People

This morning we finished our lesson from our books and Joseph came to teach the kids Origami. It is such an incredible art. The kids enjoyed it immensely. I will say that when one is learning the art of Origami you cannot be a perfectionist. I cannot tell you how many times I folded and refolded the paper to get it right. I kept thinking the entire time that if I were Chinese and this was an art that I needed to know, I would be in big trouble. Joseph is absolutely amazing. He has such a heart for us and treats us with a respect that I wish others could learn. He is the one that we take on our field trips with all the kids. He has put his schedule, studying massage therapy, on hold for the past couple weeks to help us out.
So many of the Chinese students that we have met here are so incredibly valuable to us. We have had them show us Beijing, all the while never complaining when we can't make up our minds about where we want to go or what time to leave. Meeting them has been the highlight of my time here. We have met brothers and sisters and others that are seeking truth. They seem genuinely pleased to spend time with us and learn more about who we are. I really believe that Americans could learn a thing or two from them. I have never seen such an openness and love for others. They have hearts that are so great at loving and respecting others. I wish you all could meet them and hear their stories. I am going to have such a hard time saying good bye to them, not knowing if I will ever see them again, except maybe in heaven. My Heavenly Father has shown me through the Chinese people what it is like to love someone when we have absolutely nothing in common. I know I will treasure the time I have had here with the people of China. I am already excited about the possibility that I will have the opportunity to come back again some day.
We continue to do the work that has been given us. We have become like a family to the new families that are here with ELIC. Each day I wake up and rejoice that I am able to serve them another day. We find our strength in our Creator and He continues to be faithful. Continue to think about us and hold us up before the Throne. We spend time each day lifting those of you up that we love, to our Heavenly Father and are grateful to have warriors approaching the throne on our behalf.