It's easy to be down when it's dark!‏

Hey everybody!

How is everyone? I'm sure the weather is fantastic wherever you all are. It's amazing here! The sun is actually up today! It's been 3 weeks or so since I've seen the sun out. Bergen just rains, rains and rains. Yet one neat thing I've learned, is that the Spirit supports us despite our surroundings. "The world takes the man out of the slums, but Christ takes

Chillin' before bed

The Bergen Theater

Voss Cathedral

the slums out of the man." Those same supporting feelings are what got the pioneers across the plains. A purification and sanctification process not possible any where else. This mission is an amazing opportunity!

However the biggest problem when you're in an intense opportunity (such as a mission), is pride. If you think your desires will bring you the most happiness, think again. As we heard in the last conference (Elder Cook?), we will always be happier doing things the Lord's way. Therefore, by being humble (willing to submit to the Lord's will) you are therefore happy. This past week I thought I could do things my way, and felt the reproving result. The Lord chastens those He loves. I'm so loved! hehe

We took a train to Voss this past week. That was beautiful! Oh my word, the fjords here will knock your socks off. And I was also filled with gratitude for Bergen. Bergen is extremely warm compared to other areas in Norway right now. Voss was freezing! Luckily, as missionaries, we move around enough to keep us warm. Mom, thank you for the smart wool - they are deliciously warm!!

Another thing I have been learning is how to have fun despite everything around you. Being serious, sad and mopey is NOT what this Gospel is about! And sometimes it's hard to find something to laugh about! The gravity of the world seems to weigh down on you once in a while. Recognize that gift God has given you, and then open up to those around you. It really helps. One great experience was this past week we had an old man on the city train, really drunk, and he played the recorder for everyone! It was so sweet!

Speaking of talking with other people, I have really recognized a strong method Satan tries to stop this work of the Gospel from going forth: by keeping us quiet. Elder Holland this last conference talked about how the adversary tries to stop us from opening our mouths. This is literally applicable to the 

members of the church. When missionaries bring investigators, please talk with them and at least get their time and say "Glad to see you at church today!" When people don't feel accepted in our church something is seriously seriously wrong. For me, when I feel like being quiet and just sitting down being comfortable, I recognize that that is the adversary trying to stop my efforts in strengthening those around me. The same goes for each and every member of this church. And working through a language barrier is really uncomfortable and scary! I look forward to when I can easily understand others in this language. Everyone: please talk with each other - the adversary is trying to stop you from opening your mouth!! And if you feel insincere, open up to page 118 in Preach My Gospel.

Thank you all for your love and support! (Ken, your letter has gotten me through this week). Lara, I just received your second letter, I'll write a response next week! Hope you got my other letter. Your prayers are felt and appreciated. I love you all - open those mouths!


-Eldste Bryce Thomas Johnson

Mushroom, Mushroom