The Tie Half-Mast

Hoy, como vai o mundo?

 

Over the last week, I've come to realize that there are a lot of parties and holidays in Brazil. Just this week was a combination two holidays and one party, which means nothing for us other than our instructors are too tired to teach us for a while. One of the holidays was Kids Day, something that we don't celebrate in America :( but is really big here. Everyone pretty much got off work that day, but it also could have been because it was also Nosso Senhora Aparecido (Our Lady Appeared) Day, which is a major catholic saint around here. The most interesting part of her story, though, is she achieved sainthood as a statue. I don't know all the details of it, but it's pretty interesting.

 

This Saturday was our half day at the Missionary Training Center, so we honored the moment by tying our ties half mast. The funny thing is a day later, we were all asked to avoid "silly traditions." It could be just coincidence, but I'm not ready to accept that. I don't mind giving up traditions, but I'm certainly glad they didn't cancel our shower singing privileges. Just in this last week we've done near imperfect renditions of "Nearer My God, To Thee", "Barbra Ann", and many more beautiful songs. I've actually found that I can be a lot more sociable when you can't see my face.

 

This week I learned a lot about foundational strength. In order to help someone become closer to God, you must always start with the basics. Unless someone is completely solid in their understanding that God exists, that he loves us, and that we can return to him through Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and obedience to his commandments, they will never fully comprehend nor desire the mysteries of heaven. This is my greatest problem, because I'm fascinated by the mysteries of heaven. However, I have realized that as I search for the answers to complex questions, I often may falter in my Faith if i have not established myself sturdily into the recesses that God has provided. We must all learn to build strong foundations in Christ if we seek to know more and not falter. Build in yourselves Faith, Hope, Charity, Love, Diligence, Obedience, Patience and Long Suffering and I promise that you will find all things to have meaning. Follow the example of Christ, and he will follow you wherever you go.

 

I love you all, and thanks for your support and for your prayers.