This is the end . . .

dear fam,

The zone trainings went well. There was definitely a difference in the spirit with each district, mostly because of the conversion that they have had here on their missions. Amazing to see the definite difference. Thunderbay elders are for sure my favorite “go to” elders. They are pushing though anything and everything and are the best performing district right now. It’s wonderful to see and get to know all the elders in the zone.  

Tomorrow, Tuesday,  will be the temple day.  I believe I go at 330. President Hugh should be there, he said he would be. 

We were able to teach 3 lessons with all the craziness. 1 of them was a blessing and one that I would rather have not been around, but glad to see that we were able to supply comfort to a worried and scared mother. 

Ashen Diehl who is a recent convert of about 2 weeks.  On Saturday at around 11 o'clock they were crossing the road after doing some shopping at a Supper One grocery store. (anyone know what that is?)  A car going much faster than it should have been , the speed limit was 35 he was going about 50. The light was red and this car went up on the curb to pass the cars and took a right turn as Ashen and her daughter Maria where crossing the road. Maria was saved by being in the grocery cart. Ashen was hit, putting a huge dent in the hood and shattering the windshield. The man driving pulled around parked and walked away. Leaving the scene.  Luckily there was a fire fighters at Supper One, he witnessed the scene and was an immediate response. She has a broken back, and will be paralyzed from the chest down. She is still able to use her arms. She has had 2 cardiac arrests. Broken leg. Several broken ribs..  Her mother while at the hospital not knowing who to call, went though Ashen's phone and called us. We calmed her down and went over to visit and tried to be a source of support. It was terrible to see Ashen's mangled body. There were some brothers from the ward that got there first and were giving her a blessing. Ashen’s mother cried, possibly due to the spirit that was present. My stomach couldn’t handle that situation as well as I would like. We left after talking for a little bit. Today we will be going over again hopefully to see Ashen at a better state than she was on Saturday.     The hidden miracle in this is that her original date for baptism was Saturday, August 11.  The ward has been a big help and really reaching out to the family that’s in need, a sure testimony to me that the church is true. 

I am well. I am pleased with the service I have been able to render over that last 2 years. 

I love you see you soon

elder back