Gratitude

      It rained today in Pohnpei, rain like you have never seen or could imagine, it was beautiful. After the rain ended we had some spare time so we went for a ride out to Nett (netch). The rivers were about 4 times there normal size and there was water everywhere. Houses were full of water, mud and jungle that had come down with the water. yet the people were not even phased by it. They were just cleaning up, smiling, laughing. Just a normal day in Pohnpei.
      As I saw the devastation that these people live with each day, I was very humbled and a question came to mind. What did I do in the pre-existance that warranted me being born where I was born, living where I have lived all my life and having the Gospel. What did I do differently, that these people did or did not do that put them here and me where I come from.
     To be honest, I don't know if I could live in what most of these people call homes. to sweep out mud and water everyday, because it rains everyday. to cook over an open fire everyday, to not have indoor plumbing, to be truly at the mercy of the jungle and the weather each day. To not know how you would feed your families some days. Who decided that I got to live in America with all the luxuries and these amazing people got to come to Pohnpei? Who decided that I got to have the Gospel of Jesus Christ as part of my life and they did not?
     What a great responsibility comes with that gift. For those of us that have been so blessed, maybe we should be more grateful. Tonight when you say your prayers, make sure you Thank your wonderful, loving Heavenly Father that you live where you do and if you have been blessed to have the Gospel of Jesus Christ, give Thanks and share it with those that were not so blessed. I am absolutely sure we will be held accountable for each blessing we have been given and what we did with it to make someone Else's life better.
     Suddenly having a small room to live in while we wait for an apartment is not bad at all, it is a blessing that I am very grateful for. Suddenly leaving my precious family to come here and share the gospel is not a sacrifice at all, because what we have to share will bless the lives of these people and all people more then any amount of money or "things" we could give them.

Some of the beautiful Pohnpein Children ( car belongs to a tourist)

One of the Island water buffalo and his owners son, they use them for hauling etc.

     I know this Gospel is true, if I didn't I would not be here. I know we have a Heavenly Father and Savior, Jesus Christ, who love us very much. I am grateful I know that and can share that with my brothers and sisters in Pohnpei.