Mom and Dad,
As has become usual this week flew by. The expected and notable highlight was conference which, as missionaries, is both a huge break and a boost. Unfortunately it was all in spanish and it's just not the same. To not be able to hear the prophet and the apostles in the voices that we know so well was a bit of a bummer. Also the translation into spanish misses the eloquence and humor that makes it so engaging to listen to our church leaders. That all being said it was still a hugely uplifting experience. Also what exciting and sweeping changes! As missionaries we won't really notice the differences in full but going forward things will be different. What an exciting opportunity to refocus and rededicate ourselves to what it really means to be a latter day saint.
One of my favorite parts of conference was the remarks that pres. Nelson gave at the end of the priesthood session and especially his closing remarks. He has all the priesthood stand starting with deacons and going through all the levels of the priesthood until all were standing and then we all sang together. What a powerful experience! Unfortunately whomever chose the hymns hasn't read the spanish hymnbook recently because there is no translation for either of the hymns that we sang in that session for spanish. As a result the vocal participation in Mexico and latin america was likely very low during those musical numbers but the spirit was felt nonetheless.
Also, today marks one week in Independencia and this week I have had the chance to get to know my new companion, the members, and the area here. Elder Rodriguez and I have gotten along very well. We seem to have a lot in common and I have enjoyed our first week together. The other night we were talking about what music we like and he started singing parts of his favorite songs. I recognised many of them and joined in. By the end we were singing all the beatles songs that we knew together. Technically the beatles are not missionary approved but I thought it was awesome the way we were able to relate based on the music we love. This is one of the things I love about music, the way it can bring us together when we share it.
I have also come to know and love the area I am serving in a little more. Today we went for $1.50 haircuts at a barbershop where students train and learn to cut hair. It reminded me of dad one of the first times he went to get his haircut in provo. The fact that they were so cheap was great but it was also the best haircut that I have gotten here in Mexico, go figure. In our area as well there may or not be a costco. Its right on the border and I'm not sure whether it's ours or not but I think we will definitely be able to go.
I loved hearing from both of you about Brian's piece being played by the BYU orchestra. How exciting! I wish I could have been there to hear it, please congratulate him for me!
That's as much as I have time for this week but I love you guys so much and love hearing from you about how things are going. I especially loved your insights from conference. I hope all is well at home and look forward to hearing from you next week!
Love Isaac
