Life & Experiences of Emma L. Anthony

Value in the Journey

At the age of 69, one should realize that much of my life’s history has already been experienced long before the beginning of this blog.  However, as I’ve demonstrated throughout my life, it’s never too late to start.  My initial intention is to organize my blog into defined sections or topics rather than chronology.  As I expand on my writings, I will add and/or amend sections and topics.  That way, I won’t feel compelled to get everything in order before beginning, and I can also do much reflecting on the past.

Since at the current time I am serving an 18-month mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lubumbashi, I will begin my blog with my mission experiences.  I entered the MTC (Missionary Training Center) in Provo, Utah on December 3, 2013, and entered the mission field December 10, 2013.

Testimony:

I know that God lives and that Jesus Christ is my Redeemer.  I know that Christ has re-established his church in these latter days, patterned after the church he organized when he walked on this Earth, complete with the Holy Priesthood, divine ordinances, revealed scriptures, and sanctified temples.  All teachings of Christ are intended to help His followers to do good, be good, and appreciate everything good.  I know I’ve had angels guiding my life and protecting me.  They continue to do so today.  I’ve witnessed miracles that defy explanation.

I’ve been blessed with an incredible heritage and with a family whose love penetrates deep within my heart and soul.  I know that if I prove worthy and continually seek forgiveness for my sins and errors in life that I will be able to live with my family throughout eternity.

The events leading up to my calling to serve a mission in the DR Congo were divinely driven.  I have much to learn while I serve in the DR Congo, and I know I am in the love and care of Heavenly Father.  He is directing my paths, protecting me, and providing experiences that can sanctify me.  My prayer is that I can be the instrument in His hands that He needs me to be.  I am so mortal and human, that He still has a lot of work to do on me.  I dedicate my time and my life to Him so He can mold me for “Value in the Journey” that returns me to Him.

The Mission:

"Kum ba ya”  (“Come By Here” or “Come Near to Me”)
—No one knows exactly the origin of this song, but it was a spiritual sung by the African slaves along the coasts of South Carolina and Georgia.  We have taught this song to our Congolese members and missionaries.  They request to sing it at every singing opportunity.  They love to sing the lyrics in English.  The natives love to sing and they have very strong voices.  This song has become my personal theme while on my mission in Africa.

Kum bay ya, my Lord, kum bay ya;
Kum bay ya, my Lord, kum bay ya;
Kum bay ya, my Lord, kum bay ya,
        O Lord, kum bay ya.

Someone's laughing, Lord, kum bay ya;
Someone's laughing, Lord, kum bay ya;
Someone's laughing, Lord, kum bay ya,
        O Lord, kum bay ya.

Someone's crying, Lord, kum bay ya;
Someone's crying, Lord, kum bay ya;
Someone's crying, Lord, kum bay ya,

        O Lord, kum bay ya.

Someone's singing, Lord, kum bay ya;
Someone's singing, Lord, kum bay ya;
Someone's singing, Lord, kum bay ya,  
        O Lord, kum bay ya.

Someone's praying, Lord, kum bay ya;
Someone's praying, Lord, kum bay ya;
Someone's praying, Lord, kum bay ya,
        O Lord, kum bay ya.