Week 101: Tuesday May 12, 2015

Dear Family,

   As I sit down to write this letter to you all today, I can't help but to think back over these past two years. The short time that I have to write you each week cannot even begin to properly express the feelings that I have had over these past 2 years as I have learned to overcome my weaknesses and pride and lose myself in this work and these people. I have found it such a privilege to share my experiences with you each week. I realize that I probably have not been the best at sharing everything that I have gone through, and I probably could have sent more pictures, but I hope that you have all been able to feel the words which I have chosen to send home. During the early months of my mission, I did not always send home the most uplifting or comforting words and experiences. I hope that the effort in which I have made to be more positive and happy has effected you each in a way that has been able to help you.

   I often think about where I would be right now had I not served a mission. I don't think that I would necessarily be a bad person, but I wouldn't be where I am today. This has been a great time for me to learn so many important things that will bless me both spiritually and temporally. Things such as hard work, discipline, obedience, humility, positive thinking, creative thinking, love, and kindness. I have learned how to study and how to apply the things that I learn. I have learned the importance of keeping a journal (still working on that one). I have learned to put others before myself and find joy in watching others learn to succeed. I know that I will continue to look back upon the experiences that I have had in my mission for the rest of my life as I accept new challenges and responsibilities in the future. 

   I have by no means served a perfect mission, but that has never been the expectation. However, I think that I can say that I have become pretty good at falling and getting back up again. Falling is part of our existence and nature as humans. It is important to remember, however, that while we all fall, standing back up is only possible through the atonement of Jesus Christ.

   I know and feel with my entire heart that the church is true. I pray that there will never be a time that I set the things that I have learned on my mission aside for the things that the world has to offer. I am so excited to return home. But I will undoubtedly be leaving a large part of myself here in this beautiful land. 

   So get ready...I'M COMING HOME!

Elder Staheli.

Week 100: Tuesday May 5, 2015

Dear Family,

   This week has been great! It's so cool to see how many miracles happen everyday. I love seeing how prepared people are to receive the gospel. I also love seeing people begin to change their lives and start living in accordance to the gospel. I don't think a day passes by that I don't witness a miracle in one way or another. Sometimes they are great, and sometimes you have to look a little closer, but the world is full of miracles just waiting to be witnessed. 

   Last night as me and Elder Ray had the chance to visit the Abordo family. I don't remember if I have mentioned them in previous letters. There are 9 people in the Abordo family; the parents and 7 children. Recently, the 10 month old son of one of the daughters passed away from an illness. We have visited them a few times in the past few weeks to offer our help and condolences. Despite the tragedy that has recently struck this family, I am amazed at how happy they are! Each time we visit them they have a big smile on their face. We were able to teach a lesson to them last night for the first time since the child passed away. As we all sat together in their humble home, the family began to testify to us about the power of family prayer. They shared with us a touching experience. As the young child laid in a small, wooden, hand-made casket in their living room, they knelt together in prayer. As they did so, they received great comfort in feeling the spirit testify to them that they would see the child again. 

   The greatest truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ is that families can be together forever. Nothing has brought me more happiness and joy in my life than my loved ones. I just want to say that I love you all so much. Thank you for always supporting me and being there for me when I have stood in need of comfort and guidance. There is no greater blessing in my life than all of you.

   I also just want to add that James was able to attend church this past Sunday! Despite being sick, he made it. He is awesome and is going to be a great priesthood holder in the church.

   Okay, so for the call home....We will be calling home on Saturday at 10:30 am (8:30 pm on Friday in Utah). Looking at our schedule, this is the best time for us to make the call. If you have any questions or anything, be sure to let me know quickly. 

   I'm excited to talk to you! I love you all!

Elder Staheli.