Well this has sure been a week full of exciting events. I dont think I have ever been so busy in the mission before. Tuesday we had our interviews with President Arrington and beforehand I decided I would prepare myself a little bit more with some questions in mind. During my interview I asked him how can I become an even more consecrated missionary? He told me, If you really want to know what you can do to become a better missionary you must ask the Lord in humble prayer, wanting to receive an answer, and having a heart willing to change. Then you have to be prepared because the Lord will tell you very clearly what you need to improve. It is amazing that as we humble ourselves we are able to see many of the tiny details in our lives that need improvement and throught the enabling power of Christ we are able to make those weaknesses strengths.
On Wednesday, I was able to attend a special conference for all of the missionaries who will be going home this next cambio. President Arrington talked a lot about how we are not only called to begin the mission but to finish strong. I was able to feel really motivated about helping my companion finish her mission focused and without any regrets. I have noticed such a difference in our conversations and even in my thoughts. As I strive to give all my attention to the Lord and his work I have found that I am happier because I know that I am using each moment he has given me to serve as a full time representative in a way that is pleasing to him.
On Thursday I experienced my first mini-cambio as a Hermana Leader. I was able to be with my MTC companion Hermana Prettyman!! It was such a miracle to be with her for a day beacuse it was so clear to see how much we have both grown as missionaies and in our spanish. I remember setting goals with her in the MTC to try and speak only Spanish for a whole week...it was extremely hard and we didnt have a lot of conversation that week... haha but during our mini cambio we could talk the whole time in Spanish without a problem. It was a reminder of the reality of the Gift of Tounges.
On Friday our investigator Lieslie finally got married!!! We are just waiting now for her husband to receive his preisthood rights back and he will be able to baptize her. This was the first wedding I have experienced in the mission. It was so beautiful! I made tofee and everyone LOVED it. :)
Saturday we had such great plans, but an elderly lady in our ward informed us at the last minute that she was moving, so we went over to help her pack up her things. In the afternoon she called us again and asked if we could help carry things into the moving truck. There werent very many members who could help us, so it turned out being the Bishop, his wife, the relief society president, and two other members who carried everything from her house to the van then we all hopped into the car to take it to her new apartment which to our suprise was on the 4th floor! After hours of carring furniture and house supplies you can imagine how exhausted we all felt, but I learned a very important lesson that it is very important to be willing to help serve those around you even if it means sacrificing some of you previous plans.
The work continues to progess here in Concepcion and I feel very blessed to be a part of the many miracles occuring every day.
I want to thank you all for your love, support, and prayers. Have a wonderful week!