Mom,
Give my congrats to Ian on Tennis. Sounds like fun as well. I really want to watch the Q&A with Elder and Sister Bednar, we'll see if I can get the time. That's awesome that my Grandparents will be able to stay for my arrival :) Ha, classic Utah homecoming. My companion asked me the other day: "So, in Utah, if you go to the airport, are there just a bunch of groups of people with signs standing around? How often do the massive groups of missionaries arrive?" I told him that if you want to blend in at the airport, just put on a white shirt and badge.
It is quite a roller coaster. But, I've come to the conclusion that I'm ready to go, which is good. That's a bit of peace that I had really been praying to receive. I'm excited :)
In regards to the work, this week has been wonderful. We're still going strong with the YSA aged guy we're working with. He's so sharp, it's easy to teach him. Plus, he's determined. We got a message from him yesterday about how he feels that he needs to bump up his baptismal date. I'm always a bit weary about the whole relationship-conversion thing, though, so I've been praying a lot to make sure we teach to him specifically, and work on the conversion of his soul, not the soul of his relationship with the member of our ward.
The Zone is really starting to catch a vision of what we can be as missionaries. This last week was such an improvement for the newer missionaries. Our ward mission leader is keeping us on our toes, and he's getting as close to his mission as ever. We were talking the other day about how we'll both have our last darts and ping pong night together. Brings a tear to my eye. I'm gonna miss that kid so much. What a champion.
Having iPads in the mission for a few weeks has been really interesting. I'm not going to lie, I've really caught onto the idea. The calendar and reminder features are invaluable to missionary work, as is the Gospel Library. Ah, I can't praise the Gospel Library enough, the developers of that program were inspired, and it makes study so much more effective. I'm converted to using digital devices in the work of the Lord, and I'm super excited to be a force for good with them as I arrive home.
The first of three Zone Conferences happened this week. It was great to get over into the West country again. The conference focused on creativity and experimentation with tools we've been given, such as the iPads and Church Initiatives. It was wonderful, actually. We're learning so much that we'll be able to apply not just as missionaries, but for the rest of our lives.
During study this week, I found a verse that I really enjoyed in 2 Nephi 2. In the second verse, Lehi talks about the Lord consecrating afflictions for our gain. I love that concept, because truly we can either have pointless afflictions, or we can have purpose associated with our trials. Those are often the two choices, as many trials in this life are unavoidable. It all depends on our attitude and relationship with God, as He is the one that consecrates those afflictions.
Alright, I'd better be going. I love you, I'll try my hardest to everything done and sorted with those documents.
Elder Foster