Letter #8

Dear Family,

I'm almost out of here! This week hads its ups and downs, some in the same day, but the ups always seem to out number the downs. Such as Sunday. Our companionship goal was to not take a nap, to use the time doing something slightly more edifying. So after lunch we returned to our class and listened to several general conference talks and other devotionals (one I'll mention later). We watched the weekly church movie, which was "Legacy," and afterwards had a final choir rehearsal for our piece, " I need Thee Every Hour." Our interpreter didn't show up for the devotional so instead we had an impromptu, tri-lingual testimony meeting. It was fantastic. Afterwards, both Sister and President Degn bore their testimonies and President Degn pronounced a priesthood blessing upon the congregation. He blessed us that the righteous desires of our heart be filled, allowing us to become the missionaries we desire to become. It was very spiritual and uplifting. Well, to top it all off perfectly we sang our piece for postlude perfectly, which I may add is significant as I sang tenor and the song never dropped lower than a "d." To our surprise as we quietly were returning to our seats, Pres. Degn, on the verge of tears asked us to perform it a second time. At the conclusion of the second time, many in the audience and, even some singing, were in tears.

Yesterday, my good friend from Bolivia left and also many other Brazilian friends, including our roomomates. As Pres. Wood related in Boston, I will leave many parts of my heart here, and already have with several of the Brazilian, Hispanic, and American elders. It is never hard to see that we are all brothers and sisters.

My thoughts this week: Perhaps I have already talked about the importance of the spirit in our lives amid the newfound desire and understanding I have on this subject but it can never be overemphasized. This Sunday, I heard a great talk from Elder Bednar given at the Provo MTC sometime ago. In it he asked us to stop worrying about whether or not we always recognize the spirit guiding us. Instead, worry about being obedient and worthy and know the spirit will be with you. (Also, he referred to a great story in a talk entitled "The 20 Mark Note" by Elder Packer.) Many times he says you may not recognize at the moment that something is a spiritual impression, but it is. Almost all the time, while living righteously, we will be led by the Holy Ghost and not know we're being led. This was quite revelatory to me and I hope you see the great beauty and importance of this doctrine. It is our job to faithfullly obey God, to do what he asks to do, always. He will take care of the rest.

This week, we had a few fun celebrations. Tuesday was Chile's 102nd anniversary of their independance day so the cafeteria was decorated in red, white and blue (Chilean not American). We heard the national anthem and had popcorn at lunch. Being the creative missionaries that we are, Elder Hale and I proceeded to improve upon this celebration by adding to the popcorn melted butter, salt and dulce de leite (carmel) and tosting it in the microwave. Life-changing. We've now created several CTM culinary legends. Also highlight of the week, I GOT TWO OF YOUR LETTERS!!!!!!!!! Oh, the joy! My soul at last at peace: ) I quite enjoyed them as I do all the letters my wonderful family and friends send me.
But wait!! Lest I forget. Monday night Sister Degn let me watch Grampy's prayer. Pres Degn and Sister Degn watched it as well. I can't explain how special that was to me. It surely was a tender mercy of the Lord and I felt very close to my family and the Lord, which I expect is what Heaven will be like. I'm so very grateful for that Great Plan of Happiness of our God, that provides the way that I may spend eternity with all of you. I love you more than carmel popcorn!

LOVE,

Tanner

p.s. Sis. Steadmena sent a recording of our song. Another missionary recorded it and is sending it to you so expect.

p.p.s.- Only two more weeks!!! Are you as excited as I am???

p.p.p.s. Today in the temple the power failed and we finished the session in the dark! It was quite the experience but the work goes on, light or no light : )