Swimming with Whale Sharks

South Cebu - Swimming with Whale Sharks and Canyoneering

 The second week of the temple closure, we traveled to the southern part of Cebu, where we got to swim with whale sharks—a fun and crazy experience! 

Then we went canyoneering, which was even crazier. It started with a 1 km zip line ride, which was very cool.

 After the zip line we hiked down into a canyon with a river featuring several waterfalls and slides. It was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.

Unfortunately, about halfway through, my foot got caught between two rocks and twisted pretty badly. I tried to keep going, but it was quite painful, so I told the group that at the next opportunity, I would see if my guide could take me out while they continued. However, everyone decided to head out as well, so we missed the last and most beautiful waterfall. Honestly, it was a grueling trek, and I realized how sadly out of shape I am! Even though I enjoyed it, I probably wouldn’t attempt it again. We later found out that they don’t recommend it for people over 60! While most groups had one or two guides, we each had our own personal guide, and I am so thankful for that. I’m still hobbling a bit but should be fine to get back to the temple tomorrow.

Since we are missionaries, I want to end on a more spiritual note. Last week in Come, Follow Me, we studied Doctrine & Covenants 18. In verses 10–13, we read about the worth of souls. In the Follow Him podcast, they said something that really resonated with me. The guest asked, What is something worth? They concluded that something is worth what someone is willing to pay for it. Then he compared that to us and the worth of our souls. Our Savior was willing to pay the ultimate price for us, suffering beyond what we can comprehend. He willingly did it for all of us collectively but also for each one of us individually. Each of us is of infinite worth. I hope we can always remember that, especially during times when we feel we don’t measure up.

I’m so thankful for the gospel and for the knowledge of our Heavenly Father’s plan, which includes our loving Savior’s Atonement. That is why we are here in the Philippines serving—to show our Savior how much we love Him and how grateful we are for all He has done and continues to do for us.