Provo MTC: First email home

Elder Spencer Walker entered the Provo MTC on August 3, 2016. Here are a few excerpts from the emails he sent home on his first preparation day.

To Greg:

The MTC is pretty fantastic so far.  I was very worried that either my companion or my district or both would be deadbeats, but they are all pretty committed to being obedient and working hard.  I have appreciated your counsel to remember to have fun.  I'm putting everything I have into studying the language and furthering my conversion, so it's good to have that reminder in my head to not run myself to death.  My companion is from Vista, California and he is a pretty cool guy, although we are not very much alike.  He's had a bunch of sisters and one(or two) brothers but I can definitely see the influence of the sisters on his personality.  I've rapidly progressed so far.  It's really cool.  I wrote in my journal that my biggest problems one day are non-existent the next.  My testimony of sincere, earnest, and diligent prayer is increasing.  I taught everyone in my district about the pronunciation of the double L in Argentina and our teacher appreciated the reminder.  She probably isn't used to teaching that specific way because usually the missionaries in a district are going to several different countries.  Thanks for your example Dad.  Life isn't easy, and I've appreciated watching you and Mom work so hard for us.  My main goal right now is to convert myself to Christ more fully by not worrying about me.  I would highly recommend a talk Elder Bednar gave in the MTC called Characters of Christ...

El Segundo(?) Elder Walker

To Mary Anne:

I have about 7 minutes left to email so I will try to get as much as possible.  I figured you and Dad read each others emails anyway so please read his to find out stuff about the district and such.  The other Elders and the two Hermanas in my district are pleasant to be around and can be pretty funny...

I miss you more and more each day, although I know that I'm doing what is right.  The talk I recommended to Dad in my letter to him is one I recommend for everyone.  It is helping my conversion toward Christ immensely.  Please let the family know I love them.

To Matthew:

Hi Matthew! I miss you so much!  Are you excited for school to start? I bet you'll learn lots of cool things! You can learn to read too! I can't wait to be able to read scriptures with you when we get back! Remember that if you are nice to everyone our family will be happier.  I love you Matthew!

Elder Walker