Last Friday we welcomed a new group -- all 22 of them. The arrival day is always so interesting and sometimes so painful. Many of them arrive so exhausted. We had a group of 11 from the states and that is a dreadful flight. They arrive at 10:15 in the morning and have to stagger through the day. Having done this myself, I so feel their pain.
As always, this group is very diverse. The first few meals they sit and look at each and exchange a few polite words but by Sunday they are conversing. It is interesting to watch. The Americans are generally much more outgoing, easy going, friendly and a bit laid back. The others are more reserved in the beginning, but soon loosen up and begin to interact.
We love the variety!!! Many of these elders and sisters are so accomplished and have had so many experiences that they bring to the group. They have traveled the world, learned languages, learned to be self sufficient and are so strong in the faith. Many of them have overcome tremendous challenges. Makes most of our lives feel quite plain and quite unchallenging.
Let me introduce you to a few.
We have one sister who was born in Hungary, moved to Russia as a child and has sinced lived in Italy and Mississippi. It was in Mississippi that she met the missionaries on the street and joined the church. She speaks 5-6 languages: Hungarian, Russian, Romanian, Italian, English and some Moldavian. She has a degree in Economics. Her mother has joined the church and she feels her father and brother will soon follow.
We have an elder from Poland who speaks English quite well. He was called to serve in Poland and was not happy about it, but is now beginning to get excited.
One elder from England, who is going to Oregon Portland, has graduated from Southampton University in Marine Biology and Oceanography, He spent the summer in Kenya as a snorkel guide.
A young elder from Switzerland just finished his military obligation of 430 days with a rank of sargeant. He has an American girlfriend who is waiting for him. (supposedly). He met her when she was in Switzerland as an Oper (nanny).
Two young man are fatherless -- one whose father committed suicide many years ago and another one whose father left the family for another man.
A beautiful young sister has come to us from Viet Nam. Her father is Hungarian, her mother is Swiss and she speaks German and Hungarian as well as English. She has lived in Switzerland, Hungary, England, America (BYU) and Viet Nam. She has 7 brothers, two of whom have been in this MTC in past years. She is as lovely a girl as you would ever meet.
One young man from Las Vegas has completed 3 internships with the Walt Disney Company.
And one adorable little sister who was born in Colombia, grew up in Peru, has lived in England for the past 5 years and has parents she has never met who live in America. She has a degree in pyschology and will continue with a masters after her mission.
They are plucked one of a city.........
They are strengthened by a loving Heavenly Father.
They are a chosen generation.....
They amaze us!
Wow
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