Was Russia Your First Choice for Your Mission Trip?
When serving an LDS mission, you don't get the luxury of choosing your mission destination. Instead, the experience can be a bit surreal, as you receive a letter in the mail that tells you where you will be serving. This article delves into the compelling story of one LDS mission experience and how it differed from expectations and beliefs.
The Unexpected Destination
When it comes to choosing where to serve, the official process is rather straightforward: you are asked to complete paperwork that includes a couple of key variables. The first is a sliding scale ranging from 1 to 10, asking, 'How much would you like to learn a foreign language?' The second is, 'How much would you like to serve internationally?' For these categories, I gave myself the highest score possible, a 10. Furthermore, I had several years of Spanish and considered myself fairly proficient compared to the average student, but I assumed I would be directed to a South American destination.
Unfortunately for me, none of my meticulous planning and high aspirations landed me this dream location. To the contrary, I was assigned to Russia. It is important to note that while I don't use Russian much in my day-to-day life now, the experience is one I will cherish forever.
The Harsh Reality of Living in Russia
The reality of living in Russia was far more challenging than any experience I had encountered before. It was incredibly difficult and taught me what it takes to truly be successful - not just hoop-jumping high school successful.
Russia is a vast and complex country, with a rich history and a unique culture. Life in Russia offered a stark contrast to what I was used to, and the culture shock was significant. The language barrier was a constant challenge, and adjusting to the climate and way of life took a considerable amount of effort. However, it also provided an unparalleled opportunity to grow and develop personally and professionally.
Lessons Learned from the Russian Mission
The experience highlighted the immense differences between being successful in a classroom setting and being successful in the real world. The transition from a theoretical, confined environment to a practical, challenging setting required a significant shift in mindset. This experience taught me about true resilience and perseverance, and how these traits are essential when facing daily challenges.
One of the most significant lessons was the importance of adaptability. Living in a country with different values and norms required flexibility and an openness to learn and grow. It also emphasized the importance of preparation and learning before embarking on new missions or challenges. While I may not have been able to speak Russian fluently, I certainly expanded my horizons and gained a new appreciation for language and cultural understanding.
A Cherished Memory
Despite the difficulties, the experience in Russia remains a cherished memory. It taught me invaluable life skills and provided an opportunity to overcome challenges that I would not have encountered anywhere else. Whether it's handling a day-to-day task or navigating a complex situation, the skills and lessons learned from serving in Russia have proven to be irreplaceable assets in my life.
In conclusion, while my initial expectations may have been for a South American destination, the Russian mission was a formative and enriching experience. It taught me about true success, adaptability, and the value of stepping out of my comfort zone. This journey, while filled with challenges, provided a unique and rewarding path that I will always hold close to my heart.