I'm halfway there (to NY) and always livin' on a prayer (in my heart)

Three weeks here in the Provo MTC feels like forever, though each individual week flies by. Things are still sailing smoothly. I've gotten several letters and emails this week, and just picked up the package you sent (though I have yet to open it).

I went back to the Provo Temple last week as I said I would in my email, and am going again in a few hours. E-mail in the morning, temple in the afternoon. In the session last week, they showed one of the old videos from whenever the last set came out 20 or so years ago. Some parts were a bit cheesy to me, but the experience was overall the same. I enjoy feeling the peace that comes from temple attendance.

My companion, Elder Holloway, has taken to only using ASL to communicate on most days of the week. P-day's and Sundays are the exceptions. So, when he does in fact open his mouth on those days, everyone else is astonished. "You can talk?!" they ask in amazement, which is quite humorous for both he and I. I Use ASL most of the time, but usually talk with non-ASL missionaries and occasionally to the other ASL missionaries. When my companion signs to the non-ASL's, I usually interpret, which is good practice for me.

Tuesday night was probably one of my favorite experiences so far. The devotional was given by the Emeritus G.A. John H. Groberg, whose mission in Tonga is depicted in the movie "The Other Side of Heaven." He talked on how we express our testimony, and how vital it is to do so. Afterwards, all 22 ASL missionaries met with President Washburn, our Branch President, and had a remarkable testimony meeting on testimonies. I know that sharing testimony through word and through action can be powerful, and would suggest for the family to share their testimonies often with others not of our faith.

I have to keep pushing away the thoughts of going to New York and focusing on my studies now. I hope you continue to take hope from my correspondence.

The 22 of us are all going to similar missions; I believe 21 of us are headed to either New York, Arizona, or California, all having different missions within those states. The other one is going to Arkansas. We are all getting to know each other better, and I really enjoy spending time with them. 

Your letters, emails and prayers are very appreciated. I continue to pray for you. 

Elder Ryan Turner