new life

After 3 months of living in Australia we are starting to see some greenery.  It had become so brown through the drought and combining that with smoke filled skies it was rather dismal.  Now, with cooler temperatures and rainfall, the hills and bush are showing new life.   We went for a hike around, and up, Black Mountain.  We didn't completely circle the mountain but we went on several trails before ascending to the top.  Quite a view of the area.  Canberra was completely master planned and laid out for communities, roads, mass transit, schools and businesses. The view from the top of Black Mountain really was beautiful.  We're going to have to go up for a dinner in the restaurant that is up in the tower.  There are some similarities with the Space Needle in  Seattle but I will always feel that the Space Needle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world.  So many memories in the great Northwest.

Last night was Institute and there were a few new students and a few that were missing from the first week.  They are very willing to participate and share their observations.  There is a whiteboard in the classroom and I wish that it was larger so that I could keep their responses up.  I enjoy putting their answers on the board but we go through so many conversations and verses of scripture that I need to erase after each list.  Minor problem.  My main objective in teaching about Lehi's dream and the revelations that he received is to discuss how people respond to divine conversation.  We spent a bit of time in Alma 37 and focused on the words, "Shadow" and "Type".  Until we are able to hear the story with our hearts and then "liken them" unto us, it will simply remain a story.  These wonderful young adults have to hear for themselves.  I love them.

Tomorrow is District Council and then there is a broadcast, from Sydney, tomorrow evening at the Lyneham church.  All  adult members of the Stake are invited and I hope there is a good showing.  The importance of gathering together is sometimes more important than the message.  There is such strength when the saints sit shoulder to shoulder.

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