I woke up at 2:00am to a phone call from my parents in Santiago, Chile, where they are presiding over the Santiago East Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. They explained that there had been an earthquake and that they may not be able to talk to us throughout the day or anything, but that they were ok and that they were trying to get a hold of all of the missionaries in their mission. They told me that they would try to call me later, but that they did not know if they would have internet. I sure was glad to hear that they were safe and sound. Later in the day we found out that all of their missionaries were safe and accounted for. My parents had just barely initiated an Earthquake Preparedness Plan for their entire mission, by prompting of the Holy Ghost.
Later in the morning, we learned that Hawaii, where my brother, sister and brother in law are attending BYU Hawaii, was under a tsunami alert! We spent the day calling them and trying to get through to their phones, explaining what would happen, what we were seeing on the news, and asking if they had enough food and water. It was kind of scary, but everything turned out well. When the tsunami alert was lifted, we were so relieved!
Many of our friends and family called us today to check on us and see how everyone was doing. We appreciate all of the concern, help, love and prayers offered for our family throughout today! You are all so wonderful.
It was a crazy thought that I could have lost my whole family in one day! I am so grateful for the Gospel and for the protection we have and the angels that watched over my family today!
Please pray for the people in Chile, there was much destruction and many people need help still. While I am grateful that my family is safe, I am deeply saddened for those who lost friends and family in this disaster. My prayers are with all the people affected by this incident.
We love you all and we know that with God, all things are possible.
