Dear Family,

Conference weekend was excellent. This was the first time I was able to really cherish the words of God's Prophet and Apostles. You start to really understand the awesome spiritual tools God has given you when you use them. The strong spirit I feel here, the words of living Prophets and Apostles and the scriptures provide me with so much guidance. It's like I've lived my whole life super oblivious to the blessings the Lord as been provided me with. For whoever reads this, I hope you understand that the chances we get to learn and worship are important. Christ would not have spent his final night on Earth teaching his apostles about the sacrament if it was not important. Everything we need is given to us. We just need to choose to see them. 

There's so much to be positive about. I find myself getting less frustrated and more willing to let things slide. For example as my district and I were walking into our dorm we were belting out pop ballads by The Fray. An old man who was cleaning the building took great frustration to our singing. Maybe he really hates The Fray. Maybe he was just distraught about young men singing pop music. Anyway, the Old man shouted at us as if we were committing some heinous crime. "HEY, HU-UGH-UMM, THAT'S ENOUGH OF THAT!" Instead of being salty I kinda just laughed and quieted down.

On a more serious not, the presence of the spirit is honestly very tangible. I feel myself being inclined to say and study certain things. The Korean language is coming fairly quickly, but I worry that I'll be so lost once I get to Busan. As a result of that worry, I've been making it a point to try to speak Korean whenever I can. The efforts are paying off. 

God asks us to do things for reasons. Even though I don't understand why I need to use a specific planner, follow certain rules, I trust in the fact that God will never try to dupe me. He's a merciful God who works on a system of justice. There's a lot of solace in knowing that.

Spencer: College sounds ridiculous. I want more stories about CoolGuy Cody and Black Panther Paul. I run into people here who have some really strange opinions and tendencies, but Its fine because we're all on the same team. We're united in purpose, so as weird as they are, it's easier to love them. Also, that's so rad that you met Court McGee (spelling?). Are you still massive? Everyone around here knows you as Elder Tuinei's Masculine Brother. Also, please continue to pray. It's such a blessing that we can communicate with God. Also, regarding your statements about faith. Maybe read Ether 3. I love how it states that The Brother of Jared no longer had faith in God, but had an absolute knowledge. Firm faith, or knowledge for lack of a better work, comes through the decision to believe and act accordingly. If you have a desire to learn, to know, to serve, to grow closer to God, he'll provide a way for you to do so. Keep me filled in with your life, Brother.

Brooke: I'm thoroughly jealous of you getting to perform. Shakespeare competition last year was soooo fun, and I know you'll enjoy it just as much this year. As you go through at HS, let the spirit guide you. Please don't take his companionship or the scriptures for granted as I did. 

Eliza: Thanks for the letter. Honestly, dude. I know exactly how you feel. All through out middle school and high school, I didn't feel like I fit in any where. The people my age annoyed me. If I can offer you any advice it's to love your peers despite there imperfections.  But good news, the people I felt like I was missing out on turned out to be in different cities and states everywhere. I just had to wait till we all wound up at the MTC together. Good vibes, little Sis.

Katie: I miss you tons, dude! You're ability to write is honestly growing so much! It's no surprise that you've been chosen to represent your class for that writer's conference. Keep developing your talents and hobbies. The ability to read and write (and play volleyball) will help you in the years to come.

Lilly: I'm sorry about your guinea pig. It's quite a shame that Bubba, or Sparks, or whatever his name is passed away. I'm glad you're not too broken up about it though. Stay fresh, young padawan and keep sending me letters and comics!

Dad: God answers prayers. Thanks for your letters. I read them aloud to the elder's in my district and we all get a good laugh. Thanks for serving your mission so many years ago. I know when you left it took a lot of faith, but I know we've been blessed because of it. You influenced my decision to serve and in turn I'll influence others in foreign lands. The gospel spreads, and spreads. I remember as a young kid, I was so touched when you would tell me about the tough times your family went through, but then later shared with me that Because I Have Been Given Much was your favorite hymn. Your willingness to recognize your blessings has really allowed me to do the same, and as a result I have such a strong desire to serve. I'm so proud to be your son.

Mom: I'm glad to hear that subbing is getting better. The importance of planning has been something that's kind of hit me hard recently. Thank you so much for all of the letters and packages. I hope you find some sleep. It takes me a minute to fall asleep here too. It also doesn't help that one of my roommates has the loudest snoring and worst smelling farts ever. I get to practice my quiet dignity all of the time! Even when I'm trying to go to bed! I love it! In all seriousness, I'm so glad to be here.

Auntie: Thank you so much for writing and sending me noodles. How is Steph doing? Also, I'm soooo jealous of you guys eating at China Garden. Cafeteria food just doesn't measure up :/

Ronnie: Are you and Sawyer going to date.

Well, that's my update for the week. The church is true. If we have a desire to learn, all we must do is ask God and he'll provide a way for us to know. PMG states that the ultimate expression of love to Christ is by sharing his Gospel. Because I love Christ, I fear no more and desire to be swallowed up in the belly of his work. 

With Love, 
Elder Samuel Loa Tuinei