Refiners Fire

     This has been such a great week in my mission. The spirit of General Conference was something I will never forget. The week prior to this was a bit trying. We were going through a “refiners fire.” Going through a refining time is hard while you are going through it. But it's amazing to see how much you grow when you come out on the other side isn't it? 
     I loved Elder Christofferson's talk when he talked about being trimmed and cut down.  It’s the most true statement in the world, God truly does know who he wants us to become.  We have to go through trials to be able to grow.  
    We went through a tough week to be able to experience the joys of this week!  This week was a true blessing from heaven. We were able to find a new investigator in each ward and begin re-teaching a few others!  One lady Lora, we have been trying to get ahold of for weeks. We were planning on giving up.  On Friday we were praying where we should go and we felt strongly to go knock on her door. So we drove down there and we knock on her door and she answers “Come in!”  It was such a miracle!  There wasn’t another male in the house so we asked if we could come right back and bring a member!  A member was there within five minutes which was another miracle because it was in the afternoon!  As we taught she said she had previously been to church activities from friends in Arizona, but was nervous because all Mormon families seemed perfect!  Very far from the truth.  We are all far from perfect!!  She was amazed that there was a prophet on the earth she said "there is not a more needed time for a prophet!"  It was an amazing lesson.   This week was one of many miracles and a week I will always be thankful to the Lord for! 
    I love serving here in this wonderful mission!  Conference was simplying amazing.  I was most touch by the talks on charity!  It is my hope that we can all reach out a little more to those around us. We are truly blessed beyond measure, our cups are overflowing and the world needs us.  There are many less fortunate than us!  I love you all so much and hope you truly have a great week!!!  Love, Elder Aiken.