John Deere

My P-day was changed to Wednesday this week because we have transfers this Friday. I am staying here in Springfield and am so excited for another 6 weeks here. Elder Bednar is also coming next week to speak to us.


On Saturday, we had Marvalous' baptism. It was such a special moment to watch her husband baptize her and watch them take the step together. We are going to the temple with them in a couple of weeks, and they can't wait to be sealed there in a year.


We have been teaching this man named Kirk. A couple of weeks ago, we had a long day, and it was 90+ degrees. It was 7:45 pm on a Saturday, and we decided to go knock on an apartment complex. The 4th door that we knocked was Kirk's. I was immediately engulfed in flames and smoke from all of his cigarettes, and as guilty as I feel now, I originally thought that there was no way he would be interested. He told us he usually goes to church with his neighbor but would like a ride, and that he would be ready at 8:30 for us to pick him up. One of the members picked him up and brought him to church. We then taught him on Monday evening, and he is now going to be baptized in 2 weeks from now. He completely quit smoking and is the most Christ-like man I have ever met. The ward loves him, and he has already memorized everyone's names. He casually talked with our stake president the other day. One of the coolest experiences of my life. I feel like I am teaching my grandpa.


I am loving the mission. There is nothing better than this. This is so, so good.


With love,

Elder Smythe











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