This is it! 6/25/08

So... You see, this week has been enlightening. Some of you more than others, know that this transfer has been a bit difficult on me. I recognize it as a trial through which I grow but that doesn't make the light at the end any less sweet! I can see it. I'm not yet there but I catch glimpses of it here and there. I know there are more tunnels ahead and I'll prepare myself for them, but I must do as President Monson directs "Learn from the past, prepare for the future, LIVE IN THE PRESENT."Elder Asay and Elder Smith are Zone Leaders from Edmonton. I have experience with two particular Elders who have everlastingly impacted me. Elder Biesinger and Elder Asay are probably the top two. They're examples of the type of missionary I am seeking to become. Don't think I'm making small of Elder Smith or Elder Jones (who are Elder Asay and Elder Biesingers companions) they are great too, but I've had a very impressive connection with the two Sons of thunder! Oo I like that. I may have to keep that for them. That's the surname given to two of the apostles by Jesus in the New testament. I think the actual surname is Zebedee or something similar.Having Elder Asay here I've learned first hand SO much about how to lead and still have tons of fun! I am trying to learn all I can about the Elders who leave soon so that I can be a better person and missionary. I don't want the lessons they've learned to die with them (in the mission going home is sometimes called dying.)All in all my testimony is reinforced. I can without hesitation declare that this plain and pure gospel is truth. God Loves us. If we don't see it we may have to pray for our eyes to be opened. No person on this earth can be justified in the thought that Gods love for us is anything less than infinite. He loves you. He loves each random person walking, sitting, jogging, paragliding... the point is made! We are blessed to be the hands with which God shows that love. Go out today and answer someones prayers by following the spirit. Mine have been answered often by the works of the faithful.In conclusion I want to give credit to someone who I've unknowingly quoted in the past. I mentioned in one email that Elder Asay has written above his desk "if you're not happy you're not living the plan of happiness." I thought it was a quote he had recieved but in actuality it's a quote he concieved. It is true! Throw on a smile, cast of satans chains, and we will all become more strong and more Christlike.I love you all! Many of you have aided in bringing me to the point in which I stand. I thank you for it. I am grateful beyond my power to express that I am where I am, growing how I'm growing because of things you've done for me.With ever deepening love, respect and gratitude,Elder McCarty (JR)