how sweet

Family, 

We had a great week. It was really eye-opening with our mission tour on Thursday morning. Elder Aidukaitus came and had a lot to say about ways to improve our planning. He made a huge point of the quote in Preach My Gospel that says if we want to make the most of our mission and to reach our potential, we must master the skill of setting a goal and striving to reach it. His stories really inspired me to work harder and have more faith. He spoke really boldly and I think it put some more energy in the mission. We're trying hard to apply what he shared, especially in our planning efforts. Yesterday I was thinking about when I was first learning to drive,  somebody told me that new drivers tend to just focus on what's right in front of you, but more experienced drivers will look further ahead and are more aware of their surroundings. I feel that it relates well to life, and the need for missionaries (or anyone) to look further ahead as to be able to handle the load of work our Father wants us to have. It was a really interesting and uplifting mission tour.

Friday night we went to visit a potential investigator. She's a lady for whom we helped carry groceries in one day. When we rode up to her house, she was sitting outside reading the Bible. We asked if we could read with her and sat down with her on the porch. It turned into a very spiritual lesson, with her husband joining us as well. We taught the importance of the Book of Mormon in knowing whether or not our message is true. And if it's true, it's the most important message in the world. Her husband had a couple concerns and my companion turned to the wife and asked her to answer his question. She was so good, and helped us three times to answer and explain to the husband the need to put God first. It was so clear by the way we felt and how focused the wife was that she felt the Spirit. I really want to help more people understand the need to read and pray about the Book of Mormon. Our message comes from God, and there is nothing else greater. If others are sincere and want to know, God will bless them with a confirmation. We don't need to fear or doubt. It's the truth.

Good luck with Gma and Gpa. Hang in there. I heard about Ben's Spanish class, which I think is awesome! I love each of you and support you with my whole heart. We are having priceless experiences here and learning how to be better disciples of Christ. May you have similar experiences this week in your activities. I love you!

Elder Joshua Gathro