Great Week!

hey family,

looks like you all had a great week but mine was probably better. I dont have too much time, but ill just tell you some of the cool things that happened and some of the cool things that i learned.  First off, we got to have a special meeting with President Eyering, Elder Ballard and Elder Cristofferson.  They all spoke to us but Pres. Eyering´s was my favorite.  It hit me, just how strong of a testimony he has.  He is someone that can just testify.  He talked to us about his testimony.  He talked about some personal things that are happening right now in his family.  His baby granddaughter was born with only 6 months pregnancy.  she weighed a little over a pound and has already had heart surgery after 3 days.  They hurried and gave her a blessing and a name, just in case.  At this point, Elder Eyering was smiling.  He said this might sound really bad, so why am I smiling??? Its because I know, I KNOW, that we are sealed together for all eternity.  Regardless of what happens, I dont have to worry. 

He said that we always say we know God lives, but when we really come to KNOW that God lives, everything changes.  We become different people.  we act differently and we are truly happy people.  He talked how president Monson is carries so much weight with his calling, more than probably any other person in the world.  But every morning he comes in with a smile and a "Top of the Mornin".  Thats another key thing that we can all do.  Smile! 

I was studying in Alma 5 this week, about experiencing the change in heart.  We all have to experience that.  I can´t imagine and don't want to imagine looking into the saviour´s eyes on the last day with a conscience full of guilt.  I want to be able to give him a big hug and fall at his feet.  I want him to say "well done my good and faithful servant".  I feel like i´m still developing my testimony, because I dont think i have the same faith as President Eyring.  But I want to get there, and we can all get to that point through the same way.  Living the commandments.  Using the atonement in our lives.  giving it our all, and relying on the grace and mercy of Christ to do the rest.  I also testify that He lives and that He loves us.  He loves us so much and wants us to be successful and happy. 

I feel blessed to have the oppurtunity to represent the Lord.  We are doing a great work and cannot come down.  This weekend, Agueda is going to get baptized.  She has so much faith, it inspires me.  I´m so thankful for my family and the knowledge that we can be together forever.  Two years doesn´t seem so long compared to that does it?

I pray for you all every day.  Keep living worthy of the MANY blessings that you have.  I´ll keep trying to do the same.

Elder Skousen