So this week was my first full week as a trainer. Being a trainer is not easy! I am also senior companion which is in and of itself difficult because of the language and various other reasons, and I am often reminded of the scripture in Ether that says "I give unto men weaknesses that they may learn to be humble..." I am certainly learning how to be more humble and more patient. And also learning how to really trust the promise that if we are humble and diligently seek the Lord's help, "Weak things shall be made strong." I also think much about the scripture in Alma that says "By small and simple means are great things brought to pass." This gives me a lot of hope that in spite of my difficulties and weaknesses, I really can work the miracles the Heavenly Father sent me here to do.
The most prominent change that has happened here is that it has gotten even hotter! It is breaking 40 degrees Celsius every day, sometimes up to almost 45, which is roughly 105-115 degrees Fahrenheit. Even more incentive to get people into the baptismal font, right?
Well, as news here in the field is lacking this week, I just want to let you know I am doing well here. I love Brazil. I love being a missionary. I love my Heavenly Father. I know this gospel is true. I know Christ is our Savior. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is His kingdom established again on the Earth to prepare the world for His return.
Yes, there were times I doubted. There were many times I really wondered if I had a heavenly father. Many when I really wondered if the Book of Mormon is true, and if Joseph Smith really was a prophet. Many when I wondered if I really did have a Savior who knows and loves me and that I really wasn't alone. I wondered much, but I can honestly say now that I know. I wouldn't be who I am if these things weren't true. I sought much to know. And now I do know, and the knowledge gives me strength to press onward even when I don't know how everything will work out. I feel that way now, as a trainer, here in Saracuruna, Duque de Caxias, Brazil. Without God I am just one little person without much of a purpose. But knowing I am a son of God, knowing that He will give me all I need, even the power to perform miracles if necessary, I am no longer just one little person. Elder Alves and I are not just two confused young adults. We are instruments in the hands of an Almighty God called to do His work, and every member of the church in any part of the world is a force for good. A force for good that a decaying world really needs. We all have a part in the plan of our Heavenly Father.
Well, I am almost out of time here. My family, my friends, I love you. I really do. And I pray for you. Thank you so much to everyone who has written me or sent me things, it makes me feel so good to know I am not forgotten. It is easy to feel alone, and I am learning more than ever how important each person in my life is and has been. And I am replying to the letters I have received! Sorry for the delay some of you are experiencing... but know a reply will come as soon as I can send it.
Seek the best! You are never alone! And if you are reading this email it means that in the least you mean something to me. And remember you mean a whole lot more to Heavenly Father!
All the best,
Elder Viglione
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