Hello again!

Happy Halloween! I hope you all enjoy the festivities. I am sure that it will be a good week for everyone. As missionaries, Halloween means that we spend the evening in the flat (starting at 5 pm). We got to make sure everyone stays safe!

It has been a wonderful week as usual. There is always a lot to be learned and new experiences to be had. We had zone conference this Friday, and it was brilliant as usual. One of the seventy, Elder Kearon, visited and spoke to us. I loved how he emphasized being authentic. He talked about how we are people, not robots. We need to make sure that we still act that way. It is something that needed to be heard, and I feel I have truly been able to apply that into my work. For example, he talked about how it was strange for us to ask the first question of "do you believe in God?" Rather, we should ask "how are you?" Or "those bags look heavy, do you need some help?" We are people, so be real! Often times, we become so focused on our missionary goals and sharing the gospel, we miss out on being real. This reminder was perfect and I have been more aware of when I am just being that "robot missionary" rather than good old Becca.

Let me tell you about a funny conversation I had this week. Sister Loh and I approached two young men on the street. They were not interested but they were engaging in conversation with us. We were definitely being real--laughing and discussing the gospel. A few minutes into the conversation I realized I hadn't introduced myself, so I said, "Oh sorry I forgot to introduce myself, my name is Sister Jack. What is your name?" He responded, "Brother Jack. Oh wait, but I can't be a brother." It almost seemed as if he was mocking us. As a result, we were able to explain to him that we were all children of God, so yes in fact he is a brother. However, I was still unsure if he was mocking me with his name being Jack or not, so I asked, "Is your name Jack?" He responded, "Yes, it is Jack." It is always fun having a first name for a last name. Always keeps you on your toes and reminds you to never judge a book by its cover!

That is all for now. Have a great week!

Love, Becca

p.s. This is a picture of my companionship and another set of sisters before conference. They came and stayed the night because they lived so far away from where the training was being held!