September 1 2008, Elder Milner

Hola!

Well, I can not remember anyone's email for sure here except for Carli's and maybe Bryan's. So, Carli, if no one else gets this, it's up to you to do the spreading. Well, I had three guesses for mom's email, so hopefully one of them works.
Hola from the MTC! I arrived here last Wednesday, and got in at about 12:30. There were about 450 or so missionaries that came in the same day as I did. They had us and all of the family members come into the chapel room, and then after some words from a counselor in the MTC presidency, we watched the famous movie we all hear about, and then came the dreaded goodbye. I couldn't help but almost laugh as tears flowed and missionaries bawled. Thank you so much again mom and dad for sending me on the plane. Well, this is sounding more and more like my first letter to mom and dad and the siblings, but for the sake of those not viewing that letter, or not being able to read it, I will persevere. I was one of Seven missionaries to come from Canada, and one of the others was actually my friend from Edmonton, Elder Skinner.The food here is actually really good! I can't believe how many choices we get, and I like all the different drinks we can get. I was lucky enough to run into Elder Robbie Low and Sister Katie Burgess during my first meal at the MTC. I later would run into Elder Dave Champion as well. It was great to see them all again, well and happy.I do not think I was quite expecting the MTC to be like this. I have never worked so hard before in my life. Or prayed so much. It was really tough for the first couple days, but as I continue to grow it is getting easier and easier. Still hard work, but I am getting used to it and enjoying it more.
Today we were supposed to go to the temple, but it was closed for Labour Day. I was really disappointed.
Yesterday was by far the best day I have had at the MTC. We had District meeting, Priesthood meeting, and Sacrament meeting in the morning. The speakers and lessons were just amazing yesterday! It was so faith promoting to me, and it was a boost for me in my stay here at the MTC. My branch president gave a talk that I swear must have been directed exactly at me. It was incredible.
We had a fireside last night in the gym with all of the missionaries. What a sight. The speaker, Brother Robert P. Swenson, was really great. His testimony was unbelievable. We then had a night with the MTC president, President Boone. He truly is a funny man, with a firm testimony.
The Spanish is coming along. I really enjoy speaking the language, and we have been taught how to pray in spanish, greet someone in spanish and introduce the gospel, and how to give our testimonies in Spanish.
My companion at the MTC is Elder Yeates, from Utah. He is a companion who can feel the spirit, and is easy to talk with. My other roomates are Elder McBride from Arizona, and Elder Watkins from Las Vegas.Well, my time is running to a close. I really enjoy teaching and learning about the gospel. I testify that Jesus Christ really is our Savior, and that he really does love us. I know through experience of this. I have felt his Atonement work in my life, and it is real. I love this gospel, and the Book of Mormon. I know Joseph Smith is a true prophet. This gospel is true. Yo se que de Dios nos ama, y nosotros somos sus hijos.

I love you all, and hope to hear from you soon.

Elder Milner