Sat, 7 Apr 2012 10:16:41
So far, at day 10, the MTC has been an incredible experience. I have been able to sleep soundly for a full 8 hours every day, and I can tell how much it affects me, not only in physical energy, but also clarity of thought . It feels marvellous. I have come to love and respect each of the elders that I learn and experience everything with . For some reason, I had several of the elders pull me aside and said they appreciated me for the strength of my testimony, how I act, and how I affect others. I don’t feel like I have done so, but I am glad I can do what I have. Some of them can be annoying and arrogant, but I have learned to look past that and try to help build them up as I do so for myself. My companion, Elder Madise, and I have developed a good friendship based around singing. We both love to sing, and we have been the music to the dorms for the past week. We have even been invited to sing solos during a musical number at church this coming Sunday. Unfortunately for me, after receiving this opportunity, I became ill and lost my voice. It has lasted all week, and it is improving agonizingly slow. Every missionary here has been trying to give me their own personal remedies, but nothing has worked effectively. I will let you know how it turns out on Sunday...
We were only able to watch the morning sessions of General conference, due to the time difference, but what we were able to see brought much inspiration. I couldn’t help but imagine everyone at home sitting on their couches in pajamas watching the same message, but afterward I had to go to bed.
We had the privilege of going to the Joberg temple this past Tuesday, and I must say, I have never seen a more exquisite temple landscape. I will send pictures, but even those cannot fully express the beauty and peacefulness of the place.
As far as currency is concerned, I am quite wealthy. One American dollar is equal to 8 Rand.
The learning has been great , and I can feel my testimony strengthen each day as I absorb the doctrine and then proceed to teach it. The teaching experience came difficult at first, but it has become easier and easier as I have learned to rely on the power and whisperings of the spirit. It truly is amazing how great it is, and how it has changed my life and attitude as well as the attitudes of the other elders. I have learned to pray at all times of the day, and I now know what Nana meant by callused knees. I pray daily for the well being of everyone back home, and for the comfort and protection that our father in heaven so generously gives. I love you and I know that all is well...
Love,
Elder J. William Davidson
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