July 9, 2019

Hello everyone! This week completely flew by! I don't even know where the time is going anymore! We have still been doing a lot of bus contacting. Yesterday morning I had a thought that I would be meeting some Spanish speakers that day. Lo and behold, a Spanish class had just finished and so a whole bunch of people got on! I got into a conversation with two really nice people, one an older man and the other, a sweet girl my age. I told them about the Book of Mormon and they seemed really interested! I love how the Lord prepares the minds of those who are ready to share or receive the gospel. He really does have this whole thing under control. We also got to volunteer and Bishop's storehouse. I love doing that! It is so fun to help people in need. We spent a good part of the morning unloading food and organizing it all which is like my favorite thing to do! Haha I had a great birthday too! Thank you all so much for your sweet messages, they were all very kind and totally made my day! I can't believe I am 20... I still feel like I am like 14... Anyways, it was super sweet because we visited a district meeting and at the end, the Zone leaders came in with a cake. It was such a sweet gesture! Also, my darling companion made me the most lovely crepes for breakfast! I sure love her! We got to volunteer at a local soup kitchen which is my absolute favorite thing to do! It was the most perfect day! I am so happy here. I love the work and I love seeing the everyday miracles that the Lord puts in my path. I love the people I work with. They are truly dedicated and kind servants of the Lord. I know that this is his church on the earth. He will bring us eternal joy in the next life, I know. But he also brings us joy now. Does this not match the true nature of his perfect, fatherly love? I know that he is my father and that I am his work and his glory. I know that his son Jesus Christ is the means by which this whole plan works and I love him for that. Sorry, this email is so short! We've got a lot to do today! But I love you all dearly and hope that you have a wonderful week! Love, sister Bates