There are NO coincidences

I really enjoy the time that I have to look back throughout my week, because there always seems to be a common theme. Some lesson that I need to incorporate into my life to become both a better missionary and disciple of Christ. This week's lesson is that there are no coincidences. Heavenly Father has a reason for every experience, person, and trial that he puts in your life. 

On Sunday, I had the opportunity to teach Relief Society with my companion. The spirit was so strong in our lesson and we had an amazing discussion with our class. (good thing too, because we had both the branch president's wife, and a sister on the general young women's board in attendance. No pressure!) I am so grateful for the past experience that I have with teaching callings. Without it, I don't know what I would have done or how I would have reacted to the invitation to teach. I truly know that Heavenly Father has prepared me and is still preparing me for future callings and life experiences. 1 Nephi 9:6.One weird thing that happened this past week, is that we had two people get injured during exercise time. One of them is an Elder going to Sweden who broke his foot and will have to get surgery and also delay his mission as a result of it. He has since shared his testimony that he has received comfort from Heavenly Father and that this happened for a reason. We may not always know why some things happen, but Heavenly Father will always give us comfort, if we ask, no matter what we are going through.

  Also, this principle relates to the people that I have come into contact with at the MTC. I know that the Lord has put me with Sister Rawson and all the amazing girls in my district and branch for a reason. Whether it be lessons they can teach me or just being a comforting friend, they are in my life for a reason. That also means that I always need to be listening and following the promptings of the Holy Ghost because I am probably part of their lives for a reason too. I need to have full confidence that Heavenly Father knows what he is doing and that he will lead me through the Holy Ghost.

Another lesson that I learned this week is that I can't truly serve someone unless I have charity for them. Everything in this gospel requires all of our HEART, might, mind and strength. I know that if I ever need help with that, which I am learning everyday that I need more and more help, I can always ask the lord. Moroni 7:48. As I come to see others as Heavenly Father sees them, I feel more of a desire to serve them.

 Well I am just about out of time! I love you all and feel your prayers every day! I challenge you all to do light the world and ask Heavenly Father to help you sincerely love the people that you serve.

 Love always, Sister Starkie

The Provo temple this morning was so beautiful

 Our district Sisters at the Provo temple this morning...and photobombers

 Me with Sister Kenworthy and Sister Rawson

​The Flag outside of our Norsk classroom

I found finally found Logan's card that he hid in my suitcase! Little did I know that Mr.Clown would be part of the package. I should have seen this coming, because the same thing happened when I left for college...