Giant Landslide

Well, we`ve been having an eventful week. I stayed, and I got a new companion! His name is Elder Lopez, and he`s from Chile. He`s a super awesome missionary from what I`ve seen so far of him. This is his second to last transfer, so I think he has a lot to teach me. I hope to learn a lot from him! The interesting part was that shortly before the transfers there was a giant landslide which blocked completely any migration between Huanuco and Tingo. In order for my comp. to leave and for Elder Lopez to come, they had to climb over it. There are men who help you with your luggage, at least, and charge 3 soles a trip. The landslide was about a neighborhood block long, containing boulders the size of our house. Even as we were crossing, more rocks began to fall. At one point, we were making our way across when suddenly everyone started running and screaming that a giant rock was going to fall, so we ran as well, trying to help some children across, as well. We got to the other side safely. I wish I had pictures, but for some reason it didn`t occur to me to take pictures. I do, however have this picture of us waiting in line to go cross the landslide. They sent us in a group of more than a hundred.

Because of the landslide, the prices of almost everything have gone up. Especially fruits, vegetables, and gas. Also, we ran out of money. We had no money to pay to go to the landslide and come back all those times nor to get around in our area, so I had to take out money from the bank. The leaders said they`ll reimburse all of it, but that`s the reason for the withdrawals.

We stood there waiting more than two hours, but it`s okay because I bought chifles! Chifllleeeeesssss! Three times! NO REGRETS!!! Whoooo!!

The good news is that we had a wonderful baptism this week. An investigator got baptized on Saturday! Whooooo! Also, our new pentionista came to church with us, which is an achievement because she`s not a member! She loved it, and will now be coming with us every Sunday. I`ll send pictures with their family next week. They`re super awesome.

I`ve been listening lately to many speakers. One of my favorites I heard this week was by Arthur C. Brooks called Why Giving Matters. He talks about how sacrificing to give even though we may not have much actually helps us in the end to be happy and prosper. Listening to talks has become a hobby of mine. I think it helps me learn to be a better teacher, as well. I always write down the examples I like and the scriptures they use. I`m suuuuuppperrr excited for General Conference this time around because I feel like I`ll have a better appreciation now for their inspired words. I`ll be letting you know what most calls my attention in the conference, and I hope you will let me know as well!

I love you all very very much, and hope you know that I pray constantly for you and hope you feel as happy as I do, and even more!
Much love,
Elder Alexander