Elder Corey Dobbs: District Conference in León

So about halfway through last week we were informed that we would be going to the temple this week and that our p-day would be changed as well, and that we'd be spending a few days in Madrid. After a few days of scrambling trying to change our plans, we're finally here. This morning we went to the temple, which isn't something us missionaries in Salamanca get to do too often because we're farther away. Then, as a zone, we played some intense games of kickball and foursquare in the church gym. If you don't know what foursquare is, don't worry, because I hadn't seen anyone play it since 4th grade. But some missionaries can make any sport into the most competitive game ever and it was interesting, to say the least. It was fun though. We'll be staying in Madrid until tomorrow night for exchanges with the zone leaders, but more on that next week.
In other news, happy mother's day to everyone whether you're a mother or you've ever helped a mother out! Here, mother's day was last Sunday and as we went around talking to people on the street I started off almost every conversation where there was a woman involved with happy mothers day. We mostly talked to middle aged women and families that day, and it was fun. The only awkward part was when one of the women said she didn't have any kids but using my witty skills I told her that she deserved it for helping out some kids at some point in her life. She replied with "yeah, I have nieces and nephews." Just another problem solved by Elder Dobbs in the life of a missionary.
Anyway this week we went to church in León, a city about 2 1/2 hrs north. There was a district conference there, which is the equivalent of stake conference. The district rented out a conference room in a fancy hotel which was cool. Our branch rented a bus and we all left at 6am to make sure we got there early. Half the people slept on the way there and back. It was really good though. The district presidency and our mission president and his wife and a few other people spoke. Some of the things they talked about were going to the temple regularly and participating more in family history work. It's a big sacrifice for these people because it's expensive to go to Madrid, whether you have a car or not, but it was cool to hear people there speak about it and testify of its importance. President Pack, our mission president who presides over the district, said something like, "the Lord wants this district to be a stake, and to have its own patriarch and more priesthood keys, but there's still some work to do. What you all can do is make regular temple attendance a part of your life." I was able to help in the conference by playing the piano for all the hymns. Normally a member in the Salamanca branch, Tiago, does it, but he asked me to because he prefers singing.
Last thing. So this last week and a half has been my first time as district leader and I've given two district meetings already. I'm starting out pretty shaky and nervous but that's just making it easier to depend on the Lord. I've definitely seen his help in my preparation, because I've been seeking it even more. I've felt the spirit guiding me and it's a great learning experience for me. Humility really is something important for coming before the Lord. When we do our part and leave the rest to the Lord, he provides miracles.
I love you all, and May the 4th be with you!
-Elder Dobbs