May 28, 2013

Hello,

I had a super sweet experience on Sunday. Jon Schmidt came and performed for our stake! His son is an Elder here, and is finishing his mission next week. Jon just got done with two sold-out concerts, and then came and performed and taught at this fireside for all the missionaries and our investigators and less-active members, and members who are fellow-shipping them. He played some great songs, and gave context to them by testimony and teaching the Gospel. It was super special! He reminded me of how special this area is, and gave me some words to describe it to you, that perhaps I've neglected to give.

This state of Washington is one of the most stunning in all the nation, and even the world. We have trees, and not just trees, but huge varieties, all mixed in together covering rolling hills and sweeping valleys, into which are carved towns and cities. The rain takes away your view sometimes, but when it breaks, there are huge blue mountains in the distance. Every so often, you'll be driving through a neighborhood and take a turn, and discover you've run into the Pacific ocean! It's right here close, but not often seen through the tree cover. There are some of the darkest forest corridors we drive through, just to get to our apartment or into another neighborhood. The variety of life is just stunning. It's unbelievable. When the moon breaks through the clouds on the horizon we get shiny moonlight on the wet streets and leaves. The squirrels are tame. An occasional raccoon pokes its head out as well. Everybody rides bikes in this town, and on sunny days fill the streets. It's pretty sweet!

I will say that with an eye of faith, all these things around us can be witnesses of God's creations (see Alma 30:44). The reason we're able to look at it that way instead of attributing it to a sporadic creation is because we have the basis of the Holy Prophets and the scriptures to help us. Notice how in this verse Alma FIRST mentions them, and their testimonies, and THEN gives attention to how the creations can witness of Him because of our foundation of faith upon the attributes and perfections of God as established in the revelations. It must be in this order, or else it is all the more easy that our perspective be frustrated. The scriptures are a basis for faith, and I know that's true. 

I'm really glad to hear everything went well with the family reunion! I'm so excited that you'll be going on the trek! That's an amazing experience that opens the eyes in so many ways. I know that sacrifice of that type, as done by the pioneers, is what is necessary for us to lay hold upon salvation. I am doing my best to sacrifice myself, my interests, my concerns, and even placing my doubts upon the altar of missionary service, surrendering to He who gave me all. Please pray for me, that I receive greater trust in the Lord, and that I can lay hold upon the faith necessary to sacrifice all things. I know that Heavenly Father loves us, and that He has commanded us to believe and have faith. I know that as we do what is right He will bless us with that faith and peace. I give my testimony, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Love,

Elder Talbot