2 years

As I reflect on my mission, it's hard to think that almost 2 years have passed since I've seen family and friends. I think that as one loses himself in the work, the culture, etc, you kinda just forget about everything else. Not entirely obviously, you still worry about things (school, family, how many people email you haha) but the time has really flown by. I feel like just last week I was in my first area freaking out about everything. 

About 5 years ago I would say that I didn't believe in God. But today I can say without a doubt in my heart that I know that we all have a very loving Heavenly Father. Jesus Christ is my best friend. Both of them know how I and how all of us feel in every moment, and know when to help us, and they do in a very special, divine way.

It's interesting because I can say that not only due to my own experiences that I've had, but also because I've seen hundreds if not thousands of lives touched by Christ and his love. A mission is a wonderful start to a life, and I will never ever be able to thank God enough for the opportunity I've had to represent His Son and His church these two years.

A big thank you to all those who have written me during these past 2 years, sorry that I've been pretty bad at responding to all you guys haha, but when I get home I'll have all day, all week to be able to talk to you guys. In the mission I've got an hour a week hahaha. 

I feel like the biggest change that that has happened to me is my capacity to just love people like crazy. That also means that sometimes I get even more upset and frustrated with people because there are more feelings involved, but I know that life is just so much better when we love. If we can love people life just changes. it's easier, easier to put up with, and really we're just happier. And the best part is that loving isn't just a coincidence, I can choose to love everyone! I don't have to say "well that guy just isn't nice so I CANT love him" I mean it doesn't really work like that. God loves ALL his children...He loves those who make bad decisions, those who accept Him, those who say He doesn't exist, He loves all of us despite our flaws and weaknesses. I'm not perfect, but I have a perfect example to follow, we all have it, and my time as a missionary has helped me to learn more about how to follow Him. 

I love you guys! and I'll see you all next week.

August 18th 6pm - my house

-con mucho amor, Elder Jones