Well, things are coming along super fast, much faster than I expected. To all those who didn't know, I will only be in the MTC until next Monday, the 6th. And even then, I will be leaving very early in the morning, so it hardly counts. I will be in the air before most of the missionaries are even awake here.

 

It seems like such a short time to prepare. Less than three weeks to learn how to teach people who may have never even heard of Jesus Christ how to belive in him and his Atonement? It's insane! Even more insane is how the Lord expects 19 year olds to learn how to do this! Needless to say, I was at least a little skeptical before I came here to the MTC. I have since repented. As Gabriel says to Mary "With God, all things are possible."

 

To those of you thinking about going on a mission, or who are working on their papers, or have their calls, know this: The MTC is an intense learning environment. While you are here, you will be studying for hours upon hours, teaching within the first 24 hours of being at the MTC, and drastically changing your planning and scheduling habits. But, it will be incredible. So incredible that when you leave, like myself, you will realize how much more you still have to learn, even though you have been learning non-stop for weeks on end.

 

For those of you that want a head start, learn charity. Learn how to care about people from the moment you meet them. And when I say care, I mean caring enough to listen to them, to have a desire to understand them, as well as a desire to help them. This is one of the things which is one of the most emphasized and most needed attributes of a missionary.

 

Nearly as important is obedience. Obedience is the shield which protects missionaries, and everyone for that matter. Being a missionary is difficult business. As prophets have said, the forces of the adversary try their hardest to weaken those who are already strong. By remaining obedient, you keep yourself from being placed in temptation and qualify yourself for the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost. This is something which can help everyone in their daily lives.

 

Anyway, thats enough preaching. It's been great here, but I'm super exicted to get out to the field. Then, I will have actual stories to tell. Things are pretty routine here at the MTC, so there really isn't much to say.

 

As always, I love getting letters. Just be sure to send them to the correct address. My MTC address is listed on the sidebar. My permenant mission address is there as well. I love hearing from people and will answer every letter which I get.

 

Lots of love to everyone. The Church is so incredibly true.

 

Elder Alex Anderson