Philippines bound

So I leave on Monday morning at 4:30 am and I am so excited. Before I say anything else, I want everyone to know that there is actually a storm in the Philippines right now. My teacher told me about it and there is an earthquake and tropical storm that has killed several dozens of people. Don't worry about me. I know that the Lord will always protect me because I am a missionary. I am actually really excited to go and serve the people with disaster clean-up. The reason I say this though is because you can probably search some information on the internet or news about it. So we've been warned that we won't have electricity or water for probably 2 weeks at least. This means no showers, and no emailing. Sorry everyone, but don't be worried when you don't hear from me for a couple weeks. But please send your prayers, because I'm worried about not showering for two weeks. I guess if I can handle this, I can pretty much handle anything else during the mission, right? :) I'm hoping to find a head lamp in one of the airports or once I get into the Philippines. 

I'm starting to feel a little nervous about the unknown, but super excited to use my Tagalog I've learned. I'm also really excited to find all of the deaf and people with learning disabilities in the Philippines so I can love them! 

I've really realized how the Lord is taking care of me. I know that He is looking out for all of us. He has nothing better to do than to take care of His children. Missionary work is also super amazing and so important. I wish I could be a missionary for the rest of my life because it is probably the closest that I will ever be to my Savior. I already don't want to give up being a missionary. 

As I prepare to leave in two days, I want to share my testimony with anyone that this blog may find. I know that this Gospel is true. There is no doubt in my mind. Why would so many young people give 18 months or two years of their life, pay $10,000, leave the family, go across the world to strange places that are uncomfortable, feel alone in a new place where you don't speak the language, if this Church weren't true. I know that it's the actual, living Church of Jesus Christ on the Earth. But just knowing that isn't enough. We all need to act on our faith by doing what Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ ask of us. It's really that simple. Just do it. Just live how you know that you should. Remember to serve others and do what is needed! Just invite your friend to church and share the Gospel with everyone by how you live. I would never want to stand in front of my friend in heaven and try to explain why I didn't share the Gospel with them. Even more, I wouldn't want to try to explain to God why I was ashamed of the truth. 

I know that I am going to the Philippines for a reason that only God knows. I am so happy and so joyous. 1 Nephi 4:6

Pray for me and I'll pray for you. Take care everyone! 

Love always, 

Sister Santa