The Holla 2-28-09

The Rolla hollaIt seems to me that one of the greatest evils of our time isn´t so much hatred, or malice, but the nagging, destructive, all-to-common carelessness that weasels its way into all-too-many hearts. It says, ¨I don´t care, ¨ either because ¨my mission is almost over, ¨ or ¨it´s not my fault,¨ or ¨I´m just Jr. Companion,¨ or whatever the inadequate excuse may be. With all of them, the subtle subtitle, translates into mediocrity and less that a fullness of joy. I know, because I too am often guilty of it. But how great are those times when we leave the excuses behind, level with our shortcomings, and watch as a loving Heavenly Father empowers us to overcome them!The First week in the office! Even though my coming here was unexpected and unplanned by those of us that aren´t omnipotent, He that is was just watching the cards fall as he knew they would and wanted them to all along. Now I´m planning weddings, car inspections, cell phone swaps, preparations for apostolic visits, all on the phone, and whats more, in SPANISH! Haha, I think I´ve written that several times, but each new step surprises me with how capable my Father in Heaven makes me!Like a lighting bolt, the reality and love of my Father in Heaven struck my heart as I read in my journal and recognized one of his tender mercies. The morning before the big move, without knowing anything about the situation I recorded the following in my journal: ¨My dream last night: [My comp] was going home for having done something wrong and was crying or something.¨ As I stood in that very situation less than 24 hours later, I had forgotten about the dream, until I read those words in my journal. As I began writing this Holla I felt strongly prompted to share it, though I would generally guard it as deeply personal. There is NO reason whatsever that I can think of for my Father in Heaven to reveal that to me, except to remind me: ¨Kyler, my son, I really AM here and I love you.¨Well, we have wrapped up the work in Aratiri. The regular office schedule is to work in the office from 830 to 430 and then go out to the area (which is called Mburucuya, or Boo-Roo-Koo-Jaw) until 930. We strive to keep that schedule, but often find ourselves with urgent projects or unfinished tasks. The high pace, exciting nature of the work here in the office, gives me a change to refine even further my ability to plan and set goals. I am honestly loving the work and always striving to do a better job.I love you all so much! I haven´t taken any pictures yet here in the office, but am going to start making sure to do so. They won´t be in the jungles of Paraguay, but they will still be fun to remember! With all my love!Elder McCarty