That Time I Almost Got Shot

Hi everyone!

This week was a little bit more exciting than others. On Thursday, we were at our apartment getting ready to walk out the door when we heard something that sounded like gunshots. Sister McCrite wasn't convinced, however, and we left to go make some appointments. When we returned for lunch, there were police swarming our apartment complex. It turns out that there had, in fact, been gunshots. The police were there for about five hours searching for things and talking to people. I don't know too much but, apparently, there was some sort of dispute that ended in gunfire. Crazy, huh? Cornelius isn't super dangerous but sometimes it's a little ghetto. This week definitely showed that.

I'm getting transferred! But they changed it so that instead of moving today, I'm moving tomorrow. I don't know where I'll be going but it'll be exciting. I know that the Lord has a plan for our lives, for my life. It is a specific, detailed plan that includes such little things as where I'm going to be spending the next six weeks. I trust Him; He knows.

Out of everything and everyone, one of the things I'm most sad about is leaving Sister McCrite. We've just had the best time together these last four-and-a-half months. She truly is one of my best friends and I know we're going to be friends forever.

There are a lot of other people here as well who have impacted my life forever. One of those is Sister Nissinen. She is the kindest, sweetest person I've ever met. She took me into her family and always made me feel at home and welcome here. 

Another is Sister Podwys. Seriously, one of the most anchored people I have ever met. She's had a lot of really tough trials in the past year and I've learned so much from her example and from her strength. 

Another person I've come to love a lot is Sister Manso. We would go over every Wednesday to teach a lesson to her and her family. We also synced all our Ipad stuff there every night so we had a lot of conversations sitting out on her porch. She has had the most unreal life. She taught me a lot about listening to the Spirit and the awareness that Heavenly Father has of each of us.

Maria has taught me a lot about mothers and how deep a mother's love runs. I have been forever touched by the never ending generosity her and Carlos have shown me, despite their most humble of circumstances.

Serving here in Cornelius has been amazing. I love this area, I love these people. Both the Spanish branch and Council Creek (the English ward we've worked with) will always be dear to me. It's a bittersweet feeling for sure.  I'm excited for new things and new adventures but I'm leaving a little piece of my heart here.

Until next week!

Love,

Hayley

Note from Mom:  I have to admit, I was a little nervous reading the subject line of her email but then relieved once I got to the second paragraph. Honestly,  I know she is in His hands, doing His work and that He is watching over her so I am not really that concerned.  I am grateful for her experiences in Cornelius, for the people who loved her and taught her great life lessons.  So excited to hear where she lands next and for all that lies ahead for her!