Tough Times - 16 Jul 2017

Hello Everyone,
This has been a very tough week.  Last Monday I received a call from my Mission President that I had lost a member of my family.  He told me there was a email waiting from my Mom with the news.  Very sad to say that last week I lost one of my Best Friends, my Brother Jamie.  Really didn't know what to think.  The first couple days I was numb.  I couldn't focus in lessons, couldn't study and I couldn't grasp the idea that I wouldn't be coming home to my Brother.  I am still speechless over the matter.  I want everyone to know what a funny, loving and great Brother Jamie was to me.  Its not the same not being able to write and talk to him every week.
Nothing has ever happened to me like that in my life.  Hope it never will again.  However, it has really made things a matter of "practice what you preach."  I know I will see my Brother again one day, and for now he is dwelling in a better place and state of mind than he was in.
We had Zone Conference this week and I had the pleasure of meeting the new Mission President, President Higgins.  Great Man.  He has really been there to support me in this tough time, and has given me a lot of doctrine to lean on in this state of devastation.  I really respect the way he handled everything and spoke with my family.  I look forward to being under his direction for the remainder of my mission. 
Not much to talk about this week.  My head has been in another place and I just don't feel right talking about other things in this email.  I am doing better but still having a tough time coming to the realization of our family's loss. 
Tomorrow I will be leading all our lessons for the week.  I will be doing majority of the Fijian speaking for all of our encounters.  Was hard to prepare for that this past week, but I am confident that I will do well. 
I love my Mom.  I love my Dad.  I love my Sisters and Brothers.  I love my Uncle Paul and my Grandpa.   I am grateful for this family I have. I want to thank everyone for all the support that has been given to me.
Have a great week,
Love,
Elder Richardson


Our oldest and very beloved brother, Jamie



Navolau #1 Junior Rugby Squad.  With their Captain.

Weekly drive to Lautoka. 

Kids climbing for coconuts.

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