from 16 Dec 3013

from December 16, 2013 9:18 AM
Subject: Re: package sent a couple of weeks ago....hopefully get before Christmas!

Hey Mom!
I'll ask the secretarys if your package has gotten here yet. Probably I'll get it this week. I'll let you know.

Tomorrow is the transfer and I'll be staying here! I'll get my new companion tomorrow morning. He is from Argentina and his name is Elder Miño. I'm excited to work with him.

This Friday night will be our Ward Christmas Party. Last year in Irajá we had a big party also and the Bishopric gave a message about the Christmas story and one of the members came dressed up like Santa. Just like at home. I assume that it'll be the same thing here also but I'll let you know. I'll take a bunch of pics. I have several pics of the Christmas party last year also.

Thats great to hear about the baptism in Connersville. We had a baptism on Saturday for a man named Gaston. Hes awesome and it was great to teach and help him. Now we're gonna work with his family. We should have another baptism this Saturday for a woman who has tons of family that are members of the church. Her children and sister and nephew. Its gonna be great!

I saw the Christmas devotional last night and I loved it. I wrote down my thoughts and feelings when I was watching it but I think that the part that touched me the most was when Elder Nelson was talking and it had a video clip of the children that sang, "Im trying to be like Jesus". Its amazing how music, but in particular, the primary hymns warm your heart and invite the Spirit. I pondered on those poetic lyrics and thought of my own deep desire to be like Jesus. I love Him so much and am thankful for His perfect example. Read the lyrics,

I'm trying to be like Jesus;
I'm following in his ways.
I'm trying to love as he did, in all that I do and say.
At times I am tempted to make a wrong choice,
But I try to listen as the still small voice whispers,

"Love one another as Jesus loves you.
Try to show kindness in all that you do.
Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought,
For these are the things Jesus taught."

If there exists one thing that can truly change the world and the hardened hearts of men, it is through the teachings of this childrens hymn. I have sang this song hundreds of times but was moved as the Spirit whispered to me to "show kindness" and "be gentle and loving in deed and in thought". What a wonderful message. Remember to be kind and gentle and loving in what you do and say and think. Be compassionate and merciful and forgiving just like the Savior is with us. I know that this will bring inner peace and true happiness.

I hope your last week of school before break goes well. Next Monday in my email I will tell you when I'll be able to talk to you. It'll probably be in the afternoon after lunch. It'll be about 20 minutes and thats really short but I'll also get to see you in about 4 and a half months. Oh how the time flies fastly. I love you so much and cant wait to hear from you soon!

Jared