Don't cry for me, Ukraiiina. Truth is, I never meant to leave you.

Well.

Where to begin.

Yesterday during church I was overcome with feelings of love and admiration for this branch, for these people that I have had the chance to serve around, and for this country. I listened as each person got up to bear their testimony of this great work. I wish everyone could hear a testimony meeting filled exclusively with converts to the church. They bear strong, real, firm testimony of their Savior, of the Restored Gospel, of the Book of Mormon, and of the love of God.

I began to tear up, knowing that my time in Ukraine was coming to a close. I didn't realize that I would be going home so soon....

President called me early this morning with the news that I'll be home this week.

He asked me if I could be on the next train to L'viv, and I told him that I would leave first thing tomorrow. I just couldn't imagine leaving my mission on a note like that, and I have a few people I wanted to hug and kiss goodbye before they unexpectedly remove me from what has been my home for the last 7 months.

Due to this war, of sorts, that is happening around the country, my heart is breaking. I have grown to love these people more than I ever imagined. I not only have a deep love for them, but I feel as if a large part of my heart has been filled with Ukraine. It will never go away. I will never really "leave" this country. I LOVE UKRAINE. I am so devastated right now, and I can't even think straight.

This morning I had a very tender experience, and I know that the Lord is mindful of me. And astonishingly enough, I am very at peace. It's beyond belief.

I don't even know where to start. This mission experience has been the ride of my life. It has been remarkable beyond words, and I am so very grateful that my Father in Heaven knew that I needed this. He knew that I would love this more than any other mortal experience to this point. He knew that I needed the people here. He always knows best. He always seems to orchestrate my life, and lead me down unknown paths to stretch me, to try my faith, and to give me the chance to put my full trust in Him.

I am a different person than when I left. I will forever be changed by the people of Ukraine. I love these people so much, and am grateful to them for their love, and their child-like desire to follow their Savior. Their example inspires me each day. May the Lord bless this nation, and these people, that the work may continue to roll forth.

This is the Lord's work. I am honored to be a servant of Him.

З Богом,

Sister Kathryn Webber