This past week we have received two emails from South Africa, one from Australia, and a letter from St. Louis, Miss. Here are a few excerpts:
"On the level that I knew Bryce throughout the years, I can say, without a doubt and without hesitation, that his dealings with his fellow men were just. He had a good head on his shoulders and was in no way self-serving. He was easy to relate to and easy to trust. He was always worthy of that trust."
"We are all allotted a portion of time, however long it be, and the precious and critical gift of agency. We purchase experience, growth and knowledge with the time we've been given and are indeed stewards over these crucial earthly blessings. I've come to a more real understanding of these things this past couple of weeks. My prayers are tears that go out to Bryce and his family especially. I can't imagine how tough that would be but I guess, if it's any sort of consolation, compensation or comfort, this event has helped a simple missionary in the ...mission to put things into perspective. My family and my God can be happy to know that for these past 18 months, their son has worked hard, been obedient and striven to improve and learn much, but they can also know that the last quarter of the Lord's mission that I'm here, is going to be EPIC! I'm going to push, pull and struggle my very best in giving my ALL. So in regards to these last 6 months, and in the spirit of Pennywise ( Bro. Hymn Tribute), " Elder Christensen...Bryce, my brother, this one's for you!" Thanks Bryce.
"I Loved Bryce as my own and had an email from him just before he left - he was one of Heavenly Father's choicest sons and his love for the wonderful work he did here was an example to so many. i wish I knew sooner I feel so bad about only contacting you now. we are so lucky to have the gospel in our lives it doesnt ease the pain or make things easier but it gives us the comfort of knowing that we will one day be reunited and that this isnt the end. we will smile again and hug and laugh. There is not much I can say that will help, but I can tell you that your sacrifice in letting us share Bryce for a short time was such a blessing to me .. his sense of humour and love helped me so much and really will always be with me...THANK YOU. "
"Oh and when he was over here in Africa he loved talking about you guys so for a long time I have felt like I had known you. He use to tell us how you( his mom) would wake everyone up and you guys would all go do your family prayers, ...I felt so touched a while back when I spoke to some of the other members and they shared what they loved the most about Bryce while he served here. He truly has touched alot of people down here. I hope to one day be a good of a missionary as he was while he served here. I am still busy with my mission papers and I am really excited to go serve already it fells like everything is taking forever, but I need to be patient I know that the Lord is on my side."
