The Humbling Example of Alfonso

¡Hola!  :)

Okay so one of my favorite Investigators is Alfonso. I will tell you more about him later, his baptism is set in April. A mission rule is that they have to attend church 5 times before they can be baptized, because retention was bad before. So he has come once before, he is like 70, and in a wheelchair, because he was in a car accident a year ago. So we went with a member to his house to pick him up for church yesterday, and he wasnt there. Dah. So we went back to the church, some of our other investigators were there, but they dont want baptism... yadda yadda. And of course others never showed up. And then halfway through sacrament, who do I see coming through the door?! Alfonso! So we help him find a spot for his wheelchair in the Chapel. We asked him what happened. And he said, that he came the whole way by himself. Which is about 25 blocks! He is man full of faith, full of love, and he knows the Gospel is true. He is so humble, and so eager to learn, and easy to teach. I told my companion that now there is no excuse acceptable for investigators when they say they cant make it to church. If Alfonso can bring himself 25 blocks in a wheelchair in the heat, anyone can find their way here. In my moment of doubt, of discouragement, Alfonso arrived, so in that moment I sent up a prayer of gratitude, for the example of Alfonso in my life.

Like yeah... maybe even this redhead is getting a little tan from the rays of Mexico, who knew it was possible.

This is Rosario, she is 90 years old, close to 91. I greeted her one day in the street, we walked with her and she let us visit her at her house. We sang a Hymn, and read some scriptures. We have also taught her the first lesson on a visit. She doesnt seem to want to attend church, she leans more towards being Catholic. But we still visit her, and just love her. Some people think Missionaries are robots, just looking for baptisms. No, Rosario lives alone, we just make sure that she knows she is loved, and that we can help her with anything she needs. This isnt the best picture of her. If you get her to laugh, with her toothless grin and giggle, she is a hoot.

Here is a little piece of Paradise for you to enjoy. The sunset with clouds here are unreal some days.

Today I am happy, I am blessed, and I am excited and pumped to continue in the work. Know that you make a difference to those around you. There is someone out there who is alone, who needs a friend, some people just simply need a smile sent their way, be that person, be the difference in their life. And when you are found in a time of need, it can be sent back your way.

Love Always,

                    Hermana Smith