My Story: Called to Serve.

Almost three months ago during General Conference, a huge, life changing announcement was made for millions of LDS youth and their families. As, I'm sure, you know and have heard more about than you'd probably like, the age for missionaries was changed. For me this meant I could serve a mission in 6 months rather than 2 and a half years. However, in my young mind this still felt like forever away and I was preparing to move to London so I didn't give it a whole lot of thought.
As the days, weeks, and months went on and it seemed like every girl (and boy), including my roommate/best friend, I knew were preparing for missions, I was so excited for them and started to think about the possibility in the back of my mind. I was determined to stay focused on London, though. I had plenty of time to think about it later, when I was living in the U.S.
Someone a little more knowing than I had different plans, though, and let that little thought grow bigger and stronger until it was all I could think about. I thought and thought until I started to overthink. I worried that I was only thinking about a mission because "everyone else was doing it." I knew that serving a mission would be an incredible experience, but I also knew that it's not right for every girl. One thing I knew for certain was that I did not want to serve for the wrong reasons. So I prayed and prayed and prayed some more.
I was so confused.
Finally, I went to the Bishop. We had a nice long talked. Well mostly he talked and I cried my eyes out. Luckily, he was inspired and told me exactly what I needed to hear. He read me scriptures that seriously sounded like they were written just for me and what I was feeling. I felt the Spirit so strong and I knew, without a doubt, what my answer was.
I am serving a mission.
In that moment I knew that I had received my answer a while ago, and could remember the exact moment I had. I was so worried about going for the wrong reasons though that I let doubts and fears take over the peace I felt when I received my answer. After talking to the Bishop all of those doubts disappeared. I felt like a thousand lb. weight had been lifted off my shoulders and the Bishop told me it was a visible change. I know with all of my heart that I am supposed to serve a mission.
Since that meeting I have felt nothing but peace and happiness. I cannot wait to serve the Lord and teach people about the most important thing in my life for 18 months. I know they will be the hardest, most worthwhile months of my life.
This weekend I completed my papers, appointments, and interviews. I should receive my call in a few weeks, in London, and will open it with my family via Skype. Can you believe that? Thank goodness for modern technology!
Thank you all for your love and support. I wouldn't be at this amazing place in my life without the countless Christ-like examples around me.
With love,
(soon to be) Sister Rolfe