Merry Christmas!!

Dawid is doing so well. This week Elder Platter had to say his goodbyes and then two days later it was an introduction for Elder Jackson. Dawid is seriously thinking about how a mission fits into his plans. When we met with him he prayed for the members in the branch, he is now officially a part of things. He is going to Italy for Christmas but when we comes back he will receive the Aaronic priesthood. He is ready to have some responsibility and part in the branch, it is incredible to to see. He has become a good friend as well, just yesterday we were having a pretty deep conversation about the future. I'm grateful for my time in Gdańsk.

This past week was a lot of fun! I went to Warsaw and spent the night with Elder Garrett and a few other trainers. It was a ton of fun to be back in Warsaw - being there for one night and at Christmas almost felt like a little vacation. There was a lot of excitment and energy on Wednesday as we had the trainer meeting and then went to the mission home and were paired up. I love pointing at the map announcing where we will be serving and then have President Edgren call one of the new missionaries. Elder Jackson is here with me now. He is fresh out of high school (so like me a year ago) and is excited to be in Poland. He is out going and willing to talk with people, he is a lot of fun and I love introducing him to all of the new joys of being a Poland Warsaw missionary.

We have a new district, Sister Grgich and Sister Wood stayed but Sister Bąk came up to make a tripanionship. It has been a lot of fun, enjoying the Christmas market and old town in Christmas decor. Today we are in Toruń a city near Bydgoszcz and will spend the night with missionaries caroling. Then tomorrow we will travel to Poznań for a Christmas zone conference. It is beautiful and so much fun!

I am excited to talk with my family on Thursday! Remember not to be stressed but enjoy this time with family and friends.

Wesołych Świąt! Merry Christmas :)

http://www.mormon.org/pol/bozenarodzenie

( it is also in English of course - so good, watch it! polecam ciepło :)

Starszy Kimball


LAST WEEK'S LETTER: Dawid's Baptism and the importance of apologizing and forgiving

Well my weeks as a missionary are always full of exciting events such as a movie night after English class (airing the restoration movie complete with popcorn and drinks) or attending an Australian presentation Sister Grgich did at a local library. There are unique opportunities and experiences, I will focus on the highlights:

First things first Dawid's baptism and confirmation. Saturday morning we wake up and get ready. We met at the Dwór Prawdzica, a Renaissance themed hotel, by the sea for the baptismal service and ordinance (meaning the meeting as well as the baptism itself). Most of the branch was present, President and Sister Edgren drove up, one of the sisters investigators, and then Dawid and his friends Arek and Kuba (who we have met a couple of times). As I took Dawid to get changed into white he was telling me how nervous he was feeling but excited too because he knew he was starting his journey as a disciple of Christ. I was thankful to be there to help support and encourage him before the meeting began. Things ran promptly and smoothly. I gave a brief talk about baptism and Elder Platter shared a short talk about the Holy Ghost. The pool was neck height so when President Kempa (the branch president) baptized it wasn't difficult for Dawid to be fully immersed. He walked out and I handed him his towel, he took me aside and said that he felt something when he was in the water. After they changed and returned to the hall we met in Dawid shared his testimony. He relayed his experience when a priest once mentioned that we are all in search of the path to Christ. Dawid knew that was true, that he was searching and now that he has found it. He understands that this is the first step, not the last. He has had trials, temptation, and adversity along the way but he has deepened faith in Christ, overcame smoking and repented of past sins, was baptized and then confirmed. In church yesterday during the confirmation blessing Dawid was promised that by his example he would help others come unto Christ. He is an incredible example to me and to us all. It's always a reminder to me how quick and simple baptisms are -especially the time in the water. It is a beginning, the start of service, self-improvement, and becoming like Christ. It was a blessed experience.

My birthday was another highlight. We spent the afternoon going to lunch with the Sisters and then planning for the baptism. In the evening I was surprised by Dawid and Elder Platter with a party at Dawid's (consisting of the three of us). Dawid made his "famous spaghetti" and they got me a Gdańsk souvenir I've been wanting. It was a such fun day, I was surrounded by thoughtful friends. Many messages and notes made my day all the better.

Transfer calls were this past Saturday, unlike usual we got them live, in person at the baptism. I will be staying here in Gdańsk training for a second time. I felt it coming, that being said my focus has been so involved in the baptism that I haven't thought about the upcoming transfer yet. The past couple of days it's been sinking in and I am trying to gear myself up. I get to welcome another missionary to Poland: introduce them to the food, the people, the work. The beginning of my mission seems an eternity ago, I have gone through so much and so many changes. I will be at the same point in my mission that Elder Godwin was when he trained me. Pretty fun. 

My last thought for now... This last weekend was incredible but the week leading up to it was one of the hardest of my mission. To put it simply there was drama and I assert that contention is one of the most toxic influences in the world. The anxiety and stress I had, the physical discomfort so tangible - I don't want it in my life. I am still working on softening my heart to forgive but there was a miracle amongst it all. On Sunday morning I approached the person that we had experienced difficulty with. It was just the two of us and I asked if I could say something. I simply said that I wanted to apologize. I didn't try to explain every little misunderstanding. It can be hard, so hard - pride gets in the way and I didn't want to admit I had something to be sorry for (because of course from each of our views we were the victim - as it always is) but my heart was blessed with sincerity as I spoke. I simply shared the feelings and lack of peace that had filled me week and how I was sorry for my part in it. I didn't lie or say what I thought the other person wanted, I spoke from my heart. The immediate peace and Spirit that I had lacked but hoped for in the past week flooded over me. Apologizing is so important, it is freeing - as I apologized I began to forgive as well. At times when thoughts enter my head my heart hardens and its beat quickens with anger but when we are sincere and apologize Heavenly Father comes in and fills our heart with the love we lack. If we want to forgive others, show them love - just as we can't hide from Heavenly Father in sin he knows our hearts in when we are found in innocence even when others don't see it. By promptings from the Holy Ghost we can know what to do and where we stand before our Father in Heaven. 

Enjoy the Christmas season :) Thanks to Christ light and peace are possible in our life in overcoming darkness and confusion.

Wesołych Świąt,

Starszy Kimball

Change it!

Gdańsk is covered with Christmas - lights everywhere and Jarmark (the Christmas markets) are finally up! The district is as tight as ever, we continue to have adventurous P-day excursions and unity in the work. 

I don't have a bunch of time this week and am not in the most write-a-letter mood so here are my condensed thoughts:

Dawid has had some pretty incredible experiences. This past week he faced trials: be it doubt, self-doubt, ridicule from others, confusion etc. He described it as feeling everything at once. There was a darkness, a confusion over him and it was visible. He sent a text on Friday sharing his feelings of feeling unprepared. It was a big surprise but then after the events of the weekend Heavenly Father's hand in it all is clear. We were able to address his issues and then when he asked if there was some magical way he could get help to quit smoking (he repeated the question clarifying that he didn't want dark magic but wished that there was a "light" magic). We then explained the priesthood as God's power and he asked for a blessing, afterward he had a smile on his face. At the end of the meeting another visible metamorphosis had taken place. He enjoyed culture night with us and was able to relax Saturday night.

He was running late to church on Sunday, we were worried it but then it had turned out that he forgot his wallet and didn't notice until he was on the tram. He seemed to get some answers at church and received a lot of support. Our members have welcomed him in. Waldek, a member of over twenty years (so has seen the growth and dwindling of the church in Gdańsk), called Sunday afternoon and shared how excited he was for Dawid and told us his desire to take Dawid under his wing and be a spiritual mentor and support in this difficult new life. Waldek is not the exception. At the end of all the Sunday meetings he said that his mind felt clear. The difference in my life from the influence of the Adversary and of the Holy Ghost is identical. My favorite word to use when I describe how I recognize the presence of the Spirit is clarity. He found peace and surety and is more confident thanks to his experiences. I'm grateful for our opportunities in overcoming struggles to grow. 

I've been thinking about what I want to change this next year. President Edgren's invitation to sacrifice has been on my mind a lot recently. I want to sacrifice having a bad attitude. There are parts of missionary work that stress me out or I plainly don't care for. Similarly, in life there are aspects we dread or worry about it. This is normal and positive stress pushes us to develop but I'm ready to cut out the unneeded anxiety. Rather than avoid or let problems fester in my mind I want to address them full on and change them. Why do we allow ourselves to have these yearly, monthly, or even weekly and daily dreads? I am over it. Even when things seem out of my control I want to adapt to the situation. The need for our positivity, love, and service is infinite and we can't afford to be caught up with things that don't really do not matter but have a knack for weighing us down. We can't help others if we don't first take care of ourselves and when we are in a situation to look beyond ourselves we will see the need and be guided in caring, thoughtful service as we seek the loving direction from our Father in Heaven.

Enjoy the Christmas season! Share your belief in Christ and if you don't have one then listen to somebody who does. Share your love with those around you.

Kocham swojego Zbawiciela i wiem że doskonale nas rozumie i też nas kocha. Miłego tygodnia!

Starszy Kimball

Never pass up an opportunity to do good

A week of miracles:

On Wednesday evening we had a lesson with Gosia and Martyn (a young couple in the branch) after our English class. As we made our way over we caught a tram that said it went to the right stop but we discovered that it went around the city to get to it so we got off at another stop to catch another one. We looked at the schedule and saw that we needed to catch a 2 then saw one pull up close but stop. A moment later a tram pulls up and we hop on. As we are riding I'm noticing that we didn't reach certain stops that I thought we would but because we were going a new way I didn't think much of it. Then all of a sudden it hit me that we were not where we needed to be so we get off at the next stop and see that we had boarded a 3 instead. As I made my comment before getting off the tram Elder Platter said there must have been a reason, I was then surprised by how quickly the need for our detour manifested itself. We find our bearings and realize we are in a settlement near the coast and see one guy on the platform we were on. I walked over to him asking the best way to get to our destination and as he begins to reply he stops and asks "Mormon?" I responded that we indeed were and he continued that he just moved to the area from Ukraine. He'd been meeting with missionaries to learn English and was hoping to get in contact with missionaries here - it must have been a sincere desire because Heavenly Father led us 40 minutes out of our way to find him. We exchanged information and I hope to see him this Wednesday. Meeting Sergiej brought the spirit into our evening and was a confirmation of Heavenly Father's hand in the work. There was then a kind babcia placed in our path to guide us to the Chabros family's home, Heavenly Father is intricate and caring in His purposes. 

One morning this week I wasn't feeling on my game and I noticed that it was because my heart had become a little hardened. I had some anger and frustration with my companion as well as with the branch president here because of some miscommunication and other matters. I've been working on not giving in to feelings of anger or annoyance but as we all can attest it isn't easy. During personal study I slipped into the bedroom in a down and some-what delicate state to pray for strength to be more loving. What I felt is hard to describe. Immediately I was reminded of Heavenly Father's love for me as well as Christ's. I thought of how the Atonement of Christ has led me to receive forgiveness and see growth in myself. As love was poured into my heart I began to feel it soften and my perspective of the whole situation flipped around. Simply, my heart was filled with love and it didn't matter what had been said or been done because my heart had been softened, it had been changed. This is one of the most powerful experiences I have had, it's a testimony to me that the Christ is the Savior. He understands perfectly what we need and His love allows us to be better and love others. Love truly is a gift. Dawid explained how we can know if this is all true yesterday when talking to a guy that comes to church often but doesn't believe it's true with the words, "can't you feel it in your heart?"

Dawid is committed to being baptized the 13th of December, he caught a train at 6:00 am yesterday from his grandparents place to make it to church here in Gdańsk. He is changing his life, recently quitted smoking, and is ready to accept the new lifestyle we are teaching him. The gospel is logical to him but I am convinced that the reason it's so easy for him to adjust is because of what he feels in his heart.

The branch here has had trouble feeling love amongst themselves. On Sunday I taught the combined hour of church. I based the lesson off of President Monson's talk "Love - the Essence of the Gospel. It seemed to intrigue them, great comments were shared, and unlike when I gave my first talk in sacrament meeting, everyone seemed engaged. It's a topic on everybody's mind right now. We had a branch dinner and Christmas tree decorating activity on Saturday and then church yesterday, the atmosphere is feeling better than ever before. Something that many members see a need of is an example to inspire the branch, the sad thing is that they don't understand that they can be that shining example. We need to be the example of love and goodness to those around us. Having good desires and hopes is positive but actually accomplishing good brings a change. As Camilla Eyring (my great grandma) said, "Never pass up an opportunity to do good." I highly recommend that anyone interested in being more loving read/ watch the talk: https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2014/04/love-the-essence-of-the-gospel?lang=eng&media=video#watch=video

Heavenly Father is a God of miracles and love.

Here I end wishing my love, 

Starszy Kimball

Astonishing

I am flying right now, what a week! 

Dawid is officially the most incredible person I've met and so much happened with him this week! 

On Thursday we met with him and Martyn, a young, newleywed in the branch, accompanied us. We talked about receiving answers from God so explained personal revelation. He had read from the Book of Mormon and prayed every day. In the lesson we helped him realize that he had received an answer and he admitted that he believes the Book of Mormon and church are true. He said that we wants to join so we invited him to be baptized on December 13th and he agreed! 

We then saw him on Sunday at church, he was there in his white shirt. Later that day he talked about the good atmosphere he felt. After church we had a lesson with Waldek, a member for 20 years. He shared some of his story and some powerful personal expeience and life lessons. We talked about the word of wisdom again and Dawid committed to live it. We talked about self integrity, doing things because we want to and because we feel personally committed to ourselves and to Heavenly Father. We taught about the power in making a decision and sticking to it, relying on Christ for help and strength. 

Yesterday it was also Dawid's birthday and he invited us over to his place to celebrate - we were a little unsure because we didn't want to enter a college party but we stopped by and there was a small, calm group. We had cake and talked, it was a lot of fun. Dawid was telling his friends about him joining the church and how he doesn't drink anymore. It was a cool setting to start really becoming friends with him. He asked me if I was related to Heber C Kimball, he has been reading about the church history on mormon.org and came across the name. He loved the tie we gave him. He said that he's already talked to his dad about his baptism and he's supportive. 

I feel like I am doing a terrible job of explaining it all and leaving so much out but to put it simply, Dawid is excited to be baptized, he is really changing to prepare himself, and we couldn't be happier. All of my prayers, studies, and thoughts are focused on him right now and helping him to be ready. The members were great at welcoming him yesterday. I simply feel blessed to be a part of this. Thank you so much for your prayers.

Among this we had a full week. Elder Whiting came down and we had an amazing time being reunited! We were able to talk and offer support, just like in the MTC. I've missed my Elder Whiting therapy. We went out contacting and it was fun to be so excited with another missionary to go out and find and teach! We had an inspired lesson with Justyna, a girl in her 20s, and then were able to help a guy change a flat tire. It was just an awesome exchange.

When Elder Platter returned we immediately were laughing and having fun, being friends with a companion and having missed them when they leave for a couple of days is such a blessing. We went up to Gdynia for the first time (the top city of the tri-city area) to visit John, the Nigerian member at the marine university. We met up with him at his dorms and met a bunch of his friends from this group who are in this course. It was a party, so much fun! Elder Platter made the comment that even despite the food Nigeria would be an incredible place to serve because of the people! I was able to have a cool conversation with Jason, we are excited to return and get to know them better. 

I feel like I should have more to say, having had one of the most packed weeks of my mission. MY spiritual counsel for today is to be astonishing. As I'm reading in Alma people are constantly "astonished" by the missionaries. The love, the spiritual power, and thoughtfulness of the missionaries I've worked with is astonishing. Go and serve and love those around you, love them when it doesn't make sense, when it doesn't seem fair. Serve others and pray for a heart overfilling with love leading to acts that will shock others because of the selflessness you show. President Edgren has asked us to create a plan of action for 2015. I'm working to create it and it's heading is to be astonishing - not because I'm the best or most talented in anything - because of the love I emanate by the way I love and the person I am. Commit to yourself and to God and have that personal integrity. 

z wyrazami miłości,

Starszy Kimball

Our "filling"

We had zone conference this past week so undoubtedly we are pumped. Getting together as missionaries is powerful and spiritual, I received a lot of guidance. This past time I was able to see that I have made meaningful relationships with others, it's something I've questioned before, sometimes feeling like those around me are just relevant for now but I've come to find that isn't the case. Sister Edgren is currently recovering from a surgery in Utah so President and Sister Edgren weren't with us this time, rather odd but we feel their love and had a strengthening time nontheless.

Consistency is so hard. I've been battling it my whole mission, really my whole life. I'm not close to mastering it but this conference taught me that it's time to be serious with it, I think our personal integrity is closely linked to consistency. The greater lesson I learned is to follow my heart. Elder Hubbard (from my MTC group and one of my best friends out here) made a comment about how the Holy Ghost is a "feeling". Thanks to his Utahn accent I was taught another lesson when I first heard that the Spirit is a "filling". Both are absolutely right. I know that the Holy Ghost fills us to completion. I know that despite our weaknesses and desires for imperfect things our hearts are pure. By our feelings we can know how to move forward when we are guided by the Spirit and when we have honest and sincere self relfection. Our feelings lead us to feel successful and at peace or anxious and hopeless -the heart is our greatest compass. I'm trying to implement this into my missionary and personal life (because really they are the same).

Dawid is incredible. Before our lesson with him this past week read a pamphlet about the plan of salvation. We planned to talk about this during our meeting but he seemed to already know and agree with all of the principles. We could tell he wanted to talk about something else but were unsure of what. We brought up this life and talked about baptism again. This was just what he had been wondering about. He asked about the requirments for baptism and so we explained the need to have faith in Christ, repent, have hope that the Book of Mormon is true etc. but this all seemed to be obvious so he kept asking "what else?" So I went right for it and brought up following commandments and we started teaching about the word of wisdom. He's told us before that he is trying to quit smoking. It was exactly what he'd been looking for. At first he seemed a little hesitant but then he accepted it all. He went on to ask about life after baptism, if we have to continue to live according to these commandments. We acknoledged that we do. He then started asking about missions and how they work. His questions showed that he is really considering the implications of baptism and what kind of change this will have in his life. It was incredible to be there with him. He seems to like all that we've said but still needs a spiritual confirmation and he hasn't studied the Book of Mormon or prayed to find out and he knows he needs to to receive an answer. It turns out he's only 19 (I keep forgetting univserity students are my age). He is just awesome, he wore a white shirt to the meeting and in his closing prayer thanked Heavenly Father to be sitting in a circle among disciples of Christ. He is a sharp guy and I hope he receives and notices his answer soon.

My love for Poland conitues to grow. Seeing the concentration camp last week, visiting the solidarity museum today, and being a part of the Independance Day parade last Tuesday instilled a Polish pride within me. 

We also met Piotr this week. He is athiest/agnostic and we had an interesting conversation. All of his arguments reminded me of things I heard in high school. People are afraid to trust their feelings. We are quick to accept apparent "facts" from the experiments of others but our own personal experience may seem less trust worthy. I've noticed that so many lack a personal relationship with Christ. My confidence in my faith comes because I have come to know Christ, now I am still on that path but I don't fear because I know God will lead me. If we have a personal relationship with our Savior it doesn't matter, which is church is right or which argument because your personal knowledge of Him will help you find truth amidst the confusion. I know that the Holy Ghost accompanies me in my missionary work and in my daily life. He sends me feelings of love, provides peace, and helps me make decisions to help me become a better self. If you want to be free from the confusion of the world, come to know Christ.

with love,

Starszy Kimball

Weźmy sprawy w swoje ręce

Life flying: flying fast and flying high.

We are rocking it here in Gdańsk, our district is tight, we are having fun, doing a lot of work, and building relationships. All of the things I have always wanted to do on my mission are coming to pass. Explnation:

On Wednesday we went over to Józef and Irena's and raked some leaves, well more like a lot of leaves, and then Irena and Halina prepared another huge polish meal for us. We had a lesson about charity and talked about the branch here in Gdańsk. I could feel these members' love and could understand what they spoke. They were grateful for our service and invited us back for some time soon. 

Elder Platter and I also met with Jadwiga, a widow in the branch. We chopped some fire wood and gathered a bucket of coal for her. As we met she fed us this delicious homemade chicken soup and then for dessert she made a rice, apple, cinnamon loaf that she drizzled cream over. There was peace and comfort in her home, I felt the Spirit so clearly. I asked her about her ancestors and she brought out a tin box. She showed a few fun items including a little metal mirror case, which when opened up revealed her first temple recommend from the 90's. We also had a lesson about charity and unity and in our time there I felt such gratitude for being where I am and knowing that I couldn't be anywhere else. 

We had another lecture at the university here, the students are studying religion, which helped and they were very kind and encouraging. Sister Grgich made a mistake that Elder Finch made in a similar situation (a lecture here in Gdańsk) a couple of years ago. She said that when Joseph Smith went to find answer he went "do lasek". Lasek is a little forest but because of the declinations of words in Polish with "do" (in English "to") lasek would become "lasku". Now usually, when we missionaries make these mistakes it doesn't really matter because we are generally understood, the problem with this one is that the word "laski" turns to "lasek" with the word "do" so it changed the meeting of her statement. Instead of saying that Joseph Smith went to the forest Sister G said that he went searching for an answer going to the "chicks" or "girls". Luckily, the professor spoke up and most of the class knew what she had meant but polish slip ups make me smile.

We had a YSA/MD (young single adult/ młodzi dorośli) activity with John (member from Nigeria studying for a year in Gdynia - a part of this tri-city area) and Patryk (the recently activated branch mission leader). It was fun, a small group but it helped to build relationships and confidence in one another. 

Our finding efforts are going well, Elder Platter and I along with the sisters have found a lot of potential in our area, we are just trying to set up meetings with those we have come in contact with. Łukasz we met on a free table (when we bring a table out and lay free materials out on it eg. Book of Mormon, brochures, cards to mormon.org etc) and after switching numbers and walking away he sent us a little text with just a smiley face. Then one night Elder Platter and I were hurrying to a meeting (speaking english) when a guy in front of us turns around and (in Polish) asks what we are doing and what we are all about. It caught us off guard but he turned out to be interested and exchanged numbers with us. It was a fun week with a few other inspired path crossings.

Our meeting with Dawid was incredible. We planned to have it at the chapel with a member to help but things didn't work out last minute so we ended up meeting at Dawid's just the three of us (and Arek, his roommate who was doing homework, making weird comments spiratically but I think is interested). Despite the change in plans and lack of a member to help us it was a powerful meeting. Dawid is a sharp, student studying physics and math at the polytechnical university of Gdańsk. At the beginning of the lesson he seemed to be a little bored or distracted at times but it turned out to be spirit filled. We talked about faith, repentance, baptism, and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost all focusing on the Atonement of Christ. He had his computer so we were able to include some videos (the first time I had ever done that but it was surprisingly helpful). We showed one with Elder Holland (an apostle of the church) explaining the Book of Mormon and the second was "Because of Him". ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_S3TI4bYerU - watch, it's good). He said that he always has known God exists but admitted that his baptism doesn't have much meaning. After we taught the role of baptism to purify and empower us as we decide to follow Christ he said that baptism would be very important. He still wants to pray and study to know if what we are teaching is true but he is ready to trust the answer from Heavenly Father and is confident that he will receive his answer. In the closing prayer Dawid thanked Heavenly Father for one of the most important meetings of his life. It felt so good to teach and testify about Christ and the way we can progress. There was unity, love, and the Spirit with us. It was so much fun.

My current planner is covered by a polish newspaper I was handed and on the front I found a caption that says "weźmy sprawy w swoje ręce" (let's take matters into our own hands) and that seems to perfectly describe what is going on in Gdańsk. We have plans to implement YSA, FHE (family home evening - activity with a spiritual lesson, a game, and some food), an English, musical fireside etc etc. We are on fire and it feels great. I didn't have time to exaplain my heading last week but I am striving to be a publisher of peace. In reading the Book of Mormon recently that is a theme that has stood out to me. To be successful we cannot be a perfectionist or self-critical, I learned that again this week. We do need to be humble and diligent, patient as well.

We have also been enjoying Poland. Last week we went to the beach in Sopot for P-day, where we sat, ate and jammed out to Sister Grgich playing on the guitar. Today we took a bus to Stutoff, a concentration camp about an hour out of Gdańsk by bus. This trip was harder for me emotionally than my trip to Auschwitz roughly a year ago. It is hard to see the evil in the world, to recognize the influence it has and how it affects others. This time I was able to connect my spiritual knowledge of God's plan easier, which was helpful. Poland is a beautiful nation with a messy past. I couldn't be anywhere else. I forgot how much fun it was to serve with Elder Platter and am thankful to be rocking with him for round two. The sisters are great, Sister Wood and I have experienced a lot of the same on our missions so it's nice to have somebody to relate to and learn from. 

Life is good. Still hard, still crazy, but full of light and hope. 

kocham was wszystkich,

Starszy Kimball

I'm pretty frustrated because we've had rotten luck regarding libraries and computers here in Gdańsk. I feel rushed every week, even more so than usual.

This week was wonderful! We spent a lot of time with the members, building relationships. This is something I've always wanted to do but have had a hard time with - here it's been easier and more natural.

We had dinner with Józef and Irena on Tuesday. They are an older couple that were sealed in the Freiburg temple last Spring. They invited us to help them prepare the graves of their son and parents for the holiday on the First of November Wszystkich Świętych (all saints day). It was fun to be in the hustle and bustle of the best cemetery, cleaning the graves and marking them with flowers and candles. We then went back to their place for some lunch where Halina (the oldest member in Poland, 87) joined us - she is currently living with Irena and Józef. We went over to theirs for a third time on Saturday to be the translators between them and the senior couple the Shaws. We were fed three times by them this week and the food was delicious. We had pumpkin soup, pickle soup, potatoes, chicken and pork, cabbage salad, pickled peppers, plum dessert. It was all so good. Józef has been a member for a couple decades and so has Halina. They invited us back to rake their leaves this next week and feed us some more. We love them already, we are pretty tight with them.

We also visited with Jdawiga. We elders and the sisters made our way to her place just south of old town in Gdańsk. We got to know her: she is from a Belarussian family but moved to Poland when she was 3. She grew up in the same area where she lives now and told us about the history and culture. She is widowed and her son lives far away, which is hard. She took us on a walk around her area showing us her elementary school, the cemetery where her parents lay, and a couple fortress from World War 1. 

We were invited to be the guests at a lecture at Gdańsk University. We were surprised how young the students were (our age - I forget that I would be in my second year at college if I wasn't on my mission). Patryk, the 20 year-old branch mission leader accompanied us. We taught, bore testimony, had a great time. The teacher thanked us for our words and emotion. We were invited back to do it again this week! 

We have met some cool people. Dawid is a young student and Przemek is a father/husband who showed us around the beautiful old town of Gdańsk so we've finally seen it. We are having fun, working hard, and experiencing success. 

Sorry to be so brief but life is good! 

Love, 

Starszy Kimball

Last weeks letter:

We are settling in quite nicely. Gdańsk is so beautiful and fun, I'm enjoying it. The buildings, hills, trees are pretty and we went to Sopot this past week where the best beach is and saw the coast. I am very lucky.

Saturday was deathly cold with relentless winds but other than that the weather has been pretty good. We met some cool people this week but still aren't meeting with any one concretely. We celebrated Stan's birthday with him, he turned 30 this past week. He isn't a member but comes to church, family home evening, and English class. He hasn't received an answer about the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon and church yet, he also seems to be trying to figure out his future. We would like to be helpful friends but at this point the choices and decisions ahead are really up to him.

We have had some good experiences going home to home. Older residents start complaining about how late we knock, questioning our motives bothering them "past midnight" at about 19:30, which makes it tricky sometimes. We have met some large, vicious dogs this past week and I am pretty sure they have taken a couple years off my life as the suddenly attack out of the darkness. Thank goodness for the gates but I don't think my heart can take much more of it.

Last year in the darker colder months our schedule was adjusted so that we could take dinner at 20:00 rather than 17:00. It seemed to make sense since people aren't on the streets as much and they are going to bed earlier. This year President Edgren received specific instruction that we should stick to the normal schedule. It doesn't make to much sense to me at face value, that excited me though when I heard because when we are asked to do something that doesn't make sense and is hard I find that miracles of promises happen. This past week we have had our share of miracles during that odd time between 20:30 and 21:00. On Monday night we were walking home from visiting a neighborhood. We past by a homeless man who asked us for some money. As missionaries we aren't allowed to give money so we walked on. As we were doing so I looked down and saw in my bag a plate of peanut butter cereal bars the Shaws (the missionary senior couple) had made for us for our journey to Bydgoszcz the following day. I knew money was out of the question but I thought that this was something we could give. We turned around and headed back to the weathered-faced man and I pulled out the plate. I told him that we had no money to give him but these treats were his. He asked "all of them" since there was a plate full. I assured him that they were all for him but he continued to repeat the question two more times. Elder Platter then handed him some McDonalds fries he had left over from earlier in the day. As we walked away I felt a warmth in my heart. I have been praying to see ways in which I can do little acts of service, even more I have been praying to be aware of them because I know they are around but am often unfocused to see them. The perfect remedy for selfishness, self-doubt, self-pity, and fallen spirits is service. It can be frustrating when I go out everyday and offer my testimony of something much more valuable, life changing, and sweeter than a plate of cookies but nobody is interested. Sometimes I think I forget the value of an understanding of Christ as our Savior. I know that Heavenly Father puts people in our paths to help and when we do we are happy. Sacrifice is worth it, the way we come to know of these eternal truths is by experiencing them.

As I mentioned we went to Bydgoszcz this past week, my first time. We had a zone training given by Elder Whiting, Elder Hubbard, and Sister Owen all from my group - it was super fun. It's my first time being in the north zone (historically known as the party zone). The bond of missionaries is unique and powerful. As I mentioned we went to Bydgoszcz this past week, my first time. We had a zone training given by Elder Whiting, Elder Hubbard, and Sister Owen all from my group - it was super fun. It's my first time being in the north zone (historically known as the party zone). The bond of missionaries is unique and powerful.

President and Sister Edgren came up to Gdańsk this past weekend. They took us out to dinner on Satruday and we saw them at church on Wednesday. As they left President Edgren said that "things feel good here in Gdańsk" after having just concluded our church meetings. I know he put a new group up here to see some change and I think it's working. I am getting to know the branch, I spoke in church and then translated for President's talk - being the oldest missionary in a city (with Sister Wood) puts the responsibility on and I'm grateful to be growing and feeling set free.

One of my favorite topics to talk about with people is our potential. Realizing our potential is the goal. The first step of realizing is t be aware of our potential, what we are capable of becoming. The second meaning of realizing our potential is in the execution process as we fulfill the measure of what we were created to be. Each of us has been blessed with the ability to choose and act for ourselves. Our potential is much greater than being smart or successful in our careers; we have the potential to love, uplift and support one another. We are capable to make others happy and providing strength and wisdom from our own experience to help empower them. The perfect example of this loving servant is Christ. I am completely convinced of the power we have to bless others because of the love and support I receive from my family and friends along with my Redeemer and Enabler Jesus Christ.

Different strengths, different roles

First week here in Gdańsk, still figuring things out so I have next to no time but:

- my district is the best, I love being in a small group again and it's fun to be reunited with Elder Platter as well as Sister Wood

- Gdańsk is the prettiest city I've been to, everywhere we go is incredible - it was a hard change, leaving Warsaw was not easy, but I am already starting to fall in love with the city so the adjustment hasn't taken long

- Our branch is great, President Kempa (ranch president) and Patryk (20 year old branch mission leader) are awesome supports. Gosia and Martyn are a couple that were just sealed in the Stockholm temple this past week. There are a bunch of older sisters and then 4 kids - it's a bunch of fun. Stan is not a member but comes to church, we met with him and met his parents. We are getting to know the people

- There have been many miracles, from a family I met on the train here, to a couple we met yesterday. We are working hard and having fun.

- We got a knife pulled on us yesterday, we weren't really threatened but it was still a little freaky...

- quick thought: before I left Warsaw Elder Garrett wisely reminded me that we all have different strengths in order to fulfill different roles. I have seen that so many times already since being in Gdańsk. Yesterday at church I noticed a theme of the gospel being about the journey of our progress. We fall but then get back up, when we are doing it with others it is infinitly easier and as we all play our part we will fill a need in the lives of others.

Always pray, it's the only way to get to know Heavenly Father and receive blessings He is waiting to give you.

z wyrazem miłości,

Starszy Kimball

Love is a gift

Don't have too much time this week so here it is:

This past Saturday our district (Sisters Poklinkowska & Moncur and Elders Weggersen &Wright and Garrett & me) went to Cmentarz Powązkowski (cemetery). It was one of the most perfect moments I have ever had in my life. Cemeteries have proved to be very reverent, spiritual places for me. The autumn has come so golden leaves and deep reddy-brown nuts covered the ground and graves. Beautiful graves of many filled our path with beautiful statues and art. Graves of the famous, who defended Warsaw during the uprising as well as those families who lived, died, and now lie together were around us. We were in one of the oldest cemeteries of Poland. I wish I could express how much love and peace and happiness I felt. It was just the perfect morning. I love Poland, I am officially convinced that i couldn't be anywhere else.

We met with Bogumił and Arek (found out his full name is Arkadiusz! how cool). I just have to reiterate that each of us will have understanding and a view of truth based upon our experience. I know that Heavenly Father is the author and source of all truth. Coming unto Christ, learning about Him and becoming more like Him, our Savior, will require that we are humble and willing to change - not only our actions but even our thoughts and will.

Well a lot of change is happening this next week. I am heading up north to Gdańsk! Back to a smaller (but big for Poland) branch with only four missionaries in the city. I will be serving with Elder Platter again! I am so excited, I guess we didn't learn everything we were supposed to the first time when training but it will be fun to be reunited. Sister Wood is also coming up, I was with her in the MTC and then in Wrocław. Sister Grgich is the only one who will already have been there, she is new so Sister Wood and I will officially be the oldies. It's a fresh start for Gdańsk and us missionaries. I am so excited to jump in and get started. It breaks my heart to leave Warsaw but I think I will be back.

There are so many gifts we receive from our Heavenly Father. The miracles and gifts are just that. Often I think that I need to reach a certain point before asking for certain gifts but the funny thing is that we need those gifts to reach those very points of progression. I know that the gifts and talents we want are within reach. We just need to ask for them with sincerity and gratitude. We must be willing to work and trying but once again I am reminded that doesn't mean being perfect, it just means taking one thing on a time and working with Christ to overcome it. I am grateful for the love that fills my heart as I pray for it. Prayer is a power, a source of light in our lives. I am grateful for the specific guidance and peace I receive thanks to this simple communication with my Father in Heaven. 

I can't wait to send updates with what's going on in Gdańsk! 

Starszy Kimball

Nie bój się, tylko wierz!

Watching general conference with all of the missionaries here in Warsaw (including President and Sister Edgren) was full of unity and energy. The weekend was sunny and beautiful and we were all on top of the world. A lot of excitement, revelation, and wisdom filled our weekend as we listened to the words of the leaders of Christ's church, so as we see it: the words of Christ He relays to us through His servants on Earth.

I remember talking with my mom before the mission about some political opinion. It came to my attention that we had the same view and my mom made the comment that I think the way I do/ have the views I do because of my parents. I firmly believe that our own convictions are based upon our experience and nurturing but that comment bothered me. I didn't want to think some way just because my parents did but I wanted to believe in it because it was "right". As I started out my mission I soon discovered that there are a lot of differing opinions even among members of our church and I tried to open myself up to be corrected as I found more objective truth. The funny thing now is that I have found that most of my views and thoughts have been confirmed and not changed. There is a metamorphic process that occurs within the mission field but at the same time I think I have found the truth I already had. Growing up I was taught and exposed to a lot and I feel like my mission has given me the opportunity to go off on my own and experience life to find this truth I was already blessed with. The great thing is now I know that I don't only believe it because those around me do, they are the messengers in my life but I have found the answers in personal ways. 

During general conference there are different sessions (two hour blocks when different apostles, church leaders, and the prophet will speak) and a common theme of revelation I received was the divinely inspired placement I received into my family. More specifically I received assurance that my mother and father's role as my parents is with purpose. The peace, surety, and gratitude I felt is indescribable. This idea leads me to my next point.

I realized that in missionary work (and in general) I need to be more trusting of others. I cannot control everything and others need to have their own experience and own conviction. Just as I have they need to not rely on my belief but go forward themselves. I know that we all see things because of the different paths we walk and I know that Heavenly Father watches over each of us. We can only know of His divinity and love as we search. He has laid out a simple experiment for us to try if we want to meet Him, our Heavenly Father. We cannot be prideful, want to do things our own way and refuse to be wrong. Rather we must go to him in humility, doing what he invites us to do and open up our hearts. I think that is the real trick, softening our hearts.

I know that in order to trust others to find truth for themselves we need to first find truth for ourselves. President Edgren has adopted the motto "nie bój się, tylko wierz" which translates to "fear not, only believe". I need to rid myself of fear that I have as I teach: the worries and stresses that stem from doubt. This void of fear comes when we have faith in Christ.

I feel like this first half of my mission was focused on my growth. My needs, insecurities, and trials. At this point I think my focus is ready to change. I know that I will continue to be blessed with lessons to learn and strength to lift me up as I struggle but I feel empowered and excited to turn outward, stop focusing so much on me and more on others. Just in my thoughts and focuses on the daily level. 

If you want to be able to claim that you personally know something is true go out and do it, experience it and I know that your own witnessing of events will give you a clear surety.

Another transfer looms with the last full week ahead. We are working with Arek and Bowumił still as well as Asad and Musa (our friends from Afghanistan). There was also a fun cultural service activity we did last Saturday. November 1st is "All Saints Day" when cemeteries are packed as descendants come to admire the candle lit resting place of their predecessors. This month everyone is going to the grave site of their family to prepare it for the holiday. We cleared leaves, scrubbed the headstone and outer tomb then placed flower arrangements on top. The feelings reverence, love, and gratitude for ancestors here is touching. Saturday morning the sun was shining and the cemetery was beautiful. My favorite part of the whole thing was to see people seated at the benches and stools (they have permanently placed at the foot of the graves) to ponder, in admiration, on the lives of their families. 

I had two exchanges, one with Elder Fotu (he was set apart as a missionary by the same Stake President - he's from highland) and Elder Wright (the current Warsaw trainee who is such a good missionary!) A lot of fun is currently in the work for me in Warsaw.

Ciepło was kocham,

Starszy Kimball

Wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles

The stress of another transfer's end is seeping in. Luckily, this week was full of more experiences to enjoy. 

I went on exchange with Elder Guthrie, he is the district leader in Lublin. I have gone down a couple times but just for the day, this was my first chance to spend some real time there. With the weather changing, the days getting shorter, and being on exchange I felt like I was back in Katowice nearly a year ago. The season change is taking me back to the beginning of my mission and it's weird. Elder Guthrie is awesome, he is a super likable, happy guy who is also an obedient, hard working missionary. We had dinner with the Gładun family (Sister G made some gołąbki [cabbage and meat in a tomato sauce] - so so good). It was a good time. I am good friends with a couple of the Elders down there so it was a ton of fun. 

The day I returned was Elder Garrett's birthday. We celebrated by going out to Manekin. It is a funky naleśniki (crepe) place and the food was so good. We went as a district for lunch and it was so much fun.

We went to Łazienki Królewkie Park yesterday day for lunch (since it was fast Sunday) and saw a Chopin concert. We went to a fair on Saturday in Wola (our dzielnica of Warsaw) in the old Jewish ghetto. It was a fun week. 

I was sick for a couple days, it was lame but I drank lots of tea and am all better. Luckily, my ailment didn't stop the work. We met with Bogumił. We met his daughter Kasia (Kate) who just started the IB. Bogumił is super cool, he is studying Hebrew right now and there are so many great connections we have made together about the Bible and gospel truths. We met with Arek after a couple weeks of flaked/ canceled meetings. He has been faithfully coming to church every week but it was nice to finally meet with him. He is a super sweet guy and we are just trying to help teach him so he understands his worth, potential, and plan from Heavenly Father. 

There was a baptism this week, the sisters in Warsaw II have been working with Anna for a couple weeks and I got to be there at her baptism. The Spirit was so strong. I have been focusing a lot on the companionship of the Spirit in my prayers and studies and as I have been more mindful of His presence I have felt his light, comforting influence frequently. Anna is an example to me, she is already so faithful and ready to work, she is exactly what the church needs and I know that her life has already been blessed personally thanks to the gospel of Christ.

On the topic of great members we met with Filip Borowski this week. I cannot relay how good our meetings are with him. I learn so much every time. He is an incredible teacher with so much genuine power and comfort. The topic of the meeting was something that Elder Garrett and I discussed in companionship study this past week.

We were commenting on the nature of talking with people on the streets. It's come to my attention that people who stop on the street and 1. listen to us, 2. exchange numbers with us, or even 3 set up with us don't follow the norm. The "normal" thing to do would be to walk past us. What we do isn't "normal". Those that stop are the extraordinary. A miracle has been described as divine intervention that we cannot imitate or fully understand. I would say that every success we have as missionaries is a miracle. There is already so much truth in the world along with varying experiences and understanding. It's a marvel that some people are willing to open themselves up to us. We don't argue with people, we don't convince people about the authenticity of our message. We missionaries strive to invite others to come unto Christ relying on the power of the Holy Ghost. Some of what we have to say will make sense and be in accordance to others paradigms but other principles or doctrines will differ, maybe even clash. I know that it's a miracle when people accept what we have to say because it is the Spirit that let's them know. I don't like to teach much without first inviting others to pray and seek Heavenly Father's, our God's, confirmation of the truthfulness of what we claim. Heavenly Father wants us to know and understand His plan for us, we won't get it all at once, honestly we will comprehend very little but I know that by filling our heart and mind with impressions, feelings, and thoughts our Father in Heaven will let us know personally His will. It takes humility, it takes change, and it is worth it because it helps us become our best self. It is a miracle that Heavenly Father directs us by the power of the Holy Ghost because I cannot imitate nor understand it fully but thanks to my own witness and experience I am sure of His divinity. It is a wonder and a miracle to me that thanks to Christ's Atonement our Savior and Father understand our circumstances perfectly and work together in unity to guide us by the light and influence of the Spirit of God. 

If you want to find truth humble yourself and open yourself up. There is truth all around us, from all sources and Heavenly Father is the author of it all. He will protect and lift us and explain how it all connects to help us reach our potential. 

As it says on every box tymbark juice (my favorite brand) "kochaj życie!" "love life!"

Starszy Kimball

"and now, if you believe all these things see that ye do them" - Mosiah 4:10

Diligence has been on my mind a lot ever since the missionary leader training meeting at the beginning of this transfer. I feel like it affects my work most when I think not only about being diligent on my own but with other missionaries. It is impossible to be diligent alone as a missionary but it is also challenging to be diligent with others because it requires constant love, patience, and unity. I don't feel a lack of any of those really, especially in my current companionship with Elder Garrett - we are feeling strong. Balance is just a tricky principle to work on. This whole focus has really changed my mission. It requires us missionaries to break the pride and expectations set by the culture we have here in order to put our efforts into being obedient and hard working in a way that will lead most effectively to us fulfilling our purpose.

We had zone conference, about half the mission again with both Warsaw zones (including missionaries from: Warsaw, Łódź, Kielce, and Lublin). It was fun, exciting to see everyone and filled with the Spirit and revelation. I have noticed just how often I am feeling the Spirit. Having the constant companionship of the Spirit leads and guides me in light and with that there are so many burnings in my heart indicating to me the truthfulness of things around me which bring me peace, comfort, and self-empowering hope. The focus of this zone conference was planning and goal setting. As soon as the topic was announced I knew it was a conference for me. President Edgren shared a story about a farmer who spent all day trying to accomplish errands but whenever he found one and tried to accomplish it another one would arise and by the end he had achieved nothing that day. It describes me a lot of the time, the overwhelming stress I have had enough of. This story illustrates how silly it is to take everything on but it is so hard for me to focus on one thing when there is so much to do. I have been receiving council from scriptures, church leaders (from their talks, for example when President Uchtdorf came to visit), and local mission leaders to focus on improving a little bit every day. That's the real goal, to be consistently, gradually improving. President taught well the balance we need. He also talked about the worthlessness of good intentions when nothing is done with them. It reminded me of an interview I had with Ms. Robinson for CAS. CAS (creativity, action, service) is a requirement of the IB diploma te help create well rounded graduates who contribute to society. Ms. Robinson was the only teacher I had all five years during my time at La Chataigneraie - I learned a lot from her example and actions. During this specific interview she caught me off guard with the question "after pondering about your experiences from doing all of these activities what is your biggest strength and weakness?" I took a moment and then answered that i felt like I had pure intentions, I wanted to help others and do the right thing but my execution was weak because I often became too busy and overwhelmed so I didn't accomplish what I wanted to and missed reaching my potential. This conference addressed this same concern. My mission is giving two things I lacked greatly before 1. hope 2. confidence. In order to reach our potential and accomplish what we can we need to believe in ourselves and as I read this morning, that is most easily done when we believe in God. When we believe in others we trust them and so it is when we believe in Christ, not merely that we know He is there rather we are sure that as we look to Him He will lift us up and help us improve. I know that we can become those better people we envision but it's not all at once, it's not one big project, it's not even two years in the mission field but it's all about the daily dose of hope, diligence, and love. 

I am also constantly being reminded of the little acts of love and service I need to be doing all the time - this will require no check list but an adapted mentality. Something else I want to work on. 

I am currently enjoying the "złota polska jesiań" (the golden Polish autumn) it is starting and I will be sure to grab some pictures soon. The weather got warmer again for a while but I think fall is officially on the way and I love it. Seasons changing is always something I enjoy. 

Despite the seeming lack of time (we are already more than half way done with this transfer) this week I felt great. I felt like we got a lot done and I felt fulfilled. We had a great whiteboard with our sisters and then a big family history themed whiteboard yesterday with a bunch of the missionaries in Warsaw I. It was funny having crowds come up to us for a change with a topic that intrigued so many. I was in my element talking to people about the blessings of families and our ancestors - it was a big personal success. I also met a couple from Flanders and a man from France and so was able to muster up the few words I can remember in Dutch and French to make some connections. It was a lot of fun. 

Elder Garrett and I were able to have two incredible lessons this week. Bogumił is a husband and father (to a daughter currently doing the IB program). He is Polish, studies languages (he's currently studying Hebrew and has a ton of cool insight thanks to his studies), and met missionaries in Wrocław where Elder Garrett and I both started. He's met with missionaries in the past and Elder Garrett and I set up last week. He is wise but humble and open. It is a miracle that he understands some basic truths about the gospel. Especially, when people are well-educated they have a hard time understanding how simple the gospel message is. He said that despite the details and intricacy of the God's plan thanks to His omniscience our part in the plan in simple. For all of the complication we make for ourselves the gospel is simple. Bogumił is an incredible guy and Elder Garrett and I are excited to meet and work with him.

Jarek texted us the week before last. We met him on the street at the beginning of the transfer and exchanged numbers but hasn't had any contact since then. He then texted us wanting to meet. So we did. It was incredible and showed me how Heavenly Father is preparing people. Jarek wants to return to Christ and hopes for a united family. It was a perfect first lesson. A lot to take in but he understood the depth and significance of what we taught and humbly accepted to seek for himself the truth of it.

We are currently very lucky for the people around us.

Happy ventures this week,

Starszy Kimball

z ciemności w światło

There is a billboard for some performance that had a caption I really like: "z ciemności w światło" (from out of the darkness into the light). I feel like this describes how I am feeling. I have had my little crisis of sorts but now I am enjoying the light. There are a few reflections as well as events that helped this week.

1. Mark (an RM who is visiting Poland on assignment with the air force) took us out to dinner this week. We were with Kasia, a member he is good friends with, and we went to Zapiecek, a classic restaurant featuring Poland's greatest classic foods. As we ate pierogi, kiełbasa, bigos, and naleśniki with some compot we talked and were able to have a really nice time. It's not too often we are treated to such a feast. Mark also gave a lot of meaningful insight. He didn't "have any baptisms" during his time in Poland and talked about how difficult that was. He then explained how he learned that the relationships he has built are still going. From my recent struggles this was comforting to hear. It reminded me of my calling and doing what I was capable of, building relationships and influencing the lives of others for good. 

2. The following day (Wednesday) we attended the funeral of Kasia's mother, Klaudia Górniak. Since Elder Garrett is musical I was a part of a quartet that sang by the grave side "Gdzie znajdę spokój swój" (Where can I turn for peace). The cemetery was over an hour drive away positioned away from the town by some forest covered land. It was peaceful and as we walked along to her grave sight I felt the Spirit testify so strongly of the goodness of the lives of the polish people now remembered by their headstones. Kasia gave a touching expression of love for her mother and hope for the next life and the peace and surety we enjoy now thanks to the Savior. 

3. We had a lesson with some former invesitgators that went really well, Bartek and Przemek. We also met with Musa from Afghanistan. We talked about turning to prayer and the Book of Mormon to find love, peace, and guidance. He taught us some Perski (persian/ farci) and even wrote our names in their cool, beautiful alphabet. 

4. I was able to have an exchange with Elder Weggersen, from Norway and in the same group as Elder Garrett. I love them both and I am grateful to be surrounded by such good friends.

5. All of the missionaries in Warsaw 1 banded together for a finding activity in the Rynek (old town square) of of Warsaw. Our focus was talents and we had quite the attention capturing set up. We had a couple of whiteboards with drawings and photographs from artsy missionaries and then we had some missionaries singing. Sister Moncur and I were on the first shift of singers, neither of us are singers but it was a lot of fun. I had two lessons: one with a polish couple from a city near Wrocław who were really kind and ready to talk. They had great faith and established views but were easy to talk with and accepted to test out my invitation to read and pray about the Book of Mormon. I also talked to two girls from Israel. At the Rynek There was a huge group of Jewish students who were touring Poland seeing the historical sites of their ancestors lives and deaths. The two that I spoke with both had Polish Jewish heritage. It was the most Spirit filled lesson of the week and it was a great practice (in Enlgish) to be personal and raw. It was an energy and unity boosting activity and super successful! 

6. President Edgren sent out a weekly email this week about perfection. He has some needed wisdom shared and I was grateful to learn from what he said. Even if I have trouble seeing how this mission needs me at times it has become clear how much I need this mission. The inspiration President Edgren has been receiving and sharing recently has richly blessed my life and work. I am grateful to be here and enjoying my mission! 

I love you all,

Starszy Kimball