Ok. My bad. Transfer planning was this past week, but I didn't realize that it was a week early because of Thanksgiving. So I'll find out whether I go or stay. But thank you for your encouragement. :)
How did your baptism go? Did he get confirmed on Sunday?
The baptism went sooo well!!! He has a super strong testimony and is willing to do what he can to serve the Church and God. I had the privilege of confirming him a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and conferring upon him the Gift of the Holy Ghost. That was a very happy, peaceful experience. I smiled right after I said the words, "Receive the Holy Ghost." It just felt good. :)
What was your best experience this week? Your worst?
I had many great experiences this week. One was bad turned good. Things kinda came to a head between my companion and I, but through lots of talking, reading the scriptures and praying we are much better now. I love my mission. It teaches me so much about life. Also, the baptism and confirmation was awesome, we made cookies and got into so many doors with them, so many lessons, and we're leading the zone in lessons! The worst experience was meeting a man who served a mission and has not been to church in several years. He said he fully understands the church, and has found that he's happier not going to church than going. He still believes in it all, but he doesn't understand like he says he does. He didn't like us coming by, and doesn't really want us coming back again. I think of the quote "If Satan cannot get you to do what's wrong, he will get you to do nothing at all." Then doing wrong things come. But it's a good experience to learn from.
What have you learned?
I learned that if you let it, a mission can change you and how you live and treat others in the future. I learned that if you are not careful in your thinking and actions, Satan can lead you astray without you realizing it. Don't fall into that trap. I also learned that I can be positive if I try. Some days I just didn't feel like trying. I also learned that cookies bring miracles. :)
How was the 5K? (Did you die?) :) (Mom's note: Their mission ran a "Fit for the Kingdom 5K" today.)
The 5K was great! It didn't feel like a 5K. It felt more like 2 miles. I got 24:05 for my time - not shabby for overall. My goal was 21:40 or less, but that's ok. I got maybe 20th? That doesn't matter, but it was fun. My comp and I ran with BoMs in our hands - his was Russian, mine was English. We held them high as we sprinted to the finish. I was also able to help Elder Neville reach his goal. Man, that guy is a stud.
As far as other things go, we did service for a handicapped man putting up his Christmas lights. On his roof. And you know how scared I am of heights. And even crazier... his roof was steep at one point, so to get the lights down the other side, Elder Osthed had to hold my ankles on one side of the roof while I was on my belly on the other. If he had let go, I would've gone right over the edge. Trust exercises are the best! :D Oh, the stupid things missionaries do...
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| Proof that he and his companion are getting along. :) |
I've been asked to play violin a ton out here. I played for the baptism, I'm playing for a funeral. Lots of opportunities to play. I just wish I had a better violin. But I would not be allowed to use any other than a members'. Oh, I'm also singing for a Christmas devotional in December, and playing on Christmas night at the Mesa Temple Visitor's Center, and singing Christmas songs with the entire mission!!!! That's going to be beautiful!!!
Love you all!
Love,
Elder Stowell
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