I've always had the faith that the Church is true. I would go and pray about it because I wanted a cool experience that converts had or other members had, but I never received such answers in miraculous ways. I remember praying to know the truth about the church, and as I was saying amen there was a voice in my head that said, "You already know." I was amazed by receiving an answer so quickly and also by the answer I received. I was 13 when this happened. This was my foundation of faith. It wasn't until my mission that I learned more about the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the real help and guidance it provides. I loved my mission, but I also really struggled. I came to a point in my mission where I did not want to be there anymore. I was discouraged in every way possible, but I knew I couldn't go home. I was more worried about what people would say if I returned home early. I also believe I would have been disappointed in myself for returning home early as well and not helping those who did not know about the Gospel. I told my companion how I felt about everything and she didn't know what to say. She was there to help me, but she couldn't help solve what I was feeling. It was at this point that I realized that my faith in Jesus Christ and the Church wasn't enough. I actually had to call upon Christ and my Heavenly Father for help and strength. I did all I could to study about the Atonement of Jesus Christ and I prayed. It was a very difficult time, but through the Savior's help I was able to come up from a pit of despair. I could start to feel my Savior actually walking by my side each and every day. I learned of His love that He had for me and for everyone here on Earth. I guess what I am trying to share is that when all feels lost and there doesn't seem to be any color left in the world. Call upon the Savior and Heavenly Father. They want to help us and they know how to help us because they know us perfectly! They don't want to see us feeling lonely or in despair. They want us to live a happy life here on Earth and to see us overcome our trials by becoming even stronger through their help. They love us unconditionally! I share these things in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sarah
Oro Valley, Arizona