We decided to be bums for P-day so I am not doing anything at the moment, but I felt as though I should write to you all. I have no idea what to say but here it goes.
I love and miss you all. It seems the longer I'm away, the closer we get too. I am so grateful for all of you guy's support and prayers. They truly have helped me.
Tyler, I am so proud of you! You choosing to serve a mission will be one of the best decisions you'll ever make in your life. Now you might say it was an easy choice, but I can promise you, your faithfulness will be tested while you're in the field. Tyler, always "choose the right" way, rather than choosing to go the easier route. You're going to have some tough times, but never ever give up hope! Be positive! From personal experience, prayer has helped me to fortify my faith and hope for the best in times of stress. You're gonna do great. There isn't a whole bunch for me to give you advice on, your mission will be completely different. I'll write again before you head out!
So I was just thinking, it's been 14 months now! Holy cow time flies so much! I've been reading the conference talks in the Ensign, Elder Eyring's talk about service. Now I am in an area where we provide much service. I was reflecting more about all the service back home in helping me prepare for a mission. Dad, you're probably the most service able man I know. Thank you for your example, dedication and hard work in helping others in times of need. I can honestly say that my fondest memories where when we had helped someone in need, providing service for others. So thank you! I sure will do the same with my kids!
So being out here in the boonies is quite fun! I've never done so much driving before in my life! We drive a brand new Chevy Colorado. We have to do a bit of offroading. Missionary work is really fun out here! LOL. Speaking of missionary work, Mom I know that you will be talking about that later this week, might I add a few words and my testimony to that lesson you'll be preparing?
Missionary work is perhaps one of the greatest things a person can do. It is only through missionary work that all of God's children can receive the eternal blessings that are in store for us all. It is only because of missionary work that my own family is sealed for time and all eternity. Many of us, including myself, have friends who are not of the faith. It is our sacred duty to "lift our voices as a sound of a trump" and "preach the gospel to every nation, kindred, tongue, person." As you do missionary work, the Lord has promised that "great shall be your joy". Invite friends to activities and to church. "Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God." If your loved ones chose not to heed the invite then it is your obligation to "join in fasting and mighty prayer in behalf of the welfare of the souls who knew not God." A true friend would "lay down his life for his friends." Do you love your friends enough to do all you can to help them receive the fullness of the everlasting gospel? I know that this is his work and glory. God desires all of His children to return to live with Him. That won't happen unless we do all we can to help them accept this message. As an ordained minister of the gospel, and a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ, I bear my testimony that this is the Lord's work, and we are on His errand, and it is one of the most important things we can do in life today. I know that this gospel is true, and that God lives. I love and miss you all, it's my humble prayer that we can all become even more missionary minded! God be with you until we meet again! In the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
Sincerely,
Elder Harris
PS - Well that's my letter to the youth! I hope it helps! Sorry if it seems random too, I just wrote whatever came to me. I love you guys! You're the best, have an awesome week!
Corey
(Corey back in March 1999 on his baptism day with his Dad.)
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