#80- RETURN WITH HONOR!

 Dearest family and friends, the time has come... two years of serving the people of Indiana with all of my heart and strength! It has been the most rewarding experience I have ever had. There is no more compelling work than this. I am amazed at the love I feel for the people and for my Savior. I know that God the Eternal Father is the Father of our spirits. Jesus the Christ lives, speaks, and leads His church. My favorite lesson to teach is the Restoration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I love it so much because of the power it brings. I know it is true, time and time again that familiar spirit touches my heart and it rings true for me and those around me. It has given me motivation every day to talk with as many people about it as I can. Our Father in Heaven and Jesus Christ really did appeared to Joseph Smith. The priesthood keys have been restored! I testify the Book of Mormon is the word of God. I know it. It will draw you closer to God than any other book. It sure has done that for me and every single person who I have worked with.

Neal A. Maxwell once said, "The submission of one’s will is really the only uniquely personal thing we have to place on God’s altar. It is a hard doctrine, but it is true. The many other things we give to God, however nice that may be of us, are actually things He has already given us, and He has loaned them to us. But when we begin to submit ourselves by letting our wills be swallowed up in God’s will, then we are really giving something to Him." The Lord has done so much more with me than I could ever have done on my own. Every good thing that has happened in my life from Him.

The area will be left in good hands. Robert, Guy, Desiree, Jasmine, and Rodney will be entering the waters of baptism very very soon. I had hoped before I left but it must be in the Lords timing not my own. 

Keys to success

1. FEAR NO MAN 

2. Follow the Spirit

3. Learn to love, love to learn

4. Never get comfortable

Fun Facts

1. I left July 29 two years ago, so on the 29th we burned our suits!

2. I have gotten very good at smelling out weed and alcohol :)

3. Every time I have been in a smoke filled room the last 2 years (which is almost a daily occurrence) I have prayed that I will not get cancer, so I am covered.

4. I have had a total of 11 companions and 5 areas. 

5. Sad to say goodbye to those here, but excited to see my family Wednesday!

God Speed,

Elder Coon

Dad - it really does feel good to have put my heart and soul into the work for a whole 2 years. the future has so much in store! i will be excited to see all of the family and friends! 

interviews went great with president. he talked a lot about dating, home teaching, college. i will have to tell you in person more of what he said. one thing about dating is to "keep it in the fire ring" haha in other words stay in the bounds of dating. pretty good advice! 

thank you for the letters every week, i am always ecxited to hear your week and insights.

cont wait to see you in a few daays!!