And in the end, we begin again.

First item of business:

We have a Christmas tree.

No, like you don't understand. It's as legit as you can get as a missionary. Two of the elders dropped it off (it looks kind of like the tree from Charlie Brown?) in front of our apartment as a joke....but we definitely made the best of it. Fixed it up, filled it with makeshift ornaments, and placed my fuzzy pink birthday tiara at the top as a celebratory "Happy Birthday, Jesus" star. I am so proud. I'll take some pictures before Christmas. Just thought you all should know I will be spending this Christmas in style.
Recently, I am learning more and more about the balance between two principles demonstrated in the following verses. They're short, don't worry.
1. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. (Matt. 21:22)
2. Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. (Phil. 4:11)
Are you getting my dilemma? Understand that these concepts are only contradictory in extreme terms. Essentially, ask for what you need, but be content with what you've got. It's an eternal cycle of humility- always learning more how to rely on God for everything and go to Him for help. Always seeking progress and betterment, and finding joy and peace in the blessings you already have. I may never master the balance between these two concepts, but I am trying to get better at them. It seems so often I lean too much on one side or the other.


The beginning of this transfer has been pretty good. I like what Austin talked about today concerning opposition- it really is true. Opposition is necessary for growth, and it's abundant when we are moving in the right direction. Bad things happening when you're moving in the wrong direction are really more consequences than opposition. Similar looking, but very different in nature. Anyways we've been able to spend our time more effectively this week, but with it and the true commencement of winter (first snow, yadda yadda) I have felt myself kind of draining away ha. It is a strange phenomenon. I am happy when we are helping people. The first moments waking up and the slower moments in between (travel time, slow visitor center shifts, etc) it becomes increasingly harder to function. No worries- I will pull through just fine. Ultimately the greater the challenge the greater the glory, right? Completing my mission in just over 5 months will be a great accomplishment because I will have given everything I knew how. If I didn't know 100% that the things we are teaching are true I would have come home by now. Not just that I know it a little bit, or that I ignore the parts that I'm not sure about, but the whole message. Those young guys in ties and actually know what they are talking about! And that makes it worth everything. I would do all of this over again.


I hope everyone is happy and healthy at home. Don't let this Christmas pass by! No sense the "grin and bear it"attitude when there is so much to be thankful for.

Love,
Sister Raines

PS I don't mean to preach :) it's just what's been on my mind this week. Just so you all know!