October Already?

Despite some physical issues this week (see photos), it was a week full of miracles and fun!  haha.  Monday we spent some time down by the river which was so relaxing.  I love being right here on the Mississippi!  Wednesdaywe went on exchanges in Macomb with Sister Bevan and Sister Harmon, but before leaving Keokuk we had time to go finding for a few hours.  

Miracle #1: Tuesday night we felt like we needed to be up in the area by the church, where we had received a referral earlier this transfer.  We walk up there, say a prayer, knock on one door of a lady who came out and listened to us for a bit but wasn't interested then directed us across the street to her neighbors who she had seen the elders go there before.  So we walk across the street, and are immediately welcomed in by the Gilberts.  They had met with missionaries a few years back, and were even coming to church, but did not understand a lot of things.  Jim recently had a stroke, and Kathy was just diagnosed with diabetes... and are both pretty involved with their baptist church, but Jim did say he would like us to come back and answer his questions.  We only had to knock on one door and even though she wasn't interested, she directed us to exactly where we were needed.  Heavenly Father's timing and plans are perfect!  

Exchanges in Macomb were so fun!  It was a short exchange, but we got so much done!  The Macomb sister area is a new area, so the sisters are working a lot with many less actives and finding through members...but as we walked and talked we were able to see many hearts softened as well.  That is one of my favorite things about serving a mission: is seeing people's hearts soften and change.  One family from Chicago was on the bus we were on and as we talked with them, found out they live over by the church building and have always wondered about it.  Another couple we walked past had met with sisters 10 years ago and studied the Book of Mormon...as long as we open our mouths and do our part, we are lead to those who truly have been prepared!  

Miracle #2: Thursday night we were in an area not exactly knowing where we needed to be or what we needed to do...but both of us felt like we were needed somewhere.  We said a prayer, looked around, and both lead to the same house.  We walk up to the house and knock on the door, but no one comes.  Look in (yeah, I know, Creepy! haha)...and come to find out it's an apartment building.  We walk in to this dark and eerie building, find a light switch, and knock on #3... Rikkea opens the door, and lets us right in!  She is 18, from Hamilton, has a brother who is Mormon, and just starting school here for nursing at SCC.  We had a really cool discussion with her about how she is a daughter of God, and how He has a plan for her. She said she had always wondered where we came from, and is excited to learn more.  When we read the intro to the Book of Mormon she said "wow...that makes me want to read it!"  haha.  Sister Andersen and I left in amazement...once again, Heavenly Father placed us exactly where we needed to be, and we knocked on one door.  

Miracle #3:  The Flynn family (from Iowa City)  was sealed on Saturday afternoon!!! :)  What a special experience that was, and I am so grateful to have been a part of it!  It was a blessing to see so many familiar faces from Iowa City again, and to be in the house of the Lord.  I love going to the temple.  It truly is Heaven on Earth. 

This week I have learned that this gospel, and the doctrine of Christ is perfect.  Faith, Repentance, Baptism, the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and Enduring to the End is all encompassing and covers every other aspect of the gospel.  I am so grateful my testimony has been tried, tested, etc....so I am able to shape it and form it into what Heavenly Father needs it to be.  I am so grateful to have read my brother's simple testimony today, and would like to echo it.  I know this church is true, that Joseph Smith did restore it to the earth.  I know the Book of Mormon is the word of God, that as we read it, we will be directed and guided and comforted.  I am so grateful I have the gift of the Holy Ghost to lead me, guide me, comfort me, keep me safe... it is the best gift.  I know that Heavenly Father lives and knows us all personally.  He knows us perfectly. 

Being a missionary is hard, but it's AWESOME!!! :) 

Love Always, 

Sister Natalia Chantae Alston

Keokuk

Hey there everyone!

Zone Training Meetings were this past week:  Sister Andersen and I had planned our training for the Quincy Zone, got there, and when we got there we both had the feeling that it wasn't what we needed to train on.  It ended up being an extremely powerful and spirit-lead discussion on our purpose as missionaries, how the work is progressing and changing and involving so many more aspects... how we all have been given different personalities, talents, and abilities so that we could benefit different people.  We are all placed exactly where we are needed at this time, so that we can touch the lives of those around us and develop certain things along the way.  HAHA... as I wrote that, it was a good reminder for me today as well!  Love it when that happens!  Anyways, it turned into a testimony meeting of sorts, and was exactly what Heavenly Father wanted it to be.  When we got back to Keokuk, we decided we should follow up with an older lady we had met named Nadine.  We were let right in, and she just talked our ears off about how grateful she is to have the Lord in her life.  She is such a sweetheart and has such a great spirit.  We went to the branch relief society activity where we learned: how to cut a quilt square, how to frost cupcakes and cookies, and how to make homemade laundry soap!...actually the laundry soap making was quite fun!...haha.

We were able to see a former investigator for a second, but she was headed out and didn't have time to talk on Wednesday, but she called us on Thursday and said she was having a really rough time and wanted us to come when we could.  We couldn't get over there until Friday morning, but she opened the door and started bawling, saying she had just been thinking about calling us again.  You know, I can't count the times things like this have happened, and I know it's because the Lord really is leading us along as we are in tune; and I am so grateful for these precious moments that remind me I am where I need to be.

Friday was Sister Andersen's Birthday!!!! The big 2-0!!! :)  How did we celebrate you ask?... oh... well, we woke up, had a lesson with a member's friend who's awesome, did some weekly planning, went to the chiropractor, finished weekly planning, played some soccer and softball with the Salyers family while dinner was cooking, and ate steak!!!...oh!  and then went and did baptisms at the temple!  It was quite a glorious day I'd say!  ...and the first time I've done baptisms in the Nauvoo temple, so cool!  I LOVE THE TEMPLE.  :) :) :)

So Sunday morning we texted all our investigators to see if they were coming to church, and all said no for some reason or another... but we turn around and in walks the Salyers and we about had heart attacks!  haha.  I guess they were planning on coming the whole time and just didn't tell us!  It was fantastic!  Oh and it was the primary program, and it almost made me cry because I miss Tasia up there singin!!!  Awe man... Sundays are the best.

Well that is just a little bit our my week here in Keokuk... thanks to everyone for the emails, updates, prayers and love!  LOVE YOU ALL!!!!! 

Sister Natalia Alston

Happy birthday Sis. Andersen!

Missionaries gone wild! haha

Crazies! 

Party with the Salyers

Dancing in the street!

Seasons-A-Changin! : )

So I've been trying to think of what I could write this week to adequately describe what it has been.  The best I could come up with was "The highest of highest, and the lowest of lows."  I haven't really shared much about the struggles of my mission, but I feel that I should at this time for some reason.

Coming on a mission, I knew it would be hard.  I knew there would be opposition, trials, pains, sorrows, etc... but I never put into consideration the fact that the adversary is going to do all he can possibly do to stop me.  Well...my testimony was shaken last week after meeting with a woman who had very valid points to the bible, wanting to "convert" us, and "save" us as we bore our testimonies to her.  It seemed that everything we had to say she refuted, and I was spiritually exhausted.  I let Satan in, instead of immediately asking Heavenly Father to help me be strong.  Wednesday morning I broke down because I didn't know where I stood, where my testimony was, I didn't feel strong enough to be here, I didn't feel worthy enough to be here.  I didn't think I could help others come to the truth because I didn't know if I knew it was true or not myself.  All these thoughts Satan was putting into my head, and I was trying to fight back but it wasn't working.  My sweet companion Sister Andersen suggests we go on a walk, and we walk across a bridge on the Mississippi talking and thinking, then take some time just sitting down by the river.  I got thinking about my ancestors, the pioneers - and all they went through.  I was reminded of their hardships, of Joseph Smith and his persecutions, of the early saints leaving Nauvoo, and crossing that very same river in the middle of winter (without the luxury of a bridge or tennis shoes), all because they knew the church was true.  I prayed, and talked with my Father in Heaven for quite some time...and finally got to the point where I had to command Satan away...and immediately I was at peace.  I prayed for comfort, and I got it.  I prayed to know that God was there, and I felt His arms around me the way He always does in my big "daddy hugs" just like my daddy does at home.  :)  I prayed for the strength to continue on, pleading for "His angels round about me to bear me up"...because I knew I could not do it alone.  As we got up and starting walking, I felt as though I was being lifted and pushed along.  I had to come to this lowest point, to finally believe and know why I am here.  The adversary is going to continue fighting against all that is good and all that we know and have been taught and known our whole lives.  We have to be strong, and rely on those basic truths...truly believing that we can overcome all things through Christ.  As we approach the second coming, it's only going to get worse.  If you are struggling in your own testimony, know that it is only Satan trying to bring you down...don't let him!  The light is so much stronger than the dark.  We are here on this earth because we were righteous and valiant in the beginning...and we must continue to be.

We had the incredible privilege of meeting with Elder Robert Gay of the 70, just 2 days after this experience, and it solidified those very things.  We have to truly put on the armor of God, and share that armor with all those around us.  We must hear the deep voice within us and know that we have more power and strength than we think.  GOD IS GOOD. ALL THE TIME.  We have to remember who we are, and where we came from.  We have to be in tune and listen to the spirit in ALL that we do.  As members of the church, not just missionaries, we have a responsibility to share the gospel...and why would we not want to share what has brought us the most peace, happiness, and joy in our lives?  To those who are not members of the church, come see what the gospel brings.  I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, that "a man will come closer to God by abiding by it's precepts than by any other book."  It has changed so many lives, and will continue to do so; because it's true.  I would invite everyone to open it today and see what Heavenly Father wants you to know. 

My heart is full of gratitude for the constant love I feel from both heaven and earth.  This work, the work of salvation, is so much more than we can comprehend.  We are all missionaries, we are all children of God, we are all special to Him.  He knows us perfectly.  He knows us individually.  I am grateful for this time to refine myself and come to understand that my mission will never end.  This is a new era of missionary work and I am grateful to be a part of it.  I know that everyone we meet and come in contact with is not by accident.  I know that Christ lives, that Heavenly Father loves me, that the gift of the Holy Ghost is one of the greatest gifts I have ever received.  I know the Atonement, the gospel, the plan of happiness, is real.  I love my Savior, Redeemer, older brother, Jesus Christ with all my heart and am so grateful for what He has done for me.  As long as we are on this earth, we will always make mistakes and cannot be perfect...but it is through His perfection and sacrifice that we can return to live in the presence of our Heavenly parents again.  Speaking of parents: I have the most incredible and amazing parents on the face of the planet and am so grateful for them and all they do for me.  Also my siblings...they are such a strength to me, and my best friends.  To all my family (which really means everyone)... I LOVE YOU!!!!

All my Love,

Sister Natalia Chantae Alston

Life as a tri-state Missionary! (September 9, 2013)

It's been an exciting week here in the Kuk! :)  

Tuesday we drove down to Kirksville, MO and worked with Sister Hunter and Sister Johannson for the day, and Wednesday we spent in Quincy, IL working with Sister Winger and Sister Farnsworth!  We had great exchanges in both areas and it was cool to leave them with a greater love and desire for the work. 

Friday night we were able to go to the high school football game with the Salyers family.  It was awesome and we had so much fun!  It was cool to be able to see a few investigators, and meet more of the community and show that we are just normal people too! 

I am constantly reminded of the importance of having the spirit with us.  Heavenly Father is willing to help us with anything and everything, if we just ask!  :)  As long as we are doing our part, we will be blessed.  Each day we see miracles from hard work and obedience, and I am so grateful for the many tender mercies Father in Heaven gives me.  Whether it be from a cool breeze blowing by, stopping to talk to someone who really needed it, being offered a bottle of water from a stranger, to having the strength and energy to make it through the day! The enabling power of the Atonement is real and I know that it is only through Christ that I am able to continue pressing forward.  Being here in Keokuk, there are SO many churches in such a small town...we have a lot of opposition, but we continue being led to those who the Lord has prepared.  Just yesterday, we were at a less-active's home and as soon as we left, Sister Andersen said we needed to go see a former down the road.  We get there, knock on the door twice and no one answers.  A 17 year old boy comes around the corner of the house with a baseball bat thinking we were crazy people or something, apologizes, and we start talking to him!  He is the grandson of the former investigator, knows quite a few of the youth in the branch, and is excited to learn more and come to church!  I know that THAT is where we needed to be right at that moment.  Even if we weren't able to see his grandma, we needed to be there for him. 

I know this email isn't very long or detailed, and I apologize for lack of time (having been kicked off the computers earlier because the library was so busy)... but know that I love and appreciate you all.  I know that this is where I need to be, that I am learning and growing more each and every day.  Prayer works.  The Atonement is real.  The Book of Mormon is the word of God.  The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the true, restored gospel of Jesus Christ on the earth today. 

Love Always,

Sister Natalia Alston

PS... Beth got baptized in IC on Saturday! :)

PSS... General conference is in T minus less than a month! CAN'T WAIT!!! 

The Mighty Mississippi!!! (September 3, 2013)

Hello from good ol’ Keokuk! :)

Leaving Iowa City was extremely bittersweet, but I am so grateful to be serving here in Keokuk, right on the Mississippi river!  It is beautiful, the people are so friendly, and Sister Andersen is amazing!  (We came out together! )  I am so excited to just get to work and have already seen many miracles in the past 4 days!
Before leaving Iowa City, it was such a blessing to say “see you later” to so many wonderful families and friends that I will cherish and love forever!  One of the most amazing experiences happened my last week there as well… Sunday, a couple from the University ward brought a girl to church who they had met at Costco…she loved it, we taught her the first lesson during Sunday School, she loved it.  Monday night after Sister Campbell left, we were able to meet with Beth again and found out that she hadn’t been able to put down the Book of Mormon ALL DAY!... she agreed with everything and pretty much taught us!  Haha… oh yeah… and the best part is?!... She is getting baptized this Saturday!  2 weeks after meeting the members that brought her to church!  NOW THAT’S A MIRACLE!!!  I strongly believe Heavenly Father has many of those special spirits prepared in each area, and I am so excited to continue to find those who are truly thirsting for the truth.

Transfer meeting caused a bit of anxiety, having it be my first actual “transfer” of the mission! …but being transferred to KEOKUK, IA is such a blessing!  Sister Andersen opened this area 3 months ago, it’s right across from Nauvoo, we took a bike ride along the Mississippi River this morning, we went to the Labor Day parade yesterday where the whole town was out! J  Awe man, I can’t even express how much I love it here already!...oh and not to mention being welcomed in with a baptism on Saturday!  Now that’s another story for another day, but wow!  Haha. We are in a small branch, live with the Branch President and his cute little family, the ward mission leader Brother Hoelker used to live in the 9^th ward (appx. 1996) right by the symkoviacs, Rachel Montoya ( a girl from pleasant grove living here for nursing school) has a younger sister who just barely married one my best friends from BYU Hawaii, Cozi!  SUCH A SMALL WORLD, but I am so grateful Heavenly Father has placed me here at this time with such incredible people who I feel like I’ve known forever already!

Last night we met with one of our investigators (who the sister met right when they got here), who is so inspiring!  She is INVESTIGATING like I’ve never seen before, it’s great!  Haha. She studies the Book of Mormon, Bible, and the gospel principles book all day everyday!  She has been through so much in her life, and finally made some huge decisions yesterday that will change her life for the better.  She told us how the Book of Mormon has changed her life completely.  It hit us so hard… to witness the power and strength that truly does come from reading and studying and living the gospel.  IT’S TRUE!!!

I just want to share my testimony of the Priesthood.  I know that it is real, I know that it has been restored to the earth; I am so grateful for the worthy priesthood holders in my life that I can call on at any time for blessings…I don’t know what I would do without it!  I know Heavenly Father loves us all so much and wants us to be happy.  I know that He is aware of me,  and I am so grateful that I am able to talk to him and hear from him always.  I’m so grateful for our Savior, Jesus Christ, and the knowledge that I am truly never alone.  I know that he knows me personally and has walked the paths I am walking right along with me.  I know this church is true.  I know that families are forever.  I know that as we do our best and continue moving forward, never giving up, blessings will come in abundance.  I know that the Book of Mormon changes lives, it has changed mine.  I know that as we read and study and ponder the gospel, we will feel of our Father in Heaven’s love and be directed by His hand In all we do.

Love Always,

Sister Natalia Chantae Alston