I
had my second interview with President Russell this last week! It was
great, a whole 7 minute interview. Hahahaha he knows that I'm working
hard, being obedient, and baptizing. That's basically all he wants! This
last week we had a couple of miracles as far as baptisms go. The yearly
goal for the mission was 1800 baptisms. Yes 1800. We're really close,
but a little behind. And this week
the Bishop brought his nephew to church for like the fourth time, and
he's gonna get baptized this week! His name is Alexander. He's like six
two, super tall. And a really good baseball player! He's so awesome, and
I'm so excited to help him in this lil journey :) the plan for this
month was originally two, and now we're hoping for 4 this month :)
Ok
that's about it as far as the life here. But super importantly, today
is December 15th. Which means the Anniversary of my amazing parents. I
can't describe in words the gratitude I have for them, but I'm gonna try
anyway :)
I
don't have a lot of regrets from before the mission, but this is one of
them. That I didn't give my family enough love and attention. I'm
pretty sure they knew that I loved them and was grateful for them, but I
wish I would've given them more. Something I learned yesterday from the
mission is this: in life we pray and we pray and we beg for things,
and when we don't get them, we notice. But sometimes, we don't notice
when we DO get these blessings, kind of like they were expected. This
should never be like that. We as sons and daughters of God need to get
better at recognizing the everyday blessings, like somebody going to
church or two amazing parents and three amazing sisters. Yeah I felt it,
but I didn't truly come to recognize until here in my mission that I
was literally placed into the perfect family for me. My mom is an
absolute rock of a person. She has been my #1 fan from day one, and has
been there to help me every step of the way. I have never seen
her example waver. Never once. I promised myself I wouldn't tell the
story to my Dad until after the mission, but on July 20th, my Dad
changed my life forever. And I will never be the same. My two older
sisters are the two hardest working girls I know, with once again,
unwavering examples. And my lil besty Annie is such a light to so many
people. I could not have grown up in a better home. A home centered on
the Rock of our Savior Jesus Christ (Helaman 5:12). And for that I will
forever be grateful. Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad :)
Also
wanna give a quick shout out to my life long best friend Elder Hanson
for finishing up his mission in Brazil this week. As I was reading his
final letter home, it brought absolute tears to my eyes seeing how
strong he has become and how much he came to love the people. I know
that he truly fulfilled his purpose of inviting others to come unto
Christ. Love you Colin :) congrats and Go Aggies!
Well
that was kind of personal and off topic, but hopefully we can all come
to develop more gratitude for the amazing blessings that we receive
every single day. I love you all so much and I'm so grateful for the
support :)
Love,
Elder Merrill
No comments:
Post a Comment