It's Been A While

It's been a while since I actually sat down and wrote a proper email for you all so I figure it was overdue. You know in missions there's a lot of the same things that happen each week as well as crazy things. This week I just wanted to tell you about some great people and my thoughts about my mission lately. First off, before my mission I was terrified of having a companion I didn't get along with. I had never truly fasted for something but in the months leading up to leaving I constantly fasted for that and that prayer has been answered. Each companion I've had has taught me a lot and I've loved every single one of them. Not to mention a couple of weeks ago transfers happened and I'm now with one of my good friends in the mission who I've already served around for 6 months before, Elder Jacobs. I love this man and it truly is just like living with a buddy from back home. Second, the people I have met so far have changed my life. More importantly the 3 latest people (Lorraine, Alice, and James) I've seen change their lives and find a new joy. I know these individuals were specifically prepared just for me at this time in their lives. Seeing the joy come into their lives gives me so much happiness and makes it all worth it. I love them so much and all the others I've taught and baptised as well throughout my mission. These people are going to raise families in the gospel and affect generations to come and it's just so exciting to get to see it all happen. Third, I love my mission. I'm at the point where this is just my life now and I'm happy with that. Don't get me wrong I miss my family and football like crazy, but these people I get to meet and interact with on a daily basis is something so unique that most people won't get to experience. I didn't know a lot before my mission but the things I'm learning and the testimony I'm gaining will last me the rest of my life. God doesn't change the world but he changes man and changed man can change the world. I've definitely been changed throughout my time here and I've seen the change come into others lives because of that. I remember last year at this time sitting In Hastings dreading my life and dreading waking up in the morning and looking forward to the day being over, but that was a kid who was selfish and thought he knew everything. Now I see a man who is still selfish but selfish in the way of loving being a missionary because it helps me grow and become better and learn more. I honestly love my Savior so much. I'm still learning and growing each day and I'm not where I wanna be or where I want my relationship to be with him, but little by little it's getting there. Good thing I still got a ways to go! I know this church is true and I know the Book of Mormon is the word of God. And the most important thing I know is that I will be with the coolest family in the world for eternity. I love them with everything in me and couldn't ask for anything better. They are my motivation each and every day. I love you all and keep being the great people you are. Ps I thought I would add in Lorraine, Alice, and James