After church, I went home and took a nap while Christina went to Raquel's house to do homework. When she got back, we both had lunch (about 4 PM). And it was sweet because MM and her mother knew about my Uncle Dave's passing and that I was sad today because of his death, so MM's mom came in and gave me a hug and a kiss and talked about a mile a minute about different family things. Even though I could only understand about 10%, it was sweet of her. Here's a picture of lunch (eggplant with CHEESE! And garlic bread. Yum):
After lunch, we came back to our room. I watched some Fresh Prince and tried to do some Family History work before falling asleep. And now, Christina has left for the Centro, but I have stayed behind. Mainly because I need to get up early tomorrow to do homework (we are going on our third excursion at 11 so I'll be getting up at about 5 AM or something to finish up my homework for Tuesday. This is because we won't be getting back from our Excursion til 9 PM. It's gonna be a long day, but a great one!).
Before I sign off, here, I wanted to bear my testimony (it IS Fast Sunday):
I am so grateful for the people here on my study abroad. They've been very supportive and friendly and fun and helpful. (Today, my shoulder sunburn was peeling and started bleeding. One of the girls had Neosporin and band-aids and helped patch me up. Later, when I was itching like crazy, one of the other girls was like, "Don't hurt yourself!" and just lightly scratched my back which helped tremendously!).
I am grateful for my church and my Savior. Both give me hope and purpose in this life. I think it's normal to have sad days, especially when a loved one has passed away. Words cannot express my surprise when the tears came unwillingly to my eyes during sacrament (I had been reading the Eulogy of his funeral - probably should have done that later, but, oh well) or the pain that I felt. I know it's nothing compared to the loss my grandmother, aunts, uncles, mother, and father must feel. But I am so grateful for the Savior. Because He understands. He truly does. He has been there for me, letting me know that it's okay. Knowing that it has been okay to feel sorrowful. And reminding me that this too shall pass.
Maybe I sound a little melodramatic (I blame the large quantity of food I ate at lunch :P), but I know that my Savior lives. I know that He loves me. That He loves ALL of His children - no matter whether or not they feel they deserve that love. I know that, this is just one small moment of my life. That the grief I feel for this day, will pass. I know that God is aware, that He is watching and supporting me every step of this life. That it is through His mercy and grace that I have been able to receive the help I need through various people (angels) in my life. I know that because of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, that I can live with God again. That I can see my family and friends again. And I know, that in the grand scheme of things, this earthly life is so small - yet so great a part of my eternity. I'm so grateful for the gospel, for it has truly brought me joy. I'm grateful for the opportunity I have to serve in the temples of our God, to feel His presence in His holy house. I'm grateful to be here in Mexico, and I look forward to the continued adventures that are here. I'm grateful for my emotions - because without sadness, I would never understand the joy. And I am grateful for the peace and the stability that Christ offers me in this life. And for the power of prayer, that allows me to talk with my Father and Heaven and receive the strength and help that I need.
I know that these things are true. And I am truly grateful for this gospel. In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
R J Carr
Very nice.
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