I know most people do not celebrate the Chinese New Year in the states, but here it is a huge holiday, almost like Christmas. So everything shuts down and the only things that are open are the big grocery stores and fast food like McDonalds (of course!).
It is tradition to give "kids" red envelopes with money in them, but as missionaries we give all the money we receive to fast offerning as it is extremely rude to reject their gift. As missionaries Chinese New Year is nothing special for us besides the fact that it is super hard to go "finding" because there are so few people out. It is a big family centered holiday, which is great.
We were able to find and pray with a few people. Most of them were from Mainland visiting. I have found that we do a lot of seed planting and just have to pray and hope they will become part of the visitors program later on, as preach my gospel says "no effort is wasted" and I constantly have to remind myself of that. Although I may not be seeing the fruits of my labor I am opening my mouth and sharing the gospel, which is what I am asked.
I have realized how special it is to be in Hong Kong because I live with 2 other sister missionary companionships. It has taught me the importance of making good friends. The spirit that exists in our apartment is just different because we are all united in purpose and all love our savior. Sometimes when I finish praying and look around to see 5 other sisters also praying to end the night, it just reminds me how it is so cool to know and to see!
Now with that being said, this week we had the opportunity to go with the Filipino sisters we live with to their branch presidents home. This is probably like our 3rd time at their house, but each time I am continually surprised and amazed by the spirit in that house. They are amazing examples of selfless service and humility. They give and give and give.
After cooking us dinner, giving us all the leftovers, they offered to pay for our bus fare home. Why? Because they are humble enough to know and see the blessings in their very simple life because of their service. They are one of the most amazing families, and I have learned so much from their dedicated service.
Well that is about it! Sorry, Chinese New Year means there are not a lot of things that happened, but I sure did learn a lot. Like rejection is a good sign. The more you are rejected, the closer you are to finding that one person the Lord has prepared. May we all have a goal this new year to share the gospel with our friends!
Wo ai nimen.. I am extremely grateful for all the love and support you send my way :)
Sister Loo
P.S. Fun fact, in Hong Kong there is like no concrete. The sidewalls are made of bricks put together, which lots of time means it is uneven.
Oh and on Monday someone asked sister Chi if I was pregnant hahahaha. I am going to say they asked because I was wearing a lot of layers and not because I look pregnant haha.
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| Tina and her little siblings. We met her at a different park and shared the restoration with her. |
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This was just randomly in a park we went finding out. SO many buddhas!
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Nash family (they both served in Taiwan)
Tradition to wear these red things on New Years.. how cute are they!
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