In All Things Give Thanks

Dear Family and Loved Ones,

It seems likely weekly events are a good way of keeping track of time.  One of our local Stake Presidents said that he measures time in garbage days (remember Mom always saying "it's a special day, it's garbage day!")  President Ahlstrom says he is always so surprised when it's garbage day because it comes around so quickly.  We always marvel that it is Monday AGAIN.  Happy Monday, another wonderful week in the mission has begun.

Ben and Mari are really liking seminary, they are doing well in their classes and getting to know some of the kids in Los Alamitos (ward we will be moving to the end of October).  They even went to a birthday party Friday night.  They don't complain but I know they miss having a social life.  Last night we enjoyed a fireside for the youth of the stake.  Jon Schmidt spoke and played the piano.  It was the first time I heard him in person, he was amazing!

We are noticing a trend with our missionaries.  Many of those who will be finishing up in the next few weeks are complaining of stomach aches, acid reflux, etc.  They are so anxious about adjusting to life outside the mission, we are going to start handing out Tums to our missionaries when they begin their last transfer.  So, if you know any missionaries who will soon complete their missions, be patient, let them know they are going to be alright and help them get back to "normal".

There are some very special people in our ward we are getting to know.  We live in a very humble ward and many have incredible challenges.  In the past few days we were able to visit two individuals whose lives are extremely challenging but who have such great "attitudes of gratitude", they are inspiring to everyone they associate with.

Brother Mosley is a member who isn't able to attend because of severe pain, caused by back and neck injuries.  He lives in a tiny studio apartment, about 10 X 10 feet. Brother Mosley is grateful for a home cooked meal, baseball games on the radio, his little dog, Muffin, ward members who check on him, and good days when he may get one small project done.

Elizabeth is an investigator, a beautiful woman, about forty years old and paralyzed from the waist down.  She loved dance and was a cheerleader at Wilson High.  Elizabeth lives in a care center and is surrounded by many elderly residents.  She visits the other residents to cheer them up.  When we go to see her she is rarely in her room but is usually on the patio or cafeteria "socializing".  Elizabeth appreciates flowers, treats, her new laptop and cell phone.  She is finding great peace in the gospel message and is an example of one who is "grateful in all things".

Sister Bonnie Parkin said, "Mercies and blessings come in different forms—sometimes as hard things. Yet the Lord said, “Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.”All things means just that: good things, difficult things—not just some things. He has commanded us to be grateful because He knows being grateful will make us happy . . . "

We have so many things to be grateful for;  serving with our with AMAZING missionaries, supportive local members, our beautiful Long Beach weather, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, living prophets (can't wait for conference) the list is endless.  Most of all we are grateful for each of you.  We feel your love and support. We hope you know we pray for each of you too.

Love Always,
The Long Beach Buberts