7 months and counting!

Dear family and friends,

The past 2 weeks have been a crazy mix of dedicated school work, spiritual experiences, and of course the kind of fun that only happens when you live in Provo.

Let me start by explaining some of the highlights from last week.  It was busy with homework and starting my job (I work at the English Second Language Writing Center on campus), but it was definitely an incredible week.

Brigham Young University (BYU) had the inauguration of our 13th President.  President Kevin J. Worthen is now president of BYU.  At the inauguration we were blessed to be in the presence of Presidents Monson, Eyring, and Uchtdorf, and Elders Nelson, Holland, and Oaks, among other general authorities.  And last Sunday was a regional conference in Utah in which Elder Scott spoke.  Later Sunday evening there was a CES fireside with Elder Christofferson.  For those of you who didn't keep track that is 8 apostles I was able to see in one week!  It was amazing.  I think a lot of people take living in Utah for granted, but that week really reminded me the blessing that it is.

It was also a fun week in which I was able to go to a Peruvian restaurant with 2 of my former mission companions and on Sunday after the fireside I went to a mission reunion with 40-50 people in attendance.  It was so fun to see everyone and reminisce about old times.

One of the coolest experiences of my week, though, was when I had the opportunity (and I got extra credit) to see a silent film called Ramona.  This was a big deal because this movie had been thought lost for the past 80+ years.  It was rediscovered in 2010 and they had spent the past 4 years restoring it.  The showing I went to was one of the first since it was lost and the very first time it had been shown in Utah since being restored.  I had never seen a silent film, but really enjoyed the experience.  They had someone playing the organ and he did an excellent job making the movie come more to life.  I loved it because it was such a neat and special experience.  I love doing new things and being able to participate in the history that is happening around me.  I am grateful for the resources and events that take place at BYU so that I may learn and do new things.

This week has been a little more mellow, but still very exciting.  The biggest event was probably the engagement of my roommate and dear friend. I have known her my whole life and am very happy for her.  To make a very long story short, I introduced them to each other but never thought they might actually get married.  But as I have watched them grow closer, I have seen how happy they are and have felt a small measure of joy and peace.  I am not trying to say that I have received revelation that they should marry-I cannot do that.  But, it is hard to see a best friend get married, in the sense that you know your friendship with them will change.  It is especially so in my case, because I will no longer be able to live with her.  So, I think I was feeling joy and peace to help me accept the changes that will come.  It is a tender moment to feel that way.

Today was the re-dedication of the Utah Ogden Temple.  The dedication was broadcast to us at the Marriott Center.  It was such a delight to be able to attend.  The spirit was so strong, and I was truly edified. I felt like a gained a deeper understanding of the importance of temples.  Or maybe it was just a much needed reminder.  I also learned about the importance of always having a valid temple recommend, even if you cannot go.  Lastly, I learned that it is possible to have spiritual experiences that rival the spirit of the Temple without having to be in the Temple.  And I believe that.  I don't think that means we don't have to go.  Sometimes we do need the Temple for that extra spiritual boost or to really receive the guidance we are seeking, but just as often, I think we can find those moments and receive those answers as we live righteously day to day.

This week I also hit 7 months since coming home.  It seems like I just got home yesterday.

I know this church is true.  I know it with all my heart.  I know God loves me and I know He loves each and every one of you.  I feel it so strongly!  It gives me so much joy and strength.  I am so grateful for my mission and the lessons I learned.

Con amor (with love),
S. Olsen