Monday, August 18,2009
Hi Mom!
That's exciting that you got a new bishopric! That's random that the counselors have the same last name! I would LOVE to go to California next summer on vacation. I secretly hoped we could- serving in Pusan in the summer reminds me of California summers at the beach. I've heard someone describe it call it the California of Korea. And President Jennings is fine with parents picking up their missionaries- I've seen two cases recently when parents came to pick up their sons. I think he would understand if you came- especially because Dad served here! Just for your info :)Tell Brooke and Chris I wish them a great first day at school on Thursday! Brooke, that's so exciting that you're starting high school! You'll have to tell me all about it. And how does Chris like his uniform?? haha- I love you all so much!
This week we were blessed to be able to teach some new people in unexpected places. We went to visit an investigator (Jang Song-Young) whose friend happened to be there with her. Because we had two companionships there, the elders were able to teach her while we introduced the gospel to her friend. It was natural and worked out wonderfully! We left a Book of Mormon with Jang Song-Young's friend and should be able to meet with her again this week. We were able to take Jang Song-Young to church and met her afterwards to teach the first lesson. She had read the intro of the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith's testimony and is excited about church! It's amazing to teach someone who seems to be so open to the principles of the gospel. I've seen how our companionship is really blessed when we're in tune with the Lord.
Serving in three branches is a challenge, but Sis. Musser, Sis. Beckstead, and I are figuring it out! We've been keeping busy with meeting investigators and building relationships with members of the branches. Sis. Musser, Sis. Beckstead and I have been talking about how much our missions are changing us for the rest of our lives. I have come to love the gospel in a way that I never felt before. As we continually teach the principles of the gospel, I realize that it really is the way we can find happiness. I am so thankful for the Atonement of Jesus Christ and that I can share our message of happiness with others. I know Heavenly Father loves us and wants us to make the most out of our lives- we can do that by following the Savior's example. I am learning so much about what is truly important in life- and especially about scheduling time! Sis. Beckstead mentioned that sometimes people say they don't have time for scripture study, but are their days filled to the brim with other really productive activities? Not usually... I have gained a STRONG testimony of using our time wisely. Wasting time is nonsensical! There is so much we can do with our lives. Why waste it with useless time on the internet or t.v.? I think the key phrase is "moderation in all things." We can live a healthy, balanced life as we continually strive to improve ourselves. Serving a mission really is a refining process. It's true! But our whole lives can be a refining process too. So make the most out of it!
Thanks everyone for your support! I hope you're all enjoying the end of the summer! Oh, and Mom, can you send me Sheri's address? I need to write her! Thanks! You should be able to contact her on Facebook, I think.
Love you!
Alyssa