Learning to become a woman.

The funniest part of my week was definitely at a multi-zone training.  Sister Barrientos took all the sisters aside and gave us a "specialized training."  All of the sisters were a little bit nervous and we did not know what to expect, but we soon found out it was so that we can be more ladylike and prepared for our lives after the mission.  Some tips she gave us:

1. Walk like a lady by putting one foot in front of the other.

2. Keep your eyebrows in check and wear makeup. (This one was directed at our Filipina friends.  Sister Barrientos basically said, "Look at the white sisters.  They will help you to pluck your eyebrows and put  on mascara.")

3. Wear heels to church.

The whole thing was extremely funny. 

On a more spiritual note, we had some amazing experiences this week as we saw our investigators see the light and truth of the gospel.  One example is Aloha.  She is from Apayao, an area not yet open to missionary work.  She has lived here in Sanchez Mira where she has studied at a local college.  We have been teaching her on and off for a few months, but she does not seem interested in our message.  She made it clear that she is Catholic and plans to stay Catholic.  But this week, Aloha changed.  We were teaching her of the cleansing affects of baptism and the blessings it brings to our lives.  Then, quietly, she said to her roommates, "It is true."  Aloha graduates from college in only a few days.  Then she will return to Apayao and search for work.  She may not have contact with the missionaries for a very long time, but I know they will find her again and she will become a member of Christ's church.  I am sad that I will not witness her baptism and see her become cleansed fully from her sins, but she will have the opportunity someday.  I have even asked myself, "Were we too late? Why could she have not gained this testimony a few months ago?"  But I believe that God has His own timing and it is the best timing.

This applies to us also.  We have to respect God's timing.  We always invite those that we teach to pray to know if our message is true.  Although we know that what we teach is true, it is important that they come to know it is true for themselves.  It is hard when it takes a long time for their answer to come.  I do know that God answers every prayer when we are patient and obedient to Him.  "God's plans are better than ours.  That is why God doesn't always say yes; sometimes He says, "My child, allow me, for I have a better way."  Let's be patient with the Lord.  Let's wait on Him and not have Him wait on us.

MaHaL kO kAu!

Sister Copeland

Philippines Laoag Mission

Brgy. 50 Buttong, Airport Avenue

Junction Tangid Road, Laoag City 2900

Ilocos Norte, Philippines

P.S.

I heard that the Biebs got arrested for drag racing.  He should have served a mission.