Taipei, Taiwan July 21, 2013

Family! How I love you!
 
We were at the mission office this week and I received one of your packages. Feeling so loved. I remember opening the opera singing card and instantly regretting the decision as every one of the office workers turned their heads to see what on earth they were hearing. Let's just say Ms. Operatic happy birthday could not be silenced until she had finished every, drawn-out note of her song! Love you mom :)
 
  This week was full of miracles. I just passed transfer one in the field. So bizarre! I know this is a time to be setting new goals so I am gearing up and preparing to learn all that I can in the next six weeks.
  One of the more remarkable experiences this week involved a dear woman who loves. her. cats. She hasn't been consistently meeting with the missionaries and her last lesson was over two months ago. She came in with a big smile, a t-shirt adorned with cat photos and lace, and carried the lovely cat aroma we all know so well. So fabulous. Once we began talking, she shared a recent experience that had built her faith. Her cats had been very ill and she had not known how to help them. None of her close family were willing to help her so she turned to God in prayer. She told us that in her prayer, she promised God that if he healed her cats she would be baptized....wow! ...Let's just say that God works in marvelous ways and this dear sister now has a baptismal date next month! Miracle :)
 
  On Wed. we had our -every 6 week- English class party. We made bite-sized "American" pies -that everyone inhaled- and Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches. We also played musical chairs and a balloon-popping game that was near out of control! Overall, it was a huge success. Some of my young students made me the most precious thank you card using their best English skills. Absolutely melted my heart!
 
 We also gave Temple Tours this Thursday. There's a big stake center beside the Taipei temple and every Sister companionship rotates through providing chapel tours for investigators and interested visitors. I LOVE the Taipei temple. Every time I see the white spires I have the warm feeling of coming home. The Taipei temple represents the home base of the mission- where you feel the love of other missionaries and the mission president.  it further represents the heavenly home I wish for all the Taiwanese people. The temple is my goal for every one of them, and seeing it gives me such joy!
 
 This week, I've been reflecting on all the changes God has worked in my life in recent years. This week I turn twenty-one... so young, yet full of so many powerful and precious lessons and experiences. Life is such a marvelous journey, and the path of light - our eternal journey home- is fraught with joy and many wonders. I hope never to miss each and every precious gift, miracle, and lesson.
 
I'm coming to find great joy and gratitude in being teachable. I love Proverbs 12:1 and I have thought of it often over the past week or so... I know that those who love knowledge love correction and instruction. I know that the ability to humble listen and diligently obey brings a multitude of blessings, brings abilities and understandings we would never otherwise acquire.
 
God is working miracles here in Taiwan and I'm grateful to be a witness to it! Love you all so dearly. It's been a great 21 years... The best is yet to come!
 
Sister Barden