Saturday, September 24, 2011

By Small and Simple Things

We are teaching an amazing family. They enjoy gathering around the kitchen table and reading from the Book of Mormon with us. They have a great desire to learn and know more about Jesus Christ. I love teaching them. I can see how the gospel is blessing them in small ways. Unfortunately, the father doesn't always join us for our lessons. But the mother and children are diligent in inviting him every time.

Yesterday was the birthday of one of their daughters. To let her know we love her and were thinking of her we wrote out "Happy Birthday" on sticky notes. We drew hearts and put some little quotes and scriptures on other notes. Along with our fun notes we gave her a bookmark for her scriptures, a picture of Christ with a young girl, and a picture of us at the Oakland Temple. We went to their house last night with the intention of sticking our notes all over their front door, but they were home. We were in a bit of a quandary, so instead we quickly stuck them to the back of their car. We hoped they would see them before they got in the car to drive away. We were so excited and had a hard time not giggling and making too much noise! Once all was done we hurried back to our car and drove away. We were giddy like little girls thinking about how they would discover it and what their reaction would be. We found out soon enough for they called us not too long after we drove away. The birthday girl was very excited and grateful. The mother explained to us that she had gone out to the car to retrieve something and found our surprise. She ran back into the house and called her daughter's name and said, "Come outside there's something you have to see! Quick!" Needless to say the young girl was a little frightened. After much coaxing she finally went outside to see and was relieved to find it wasn't something scary!

Now I tell you all this not to boast but to show you a miracle. After seeing the picture of us at the temple the father questioned what it was. The mother, who's father is an active member of the church, knew enough to explain a little about it. She explained that the church isn't just a place to go and read the scriptures and pray. Although it is in part. She explained that the church is one big family. We help one another and lift up each other. We express our love by serving each other. She told us all this over the phone and explained that she could see him warm a little to us and in turn the church. Perhaps next time we are over to their house he will be more willing to listen and join us.

Who knew that sticky notes would soften a man's heart!

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

The Beginning - El Principio

Well, here's the beginning of many joyful experiences and witnessing miracles. Thus is the life of a missionary!

Pues, esta es el principio de muchas experiencias de gozo y milagros. ¡Es la vida de una misionera!