A Job Half Done

Dear All,

That's right, today marks nine months of missionary service for us. We have had a marvelous experience thus far but feel like there is much to be done and not enough time to do it. The good thing is that we have learned much more about what is expected of us and, hopefully, have become better able to accomplish it. We look forward to what the future will bring to us as two of the Lord's weak but willing missionaries.  

This past week we were thrilled to visit with the Orme family, Kelley, Denise, Spencer and Natalie, who were passing through Port Elizabeth on vacation. It was the first time we have seen anyone from home and it was a real treat. They are special friends and we love them. A bonus was that they were couriers of special treats from home (as Kelley often is to missionaries).

They brought us corn tortillas, chocolate chips, and Crisco. None of these items are available here, at least not of the quality of which we are accustomed. Thanks Ormes!!     

Almost every companionship in the mission was affected by transfers this past week and we said a sad goodbye to nearly half of those missionaries with whom we serve in our slice of heaven. The good news is that those who arrived are just as awesome as those who left. As before, it will be a pleasure becoming acquainted with each one and benefiting from their positive influence. We now serve with Elders from South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Taiwan, England, Ireland, Germany, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Mexico, and America. Even with the vast differences in their cultures, education, economic status, and family support, they are fully united in one eternally important cause. They love the work and are fully united in it, they love each other, and they love the Lord. They even have a little love left over for the two of us, and that is one of the great joys of our service. 

Motherwell Branch is still meeting in the tent...and it's getting cold! We'll keep you posted.

We greatly miss friends and family at home, but we're healthy and happy while doing our small part to bring salvation and eternal life to our brothers and sisters of South Africa. 

All our love,

Elder and Sister Watson

The picture above is from our last time with President and Sister Merrill. We will miss them greatly!!

We love the Ormes and it was such a pleasure spending some time with them.    

 This is the Philander family. Mom, dad and the two oldest were just baptized. Sister Philander said that she was going through a particularly difficult time in her life and she felt that there must be something better.  She said when she saw these two young men walking down the street in their white shirts and dark pants she knew immediately that they held the answer to her questions. She accepted the gospel right away but Brother Philander took a little while longer.  He had a very strong addiction to cigarettes and reported  to us later that he fasted for three days in order to overcome it. They are beautiful and amazing people! Looking at them it is difficult to believe that they live in a small "shack" with no electricity or running water. We wish everyone could meet this family and benefit from their strong faith and love.

This wasn't meant to be a work of art, but it is. Love the Dutch door on it, which provides good light when your reading. 😉