Well this is it. My last email that I will be sending out to you guys. I'll be honest this past week has been the most bittersweet experience I've ever had. Two years have passed, but it feels like 2 months. I spent 6 months in Cote d'Ivoire, 4 at home, then 7 in Arizona, and then the last 5 back in Cote d'Ivoire. No one could have guessed it. I think my mission has had more plot twists than the Twilight Zone. However, as much uncertainty, limbo periods, or unexpected changes happened, I always felt uplifted and strengthened by Savior through the thick and thin.
It all started with my training, I had no idea what I was doing. I was confused, scared, and my head was spinning. Even through all that, the Lord presented me scriptures and experiences to assure me that this is His work and that He will help me get through the hard times. He just expected me to continue. I felt the same as Paul when he said to the Corinthians:
1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
~ 1 Cor 2: 1-5
Even if I didn't know how to speak the language, and I was scared and tired, I could still lean on the Savior to strengthen me and empower me to bear testimony of His sacrifice for me. Even today I'm not perfect in teaching nor the language, but I know that the Gospel comes from God and I dont have to be afraid to share it!
As Oliver Cowdery was translating for Joseph Smith, he described the experience as... "These were days never to be forgotten." And I have the same sentiment as I look back at my mission. Never to be forgotten. If someone were to ask me, "Would you change it if you could? Get rid of COVID? Stay in your mission for the two full years?" As much as that would've been a pleasure to alleviate the pain and heartache of myself and so many other for the past two years. I think the Lord had other plans for me and for everyone. I would tell them no. My mission was crazy yes and it was definitely full of anxiety and disappointment, but I can definitely answer that question with a fervent NO. The time I spent at Arizona and even at home were such amazing experiences of growth, maturity, and perspective for me that I honestly wouldn't have gotten in my time here.
That being said, I have cherished every last moment here in Cote d'Ivoire. Such an amazing culture, people, and country. From a little kid freaking out because he's never seen a white guy before, to always being offered food and water wherever you go, even if you're a complete stranger. I'll miss this place with great and a deep love that I've honestly never felt before. I love these people. And I know that God loves them as well.
And to Arizona the thirsty land. Thank you for teaching me so many lessons such as personal accountability, adequacy for oneself, and consecration. Met so many wonderful missionaries, members, and people that have taught me amazing lessons that I will cherish for decades to come. Thanks to President and Sister Eyre for all of their love and guidance during those crazy months of COVID by keeping it light and fun but still taking the work of the Lord seriously as we should.
I'll get off my little soapbox here for the last time here in a minute but lastly I'd like to thank my parents, siblings, friends, and priesthood leaders for all supporting me though all of this and constantly letting me know that I was loved by God and by others! Special thanks again to President and Sister Lewis who have been such amazing examples of Christ-like leadership and discipleship. I'm so lucky to have been blessed with two amazing missions with two amazing mission presidents!
Well by the time you get this I'll probably be getting ready at the mission office and having departing interviews and testimonies! Our flight got moved from leaving at 10:30pm to 12:50am, so about 3 hours later. So we'll probably be chilling with the office missionaries until it's time to head out! I'll be going to Paris, then Atlanta, and then SLC at 5:30pm! I can't wait to see you all soon! On s'attrape!
Elder Perkins, signing off from the best two years(so far😉)
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