E-mail dated 10/27/08 - Yikes! Malaria!!

Hello Family,

I'm glad to hear that your week went by fast. Mine on the other hand went by very slow. I'm not going to lie but last week was crappy. But please don't worry about me (MOM). Last week Saturday I got Malaria (gasp gasp). Let me tell you that it is not fun to get. I didn't recover as quick as i should have and we concluded that I also had a bacteria infection. Last week was very tiring and I didn't take the time to rest that I needed. Which only made the problem worse. I learned from my mistake and on Saturday I took the whole day to rest from my labors. I feel so much better now and you really have no need to worry. But it really made me even more grateful for many things, as if coming to africa hasn't done that enough already. I am really grateful for my health, especially now that it is better. I was also very humbled as to how important it is to have you body feeling well to be more spiritual. Reminded me of the promise at the end of the word of wisdom. nothing is temporal to God, all things are spiritual. But please don't fret, All is well with me now.

I have been studying to doctrine and covenants and I read something yesterday that was really good. Look at the beginning of D&C 58 about adversity. I've also learned so much a bout the history of the church while studying. Man it would have been terrible to be an early saint. They went through so much. Like before the whole walking across the plains thing. I got to watch the last session of conference and half of the first session. (in that order, don't ask me why) I absolutely loved them. I can't wait to get the ensign to read all the words of the prophets, seers, and revelators. My favorite (so far) was the talk by Neil L Anderson. It was about not knowing everything but knowing enough. Wow that story about the deaf child was amazing.

Questions: Yes I have a zone conference this week. Tell Sherrie I recieved her package last week and thank you very much. Put something for Elder Kpodi inside. Just put whatever and I'll share it with everyone. The rain is slowly going away (which means its hotter than . . .. .well you know)

(1) It is hot at night. Expecially when the power is gone because the fan can't work without power. (2) Pizza might be the thing I want most when I get back (3) I can speak Krio, but I only do it to those that can't understand English (4) I'll let you know how they celebrate Christmas here in a couple months from now.

Have a good one

Elder Degen