I LOVE to see the Temple!

On June 18th, 2003 I returned home from serving a full time mission at Temple Square for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

I can't believe this month marks the 6th year since returning home. I often look back to that short period of my life and think about all the people I met and taught; my AWESOME companions and friendships, and all the wonderful experiences I had (too many to count). That small period of 18 months was the greatest crash course in life lessons that I could have ever had. I owe so much to my mission and the blessings it has brought me...

First and foremost a greater testimony of my Savior Jesus Christ, the power and beauty of the Atonement, and the joy of the resurrection.

Second, employment as a teacher at the MTC... the place were I met my husband (no he wasn't a missionary, he was a teacher too). Which has also lead to 2 wonderful children.

Thirdly, a better understanding of the spirit, its ability to change lives and convert people to the gospel.

I've learned the importance of the Book of Mormon and its testimony of our Savior. One of my favorite passages of the Book of Mormon comes from the introduction of the book, it says...

"We invite all men everywhere to read the Book of Mormon, to ponder in their hearts the message it contains, and then to ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ if the book is true. Those who pursue this course and ask in faith will gain a testimony of its truth and divinity by the power of the Holy Ghost. (See Moroni 10: 3-5.)
Those who gain this divine witness from the Holy Spirit will also come to know by the same power that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world, that Joseph Smith is his revelator and prophet in these last days, and that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the Lord’s kingdom once again established on the earth, preparatory to the second coming of the Messiah. "
This was one of my favorite passages to read, it brings such power and conviction to me of the truthfulness of the gospel. Not only does it extend an amazing invitation, but it gives the steps to gain a testimony, and then once gained, what kind of testimony you will have.

I've developed a greater love for Joseph Smith and Brigham Young, and the need to have living Prophets on the earth.

Because of my mission I've learned the need to develop Christ like attributes and become more like him.

I now see the importance of service, the Lord needs everyone to do his/her part, where one slacks it becomes harder for the Lords church to function, no matter what the calling or need may be.

I've seen the amazing love of the church demonstrated through humanitarian and welfare relief. A small portion of my mission was spent at Welfare Square...though I enjoyed the spirit of all the tours I gave, the one that I enjoyed the most was Welfare Square.

There is something special about welfare square. Anyone who takes a trip to Utah, needs to take a tour at Welfare Square and the Humanitarian center.

Finally my LOVE for the Temple has grown so much. It's so important to attend the temple regularly. To feel the peace that exists their and grow closer to our Heavenly Father.

...I LOVE to see the Temple!!!!