It Is More Blessed to Give Love Than to Receive

While tidying up my bookshelf, I came across a thick stack of papers—language study materials a sister prepared for me when I was getting ready for overseas mission work.

At the time, language was the first and most daunting hurdle. Aware of my limitations, I reached out to someone who had already experienced preaching overseas. A few days later, she handed me a neatly compiled packet she had created herself—a set of foreign-language preaching practice materials. Each word was thoughtfully annotated with phonetic transcriptions and accent marks to aid with reading and pronunciation. Whether in person or over the phone, she patiently answered my many questions. Thanks to her tireless support—both emotional and practical—I was able to prepare well and carry out my mission safely.

It wasn’t until I reached the point where I could form even simple sentences that I truly understood how much effort had gone into those materials. Choosing the necessary phrases, translating them, typing everything out, adding Korean phonetic guides, and marking the accents—all of it had taken time, care, and thought. These weren’t just study aids; they were a heartfelt gift, filled with encouragement and quiet, unwavering love. A wave of emotion swept over me along with a deep regret that I hadn’t expressed my gratitude more fully at the time.

Now, I pray for that member, who is currently preaching the gospel in a foreign land. I ask that she remain strong in both body and spirit, and that wherever she may be, she continues to reflect the heart of Heavenly Mother, giving love, living by example, and leading many souls to the truth.