Romania Means Family

Well, not a ton to report on from this week, to be honest. We did a TON of things...but it's stuff that is way too complicated to explain, or things that don't really apply to any of your lives. Pretty much, Elder Trottier and I are getting everything ready for our big move to Hungary. We don't have too much guidance from the higher-ups about this move, so we are the church on this one! Together with the office couple and the Hettingers, we are ensuring that all things are thoroughly thought out and prepared. We have a whole lot to do before the move in a month!!!!

Early morning P-day tennis with Fratele Lupan

Tennis is really a life-long sport. We need to enjoy every moment that our bodies are strong and healthy!

Still love it!

Right next to the National Stadium... sick!

We went to a member's mother's home to celebrate his birthday Saturday night. They live in a cute little village a little outside of Bucuresti; it is quite serene and relaxing. They have a good-sized courtyard and the whole family was there celebrating. 

Antonio is quite the Italian singer!

Birthday party for Lucian!

Elder Parrett wowing the crowd with his music... incredible!

I was so impressed, that although the family are not all members of the church, they have a great love for one another. It was so refreshing seeing the family members show love towards each other as they danced, ate, and laughed together. It made me think about how awesome it is that God has put us here on earth as families! It is so important that we continue to strengthen our relationship with our family members. 

The family unit in Romania is very important, and it isn't uncommon to see multi-generations staying in the same apartment. It also isn't common to see kids or parents move to a foreign country, in hopes to make more money and provide a better future for their kids, or themselves. Can you imagine doing either of these? Living in families teaches us how to love and make sacrifices- to turn outwards! When people don't understand that, problems come rolling in the front door. 

Caruta langa mine

Romania adeverata

After having a prompting to talk with a lady and her two little boys two consecutive times as we were walking to a good contacting spot in Piata Unirii, the third time I saw the little family, I got the guts to talk with them. After learning their story, I found out that they left Romania to America in hopes to give their kids a better education. After her husband not being able to find a job, and getting into a lot of debt, they were forced to move back. The really interesting thing about this is the fact that the mother said that she loved Romania, and supports this country with all her heart. She did it for the kids. I then told her that we have free English courses that her boys could go to. The mom seemed so thankful and excited. It was then when I realized how awesome it is that in the church we have opportunities to grow both temporally and spiritually.

The Suit Squad

I know that God wants each one of his children to find happiness. There is a reason that we were born in our respective countries, and a reason that we are placed in our families...that is why the gospel is so important! Wherever we are and whatever our circumstance, we can find peace, love, and joy by living the teaching of Jesus Christ. 

My view from my apartment...we are spoiled!

Alejandro. The newest member of Mihai Bravu!

I love Romania. Sure it has it's quirks, and the infrastructure is crappy, but I have met incredible people, who are rock-solid friends, and incredible examples of making sacrifices. Romania has taught me how to be a real man. Romania has taught me how to really love. Romania has taught me how to be thankful for what you have. Romania is my home away from home!

Love,

Elder Ditto