Snail Mail dated 24 Nov 2009 (written BEFORE his transfer to the new area)

Oi Familia!
So first, the letter I'm responding to is from 1 Nov, which was a little while back. Dad talked about his first haircut in Japan. Haha - I've always wanted a straight razor shave -- I hear it gets the job done much cleanlier (yes cleanlier is what it says!) than a normal razor.

I find sometimes that the missionary pace (which Dad spoke about) is quite a pace indeed. We get home usually about 9-9:15, and after planning, I'll take a quick shower and hit the sack at 9:45. Needless to say, I've still got no trouble sleeping. : )

So the new mission president spoke at Stake Conference? Well, I encourage you guys to do what he has suggested. If he's anything like President Bezerra, he is inspired of God. I will also say that after Conference it is easy to be excited about the Gospel. It is much more difficult to retain those feelings -- think back to what you felt while he spoke, and try to continue with those feelings. When was the last time GB3 had a baptism? Do you guys believe it could be you to bring someone else to the Gospel? If not, believe it. And when you do, do you have the faith to begin the work? If not, have it. Read Ether 12, which, as you know, is on faith. Guys, our family is special. I know this now more than ever. There really are people looking for truth in this life. I think many people believe this, but not in their own lives. The exist. They're all around us. I used to say proudly to my friends that many people didn't know I was a Mormon. I was so normal that they wouldn't know it. I could not have been more wrong in being pleased with myself about this. We have the truth. The least we can do is let others know how much we love the Gospel. We must be proud of our beliefs, and ready to speak about them at any time. Those who are seeking truth, when they see our joy in the Gospel, will want a part of it. Guys, each of you has a wonderful testimony. Share it. Whenever it comes up. Every Fast Sunday. With your friends, associates, neighbors. BE NOT AFRAID! : ) People will not be offended. I think many times I didn't want to invite people to church when I could have -- what will be said at church? It might not be ideal. I've learned that there is no such thing as ideal in the imperfect world we live in. People enjoy church. Do not worry about offending -- people DO have interest. Help them see the real truth -- the greatest truth -- in this life. Let them accept or not -- don't choose for them by not sharing.

Anyway, I'll get off the soapbox now. : ) But these are all things I've learned here. Doing missionary work is truly something that brings joy. For many, it only brings a lot of stress : ) It will not be stressful for you guys if you share with love. It's not a math equation -- it will come naturally to you guys as you share with love. Just talk about the Gospel and the happiness it brings. And you'll find yourself surprised at how easy it will be to invite those who show some interest to Sacrament Meeting, or FHE.

Okay, off the soap box -- REALLY -- now : ) : ) : ) : )
So, as you can see, I've changed pens - it's now 30 November 2009. I got the letter previously mentioned last week after p-day had ended. Blah. But all is well. You guys got it eventually, right?

So Leese, you said you wanted SPORE for Christmas? I got to play that game before the mission and it's a lot of fun. I'd recommend it : ) Katie'll like it, too. And of the three holidays (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas) I love Christmas the greatest. Only a little bit more and I get to talk to you guys! Very exciting : )

Well, I love you guys! Hope all is well!
Love love love love : )
Elder McGregor