Let the Holy Spirit Guide

Wow, Singapore is starting to feel really close, especially with the accumulation of some Mandarin gear: namely an all-Chinese name tag (we aren't allowed to wear them around the MTC is what I hear though) and some Chinese Pamphlets (check out the pictures to see the fun differences between the English and Chinese pamphlet's pics). As I write this email, I realize that I have only one more email that I will write before I head out to the field.

The MTC has been great, with many learning experiences not in the least bit limited to Chinese. I have to admit, when I came here I thought that my spiritual level was going to be good enough, but what I have learned is it wasn't, nor is it yet still :). When we have the spirit with us, we will be guided to do whatever we need to do, missionary or member. This blessing sounds really desirable, and yet we do not always see it as an achievable goal. God wants to help us though, and if we seek His help, we will receive this guidance, being able to retain the influence promised to us in our baptismal covenant.

As far as news this week, I am sure all of you are wondering how many laps I ran around the MTC track today. Wednesdays are always the best days to run because exercise time is optional on P-days. I got 73 laps today...I am degrading...MTC food and no real chance to do anything but distance is taking its toll. Despite an all-you-can-eat cafeteria, I weighed myself this morning and I am lighter than I was when I came in (goodbye running muscle :).

Chinese is progressing great and so are teaching skills. We were able to teach another Skype lesson to a member from Taiwan on Monday (her Tuesday morning). I also want to share an experience that we had while my companion and I were teaching one of our teachers who was role-playing a member who had a nonmember wife. One big thing that the MTC has taught me is that we are here to teach people according to their needs. When this "member" expressed concerns over not being sure how he should approach sharing the gospel to his wife after she previously showed no interest, we were able to share a scripture in 3 Nephi 18: 23-24 that talks about what Christ said concerning those who are not of our faith. In this scripture, Christ expounds doctrine that he exemplified during his earthly ministry- "pray for them, and (you) shall not cast them out" as well as "hold up your light that it may shine unto the world." The scriptures truly have answers to many of our questions, and are one of our greatest resources.

I also want to add my testimony that I know that this doctrine is true. We are to be patient, loving, and an example. If we do these things, God will provide us with opportunities to bless other's lives so long as we are willing to move forward in confidence.