Well, this last week was a little rough, but at the same time it was a good experience to realize how much this work is the Lord's work and not ours. I was a little higher on my horse with how well I was progressing and the Lord gave me some great opportunities to remember it's not about how great/talented/social/good looking/smart/hard working I am, if I don't remember why and who I am doing this for.
Other news. I ran out of vitamins...yeah. Not one of my favorite things. When I talked to the executive secretary of the mission, they hadn't arrived yet on Saturday, so I'll keep waiting. Presidente already knows, and I need the names emailed to him today and if you could send that to him ASAP, it would be good for him to know. He and Sister know a lot about medical things, so they like to keep informed. He reads English, but put the subject as "Elder Barton's Lista de Remedios". I would really appreciate it. I am doing okay, just a little stomach problems but nothing big.
We've been hearing little bits and pieces and we don't know everything, but we have been hearing that a big change is coming to missionary work. Our district leaders and zone leaders have had meetings for the past two weeks, and Presidente had a world wide broadcast for mission presidents with members of the 12 that we heard. One thing that changed is that we make the baptismal date on the 1st visit. If you follow the words in Preach My Gospel, almost no one will reject it, unless they really have no interest...and how we get into those houses I don't know. It doesn't really change that much for us, except they know why we are there at the beginning. It really helps sort out the people really quick.
That's about it. Tell the Barrys that Elder Barry is going to the best mission in the world.
I'll just type the message for Natalia:
The mission here is like nothing you thought it would be, and more than you thought it could be. It's hard forgetting about yourself, but when you do, it's worth it. When it's about what you want, how you feel, or what you expected, you'll just waste time. The mission here is one of harvest and planting. Many times you receive the fruits of other missionaries/members, but you also prepare the way for others. We are preparing this are for a temple. Even though it sometimes feels like you're all alone and no one wants to listen to you, there is always someone ready. Be ready to pray, fast, study and see miracles.
I guess that's about all the advice I could give/say to someone coming here.
-Please remember the medication list. Presidente was really worried, and he wants to know what he can do. He is one of the finest men I have ever met.
-How much is in my bank account?
-When does school start?
-Tell Fano and Caleb I think it's very noble that they went to the viewing (a senior football player from Springville High was killed in a car accident. The PHS football team went together to the viewing last night. Fano made a beautiful plaque at work with the young man's name and football number on it and presented it to the parents).
-Tell Eric, Jen, and their family that they are in my prayers. I am very proud of Eric. I feel like we're Captain Moroni and Helaman in the beginning of the war. He's Captain Moroni on the front and I am behind trying to make the world worth saving. There is some good in this world and it's worth fighting for.
Love you all,
Elder Barton
-the computer isn't working. I'll send pictures of my new jersey next week.
UPDATE:
I just barely spoke with the exec. sec. (that's what Dad's calling is!) of the mission. The packages got here today so I should only go 4-5 days without them. It should be here in Gama by Friday. Please still send the list to Presidente. Tell Sis Fitzgibbon, Obrigadissimo. You have to tell her it how I just used it. Hahahahaha. Love you!
Thank you, thank you,
Elder Barton
Tell me what you think of the stuff I sent. Hope Dad likes his.
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