9. Open When... you’re frustrated with the language

If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his

head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.

Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.

Dear Hermana Moon,

I cannot begin to describe how much torture you can put yourself through by letting yourself get frustrated with the language. Trust me, it does not help, nor does it work. All you can do is practice, and pray. If you have the Holy Ghost with you, you can teach. You will get the language. It will take time, and a lot of work. But that is part of the mission. Every North American down there has had the same experience. Ask them what helped them learn. They oftentimes have some really good advice. But the most important thing is that you are not afraid to make mistakes. Don’t be afraid of saying the wrong thing. Most of the time the screw ups make great stories that you will be able to look back on and laugh at. While I was in the CCM (MTC) one of the sisters told the whole class she was “embarrasado” (which she thought meant embarrassed, but actually translated to pregnant). We had a great laugh about it.

You will have those moments where you feel like you have no clue what anyone is saying to you, and you won’t know how to respond. But don’t be hard on yourself as you are learning. Picking on yourself is not something that is inspired by the Lord. Satan will try to get you frustrated and down on yourself. Do not let him have the satisfaction. Stay positive. Be nice to people. They will see your kindness and your beautiful smile, and they will want to listen to you. Even in broken, mispronounced, and sometimes the absolute wrong Spanish. They will admire you for your effort in learning Spanish, and many will try to help you out. Embrace the language. Embrace the people. You’ve got this girl!

Te quiero mucho!

Con amor,

Heather

Be not so much concerned about what you do, but do what you do with all your heart, might, and strength. In thoroughness is satisfaction.

The greatest achievement that can be reached in

our lives is to be under the complete influence of the Holy Ghost.

A warm smile is the universal language of kindness.

“You can depend on the Lord.”

–Henry B. Eyring

Doctrine and Covenants 33:10, 100:6, Moses 6:31-32

http://tipsforsistermissionaries.blogspot.com/2013_03_01_archive.html#uds-search-results

it’s up to you to determine how long those 30,000 mistakes with take! Open your mouth.

“I will open the hearts of the people and they will receive you”

“Open your mouths and they shall be filled, and you shall become even as Nephi of old who journeyed from Jerusalem in the wilderness” D&C 33:8