8/6/18 - Emma Letter to Family

The roof looks great! I'm glad all is well and you're all enjoying the rest of your summer. I love that Cob has written me more than kade. Whoot! haha!

Mom, keep persistant with that invite! Missionary work is quazi impossível sem membros. PERSISTANCE IS KEY! Sister A. Riberio taught me persistance, not instance, but if we're not persistant it's too easy for them to say no and lose out on the blessings. I'm proud of you. Can't wait to hear all about it!

We had Churrasco this week at a members house. Brasillian BBQ and Dad, it was ALMOST as good as your meat. Everyone says I eat 'bem pouco" so they pile me plate again and again even when I say I can't take it. I had meat sweats the rest of the day. It was Worth it, but I dont understand how everyone is this country isnt severly obeese. They all eat so much and its mostly rice, beans butter and meat. SOS! I don't like feeling fat.

Sister A. Riberio was hinting at how wonderful my straightner is. I'm thinking of giving it to her becasue here they're not nearly as good. Are they expensive in the US? Is it going to be hard for me to replace? Thoughts?

Thanks for the advice and encouragement.

To be 100% honset, this week has been tough. I'm thankful for my comp because without her I probably would've concidered calling President saying I want out. I'm trying to be as up beat and positive as I can, but geeze, I just can't figure it out. I know that mission is supposed to bring joy but I've been stuck in this gloom for 2 weeks and I can't figure out what's up. It's the same thing everyday. I'm tired of this routine. I feel like I'm spinning wheels getting no where.  I'm praying to see the Lord's hand in my day, I know it's there, sometimes I just have trouble seeing it. I'm trying to focus on other people, I've found that's when I'm happiest, I want to forget myself and go to work. I'm obedient, I work hard. I just can't shake it. I'm hoping as I continue to do what I know is right I'll rediscover why I wanted to serve in the first place and get back to feeling like myself. So that's that. I slept for most of my P day today, I'm hoping that helps. I don't know. If you have suggestions send them my way. This transfer I want to work on knowing my Savior better by studying his life in the scriptures, The Living Christ and Jesus the Christ. I've already seen an improvement  in my relationship with Him. I think this will help too. Thank you for telling me about the blessings you've seen from my service. That makes it easier.

I love you all and pray for you every day! Keep on keeping on!

Sister BBQ

Sweet Emma!

I am sure what you are feeling is very normal. I have heard many missionaries say that they get this way a few times in their mission. They say the first one usually hits around four months. I would say you are very normal. It’s no fun to be down, but just be patient. Things WILL get better! I love you so much! Mom