Rain

is falling all around. And it's really cold. Just preparing me for Utah. ;)

This week was, well, wet... and rewarding. We worked hard, looking for new investigators, and found a couple of gems. Sister Pacita I think is my favorite. I already love her so much. She is the mother of 7. But, mom, imagine 2 sets of twins; 17 years old (girls) and 7 months (boys), also a 20 year old, 19 year old, and a 3 year old... oh, and no husband. She is incredible. Her husband was killed last year before election because he was a body guard for someone running for... something. Her oldest, a boy, drives their tricycle to support them. (not the highest paying job... by a long shot). Her twins are, quite honestly, a little self centered, but with a little love and some gospel they can change :). Her 3 year old is the most adorable girl named Princess I've ever met. Anyway, sister is like WonderMom... she stands there most of the time for the lessons because she's holding 2 7-month olds (who don't have diapers on.. haha) and listens intently while trying not to let them cry so she can listen. She is receptive, and I want her to accept it so bad. The first time we met I asked where she thought her husband was. She said "siguro..." which means "I think..." I told her that she can know for sure. I told her she can be "sigurado gid" which means you know for sure, where he is, and that she can also be sure she can be with him again. I know she's curious, because I don't think anyone has told that to her before. She has plans to come to church, and I just pray she will. She didn't come yesterday, but I'm not sure why... we haven't been able to follow up. I just get overwhelmed with the love I feel for her. That's something that I've felt a lot of lately... overwhelming feelings of the love of God for these people and the need to let them know. As a result, I feel the love for them... even strangers.

I was working with Sister Salway this week one day and we went to one of their investigators. As we walked in the house of a man who is basically a single dad of a 11 year old and a 10 year old, I felt a sadness just emanating from this man. As we sat down to talk to him, I didn't even have to beg, he laid his concern out for us. And all I wanted him to understand was how incredibly loved he was. So I followed the spirit, shared a scripture, and bore my testimony. The spirit in the room was so strong, and I found myself loving this family and wanting their happiness.

That's what I've learned. I've learned that if you don't love them, nothing else matters. And the way to love them is to serve them with your whole heart.

I love my mission. I'm off to what I'm sure is going to be a combination of the hardest, busiest and most rewarding week of the last 18 months. I love you all, I love being a missionary, and I love my Heavenly Father.

Sister Adams