On Sunday, we had another baptism! She was a really special case. Her name is Camila. Her mom is not a member because she lives with someone she can't marry. All of her sisters are members and her aunt is the Primary President of the ward. A few months ago, her mom came up to us and was like, "My daughter is turning 8 on the 22 of November. I need y'all to come baptize her." It was super strange but awesome. Her mom, a non member, realizing the importance of the step of baptism. Her service was pleasant. It's nice to know that she has such a great support system behind her. Her aunt is the Primary President for Pete's Sake! Some times, God just smiles upon us and blesses us with easiness in life. We just need to thank Him and He gives more.
This week, it's been a nice opportunity to think upon the many blessings I receive every day. When one is thankful, one is happy. It doesn't matter if you have a lot or a little, if you're thankful, you're happy. if your not, you're not. It's as simple as that.
Thanksgiving was good here! We had breakfast with a Senior Couple of missionaries, The Laws. Then we had dinner with the Markhams. It was certainly the baggiest day of my mission. It was awesome. Thursdays are the days we have P-Day here in the office because it's usually one of the calmest days in the week. This P-Day, we started off by going to look for a new pair of shoes for me. I found a nice pair for $4!! That's it. They are in super nice condition too. They won't be very nice for long, but that's fine. They were only $4 after all. Then we came into the capital to the Laws to have breakfast. A couple of days before, i made a comment of how i really missed biscuits and gravy. What did she make for breakfast? Biscuits and gravy!! It was SO good. I LOVE southern food! It's just so comforting. So, i threw it down in breakfast. I was absolutely stuffed. So, i went and took a little nap on the Laws' extra bed that they have. The bed has a memory foam pad on it. It was the softest bed i had tried out in 18 months. it was heavenly. But then the rest of the gang came and woke me up.
But, at least it shows that they love me, right?
After the huge breakfast, the rest of the Elders left, but Elder Roney and i stayed behind. We wanted to help Sister Law make the pies for the dinner that night. So, we turned up the Christmas music, washed our hands, and got to work! It was a super nostalgic moment as if we were helping our moms or grandmothers in the kitchen during holiday season. It was great! (Pictures will be at the end of the post.)
Between breakfast and dinner, i ate nothing! I was stuffed all day. Dinner was at 9:30 at President's house. We got there and there was turkey, creamed corn, homemade rolls, mashed potatoes, dressing (stuffing), fruits, green beans, and pies. It was heaven! So, we dug in and ate til we couldn't eat any more, like you're supposed to do on Thanksgiving, right? It was a great time. We got home at about 11.20 that night and went straight to bed. I love being part of the Office, it's so fun. But also, i'm ready to get back out in the field all day every day. (Less than two weeks before i'm in the field again!!)
One of the most Spiritual Experiences happened on Wednesday of this week. It was amazing. It happened with a 19 year old guy named Pablo Chiquin. We saw a miracle. As we talked to him, he received his answer from Heavenly Father. He had been investigating the church for 1.5 years without receiving an answer. That night, he received it. We were teaching by the Spirit about the Spirit. One of the most powerful lessons i've ever taught. I felt ''the surge'' every time i testified. Then the moment happened. I looked at him. Paused. Then said, ''you're fear for getting baptized is...and then told him.'' He sat there impacted by the Spirit, because no man made me know these things, but the Spirit. His eyes shot open and his jaw dropped. I then testified and resolved his doubt. Then silence. In that moment, the Spirit penetrated his heart. He grabbed his chest and said, "i feel peace..............I feel as though God just forgave me and i have forgiven everybody else.............i haven't felt a peace like this in 8 years.............i feel peace." For like 10 minutes, we just sat there. Nobody said anything. Pablo was crying, i was crying, Elder Hansen was crying, and Pablo's girlfriend was crying. It was a miracle. It was an incredible experience that has changed my life. This email doesn't do it justice. At whatever moment during the mission, i will be ready to share this experience. God answers prayers. Of that, I testify and promise as a Representative of Jesus Christ.
In this Thanksgiving Spirit, I would like to say one thing that I'm thankful. I'm thankful for so many things, but at this time, I'm thankful especially for one. I'm thankful for the way the mission has changed, is changing, and will change me. The mission is a miracle that changes people, if they let it. I can promise, I will not come home the same person I was before. Count your blessings. It really will surprise you what the Lord has done.
i love y'all! I love the mission. I never want to leave. When i talk about home, i don't think about it as a 'Finally!' I think about it as a 'Oh no, i still have so much to get done!' Time is fast and short. Appreciate it and take advantage of every moment given.
Y'all be safe now, ya hear?!
-Elder Hunt
Elder Hansen and Elder Santiago
Camila's baptism
Making pies
Pies made
Dinner with President Markham
Free shoe shine
Fell asleep waiting for church to start after a big lunch
Biscuits and gravy
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