Things are Slow

February 28, 2011

Dear Aliens(I decided to not be boring and use something else up here),

Life is going in Stourbridge. It's been an interesting first 5 or so days... There hasn't been too much happening. It's more of me trying to help Elder Stein get used to the area. It's been good though. We still get along really well, which is good. I think that he will help me to become more optimistic about the area than what I became near the end of last transfer. It is a hard place to be, but isn't that where you grow the most? I definitely think I have! My teaching skillz may have degraded a little bit, but I have definitely learned more about myself and about life in general and how to work my life- come life after mission. I'm ready to grow soo much more and to start to change this area around. I'm ready to work my butt off this transfer and let God do the rest- since he's much better at everything than I am.

This week we have really been trying to get our investigators to progress, but we had major trouble contacting 2 of the 3. The one we were able to work a little bit with was Beth, Tasha's friend. We were able to talk to her a little about the Book of Mormon on Elder Stokes second to last day and she accepted our invite to be taught and learn more. On Wednesday, we then went with her and Tasha to institute(religious classes for young adults, aged like 18 to 30). I think she enjoys them, considering she has been asking Tasha if she is going and if she can come with. I'm excited for her and Tasha too, because she could become another friend for Tasha at the ward since there aren't very many young people in the ward.

This past week or so, I've loved reading from my Book of Mormon. It has just provided me with such insight on life and missionary work(not too surprised considering I've been reading chapters about missionaries in it). I happened to stumble along one of my favorite scriptures this week though. It is Alma 26: 27. This scripture is talking about the missionaries who have gone out to preach to the Lamanites and they were really struggling and getting tied up, thrown into prison, and all other sorts of things. Because of this, they were contemplating turning back and heading home, but then the Lord came to them and comforted them and said this to them: "Go amongst thy brethren, the Lamanites, and bear with patience thine afflictions, and I will give unto you success." I really like this one because it always comforts me when I run into hardships in life. I come out knowing that if I try my best to "bear with patience" my afflictions, or to just hang in there, that God will bless me with success in whatever I'm doing. I just love that. It really emphasizes to me the Love that God has for me and for all of you. Yes, we will face hardships and trials in life, but we then have the choice for how we face them. Will we give in a say 'Wo is me' or will we fight back and turn to God for help and strength to make it through. This principle isn't just for missionary work like it is for me and the sons of Mosiah in the scriptures, but it is for everyone in every situation.

I love you all soo much. I promise to be getting letters sent out this week! Today will be a nice relaxing P-day of rest and writing letters. So if I haven't responded yet, just know I'm trying my best and hopefully I'll get them out this p-day or next.

Just be happy! and I'll try my best.

Love,

Elder Hulet