The 61st Chronicle

Hello family and friends! 

We had a fantastic Independence Day! We ended up having a party at the Mormon Trail Center with all of the Sisters and Senior Couples (Elder Holden is pretty tight with President Johnson so he gave us a special invite). SO hype! After food and games we did some classic line dancing. In case you don't know what line dancing is have no fear…we did not dance WITH the Sisters, just BESIDE them. Wow, that sentance was just awkward. Anyhow! It reminded me of all the good times I’ve had before the mission swing dancing, so that was fun. Nothing like a good old pioneer vibe to celebrate a day of freedom. That evening we walked the Pedestrian Bridge which spans the Missouri river between Iowa and Nebraska. We were hoping to see some fireworks but it was still super light outside and we had to be in by 9pm. Saw some other missionaries there! We talked for a bit then went home to try and get some sleep. Funny thought, right? People were blasting fireworks until way after midnight 🎉🎉

I feel like being a Zone Leader is kinda like being a parent. A huge part of it is being an example. Your "children" follow your example. If you are obedient they have a greater chance of doing the same. You have to be consistent. If you are not consistent then chaos reigns. It's hard but it's worth it. If you didn't care you would let them do whatever they want. But! You do care so you will correct them as needed. You watch your "children" struggling over seemingly stupid stuff, but it's very real and important to them. This makes you slow down and take the time to talk them through it (and make needed adjustments). You need to help them feel loved and understood. You need to help them the best you can, but also let them realize that the desire to change must come from them. Your "children" will often try to ask for permission from one "parent" and if they don't like the answer they will go to the other one. Sneaky kids. They will test you over and over again. It's hard and annoying sometimes but overall so rewarding. Kinda weird how much missions apply directly to life. 🤔

I was thinking about the power of our words and promises. Elder Bahlmann reminded me of one of my favorite songs. Check out part of the lyrics below. Chris says it better than I could've...

'WHAT ARE WORDS' by Chris Medina

"Anywhere you are, I am near. Anywhere you go, I'll be there. Anytime you whisper my name, you'll see.

How every single promise I keep. Cuz what kinda guy would I be. If I was to leave when you need me most.

What are words, if you really don't mean them when you say them.

What are words, if they're only for the good times then they don't.

When it's love, yeah, you say them out loud. Those words, they never go away. They live on, even when we're gone ..."

Kia Kaha!

Elder Brady

p.s.  From Christine:  If you haven’t seen the music video, I attached the link below. Chris Medina “What Are Words" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQY4dIxY1H4