First week at the MTC

From letter dated 4 February, 2009

Goededag!
Well, I've been at the MTC for a whole week now & we are no longer the "youngest" in the MTC. It has absolutely FLOWN by.
As I mentioned briefly in my letter last week, I'm a solo sister. So basically I am companions with two sisters who have class in the same hall as I do - so we are in the same residence room, walk to class together, go to class with the Elders (they are also solo sisters) and then the Elders make sure we are with each other at night to walk back to the residence together. It is definitely not what I was expecting, but it's been a definite learning experience. The first couple of days were a little rough as the Elders and I were trying to get used to the situation - but my Elders are fabulous! I'm so blessed & I'm learning a lot from them. The Elders are super respectful & have really taken the added responsibility of having a solo sister as well. They take my tray at meals, they wait around to make sure I'm always with either them or my companions, and they stand when I walk in the room (by commission of the branch president)... This experience is already teaching me many things. As you know, I'm not very good about accepting service from others - but now I'm learning humility & patience (mostly with myself).
The first day here, we got thrown right into the language. I'm already praying in Dutch (very simple prayers, mind you) and bearing my testimony in Dutch. It is amazing to see how the gift of tongues really works.
The spirit at the MTC is AMAZING! I love it here & am learning SO much! I've learned a lot about myself & my relationship with the Savior. ... I am working on understanding more about how the spirit speaks to me...
... We've had some good talks as a district, and it has been neat to see the Elders open up about their feelings & experiences. After the devotional we talked about how we all needed that message. What can I say? My Elders are great! (Even though it may be interesting to spend 12+ hours a day with Elders). Good thing I have my companions too. I'll tell you more about them later.
I've already grown in a lot of ways & have a lot more to learn! ... Remember how much Heavenly Father loves you. ... Christ truly is our Savior & he loves us so much! He truly will guide us. He knows your name. I testify that is true. You are important and there truly is a plan for you.
Doie!
Zuster Chantelle Fowler