Companionship

Dear President,

I love my companions! Let me tell you why. Well Sister Ballantyne is so much fun. She is always happy, even when she is sad, she is happy. How is that possible? When she speaks she exudes the spirit. She is very much willing to work hard to do what is right. She also is very aware and recognize when there are problems. For instance, she noticed that Sister Hanson was getting a cough and kept asking her how she was feeling, and you could see she really cared and wanted to help. She is very sweet and loving.

Sister Hanson is very much a leader, however, she does it in such a gentle way. She really cares about everyone and wants to be her absolute best self and truly knows that that is only possible with the Lords help. She too notices subtleties. I was feeling a little like I wasn't needed in the companionship the other day, and so Sister Hanson just came and sat beside me and really talked to me about all that I was feeling. I really needed that and am so glad I am developing friendships here that will last forever.

I don't know if Sister Ballantyne told you but while she was in the MTC she had a cousin that committed suicide. It has been quite rough, especially since she said one of her biggest fears is her being away from home and something bad happening and she not being able to get back to help. She says though that she is learning to trust in the Lord and lean on him for help... I too had a few cousins that committed suicide so I know how hard that can be. Today was the funeral for Edna Mills and we were asked if we would attend to greet people and provide some support, so with approval we did. During the middle of the service I recognized that Sister Ballantyne was in tears. I was able to put my arm around her as she cried. I think sometimes you do just need to cry. I think it was a really good thing for her that we were able to go to the service because it was filled with hope and recognition that the Lord is in control and that He truly does have a plan.

On Saturday during our companionship study we were able to role play teaching one of our investigators, Laura. I was able to play Laura as the other sisters taught the restoration. Sister Hanson recited in Josephs own words what happened. As she did she looked me in the eye and didn't brake the gaze once. It was so intense. I really felt what the investigator should feel. I felt the spirit the strongest I have ever felt it as they shared the experience in the sacred grove. It was such an incredible experience for me. I felt like they were looking into my soul. I it was strange because I somewhat felt vulnerable, but in a good way. Like there was no hiding anything. My cards were all layed our and they could see absolutely who I was. Later that day we were able to actually teach Laura this. It went fairly well, but I think that was because Laura is who she is. She asks really good questions and is very sincere. I am so grateful for experiences like this on my mission.

Our stake president wants us to have a white Christmas this year and the other night Sister Hanson was praying for it. As she did, I envisioned a parent and their child holding hands and in white. Things like that don't always happen for me but I feel that it was a gift from God to confirm to us that it will happen. Sister Ballantyne and Sister Hanson also shared that during the prayer they felt it would happen. We are very excited but I am also humbled because I know that we must be striving to find these people and help them the best we can. I know that I on our own we will not be able to accomplish this, however with God we can do all things.

With it being thanksgiving I will write just a few things I am thankful for. I am grateful for my ancestors that joined the church here in England and decided to come across the plains, sacrificing so much for us to have a good life. I am grateful I was raised by good parents. I am absolutely grateful for the experiences I have had in my life that have prepared me for this part of my life. I love my mission so much and am over-joyed that I get to be here at this time. I am grateful for the companions I have had and the leaders that have taught us so much. I am grateful for so much that I could go on and on and on but just know that my body is filled with a thankful heart.

I love you.

Love Alyssa Longmore