OCTOBER 7, 2019 - PERSONAL NOTE TO DAD AND MOM

 PERSONAL NOTE TO DAD AND MOM

October 7, 2019

So part of the reason that I've been a more lax in my emails lately is because I haven't felt like there's a lot that I can write about that's happening in our weeks right now. Things haven't been slow in my area because of bad luck or a lack of good people to be found, it's just been that we haven't been out and about. 

My companion, and I love him to death, is nearing the end of his mission: a detail that he reminds me of consistently. Missionary work is hard for him, because talking with people is hard for him. It's scary, and he doesn't feel like he would be able to do what he would need to. And for the people that we can work with, the effort just isn't there because he just feels so drained after lessons with them and he feels like they won't progress, especially if we try to work harder on them. And on top of that, he is just lacking in any desire to work or talk or plan or teach. So, do anything that missionaries do. Some days are better than other, but it has been ups and downs these past couple months. 

I'm doing ok. I have faith in Christ, and He helps me out personally. But it is frustrating to have this situation be here, especially when what I want to do is work even harder during the last moments of my mission. I'm trying to help and love my companion to the best of my ability, and that's what my Mission President has advised thus far. Just try to help him finish his mission strong. 

So because we just haven't been doing too much, even though I've wanted to, I haven't felt like there's been anything to share about in an email.  That's a little bit of an excuse, but that's been a big reason. If everyone's prayers can just be directed more to my companion and I being able to figure out how to move forward, that would help a lot. 

I am safe, I am still having fun times and trying to stay happy and do what's right, but I'm having a hard time figuring how much to help out. I'm praying and trying to seek revelation. But what would you do, Dad? Are there any experiences or impressions that might help me figure this out? I just can't figure out what I can do to help someone in the middle of a deliberate exercising of their agency.

I haven't really had a good opportunity to share about that with you and Mom. Sorry about ommitting that. There just hasn't been a great opportunity to share that in calls or messenger chats with my companion in the room. 

I love you, Dad! Keep us in your prayers, and if there's any advice you have, I'd love to hear!

Elder (Benjamin) Richardson

P.S. I'll make sure to give you a call next week!