No one was ever converted by proper grammar... By: Unknown No comments

Other than wrapping up the madness of last week not much has been going on around here- we had another good devo as always about how important it is to listen to the Spirit and tune out the other loud voices of the world. That really resonated with me with how turbulent the world is becoming- it seems like the one I left behind is a different one than we are living in at the moment with all the political and economic news. However, I have great hope that the Lord will lead us through as we listen for the still, small voice and peace and comfort of the Spirit. It is the one reliable voice we have in these times.

Lately in teaching I found myself a bit too fixated on trying to say "the right thing" or focusing too much on trying to get the grammar right for what I wanted to tell our investigator, and last night I was talking with Sorella Clark and we just realized that the only thing that matters is that we are trying to practice speaking, but we have to feel the things we are saying and really share why they matter. Testifying of personal experiences and simple truths always invites the warmth of the Spirit, and as our wise teacher told us the other day, good grammar never changed anyone's life or conversion in their mission.

So, my goal this week is to stick to the simple things. The gospel of Jesus Christ really is so simple. He suffered for us and atoned for our sins because he loves each one of us so individually. He wants us to come unto Him in faith and embrace this gift of the Atonement and repent. I love that repenting is really just a change in our view of ourselves, others, and the world- it is liberating and so positive- it is letting ourselves become better. I have seen my own testimony of repentance grow so much this last week since it was our sacrament meeting topic on Sunday, and it has grown as I have sought to come closer to Christ through sincerely praying and focusing on reading the Book Of Mormon. It is all too easy to let the basic things slide with how busy we are here but I know that those two simple things help me feel the Spirit in my life more than anything else.

Ah I love you all more than I can say, and I know this Gospel is true. I wouldn't be here if I didn't know that for myself, and honestly I know this is exactly where God wants me to be right now. I am learning and growing so much, through the small and simple experiences I have each day (and seriously every day feels about 10 days long haha) but I am so grateful for this opportunity to become more like my Savior.

 I am very hopeful about what the Gospel can do for people in Italy and I love that thought about helping the less-active members or even just members feel more connected to the strength of the church! With the increasing evil there is also increasing good and I'm grateful to be on the hopeful side of that on the Lord's errand. President Monson always says when you are on the Lord's errand you can expect the Lord's help. Italy is going to be so fabulous!!!

In 2 emails I'll be writing from Rome- wooooot wooooot SO EXCITING! Love you fam, thanks for the wonderful Trader Joe's snacks (the roommates were a little jealous but I am a good sharer) and thanks to all for the continued support and prayers! In boca lupo-

xoxo Ciao,

Sorella Gleave