Monday, October 29, 2012

October 29, 2012

Dear Mom and Dad,
I'll answer your question yi xia, we didn't have a baptism this week.  I have a pretty interesting feeling, I haven't baptized since I've gone Zone Leader, and we don't have any investigators who are prepared to be baptized in the next 3 weeks.  Its weird to think that I may not have another baptism for the rest of my mission, but I'm also optimistic.  I am more focused on helping our investigators make real progress.  If I see the fruits of my labors, or if I don't, I don't think its important.  My MTC teacher said that we see less than 1% of the fruits of our labors as missionaries.  The rest requires hope in the work we are doing.  I hope to leave a good impression on Taiwan before I leave.
Its interesting, I don't feel especially trunky, which is making time go by really fast.  Trunky missionaries seem miserable, I'd hate to go out like that.  A lot of missionaries will set crazy goals their last week or month in the field.  Sometimes it really makes a difference, but sometimes it seems like the missionary is gratifying their own desire, and is not focused what is best.  My main goal is handing the reins over to Elder Chen in a way that will allow our area and zone to continue to improve.  Keep helping people progress, keep finding, keep working with the ward.
I can't believe the elections are almost over.  I missed all of it!  I don't feel like I missed out on anything, but I'll definitely need to do some homework when I get home.  Hey, if you come accross any campaign memorabilia, would you mind grabbing some for me?  You know, like buttons, pictures, etc.  If you don't, that's cool too.
I sent Nick's letter to his house, so he should be getting it pretty soon.  I sent a bunch of letters a few weeks ago, even though I doubt I'll be getting any letters back before I go home.  It'll be exciting to get home and see my family and friends again.  I'm excited to meet Braidyn, he seems really wonderful.  I'm glad to hear Kyle got a job, I hope he can begin turning things around in his life.  I can't believe Richie is actually engaged!  Actually, I can.  I love the story about the shopping cart, but I think painting a pentagram in front of their house was even better.  Those will be fun stories to tell the kids. 
So how fast do you think I can get engaged?  I definitely don't want to wing it, but I do hope to get married quickly.  Haha!
I think some of the members are planning some sort of dinner or something before I go, but I'm not sure.  I heard some sneaky talk yesterday from a member of the bishopric.  Another member family is going to take us sight seeing on P-day.  We're encouraged to keep our departure on the low key, as not to be a burden on the members.  Everyone's confused about my release date because I changed plans.  Bwahaha.  I'm a little confused too, some of my departure workshops and interviews have to be moved around, but it will all work out.
Well, thats about it.  Have a good week.
Love,
Elder Travis Leatham

No comments: