Golfing and a good attitude

9.5.11
Fleming Island, FL

Dear Family~

I'm glad to say that we had a pretty good week this past week. We had one of the families we've been working with be reactivated yesterday and they seem happier than ever. Little by little they are coming around and it is very rewarding to see them come together and receive a greater portion ofthe gospel in their lives.

Today we went to a stakewide activity and we had some food and whatnot, but I spent the majority of my time going around talking to everyone I knew. I wasn't too hungry so I skipped out on most of the food. I was glad to see so many familiar faces, nevertheless, there were still some names I couldn't remember, but I guess after such a long time it is to be expected that I'd forget a few names here and there.

The golf game was a lot of fun. I shot a 53, which is okay for not having played golf since I left. I only lost a couple golf balls too! We played nine holes total and afterward we went to dinner. I wanted to go golfing each day after we finished it was so much fun... but I had to put it out of my mind so I could stay concentrated. I learned quite a bit about myself as we played, however. I realized that the mechanics of a golf swing are important, but after having not played in so long and then jumping right into a game, you learn quickly that golf is much more mental than it ever was physical. My very first swing I completely missed the ball... but I smiled and laughed, then I got back up with a nice and easy swing and hit a solid drive right down the middle of the fairway. Most all of my shots were fairly solid. The biggest thing I noticed was that when I allowed my mind to push out any negative influence that tried to enter in, and only focus on the purpose of the game, and the fun it is, I played exceptionally well! I think that is how life goes... you kick out the negative thoughts, and you focus on the good and positive ones, and you'll always be successful (even if you fail).

Well, I look forward to the next couple of week. We should get a lot of work done and by the time it is all over, I think I will be about ready to drop dead, exhausted! But that is what we want... "it ain't over till it's over".

I love each of you and wish you a great week! Thank you for all the Happy Birthday's! I'll talk to you next week!

Love~
Austin