Well family,
It's officially fall - leaves are changing colors, everyone's wearing jackets, and temps are down to 50...just kidding! I'm in Arizona - there aren't any leaves to change colors, everyone's still sporting shorts and tanks, and we're still sweating buckets in this 95 degree weather. Love it!
Pancho (mi abuelito) is doing great! We went to teach him a lesson the other day and asked if he had any concerns or question. He told us, "Yes, I want to know what the restrictions/rules are in your church." I was a little hesitant at first to explain the 10 commandments, Word of Wisdom, Law of Chastity, and Tithing because this could become a "do or die" if he didn't like what he heard. But then I realized we teach doctrine, truth, so if we allow the spirit to work through us to testify to him of these things, all is going to be fine. After we explained everything, Pancho sat there for a while quietly and then said, "Okay, I can do that. I'll have to change some things but with God's help I know I can do all of those things." Holy cow, what a great example for me - aren't I supposed to be the teacher?!
Luis (ex con) is progressing too! While we were teaching him last week we had a funny experience. We were getting to the end of the lesson - the climax, bearing testimony, promising blessings, the really good stuff - and then this lady walks outside and starts motioning for us to come. Luis asked if we knew her because he didn't and there wasn't' anyone else outside. She looked panicked and kept saying, "Ven!" I asked is she needed help and she said "yes, hurry!" I sprinted over and as I got closer I saw that she was sweaty and panicky. I started to worry, wondering what was wrong and asked what she needed. She looked at me, motioned toward her kitchen table and said, "can you please open my juice bottle?"....
Weirdest street contact last night. A man and woman with three foster kids they've adopted - "I want to be honest with you, this is my religion" (pointing to his kids). "I don't care what color they are - black (points to daughter), yellow (points to Mexican son),...Mexican" (points to Mexican son's twin sister). "I invite you to have kids." "Well, I need a husband first." "No you don't! I hope to see you in a few days with a child in your arms." Yep, definitely gave that referral to the Elders!
Conference is Christmas! We get the chance to hear from a prophet of the Lord? BLESSED! I learned a TON but one of the biggest things the Spirit taught me was how we literally choose our destiny. The choices we make today, not only effect tomorrow but forever. Decisions determine destiny. We are counseled to avoid bondage of any kind - bondage comes from disobedience. Be obedient. Elder Dube said, “The past is to be learned from, not lived in. Faith is always pointing to the future.” I love how wise Heavenly Father is. He has the big picture and knows what we need - the trials and experiences, joys relationships, everything - to help us reach exaltation and everlasting happiness. I love Him. Learn from the past, from your trials, and have the faith and determination to do better.
Thanks for all the updates! Madi, brace-face and four eyes?...I'm sure you've never been more attractive! :) Sara it sounds like your killing it with soccer! Score some points for me, 00hottie;) Maren and J, I miss you two, too! I promise to not grow any more if you promise to stop growing, deal? It's so awesome to hear about all the people getting their mission call/getting married (send pics)! There is always room to progress in the gospel! I pray for you everyday and love hearing form you - siempre estan en mi corazon!
Hermana Stewart
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