Our Mission! California Oakland/SanFrancisco: The Spirit Invites Love

Missions are the BEST! I am learning so much about how to be a better human being. Each week we have a training devotional with the other managers in our Western Employment Area. The manager/host of the meeting this week asked us an introspective question that made me think. What did we do the past week that helped us to really invite the spirit? Each of us have busy lives, but we could slow down a little and do things more mindfully and allow the spirit to speak to us in that still small voice, so we can actually hear it and then follow those whisperings.

This week we helped improve prospects for several job seekers looking for employment, we fed a lot of hungry missionaries and we toured a coal mine and sand mine (used for making glass) with other senior couples, followed by pizza at Skipolini's. It made for a great week!

On Thursday at our shift at the Visitor's Center, it was fun to see Kaleen's sister and her family. They came to enjoy a short tour around several California sites, and it was so fun to hear about their adventures in person. While they were here, I was pleasantly surprised by an Elder from a different mission coming up and saying "Hey, are you Mr. Jerman? You taught me at Riverton Elementary!" My mind raced over the years, I glanced at his mission tag and it didn't ring a bell - but his face was very familiar. Luckily, he was glad to see me and we had a great little visit and we exchanged contact information. I'm very happy when I meet former students and they enjoy talking to me, because it could be otherwise. It reminded me much like when we get to the end of our lives, how will our old acquaintances come up to us and greet us, I hope we will have a positive memory about our experiences with them.

We had the privilege of eating lunch with an amazing senior couple this week that are true examples of Christ-like love and service. They were called to serve as Government Relation Missionaries. They basically make connections and build bridges with other countries who have offices in San Francisco. Their job is difficult because they don't wear their mission tags and they don't come right out and declare that they represent the church. They create opportunities to serve, build a positive relationship and show their love. That is what I want to do when I grow up. Simply show my love by doing good, without needing recognition. What a great goal. Here's hoping we all can be good examples this week.

Love,

Elder and Sister Jerman

Rees Family