September 29, 2015

"And once the storm is over, you won't remember how you made it through, how you managed to survive. You won't even be sure whether the storm is really over. But one thing is certain. When you come out of the storm, you won't be the same person who walked in. That's what this storm's all about."

- Haruki Murakami

This week was a week where I could really see how much the Lord loves everyone. I have been struggling lately with a bunch of health issues like muscular pain and feeling very fatigued, getting another ingrown toenail removed (sorry I didn’t tell you mom), and getting bitten by a dog. So, I’ve been feeling a little down. These past few weeks have been flying by, but, in a way, it feels like the days never end and only bring sad news. But, I am working through it. I had a lot of hard moments this week, and I feel like I had fallen into a small depression. It was getting hard for me to work. But, I learned something the other day: the Atonement of Jesus Christ covers everything.

EVERYTHING... I learned a lot in those few minutes when I was thinking. I learned about all that the Savior of the world had done for me. He understands. In fact, He knows. He experienced it. I had put limits on the power of His infinite atonement. I now know how powerful His sacrifice for all mankind is. He paid the price for my sins, yes, but He also paid the price for my sufferings and my hardships. Knowing He did all of that makes me understand that it won’t be too hard for me and that I may overcome them with His help. I had just forgotten all that. But, now I know it, and I won’t forget it again.

This week was crazy with a group of investigators! We found a group of Haitians, and we went to teach them about the restoration. It was going to be great, and then we learned that one of their friends only speaks French and Creole (the language of Haiti). We taught them and prayed for the gift of tongues. As we taught, I began to understand what they were saying!!! It was awesome. They are so receptive to the message, and I feel like we will be able to give them a day to be baptized. 

This week was really good for me. I was able to feel the power of the atonement and the power of the spirit. I hope that you are able to feel it in your life as well, for it is always there. Recognize what the atonement does for you. It will never fail you. Hope you have a great week. Love you all!

Elder Gale