Grady is safe after 9.0 Earthquake hits Japan

On March 11 Japan experienced a huge 9.0 earthquake followed by a devastating tsunami. The earthquake was near Sendai and thousands of people lost their homes. A nuclear power plant near the earthquake was damaged by the tsunami and the workers are struggling to stablize the plant so that radiation does not leak. We heard about the earthquake soon after it happened and I realized that it was about 400 miles away from Kobe, so I knew Grady was safe--but it has been a difficult couple of days, wondering what is going on and waiting to hear from him.

March 13, 2011
Konnchiwa! Hello everyone! I am glad to know that you know that I am safe. The earthquake was devastating and it is really weird to be in the country that it took place in. Whenever an earthquake or natural disaster happened I always felt for the people but this time is different. I speak these people's language and I know them very well. I love them and it is almost as if I am Japanese citizen. Pres. McIntyre showed us some footage on CNN and I was way surprised. You probably know more than me because I can't watch TV but I get to ask people all day long about it. I am getting an up close feel of what is happening. The earthquake hasn't affected me very much or what I do everyday. I still go out averyday all day and find people that want to come to church. Natural disasters really humble people. This is probably the biggest difference I have noticed. The people in Japan are thinking more about the purpose of life and God. It has been really interesting asking people about the earthquake and hearing their responses. They all admit that death isn't our choice and that something bigger than them might be out there. It reminds about the king in Alma 22. He believed that a higher power existed but he didn't know its name or what form it was in. These people are really similiar and I have really felt the spirit testifying to them that Jesus Christ suffered for them and through his plan all those people that died will be ressurected. There are a couple Japanese missionaries in the mission that have family living right where the tsunami took place. All but one has contacted their families. I pray everyday for them. The Gospel is true and I love it. As for the investigators in Kobe, they are doing well. 4 people are preparing for baptism. 3 are Chinese and 1 is Japanese. I love them and I am excited to help them all that I can. Last night I met a Chinese guy named Sunchen at the church. We taught about baptism and that we become clean through it. He wanted to be clean because he has a lot of regret in his life and he accepted to be baptized. I felt the spirit so strong during the lesson while testifying about baptism. I can't wait for his baptism. I love you guys and have a great week!