June 29, 2009

Hey how are you all doing? Jr and Clint i got a question for you guys.. Okay so what did you guys do to really help you with learning the language? Cause like this past week i have just immersed myself in it! Every little bit of free time i have i study. I ask my companion constantly how you say things. I just wanna know it all! haha So what did you guys do that really helped you learn? I read out loud alot and study grammar and just try and memorize words each day. I go to translate for the first tme this past Sunday... I was way nervous. Its pretty hard to do. You gotta listen to what they say, then quickly figure it out in your head then keep up with them at the same time. haha It was tough but i think i did alright. We had another really good week, we have really been working hard with getting member present lessons, cause if the investigators got a friend they are more likely to stay. We are setting a date with Azucena tommorow. I went on splits a few times this week with an english Elder, cause my comp is District leader, so that meant that i was all alone teaching but i like doing that it really pushes me. Our little group of hispanics is really strengtheneing we have a pretty solid group of about 8 or 9 each week, then a few investigators. We also had interviews with the president this last week. I always look forward to those. Just cause i love to be taught by President. We also talk with the assistants for a bit before we get interviewd by President, and the assistants told me alot of nice things, they were just like we see so much potential in you and we know that you are going to be a great leader for the spanish missionaries in the mission, they told me that they want me to really learn what it takes to baptize, because they need spanish missionary leaders who know how to baptize. Then my Interview with president was great he just complimented me alot, and said im a great missionary and that its truly an Honor to have me in the mission. I thought that meant alot to me, especially coming from someone of his authority! haha so it was great to get the confidence boost. We also have another guy for baptism on the 11th of july his name is Uriel! he is from Costa Rica. He is soo cool, we went and did a church tour with him this week, and he just loved it, he loved all th epictures of christ. Its so cool to interact with all different hispanics all over the world. Each day just gets better and better i find my desire to serve growing each day. Like i literally just go 150% cause i know the Lord is lifting me up keeping me going. I have learned also that its true when the Savior said mine elect will hear my voice. Usually those that are really interested are interested from the beginning, i have learned that we need to not waste our time, like time with people who are not progressing but constantly looking for more so that we can find more. I also told president that im at my best when im in my finding mode. When that is all that is on my mind is finding, talk to someone if not interested... Bam ask them if they know anyone that is.. If they say no... Bam on to the next person. Its just so great to keep busy and constantly finding new people. The Savior's Elect will hear his voice and follow. I love it. We give everyday our all, and even then some. I know that even as im teaching the people i am now the Lord is preparing more for me to share this with. I love this work so much. It has grown so dear to my heart, i only wish that i had more than just two years to do it. Tell everybody hi and that i love them. This week was great and the next will only get better. Hopefully within the next few weeks we should have a few more baptisms. Ill send pics soon. I just get so busy or forget haha. Love you guys. Have a great week.

Love always,
Elder Riding