Today is a good day. Today was the first day that it's rained the whole time here at the MTC. It is my last preparation day here at the MTC. It is also my first time 'Hosting' incoming missionaries--telling them where to go and letting them now that everything is going to be fine (one elder is going to Perth). It was the last time I'd go to the temple for 2 years, and I had a marvelous time (the cafeteria was also very very very good. It feels good to eat something that reminds you of mornings at the counter...and I don't mean cheerios). Today ended my consecration week. But I like to say it didn't. For, I learned stuff this week that I think I'll keep with me for the rest of my mission. For example, I probably wont eat as many sweets. More importantly, I learned stuff at the devotionals that was very insightful in what I need to do to be a better missionary. This week was also the last week being a Zone Leader. I've truly loved the opportunity. I've learned a lot; how to reprove and love, how to be an example always, how to follow the lords plan, how to be hard on yourself and lenient with others, how to listen to the holy ghost. We received 18 new Hungarian missionaries who all have a great desire to serve. I've loved having them ask me questions about everything; I just love helping them. And so, with last minute dry cleaning, final stops to the bookstore and mail-room, and studying as much as I can, I'm ready to go to Albania.
This week we watched a video of the people speaking....MAN it was fast! I could understand and undisclosed percentage of what they were speaking. One thing that makes me happy is knowing that I'm on the Lords side. I have no regrets here at the MTC. I've been obedient and I know that I'm where the Lord wants me to be. I know that I know the language to the extent possible for me. I feel confident in my reading capabilities and I try to continue to speak it as Consecration week just finished.
I have a testimony of testimonies. This week I was asked by a few people to write in departing notebooks my testimony. At first I thought, "what will I write?" But, then I realized that it was a great opportunity to build someone up. I could really say anything I wanted in my writing and it would be with them forever. My note would be unselfish, knowing that I'd never probably see it again, and so, all my thoughts that went through my pen could be directed by the spirit to help the person I was writing testimony to. As I wrote, I felt the spirit, and I felt that what I was writing was true. And so, I say unto you, speak or write the thoughts that God shall surely put into your hearts. Don't be afraid to bear testimony to anyone, or to WRITE a testimony to anyone. Think of old acquaintances, co-workers, old missionary companions, law school chums, dorm buddies, kindergarten playmates, old presidency members, investigators, cousins and grandparents. Written words have much power because they cannot be erased (unless its in pencil or they throw it away). One person I know that is very good at this is Aunt Dianne. I've received over the years cards from her; on my birthday, graduation, and other times. Each one I know was sent with love and I cherish. I know she's told me she cares for me many times, but when it's written it's different. I think she may also get it from her parents who also sent me a package here. It really can make your or someone else's day. I think if the savior were here, he'd write thank you notes and merry Christmas cards (Just think of what the first presidency does for Grandma Bangerter)
I've learned a lot here at the MTC. Honestly I don't know exactly what, but I think a lot of it is just natural habits and mind set...and language. We only have one investigator now this week named Rafaela. We said goodbye to Mihal last week and it was nice because he accepted a baptismal date. Rafaela is a wife with one daughter who is catholic and goes every week. Mihal is a 'Muslim'. However they both love the lessons because they are new and applicable. The Gospel is for everyone. Every person on earth is a descendant of Adam. I know I love my ancestors, so we need to get everyone to turn their hearts to their fathers, the ancient of days, those men who knew the gospel and would want their descendants to hear it as well.
Oh yeah, I ran into Elder Sam Clare here! I don't think I've seen him since we were about 10, but I still recognized him and his Clare smile. It is so fun to run into so many people from many walks of life. I love you all so much. I'm going to miss this rainy beautiful Utah weather, but Albania Here I come!
Love,
Elder Bangerter
P.S. Ok, these are my travel plans:
Leave SLC for Chicago on Tuesday, April 1 at 10am MDT and arrive 1:15pm MDT. I leave Chigago at 3pm MDT and arrive in Vienna on Wednesday, April 2 at 12:40am MDT. I leave Vienna at 4:45am MDT and arrive in Tirana, Albania at6:20am MDT. In Albania I'll be having a Chinese tootache!
I guess maybe I speak to you? They haven't told me anything, but if I do I guess it would either be before I leave from SL (10am) or in Chicago (1:15-3pm)
P.P.S. April Fools! I leave on the 2nd
P.P.P.S. Just kidding april fools, its the 1st
P.P.P.P.S. Really it is the first and I'm not kidding, because this is super important
P.P.P.P.P.S Sorry BYU better luck next year, or in two years when I'm back with the rest of our team!
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