Five-day suit week - Written 10/08/12

Elder Hansen's big e-mail did not come through the week of 10/08/12.  We received this e-mail on 10/15/12.

It (the e-mail) didn't go through, probably because I tried to attach too many pictures to it. Here's what I wrote last week, minus the temple pics.

 

"I got to wear my suit five times this week: temple trip, interviews with the mission president, zone meeting, and two sessions of conference. I've got some pictures to send you guys if you like.

Conference was amazing! We all gasped at the announcement about missionary age being reduced, and I laughed at the prospect of possibly training someone 8 years younger than me, at the end of my mission. I really enjoyed spending time with my zone. There are some great elders here who have offered me some very good advice and support.

So the reason I need that support, in part anyways, is the news I got from the doctor this week. I have an inguinal hernia. It's non-retractable and nonconstricted. I will need surgery to correct it. I'm not in a whole lot of pain but I still have to live with the knowledge that there is something terribly wrong with me that needs to be fixed. I see the surgeon in a week or so and we will see how things go from there.

Conference has inspired me to try and be more like the exhortation of Omni: And now, my beloved brethren, I would that ye should come unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him, and continue in fasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved.

I think my favorite talks were Holland, Bednar, Shayne M. Bowen, Nelson, and Anderson. So much good stuff! Can't wait to get the Ensign and go over it all again.

I don't know how well you know me, but I'm deathly afraid of hospitals and needles, so any prayers you can offer in my behalf would be appreciated. I have faith that no matter what God's plan is, it will be for my good. I will pray for strength and peace during this trial, for I know that God doesn't give us trials to break us, but to strengthen us. God forsakes no one, and there is nothing we can't do together.

Another one of my favorite quotes from this conference: One sees clearly only with the heart. All things essential are invisible to the eyes.

I'm sure you all have your favorite parts of conference. Feel free to send them to me in your letters and emails. I love you all and miss you... but not a whole lot. My investigators are doing awesome, and I may end up leaving this area better than I found it! We have a lady on date for October 20 and another for November 3 (a lady from our apartment complex). I can see the faith and repentance changing their lives already!

God bless you all, and may you continue to grow in faith until I see you again."