It rained like mad!!!
This week we had President's Interviews, which were super great. It was
cool to get to listen to the assistants (Elder Jenkins and Elder Reese) present
the training that went on during the interviews twice: it was amazing how the
subtle differences between each district's presentation was so in tune with what
the missionaries needed. President's remarks to the group in particular was
incredibly powerful. The interviews themselves took a super long time, and we
had to wait till the next day to have our own interviews, but that was fine; the
timing when I was able to have my interview was perfect. We talked a lot about
how I've grown as a missionary, and my potential in life. I REALLY want to live
up to what President Castro saw in me!!! I've really resolved to do better and
be that kind of man someday. I was also amazed by all of the sacrifices, and
the heart and soul President puts into taking care of us.
We also drove down to Oxnard again with Elder Eggleston and Elder Payne,
our two district leaders, for a completely new meeting: Mission Leader
Conference! All the Zone and District leaders got together for a
Panel-discussion with the Stake President about how we can do better work with
the members. It was super insightful; and the number one thing the discussion
focused on was the power of prayer. The stake presidents shared some missionary
experiences they've had recently, and all of them started out with them praying
for the opportunity to share the gospel with someone, and then acting on that.
I was also impressed by the fact that every one of these incredibly busy men
had an experience in less than 2 days. Many of them own their own
businesses or do other highly taxing jobs, oftentimes in settings where they
can't just "proselyte" to their co-workers; and not to mention all the time and
attention their calling requires!!! It was a huge testimony to me that ANYONE
can share the gospel, we just have to have the charity to do it.
Nancy and Alejandro are doing great; we taught them the Plan of Salvation,
and they really loved and believe it. They've been reading the Book of Mormon,
and just are happier and happier to see us each time we come! I super love
teaching them, and really hope we can help them accept this.
On a more secular plane; I scheduled an appointment for NEXT Monday at a
CostCo Optician; one of the members in the ward suggested it and offered to take
us (since it's like Sam's Club, you have to be a member) Sorry for putting that
off!
I'm also going to be sending my Memory card back soon; It's getting pretty
full and has some GREAT memories on it.
I love you all, and hope mortality is treating you well! Keep praying for
missionary opportunities and taking them, and keep doing all the little things.
Keep those expectations high!
Love,
Elder Matthew David Clough
