What a night!

It is translation night and oh, "what a night". Let me tell you about translating in Chuuk.

First, we don't have computers with the right programs needed to do the work correctly. Next, we only have one that actually lets us download on it so the team can do some work. Then we have technology that does not give the gift of dependability on this tiny island in the middle of the Pacific. Not to mention the fact that we don't know anything about the programs they want us to use and we need to learn them to teach the team. However, we absolutely love this group of people and know how important this work is. Our heart goes out to the man and woman in charge, Alberto and Susan, they deal with all the islands and we all have the same or similar problems.

Yes, I know the team is smiling and it looks like they are having a great time but that's because they just finished off a bag of Caramel Popcorn and well, the Chuukese people always smile. Not to mention they've been watching Sister Tiffany stress out and tell them she was going to go home to say bad words. They just laugh and laugh. They don't know that she really can come up with some goods words...

Anyway, this team works very hard. One of the most amazing things about them is how they serve one another. They are so happy to be part of the translation team and to partake of the spirit that they draw on. They all work together even though only one will get paid. They will share what little money they will make. This group is planning a temple trip as part of the translation team excursion. We have had the privilege of teaching them English, Temple Prep and now translation. A couple of them are not in the picture because one is still at school and the other is in the next room teaching Seminary. As the evening got later they were all together in the room with the others. The room is about the size of a walkin closet.

This is Marsine. This picture looks like she is stressed out but really she is not. She is focused on learning what Sister Tiffany has been teaching her. We have promised them that as long as we are here and as long as they are willing, we will do everything to help and teach them. Like we said before, we truly love this group of people and pray we can serve them well. In spite of the test and trials we are given. But we're not murmuring, honest.