Counting my blessings

The last few days, I've been reading in Alma the accounts of Ammon and his brothers and their missionary efforts. Of course, reading about missionaries makes me think of my missionary. I am so grateful that Justin is going on a mission now, and that his experiences are not like those of Aaron or even Ammon or any of the Old Testament, New Testament or Book of Mormon missionaries -- or even the missionary experiences of the early saints. He goes out for only two years, which seems like a lot but not compared to the fourteen years that the sons of Mosiah endured (Alma 17:4)! And, he's not thrown in prison, or made to watch other believers suffer death and persecutions. He does have his hardships. Some people have been incredibly rude and ignorant to him and his companion. But, he's safe. He's felt some earthquakes, had some very flooded streets, but he's safe. He doesn't get to see his family or those he loves at home, but he's surrounded by good people that take care of him. I don't get to see him or hear his voice, but I do get a least one letter and e-mail every week. I'm really counting my blessings this morning. I am so thankful that I have a Heavenly Father who loves me enough to know what I can handle, and will show me how great my life truly is every single day. 

Justin (second from left) talking with the Padgett's, I believe.