Nutella is officially the greatest thing 12/27/11

This e-mail came two days after we had a chance to talk to Brett.  He sounded so very happy and, for those who know him well, he told the best stories.  He had us laughing so hard and the smiles lingered into the night.  It was so good to hear his voice.  Here is what he says:

Man, I miss you guys so much! Its interesting, because like Jared said, we as missionaries are always telling people of how families are central in God´s Plan, and how the Gospel blesses families. I truly can testify of how much I love you guys, and how my family is the most important thing in my life.

I love you all

Tell Grandma that I love her and my companion is super grateful for the stocking. He was so confused when I handed him the stocking, and all day yesterday when we were walking around he was practicing to say in English ¨Thank you Grandma for the present¨ but when I called he chickened out, but that's okay.

Nutella is officially the greatest thing in the world. It makes everything taste better. Holy cow, I´m in heaven.

I don´t know why I´m so happy, but I am, and I love my life. As I reflected on it today, I realized that your attitude and outlook on life really is what changes whether or not you are happy. Some inspiring talks given by General Authorities and the example of Joseph Smith and the other saints really helped me understand the purpose of suffering and how with the right attitude, our burdens really can become light. It never was or ever will be that our lives will be easy or simple, but it is the ability to cope with our problems and to have them slide off of our backs. Its the peace the spirit brings, and only the spirit can bring it. The Holy Ghost is like the force in StarWars, it guides us, and is the power behind the miracles, and it gives us the knowledge that brings peace to our souls. Wow, I´m a nerd, and yes, I just made a connection between StarWars and the Gospel.

I love you all and I hope you guys have a Happy New Year!

Elder Hansen