This and That

Sister McGuire does such a great job on keeping everyone informed about what we are doing.  I'll just add a few insights from my side.  She mentioned how "old" it seems we are - however, don't the pictures show just how young we are getting by staying here!  Working with the young single adults keeps us at least acting young.  But then I realize my body isn't what it used to be and I have to wind back my expectations of what I can do. 
There are some great young men and women in this area who are strong and trying to do what is right.  Even more so, we are inspired by the young missionaries who take their callings seriously.  As I was looking out into the Institute parking lot this morning, I saw two of our Zone Leaders, Elders McCloy and Baloaloa talking with a young man sitting on a bench along the road.  They spent at least a half hour talking with him and he agreed to hear more of their message.  Upon leaving the Institute, I saw them out in the parking lot talking to another young man as he went to his car.  They are following the counsel of President Schmitt to open their mouths.  I wish I would have taken a picture of their faithfulness to illustrate to other missionaries that their duty is to preach and teach as directed by their mission president. 
We love our mission!  We get tired; maybe a little cranky now and again, but we love the calling that we have received to strengthen and to teach.  The Lord is teaching us a lot about how we can take direction and help others as we serve.  There is no small responsibility in our service to the Lord.  We learn and we grow.  And hopefully our service is acceptable to the Lord.  If there is one thing I have learned about service as a Senior Missionary it is that all of the assignments have one goal: to allow the missionaries the time to preach and teach more effectively.  We all participate in apartment inspections, car inspections and providing food to various missionary conferences.  What a blessing it is to support these fine young men and women.  Some of our senior missionaries are assigned to help struggling wards to become better.  What better effort can they have to share their years of experience in church service and yet realize that the local leaders have the keys and authority.  Those of you who are on the cusp of service, know how important it is to the strengthening of the church that you choose to serve.