Lauren and her companion have been working on unity. Since they are both so independent, it's been a bit of a challenge to mesh their teaching styles. But, they are learning to build on each others strengths and are both working on the principles of humility and charity.
It's been a tough week. Lauren loves the work and is having a lot of fun, but it's definitely work! It has been snowing a lot in Provo and Lauren LOVES it. On a recent trip to clean the Temple, she describes the walk to the Temple as heavenly!... She writes: "Snow brings me so much JOY!
Last Sunday, Lauren gave a talk in Spanish at their Sacrament Meeting. Every missionary in the district is responsibile for preparing a 3 minute talk in Spanish on an assigned topic. The topic for the last week was La Fe en JesuCristo y su expiacion (Faith in Jesus Christ and his atonement). Then during the meeting, the person conducting the service announces which missionaries are speaking. Quoting her letter: My talk 'was about having faith in things that we can't see like Abinadi. We can't always see the difference we are making, but as we work hard and continue to further the Lord's work in whatever capacity we are asked, we can know that somehow we are making a difference'.
Her district also had a district meeting last Sunday. They started by talking about the Book of Mormon, but their discussion developed into more of a bonding meeting expressing their appreciation for each other. The Spirit was very strong and they all felt very close. By the time they said the closing prayer, everyone was crying. Lauren thinks she's rubbing off on them because she cries just about every day. (No surprises there).
Her days are blurring together and are so busy that she is certain there are things she's forgetting to tell us. She also says: "For all of you who are sending letters and are frustrated that I'm not answering your specific questions I'm so sorry! I get like 3 or 4 letters a day and it's hard to keep track of who is asking what and when. And I only have 30 minutes to read and send emails... and only a few hours to write all of the letter I want to write. Just know I love you! And, if you need me to respond to something specific, let me know that it's important".
