The highlight of our week was Dan’s trip to Manila—we got to see him late Friday night and again on Saturday. After a long week of interviews and a day of training new missionaries, it was a welcome change and we had a wonderful prep-day afternoon with him. Conference weekend here. The weather turned hot--summer came in one day and now it's too hot and humid to even breathe, although the missionaries work in it all day long. They no longer mind the cold showers.
I've come to realize more than ever the importance of gratitude. All missionaries receive and benefit from their experience, but only a few express gratitude. It's about the same ratio as the ten lepers, as far as I can discern. Stewart received the kindest expression of gratitude from a missionary who returned home before Christmas. We often joked with him because when he ate at zone conference or MLC he would load his plate so high we were amazed that he could eat that much--he was a skinny elder. He especially loved Costco pizza and ate 11 slices at one meeting! He once mentioned that his family caught frogs and snakes to eat at home and that they tasted "pretty good." In his letter he apologized for eating so much and then said, "In my home we don't have the opportunity to eat expensive foods and desserts because of our poverty that's why I enjoy the food that you gave us. It may take me a long time to taste it again." He also thanked Dad for his feedback and his leadership and example.
I fall very short in expressing gratitude, especially to Heavenly Father. I find it difficult to "thank the Lord in all things" since it's difficult for me to see the good in them. I'm thankful for the example of this humble missionary (first and middle names "Mahonri Moriancumer") and many others who can see the good even in their failures and lost opportunities. The Lord is so very kind to us.
Love,
Mom
Photos
New missionaries -- still standing after five weeks
Dan's visit
Malolos zone after interviews
Stewart spoke a YSA devotional for local stakes -- I forgot to take a photo until they the people were mostly gone.
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