Hey guys,
Its sad to think that i'm only going to be Anziano Lane for just a few more days, but times come and times go. It the way things go.
Well, i guess my mission is just about over. Just like we read in Timothy about fighting a good fight and finishing the course... i honestly feel like i've done what i could, and the only people that can truly know that are me, my Savior, and Heavenly Father. It has at times been the most difficult experience of my life, but i'm eternally grateful that it's been that way. Those tough times have helped me grow immensely and become closer to my Heavenly Father and Savior. They've helped me truly understand how powerful he is and how much he loves us. I will never forget my mission nor the people nor the testimony that has grown in my heart during these years.
Its going to be tough adjusting to normal american and swedish people again. The Italians are a little particular. Always, sharing whats on their minds, always wanting to talk to you even if it takes yelling at you from 100 yards away or from another apartment building from the balcony parallel to yours. They have horrible road rage and i love it, and they'll tell teach you hand gestures in hundreds of different ways. They are the most family centered people i've ever met, they cant get their kids to leave the house until their in their 30's. They are super stubborn (that's where i fit in really well, haha), and they love to take their time, sit back and relax. I just love the Italians!!!!!!
I cannot honestly think of anything that has ever been harder for me to do than to leave the beautiful people of Italy. I cant express how much i love the people that i've been able to contact, teach and baptize. These people are choice spirits, and its with them where i've lived the greatest 2 years of my life. I will never forget the wonderful people of Terni, the people of Foggia, the people of Crotone, the people of Caserta, the people of Rome, and all of the people of Italy. I will continue to pray and fast for them forever and ever.
I thank my parents who have helped me along the way, who have made it possible for me to be a missionary, and for all of their support and love through each day of my mission. I'm grateful for the prayers that have been offered in my behalf... they have all been answered and felt. I thank my Savior and Heavenly Father for their presence and their companionship through all of the highs and lows of this experience. I'm grateful for all of my companions and my Mission President and Sister Kelly. Mama Mia quanto mi hanno aiutato durante la missione.
I know that this is the church of Christ. I know that if we follow our Savior, we will not fall, we can't fall. He wont allow us to. I know that he died for everyone, and if cant forgive someone else or ourselves, we are denying the power and sacrifice of the atonement. This is the way, and there is no other way nor name given whereby man may be saved. It is only through the Lord. God is with us. His plan is perfect and he knows us and our trials. He wont burden us more than we can support, i know that with all of my heart. I know that the Lord will show unto us our weaknesses as we come unto him, and though him, our weaknesses may become strengths.
My mission has taught me many things, I will never forget it, after all, its changed my life. I love Italy, and it'll be sad to leave, but, 2 years is 2 years. It's taken a toll on me, im tired and worn out. I'm ready to get back and start the rest of my life. I love you all and i'll see you on Friday.
a dopo,
Anziano Lane
