here now as I am writing this, that maybe this was a sign to me that I need to focus a little more on the needs of our recent converts. Not just teach them the required lessons a second time but really search for the deeper issues to help them personally so they can strengthen their testimonies and remain active.
 |
| Do you recognize them!? It's a long story but I was at the church on Wednesday when Suni and her family from Lujan walked up! I LOVE them sooo much! It was a wonderful little reunion. Don't mind my red face. I was kind of crying right before haha. |
4. Reactivar mas (reactivate more): My greatest focus in reactivation my whole time here has been on Paola and Jaqueline. There are many families we have been working with, just like our investigators, with whom my focus has been on those who are really progressing. At this point Paola could be considered active. We still continue to visit her, to keep her active, however. One thing I have noticed is that many missionaries see a less active go to church one or two times and think they are reactivated, however, we must continue to help them until they are fully incorporated into the ward.
To be completely honest, I'm not quite sure what the secret was this week but in my efforts to humble myself before the Lord, work to improve each day and put more trust in Him I have felt the spirit guiding us. After each of our experiences this week we said a prayer of gratitude because we literally did nothing. Each of the miracles was a direct result of the spirit working in us and in our investigators, and I am so grateful.
This has been an incredible learning experience for me over the past two weeks and I look forward for what the Lord has left to teach me.
Sincerely,
Hermana Millet
 |
| Our last district meeting together. This last transfer the zone switched our districts all around and put us in a district with all elders. To be honest I was not super excited about the change, but it ended up being really great and the district leader was super helpful and patient throughout all of our difficulties this last transfer. |
Monday, November 3, 2014
I LOVE being a missionary, even if I'm wet!
Hello my wonderful family!
I hope you have all had a wonderful week! We are loving serving the Lord here in Ramos and learning every day. It's been somewhat of a trying week, but one in which I have learned a lot and been strengthened a lot in my testimony of our Savior.
By Thursday night this week we had taught one lesson to a non-member and had zero new investigators. Every night, and many times as we were walking during the day, I was praying and searching and pondering for what it is I'm not doing, or what I am doing that is impeding the progress of our work.
And to be completely honest, I'm still not sure if I've found the answer. I've done a lot of reading about purification, faith to find investigators, and prayer. My greatest desire in these last few weeks I have left is to accomplish the will of the Lord. I have been so incredibly blessed in my mission with spiritual experiences, wonderful friends, opportunities to learn and to grow and now I just want to do whatever the Lord needs of me to bless others.
But here rises my greatest question. I've done a lot of searching about faith and prayer. In 3 Nephi 18:20 we learn that the Lord will always grant our righteous desires.
"And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you."
But I know to pray in the name of Christ means I must be asking what he would ask. I know that the Lord wants me to find his children and help them come unto him through baptism but what if that is not his desire right now at this time for us in this area? I know that Christ, the apostles, many of the prophets in the Book of Mormon had to preach and teach to many who didn´t listen and they didn´t always have the success they wanted. How do I know when the Lord just wants me to keep being patient, diligent, keep knocking on doors and talking to people in the street (because I have been blessed to be able to bear my testimony to everyone I see) or when there is something distinct that I need to change to find los escogidos (the elect)?
I've talked to my district leader, and thought about calling President Robertson multiple times, but I'm also practicing trying to receive personal revelation. Yesterday I came to a point where I really just wasn't sure what to do. I couldn't even feel the spirit I was so distraught about wanting so badly to help my companion and those people who are waiting for us. But, I found that the atonement really works for everything. Through Him I was able to find the strength to keep going.
I don't know if I will receive an epiphany from the Lord or if His answer will just be to keep going, keep trying and keep searching. So that is my plan. We sat down and made more goals today. I pray every day for the Lord to help me overcome my weaknesses and focus more on His work and then I just keep going. Maybe we will begin to see great miracles, and maybe we will just have to be grateful for the little ones each day.
I am so grateful for the way the Lord strengthens us through every moment. I know He is our Savior. Without Him we are nothing but with Him all things are possible. I LOVE serving Him, whether that means teaching lessons or walking in the rain all day. I am eternaly indebted to him and am happy to do what he asks. I know this is His church and can't wait to share this message with everyone I meet.
The church is true!
Sincerely, your favorite wet hermana, Jen Millet
PS. Can I also just brag for a minute about my companion? Hermana Urbanawiz has been such a support and ray of light and animo. I wasn't sure how we would get along at the beginning of this transfer but I love her with all my heart and am so grateful for the opportunity to work with her. She is, and will continue to grow into, an amazing missionary.
 |
| Ramos District |
By Thursday night this week we had taught one lesson to a non-member and had zero new investigators. Every night, and many times as we were walking during the day, I was praying and searching and pondering for what it is I'm not doing, or what I am doing that is impeding the progress of our work.
And to be completely honest, I'm still not sure if I've found the answer. I've done a lot of reading about purification, faith to find investigators, and prayer. My greatest desire in these last few weeks I have left is to accomplish the will of the Lord. I have been so incredibly blessed in my mission with spiritual experiences, wonderful friends, opportunities to learn and to grow and now I just want to do whatever the Lord needs of me to bless others.
But here rises my greatest question. I've done a lot of searching about faith and prayer. In 3 Nephi 18:20 we learn that the Lord will always grant our righteous desires.
"And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you."
But I know to pray in the name of Christ means I must be asking what he would ask. I know that the Lord wants me to find his children and help them come unto him through baptism but what if that is not his desire right now at this time for us in this area? I know that Christ, the apostles, many of the prophets in the Book of Mormon had to preach and teach to many who didn´t listen and they didn´t always have the success they wanted. How do I know when the Lord just wants me to keep being patient, diligent, keep knocking on doors and talking to people in the street (because I have been blessed to be able to bear my testimony to everyone I see) or when there is something distinct that I need to change to find los escogidos (the elect)?
I've talked to my district leader, and thought about calling President Robertson multiple times, but I'm also practicing trying to receive personal revelation. Yesterday I came to a point where I really just wasn't sure what to do. I couldn't even feel the spirit I was so distraught about wanting so badly to help my companion and those people who are waiting for us. But, I found that the atonement really works for everything. Through Him I was able to find the strength to keep going.
I don't know if I will receive an epiphany from the Lord or if His answer will just be to keep going, keep trying and keep searching. So that is my plan. We sat down and made more goals today. I pray every day for the Lord to help me overcome my weaknesses and focus more on His work and then I just keep going. Maybe we will begin to see great miracles, and maybe we will just have to be grateful for the little ones each day.
I am so grateful for the way the Lord strengthens us through every moment. I know He is our Savior. Without Him we are nothing but with Him all things are possible. I LOVE serving Him, whether that means teaching lessons or walking in the rain all day. I am eternaly indebted to him and am happy to do what he asks. I know this is His church and can't wait to share this message with everyone I meet.
The church is true!
Sincerely, your favorite wet hermana, Jen Millet
PS. Can I also just brag for a minute about my companion? Hermana Urbanawiz has been such a support and ray of light and animo. I wasn't sure how we would get along at the beginning of this transfer but I love her with all my heart and am so grateful for the opportunity to work with her. She is, and will continue to grow into, an amazing missionary.
Monday, October 27, 2014
(fe)licidad
Dear Family:
My terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day! So yesterday we were studying before church and had about 15 more minutes before we needed to head out when I received a call from Felisa, our less active sister who can't walk. She was alone and needed someone to help her change and give her breakfast etc. I didn't feel like I could say no so we walked as fast as we could the 20 minutes to her house and helped like a tornado to get everything done.
I knew it would be completely impossible to make it to church on time but luckily our wonderful investigators who live relatively close would be going in their car. I called and begged for their help and they swung by on their way to pick us up. In the car was Rafaela, Daniel, Jaqueline (the menos activo) and her 6 year old daughter (my new best friend) Candela. Well, as we're driving we hit a bump and Candela's gum falls out of her mouth right into my hair. We tried getting it out on the way but to no avail.
So I arrived late to church with a big wad of gum in my hair haha. Luckily I was so stressed out about everything all I could do was laugh and later that day when we finally went back to the pench I was able to get most of it out (or most of my hair-one or the other) and now it's basically normal.
Hooray for the mission!
Okay, I'll finally get to writing my official letter. I was enjoying too much reading all about you all and your wonderful lives. It'll be short then, sorry.
This week in district meeting our district leader put on the board for us the word: (fe)licidad and we talked about how happiness is not really possible without faith. (Fe means faith in Spanish and felicidad is happiness) If I have learned anything in my mission it is that faith really is the key to everything, especially happiness.
Right now we are really focused on Rafaela and her family. I want so badly for them to experience the happiness that I know they deserve and that their Heavenly Father wants for them but I know that without faith it will not be possible. Right now Rafaela and Daniel (her son) are both showing great signs of faith in reading, coming to church, praying for answers, etc. but what I am learning in my own experiences and with them is that the real test of our faith, and therefore the real chance for happiness comes when we make the hard decisions.
Right now Rafaela is in a difficult situation in which she is juntado without acutally having relations with this man. She likes to have the family feel of him and her daugther around to have someone to take care of but they don't sleep in the same bed or have any kind of relationship. She doesn't want to marry him but also doesn't want to loose the family that she has grown accustomed to.
Daniel is also struggling to have hope that God really exists and loves him and that he can make commitments and give his life over to God. He is reading but says he stills feels uncomfortable praying.
Sometimes I wish I could have the faith of Nephi:
3 Nephi 7:18 "for it were not possible that they could disbelieve his words, for so great was his faith on the Lord Jesus Christ that angels did minister unto him daily."
That is the power of faith. I want so badly to develop that faith and bring about the change in their hearts. I know it will come, whether through my faith or the faith of my companion, or future missionaries that they will be able to make these changes in their lives and receive all of the happiness available in the gospel.
These last few weeks have served to be a little more difficult in the finding aspect of the work, however, I would walk all day in the sun for the next four weeks just to give thanks to my Heavenly Father for the miracles he has let me be a part of in this past 16 months.
I love this gospel soo much. I am so grateful for the happiness I find in it.
I hope you all too can find the joy in the journey this week and the faith to lead to happiness. I love you!
Hermana Millet
A few random notes just because I want to share:
Familia Alldredge was just transferred to the offices so they are now in Ramos. HOORAY!
I am singing in a choir that will perform when we have 2 members of the 12 apostles come the weekend before I leave!
I ate probably my first and last super delicious chocolate cake yesterday.
Rafaela and her family love my wannabe our brownie recipe.
I'm sick. :( I'm determined not to need to take a day off though because I haven't had to do so in 18 months.
The primary president asked me to help play for the primary program and then we realized it's on the 23rd! Ah how cruel.
I'm going to cook all sorts of wonderful Argentine food for you when I get home.
I'm not going to be sad for one minute that I get to leave before it gets any hotter. I'm already starting to die.
I think that's all.
I LOVE YOU!
My terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day! So yesterday we were studying before church and had about 15 more minutes before we needed to head out when I received a call from Felisa, our less active sister who can't walk. She was alone and needed someone to help her change and give her breakfast etc. I didn't feel like I could say no so we walked as fast as we could the 20 minutes to her house and helped like a tornado to get everything done.
I knew it would be completely impossible to make it to church on time but luckily our wonderful investigators who live relatively close would be going in their car. I called and begged for their help and they swung by on their way to pick us up. In the car was Rafaela, Daniel, Jaqueline (the menos activo) and her 6 year old daughter (my new best friend) Candela. Well, as we're driving we hit a bump and Candela's gum falls out of her mouth right into my hair. We tried getting it out on the way but to no avail.
So I arrived late to church with a big wad of gum in my hair haha. Luckily I was so stressed out about everything all I could do was laugh and later that day when we finally went back to the pench I was able to get most of it out (or most of my hair-one or the other) and now it's basically normal.
Hooray for the mission!
 |
| What? Gum in my hair! |
This week in district meeting our district leader put on the board for us the word: (fe)licidad and we talked about how happiness is not really possible without faith. (Fe means faith in Spanish and felicidad is happiness) If I have learned anything in my mission it is that faith really is the key to everything, especially happiness.
 |
| Daniel, Rafaela, Sofia and Ramon |
Right now Rafaela is in a difficult situation in which she is juntado without acutally having relations with this man. She likes to have the family feel of him and her daugther around to have someone to take care of but they don't sleep in the same bed or have any kind of relationship. She doesn't want to marry him but also doesn't want to loose the family that she has grown accustomed to.
Daniel is also struggling to have hope that God really exists and loves him and that he can make commitments and give his life over to God. He is reading but says he stills feels uncomfortable praying.
Sometimes I wish I could have the faith of Nephi:
3 Nephi 7:18 "for it were not possible that they could disbelieve his words, for so great was his faith on the Lord Jesus Christ that angels did minister unto him daily."
That is the power of faith. I want so badly to develop that faith and bring about the change in their hearts. I know it will come, whether through my faith or the faith of my companion, or future missionaries that they will be able to make these changes in their lives and receive all of the happiness available in the gospel.
These last few weeks have served to be a little more difficult in the finding aspect of the work, however, I would walk all day in the sun for the next four weeks just to give thanks to my Heavenly Father for the miracles he has let me be a part of in this past 16 months.
I love this gospel soo much. I am so grateful for the happiness I find in it.
I hope you all too can find the joy in the journey this week and the faith to lead to happiness. I love you!
Hermana Millet
A few random notes just because I want to share:
Familia Alldredge was just transferred to the offices so they are now in Ramos. HOORAY!
I am singing in a choir that will perform when we have 2 members of the 12 apostles come the weekend before I leave!
I ate probably my first and last super delicious chocolate cake yesterday.
Rafaela and her family love my wannabe our brownie recipe.
I'm sick. :( I'm determined not to need to take a day off though because I haven't had to do so in 18 months.
The primary president asked me to help play for the primary program and then we realized it's on the 23rd! Ah how cruel.
I'm going to cook all sorts of wonderful Argentine food for you when I get home.
I'm not going to be sad for one minute that I get to leave before it gets any hotter. I'm already starting to die.
I think that's all.
I LOVE YOU!
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Only one month left!
One month from today Jennifer will arrive home!!! Yay!!
If you would like to hear about her mission experiences and testimony, she will report in church on Sunday, November 30th at 11:00 am at our ward building which is 4505 South 3420 West. Everyone is welcome.
Dear Family,
First of all, Happy Mother's Day! Yesterday we celebrated Mother's Day Argentine style. I thought of you mommy. :)
This week has been one of the most difficult in a long time, but it also had some of the most miracles and direct answers to prayers.
Our teaching pool has been decreasing as of late and we have had a difficult time finding new investigators that will progress and keep receiving our visits. Therefore, this week we didn't end up teaching very many lessons.
I have also been feeling a little overwhelmed trying to work with the members to organize lessons, family home evenings etc. and feeling a little as if I am doing it all by myself as senior companion.
Therefore, I was feeling pretty discouraged. Throughout the week I then talked to various elders, with good intentions, who asked me how our work was going, what we were doing with the members, encouraging us to improve in our lessons etc. All of the stress and feelings of inadequacy build up and I began feeling as though I just couldn't do it all.
The Lord, however, is so merciful and patient with me and my weaknesses and showed me how this work is not mine at all but is His. Amidst all these trials and feelings of failure, he answered so many prayers and worked so many miracles through our weaknesses.
One of these miracles occurred Friday night after I broke down crying from the stress. I wasn't sure what to do with our last bit of time and so Hermana Urbanawiz stopped and said a prayer to ask for direction. A name occurred to me that wasn't in our plans but who lived just a few streets away and we went to find her. I had contacted her various times with Hermana Rohm but had never been able to teach her. In this moment we were able to contact her and enter her home to teach her! She has been passing through many different trials as of late and really needs the gospel. We were able to share a little about how the gospel blesses families and invite her to begin reading the Book of Mormon. It was something very small and simple but a complete direct answer to our prayer that night.
Another small answer to prayer came Sunday morning. Last week, Alfredo was not able to be confirmed after his baptism so I wanted to be sure that he made it to church yesterday to complete his ordinance. Therefore, we went by his house at 8:20 to walk with him to church, which begins at 9:30, however he wasn't home! All I could think to do was pray, so we did, and then I continued to pray the whole way to church. When we walked in the door, there he was sitting in his spot in the middle of the chapel.
I am so incredibly grateful for a Heavenly Father that answers my prayers.
And more...
All week long we have seen great strides of progress in Rafaela and her family. Each individual has been progressing in their own way and their own time. Rafaela is praying to know if this is the truth. Sofia is praying to have more faith. Daniel is PRAYING (a miracle in and of itself). We talked to Jaqueline in person for the first time in weeks.
Sunday it all culminated in a great miracle when they ALL came to church together! Jaqueline and her daughter as well as Rafaela, Sofia and Daniel. They LOVED it. The talks could not have been more divinely planned with exactly what they each needed.
As we walked out of church yesterday, I just couldn't believe how such a huge miracle had taken place after such a difficult week. We had five investigators in church! A first in Ramos in months! All of our plans worked just as we had hoped. Each of our investigators felt the spirit.
I had done nothing to deserve such miracles. How could that have all happened? This is not my work. The Lord really is behind everything. All I have been able to do is offer prayers of gratitude, promise to improve and keep trusting in Him to change the lives of those in Ramos.
I am so incredibly grateful to be a part of the work of salvation and watch the hand of the Lord change my life and the lives of all of his children. I KNOW with all my heart this is His gospel and His church.
Sincerely, your favorite, never want to leave Argentina missionary,
Hermana Millet
If you would like to hear about her mission experiences and testimony, she will report in church on Sunday, November 30th at 11:00 am at our ward building which is 4505 South 3420 West. Everyone is welcome.
Dear Family,
First of all, Happy Mother's Day! Yesterday we celebrated Mother's Day Argentine style. I thought of you mommy. :)
This week has been one of the most difficult in a long time, but it also had some of the most miracles and direct answers to prayers.
Our teaching pool has been decreasing as of late and we have had a difficult time finding new investigators that will progress and keep receiving our visits. Therefore, this week we didn't end up teaching very many lessons.
I have also been feeling a little overwhelmed trying to work with the members to organize lessons, family home evenings etc. and feeling a little as if I am doing it all by myself as senior companion.
Therefore, I was feeling pretty discouraged. Throughout the week I then talked to various elders, with good intentions, who asked me how our work was going, what we were doing with the members, encouraging us to improve in our lessons etc. All of the stress and feelings of inadequacy build up and I began feeling as though I just couldn't do it all.
The Lord, however, is so merciful and patient with me and my weaknesses and showed me how this work is not mine at all but is His. Amidst all these trials and feelings of failure, he answered so many prayers and worked so many miracles through our weaknesses.
One of these miracles occurred Friday night after I broke down crying from the stress. I wasn't sure what to do with our last bit of time and so Hermana Urbanawiz stopped and said a prayer to ask for direction. A name occurred to me that wasn't in our plans but who lived just a few streets away and we went to find her. I had contacted her various times with Hermana Rohm but had never been able to teach her. In this moment we were able to contact her and enter her home to teach her! She has been passing through many different trials as of late and really needs the gospel. We were able to share a little about how the gospel blesses families and invite her to begin reading the Book of Mormon. It was something very small and simple but a complete direct answer to our prayer that night.
Another small answer to prayer came Sunday morning. Last week, Alfredo was not able to be confirmed after his baptism so I wanted to be sure that he made it to church yesterday to complete his ordinance. Therefore, we went by his house at 8:20 to walk with him to church, which begins at 9:30, however he wasn't home! All I could think to do was pray, so we did, and then I continued to pray the whole way to church. When we walked in the door, there he was sitting in his spot in the middle of the chapel.
I am so incredibly grateful for a Heavenly Father that answers my prayers.
And more...
All week long we have seen great strides of progress in Rafaela and her family. Each individual has been progressing in their own way and their own time. Rafaela is praying to know if this is the truth. Sofia is praying to have more faith. Daniel is PRAYING (a miracle in and of itself). We talked to Jaqueline in person for the first time in weeks.
Sunday it all culminated in a great miracle when they ALL came to church together! Jaqueline and her daughter as well as Rafaela, Sofia and Daniel. They LOVED it. The talks could not have been more divinely planned with exactly what they each needed.
As we walked out of church yesterday, I just couldn't believe how such a huge miracle had taken place after such a difficult week. We had five investigators in church! A first in Ramos in months! All of our plans worked just as we had hoped. Each of our investigators felt the spirit.
I had done nothing to deserve such miracles. How could that have all happened? This is not my work. The Lord really is behind everything. All I have been able to do is offer prayers of gratitude, promise to improve and keep trusting in Him to change the lives of those in Ramos.
I am so incredibly grateful to be a part of the work of salvation and watch the hand of the Lord change my life and the lives of all of his children. I KNOW with all my heart this is His gospel and His church.
Sincerely, your favorite, never want to leave Argentina missionary,
Hermana Millet
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
I LOVE BEING A MISSIONARY!
Familia,
What a wonderful week of miracles!
The greatest of all occurred with Rafaela. My love for her and her family is continuing to grow so much! On Saturday we stopped by to confirm plans for church on Sunday and she and all of her family were outside working on their house (they are constructing a second level). They told us to sit down and wait for them to finish and then we could talk but obviously we weren't going to do that. It was a perfect service opportunity! So we jumped in and started helping to bring the cement in buckets to the men working on the roof. It was really something little and as we were there I had a few thoughts questioning whether it was the best use of our time when we were so in desperate need of new investigators etc. but we kept working.
After a while we finished up and were able to talk to Rafaela for a few minutes. She explained to us how previously her sister, who is an active member in Paraguay, tried to talk with her about the church but she didn't want to have anything to do with it, but now she wants to hear everything. She told us how she loves having us come over and wants to learn it all and go to church! My heart was almost beating out of my chest as I listened to her share her change of heart with us. It was so incredibly beautiful.
This experience was such a testimony to me of how a simple act of service can open so many hearts. The husbands of Jaqueline and Rafaela were both there working and haven't liked listening to us much but their attitude toward us is changing little by little as we gain their confidence. It also softened the heart of Rafaela to share with us her feelings.
The blessings didn't stop there, however. After our baptism that night we were still short a lesson with a member for our goal as well as contacted references and new investigators. It was 8:30 and our plans had fallen through. We stopped by the house of a part member family in which we had received a reference and miraculously they were there. We talked to the member for a few minutes and she told us she was just leaving and didn't have time to talk. We set up a CPV and asked if there was anything else we could do when she said, "Maybe a prayer." She invited us in and went to search for her husband who is not a member! We then were able to pray with her and her husband and teach them a little about prayer and how it can strengthen families. I could not believe how the Lord had paved the way for us to be able to contact this family and have such a great lesson with them at the end of our day. I know that when we are focused on the Lord's purposes He will help us to achieve His goals.
I have been so incredibly full of joy these past few days. I just can't hold inside all happiness that I feel in doing the Lord's work. I am so excited to come home but sometimes I wish I could just be a missionary forever.
Thank you for your support as always. I am so lucky to have such wonderful family and friends, in the US as well as in Argentina. I LOVE YOU!
Sincerely a missionary forever,
Hermana Millet
PS. Alfredo's baptism went wonderfully. Although he complained about how cold the water was and slipped in the bathroom it was a beautiful service. He told us he will go to the regular meetings but he never wants to take a bath in the church again haha. I just love that old man.
PSS. Today is Columbus Day and they do celebrate it here in Argentina because he discovered all of the Americas. Whatever excuse they've got they celebrate haha. It's great, aside from the fact that it's Monday and everything is closed. Luckily we still have ciber and the supermarket.
Last Monday we had a zone activity and played sports. It was way fun. The zone leaders tried to organize hockey and Frisbee but we always resorted back to futbol because it's way more fun.
I LOVE playing soccer with the elders because they are all so good. (And they all get a little impressed that I can actually play haha, That's my prideful side coming out though.)
What a wonderful week of miracles!
The greatest of all occurred with Rafaela. My love for her and her family is continuing to grow so much! On Saturday we stopped by to confirm plans for church on Sunday and she and all of her family were outside working on their house (they are constructing a second level). They told us to sit down and wait for them to finish and then we could talk but obviously we weren't going to do that. It was a perfect service opportunity! So we jumped in and started helping to bring the cement in buckets to the men working on the roof. It was really something little and as we were there I had a few thoughts questioning whether it was the best use of our time when we were so in desperate need of new investigators etc. but we kept working.
After a while we finished up and were able to talk to Rafaela for a few minutes. She explained to us how previously her sister, who is an active member in Paraguay, tried to talk with her about the church but she didn't want to have anything to do with it, but now she wants to hear everything. She told us how she loves having us come over and wants to learn it all and go to church! My heart was almost beating out of my chest as I listened to her share her change of heart with us. It was so incredibly beautiful.
This experience was such a testimony to me of how a simple act of service can open so many hearts. The husbands of Jaqueline and Rafaela were both there working and haven't liked listening to us much but their attitude toward us is changing little by little as we gain their confidence. It also softened the heart of Rafaela to share with us her feelings.
 |
| The Hermanas |
I have been so incredibly full of joy these past few days. I just can't hold inside all happiness that I feel in doing the Lord's work. I am so excited to come home but sometimes I wish I could just be a missionary forever.
Thank you for your support as always. I am so lucky to have such wonderful family and friends, in the US as well as in Argentina. I LOVE YOU!
Sincerely a missionary forever,
Hermana Millet
 |
| Alfredo got baptized! Hooray! |
..jpg) |
| Alfredo showing off the necklace Hermana Rohm bought for him as a going away present. It's boca (one of the soccer teams here). |
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| Zone Activity |
I LOVE playing soccer with the elders because they are all so good. (And they all get a little impressed that I can actually play haha, That's my prideful side coming out though.)
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