In Culiacán, Mexico

Hi, I’m Deseret! I’m 17, and there are seven people in my family.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I had to find new things to do. I paint, fix and make clothes, paint nails, listen to music, watch movies, and spend time with my family. I also make different kinds of necklaces with my family.

My mom is a special education teacher. During summer vacation I help her with the kids she teaches. I have one more year left of high school. After that, I want to become an international flight attendant or be a special education teacher, just like my mom. I also want to travel.

Being a Member in Mexico

My friends at school used to try to get me to do or say things that are against my standards, but now that they know I’m a member of the Church and what I stand for, they respect my boundaries.

I know that as I strive to keep the commandments, I’ll be perfected through Jesus Christ. My testimony gives me the strength to keep going. I know I’m a daughter of God. I can be an example and stand up for what I know is true. I’m glad to know that I can help others come closer to Christ.

The Hermosillo Mexico Temple is the closest temple to me. The first time I visited the temple with my youth group, I felt a lot of peace. I’d never really felt that way before.

I’m preparing to make covenants in the temple by taking temple preparation classes at home and studying the lessons.

My sister and I are the presidents of our Young Women classes. Every other week when we meet as youth, we share things we learn from Come, Follow Me. I’m surprised by how much I’ve enjoyed hearing their thoughts and sharing my own.

Preparing for a Mission

My parents both served missions in Mexico. I’ve wanted to go on a mission since I was about 15 years old, so I’ve been preparing to serve. My younger brother turns 18 when I turn 19, so we will turn in our mission papers at the same time. I’m saving money for my mission by working with my mom. I have a small jar that I put my money in, and I’m trying to fill it. I want to bring more people to Christ and His Church to bring good into their lives and mine.

I’ve been sending scriptures through social media. I take quotes and phrases from the Church’s website and send them to my friends on social media. The missionaries also give us copies of the Book of Mormon, and I love to give them to my friends.