Hey everyone! Another week went by here in Oaxaca and it was certainly one of a lot of fun and enjoyment. Let’s get right into the week!
Poderosos Malabares (Powerful Jugglers) So something about México is that almost everybody does anything to earn money through crazy ways. And one of those ways is going into the middle of a crosswalk during a red light and juggling (balls, machetes, bowling pins), using a yo-yo, or plenty of other “magic tricks” and skills. They do this, then before the light turns green, they ask for money from the cars waiting and watching them. Well, my companion knows how to juggle and doing tricks SUPER good, so we decided to be the “Poderosos Malabares” and try to find people by doing these tricks in the crosswalk. However, instead of asking for money, we gave out a little card with an inspired question and our phone number. During this, the other missionaries in our district went about contacting people around the intersection and in the street. It was a really fun activity and although we haven’t seen much come out of it, my confidence definitely grew a ton.
Embarcáis (You all embark) On Saturday was the first day of Embarcáis, a pre-MTC experience for the youth in the Stake. We traveled to the city Friday night, stayed over with the APs, then helped with the event all day Saturday. And it went really well! We had a pretty good turnout of youth and the timing worked out just perfect for the length of workshops and teaching them how to be missionaries. My companion and I were the “Staff” of the event because it took place in a different stake and Zone than where our area is located. However, it was still nice to see it all come together. Next Saturday and Sunday there will be two more days of this, and they should go great too.
The Work This week the work was really focused on those who have progressed super far, namely Davy and Santiago (Two 15-year-olds). We taught Davy the final lesson on Saturday, but it turns out that she won’t be getting baptized anytime soon due to her family not giving her permission. Both her and Santiago have this problem and it is really sad to see it happen because both of them have such a powerful testimony of the Gospel and are extremely ready and willing to take this covenant in their lives. But this might just be their challenge of patience and will give them a greater testimony than imaginable if they endure through it.
Transfers! Yesterday afternoon, we got the call from the APs and I’ll be leaving Valle de Etla! It is kind of a relief (especially for my legs), but I am a little sad that I’m leaving because over 4 1/2 months, I’ve really grown to love the area. It is a beautiful country out here and from what I’ve heard, Valle de Etla is one of the more tranquil areas here in Oaxaca. But it will be a good change, and I’m sure I’ll have good experiences in another area too.
Pictures! -District Photo -Another hour-long journey to Zautla -A missionary who returned in the Valle de Etla ward -Elder Licona as a Poderoso Malabarista
Take care all! -Elder Ord
