Blessings in the Mission Field

Whew, whish, and wee!! Sounds like something from Dr. Seus, yet that's how we feel about the month of June! While the summer months seem less busy as far as number of classes are concerned and lunches to prepare, we have been very active in assisting the missionary effort. A week's trip to California and the purchase of a new computer monopolized much of June. So here we are just past the middle of July...almost one month before another new school year begins! Dr. Seus had the answer: "Oh, the places you go and the people you meet!"
We have a new mission president. What an enlightened leader! We spent the day with him in Zone Conference today, and we feel humbled to know how the Lord has once again provided and blessed us with a stalwart of faith and leadership.
These mighty young elders never cease to amaze us. Surely these are the last days because of the quality of men (already at 19!) that are serving in His vineyard. They have understanding, compassion, and love for truth like we have never witnessed before. We feel very blessed and motivated to be surrounded by this strength!
It has occurred to us just recently that unlike our home ward, the mission field has given us a new perspective and appreciation of the recently converted. Their sacrifice for accepting the truth is monumental in some cases! Not only do they have a new vocabulary to assimilate, a new code of health, a new wardrobe to acquire (in some cases), a new activity on Sundays (3 hours NOT at the lake), new friends and the loss of old friends, and (in some cases), the rejection of family. What courage, what faith...what an example to us!
Recently, we have been involved in teaching investigators from other countries, like Haiti, the Congo, China, and Peru. Besides learning something about sign language (our own invention, of course), we have gained a greater appreciation of our country...which is quite appropriate to do in July considering our nation's birthday and Pioneer Day! When we hear about their governments, living conditions, and lack of opportunities, we feel a rush of gratitude for our American way of life. Some may say that we haven't listened to the news lately, and they would be right. Yet, who would want to leave...permanently!
We love our country! We love our mission! We love the Lord! and We love YOU!
Sharon and Peter