A New Dream Found in Zion

Becoming a soldier was not just my dream, but my mother’s as well. Having spent many years living abroad with my family, I had long admired the sight of soldiers performing high-altitude parachute jumps on television. As soon as we returned to Korea, I began preparing to become a career soldier. My mother wholeheartedly supported me, proud that her daughter was pursuing the dream she herself had never been able to fulfill. From enrolling in an aviation technical school—where I gained relevant knowledge and earned certifications—to passing the non-commissioned officer exam, everything went smoothly. It almost felt as if the military were welcoming me with open arms.

But once my dream became a reality and a daily responsibility, everything changed completely. As a young adult who had not yet fully adjusted to Korean society, adapting to military life was even more challenging. It was only after I joined the army that I learned high-altitude parachute training was actually conducted in the Special Forces. In a way, I had rushed into this path with nothing but passion. My frustration grew as things continuously failed to go my way—whether it was unexpected assignments, difficult relationships with my superiors, or the struggle to master my duties. Because I had longed for and worked toward this dream for so long, this career had felt like my entire world. As I became overwhelmed by the reality right in front of me, I began to blame myself and gradually fell into a downward spiral of negative thoughts.

That was when Zion came to mind. Although I had practically grown up in Zion, I had only ever gone there because of my mother, so even I was surprised that the thought crossed my mind entirely on my own. I was desperate for a place where I could breathe, and deep down, I must have believed that my soul could find comfort in Zion, where God dwells. It took over an hour by bus to get from my military base to Zion, but when the church learned of my situation, they gladly arranged rides for me, relieving me of even the slightest burden. On the way to and from Zion, the comforting words of the pastoral staff and the Fragrances of Zion were like refreshing rain to my weary soul. Sometime later, the young adult guidance teacher began giving me rides, even though she lived in the complete opposite direction from my base. This continued for years. I was deeply moved by the members who consistently cared for me without ever showing the slightest sign of inconvenience, even though it must have been troublesome for them. Because of the love I received back then, now that I have my own car, I joyfully volunteer to give rides to other members.

The time I spent in Zion was a source of pure healing. I loved gathering with the members and studying the Bible. Moreover, the sisters’ warm consideration and thoughtful care brought me great comfort. Even on days when I was completely exhausted, I found myself heading to Zion, drawn by the thought of the members who were waiting for me.

Naturally, my goals in life began to shift toward spiritual hopes, and I started to see my circumstances in a whole new light. When I reminded myself of the blessed future God had promised, there was no reason to be shaken by the small words or actions of others. In fact, each day became so joyful and filled with gratitude that my fellow officers now often ask me how I can stay so bright and cheerful.

I also participated in a Zion education program for sisters serving in the military. Although we belonged to different branches and held different ranks, there were many sisters who shared the same struggles and were making the same sincere efforts to keep their faith in the military. Because of this, the reminder that God is always by our side to help us brought me even greater comfort.

Through human eyes, it had seemed as though I was overcoming every hardship all on my own. But when I looked back on those days through eyes of faith, I realized that the warmth I had felt in Zion was clear proof that God had been with me all along. Heavenly Father and Mother were continually sending Their love to each and every child in so many different ways. God being with me was no longer something vague; I could feel it deeply, and my heart overflowed with a desire to repay that love.

I am now in my sixth year of military service. Whenever I talk with my colleagues, I realize that many of them are deeply concerned about how to make a living. When people do not know the true purpose of life, such conversations always seem to end without any real answers. To my fellow service members, who are striving so hard for an uncertain future, I want to share the hope of an eternal and glorious life in heaven.

Once a goal is set, actions must follow. As one’s rank rises, it can be easy to become complacent, but I refuse to grow lazy. I will live humbly and diligently just as God has taught me, and share the love of Zion through positive words and good deeds. This dream—happier and more earnest than any other dream I have ever had—is one I truly want to fulfill.