June 17, 2009

I love serving a mission. I am learning so much from these experiences. For so long i just taught lessons rather than teaching the people. I am now striving to read them and to discover their wants, desires and concerns. Once we know that we can then help them. That is what Elder Kopischke taught us. We cant connect with someone or teach them without their want and desire so to get that we have to know what their concerns and questions are. Today i am in sassari doing exchanges and then at 1 i leave for Olbia doing exchanges there. Ever since we had zone leader council with Elder Kopischke a lot has changed in the mission which is great. We have switched exchanges so that one ZL stays in his city with the companion of the DL of the other city while the other ZL does an exchange with the DL in his city. This means that we do a lot more traveling because we have to go to their city (3-4 hours away and then come right back). It's better this way but it is crazy. I am exhausted but i love serving this Elders. I loved Zone Leader Council. We each brought up one or two ideas of how we can better the mission and change. He told us that we are the leaders of the mission and it starts with us. I never realized that. I always just thought that it was up to the president but i realized that he cant do it alone, we have to be self reliant and get the things done that we know need to get done. The spirit was so strong. I love President Acerson. He knows exactly what i need exactly when i need it. One thing that is hard for me is correcting other elders and as a leader i have to do it or they will keep doing the same things. He said to me boldly with the spirit, "You are where you are for a reason. Move forward and Do it!" I was able to go to Ostia for my Pday and see Barbara and Carmelo. I am excited to stay with them in August. I was able to sing for them and film a few messages to give to 2 old investigators and 1 inactive member. I love the mission. This church is sooo true! Carlos passed the sacrament last week which was great! Love, Elder Beau Brewster