The Beast

Serving a mission has been a lifelong dream for me. I've looked forward to this time in my life for as long as I can remember. I used to tell people, "I can't wait to share the gospel, knock on doors, get chased by dogs, etc." Well, be careful what you wish for!

Last week I had the scariest experience of my life as we were out trying to find people to teach. I got chased by a dog! Now this was no ordinary dog, this was a BEAST. It looked more like a bear than a dog and it was ready to eat me for an afternoon snack. It started to charge full speed ahead, but I somehow managed to escape the beast in time. I bolted to the car, ripped open the door, hurled my body inside, and quickly slammed the door. I honestly don't know how I managed to escape with my life, let alone all my limbs still attached, but I count my lucky stars to be here today.

Now, you may be wondering, "How does this fit with her 'I Stand All Amazed' theme?" Well, let me enlighten you. As we were driving up the lane toward this house, I had a horrible sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. The distinct thought came into my head, "Get out of here!" Deciding to push aside these thoughts and feelings, I ignored this prompting and continued.

The prompting I received was from the Holy Ghost and today I stand all amazed at the gift of the Holy Ghost. Having the Holy Ghost as a constant companion is a gift that we receive after baptism if we live worthy of its presence. The Holy Ghost doesn't have a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit. The Holy Ghost is a member of the Godhead, along with God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. I truly consider the Holy Ghost to be one of God's most precious gifts to His children because the Holy Ghost testifies of truth, offers comfort during times of trial and sorrow, sanctifies and cleanses, gives spiritual strength, and warns of spiritual or physical danger. If we will listen to the quiet promptings of the Holy Ghost, we can have great joy in our lives. In 2 Nephi 32:5 it reads: "For behold, again I say unto you that if ye will enter in by the way, and receive the Holy Ghost, it will show unto you all things what ye should do." What a wonderful promise! Although I'm obviously still learning to listen to the Holy Ghost, I'm incredibly grateful for its companionship in my life. I stand all amazed at the gift of the Holy Ghost. And hopefully next time I will listen to its promptings because getting chased by dogs is no longer a dream of mine.