Phone Call: Monday, May 16, 2022

This week with Elder Garcia wasn't a very long call but part of it falls on me as I was running around a bit this morning trying to help get Brooklyn out the door for school and then I had a few things on my schedule that were happening earlier than later. That didn't stop us from being able to touch basis and for him to recap his week for me though. I love being able to get even just a quick call and being able to see and hear him. 

- Elder Garcia is still on track for his Zone wide baptism date of this Saturday the 21st. Right now they have 10 total ami's that they are working with and had planned to have all of them there but 1 is not legally married and hasn't paid the dowry while 3 others just aren't 100% ready and would like a little more time with the missionaries. That leaves six (6)! That is still such a big number and Elder Garcia is really looking forward to that.

- Elder Garcia had interviews with President Proudfoot this last week. He learned a lot about the dowry's and how marriage works in Africa. He learned that each marriage is different and that there isn't a set cost of this. It is a very different approach and very cultural indeed.

- Elder Garcia says that it has been interesting for him to realize how little he cares about having a phone. They have one in their companionship and neither of the missionaries care too much about being the one to carry it. I find this interesting and wonder what it will be like when he comes home. Will be fun to watch.

- President Proudfoot has issued a challenge to the missionaries to remind themselves of the saying "Life is Beautiful" when things just don't seem to be going their way. Elder Garcia said it in French but in English this is what it translates to. Basically it is a quick reminder when things aren't working out how they had hoped that you need to find the good in things and not let the negative dictate how the day will go. Elder Garcia talked about a devotional talk that Sister Garcia shared with him as well. He says it is something like "Live it Right" and that it falls in line with finding the positive in all things. I loved this and I think it is a good reminder for all of us. Life is too short to get hung up on the ugly parts of it. We need to flip the way we look and find the blessings, even if they are the smallest of small.

- There is a busy week ahead for Elder Garcia this week. They have District Counsel tomorrow, baptismal interviews that will need to take place of the Zone wide service on Saturday, he has some exchanges, his planning, and then the baptisms. I imagine that Saturday will be a very busy day and one of just sheer joy for many.

- I asked Elder Garcia about the branch members and how they are with new converts. He lights up and says that they are just wonderful! They embrace them, love them, help them along the way, and encourage them in their growth in the Gospel. What a lucky bunch of people right? 

Elder Garcia is sneaking in on 11 months already on this mission of his and I cannot believe it! He continues to find his groove and I believe his testimony is growing with each new day. He seems happy and appears to be enjoying his time in Africa and working with those around him. I am grateful for his willingness to allow me along on this experience with him.

I love you to the moon and back,
Mom