Elder Ethington: 6 Months

Ok, I know it technically isn't 6 months yet. But its tomorrow, so I'm just going to go with it. Anyway.

So a review of this week. We had zone conference on Tuesday, which was awesome. President and Sister Manion gave great trainings on the heart, and family history work. I really enjoyed that. And seeing a whole bunch of missionaries, a few of whom will go home at the end of this transfer, which can be just a bit sad. But they've served well, and they're good people. The highlight of the conference though was definitely mail. I've been waiting several weeks for packages and letters to reach me, and I finally got them. All. And I got a Cantonese Phrasebook so I can start trying out some of that. But I am waiting for the new Mandarin Elder to come, because he speaks Mandarin, Cantonese, and English. If I get to be companions with him, I think it will give me a great chance to learn.

The other event of this week was Saturday, which was our Social Media Blitz day. We had people following us all day, taking pictures and posting them on Facebook. It was a great chance for people to see what missionaries in Edmonton do. And we had great people with us, I loved it and them. This weekend was also the end of the Month, so lots of people needed help moving in and out of apartments. It was lots of moving. But it was fun, and I always love spending time in service clothes.

Now, a review of the last 6 months. Its been good. Its gone too quick, its gone too slow. It was the best of experiences, it was the worst of experiences. It was fun, it was sad. Ok. 10th grade English class time is over. In all honesty, its been a bit of a wild ride. Times were good, times were bad. There were times I absolutely loved everyone, and days I just wanted to be left alone. But I do know that these last 6 months have been the best of my life. I have absolutely loved (at least in hindsight) the time I've spent on my mission. I will not pretend that it is not a difficult thing. But it is something that has helped me personally in a way I never knew I needed. And it was a joy for me to see how much the message of the Gospel can help others. Its something I felt I've taken for granted, and I am learning how to appreciate it, and the joy it brings. I want all of you to know that I truly do have a testimony of the Gospel, of a loving Father in Heaven. He is aware of us, loves us, and wants what is truly the best for us. I know Christ is our friend. He knows everyone here on Earth personally and in a way that no other person can. I know that Joseph Smith is the Prophet of the Restoration and was called to bring back Christ's church. I know the he brought back the Book of Mormon, and that it is a true book. The one book that can help us most in our life. I have seen the blessings of this church in my life, and I invite all others to find those blessings in theirs. They are yours for the taking if you will reach out and grab them.