We felt a little overwhelmed because of the huge amount of people on the street for Chinese new year (it's like Hong Kong, so full!) When we talked to almost all of them, they said they weren't religious, or Buddhist, or too much time working. So inviting them to church, to read the BOM, or other things didn't really connect in the way that I had hoped for. We had even spent time that morning in CS to prepare one minute messages directed to Chinese people, that connected to the Restoration. Those practices were great, and we both improved in that moment (missionaries totally need to practice more, referrals and contacting)
I felt such joy that I could store up these contact approaches (PMG 159, I think "prepare 1 min messages") But the main thing I learned from that was that I was wasting all my studies on my mission; I've studied up doctrine and worked to helping people to baptism, but I never pondered how simply understanding the doctrine could press me forward to sharing with all people. (D&C 11:21) So I have a goal to work hard, but feed that fire with the scriptures and with the Spirit. I want to work hard and give my heart to the Lord, but only if I know it is from the Lord. I know this 400 Goal is from the Lord, and I am so happy as I ponder the great blessings that will come! I also realized I need to be a better Problem solver
For me it has been confusing to delve in so many cultures at the same time, washing over me, but I feel the good values. I have stayed strong, and the weak wash away, and so I let it. I may not speak the language of my mother's tongue, and my father's tongue, but I have their heart, and I know this church is true, and I know the Lord requires a deeper and more passionate desire to know His words and his work than we do now. I wish I could remember this desire in my heart, but It's so cool to see that desire preserved in the scriptures as I make notes and in my journal as I recollect the Lord's hand in my time.
I want to invite us all to seek the Lord to Grow these desires in our hearts. It brings about an even greater good than we could desire. Obedience allows our hearts to feel the Spirit of our Father. I can only say that the more I pray about this and how the Lord is going to strengthen our family, the more answers come from within, from ourselves and each other.
Anyhow, if anyone wants anything in SF just ask Me and Mom and Dad (cause it's their money). I'm sorry for being awful at writing; I still have Samuels birthday letter, and I missed moms birthday, and I have Jessica's letter, and Stephens. They're all halves...
We have Mission Leadership Council this week, and I'll let you know how that goes soon!