Brothers

Dear Family and Friends,

Middle of July....Can you believe it? Next week will be Pioneer Day.  It's so significant to be in the place where the journey began.  It was not a short or easy journey. It actually took from February 4, 1846 to July 24, 1847.  Not just a 2 day car trip, although that can be a rough trip.  But it's hard to complain when we run out of snacks or the batteries on the devices quit compared to slogging through mud, or trudging through wind, rain, or snow and then going to bed hungry.  We are all quite spoiled.  I love the Saints.

Statue On the River

Elder Long's cousins and Aunt came to Nauvoo on Friday.  They didn't spend long but seemed to enjoy their visit and plan to come back when they can stay longer. The most amazing part of the visit was that Bob's Aunt Carole hooked up with her cousin's wife who still lives here in Nauvoo. This cousin Sylvia, has lived in Nauvoo since 1956 and had never been down to the sites or Visitor's Center. I met them first at the Visitor's Center and felt the apprehension she had in being there.  I didn't know any of them and prayed really hard that Elder Long would hurry to rescue me.  He was just finishing up from the oxen ride and went to change clothes. It was a very long 10 minutes of awkwardness.  After his arrival, we all went to the sites. The cousins loved every minute of it.   Elder Long sat on the bench with his Aunt and Sylvia and visited. He said they were both softened and they had a good visit.  Sylvia was surprised just how nice everything and everyone was.  I believe a "wall" tumbled down that day. I hope she will come again and tell her neighbors. It's amazing that prejudices are carried so long; by all of us too.  We need to do a better job at sharing what we have and respecting others. Oh, they also came to "Rendezvous" that evening and enjoyed the show very much. They wanted pictures with us after and gave hugs all around. Great missionary day!

"Rendezvous"

Another tender story that happened this week was when one of the teamster's sister came to visit him. He didn't know if she would be able to come because as a child she had polio and is confined to a wheelchair. When she showed up to get a wagon ride from him, this 68 year old teamster cradled  his older sister in his arms and carried her aboard the wagon.  So tender... so Christ-like. That's what a brother does.  It reminded me of when Katie was hurt in a soccer game and Billy carried her off the field. It takes special brothers to take care of their sisters.

We love each of you and appreciate your prayers and support.  There are many unsung heroes in letting us be here. We miss you but are doing our best to serve the Lord.  May He bless you.

Love,

 Sister and Elder Long