Last year in Price, Utah, a speaker at the institute Friday Forum spoke about being a part of the NSSA. She then explained that this stands for the No Sister Sits Alone club. Ok, it's not an actual club, but it's about a personal decision that can have an amazing impact on you, and many others lives. It's fairly self explanatory in the name, but becoming a member of this club has allowed amazing changes to take place in my life.
Starting in a new ward can be an adventure, especially when you're talking about a singles ward. Singles wards change so much, that there are many that simply slip under the radar. Some who want to, and others who don't know what else they can do. Coming home to Bountiful when all my friends were either getting married, going on missions, or not in bountiful was a lonely thought. So, I decided I would become a part of the NSSA. I was a little bit shy when I was younger. And saying hello to complete strangers, that was sure to see again, whether I wanted to or not, did not seem like the most appealing, but I felt it was what I should do. I wanted to be that confident, outgoing, and social girl that I knew I was inside. I also knew that I couldn't expect others to say hello to me, when I couldn't do the same for them. I knew I could do this. The morning of my second Sunday in the new ward, I prayed really hard before I left. All I wanted while I was at church was someone I could sit by. For whatever reason, both Kellie and I were about 2 minutes late. As we peered into the chapel looking for seats, I asked if she wanted to sit by me. She said yes, and we headed in together. She was so nice, and I was happy to have found a friend. Later that day, I found out that she was just as new as I was. The best part is, that we had both been praying that morning to find someone to sit by. I was so glad that the Lord had helped us find each other.
Since then, I have tried to be more consistent in making sure that no sister sits alone. It's not just at church that people need a friend. I have been in school at the U for a month now, and the amount of friends I have been able to make through ensuring no one sits alone, including myself, is amazing! Many of the girls and guys I have sat by, have not turned into much more than a friendly acquaintance, but for me, often times that has been more than enough. Sometimes all we need to have a better day, is a friendly face. Feeling that someone cares, and wants to be your friend, can make all the difference in the world.
Through becoming a part of the NSSA, I have met people from all different backgrounds, in very different situations. I have been able to help some, and many have helped me. It still amazes me at how many blessings can come from a complete stranger. As I continue throughout my daily life, I realize how much my life is truly a mission. I am an example for what I believe, and want to give others the opportunity to find happiness. Life won't last forever. And when I'm in a funk that happens to all missionaries at one point or another, I simply need to stop, forget myself and go to work. Being a part of the NSSA is just one way I can be an everyday missionary. Receiving the friends and blessings that come from being a part of the NSSA, are just a few other ways that make my life big and wonderful.
