Hey Family,
I hope you had a happy father's day Dad! In hispanic culture, parents play a less emotional role and more of a means to an end. Thus, yesterday really took on no special meaning to anyone that we visited. It was pretty sad, because dads and moms both are so crucially important to their children. I missed you dad, but I am sure you all had a wonderful time. I am grateful for the example of humility and diligence that you set before me. Having an exemplary father most assuredly makes it easier to succeed in life. Slowly I am beginning to grasp the eternal significance of families in this life and the next. Sadly, a lot of people do not believe in eternal life. Many Christians say that we will sing and praise to God for eternity and nothing more. I am grateful that the plan of salvation gives me a better sense of purpose in this life.
Elder Howard and I were blessed to see many miracles in all shapes, sizes, and forms. We had people chase us down and ask for missionaries to come over. We met people who had previously had baptismal dates who had moved and lost contact. We also found a family with amazing parents who love and care for their children. They are the Beltran family from Acapulco. Rafael, the father is blind. He has a 4 year old daughter and a 12 year old son. The wife has not taken much interest in the gospel as she is more of the father figure. The great part was that we taught them, and then yesterday they made it to church. They loved it and told us they will keep on coming. We had a recent convert give them a ride, so it was awesome! The men of the Elders' Quorum slowly, but surely, warmed up to rafael and some even found out they came from the same neighborhood. It was a really sweet experience.
Ivan Martinez has a baptism date! We set it for a ways out to give the family a chance to catch up. Our Branch President really wants the Martinez family to be baptized and confirmed. We are slowly seeing his enthusiasm reach the members. It has been hard to get member participation, but we are getting it. Our branch is growing a lot, really fast. I am thrilled to be a part of that. Ivan was excited when we asked him to be baptized. It was kind of rough extending the committment (It has been a while since I did it...) but the Spirit helped me out and touched the heart of Ivan. He will be baptized on July 23rd, 2011. Hopefully with three other family members. I pray a lot for them.
Another man, Rufino Sanchez, was found when walking in the 110 degree heat on Wednesday. He was being taught in Plano, Texas by sister missionaries. He went to church often and went to multiple baptisms. This was all about 5 years ago. His job moved to Phoenix and he had to take off in the middle of the night. He lost contact with the Church and told us that he has been looking for us ever since. He has talked to english missionaries, but they cannot understand him because he speaks not one bit of English. Well, now he has been found and we are so thrilled with the opportunity to teach him.
We had our downs of course. I am a little sick still from Food Poisoning once again. I had a 101 fever. It is going down. I know it was not too smart to go out and work, but our area needs it. As I worked hard and trusted in the Lord, we were able to see these miracles. My faith increased in a lot of ways in this last week. My testimony is strogner. It was a great week.
I hope you (Mom and Dad) enjoy your anniversary trip to seattle. I miss bodies of water, a lot. Take lots of pictures and just have a good time! Be safe, say your prayers...you know what to do.
Will and Maddy, enjoy summer while you can. Youth goes away fast. As I was reading General Conference talks again, I realized I will not be a kid anymore once I get home. Life will be way different. Be kind, and try to develop Christlike attributes in your youth. I can tell from my experience here in the mission that it is much harder to do here than at home. Here, there is too much to worry about! One thing I am learning by the Spirit, is patience, and stress-control. I rarely find myself "stressed" anymore. I know the Lord has me in His hands. If I do my best, he will push me in the right direction.
My mission is going too fast. I am terrfied to think that I am almost half way over. If it were not for the complete exhaustion that comes at the end of 2 years, I would love to do this for longer. I have never seen the Gospel and the Church in the way I do now. I will be honest. I was not 100% excited to be going on a mission. I liked working. I loved learning at BYU. I liked sleeping in. The Gospel had provided me with those things, so in some way I felt like I was obligated. As soon as being in the MTC for a month, my perspective changed. Time was crawling by. Now, it is going at the speed of sound. I have repented and have a fresh view on nearly every aspect of life and the Gospel. I was ill-prepared to come out here. The Lord has blessed me and taught me by the Spirit. I love my mission so much. The thought that it is hald way over nearly drives me to tears. I just love it here, no matter how good or bad every day is. I really just want my good friends to have the same opportunities. Grateful to you mom and dad for letting me make my own mistakes, and showing me love the whole time through. I think your love and sincerity as my parents is what drives me to become better every day. I do all I can so that we can be together forever. I am trying to help the people of Phoenix realize that. A lot of them are, and nothing has ever made me smile more! I wasn't a very smiley person, but now I crack one pretty often. The Gospel brings us joy.
As for my birthday, it is not going to happen. I can not turn 20. I hope to stay here in Phoenix for my birthday. We find out what is happening next Saturday. I am pretty sure Elder Howard and I will continue to see growth in these people. The area is taking off, and I do not want to leave. I would not mind spending another 2-3 transfers here. I love the people, I love the branch, and I love my companion. Elder Howard is a good one! mailing my package to the mission office probably would be best.
I love you all so much! Have an incredible week!
Elder Pearson
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