the spirit lives everywhere..

don't get me wrong, i LOVE china. with almost all of me! buuut.. there is one setback. they do not allow the people here to choose freely which religion to believe in and the LDS church is not recognized here. although there are a couple branches set up in all of china, we are not allowed to share our faith with others, even if they ask.

today is sunday for me, and so far it has been splendid. it is fast sunday, so of course my stomach has been grumbling all day. it doesn't bug me though, because i know what i am sacrificing for.

yes, the "church" is not here, but the spirit is. i had a little devotional with the other 3 girls in my group today and i just have to say, i felt the spirit stronger than i have in a while. here is what my devotional consisted of.

brief overview of this talk: "Desire" by Elder Oaks

shared this video:

finally, bearing my testimony to them.

it is so weird to me that in a place where the church virtually doesn't exist, i can feel as close to the Lord as i can when i am home, if not stronger because i have less distractions. it is easier to do the right things that can seem tedious in a busy, busy life.

i just want to say, i am a member of the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints and i believe in it's teachings with all of my heart. because of my own decisions and experiences i believe it to be true. i believe the book of mormon to be words of truth translated by joseph smith through the power of God. happiness comes from living the principles and teachings of this church... i know this with all of my heart. i am happy because of the love i know God has for me. i know there is a prophet alive on this earth today, his name is Thomas S. Monson. i am grateful for the life i have and the things i know for myself.

enjoy this life, find joy in the journey :)