Week 74: Epic Passages

Good morning everyone. It's been a quiet morning full of packing and reflection. That's right, I'm moving. The Isle of Wight will no longer be my area as of tomorrow morning. I am sad to go and sad to leave Elder Brown, but honestly, I feel like this chapter of my mission is closing quite seamlessly. Let me tell you why.

Firstly, this week was amazing. Elder Brown and I saw so many miracles as we tried to talk to everyone we could. As a result, he and his new companion have 5 lessons scheduled for their first three days together. I was able to go on exchange with Elder Toro Diaz. He has been in Portsmouth as long as I have been on the Isle of Wight. We have become good friends and brothers (the night we were on exchange, he turned to me at one point and said "Elder McKinley...you're my bro" haha I love that kid so much) and he was the first and last person I had exchange with during my time on the island. I also rode the car ferry across to the island with the senior couple who were inspecting our flat. One of the senior missionaries is a former English literature teacher and so, naturally, we exchanged poems on the sundeck of this massive ferry as it sailed slowly across the most expensive passage of water in the world under the blustery English sky. As you do. Elder Brown and I prepped for an english class that got cancelled because everyone got sick, but now we are prepared to teach it with 15 minutes notice, any time, anywhere. We had a sports night and played volleyball with so many of the people I have come to love in my time here on the island. We laughed so hard, had full english breakfasts, made new friends, reconnected with old ones, reminisced the past and rejoiced in the future. I was able to say goodbye to many of these friends and have but a few more goodbyes today. Throughout it all, I have a felt a sense of peace in my heart as I have pondered the work I have done here these last few months. I came here with many things on my mind and many things holding me back, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Now, getting ready to leave, I feel empowered, refreshed, and ready to start a new chapter. I have no regrets and high hopes for the future. I credit the Lord for this. He has stood by me and will continue to stand by me, then, now, and forever. 

So. As to where I'm off to. 

I'm heading back to the Reading stake! I'm going to be in the Woodley ward which meets in the same building as the Reading ward. The area has part of the city centre and a small suburb called Woodley. My new companion is Elder Allkja from Albania. I've been in that flat before so I know it's a nice one. I'm excited. If my time on the island had to end, I'm glad it's happening this way. This could be my last area as well. Where has the time even gone. 

British word of the week: "not being funny" - It means you're serious; "not being funny, but the Isle of Wight is a great place" 

British food of the week: Reese rounds - idk if these are in the states but they're basically peanut butter patties (the girl scout cookie) and they're heavenly. 

Companion comic: honestly, just ask me about the time elder Brown and I had here when I get back. There are too many things. I'm going to miss this kid, but he has got it under control. 

Scripture of the week: Jacob 5:8

I love you all so much. Thanks for the love. Will send you my new address soon. Here's to new pastures that I've seen before :-)





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