What's up, everyone! Another transfer down. This one is tough because I have to say goodbye to my guy, Elder Cloward. The last three months we've had here have been some of the most grueling I've had, but without a doubt the most fun. Yesterday we received transfer news, and I will be transferred to Sapucaía, which is another area not too far from Rio Branco. Elder Cloward will continue in the area and keep the work going.
This week has been one of the best of my mission. It's almost as if the work has done a 180 and all of a sudden started to go our way. We taught multiple lessons this week and marked multiple dates with people who really need the brightness and hope of the gospel. Cloward and I had the opportunity to give multiple priesthood blessings of comfort to those that are in need. This week was also one of the greatest I've had in just connecting and being amongst the people. We were invited multiple times for dinner and spent most nights sharing stories and explaining what the purpose is as missionaries. Some of the most special times on your mission are getting to just sit down and talk with the people. So many people come from different walks of life and so it's truly a blessing to be able to connect and indulge in an entirely different culture.
This Sunday, I also had the chance to give a talk. Elder Cloward and I were the only ones asked to speak, so I knew we had to come up with a lot. I ended up speaking for almost 20 minutes about hope in the gospel and the importance of trusting the process. Our continual effort is what will help us overcome the obstacles in our life. The Lord's will is truly what is best for us, and so it's our job to accept the things he desires for us and be willing to sacrifice and change if needed.
This area is definitely my hardest to leave. I've grown closest and created the best relationships with those that live here. After church on Sunday, I said my goodbyes and had multiple people text me that night saying their house is open to my family and I anytime. As I look back on the time I've had here, it's clear that despite the work being a constant grind, I truly connected and left an impact on the members here. Each and every one of them inspired me and I couldn't be more grateful to have met them.
With that being said, my next comp happens to be one of my best friends in the mission. We're pumped to get after it and have a lot of hope on what will be an awesome transfer. I love this gospel and I love the mission! Estamos juntosssss!
Elder Copeland
