Following Up

Dear Family and Friends,

This week I have had So many things going on, and I am so amazed at the little things that I have learned. First we had two exchanges this week, and I realized during the first one how much more important it is to use time wisely and to have a plan. Our day was planned out and we had a really productive day, but I, being forgetful as I am sometimes, forgot to plan how to build a better relationship with my companion for a day. I felt bad afterward looking at how many different opportunities I would have had to support, encourage and compliment my companion for a day. I have decided that I need to be very much better at acting in the moment that I am needed no matter what the circumstance may be. I also heard a brief story of a young man of 15 who is a recent convert to the church. He was on a stake trek activity when in his tent a bunch of boys started talking about things that were not the most fit for any conversation. He was the only one who stood up and said anything about it. That was an inspiring and thought provoking instance of acting in the moment that he was needed. Usually we have only a few seconds to act on a prompting, and if we hesitate, or doubt the source or our own ability to complete it then it will be gone and the spirit will withdraw to allow us our agency. 

Also I would speak a little about humility. I felt like a failure for a little while this week. I admittedly felt that I did not know why I was here. That night and through the next morning as I prayed and listened to the spirit, I realized that there was one simple thing that I have neglected far too much and far too often in my life. It is especially important in missionary work. It wasn't because I was not doing the things that I should have been doing that I felt like a failure. I have been putting every ounce of my energy into this work. It was simply that I was not showing my care and concern to people by following up and asking what had come from the lessons or commitments extended. I have been expecting results in a manner best illustrated by an example. If you needed your car to be fixed, would you drop it off at the mechanic and tell him what needs to be fixed? Obviously. What would then happen if you never went back to check on your car or to ask if the fixing had been completed? Well quite simply you would not have your car. (Unless of course they were really good at following up and had the car delivered, but let's be honest how often does that happen?) So I am trying again, to learn the basics of missionary work. And also remembering how merciful and full of love and grace our Father and His Son Jesus Christ are and have been to me and all creation. 

I love you all so very much! Thanks for your letters, support, love and encouragement. 

Elder McGarry

​P1- The Zone at the Top of Mt. Franklin

P2- The Zone at the trail head for Mammoth Rock​