November 3, 2014

So, this area is WAY different from my last one. I have a lot of work to do here. I kinda get a feeling that the effect of my work might not be felt until after I leave.... we'll see though! I'm hopeful. Tomorrow we get to hear from a Seventy. Definitely looking forward to that. This zone is going to require some innovation when it comes to missionary work. It'll be fun.

The Lord is sustaining me. He's helping me be patient because some of these changes are going to take a long time to come about. He's giving me hope and vision for the future.  I had a weird feeling this morning as I put on my tie and I thought "I think I'm the only Elder Norton now in the family." Interesting. 

I love you so much! Your emails always make me smile and make the day so much better. Thanks!

Love,

Elder Matt

October 27,2014

Dear family!

 I'm getting transferred to Anthem stake in Henderson. It's known to be incredibly wealthy. Mansions and stuff. It's going to be a huge change, since here you can find investigators mainly through just talking to people on the streets, and there there's almost no one outside. It will be different, but I'm very excited. We have a general authority, Elder Foster, coming next week that we're pretty excited about. Halloween activity should be fun. The weather is beautiful. Life is good! Looking back on the last 6 months here, I feel like I've changed more in these last few months than I have in any other period of my life of the same time. I've changed a lot! Mainly in my understanding of revelation and decision making. I have a strong testimony of the Church now. The organization of the Church, I mean. I new it was true before, but now I have a real testimony of the inner workings of the church, the importance of meetings, the revelation that leaders receive, and how activity in the church truly brings happiness. I feel like church meetings are going to be a big part of the rest of my life, and I'm okay with that! I'm excited for all the revelation we will receive. I have a real witness about the Book of Mormon, the Prophet Joseph, and even about the Sabbath Day! It's been a great adventure here. I'll definitely miss the friends I've made here, but I know from the Lord that my new assignment is where I need to be. It's going to be much harder than anything I've ever done though, so I'm going to need your faith and prayers. I feel the effect of your love, though! You guys sustain me through my hardest times. I love you all so much. 

I forgot my camera today, sorry!! I'll send you pictures of the new area and new companion. I love you so much!!!!

Matt