Here at the MTC!

Hello all!

Today is my first p-day, although it feels like I have been here much longer than a week. Of course, that's typically how week-long camps feel as well, but I get to do this 9 times. It's kind of awesome, actually.

This week has, as can be expected, largely been one of orientation. There is so much to do at all hours of the day that it took a little while to get everything straightened out. However, I thrive in busy environments, so I've been enjoying myself. The amount I've learned in just a week has surprised me, to the extent that I pray in Spanish, sing in Spanish, and converse only in Spanish during meals. I still have a long way to go, but it's an encouraging start. The firesides are also wonderful. I'll be singing in the MTC chior for this next one.

My companion for my stay at the MTC is Elder Gishie, who is from Phoenix, Arizona and is going to serve in LA. I'm the only person in my District (of 4 Elders and 3 Hermanas) who is leaving the country, actually. He's been great so far, and the District is a very good one.

Gym is fun as well. Basketball is always enjoyable, and soccer has been immensely fun...even though we aren't allowed to use our heads or slide tackle. I've had some rather painful saves while playing goalie, though. During a long day of sitting in a chair studying the Word of God , it's nice to have a break and run around.

I had, however, forgotten how much I dislike the Utah cold.

Journal writing has been rather consistant, so far, as I'm sure Ashley will be happy to know. There has always been something to write, even if it isn't always related to my day.

Thank you to all of you for your advice, words of comfort, and encouragement. I can already tell that this is going to be the hardest thing I have done so far in life, but I know with a surety that I would not rather be anywhere else than serving my God. This is the most important work in the world, and the need for it is urgent. It is my responsibility and a blessing unto me to share the truth with others and help guide them to the answers they seek about where to find true, lasting happiness. I know this Gospel is the true, Restored Gospel of our Heavenly Father who loves us, His children. His love is infinite, as is his compassion. He wants to talk to each of you, and he wants to show you how you can be happy. He sent his Son for our sakes, and it is only through Him that we can return to the Father. That is a message worth sharing. I ask that you never forget that.

Know that I think of all of you fondly, and wish for your wellbeing. I will do my best to devote all of my energy and strength towards becoming the best servant I can be, for that is what I desire above all else.

This Gospel is true. Joseph Smith was a prophet. God's church is on the earth today, and it receives his direct guidance through a prophet even today. A loving God awaits our return. His Son loves us enough to have suffered all for our sake, and all we have to do is listen to what He wants to tell us.

I know and say these things in the name of my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Amen.

MTC Address

Tanner Gary Lund
MTC Mailbox # 89
MEX-GUA 1220
2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604-1793

Welcome

Herein will be posted Tanner's weekly e-mails home, once he starts his mission. He enters the MTC (Missionary Training Center) and begins his two month stay there on the 21st at 1:00 PM.