More thoughts...

We went to the temple today and when we got back they gave us a little more time on the computer and I wanted to share some more thoughts Ive had...

 

So, i was saying that it has been fairly tough adjusting here... and it really has been. the culture, the new people and the new area. all of it is quite an adjustment for me. it really is a whole new world here. but today in the temple i was blessed with guidance about how to overcome my difficulties. i hadnt been able to put a finger on what has really been bothering me. it wasnt the food or the heat or the lack of sleep or the companion issues. it wasnt even the language or the culture that was a big deal. in the temple, i realized that it came down to the fact that i am too busy seeing with my eyes, listening with my ears, observing with my mind. im too busy comparing everything. im too busy observing and maybe even judging. 

I learned that i need to quit this if i am going to enjoy my life here in the mission field. i am not conscientiously judging these people, nor am i trying to compare them. but im pretty sure that somewhere deep down, i am. so no wonder i havent been happy! no wonder i struggle to be constantly lifted up by the spirit. im too busy thinking with my mind, and not loving this new culture with my heart. i have tried to be very very positive and open minded, but i havent been able to accept it as MY new way of life. its always been THEIR way of life. i havent been able to love it all with an open heart. and thats what i've realized i need to do. and of course, thats what ill do. :) 

i have come to truly appreciate these challenges. challenges in life are only for our good. they will teach us, and give us experience. they will help us have empathy. they will strengthen us if we endure them. i am reminded of Joseph Smith in carthage when he was in the depths of sorrow and dispare. he cried out to god, and his response was something along the lines of 'peace, be unto thy soul. for thy afflictions shall be but a moment. and if thou shalt endure it well, then shalt thou be exalted on high'. what beautiful words! what a beautiful message! can we say that we feel those words in our heart? can we say that we have peace in our souls? 

my goal is to go out into the world and help people around me feel peace in their souls, for they surely are experiencing trials and afflictions. no matter the size of our challenges, the height of our mountains to climb, we can have peace in our souls with the gospel of Christ in our hearts. this is my goal. to spread this beautiful gospel to the people of africa, and bring peace unto their souls through Christ, who can truly comfort all of us. 

this gospel is true, i know it with all my heart and mind. Christ is our Savior. we must follow Him, we must lean on Him. and then will we find peace in this life. may we endure it well!

 

Love,

Elder Fairwell