Hey everyone,

It has been a busy week. We have had interviews with the zone leaders and President Howard. President Howard said there is a really good chance I'm staying here and will get a follow-up trainer. It's not set in stone but there's a really good chance that's what will happen. He also gave me permission to have a little keyboard to practice piano on. There isn't a lot of time to practice but 30 minutes every night before bed is good enough for me. It's really nice ending the day with a few hymns.

My companion and I went to a new part of our area this week. No one has been there in a long time. The first house we went to I started talking to him in Tagalog then my companion said to me "He is speaking English." I didn't even realize it; I tried to talk in English but I didn't know what to say. In Tagalog, I say "Maarri Makipagkilala" (can we have the ability to meet you) but that makes no sense in English so I was kind of lost for words; It was pretty funny. He is German but has lived in the Philippines for about 15 years. I've met so many people that aren't Filipino.

We also went to the Temple today; It was great! I love going to the Temple and forgetting about everything else for a while. It's so calming having the spirit and being in the house of the Lord. I'm so grateful to be a member of this true church. I see blessings from this gospel everyday. It's really sad seeing people without it. It has brought so much joy to my life.

Thank you all for your letters; I love you all.

Love, Elder Smith