Missing Chicagoland

Some days I really miss Chicagoland. Recently, I've had a bout of "homesickness" for Illinois. Fall seems to be the worst time for that. I loved fall in Illinois. I wish I could go back for a visit right now.

I know I've said it so much before, but my mission really does mean a lot to me. I feel like I don't get to express my love for my mission as often as I'd like. Up here at BYU-I people assume that guys have gone on missions, so that brings up the topic. But, not so much with girls. It's tough- I don't want to flaunt the fact that I've been on a mission, but sometimes I'd really like to talk about it with someone!

Luckily for me, the other day I ran into my trainer on campus. I had actually left my apartment 15 minutes earlier than normal and decided to go sit somewhere and read. I ended up running into her and we talked a little bit and reminisced.

I've been told that I'll see blessings throughout my life for choosing to serve. Some of the blessings are coming in really small and simple things. For instance, I recently had a quiz in one of my classes where we were randomly asked who the mayor of Chicago is. Thankfully, I knew. Being an RM comes in handy at times. :)

The other day I pulled out a notebook I used on my mission and started browsing through it. I came across a page entitled, "How I've Grown on My Mission and What I've Learned So Far (As of 2/18/08)." Several things were listed: "Increased in faith, more prayers in my heart, a deeper love for the hymns, become a stronger person overall, learned to be satisfied when I do my very best." Now, having been home for 21 months (as of yesterday), I don't always really think about how my mission changed me. But it did.

I'm glad the Lord prompted me and prepared me to serve a mission in Illinois. That experience has now prepared me for other things in my life. There will always be a special place in my heart for Chicagoland and the people there.