Finding Reason In The Refining

Sister Richardson's Super Split Seconds

As of Friday, I've been a missionary for 7 months! Time flies when you're being molded into a better human.

So, it turns out people weren't lying to me when they told me the wet cold literally bites your bones. This AZ girl is soft. Thankfully, a sweet member bought us hand and toe warmers.

The older I get, the more I realize how unfair and tough life is. Life truly is a refining process, and sometimes the refiner's fire feels extra fiery. With that in mind, let's just say the furnace has been at maximum heat the past few days. Last week was the one-year anniversary of one of my friends passing away. Reliving the hell of last year has been, quite frankly, horrific. But because God is good, He gave me a chance to find purpose in the depths of my grief, anger, and sadness. On Tuesday, I had the chance to talk with Andres, Jackie's nephew. In the last 5 years, he's lost his dad, brother, and most recently, his wife. He is now the sole caretaker for his 1-year-old daughter, as well as his brother's children. As he was tearfully explaining his monumental trials, I felt so inadequate to help him, especially because I was also struggling to accept the loss of a loved one. As I was sitting there with tears rolling down my face, all I could think to say was, "I don't know why we have to experience these things, but I know it's going to be OK because of Christ." I explained to Andres the healing power of the Atonement and the Plan of Salvation, and he responded by saying, "I haven't felt this much peace in 5 years." Being able to share that peace was the biggest tender mercy and helped me to find a purpose for the pain I was feeling. There is so much I don't understand, and probably never will, but I do know for certain that everything will be made right because of the Atonement of Christ. I know this life is not final and that we will get to see our loved ones again. Christ really does live, and His sacrifice allows us to find reason in the refining moments of life. I love you all, and I'm grateful to have so many earthly angels lifting me through life!

Much love,
Sister Richardson






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