Week 76 (Don't Give Up!... W.A.)

Hello, and happy week to all! As expected, the temperatures are slowly rising and reminding us that we are in Arizona. I am fully enjoying my chance to be back in the valley/city/Spanish work. The people and food have a great place in my heart. To share a funny story... Yesterday, we were teaching on some grass of one of the local community college campuses. We had brought a guy with us who would be leaving on his mission in a little less than a month. Near the end of the lesson a gentleman pulled up his bike and was curiously and anxiously eying us from a distance. (About 25 feet away, if that.) After the lesson was finished we approached him and introduced ourselves. He began to ask us of our motivation behind the service that we do followed by a series of other questions. It quickly became apparent that he had no intention of hearing the answers to his questions but only to quickly interject and instill us with his doctrine. We then spent the rest of 20 min or so, trying to direct him to the Church website or to the English missionaries who could address his questions at a more appropriate time. While walking back to the car we explained to Abel (pronounced Ahh-Bell) that he will find many situations like that and it will be his job to address the concerns of all when sincerely asked, and to politely interact with those who have no desire to hear but to simply tell us that we are wrong. We did, however, mention the sincerity and kindness of this young man in trying to help us see what he felt to be truth, which is generally rare. And how normally they are more loud, less polite and use more heated tones and words in addressing us. No sooner had we mentioned that, than a man who was crossing the street in front of us greeted us with a belittling statement concerning Joseph Smith, followed by a series of ill-mannered words and sentiments. After asking him for a referral and if he needed some service, we then told Abel with a laugh, "That is what we were talking about." Haha. It was pretty ironic. Any day can be cheery and bright, even when the day's events are delivered in a contrary manner. With an optimistic attitude and a disposition to find good in all, every day can be a joy. I hope that each of you can find peace in your trials and comfort during hardships. I know that it can come as we always remember our Lord and Savior who gave all so that we could have all. Take care!

-Elder LaPorte =)