The Grind - 13 Mar 2018

Hello Everyone,

It has been a great time in Rabi since my last email. Being the go-to Kiribati speaking missionary has brought on a lot of challenges.  However, I have noticed how the hearts of the people in our area have changed.  Noticing that I am no longer with another missionary from Kiribati the people show love, interest, and respect.  I have noticed occasionally I am subtly tested on my Kiribati speaking ability by people I see day to day.  All I can do is try my best to prove I am not a fraud.

The work is a bit more difficult now.  I have realized how important it is to plan hard for each lesson.  This is the first time where I have led the whole lesson, being the only one able to speak the language.  It's hard to know when to turn to my companion to let him share while at the same time not putting him on the spot.  Now, after a couple below par lessons, we plan what each of us will share and rehearse beforehand, so rather than seeming like we aren't in rhythm we can flow well and try make sure everyone can feel the Spirit.  It's been a lot nicer like that and I can see a big difference in the receptiveness of our investigators. 

A lot of people have moved off the island that we considered our more serious investigators.  We have been trying to find more people that we would consider very serious in the lessons, but we are still working towards that. 

These past weeks I have grown very close with my companion Elder Latu, from Tonga.  He is my favorite companion thus far.  I haven't laughed as hard as I do in a long time.  He has also taught me so many ways to go about teaching the lessons. It is a blast and a blessing working with him.  He is a TRUE islander and its awesome.  He's always showing me some new island ways and its great.  

 

This past Monday we felt like doing a "Roast."  Like a luvu, but you roast the food over the fire instead of burying it.  Saturday we went out and bought a pig for about 45$ USD.  Monday morning we got everything prepared.  Afternoon came around and we were ready.  I had the honor of seeing the pig off into the next life.  I was NERVOUS, but it really wasn't that bad.  We prepped the pig then began the roast.  We attracted a very big crowd since they had never seen this method of cooking before.  After about 2 hours the pig was done and we began to feast.  We cut up a lot and gave it to neighbors and people who watched.  It was amazing.  The skin was the best part, so crunchy and tasty.  I know I will be doing this when I get home.  Need friends and family to try it.  

There is nothing quite like the island life.  I have come to love it and it will be a part of me the rest of my life.

Have a great week everyone,

Love,

Elder Richardson

 Low-tide reveals some cool places.

The clouds are crazy some days. The photo does no justice. 

Changing to our proselyte clothes post bike ride. 

Our roast with some of the members watching.  The crowd is off in the back left just outside the photo.

Feasting on the floor.  Some banana leaves as our plates.  Some fresh avocado and cassava for our sides

My companion Elder Latu.  Like a brother to me.