Elder Truman Burgess

You'd think that the snow would have eased up even a tiny bit now that we're in March.

 

 

NOPE.

 

Thursday had 12 inches of despicable snow. To think I once had an affinity for the stuff...disgusting. I need some good ol' dirt and sand in my life. Get this: It's 65 degrees outside right now and there is still sheet on sheet of snow covering every patch of ground in sight. Maryland is whack. On top of the now storm we had another ice rain phenomenon while I was on exchanges with Elder Hall, one of the Zone Leaders with the driest sense of humor I think I've ever come across (Even drier than yours, Brother Ron). We slipped and slid up driveways 50 yards long. I'd be lying if I said I didn't fly three feet in the air as a door opened up with a stranger. That definitely didn't happen. ...

 

I also had my first District meeting as District Leader in which the mission president, President Richards, decided to attend for the three hours. That was stressful but everything turned out A ok as usual when I'm around >:) heh heh heh

The responsibility that accompanies stewardship over seven other missionaries can be quite intimidating. I've found that the secret to dealing with high stress scenarios is to be yourself, nothing held back. If you know me well, you know that that can be explosive sometimes with me :)) Even if you fail a task, if you were true to yourself you will always win in my book.

 

This Saturday the Espiritu family of five will be baptized here in Urbana ward. WOOOOOOOOO. Omar, Aisa, Aisaiah, Amari, and Asia are all from the Philippines. Omar is the father, 35, has seen hardship on hardship in his life, was Angelina Jolie's personal bodyguard, and knows how to fight. Like he reallllly knows how to fight. Take my word for it. :) We sparred with Escrima sticks and I got my behind whooped. He's hilarious and has a testimony of the healing hands of God that no one could ever argue. The emotions that stem in conversations with him humble me to my knees. He's had two brain surgeries, ran away and got married at 16, and hasn't talked to his family since. His story itself testifies of the truth of miracles. Being friends with him in person is an experience I could never give justice to through typing in a crowded library.

 

Time and time again I find myself relying on my own intuition instead of God's. Sure, that's a fairly complicated statement, but the relationship within is a simple, basic, yet life-long tried endeavor. Even as a missionary I tip over into my opinion, going back to the natural Truman's rebellious state of mind. It's in those times that God checks me to humility in his plethora of blessings, most of the time in disguise. This past week we came across at least five people who denied the thought of a loving God due to the question why bad things happen to good people. I wish I had time to expound on this, MAN. Something tells me I really couldn't through simple words in an email. What I can testify is the undeniable relationship of perfect, pure, unconditional love that God has for all of us. I can say that with all the surety of my heart because he has saved me. Simply put, he is why I live. Every breath I take, every word I speak, every person I've met is divinely inspired to motivate me to love others. The connection of absolute emotion formed in humble prayer is evidence of how much God cares. Don't take my word for it. Go somewhere quiet and alone and pour out your soul to God in utmost sincerity. I promise you that he will answer.

 

That much I can spew onto a key board and that much I leave with you this week. Oh man I love you all GAAH

 

xoxo

Elder Burgess