Letter home on 3/25/08

All right lets see how this thing works. My typing is off today so it will probably be a little un- coordinated. Elder Q says that when I talk to people on the phone I drop a drawl. which I think is awesome and he just laughs about it. He says I use southern words alot which he thought was just out of joking but I'm serious when I use them. So he says, "oh...hes not being funny. huh:)" like if i ask "what ya'll want for supper?" he thinks I'm being funny. but I'm seriously asking what they want for supper! whats wrong with that? nothing i like it. :)

We are all getting along better. just dumb little things piling up. I have been speaking my mind more than i want to but its helped on some ways. it helps me get some stuff out and really get the whole picture. not just what i think but it helps clear my mind of wrong ideas. so its bitter sweet. Honestly through it all, I have not lost the faith. I have lost the faith in missionaries and repented, but I have not lost the faith that the Lord is helping me every step. And that soo many people pray for me everyday. We are the most prayed for people in the world! So that helps the confidence some. I feel bad for sending any bad vibes home. I apologize. I realize that I shouldn't be quick to judge. I normally don't judge. but when you are around someone soo much and we have a strict code of conduct. you tend to see every step they take outside of it and focus on the bad. so i am really changing how I view myself and others. It amazing how the Lord answered me in His own time and no soo much my time. He tested me to see how much"long-suffering" i could endure. and I guess it was a long time. because it has been a super long time to me. But to Him like a second. Because He sent His spirit "to comfort me when faint." and "I feel my Savior's love" especially as I do what I love doing most. serving others. its crazy how it works out. i love to serve. especially knowing I won't get anything on the other end makes me happy. because then I know its the right reasons and I hate doing things for the wrong reasons. So i serve others and it helps me feel better as well as become a better person. I realize my own weaknesses and work those out as I work with others.

My new favorite scripture chapter is Ether 12. And i extend to all of you a challenge to read and pray about it. especially verse 27. its great to talk about. and it cross references perfect with Alma 32. So please read and pray and ponder about those scriptures. because they will humble you and make you realize how much you need the Lord's trials. I got a million but it only feels like 1 small one. because of this amazing blessing from the Lord. Matthew 11:28-30. and then i think about in times of trial, this is the Lord in my response to help, "And immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand and said, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?" (Matthew 14:31) just remember that He immediately stretches forth His hand and tells us to be of good cheer and have faith. I challenge you all to look to the Lord in times of need. I know He will help us if we ask Him.

Love Elder Malone