The Unity Within our Home

WOW!

Success isn't in the outcome, it's in the invitation...as I tell sisters who are scared to invite someone to do something that they might not want to do, like be baptized. It's a life principle. If we give something our all and lose, someone says no, or we get a door slammed in our face, Heavenly Father knows that we gave it our all and holds us in the same regard.

Every night Sister Warren and I try to tell each other something we learned from each other and a miracle we saw that day. This routine has gotten me in the habit of looking for the little positives and the miracles that really do happen all around us. I encourage you all to make a habit similar, ask yourself each night; "what miracle did I see today?" or "what is something positive I saw in someone else that I can point out to them?" I promise that if you do this, it will lead to personal happiness and satisfaction, as it has for me. Also, positivity is contagious and it can change the world. Likewise, negativity is poisonous and can plague the world. Let us each seek to raise our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ each day by thinking and speaking positively of one another!

Wyatt, a cute little 10-year-old we've been teaching for a month got baptized this weekend! He's never had much love in his home, until last month when he moved in with his grandparents. They have taken him to church and helped him see where true happiness comes. Saturday was his Birthday and we celebrated after the baptism with cake and singing. When we began to sing to him, his disposition changed. He got so still and I could tell he was just soaking it all in because this kind of love was new and unfamiliar, but his little heart craved it. Wyatt is a son of God and throughout our opportunities teaching him, we reiterated this over and over. He is going to go far in life and is already saying he wants to go on a mission. He said he's going to make a name tag now and start right way. We told him there needs to be a little more time and preparation, but by the time he's 18, he'll be ready :)

A posterity of positivity will come from each of the individuals I've been privileged to teach. I cannot wait to see, 5, 10 , 15 years down the line the impact they will have. I can't wait to tell you all the miracles and experiences I've had that have shown me God's hand in my life. I write you all a few stories in these emails, but so much more goes on that I couldn't begin to tell you over email. Thank goodness for journals! (another habit that I have acquired and am forever grateful for).

I write to you with love and gratitude for the stalwart examples you set forth. I also write to you with urgency. Heavenly Father needs us each to reach out with humble hearts to save those that are burdened with grief and pain. There is someone for each of us to take by the hand and lead back to our Father in Heaven. Pray to know who this is in your life. Seek the Spirits constant guidance. Don't hesitate to follow the smallest of promptings. "Press forward Saints, with steadfast faith in Christ with hope's bright flame alight in heart and mind."

Love,
Sister Fredrick


President,

This week was good for Sister Warren and I to strengthen our companionship unity. What kicked it off was the training on companionship unity we were asked to give in district meeting. A really great perspective to have towards our companion was taught to me by Sister Warren through revelation given to the Prophet Joseph Smith in D&C 61:3. The Lord instructs Joseph and the other saints as they are moving across the Missouri river that it is not needful that they "move swiftly upon the waters whilst the inhabitants on either side are perishing in unbelief." As companions in the service of our God, we must love and seek the salvation of one another. Sometimes we get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of exchanges, paperwork, meetings, and the needs of every other person and thing, that we forget the person who is constantly on our side, our companion.

I have been trying to focus on our relationship, the unity within our home. We all know that if happiness starts at home. Within its four walls we can nurture great faith and love. When this love resides, we can then bring it to our sisters, investigators, and members alike!

Luckily, Sister Warren and I have never had trouble teaching together, but as we focused on testifying of one another's words and praying for one another, I could most definitely see a difference in the effectiveness. I know that this principle of unity that has been brought to my attention this week will greatly effect future relationships I have. My parents, siblings, and spouse will all benefit from me learning this :)

I see the unity within you and Sister Brinkerhoff's relationship. I know it isn't all rainbows and butterflies, but communication exists and keeps your hearts "knit in unity." Thank you for being devoted to us, your missionaries, but more so thank you for being devoted to Sister Brinkerhoff and the Lord. Because of your devotion to them, I can feel Heavenly Father's love through you.

Love,
Sister Fredrick


p.s. can't wait until mission leadership council...and thanks for the green smoothies!
p.s.s. I would love to play tennis with you again before I go home, REVENGE! :)