We got a call on Tuesday from a man that we do service with. I met him just a couple of weeks ago while bagging diapers and sorting milk substitutes. We do service for an institution that provides mother and newborns with basic needs if they can't get them with their own financial reservoirs. He called and invited us to a luncheon for all the people that do service there. I should have expected what the party was like just because he used the word 'luncheon'. The following day we all met together in our best clothes, (our only clothes), and carpooled there together in a beat up van that the recently returned RM of the our mission drove. We rolled up to the home and realized we were very out of place. We parked the van with the grill recently zip-tied to the front as the RM adjusted his Nike shoes, dollar store sunglasses and scratched his new beard. We walked down to the home to find that they had valet parking. We were out of place. We entered the home to find classy Expressionistic art and live classical music being played. Every wall of the place was covered in art and new pieces of Pinterest gold that every soccer mom would kill for. We were escorted outside to find the source of the classical jams. Three brothers sat in pricey chairs as they played Gynompedie #5 , an Elder Thomas favorite, on a violin, cello and viola. They each had beards and hipster socks, presumably. The tent next to them was full of more middle aged women who do service there as well and ate the typical luncheon foods; salad and pasta. Don't worry Mom, I tried it all, but I did think I was in Zupas a couple of times. After the luncheon we were allowed to tour the home. With my basic knowledge of the Arts, I took the group of misfit missionaries on a tour of the home describing the art. Most of it was made up but they don't need to know that. The tour concluded with a photo of me looking into a Pollock style piece. I looked at the picture after it was taken to discover some startling news. Not only am I balding at my hairline but also at the back as well. In the wise words of Elder Wilkey, "Roman conquest; it hits at the heart and works it's way out". So it is with my hair. I self diagnosed myself, due to the absence of George Costanza, with me being completely bald before I return home.
I love this mission. I love the people, even though I don't always understand their Spanish. I love the Lord and I try to do my very best to follow Him because that is the only way to find true happiness. I know that by doing the simple things every day, like reading scriptures, praying and going to church, we will grow closer to our Savior, have a desire to learn and follow the commandments and will find happiness in keeping them. I'm so glad the Lord loves me despite my weaknesses and sin. I hope that I can help others find that love He has for them as well.
Thank you all so much for the prayers and thoughts sent my way! I love you all!
Adios, Elder Thomas
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| Joanne's breakfast Extravaganza! She calls the Elders every morning to give them a weather update. She is 93 years young. We got a call from her on Easter to give us a Happy Easter message from Ian. She is an angel for these Elders in the field and for their mothers. |
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