Hermana Bryson's Letter about Jesse Christensen

   Well this week, we had a terrible tragedy in the Steamboat Springs ward. Jesse Christensen one of the members we live with passed away on Valentines Day. He was snowmobiling with his friend and an avalanche came and he didn't make it. It was a sad sad time for the ward this week. But it amazed me how much the LDS community supports the ones they love. My goodness the Christensen family received so much food and love and service. It goes to show that everyone cares. And you always have family in every ward. Honestly it was rough this week, usually I sugarcoat my emails with all the highlights but this week, theres no beating around the bush here. IT was really really tough. But the thing that got me through this week was seeing how much my testimony of the Plan of Salvation was strengthened and fortified this week. I know without a shadow of a doubt that our Heavenly Father has a plan in everything for us. He lifts us when were down, he comforts us when were sad or lonely, and he knows whats best for us and the right times for everything. He knows that everything will always always work out eventually. In this plan he promises us peace and joy, and love. More than you could ever imagine. With this knowledge, we know that one day we will see our loved ones again, and that they are in a better place. One where they are experiencing a state of peace and love. How beautiful is that plan ?? 

        A return missionary told us this week that she didn't understand why she was devastated as she was driving to Colorado. She asked herself, "Do I not have a testimony of the Plan of Salvation??" And she said the most profound statement. She said that she realized that the Plan of Salvation gives us hope, but it doesn't take away the pain. Even the Savior, someone perfect had to ask for the pain to be removed. I know that Hermana Tams and I were called to this area at this time to be a strength and a light to this ward, and especially to this family. We have been serving them by cleaning their house every day, and making sure we stay on top of anything they need. Its been a great opportunity to see such strong members of the ward. The Christensen's are true example of the Savior. Ive never met such funny and loyal and loving people. They bring everyone in an make everyone feel welcome. And Brother Christensen had the kind of humor that made everyone die laughing. He had the type of spirit that made you feel at home the second you walked through the door. And wow, the way he looked at his wife and talked about her made everyone feel their love story. Sister Christensen is so strong. She is handling this like a pro, and facing it with so much grace. She has the grace and elegancy of Emma Smith. What a true power house. 

     The night before he passed away, we over at their house teaching them about how trials will strengthen us, and make us stronger. And that when we do whats right, and ask for guidance the Lord will make our trials light so that we cant even feel them upon our backs. Who knew the next day would be a trial of a lifetime? That night, Brother Christensen wasn't feeling so good so he went upstairs and standing in his long johns, he leans over the banister and says, "Goodnight ladiessss." That was the last memory we shared with his son Colter. That was our Brother Christensen, always the life of the party. We will never forget him. His cowboy legacy lives on, and he has touched many many lives. I think there was like 400 people at his funeral. He touched someone where ever he went. The coolest part of this is that we were able to focus on everyone this week, not ourselves.  And we received so many blessings for being strong in a crazy time like this. Its so amazing knowing that Brother Christensen continues to do missionary work even on the other side. He has had so many newspaper articles and stories, and talks at his funeral that blessed and touched so many non members. That is a true blessing, and a true miracle. I love Steamboat, and the opportunity to share with others this beautiful message. I feel sad for those that don't have this knowledge.

Funny story, he had a tribute concert (Since he was musically talented) And we got permission to go for a little bit. But it was at a bar (sort of) and everyone was laughing that there was two sister missionaries at a bar. But what better way to share the gospel than to those that need help with the word of wisdom right?? Will forever be a great story to tell. Thank you all, I love you and I hope you have a great week!!!

Con Amor,

Hermana Bryson ​