** DAY 16 -- Is The Preparation Part of the Mission?

Today, I go back to the beginning.  Long ago, I heard of Elder Hollands counsel to seek for dreams and create visions.  I remember him saying that we needed to pursue them constantly.  He said that it was OK to rest once in a while, but to get up and continue in the pursuit of the dream.

I remember hearing many Brethren pleading for Senior Couples in the October conference.  Even before that, as I watched another couple, friends of Bonnie and I, from Perry going on a mission.  I remember sitting there wondering why we couldn't go at that time and wondering if we would ever get the chance.  I remember quietly shedding a few tears asking why?

I remember the day when we started this blog, one year before our 40th wedding anniversary anticipating the next year.  And of course, I can recall the events of this past year preparing in many different ways for MTC day.  With my aching body, my lists, my piles, and such, I realize that we are not too far away from that day.

It is interesting that dreaming about the circumstances of our upcoming mission is far away from my mind.  It is too filled with the things that we are doing and have to do to be ready to go.  I am striving to schedule the required tasks and events to assure that they are done before we leave.  I can't wait until we can lay these inconsequential things aside and dream of our upcoming life as missionaries.

I look at all the sacks of clothing, the new shoes, the new ties, the shirts that have to be taken out of the plastic and ironed.  I look at the large suit cases and the feel concern about the over weight, or over size penalty.  I know these things are important, but they sure take up most of my thought time.

Is it wrong?  Perhaps I should not stress over the getting ready, but I should just leave it in His hands, exercise faith in His control of all things.  I should not worry or be too concerned.  Is the getting ready for a mission part of a mission?  Can we depend upon Father to help things flow smoothly toward our departure?

I know that He will be there constantly with us as we are His servants, but does that extend to the preparation also?  Why fret so much?  Another lesson learned?