So, I have officially been in the Bronx for 1 week. It's a totally different place than anywhere I have ever been before. There are so many people here, it's insane, and most of them are not the least bit interested. But the vast amount of rejection makes the successes so much sweeter. We have had so much success this last week. Through faith, determination, and hard work, we have been able to meet new family members, talk to some inactive church members, and really bring people closer to Christ. The people in the ward are amazing! There is so much love at church, it's just really hard to get people there. They have a lot of excuses; they're too busy, they want to relax on Sundays, they don't have enough money to ride the train or bus. Some of these are definitely true, but for a lot of them, it's truly just an excuse.
My trainer, Elder Fuller, is awesome!!! He's from Sandy, UT, he's been in the area for a long time, he really knows his stuff and he loves the people. I couldn't ask for a better trainer.
The people here are unique. When I have a better chance to organize my thoughts, I may write more about them, but I love them, and I love how they challenge me to learn more and to be better.
So, for P-day this week, I had the opportunity to go to a Yankees game with the mission! Around 200 missionaries at the game, it was awesome!!! The Yankees won by 2 (6-4) against the Cleveland Indians.
This week I have really had the opportunity to see how the Atonement affects peoples lives. If you read my post on the Atonement, it's true, and having the opportunity to see real people suffering and trying to apply the Atonement in their lives is a huge blessing. I can't even begin to express the joy that I feel when someone decides to turn their heart back to Christ and repent and feel of his redeeming love.
I'm healthy and happy. I love being here. I hope you're all doing well. Write me sometime let me know how it's going.
I love you all,
An Uncommon Elder
Elder Timothy Scott Ryan