November 19 email

Hey mommy

Snow, hmm, i wonder what that is? Although it has been chilly here for the last few days, i cant see snow in the forecast! lol

Wow what a week!! in fact, it was an incredible (lol) week!

But where to begin!? Lets see, last tuesday, we visited with simplicio and silvia, and after having a wonderful new member lesson, silvia asked us to give her a blessing (she wasnt feeling well). And my companion absolutely put me on the spot when he looked at me and said that i would give the blessing. I was a little freaked out, i had never even given a blessing before in english, let alone spanish! But as he anointed silvia, i felt an amazing spirit come over me, and i felt that reassuring feeling that i could do it. So then a sealed the anointed, and began to give her a blessing (all in spanish!). It was not anything amazing, i didnt suddenly become fluent in the language, but i know i used all the spanish that i knew and i know that i wasnt the one giving the blessing. While i gave the blessing, the words just came to me, the blessing went in a direction i didnt think i would go, and i love that! It was such a testimony builder for me! And forever i can say that the first priesthood blessing i ever gave was in spanish!

The rest of the week was really good. We are both searching for more investigators, but it is really hard because hispanic people are CONSTANTLY working. But i am sure we will be guided. Our other main investigator, Jorge, is moving to Louisanna in two weeks. Our biggest goal is to build his testimony, and then we will try and send those missionaries to him!

Thanksgiving plans... hmm. Missionaries usually get mulitple dinners, lunches, etc. so that wont be a problem. I know right now we already have two appointments, and many more offers. Also, the ward has a HUGE Turkey bowl. This town is in love with football, and they have been talking smack to each other for weeks, so it should be interesting this thursday!

This morning i was thinking about how blessed i am in my life. I am so lucky, so blessed, God has given me so much, so many opportunities and so many experiences. I am truly learning that every moment is a learning opportunity.

The other night, i caught myself cruising along through my nightly pray, defiantely not really thinking of what i was saying, and then i said something i havent said before, i said "Estoy agradecido por mi llamamiento" or i am thankful for my calling... and the second i said that, it really hit me how thankful i was for the calling. I immediately stopped saying my redundant prayer, and i started trying to thank Heavenly Father for the little things that i never thank Him for. I challenge you to try and do that this week. My appreciation has increased the more i have done that.

Well, i look forward to the holiday, even if it is the first from home. It is a growing experience, and i wouldnt trade anything for this experience.

I love you mommy

have a wonderful week, be thankful, pray, read the scriptures and know that i love you and am so thankful for you.

I KNOW this gospel is true. Our savior lives, i know He does, i know that His sacrafice changes lives, i have seen that change, and i live for the chance to see that change in others lives. We are lead by a prophet today. I cant wait to hear him for the christmas conference (yes i will get to see it).

I love you mommy, have a wonderful week

Elder Kenck