Shot Clock

It is frightening how quickly time is running out. I am so grateful for my mission, and I couldn't be more grateful for the experiences that the Lord has allowed me to have here.

President and Sister Collins went home this week. It was crushing to say goodbye to them. President and Sister Hathaway arrived this last week and we had an opportunity to meet them and their six children. I don't know if I've ever met such a special family. I would serve another year around them if I could. As good as it gets.

We had the baptism of our friend Tasha and her two kids. She is a single mom that went through some pretty tough times a few years ago. We found her a few weeks ago, and she immediately understood the necessity to change her life. She stopped drinking and smoking, and overcame multiple challenges in order to be baptized. While we stood in the water, she broke down sobbing.

We are teaching a man named Rey. He is probably around 70 years old. He had a severe stroke a few years ago, and is blind in one eye, and can't hardly see out of the other one. He has difficulty hearing and speaking as well. He told us that both of his parents passed away, as well as his wife and one of his children. He has four grandkids who mean the world to him. He expressed to us he wants to be baptized to be able to live with his family forever. Watching him walk into church, alone, with his walker was a sight I won't soon forget.

I'm feeling so much joy. I have done my best to cherish every second.

"He answers privately,

Reaches my reaching

In my Gethsemane, Savior and Friend.

Gentle the peace he finds for my beseeching.

Constant he is and kind,

Love without end."

Elder Smythe