Constanza, Dominican Republic

For the past 3 months, Dallin has been serving in Constanza in the Dominican Republic with Elder Leemaster from Georgia. Today he left! I can't believe he's already on to his second area and second companion. He has loved Constanza. It's the highest altitude in all the island. The landscape is a lush green with beautiful waterfalls and crazy agricultural fields on the hillsides. He has loved that the weather hasn't been too hot or humid. He arrived on the island during hurricane season so there was tons of rain and thunderstorms. On one occasion, a mudslide inundated a few houses. Dallin was so excited because it gave him an opportunity to do something that didn't require language fluency. He loved the opportunities he got to shovel mud out of houses or make concrete to pour into tires to create poles for a volleyball net. The language has been his most difficult struggle. He expressed discouragement as he sat in hour long branch council meetings (as the second counselor in the branch presidency) and not understand what was going on, r try to teach a lesson only to have his companion have to repeat everything he said so the people would understand. He loved the people and the branch but found it challenging to create organizations and motivate attendance without the command of the language. However, he discovered ways to connect with the youth through sports (and his ever present positive, optimistic, infectious attitude). He met people whose hearts were open to the gospel message, even if life circumstances prevented them from being baptized or provided an obstacle to activity (e.g., Melvin and Dorca, Carina, etc.). He was able to perform his first baptism of a young girl named, Isarie. He of course had other adventures including getting schooled in basketball (after saying if he won, his opponents would have to go to church...needless to say, he and his companion went solo that Sunday), having a man answer the door with a shot gun, watching a boxing match...on Sunday, teaching English lessons, getting "kissed" (cheek besos), riding a bike then having his companion break said bike, and so much more! More than any of that, Dallin has experienced a subtle spiritual growth. He desire to study, learn, and teach is ingrained into every part of his being. His love for the people of that island has increased exponentially, but more than that, his love and dedication to his Savior is enviable. He is in the right place at this time in his life...and we couldn't be more proud of his service and sacrifice. Now on to the next adventure!