March in the Mission

This month at the Bishop's Storehouse went by so fast! Here are some things that happened:

- I got appointed to be Sister Gygi's secretary haha

- The other YCSM sister finished her mission so it's Sister Keeley and a billion Elders. (Maybe not a billion, but we decided to sing the mashup of "As Sisters in Zion" and "We'll Bring the World His Truth" for zone conference. Good thing the senior missionary sisters will sing with me, otherwise it'd be a solo haha! It's great fun though, the Elders are awesome.)

-I tried a real ice cream sandwich: ice cream on a piece of bread. It tastes exactly like how it sounds.

- I finished the Book of Mormon again. Let me tell you all, that book is true! It changes lives. It has brought a lot of healing and peace and answers into my life. It's Heavenly Father's words to us and I love it so much! I challenge you all to read it everyday; it will bless your life!

- We watched The Other Side of Heaven as a group. 

- I changed my depression medication. Life is a roller coaster.

- One of my friends from high school came through the temple for the first time, and guess who got to help her?? Sister Keeley! #divinelyorchestrated 

-I gave the devotional in our district meeting with an hour's warning. Thank goodness for the Spirit and the help from Heavenly Father! I definitely was led by the Spirit, and would have been so stressed without God's help.

Here is the quote of the month that has blessed my life:

"Mothers, you might be kneeling next to your four-year-old as he says his bedtime prayer. A feeling flows over you as you listen. You feel warmth and peace. The feeling is brief, but you recognize that you, at that moment, are counted worthy to receive. We may seldom, if ever, receive huge spiritual manifestations in our lives; but we can frequently savor the sweet whisperings of the Holy Ghost verifying the truth of our spiritual worth." (-Joy B. Jones)

My little sister Anna had been looking for her piano books for several days. One day, she and Sarah were looking and getting frustrated. I prayed for help in finding them. All of a sudden, I had the thought to check the car. We only had one of our cars in our driveway, but I checked it anyway. They were in it! I know God knew what we were going through, and though it was small, He showed forth His great power and love towards His children. Also, I have been in the slow process of switching depression meds, and when I get depressed I feel far from God. This was an moment in my day where He showed me I was still worthy, He still cared, and He has power to fix broken things.  Having the Spirit is one of the greatest blessings ever! Sometimes we take it for granted, but I am seeing more and more how blessed we are! We are not alone. He sends us the Comforter.

Psalms 8: 3-5 states, "When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour."

Often I feel like this. I have done nothing to deserve His love. I am so small, yet He loves little old me. His love is eternal, everlasting, and I just can't comprehend it! I know He loves us, and we can each feel it too. He cares enough to let us know. He cares enough to help a struggling daughter feel His love by showing her where her sister's piano books were. He cares. "Oh it is wonderful that He should care for me enough to die for me! Oh it is wonderful, wonderful to me."

Okay so I feel like sharing this story, I'm not sure why. One Sunday this month, someone said something at church that made me feel like my comment during the lesson wasn't good enough. Anyways, next Sunday rolled around. Thanks goodness for my calling, I showed up like normal to be in the library. However, once I was in the chapel, I remembered once again the last Sunday. My thoughts once again attacked me. I felt inadequate. Not needed. Not loved. I started to not want to be there. However, deep in me, I desired to want to be there. So, during the Sacrament, I prayed. Heavenly Father opened my eyes to see that there are indeed people in my ward who love me. They love me in spite of my imperfections. They are there for me through thick and thin. Then, He helped me to see that the person whose comment had hurt me actually loved me too. They didn't even know it hurt me, but if they did, they would want to help me. Heavenly Father helped me forgive and He helped me realize that I am loved and I am needed in His Kingdom. There is a place for everyone in our church. He just keeps helping me see I am loved and I am good enough. Everyone, EVERYONE, is needed and loved. 

Another thing that hit home for me this month was in the Come, Follow Me resource for families and individuals. We read in Mark 2:1- 12:

                       1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house.

2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them.

3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four.

4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.

5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.

6 But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts,

7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?

8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts?

9 Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk?

10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,)

11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.

When I read it, it hit me how much depression and other trials as well are like the palsy. It can immobilize a person. It feels like I cannot get nigh into Christ because of the press because of the thick darkness and thoughts that keep me away from feeling the fruits of the Spirit. It's extremely discouraging! However, I also have those good souls hoisting a rope in their hands, lowering me slowly until I am close to Christ again. They love me even though I am immobilized and I don't seem like me anymore.  Then, the Savior says, "Thy sins be forgiven thee." Why does He say that instead of just healing him? I don't know, but I do know that when He says this, it is powerful! It changes lives. He has said it to me often when I am feeling low. He reminds me that I am still counted worthy. I can't really explain it, but it just brings a sense of relief and hope and joy, even though I still have my problem to face. He then heals the man. Someday, I will be healed. I don't know when, but I have faith that I will be. "Because He has an eternal perspective, Heavenly Father can see things we cannot. His joy, work, and glory are to bring to pass our immortality and exaltation. Everything He does is for our benefit. He "wants [our] eternal happiness even more than [we] do." And He "would not require [us] to experience a moment more of difficulty than is absolutely needed for [our] benefit or for that of those [we] love."'(Brian K. Ashton) He loves us even when we can't feel it also. Someday it will all work out. He will heal us all.

This month I helped a cute family as they were sealed. The three littles were getting sealed to their parents. There was so much light and happiness emanating from this family! Oh, how beautiful is it that we can be sealed with those we love for forever! Heavenly Father's whole plan circles around families. I have made an effort to serve and love my family more each day recently. As I have done so, I have felt more love and connected with them. Families are one way God shows His love to us. 

One quote I read that stood out to me is "Do not pray for tasks equal to your abilities, but pray for abilities equal to your tasks." -Thomas S. Monson. When I first got to the storehouse, I would be exhausted and stressed come 4:00. Now though, I often stay until 5 or 6 and feel energized afterwards. I know that it is through His grace that I am enabled to do this. He is making me stronger and happier. I know He is active in our lives, and He loves us. I know the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is His church, and He will speak to us through His prophets this weekend. I invite you all to listen and find His individualized message meant for you. He loves you!

Love you all!

Sister Keeley

Re: Try, Try, Try

Thanks for sharing this with us.  I know the lord loves you and he understands everything you’re going through. Keep having faith and he will help make your load bearable. 
You are a wonderful person and Sister Gygi and I love serving with you.
Elder Gygi

---

From: Mayli Keeley <maylikeeley@gmail.com>
Sent: Friday, March 1, 2019 10:15:25 PM
To: Becky Keeley; Jeri Keeley; Liz Keeley; Andrew Keeley; PAUL KEELEY; RODNEY CUTHBERT; Pat Cuthbert; Darin Oviatt; Jamey Skousen; Jeff Bryant; darrellgygi@hotmail.com; sulet.hiatt@ldschurch.org; Adam Rowan; Brother Buxton; Kevin Keeley; Jim & Marlene Keeley; Shennie Keeley; Aubrey Elizabeth Ferrel; Danica Angelle Gaspar; Sister Pierce MTC; Annie Graham; Taylee Bullard; megaak3.mayliblog@blogger.com; Roger Rowan; Deborah Richardson; Karen Davis; Dave & Joyce Keeley; Dale R. McClellan; Elise Cuevas; Eseta Pau; Peyton Fitkin; Claudia Webb; Sister Hughes MTC; Merce Jolloso; Thor Lindstrom; Lisa Keeley; Mary Capa; samkeel1000@gmail.com; Angelica Thomas; Emma Porter; Mayli Keeley
Subject: Try, Try, Try

 

Hey everyone! For those who don't know, I'm a service missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving at the Bishop's Storehouse and in the temple. I love it so much, and here are some of my adventures from the past month! 

This month, some sister missionaries came into institute and talked about how about 1,000 people are moving into Utah County each month. Many are nonmembers and they think they are moving here to be close to family, or other reasons, but it's really because God is gathering them and He wants them to hear His gospel. The sisters challenged us to give away a Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, and they'd follow up in two weeks. I love missionary work, but when it comes to sharing with friends and neighbors, it's harder for me. I don't always know who is and who isn't a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I feel more nervous giving it to people I know.

I prayed about it and my friends Manny and Nesa came to mind, and I messaged them, asking if either would like a copy, along with a brief explanation and testimony, but hadn't heard back from them. On February 13, I was inspired by the Holy Ghost to make a goal to give it out the next day. I wrote a note about God's love, and determined to give it away to show my love for others and God on Valentine's day. I prayed about my goal, and wasn't sure how it would work out, but it felt right.

The next day I was at the Bishop's Storehouse until 6, stopped at the store, then returned home still with a Book of Mormon to give away. I still didn't know who to give it to, but I had an appointment with the Lord at the temple to keep, so I went, even though the day was slipping past. I didn't know if I would actually give out the book or not. While in the temple, near the end of my time there, the Spirit impressed upon my mind who I should give it to. It was my neighbors, people I had actually felt to give a Book of Mormon to before, but didn't for fear they would think I was pushy. They seem to get a lot of attention from their member neighbors, and I didn't want to bug them. However, as I pushed my fears aside and listened to the Spirit, I felt excited, and that it was right to give it to them. At nearly 10 I softly (because it was late haha) knocked on their door. The sister answered (and I prayed it would be her - I know her better than her husband) and I was able to give her a copy of the Book of Mormon. Oh, God loves that little family! I am so glad I finally listened to Him instead of those silly voices telling me not to do it. I don't know the results, but when you are on the Lord's errand it all works out.

"Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened into you" (3 Nephi 27:29.)

After giving my Book of Mormon away, I asked God how I could continue to serve. I went to the temple with my sister, and we were able to serve 21 of our ancestors through baptisms for the dead. Then, on the way out of the temple, a sister stopped us, "I think you two will really like this quote." I had never formally met her, but I had seen her at the temple often. She shared a quote about how everything comes from God. Then, she asked if we could give her a ride to the other temple (we were at the Provo City Center temple, she needed to go to the Provo one by the MTC, I'm not sure why). I agreed, and so off we went. It was a simple act of service, but by going out of our way for a few minutes helped this sister get where she needed. When we're willing to ask and act, God will give us opportunities. He wants to bless His children, and He will let us be His hands if we are willing. Another time I got a letter and treat for a family member. Sometimes it's strangers, sometimes friends or family, He guides us to those who need help.

This month I and the other young service missionaries also went to the temple to perform baptisms for the dead. The night  before, I realized that I didn't have any names to take. I called my Grandma Cuthbert to see if she had any, but she didn't answer. My neighbor, Kay, has lots of names to take, but I couldn't get ahold of her and she wasn't home. I didn't have any, and the Ordinances Ready option on Family Search only pulled up temple, not family, names. So, I set to work to see if I could find one. I searched along one of my great, great grandmother's line, and found a grandchild of hers! In the meantime, Kay called back and gave me some names. I was able to take hers along with my name to the temple, and I could feel my realitive rejoicing, and my great, great grandma as well. God opened the doors up to help me find her, and then I was able to help Kay's family as well. Kay told me how she hadn't been able to go to the temple because the freezing weather messes with her health. She really wanted to go, but couldn't, and she felt bad about it. Then the next day I called her, asking for names. She was so elated! We did work for over 45 of God's precious children that day. It all just works out! God hears our prayers and knows our hearts. 

At the Orem Institute, there is a board on the wall that asks, "What is you word for the year?" It has pictures of people and their words. It got me pondering what my word for the year is. I decided TRY is my word. Sometimes it is awful hard to even get up, but as I TRY, God helps and magnifies my efforts. In the movie Ephraim's Rescue, Ephraim at one point washes his hands before proceeding to bless and heal a pioneer young man. The young man's mother observes, "Brother Ephraim, you are a holy man." 

To which he replies, "I have so many faults I cannot count them." 

"Then how do you do so much good?"

"I try."

I feel pretty inadequate in my own. It's hard to get out of bed on some days, maybe most days haha, it's hard to put on my running shoes and get out in the sunshine. It's hard to get out the house. It's hard to come back. It's hard to go on when depression seems to suck the life of of me. It's hard to pack a lunch, even! Anxiety tells me I'll be judged for what I pack. It tells me I'm not good enough, why even TRY? But Heavenly Father helps me, hold my hand, and comforts me. He magnifies my efforts, to the point where people say, "You're so good Mayli! You're a lifesaver and always helping others." I feel like I've hardly done anything, but I TRIED, and Heavenly Father does the rest. Our efforts don't need to be perfect to touch someone's heart, in fact God uses the weak things of the earth, "The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones..." (Doctrine and Covenants 1:19). My scripture for my mission plaque reflects this, "Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed" (Doctrine and Covenants 123:17). 

We don't need to "run faster or labor more than you have strength and means," (Doctrine and Covenants 10:4) we don't need to be the answer to every single person, and we don't need to compare our efforts to others' efforts. We just need to do what we can, we just need to TRY our best. Take one more step towards the Life and Life of the world, and trust in Him.

"When things go wrong as they sometimes will, 

When the road you're trudging seem all uphill,

When the funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is strange with its twists and turns, 

As everyone of us sometimes learns,

And many failure turns about,

Into success'-because we stuck it out,

Don't give up though the pace seems slow,

You may succeed with just another blow-

Success is failure turned inside out,

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far. 

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit, 

It's when things seem worse-that you must not quit!"

(Don't Quit, I'm not sure who the author is. Google's uncertain too.)

When I came home from the Philippines, I definitely did NOT want to do anything that even mentioned the word mission. I told my Stake President, "No, I don't want to go back out." Nope, no way. Not even a service mission. Then, a few months later, I was sitting in the temple, and the Spirit said, "Service Mission." 

"Haha what are you talking about? I'm good right where I am. I'm still healing from that last mission. I really don't want to do that." 

The thought of a service mission, specifically the bishop's storehouse, however, continued to persist. I felt some peace, but as I left the Temple, my doubts and fears came back, and I still didn't want to do it. Heavenly Father knows me though, so He waited. I stewed over the prompting for a while, and finally acted on it, because I knew it was from Him, and He's a good guy to follow. So I finally did, even though it wasn't in my plan A or B or even Z. 

In Alma chapter 32, Alma says to his son, Shiblon, "And now, my son, I trust that I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and your faithfulness unto God..." Steadiness doesn't mean he never made mistakes. A gymnast on a balance beam might have to start with someone's help. They may need to put their hands out for balance. They may fall off. It may even hurt an awful lot, and bones might be broken! They may need to rest and heal for a period of time. When they get back on, it will take time to get used to the beam again and be on the same level as before. But as they TRY, they get better and better, and steadier. They still slip up sometimes, but the coach is there to help them get back up. 

What God was asking me to do was to get back on the balance beam. I really didn't want to, but God intends to make more of us than we could make of ourselves. As I TRY, He helps me. I have made more friends, opened my heart up for more healing, He has poured blessings into my life, and given me knowledge and strength. He is there, right beside me, helping me to TRY. It's hard, but full of joy as well. The point of life is to become more like Him, so even if we aren't flawless, as we TRY, our hearts change and we get closer to Him and more like Him.

And, so far, I really love the storehouse. It's so amazing to see someone come in, looking a little dejected and down, but they tend to leave with a smile and sunshine in their hearts. A smile, helping hand, or conversation really can lift a person's heart. It happens to me a lot there too! That place is full of love, hope, and faith. It's hard sometimes, but as I TRY He helps me.

What is your word for the year? What are you striving for? What is a challenge that God can help you with?

On the Sunday before Valentine's day, a member of the San Gabriel ward in the Philippines messaged me, asking if I would send a video message for Valentine's day. That's all they said, I didn't have a specific topic or time limit. I prayed, and the Spirit put an idea in my head, and the result is the video below. I was able to serve the Lord on His Sabbath day by sharing His love with others. It got my family involved too, and gave them a chance to remember God's love in their life, and get them excited to share their testimonies too. It wasn't about the topic for the Come, Follow Me resource, but it definitely got them engaged like how Come, Follow Me does, and it drew us closer to the Savior.

I've been reading scriptures in Spanish lately, and here is my testimony for y'all in Spanish! Lo siento si este es difícil a comprender haha! 

Yo sé que Jesús es El Cristo, la Luz, y la Vida del mundo. Él es mi Redentor y mi Salvador. El Padre Celestial ama yo, tú, y todos los hombres. La iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos días es Su iglesia y es verdad. José Smith y Russell M. Nelson son propetas verdaderas. Si le seguimos Jesucristo, será bendito. Dios tiene un plano que es perfecto. En el nombre de Jesucristo, amén.

I love you all! 

Sister Keeley

Re: Try, Try, Try

I'm so proud of you! 

On Sat, Mar 2, 2019 at 11:17 AM Mayli Keeley <maylikeeley@gmail.com> wrote:

Hey everyone! For those who don't know, I'm a service missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving at the Bishop's Storehouse and in the temple. I love it so much, and here are some of my adventures from the past month! 

This month, some sister missionaries came into institute and talked about how about 1,000 people are moving into Utah County each month. Many are nonmembers and they think they are moving here to be close to family, or other reasons, but it's really because God is gathering them and He wants them to hear His gospel. The sisters challenged us to give away a Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, and they'd follow up in two weeks. I love missionary work, but when it comes to sharing with friends and neighbors, it's harder for me. I don't always know who is and who isn't a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I feel more nervous giving it to people I know.

I prayed about it and my friends Manny and Nesa came to mind, and I messaged them, asking if either would like a copy, along with a brief explanation and testimony, but hadn't heard back from them. On February 13, I was inspired by the Holy Ghost to make a goal to give it out the next day. I wrote a note about God's love, and determined to give it away to show my love for others and God on Valentine's day. I prayed about my goal, and wasn't sure how it would work out, but it felt right.

The next day I was at the Bishop's Storehouse until 6, stopped at the store, then returned home still with a Book of Mormon to give away. I still didn't know who to give it to, but I had an appointment with the Lord at the temple to keep, so I went, even though the day was slipping past. I didn't know if I would actually give out the book or not. While in the temple, near the end of my time there, the Spirit impressed upon my mind who I should give it to. It was my neighbors, people I had actually felt to give a Book of Mormon to before, but didn't for fear they would think I was pushy. They seem to get a lot of attention from their member neighbors, and I didn't want to bug them. However, as I pushed my fears aside and listened to the Spirit, I felt excited, and that it was right to give it to them. At nearly 10 I softly (because it was late haha) knocked on their door. The sister answered (and I prayed it would be her - I know her better than her husband) and I was able to give her a copy of the Book of Mormon. Oh, God loves that little family! I am so glad I finally listened to Him instead of those silly voices telling me not to do it. I don't know the results, but when you are on the Lord's errand it all works out.

"Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened into you" (3 Nephi 27:29.)

After giving my Book of Mormon away, I asked God how I could continue to serve. I went to the temple with my sister, and we were able to serve 21 of our ancestors through baptisms for the dead. Then, on the way out of the temple, a sister stopped us, "I think you two will really like this quote." I had never formally met her, but I had seen her at the temple often. She shared a quote about how everything comes from God. Then, she asked if we could give her a ride to the other temple (we were at the Provo City Center temple, she needed to go to the Provo one by the MTC, I'm not sure why). I agreed, and so off we went. It was a simple act of service, but by going out of our way for a few minutes helped this sister get where she needed. When we're willing to ask and act, God will give us opportunities. He wants to bless His children, and He will let us be His hands if we are willing. Another time I got a letter and treat for a family member. Sometimes it's strangers, sometimes friends or family, He guides us to those who need help.

This month I and the other young service missionaries also went to the temple to perform baptisms for the dead. The night  before, I realized that I didn't have any names to take. I called my Grandma Cuthbert to see if she had any, but she didn't answer. My neighbor, Kay, has lots of names to take, but I couldn't get ahold of her and she wasn't home. I didn't have any, and the Ordinances Ready option on Family Search only pulled up temple, not family, names. So, I set to work to see if I could find one. I searched along one of my great, great grandmother's line, and found a grandchild of hers! In the meantime, Kay called back and gave me some names. I was able to take hers along with my name to the temple, and I could feel my realitive rejoicing, and my great, great grandma as well. God opened the doors up to help me find her, and then I was able to help Kay's family as well. Kay told me how she hadn't been able to go to the temple because the freezing weather messes with her health. She really wanted to go, but couldn't, and she felt bad about it. Then the next day I called her, asking for names. She was so elated! We did work for over 45 of God's precious children that day. It all just works out! God hears our prayers and knows our hearts. 

At the Orem Institute, there is a board on the wall that asks, "What is you word for the year?" It has pictures of people and their words. It got me pondering what my word for the year is. I decided TRY is my word. Sometimes it is awful hard to even get up, but as I TRY, God helps and magnifies my efforts. In the movie Ephraim's Rescue, Ephraim at one point washes his hands before proceeding to bless and heal a pioneer young man. The young man's mother observes, "Brother Ephraim, you are a holy man." 

To which he replies, "I have so many faults I cannot count them." 

"Then how do you do so much good?"

"I try."

I feel pretty inadequate in my own. It's hard to get out of bed on some days, maybe most days haha, it's hard to put on my running shoes and get out in the sunshine. It's hard to get out the house. It's hard to come back. It's hard to go on when depression seems to suck the life of of me. It's hard to pack a lunch, even! Anxiety tells me I'll be judged for what I pack. It tells me I'm not good enough, why even TRY? But Heavenly Father helps me, hold my hand, and comforts me. He magnifies my efforts, to the point where people say, "You're so good Mayli! You're a lifesaver and always helping others." I feel like I've hardly done anything, but I TRIED, and Heavenly Father does the rest. Our efforts don't need to be perfect to touch someone's heart, in fact God uses the weak things of the earth, "The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones..." (Doctrine and Covenants 1:19). My scripture for my mission plaque reflects this, "Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed" (Doctrine and Covenants 123:17). 

We don't need to "run faster or labor more than you have strength and means," (Doctrine and Covenants 10:4) we don't need to be the answer to every single person, and we don't need to compare our efforts to others' efforts. We just need to do what we can, we just need to TRY our best. Take one more step towards the Life and Life of the world, and trust in Him.

"When things go wrong as they sometimes will, 

When the road you're trudging seem all uphill,

When the funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is strange with its twists and turns, 

As everyone of us sometimes learns,

And many failure turns about,

Into success'-because we stuck it out,

Don't give up though the pace seems slow,

You may succeed with just another blow-

Success is failure turned inside out,

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far. 

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit, 

It's when things seem worse-that you must not quit!"

(Don't Quit, I'm not sure who the author is. Google's uncertain too.)

When I came home from the Philippines, I definitely did NOT want to do anything that even mentioned the word mission. I told my Stake President, "No, I don't want to go back out." Nope, no way. Not even a service mission. Then, a few months later, I was sitting in the temple, and the Spirit said, "Service Mission." 

"Haha what are you talking about? I'm good right where I am. I'm still healing from that last mission. I really don't want to do that." 

The thought of a service mission, specifically the bishop's storehouse, however, continued to persist. I felt some peace, but as I left the Temple, my doubts and fears came back, and I still didn't want to do it. Heavenly Father knows me though, so He waited. I stewed over the prompting for a while, and finally acted on it, because I knew it was from Him, and He's a good guy to follow. So I finally did, even though it wasn't in my plan A or B or even Z. 

In Alma chapter 32, Alma says to his son, Shiblon, "And now, my son, I trust that I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and your faithfulness unto God..." Steadiness doesn't mean he never made mistakes. A gymnast on a balance beam might have to start with someone's help. They may need to put their hands out for balance. They may fall off. It may even hurt an awful lot, and bones might be broken! They may need to rest and heal for a period of time. When they get back on, it will take time to get used to the beam again and be on the same level as before. But as they TRY, they get better and better, and steadier. They still slip up sometimes, but the coach is there to help them get back up. 

What God was asking me to do was to get back on the balance beam. I really didn't want to, but God intends to make more of us than we could make of ourselves. As I TRY, He helps me. I have made more friends, opened my heart up for more healing, He has poured blessings into my life, and given me knowledge and strength. He is there, right beside me, helping me to TRY. It's hard, but full of joy as well. The point of life is to become more like Him, so even if we aren't flawless, as we TRY, our hearts change and we get closer to Him and more like Him.

And, so far, I really love the storehouse. It's so amazing to see someone come in, looking a little dejected and down, but they tend to leave with a smile and sunshine in their hearts. A smile, helping hand, or conversation really can lift a person's heart. It happens to me a lot there too! That place is full of love, hope, and faith. It's hard sometimes, but as I TRY He helps me.

What is your word for the year? What are you striving for? What is a challenge that God can help you with?

On the Sunday before Valentine's day, a member of the San Gabriel ward in the Philippines messaged me, asking if I would send a video message for Valentine's day. That's all they said, I didn't have a specific topic or time limit. I prayed, and the Spirit put an idea in my head, and the result is the video below. I was able to serve the Lord on His Sabbath day by sharing His love with others. It got my family involved too, and gave them a chance to remember God's love in their life, and get them excited to share their testimonies too. It wasn't about the topic for the Come, Follow Me resource, but it definitely got them engaged like how Come, Follow Me does, and it drew us closer to the Savior.

I've been reading scriptures in Spanish lately, and here is my testimony for y'all in Spanish! Lo siento si este es difícil a comprender haha! 

Yo sé que Jesús es El Cristo, la Luz, y la Vida del mundo. Él es mi Redentor y mi Salvador. El Padre Celestial ama yo, tú, y todos los hombres. La iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos días es Su iglesia y es verdad. José Smith y Russell M. Nelson son propetas verdaderas. Si le seguimos Jesucristo, será bendito. Dios tiene un plano que es perfecto. En el nombre de Jesucristo, amén.

I love you all! 

Sister Keeley

Video_20190210214002292_by_videomaker.mp4

Mayli Keeley has shared the following video:

Video_20190210214002292_by_videomaker.mp4

Open

This email grants access to this item without logging in. Only forward it to people you trust.

Google Drive: Have all your files within reach from any device. Google LLC, 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA

Video

  Video_20190210214002292_by_videomaker.mp4

Try, Try, Try

Hey everyone! For those who don't know, I'm a service missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving at the Bishop's Storehouse and in the temple. I love it so much, and here are some of my adventures from the past month! 

This month, some sister missionaries came into institute and talked about how about 1,000 people are moving into Utah County each month. Many are nonmembers and they think they are moving here to be close to family, or other reasons, but it's really because God is gathering them and He wants them to hear His gospel. The sisters challenged us to give away a Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ, and they'd follow up in two weeks. I love missionary work, but when it comes to sharing with friends and neighbors, it's harder for me. I don't always know who is and who isn't a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I feel more nervous giving it to people I know.

I prayed about it and my friends Manny and Nesa came to mind, and I messaged them, asking if either would like a copy, along with a brief explanation and testimony, but hadn't heard back from them. On February 13, I was inspired by the Holy Ghost to make a goal to give it out the next day. I wrote a note about God's love, and determined to give it away to show my love for others and God on Valentine's day. I prayed about my goal, and wasn't sure how it would work out, but it felt right.

The next day I was at the Bishop's Storehouse until 6, stopped at the store, then returned home still with a Book of Mormon to give away. I still didn't know who to give it to, but I had an appointment with the Lord at the temple to keep, so I went, even though the day was slipping past. I didn't know if I would actually give out the book or not. While in the temple, near the end of my time there, the Spirit impressed upon my mind who I should give it to. It was my neighbors, people I had actually felt to give a Book of Mormon to before, but didn't for fear they would think I was pushy. They seem to get a lot of attention from their member neighbors, and I didn't want to bug them. However, as I pushed my fears aside and listened to the Spirit, I felt excited, and that it was right to give it to them. At nearly 10 I softly (because it was late haha) knocked on their door. The sister answered (and I prayed it would be her - I know her better than her husband) and I was able to give her a copy of the Book of Mormon. Oh, God loves that little family! I am so glad I finally listened to Him instead of those silly voices telling me not to do it. I don't know the results, but when you are on the Lord's errand it all works out.

"Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened into you" (3 Nephi 27:29.)

After giving my Book of Mormon away, I asked God how I could continue to serve. I went to the temple with my sister, and we were able to serve 21 of our ancestors through baptisms for the dead. Then, on the way out of the temple, a sister stopped us, "I think you two will really like this quote." I had never formally met her, but I had seen her at the temple often. She shared a quote about how everything comes from God. Then, she asked if we could give her a ride to the other temple (we were at the Provo City Center temple, she needed to go to the Provo one by the MTC, I'm not sure why). I agreed, and so off we went. It was a simple act of service, but by going out of our way for a few minutes helped this sister get where she needed. When we're willing to ask and act, God will give us opportunities. He wants to bless His children, and He will let us be His hands if we are willing. Another time I got a letter and treat for a family member. Sometimes it's strangers, sometimes friends or family, He guides us to those who need help.

This month I and the other young service missionaries also went to the temple to perform baptisms for the dead. The night  before, I realized that I didn't have any names to take. I called my Grandma Cuthbert to see if she had any, but she didn't answer. My neighbor has lots of names to take, but I couldn't get ahold of her and she wasn't home. I didn't have any, and the Ordinances Ready option on Family Search only pulled up temple, not family, names. So, I set to work to see if I could find one. I searched along one of my great, great grandmother's line, and found a grandchild of hers! In the meantime, my neighbor called back and gave me some names. I was able to take hers along with my name to the temple, and I could feel my realitive rejoicing, and my great, great grandma as well. God opened the doors up to help me find her, and then I was able to help my neighbor's family as well. My neighbor told me how she hadn't been able to go to the temple because the freezing weather messes with her health. She really wanted to go, but couldn't, and she felt bad about it. Then the next day I called her, asking for names. She was so elated! We did work for over 45 of God's precious children that day. It all just works out! God hears our prayers and knows our hearts. 

At the Orem Institute, there is a board on the wall that asks, "What is you word for the year?" It has pictures of people and their words. It got me pondering what my word for the year is. I decided TRY is my word. Sometimes it is awful hard to even get up, but as I TRY, God helps and magnifies my efforts. In the movie Ephraim's Rescue, Ephraim at one point washes his hands before proceeding to bless and heal a pioneer young man. The young man's mother observes, "Brother Ephraim, you are a holy man." 

To which he replies, "I have so many faults I cannot count them." 

"Then how do you do so much good?"

"I try."

I feel pretty inadequate in my own. It's hard to get out of bed on some days, maybe most days haha, it's hard to put on my running shoes and get out in the sunshine. It's hard to get out the house. It's hard to come back. It's hard to go on when depression seems to suck the life of of me. It's hard to pack a lunch, even! Anxiety tells me I'll be judged for what I pack. It tells me I'm not good enough, why even TRY? But Heavenly Father helps me, hold my hand, and comforts me. He magnifies my efforts, to the point where people say, "You're so good Mayli! You're a lifesaver and always helping others." I feel like I've hardly done anything, but I TRIED, and Heavenly Father does the rest. Our efforts don't need to be perfect to touch someone's heart, in fact God uses the weak things of the earth, "The weak things of the world shall come forth and break down the mighty and strong ones..." (Doctrine and Covenants 1:19). My scripture for my mission plaque reflects this, "Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed" (Doctrine and Covenants 123:17). 

We don't need to "run faster or labor more than you have strength and means," (Doctrine and Covenants 10:4) we don't need to be the answer to every single person, and we don't need to compare our efforts to others' efforts. We just need to do what we can, we just need to TRY our best. Take one more step towards the Life and Life of the world, and trust in Him.

"When things go wrong as they sometimes will, 

When the road you're trudging seem all uphill,

When the funds are low and the debts are high,

And you want to smile but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is strange with its twists and turns, 

As everyone of us sometimes learns,

And many failure turns about,

Into success'-because we stuck it out,

Don't give up though the pace seems slow,

You may succeed with just another blow-

Success is failure turned inside out,

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far. 

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit, 

It's when things seem worse-that you must not quit!"

(Don't Quit, I'm not sure who the author is. Google's uncertain too.)

When I came home from the Philippines, I definitely did NOT want to do anything that even mentioned the word mission. I told my Stake President, "No, I don't want to go back out." Nope, no way. Not even a service mission. Then, a few months later, I was sitting in the temple, and the Spirit said, "Service Mission." 

"Haha what are you talking about? I'm good right where I am. I'm still healing from that last mission. I really don't want to do that." 

The thought of a service mission, specifically the bishop's storehouse, however, continued to persist. I felt some peace, but as I left the Temple, my doubts and fears came back, and I still didn't want to do it. Heavenly Father knows me though, so He waited. I stewed over the prompting for a while, and finally acted on it, because I knew it was from Him, and He's a good guy to follow. So I finally did, even though it wasn't in my plan A or B or even Z. 

In Alma chapter 32, Alma says to his son, Shiblon, "And now, my son, I trust that I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and your faithfulness unto God..." Steadiness doesn't mean he never made mistakes. A gymnast on a balance beam might have to start with someone's help. They may need to put their hands out for balance. They may fall off. It may even hurt an awful lot, and bones might be broken! They may need to rest and heal for a period of time. When they get back on, it will take time to get used to the beam again and be on the same level as before. But as they TRY, they get better and better, and steadier. They still slip up sometimes, but the coach is there to help them get back up. 

What God was asking me to do was to get back on the balance beam. I really didn't want to, but God intends to make more of us than we could make of ourselves. As I TRY, He helps me. I have made more friends, opened my heart up for more healing, He has poured blessings into my life, and given me knowledge and strength. He is there, right beside me, helping me to TRY. It's hard, but full of joy as well. The point of life is to become more like Him, so even if we aren't flawless, as we TRY, our hearts change and we get closer to Him and more like Him.

And, so far, I really love the storehouse. It's so amazing to see someone come in, looking a little dejected and down, but they tend to leave with a smile and sunshine in their hearts. A smile, helping hand, or conversation really can lift a person's heart. It happens to me a lot there too! That place is full of love, hope, and faith. It's hard sometimes, but as I TRY He helps me.

What is your word for the year? What are you striving for? What is a challenge that God can help you with?

On the Sunday before Valentine's day, a member of the San Gabriel ward in the Philippines messaged me, asking if I would send a video message for Valentine's day. That's all they said, I didn't have a specific topic or time limit. I prayed, and the Spirit put an idea in my head, and the result is the video below. I was able to serve the Lord on His Sabbath day by sharing His love with others. It got my family involved too, and gave them a chance to remember God's love in their life, and get them excited to share their testimonies too. It wasn't about the topic for the Come, Follow Me resource, but it definitely got them engaged like how Come, Follow Me does, and it drew us closer to the Savior.

I've been reading scriptures in Spanish lately, and here is my testimony for y'all in Spanish! Lo siento si este es difícil a comprender haha! 

Yo sé que Jesús es El Cristo, la Luz, y la Vida del mundo. Él es mi Redentor y mi Salvador. El Padre Celestial ama yo, tú, y todos los hombres. La iglesia de Jesucristo de los Santos de los Últimos días es Su iglesia y es verdad. José Smith y Russell M. Nelson son propetas verdaderas. Si le seguimos Jesucristo, será bendito. Dios tiene un plano que es perfecto. En el nombre de Jesucristo, amén.

I love you all! 

Sister Keeley

Testing