11.11.13

Hey,

I can't really remember what happened this week but on Tuesday we had a Zone Conference with President and he totally changed my perspective on the mission. I was doing what Conner told me to do and was focused on baptizing, baptizing, baptizing. President Smith is completely against this mentality. He says, “What is the point in baptizing if they won’t stay in the church? How are they going to stay in the church if the ward and the members aren't there to he
lp you? We must do as the prophet has asked and work as one with the ward.” So, we have been working a lot with these members and trying to strengthen the wards. It’s really difficult because we are working with all of the people that got baptized, just to be baptized. There are so many people that don't even understand why they are getting baptized and it makes me sick that I was trying to do that to people and just add more less-active people to the list for the bishop to take care of. It’s going good though and E' Xavier is leaving next Tuesday so I am excited to see what happens this next change. I am still in Cerro 1 and I will send a picture of my paradise. 

I never get to play real soccer so sometimes I just need to kick something… so I kick whatever ugly dog I see on the street. I do however get to play golf with the bishop from another ward because I am the only missionary who is actually semi decent at golf. Gavin would love it. 9 holes every Monday morning...the course is really good too. It’s a good stress reliever and the bishop wants Gavin to come play with us because I told him that Gavin is way better than me. I'm glad Abbie is realizing that High School is super fun. It’s also enlightening to know that college is even better and that a mission is the best! Taylor Venturina was one of my friends at Liberty and wrote me last week saying that she is going to get baptized this year. I really wish that I was more of an example for people and tried to bring them closer to the gospel. We were very selfish of our testimonies and strong-faithed family. I don't have much time to say more because I had a long letter to write Pres. love you and hope you like the pictures.

E' McRae