Dear Sisters and Elders,
I love you! That love is deep, and profound and unexplainable. It is good to serve with you in the Florida Tampa Mission.
I recall reading a small book last summer. It is simply called “212 the Extra degree” by S.L. Parker. Here are a few ideas that I can remember from when I read this small and simple book.
At 211 degrees, water is hot. At 212 degrees, it boils. And with boiling water comes steam. And with steam, you can power an engine. One extra degree of temperature to water means the difference between something that is simply very hot and something that generates enough force to power a machine. What would one extra degree in our work accomplish? It reminds us that small and simple things can make a difference.
We have been working on our Perfect Mornings. What is one thing we could do just one degree better? I am often asked by missionaries, “How can I make my study more meaningful? An answer to that question will have a powerful effect on the happiness of your life and those you love now and will yet love. Effective study will change your life and the lives of those you serve. Remember, “True doctrine understood and applied will change behavior.” Daily meaningful study of the gospel delivers that power, or that steam in your life that can be found nowhere else. It is the power of the Holy Ghost. When we study effectively we are taught by the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost will give you in that mornings’ study sufficient nourishment and direction for an inspiring day. The Holy Ghost will properly feed your mind and the spirit will show you things that you should do. As you are nourished in the morning by the Word, you will be taught those things that, if used will bless someone else that day. Your sincere study will provide that steam needed to have the Holy Ghost teach you.
President Eyring, Elder Bednar and Elder Holland have all promised that something you are taught by the Holy Ghost in your morning study will be a source of strength and encouragement to someone you find and teach during that day. I echo that promise. President David O McKay taught us to “remember that the little things are parts of the great. It is through the influence of little things that I can become what I desire.” One degree is the difference between hot water and power. Preach My Gospel says, “Your calling gives you authority, keeping your covenants gives you power.”p.11
You are trying to set the pattern for your life. It is taught here. Are you going to try? Not only should you ask Him for help, you should tell Him what you are going to do. Then get off of your knees and do it and see His hand. Add just one degree to any of your efforts and you will bring the power from heaven for your engine. I am grateful for the privilege of serving with you. I believe in you!

President Summerhays