Nevertheless while confined I really studied my patriarchal blessing. Something new I realized is that it says much, if not all, of the happiness in my life will be a result of applying the principles of the gospel. I thought it was interesting the first time I read it, but then realized that it says it over four or five times. So this week I thought a lot about that and studied the first principles of the Gospel.
Things are going well in the zone. This past weekend there were SIX baptisms. Our companionship did not have one, but it was awesome to see the others taking place. We have one scheduled for this weekend and are hoping that everything goes well and that it actually happens this time.
My patriarchal blessing also talks about the burden and blessing of needing to be an example, and that is what I am learning as a zone leader. There are a lot of rules as a missionary and its hard to keep them all, impossible to be honest, but I'm just trying to be an example more than anything. Something I have learned is that if a leader does something that shouldn't be done, the rest of the zone (for the most part) will follow. So I am trying to do my best to be obedient, and know WHY I do it. If there's no motive it makes no sense. Christ is the overall motive.
Yesterday in church a brother who is a recent convert shared a thought he had while we talked about the plan of salvation. He said in effect that he doesn't believe this life is our life. He thinks we are here trying to gain the life we had before back. We are working so that we can live with God again. I think that that's true. Obviously we need to focus on what we do here and strive for excellence, but in reality its just a phase of our existence. I imagine that when we finish it will be like waking up from a dream.
President Casariego has brought a new "groove" to the mission. He is pumped to be here and his energy and faith are contagious. We can drink Coca Cola now! I think I've only had it two or three times since then, but a lot of missionaries were excited for that change.
I am happy. I love doing this and even though things are a little hard right now in terms of investigators and new people to teach I know I am successful missionary. I imagine I will be in Zapala until November or December and before I leave Zapala is going to explode with missionary success.
I love everyone!
Elder Kauffman aka Jack