SUMMARY:
So unfortunately our investigator Heather (pictured below with me and Sister Chudleigh) has been taken off date because of some lasting psychological issues (that she needs to get cleared with the church/stake...? Still working through how that works), and because she is very reluctant to give up smoking. We're still working with her though. She enjoys our visits, is consistently reading her scriptures, and has started bringing her family to church, so that's all pretty awesome.
We also found a really cool guy named Jens this last week who we're going to start teaching. He grew up in the church, but in the last 4-5 years his life has taken a turn for the worse (drugs; I told you, drugs are everywhere) and he's just now started to get things cleaned up. As such, we're going to help him start re-investigating his faith and connecting him with the scriptures. I'm really excited.
Pictures!
*my sweet companion Sister Chudleigh who left me to go home today. :(
Thought:
This thought is from 2 Nephi 5:27, and it says (so simply)
"And it came to pass that we lived after the manner of happiness."
Wow. How wonderful is that? If you read earlier in the chapter, it talks about how they were industrious, working with their hands, taking care of their needs, being faithful to God...and the list goes on. I know that in these times like in the times of the Book of Mormon, the church directs us to 'live after the manner of happiness.' Just look at the 13th article of faith: "And if there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things." The entire intent of the Gospel is to direct us to those things which are lovely and virtuous, which will uplift us and direct us towards that manner of happiness we all desire. And yeah, that means turning down some things that may be fun but ultimately restrict us (drugs, messing around, whatever), but I know that it's worth it.
I love you all! Stay strong, and let me know what's going down in your lives!
Love,
Sister Hale
