November 21, 2016

Dear friends and family,

I am happy to say I have had yet another great and busy week! My companion and I had the opportunity to conduct exchanges this last week on both Wednesday and Friday, and it was awesome. It has been such a privilege to get to know such wonderful people while on my mission. 

Last Wednesday for example, Elder Antenorcruz (my companion at the beginning of the month who transferred) came to Cauayan for an English test. At the time he came into the office, Elder Saez and I were really focused on an assignment we had on the computer, but the second I heard Elder Antenorcruz's voice, I jumped up to greet him. As I talked with him, and heard how well he is doing in his new (and last) area I could not help but think of Alma's reunion with his friends in the Book of Mormon in which "Alma did rejoice exceedingly...[when] he met with the sons of Mosiah journeying towards the land of Zarahemla" (Alma 17:1-2).

I have come to realize throughout the course of the mission that you don't appreciate just how great an individual is until they (or you) leave. I have learned that rather than wait until it is too late to thank those who are around you for the influence they have in your life, that it is better to start early. As Thanksgiving day now approaches, I would like to thank all of you, particularly my family, for all of the wonderful influences you have had in my life. As I have pondered over the blessings of my life, I have been drawn to my knees as I have thought of all the Lord has given me. It is indeed a wonderful privilege to serve a mission, and to have all of the support that I do. 

As I write this note, I am reminded of one of my favorite scriptures which reads: "And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more" (D&C 78:19). I know as we analyze our lives this week and all of the blessings we have received, that we will not help but be filled with joy. And, as my recent experiences have proved, this process in itself will bring even more blessings.

Have a great week and Thanksgiving everyone!

Love,

Elder Pulley