Linstead - 5

This past week has been a good one. I feel like I've been improving every day. I know that through The Lord I can do anything that He wants of me.

Last Tuesday trade-offs happened and my companion went with the district leader in his area. I led my area with the DL's companion. Having had to lead the area really helped me grow. Of the two of us, only I knew the area, and only I knew the people. We had a very busy day. 6 lessons, and they all seemed to go well. We also recorded 8 potential investigators! The goal is 3 a day, and we've been struggling to get that. Preach My Gospel says to "talk with everyone" and I literally did that in between appointments. I talked with everyone, asked for directions, got to know them, and asked if they'd like to hear more. I know my approach will get more smooth with time, but I was very happy to have gotten 8 potentials. I feel like I've been improving, and I know there are so many areas in which I must improve.

Church this week started at it's usual time 10:12. Hahaha, no one was there by 10 not even the bishopric. The doors shut during the sacrament, and when the doors opened up again, the size of the congregation doubled. Jamaicans come and leave as they please.... but at least they come. Goffery (investigator) came in with 5 of his neighbors that have been referrals from him. It's been great to see how his influence is helping others come unto Christ.

Interviews with President Brown are tomorrow. We've all been excited for this. He's an amazing man. As soon as he saw us in the airport he ran over, gave us a hug, and told us he loved us. He's 39, native Jamaican, and has little kids. Such an amazing man. He knows Jamaica is in need of the truth. All the missionaries here have the highest respect for him. I'm excited for the time I get with him tomorrow.

Funny thing happened this past week. We had a sit-down get-to-know-you with a family that a man named Lincoln wanted us to get to know. Nice family - Mom, 13 yr old girl, 11 yr old girl, and 8 yr old boy. As we were about to leave, it was somehow brought up that Elder Hall's 20th birthday was the next day. They all congratulated him and then the 13 yr old girl got up to give him a celebratory hug. Elder Hall was standing next to me, and I saw the fear in his eyes. Elder Hall is a tough guy. I've never seen him nervous. He's seen some sketchy stuff out here. We've both seen some sketchy stuff out here. He's never been even kind of nervous, let alone completely terrified. As the girl quickly approached him Elder Hall slow started backing away, then faster, and faster, until he was pinned at the grill and put his hands forward to block the hug. He explained that that's not allowed for us as missionaries. They all gave a bunch of awkward laughs, and I thought I was going to pass out because he was so scared. Hahaha. Seriously so funny.

Also...... BYU won again! Glad to hear about that! Tanner Mangum is the guy! Hahah hope they keep it up!

Elder Ritchie