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“Why am I here?”
That was the question that kept echoing in my mind.
Back home, I had my life all planned out. I had a stable job, and in a few more years, I was ready to go wherever opportunity would take me. I was even set to sign with an agency that could help me pursue a better life abroad. Everything seemed to be in place. So why, instead of following that path, am I here as a missionary?
When I first applied for a mission, I did it without much thought. Somewhere along the way, while waiting for my call, I lost sight of my why. But being here in the Missionary Training Center reminded me of my true purpose.
Before my mission, I worked in the delivery room for a year. During that time, I witnessed moments of both joy and heartbreak—mothers who carried their babies for nine months only to deliver them stillborn, parents who never got to hear their child’s heartbeat, and women who received devastating news of illness. I held their hands. I prayed with them. That was the kind of service I envisioned for myself. A service filled with compassion, comfort, and care.
But deep inside, I knew there was a greater calling. A deeper kind of service I was meant to offer.
I began to think: How comforting would it be for these mothers to know the gospel?
How healing would it be to understand that their children are not lost forever?
How beautiful would it be to know that the Savior’s arms are always open, ready to welcome them with love and peace?
In that realization, my heart found its answer.
It feels good to be reminded of my purpose, especially in moments of self-doubt or struggle. I was chosen by the Lord to serve in these latter days, not because I am great, but because He can make me enough. My voice may be small, but with the power of the Holy Ghost, it can reach hearts and testify of Christ’s love.
I now see how my past experiences—the pain, the challenges, the quiet prayers—were all preparing me for this sacred work. They helped me build a sure testimony of the Savior’s love and Atonement, so I could share that same love with others.
I know that He lives.
I know that through His gospel, healing and hope are possible.
And that is why I am here, to help others feel the love and light of Jesus Christ, the same way I have.
SISTER BARROZO
Japan Nagoya Mission
September 2025 - March 2027