What a week! A lot of action at home as usual! Lauren, where are your senior pics?! I would love to see a sneak peak of my big little sister! Sure does sound like a lot of movement at home between baseball, graduations, homecomings, family and more baseball! I do love you ALL!
Haha, well you stole my thunder- I AM BEING TRANSFERRED! I was pretty surprised- I expected to be here for at least several more months, but am nevertheless sure that where I am headed will be full of amazing people. These past couple of days have just made my stomach upset with trying to give all my good byes, writing letters, and packing! I worry for the people that I can't keep up with, but hope that in giving them my testimony and memories and a piece of my growth that they will remember the change they have made and want to continue to draw nearer to Jesus christ! I do have full faith that this next area will bring me much happiness and that I will work very hard. But man, if just leaving my area is hard, I am dreading having to leave the mission field.
I feel so grateful to have witnessed Ed and Brenda begin to come closer to Jesus Christ and progressing towards baptism. This week we have had some super neat experiences- particularly with Brenda. We actually went on a temple tour with her, bishop and sis Mixon, and even bro makinson joined us a little later! It was so wonderful Friday night Orlando traffic was insane, but somehow we got there just in time. There was a one hour orientation given by a member of our mission presidency where the restoration, plan of salvation, and process/why temples are built was discussed. We then went over to walk around the temple. It was beautiful. Brenda was beaming. She was so open in asking questions, and was recognizing the spirit. She felt it to be such an honor that Bishop came to accompany us.
One other highlight of the week was when we were able to bike all up down and around lake Helen. It is such a quaint little town that we don't go to very often because so most of our work is done in the northern part of Deltona- but in between all of our biking we gained 4 new investigators, had a wonderful discussion with a less active sister in our Ward, and had several really neat contacts. It was such an enjoyable day. It was lightly raining for most the day, we were able to eat our lunch at a nearby canopy, and ... even took pictures!!! Haha, but I am so glad that I have been taking pictures this week- Deland 2 South has meant everything to me! A perfect first area!
Quick Highlights:
This week was also interviews with President! It was so refreshing to speak with him. I really have gained a testimony of the authority and discernment of priesthood leaders in these last 4 months. He asked me so many inspired questions. He said the things that I knew I needed to hear.
One other fun thing we were able to do was service for this wonderful single sister in our Ward. She is such a staple for us and this ward, so we were thrilled to finally be able to do something for her. We spent a very enjoyable Saturday afternoon weeding, painting, and raking. It's funny how things (scripture study, cleaning etc.) once a chore, now are a huge relief to do on a mission. I loved to be outside and getting to work with her!
Yesterday was pretty much spent going from house to house and taking pics, trying to eat one more desert that each member would inevitably offer us- haha, and saying the temporary farewell. I love this Ward, and am so pleased to leave it knowing that I have invested everything here. I am very excited to see where I will be serving next- wahoo! We will see tomorrow morning and let you know next week!
I have come to be comfortable in biking this area, in building relationships with Ward members, having edifying interactions with gators. As I reflect on the use of my time and results of my effort, I can see that because of the success I have experienced in developing relationships and seeing people change, it's time for a change myself! I am grateful that I can again experience the growing pains of becoming completely unfamiliar, because it forces me to dig my heels even deeper and try to bloom faster in new ground. Lately we have shared Alma 32:34 -For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to perform their labors. I know that the Lord blesses those that desire to work with Him in his field- I feel trusted and strengthened. And so so blessed!
According to Princess Diaries, "a picture is worth more than one thousand words" :) So I am going to try to spend the remainder of my time trying to download pictures. The computer is very slow, but will try try try to send you as many as I can.
Press forward! Be steady! Be excited! Keep on keepin' the faith!
Monday, April 27, 2015
Monday, April 13, 2015
Preachin' Readin' 'n Prayin'!
FAMILY!!!
BIG D! Happy Birthday bro! I can't believe your 15! AND preparing to get a permit! Don't do what I did, and make life harder on yourself by having to get it twice :) Seriously, I can't believe what a stud you are- look for something in the mail soon. As I have just glanced at the emails sent from home, I can sense the up-roar over the latest Baseball tourney- shoot, well Dad the lesson you have been learning about not trying to dwell on things you can't control- because you just relinquish your power and energy to the opposing force has been a lesson I have been learning as well! The victory will just be even sweeter next time! Dad- I sure did love the pictures- I have been chuckling to myself for the last 30 minutes. And also, the song I was hoping you could send me was “Homeward Bound” by the BYU Singers- but really, I am getting pretty used to my music- if you have free time, I would love a couple of your most recent favorites (mission appropriate obviously). No worries to get it done quickly.
This week has been ALL about E and B! We have had almost daily interaction with E, and double the interaction with B! B is doing so well! The gospel is becoming her whole lifestyle! We teach her twice a week, but she is our ride everywhere! She comes to at least 3 activities a week, she has so many friends in the ward that she is taking the initiative to call herself and ask questions and set up appointments with- and she has been asking and asking to go see the temple- so we will go on a tour with her this Friday! Wahoo! LOVE B.
E is no less amazing- he has such a strong desire to find truth that has drove him to study like crazy! He has been reading at least 5 chapters in the BOM every day, practically memorized our pamphlets, and been asking the Schaeffer family in our ward many questions. Unfortunately, (with an intent to find truth from only “biased” sources), he has also taken up looking on wikipedia all about prophets. To our surprise he gained an incredible testimony that Joseph Smith was a prophet, but now has serious misgivings about our current prophet. Oh brother. He is beginning to have questions that are irrelevant to him becoming closer to Jesus Christ, and because they are ridiculous, we can't satisfy him with “good” answers. Nevertheless, he often asks us if we are still planning on meeting with him- he is a very smart man that wants to change his life. I have really gained a very good relationship with him- he has even said that he wants to buy me a plain ticket back out to Florida when I get home so we can go to St. Augustine (?) :)
I have developed so many amazing relationships in my ward, with my leaders, and investigators. I love my rural DeLand! I really hope I am not transferred- but with Sis Young being close to going home, it may be time to leave. Either way- I LOVE BEING A MISSIONARY. I don't bound around always beaming grateful to be tracting, eating another tuna sandwich, or biking home- but actually, I really do love it. I feel my spirit changing, I see others changing, and I know that I am doing all to work with the Lord in his vineyard.
Haha, MOM- the email you received was from my District Leader. He has been my district leader as long as I have been here and serves with me in the DeLand 2nd Ward- we have a really good relationship! But… no. Nothing you were hinting. Haha, I almost burst out laughing when I read that innuendo.
We have some exciting things this week- tomorrow is interviews with President. For that reason, our District Meeting (normally Thursdays) will take place tomorrow as well, at which I will do another training. I have done so many trainings! And if I am not doing a training, I am usually doing a musical number. Oh well, I know I always come out feeling stronger after having studied and bore testimony rather than listened. But regardless, I always love District Meetings. Also on May 4th (aka Star Wars Day, and Ellie May's B-day), Elder Clarke from the 70 is coming to speak to the mission. I feel so blessed to have been sent to such an incredible mission. It is a very social mission where I am able to have so much interaction with missionaries including district p-days. (Oh, by the way- last week we played sand volley ball…. Wasn't my shinning moment haha, but way fun). And with Orlando being such a hot spot of America, where many flights leave from to go to other countries, we have a privilege of hearing from general authorities more so than I think some other missions do. President Berry is so wonderful. I admire him and his wife so much. He is kind and trusts us. And these FLORIDIANS are crazy! Very colorful, quirky, Christ-lovin' people from many backgrounds.
Well, I try to be very positive in these emails- because so many great things are happening and I love my calling. I dread the time when I will not be a missionary for Jesus Christ. But, for any one that may read these emails and considering the experience a mission may entail- it can be hard. I have never fallen asleep so quickly so consistently than on a mission. You have to be very flexible- and reliable- and rely on others. Some days we don't teach anyone- some days we teach 8 people. Some days I look so sweaty. But in every instance, I feel the spirit. I know Heavenly Father is proud of me. Even when I am tired, I still feel energy. When I am about to become very nervous for things panning out- things usually fall apart- but then a better plan becomes so evident- like it was right in front of me the whole time. I have never had a really bad day- nor do I think I will. Because there are some hard moments, but they are just moments. The majority of my day is never boring- we can be very creative and have a lot of fun as we talk to so many people. It is a blast. I feel so powerful. I feel so loved.
Please read and pray at home. I have seen families become very disjointed and quickly unraveled by forgetting the little things. Recently I learned that when our stake presidency was changed just 6 months ago, Elder Godlen from the 70 came to interview the possible candidates for the stake president. The only questions asked in the qualifying interview were- do you read the scriptures every day, do you read the scriptures with your family every week, do you say a kneeling prayer every night and every evening, do you pray as a family, and do you have family home evening. That was it. Only 5 people qualified. Though this area is mostly made up of fairly recent converts, I still wonder- really, how different is it all around the world? Please read and pray, even if it it is short! It brings confidence, clarity, and power in my life. We are supposed to find peace- and prayer and scripture reading is how it is accomplished.
Can you tell what I have been teaching and testifying of lately? Haha, don't mean to over do it- it's just that good!
Hope you have a week that is full of good!
BIG D! Happy Birthday bro! I can't believe your 15! AND preparing to get a permit! Don't do what I did, and make life harder on yourself by having to get it twice :) Seriously, I can't believe what a stud you are- look for something in the mail soon. As I have just glanced at the emails sent from home, I can sense the up-roar over the latest Baseball tourney- shoot, well Dad the lesson you have been learning about not trying to dwell on things you can't control- because you just relinquish your power and energy to the opposing force has been a lesson I have been learning as well! The victory will just be even sweeter next time! Dad- I sure did love the pictures- I have been chuckling to myself for the last 30 minutes. And also, the song I was hoping you could send me was “Homeward Bound” by the BYU Singers- but really, I am getting pretty used to my music- if you have free time, I would love a couple of your most recent favorites (mission appropriate obviously). No worries to get it done quickly.
This week has been ALL about E and B! We have had almost daily interaction with E, and double the interaction with B! B is doing so well! The gospel is becoming her whole lifestyle! We teach her twice a week, but she is our ride everywhere! She comes to at least 3 activities a week, she has so many friends in the ward that she is taking the initiative to call herself and ask questions and set up appointments with- and she has been asking and asking to go see the temple- so we will go on a tour with her this Friday! Wahoo! LOVE B.
E is no less amazing- he has such a strong desire to find truth that has drove him to study like crazy! He has been reading at least 5 chapters in the BOM every day, practically memorized our pamphlets, and been asking the Schaeffer family in our ward many questions. Unfortunately, (with an intent to find truth from only “biased” sources), he has also taken up looking on wikipedia all about prophets. To our surprise he gained an incredible testimony that Joseph Smith was a prophet, but now has serious misgivings about our current prophet. Oh brother. He is beginning to have questions that are irrelevant to him becoming closer to Jesus Christ, and because they are ridiculous, we can't satisfy him with “good” answers. Nevertheless, he often asks us if we are still planning on meeting with him- he is a very smart man that wants to change his life. I have really gained a very good relationship with him- he has even said that he wants to buy me a plain ticket back out to Florida when I get home so we can go to St. Augustine (?) :)
I have developed so many amazing relationships in my ward, with my leaders, and investigators. I love my rural DeLand! I really hope I am not transferred- but with Sis Young being close to going home, it may be time to leave. Either way- I LOVE BEING A MISSIONARY. I don't bound around always beaming grateful to be tracting, eating another tuna sandwich, or biking home- but actually, I really do love it. I feel my spirit changing, I see others changing, and I know that I am doing all to work with the Lord in his vineyard.
Haha, MOM- the email you received was from my District Leader. He has been my district leader as long as I have been here and serves with me in the DeLand 2nd Ward- we have a really good relationship! But… no. Nothing you were hinting. Haha, I almost burst out laughing when I read that innuendo.
We have some exciting things this week- tomorrow is interviews with President. For that reason, our District Meeting (normally Thursdays) will take place tomorrow as well, at which I will do another training. I have done so many trainings! And if I am not doing a training, I am usually doing a musical number. Oh well, I know I always come out feeling stronger after having studied and bore testimony rather than listened. But regardless, I always love District Meetings. Also on May 4th (aka Star Wars Day, and Ellie May's B-day), Elder Clarke from the 70 is coming to speak to the mission. I feel so blessed to have been sent to such an incredible mission. It is a very social mission where I am able to have so much interaction with missionaries including district p-days. (Oh, by the way- last week we played sand volley ball…. Wasn't my shinning moment haha, but way fun). And with Orlando being such a hot spot of America, where many flights leave from to go to other countries, we have a privilege of hearing from general authorities more so than I think some other missions do. President Berry is so wonderful. I admire him and his wife so much. He is kind and trusts us. And these FLORIDIANS are crazy! Very colorful, quirky, Christ-lovin' people from many backgrounds.
Well, I try to be very positive in these emails- because so many great things are happening and I love my calling. I dread the time when I will not be a missionary for Jesus Christ. But, for any one that may read these emails and considering the experience a mission may entail- it can be hard. I have never fallen asleep so quickly so consistently than on a mission. You have to be very flexible- and reliable- and rely on others. Some days we don't teach anyone- some days we teach 8 people. Some days I look so sweaty. But in every instance, I feel the spirit. I know Heavenly Father is proud of me. Even when I am tired, I still feel energy. When I am about to become very nervous for things panning out- things usually fall apart- but then a better plan becomes so evident- like it was right in front of me the whole time. I have never had a really bad day- nor do I think I will. Because there are some hard moments, but they are just moments. The majority of my day is never boring- we can be very creative and have a lot of fun as we talk to so many people. It is a blast. I feel so powerful. I feel so loved.
Please read and pray at home. I have seen families become very disjointed and quickly unraveled by forgetting the little things. Recently I learned that when our stake presidency was changed just 6 months ago, Elder Godlen from the 70 came to interview the possible candidates for the stake president. The only questions asked in the qualifying interview were- do you read the scriptures every day, do you read the scriptures with your family every week, do you say a kneeling prayer every night and every evening, do you pray as a family, and do you have family home evening. That was it. Only 5 people qualified. Though this area is mostly made up of fairly recent converts, I still wonder- really, how different is it all around the world? Please read and pray, even if it it is short! It brings confidence, clarity, and power in my life. We are supposed to find peace- and prayer and scripture reading is how it is accomplished.
Can you tell what I have been teaching and testifying of lately? Haha, don't mean to over do it- it's just that good!
Hope you have a week that is full of good!
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
My first conference weekend!
Wow- there is a lot going on at home!! All the mission calls are so exciting!!! And good ol' baseball- I am glad the events were family affairs! There was a moment when I was trekking through Palm trees and crumbling streets on my bike and thought- I wonder what the scores are?! Haha, I am not homesick (really, I am not and never have been) but at that moment I wished I could have been cheering from the side lines. Loved the package- thank you so much momma!
This week we have seen three of our gators really begin to actually progress to be baptized. We also had an awesome Zone Training Meeting on faith (I was asked to do another music number) and afterwords went out to lunch with all the sisters in my zone (their were probably 12 of us total)! We have also really been helping the ward make some strides by beginning to invite people to be Ward missionaries. It has been an inspired week.
Specifically we have had some very notable and amazing lessons with our progressing investigators Ed and Brenda this week. Due to time, I am not able to give you a full account of how inspiring it was to see situations that as missionaries we cringe at because of the comments or behavior of some members in the church as we are making our first introductions with our investigators, but still see the spirit enter their hearts and testify when true doctrine is taught. It was like angels were plugging their ears at the right times- because their responses to these interactions this week were very positive and enthusiastic about continuing to meet and learn!
One of my favorite things that has happened this week occurred yesterday. 45 min before conference began we took our investigator E (remember E?!) on a church tour. Because our gator B and her boyfriend Bro M were our rides, so they ended up tagging along. The dynamic of this group was very funny, because Bro M (a returning member with a lot of misunderstandings and misconceptions with the church) who lives with Brenda (our originally catholic investigator who has a lot of questions but is really progressing towards baptism), were actually trying to impress E on the church tour. Ha! It wasn't just the missionaries' minds turning when E would ask questions or look confused! They wanted him to know that things here are really normal and special. We ended up sitting in between this group of misfits at conference and loved it! We had a couple members that came just to interact B and E, and of-course conference was just amazing. I had complete faith that things would turn out, however I have spent much time, fasting, and prayer this week pondering over their first experience at General Conference. E had to leave a little early, but he texted us a little while later to thank us for the invitation- he even got us Easter gifts. And Brenda was so touched by Jeffrey R Hollands talk that it brought her to tears afterwords. Because E had left, we were able to have a really short but sweet conversation afterwords. The Lord really took care of us all.
We also had a really great contact this week. We were syncing our iPads at our apartments clubhouse and this ultra confidant woman walked by and said hello. We stopped her and complimented her on her big sun hat. She asked who we were, and after giving her a little intro we whipped out our iPads and just showed her the Because He Lives video (for all non missionary viewers- have you watched it yet?!). I love having an iPad! When we watch videos with people, they quickly become engaged. And because this particular video was centered on Christ it invited the sweet spirit and all we had to do was testify! She was in tears. I thought that by now I would know all the tricks to contacting, but actually I have found that every time we just wing it! Haha, but as long as we testify of doctrine and reach out to them in while seeing every contact as an opportunity to talk to one of gods children who need to come back to him, that it's all good. The experience we had with this woman was just one example of not doing something crazy, but just going out of our way to open a conversation and it leading her to feel the light of Christ. I love talking to everyone- it definitely never gets boring :)
Conference was of-course spectacular. We watched all four sessions in the church. Really the 5 sets of missionaries were the only ones there on Saturday, but on Sunday we had 2 investigators, 1 returning member, and 3 larcs attend with us plus some misfits in the back! I loved to see how each person saw different themes all through out the conference, and in particular loved how I received specific revelation for the names I had written down. It was such a peaceful weekend full of anticipation to hear the words from our dear prophet and apostles. As I have looked back on my notes, I have noticed the phrase "act with the end in mind" written down in some form or another many times. I don't want to have any regret looking back on how I used my time in he incredible FOM (Florida Orlando Mission). My journal is filled with notes- I was able to soak up so much good and plan to put it into action!
I love being a missionary. It is so exciting, reassuring, and brings much peace and anticipation. I know that Jesus Christ lives, and that He can help you overcome whatever may be hindering you ability to hear Him, if you just want to draw near unto Him. I know that our loving Heavenly Father has put into place a plan that is attainable and meant to bring us eternal peace and happiness. I know that this church is true because I have experienced change in myself, seen change in others, and can feel the Holy Ghost purify my heart as it remains with me.
Love you. Stay strong. Please read your scriptures every day- it brings focus and peace into my life and know it will do the same for yours. Love love love you!
Sista' Earl
This week we have seen three of our gators really begin to actually progress to be baptized. We also had an awesome Zone Training Meeting on faith (I was asked to do another music number) and afterwords went out to lunch with all the sisters in my zone (their were probably 12 of us total)! We have also really been helping the ward make some strides by beginning to invite people to be Ward missionaries. It has been an inspired week.
Specifically we have had some very notable and amazing lessons with our progressing investigators Ed and Brenda this week. Due to time, I am not able to give you a full account of how inspiring it was to see situations that as missionaries we cringe at because of the comments or behavior of some members in the church as we are making our first introductions with our investigators, but still see the spirit enter their hearts and testify when true doctrine is taught. It was like angels were plugging their ears at the right times- because their responses to these interactions this week were very positive and enthusiastic about continuing to meet and learn!
One of my favorite things that has happened this week occurred yesterday. 45 min before conference began we took our investigator E (remember E?!) on a church tour. Because our gator B and her boyfriend Bro M were our rides, so they ended up tagging along. The dynamic of this group was very funny, because Bro M (a returning member with a lot of misunderstandings and misconceptions with the church) who lives with Brenda (our originally catholic investigator who has a lot of questions but is really progressing towards baptism), were actually trying to impress E on the church tour. Ha! It wasn't just the missionaries' minds turning when E would ask questions or look confused! They wanted him to know that things here are really normal and special. We ended up sitting in between this group of misfits at conference and loved it! We had a couple members that came just to interact B and E, and of-course conference was just amazing. I had complete faith that things would turn out, however I have spent much time, fasting, and prayer this week pondering over their first experience at General Conference. E had to leave a little early, but he texted us a little while later to thank us for the invitation- he even got us Easter gifts. And Brenda was so touched by Jeffrey R Hollands talk that it brought her to tears afterwords. Because E had left, we were able to have a really short but sweet conversation afterwords. The Lord really took care of us all.
We also had a really great contact this week. We were syncing our iPads at our apartments clubhouse and this ultra confidant woman walked by and said hello. We stopped her and complimented her on her big sun hat. She asked who we were, and after giving her a little intro we whipped out our iPads and just showed her the Because He Lives video (for all non missionary viewers- have you watched it yet?!). I love having an iPad! When we watch videos with people, they quickly become engaged. And because this particular video was centered on Christ it invited the sweet spirit and all we had to do was testify! She was in tears. I thought that by now I would know all the tricks to contacting, but actually I have found that every time we just wing it! Haha, but as long as we testify of doctrine and reach out to them in while seeing every contact as an opportunity to talk to one of gods children who need to come back to him, that it's all good. The experience we had with this woman was just one example of not doing something crazy, but just going out of our way to open a conversation and it leading her to feel the light of Christ. I love talking to everyone- it definitely never gets boring :)
Conference was of-course spectacular. We watched all four sessions in the church. Really the 5 sets of missionaries were the only ones there on Saturday, but on Sunday we had 2 investigators, 1 returning member, and 3 larcs attend with us plus some misfits in the back! I loved to see how each person saw different themes all through out the conference, and in particular loved how I received specific revelation for the names I had written down. It was such a peaceful weekend full of anticipation to hear the words from our dear prophet and apostles. As I have looked back on my notes, I have noticed the phrase "act with the end in mind" written down in some form or another many times. I don't want to have any regret looking back on how I used my time in he incredible FOM (Florida Orlando Mission). My journal is filled with notes- I was able to soak up so much good and plan to put it into action!
I love being a missionary. It is so exciting, reassuring, and brings much peace and anticipation. I know that Jesus Christ lives, and that He can help you overcome whatever may be hindering you ability to hear Him, if you just want to draw near unto Him. I know that our loving Heavenly Father has put into place a plan that is attainable and meant to bring us eternal peace and happiness. I know that this church is true because I have experienced change in myself, seen change in others, and can feel the Holy Ghost purify my heart as it remains with me.
Love you. Stay strong. Please read your scriptures every day- it brings focus and peace into my life and know it will do the same for yours. Love love love you!
Sista' Earl
Monday, March 30, 2015
#BecauseHeLives #YOFLO
As usual, I love seeing and hearing from all y'all at home! Family- have fun at the tournament! I am always routing for who ever may be competing!
This week has been pretty solid- car week!!!! Yes! And GREAT weather- March is definetely the time to visit Florida! Less cockroaches! Ward conference! General conference approaching! Everything is just dandy here in DeLand :) I have felt very close to my Savior this week as I have prayed for guidance in word and deed. When I initially realized that we pray before and after everything we do in the mission field, my honest reaction was- how in the world am I going to find new things to pray for? But after getting some pretty good practice in, I just find myself conversing all the time. I feel very close to my savior, and feel of his guidance in my work and his love for the people I serve and serve with.
Just a couple cool experiences we had this week-
P- a new gator! We met him biking two weeks ago- we were biking down a hill and he was coming up and rockin it! But we stopped him in the middle of his mojo and ended up having a really great conversation with him and got his number. We were able to teach him this last week. He was a big ex-military guy all tatted up, but he had a very soft heart and was very willing to hear our message. We taught a great lesson together. And when the time came for a closing prayer, he ended up giving it (with some pursuasion :) ) on his knees on a cement ampitheater. Because this man had humbled himself to try something knew in a unsual setting we were blessed with the feelings and promptings of the spirit that confirmed our words and his questions. It was really neat. We will see him again on Tuesday!
S- This sweet girl has been falling, but by some miracle she consented to see us (she cancelled last week). She was very stand-offish (is that an actual word?) with us initially, and I didn't see much hope for the spirit to touch her heart. We tried to keep a conversation going that she was trying to shut down. But things didn't get really rolling until we showed her the Patterns of Light (revelation) video. She teared up and expressed the fear she has been living in because she knows that she hasn't felt the influence of the spirit for quite some time. We taught her a lesson on Faith, and left amazed and so touched and also pretty confused at how she had finally admitted to herself her need to feel the influence of the spirit again in her life.
Exchanges and Air Dropping #BecauseHeLives Video at the Library- While on our exchange with our Sister Training Leaders this week (one happens every transfer), I went with one sister to the New Smyrna Beach Area to their Library. With the recent release of the Easter video (if you haven't seen it- you NEED to- anyone can enjoy it), we have been pushed to show it to everyone! I think it is such an excellent video- I have seen it so many times already but just can't get tired of it! We felt pretty witty when we thought to air drop the video to others using ipads in the Library- but we changed our Ipad name from "Sis Earl" to "God". No one ended up accepting the video- but we felt pretty creative.
Some items for home:
I am going to begin sending stuff home- it's collecting quickly. And, with the weather changing I am really seeing what I can and cant use.
Dad, you mentioned that you have been listening to Homeward Bound- Is there anyway to send that my way? Also, I LOVE listening to the EFY music- could you send me the one the new one they will release for this new "Embark" theme when it comes out?
I didn't end up sending that letter because something came up- BUT I will send it today.
Well, I am loving being a missionary. Lately I have had the question that Elder Zwick of the 70 posed to us- what am I willing to give up to me a more effective missionary? I feel so blessed to have allotted time to devote myself to this week. am becoming very comfortable in my area, and loving my sweet ward members. Can you believe it is almost April?! Time is flying by.
Until next week Familia! #YOFLO (you only florida once- haha)
This week has been pretty solid- car week!!!! Yes! And GREAT weather- March is definetely the time to visit Florida! Less cockroaches! Ward conference! General conference approaching! Everything is just dandy here in DeLand :) I have felt very close to my Savior this week as I have prayed for guidance in word and deed. When I initially realized that we pray before and after everything we do in the mission field, my honest reaction was- how in the world am I going to find new things to pray for? But after getting some pretty good practice in, I just find myself conversing all the time. I feel very close to my savior, and feel of his guidance in my work and his love for the people I serve and serve with.
Just a couple cool experiences we had this week-
P- a new gator! We met him biking two weeks ago- we were biking down a hill and he was coming up and rockin it! But we stopped him in the middle of his mojo and ended up having a really great conversation with him and got his number. We were able to teach him this last week. He was a big ex-military guy all tatted up, but he had a very soft heart and was very willing to hear our message. We taught a great lesson together. And when the time came for a closing prayer, he ended up giving it (with some pursuasion :) ) on his knees on a cement ampitheater. Because this man had humbled himself to try something knew in a unsual setting we were blessed with the feelings and promptings of the spirit that confirmed our words and his questions. It was really neat. We will see him again on Tuesday!
S- This sweet girl has been falling, but by some miracle she consented to see us (she cancelled last week). She was very stand-offish (is that an actual word?) with us initially, and I didn't see much hope for the spirit to touch her heart. We tried to keep a conversation going that she was trying to shut down. But things didn't get really rolling until we showed her the Patterns of Light (revelation) video. She teared up and expressed the fear she has been living in because she knows that she hasn't felt the influence of the spirit for quite some time. We taught her a lesson on Faith, and left amazed and so touched and also pretty confused at how she had finally admitted to herself her need to feel the influence of the spirit again in her life.
Exchanges and Air Dropping #BecauseHeLives Video at the Library- While on our exchange with our Sister Training Leaders this week (one happens every transfer), I went with one sister to the New Smyrna Beach Area to their Library. With the recent release of the Easter video (if you haven't seen it- you NEED to- anyone can enjoy it), we have been pushed to show it to everyone! I think it is such an excellent video- I have seen it so many times already but just can't get tired of it! We felt pretty witty when we thought to air drop the video to others using ipads in the Library- but we changed our Ipad name from "Sis Earl" to "God". No one ended up accepting the video- but we felt pretty creative.
Some items for home:
I am going to begin sending stuff home- it's collecting quickly. And, with the weather changing I am really seeing what I can and cant use.
Dad, you mentioned that you have been listening to Homeward Bound- Is there anyway to send that my way? Also, I LOVE listening to the EFY music- could you send me the one the new one they will release for this new "Embark" theme when it comes out?
I didn't end up sending that letter because something came up- BUT I will send it today.
Well, I am loving being a missionary. Lately I have had the question that Elder Zwick of the 70 posed to us- what am I willing to give up to me a more effective missionary? I feel so blessed to have allotted time to devote myself to this week. am becoming very comfortable in my area, and loving my sweet ward members. Can you believe it is almost April?! Time is flying by.
Until next week Familia! #YOFLO (you only florida once- haha)
Monday, March 23, 2015
Week full of biking, miracles, and cockroaches
I am so grateful for the consistent letters- it's a relief to know that every week I can count on emails from home. And also I have received many letters from a variety of family members- I feel bad that I am so behind in responding to people, but know that I have appreciated every gesture and prayer!
Well it was the first day of spring this week! Though it's pretty much sunny, and humid all year round, there is definitely an increase in pollen, sweat, heat, and bugs. Hence the frightening title. MORE cockroaches. Good heavens, I hate those things. They are big, crunchy, and creepy. This last week Sis Y woke up at night with 2 on her face- she swung out of bed, turned on the light and turned over her sheets to see if there were more. The next night she woke up again and we both found them on our beds. Needless to say we have a couple techniques- 1. Slamming every surface possible with a shoe, 2. Spearing the ones that get in the corners of cabinets and the space between wall and carpet with the end of a broom, 3. Sweeping them out using the really long outdated Joseph Smith pamphlets. When I say that we have killed too many this week, I am really saying that Sis Y did. But we have had our dear Sis Boynton (the senior couple that serves in our ward and lives In our apartment complex) come and spray our apartment. I have never prayed so hard to sleep well than this week- she is so good to us! I love and admire our senior couple- they would do anything that we needed whether we ask or not. But seriously, for the whole rest of the week I have been tip-toeing and looking around every corner around the apartment. Haha, I am so grateful for fearless fellow missionaries :)
This week we had a fantastic zone conference where half of the zones in the mission get together and have an all day training. I love being with other missionaries. The night before they asked if I could put together a musical number- because I was concerned about throwing a piano part on somebody, I played an arrangement of I Need Thee Every Hour and the 3 sisters in my district sang. It really turned out, and the spirit was very evident. We got out new iPads this week and got to see again the new Easter initiative- it amazes me to see all the money, energy, time, and resources that have been dumped into hastening this work- I feel so deeply grateful to be apart of this trusted group of missionaries!
This week! Here are some of the results of really hard prayers and effort this week:
We just happened (muhahah) to see this really cute less active girl in our ward (Jordan) as she came outside to switch her laundry. She probably wouldn't have let us in had we not seen and approached her in that moment. We had a great lesson win her. We left having extending her really inspired invitations, and she had a new resolve to meet with us. She even asked to come out and spend time seeing people with us!
We had really been really anxious about a meeting that we had set with a recent convert of ours that in recent months has turned to really poor sources for information, and I turn has questioned ever having faith and found more disturbing questions. This meeting was supposed to happen the morning after our zone conference when we got our new iPads. However when we came home from zone conference all of our plans that we had saved in our data base were deleted. We went to so much effort to figure everything out again, find rides etc.,and right before the time we were about to leave to meet Sarah, she cancelled. Well the Lord had a different plan in mind. We ended up going to visit with one of our progressing gators (Brenda) instead, and a had a great lesson in which we committed her to baptism on May 2nd! Such a miracle that she was able to meet with us on such short notice, allow the spirit to enter her heart to accept the date, and give such a fluent heart felt prayer afterwords.
We just had a really great lesson with a new gator of ours (destiny). She was vey inquisitive and open. But by the time we were able to answer all of her questions and invited her to baptism as well, we had 10 min to bike a 30 minute bike ride in order to get to our next appointment (Glase girls). We were cruisin'!!! Seriously, we had all these over passes to climb over but we still made it in 15 minutes. When it comes to heavenly fathers children hearing the message of the restored gospel, he finds a way to make it happen. In that moment it felt like super strength and tenacity.
I love you all! I am so grateful for your support and strength. I am finally going to send a letter that has been in the works for the last couple months TODAY. So be keeping an eye out for it!
Also, something that I have discovered this week is that if I have a spiritual question the answer will not be factual- it will be a spiritual one as well. It's hard to describe what these answers may feel/look like, but the more we want and try to recognize them, the more prevalent they will be. Also with conference approaching (!!!), I have been pondering over what revelation I actually need. I know that I order to receive an answer, we also must ponder and decide our questions first. Food for thought! What revelation are you in need of? What question are you expecting to be answered as you watch conference?
Love you! Godspeed!
Well it was the first day of spring this week! Though it's pretty much sunny, and humid all year round, there is definitely an increase in pollen, sweat, heat, and bugs. Hence the frightening title. MORE cockroaches. Good heavens, I hate those things. They are big, crunchy, and creepy. This last week Sis Y woke up at night with 2 on her face- she swung out of bed, turned on the light and turned over her sheets to see if there were more. The next night she woke up again and we both found them on our beds. Needless to say we have a couple techniques- 1. Slamming every surface possible with a shoe, 2. Spearing the ones that get in the corners of cabinets and the space between wall and carpet with the end of a broom, 3. Sweeping them out using the really long outdated Joseph Smith pamphlets. When I say that we have killed too many this week, I am really saying that Sis Y did. But we have had our dear Sis Boynton (the senior couple that serves in our ward and lives In our apartment complex) come and spray our apartment. I have never prayed so hard to sleep well than this week- she is so good to us! I love and admire our senior couple- they would do anything that we needed whether we ask or not. But seriously, for the whole rest of the week I have been tip-toeing and looking around every corner around the apartment. Haha, I am so grateful for fearless fellow missionaries :)
This week we had a fantastic zone conference where half of the zones in the mission get together and have an all day training. I love being with other missionaries. The night before they asked if I could put together a musical number- because I was concerned about throwing a piano part on somebody, I played an arrangement of I Need Thee Every Hour and the 3 sisters in my district sang. It really turned out, and the spirit was very evident. We got out new iPads this week and got to see again the new Easter initiative- it amazes me to see all the money, energy, time, and resources that have been dumped into hastening this work- I feel so deeply grateful to be apart of this trusted group of missionaries!
This week! Here are some of the results of really hard prayers and effort this week:
We just happened (muhahah) to see this really cute less active girl in our ward (Jordan) as she came outside to switch her laundry. She probably wouldn't have let us in had we not seen and approached her in that moment. We had a great lesson win her. We left having extending her really inspired invitations, and she had a new resolve to meet with us. She even asked to come out and spend time seeing people with us!
We had really been really anxious about a meeting that we had set with a recent convert of ours that in recent months has turned to really poor sources for information, and I turn has questioned ever having faith and found more disturbing questions. This meeting was supposed to happen the morning after our zone conference when we got our new iPads. However when we came home from zone conference all of our plans that we had saved in our data base were deleted. We went to so much effort to figure everything out again, find rides etc.,and right before the time we were about to leave to meet Sarah, she cancelled. Well the Lord had a different plan in mind. We ended up going to visit with one of our progressing gators (Brenda) instead, and a had a great lesson in which we committed her to baptism on May 2nd! Such a miracle that she was able to meet with us on such short notice, allow the spirit to enter her heart to accept the date, and give such a fluent heart felt prayer afterwords.
We just had a really great lesson with a new gator of ours (destiny). She was vey inquisitive and open. But by the time we were able to answer all of her questions and invited her to baptism as well, we had 10 min to bike a 30 minute bike ride in order to get to our next appointment (Glase girls). We were cruisin'!!! Seriously, we had all these over passes to climb over but we still made it in 15 minutes. When it comes to heavenly fathers children hearing the message of the restored gospel, he finds a way to make it happen. In that moment it felt like super strength and tenacity.
I love you all! I am so grateful for your support and strength. I am finally going to send a letter that has been in the works for the last couple months TODAY. So be keeping an eye out for it!
Also, something that I have discovered this week is that if I have a spiritual question the answer will not be factual- it will be a spiritual one as well. It's hard to describe what these answers may feel/look like, but the more we want and try to recognize them, the more prevalent they will be. Also with conference approaching (!!!), I have been pondering over what revelation I actually need. I know that I order to receive an answer, we also must ponder and decide our questions first. Food for thought! What revelation are you in need of? What question are you expecting to be answered as you watch conference?
Love you! Godspeed!
Dun-Dun-Daaaa! ... A New Comp! Busy Week!
Familia!
Sounds like your all doing great! It sounds like an exciting time at home- isn't change great?! Change in seasons, change in baseball, change in jobs, change in school, changes in teaching- change makes work rewarding. I am so glad that I'd experienced the cost of working hard before I came out- it makes all the changes easeir to cope with, and I am able to better recognize the Lord's hand in my day when I am not wieghed down with all the tasks that need to be completed. I love staying active- I have realized that if I slow down when I am tired, its very hard to start up again. I love hearing that it sounds like everyone is pressing on at home as well!
Weeellll, my companion's name is Sis Young! She is super sweet. She is from a ranch in Nebraska- a greal cowgirl! She has been out for 13 months! The trasnfer meeting always takes place on tuesdays. Transfer meetings are a blast! It's like a big draft. When we enter in the chapel they divide all the missionaries first by if they are staying or being transferred, then by zone. They have a little spiritual thought, introduct the new missionaries entering the field using a presentation and announce who their trainers will be, and then they have whoever is staying in the area stand as thier name is called by President, and then meet who's ever name is called after yours- announcing that your are now companions. It's very exciting. There are a lot of "ooo's" and "aaa's" from the audience of missionaries and members that come to the Orlando chapel. And MOM- Sis. Lewis was assinged to my district! Though she is not my direct companion, I see her at least 3 times a week- pass by each other at church on Sundays, have P-Days together, and interact at District Meeting. I am so impressed with her. She is such a sharp addition! We were wondering if you could send some stories of your own mission days when you were "Sis Vance and Call"?! SO Fun- RIGHT?!
Well, I have been leading the area! We have been so lost a couple times- but for the most part we have gotten right along. With this next week being bike week though, I am really considering buying a GPS. In the blink of an eye, with Sis A leaving, I had to direct everything! Making introductions, planning, copying maps, calling, texting, teaching- it's been a busy week! Nevertheless, we have been able to teach many of our gators this week! One particularily neat experience we had though was with a new gator we got this week. We actually approcahed the house trying to see someone that we had contacted a week before. But as we came up to the house, her mom told us that she wasn't home. We ended up talking to her mom though for about an hour! We taught her a lesson on faith, extended invitations to read the BOM, and prayed with her and now have a return appointment to follow up and continue to teach- I love meeting and teaching people! It always feel like a successful day when we have found someone new to teach!
Also another good experience we had this week, was at one of our "Why I Believe Firesides" last night. These Firsides are organized by President, and aimed for those who are investigating the church and are new members. We (almost applogetically) invited one of our gators whose boyfriend is a returning member to this meeting not expecting them to go because it was in Rockledge (an hour and a half away). But she wanted to come really badly! It was such a great meeting. Elder Kopishke (?) from the 70 came and organized a Q and A with a crowd 400+ people. Brenda (our gator) was so engaged. At the end of the meeting she saw people approaching Elder Kopishke to shake his hand, and she elbowed me and said "I have to ask him a question!". She started to make her way forwards while I tried to push my way through people to tell her that she could try but he is very busy. But once he saw her he pulled her aside and they had a 15 minute chat! I don't know what was said, but it just made my heart grow to see that such a special, busy, important representative would recognize the concern of my dear Brenda! It certianly has made me think of the people I bike past when I am in a hurry to get to an appointment- if a general authority can pull aside one woman amongst a crowd of 400+ people trying to snag a moment to shake his hand, then I can contact everyone I pass by to give them the chance they need to feel of the Light of Christ!
Yesterday was Missionary Sunday, where one missionary from each companionship was asked to speak. In sacrament, I was asked to speak on charity. I felt so guided and inspired as I was looking into the faces of my ward members. So many of them are recent converts. In the moment of teaching I realized that my soul has never been so heavy than to see some of them fall, but my joy has never been so great to see them teach, serve, and build up one another.
Mom- can you send me Jenny's email address- I have been thinking so much about her!
Sounds like your all doing great! It sounds like an exciting time at home- isn't change great?! Change in seasons, change in baseball, change in jobs, change in school, changes in teaching- change makes work rewarding. I am so glad that I'd experienced the cost of working hard before I came out- it makes all the changes easeir to cope with, and I am able to better recognize the Lord's hand in my day when I am not wieghed down with all the tasks that need to be completed. I love staying active- I have realized that if I slow down when I am tired, its very hard to start up again. I love hearing that it sounds like everyone is pressing on at home as well!
Weeellll, my companion's name is Sis Young! She is super sweet. She is from a ranch in Nebraska- a greal cowgirl! She has been out for 13 months! The trasnfer meeting always takes place on tuesdays. Transfer meetings are a blast! It's like a big draft. When we enter in the chapel they divide all the missionaries first by if they are staying or being transferred, then by zone. They have a little spiritual thought, introduct the new missionaries entering the field using a presentation and announce who their trainers will be, and then they have whoever is staying in the area stand as thier name is called by President, and then meet who's ever name is called after yours- announcing that your are now companions. It's very exciting. There are a lot of "ooo's" and "aaa's" from the audience of missionaries and members that come to the Orlando chapel. And MOM- Sis. Lewis was assinged to my district! Though she is not my direct companion, I see her at least 3 times a week- pass by each other at church on Sundays, have P-Days together, and interact at District Meeting. I am so impressed with her. She is such a sharp addition! We were wondering if you could send some stories of your own mission days when you were "Sis Vance and Call"?! SO Fun- RIGHT?!
Well, I have been leading the area! We have been so lost a couple times- but for the most part we have gotten right along. With this next week being bike week though, I am really considering buying a GPS. In the blink of an eye, with Sis A leaving, I had to direct everything! Making introductions, planning, copying maps, calling, texting, teaching- it's been a busy week! Nevertheless, we have been able to teach many of our gators this week! One particularily neat experience we had though was with a new gator we got this week. We actually approcahed the house trying to see someone that we had contacted a week before. But as we came up to the house, her mom told us that she wasn't home. We ended up talking to her mom though for about an hour! We taught her a lesson on faith, extended invitations to read the BOM, and prayed with her and now have a return appointment to follow up and continue to teach- I love meeting and teaching people! It always feel like a successful day when we have found someone new to teach!
Also another good experience we had this week, was at one of our "Why I Believe Firesides" last night. These Firsides are organized by President, and aimed for those who are investigating the church and are new members. We (almost applogetically) invited one of our gators whose boyfriend is a returning member to this meeting not expecting them to go because it was in Rockledge (an hour and a half away). But she wanted to come really badly! It was such a great meeting. Elder Kopishke (?) from the 70 came and organized a Q and A with a crowd 400+ people. Brenda (our gator) was so engaged. At the end of the meeting she saw people approaching Elder Kopishke to shake his hand, and she elbowed me and said "I have to ask him a question!". She started to make her way forwards while I tried to push my way through people to tell her that she could try but he is very busy. But once he saw her he pulled her aside and they had a 15 minute chat! I don't know what was said, but it just made my heart grow to see that such a special, busy, important representative would recognize the concern of my dear Brenda! It certianly has made me think of the people I bike past when I am in a hurry to get to an appointment- if a general authority can pull aside one woman amongst a crowd of 400+ people trying to snag a moment to shake his hand, then I can contact everyone I pass by to give them the chance they need to feel of the Light of Christ!
Yesterday was Missionary Sunday, where one missionary from each companionship was asked to speak. In sacrament, I was asked to speak on charity. I felt so guided and inspired as I was looking into the faces of my ward members. So many of them are recent converts. In the moment of teaching I realized that my soul has never been so heavy than to see some of them fall, but my joy has never been so great to see them teach, serve, and build up one another.
Mom- can you send me Jenny's email address- I have been thinking so much about her!
Monday, March 9, 2015
transfers! Keep praying!
Wow, everyone sounds amazing. Mom, I am so sorry to hear you have felt so sluggish. I am so grateful to have such a supportive, productive, goal oriented family. I haven't felt very surprised out here, and I owe that a lot to the home I have grown up in. FYI, I haven't gotten a letter yet, but tomorrow at our transfer meeting (yes, Sis Arsenault is being transferred) they will give us our mail so I’m, assuming will get it then.
Well, Sis Arsenault is being transferred. It really wasn't a surprise. It really is good timing. I finally feel like in the last couple weeks, ward members have begun to trust me. 5 of our 10 gators have been referrals- it's really a big deal. We recently had a stake meeting with all bishops and ward mission leaders invited to be trained more in the significant role the ward play in gaining and retaining converts. One thing President Berry mentioned. was that missionaries will be in areas longer to gain the trust of those they interact with- and in looking at how long sis a and her own trainer were in Deland before, I ink it's safe to assume I will be here for a while- good thing I love it here!!!! Nevertheless, Sis A and I have become best friends. We work so hard! My heart is heavier than I thought it would be- but I am ready to embrace whatever wonderful sister may be mine tomorrow!!!!!!
This week has been so fast- because we were pretty confident that sis a would be leaving, we made sure to go out with a bang. We had many neat experiences. One in my mind that sticks out is with Stephanie. For a whole bunch of different reasons, we haven't been able to see her for the last 2 and half weeks- but before then had been teaching her for about a month and a half. However despite our frequent and good visits, she is always stumped with who God is and his nature- but wouldn't pray to find out. And right after coming from our ZTM (aka Zone Training Meeting- also where I was asked to do another training!) we felt determined and prompted to go to her home right after and invite her to pray, or else we weren't sure if we would be able to see/teach her any time soon because she wouldn't be progressing. We just dropped in, she was pleased to see us, and when we asked her if we could open with a prayer she cheerfully said “oh yes! Can I say it?" We were floored. She said a beautiful, natural flowing, sincere prayer. Then she told us that she has prayed every day since we last saw her and she feels like that is why things have just been working out for her lately. Her countenance looked lighter as well! After that we had a great discussion about the characteristics of our Father in Heaven and the order of prayer.
Also this week, we both sang in church as a farewell- actually it was just a sneaky way to get a lot of people who really love us to church :) We sang "In this very room". It was really beautiful and there was a wonderful spirit. Yesterday was a busy day (Sunday's always are as we always feel like chickens with their heads chopped off), but especially so because of sis a leaving. In case you haven't noticed- everyone loves her! Our last visit was to a family that we love so dearly, but would also like to strangle for not making any changes. The spirit was incredible- now for anyone reading this I want to give a disclosure that missionary work invites a constant spirit if your living worthy of it- but is very still and simple- even when amazing things were happening. I have found that it's very rare to feel a powerful and obvious manifestation of the spirit- it has happened to me on a literal handful of occasions ON MY MISSION but I have still had many spiritual experiences. And interestingly, this visit was one of those times when the spirit was so obvious. But it was different, it felt like amazing energy Turing inside me but it also felt very uncomfortable. As a missionary on the Lords errand, I was terrified because I knew I my heart that it was time to testify and to chastise. I didn't know how to say what I knew I needed to out of fear to offend, but knew that the spirit felt so discomforting because some members of that beautiful family weren't living up to the covenants that they have knowingly made. However, as the words spilled from me I was assured that they were not offended, but being affirmed of the changes they need to make.
It's been so nice if there was ever a moment when I didn't know an answer to something to reassure myself with “it’s okay- I'm training right now" BUT today's the last day I can say that! The longer I am put I am realizing how really there isn't one missionary who knows how everything works. We are all always training.
I know that my father in heaven is a living magnificent all-knowing God. I am so grateful to know that despite his power and glory that I can't even begin to comprehend; he has still asked us to address him as Father. Every night, in some form or another, it is my prayer that others come to this same incredible understanding!!!! If someone is doubting at home, PRAY. In my mind, The fact that to prayer is a commandment tells us much more about who god is. He wants to hear from us. Our prayers will not change gods mind or influence his plan- his plan is already set. Its simple- he wants us to become like him, and to be as happy as he is. As we pray we will fell strengthened, we will have mysteries unfolded to us, we will feel loved and understood, and we will hear him speak to us. Pray pray pray!!!!!
Love us, gotta go! Decide to pray is week, and stay strong!
Also this week, we both sang in church as a farewell- actually it was just a sneaky way to get a lot of people who really love us to church :) We sang "In this very room". It was really beautiful and there was a wonderful spirit. Yesterday was a busy day (Sunday's always are as we always feel like chickens with their heads chopped off), but especially so because of sis a leaving. In case you haven't noticed- everyone loves her! Our last visit was to a family that we love so dearly, but would also like to strangle for not making any changes. The spirit was incredible- now for anyone reading this I want to give a disclosure that missionary work invites a constant spirit if your living worthy of it- but is very still and simple- even when amazing things were happening. I have found that it's very rare to feel a powerful and obvious manifestation of the spirit- it has happened to me on a literal handful of occasions ON MY MISSION but I have still had many spiritual experiences. And interestingly, this visit was one of those times when the spirit was so obvious. But it was different, it felt like amazing energy Turing inside me but it also felt very uncomfortable. As a missionary on the Lords errand, I was terrified because I knew I my heart that it was time to testify and to chastise. I didn't know how to say what I knew I needed to out of fear to offend, but knew that the spirit felt so discomforting because some members of that beautiful family weren't living up to the covenants that they have knowingly made. However, as the words spilled from me I was assured that they were not offended, but being affirmed of the changes they need to make.
It's been so nice if there was ever a moment when I didn't know an answer to something to reassure myself with “it’s okay- I'm training right now" BUT today's the last day I can say that! The longer I am put I am realizing how really there isn't one missionary who knows how everything works. We are all always training.
I know that my father in heaven is a living magnificent all-knowing God. I am so grateful to know that despite his power and glory that I can't even begin to comprehend; he has still asked us to address him as Father. Every night, in some form or another, it is my prayer that others come to this same incredible understanding!!!! If someone is doubting at home, PRAY. In my mind, The fact that to prayer is a commandment tells us much more about who god is. He wants to hear from us. Our prayers will not change gods mind or influence his plan- his plan is already set. Its simple- he wants us to become like him, and to be as happy as he is. As we pray we will fell strengthened, we will have mysteries unfolded to us, we will feel loved and understood, and we will hear him speak to us. Pray pray pray!!!!!
Love us, gotta go! Decide to pray is week, and stay strong!
"DeLand of Promise"
Another week gone by!!!
Dad, it is so wonderful to hear that you have a new job! I am so glad to hear everyone's excitement over it- I have been praying for you. And Baseball is full time! Sis A and I often talk about how baseball was the name of the game at home and have tried to see if there was some game going on on a P-Day. Though I see tournaments going on, nothing happens on Monday nights yet- I miss being watching it! Play hard boys- I can't wait to see you all dominate the feild when I get home! And Miss Ellie May. I have thought about you so much this week- just finish girlfriend! There are so many fun things around the horizon- just a couple months away and you'll be on a college campus and the home will be full of smelly boys ;). So many changes- and yet, they are all good and exciting! I also am so jealous that Sherri Dew spoke at our stake. Mom, I love that you said there is nothing to hide about our faith- because there isn't! I have found that when I am approached by people that are trying to be contentious and bring up things that can be controversial, the best thing to do is to own whatever history in our church that they are referencing and testify- no use in trying to explain things that we don't fully understand, or try to make reason for God's mind. The church is always true!
This week so many wonderful things have happened this week. Sis Arsenault and I have had many choice experiences where we have seen several people that we have interacted with for quite some time (members, nonmembers alike) finally take a step this week. We FINALLY gained have a new progressing gator named Brenda! She is the girlfriend of one of our ward members and loves the sisters (we have visisted her for about the last year), but never wanted to really discover anything for herself. Angelica Delgado (daughter of our recent convert Diane) experienced the spirit touching her heart this week! It was such a frustrating experience, because we went to her home with another spanish family in our ward, and the whole time the two moms were gabbing in spanish and the kids were running around. I couldn't even hear the own message I was trying to share. Yet, we continued on TRYING to help Angelica recognize the need for a Restored Gospel. However, there was a moment where we shared the first vision (a shoe-in for inviting the spirit), and her eyes widened. Things seemed to stop just for that one moment- I know she was pricked. YES! Another members of our Ward, Anthony Sanchez (P.s. you can delete these names, I really only put them in because my journalling is lacking (despite my effort to keep up) and I want to remember all these people and their experiences), who is preparing to prepare for a mission was able to bless the sacrament.
Also this week, we got a call late Wednesday night saying that one of the sisters in our Zone had to go to a meeting in Orlando so her comp, Sis Quinton (my MTC comp), would need to tag along with another companionship for the next day- and that she would be coming the following morning! WAHOO!!! Reunited with my only two companions every- it was such a fun day. One neet experiences we had that day, was we finally extended a baptismal date to Kim, a lady who (like Brenda) we have been non-commitally seeing over the last 6 months. We got a firm maybe. Haha, but the spirit was so powerful. We were all teaching in unity. I felt super silly as she opened her door and saw three girls on her door step, but between the three of us the spirit generated so much energy in her home.
To answer some questions- getting sick. Well, if your too sick to go out, then you can stay home. But it is such a hard thing to do when you have pain-stakingly scheduled appointments with other people- making them ASSURE you that they will be there. If I can help it, I never want to have to miss a day of this work- it's so exciting and always changning- I would feel so behind if we had to cancel plans for a whole day! Also, can you tell me what money I have on my personal card? Sometimes I try to use it and it won't work on certain occassions. I think I am okay on money right now, I just want to know how much I have, so I can be aware and smart. LOVE YOU ALL.
P.S. A little somethin' something' that I learned this week:
D&C 4:3 "Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work" I wish that I hadn't spent so much time trying to figure out when God wanted me to go on a mission- because I wanted to go on a mission. This week I have considered the question Elder Zwick asked each of us- "What am I willing to change in order to become a more effective disciple of the Lord, Jesus Christ?" I want to invite whomever may read this letter the same question- What are you willing to change in order embrace whatever calling or responsibility you hold? Just act! Act with purpose!
Seriously- Love each of you!
Dad, it is so wonderful to hear that you have a new job! I am so glad to hear everyone's excitement over it- I have been praying for you. And Baseball is full time! Sis A and I often talk about how baseball was the name of the game at home and have tried to see if there was some game going on on a P-Day. Though I see tournaments going on, nothing happens on Monday nights yet- I miss being watching it! Play hard boys- I can't wait to see you all dominate the feild when I get home! And Miss Ellie May. I have thought about you so much this week- just finish girlfriend! There are so many fun things around the horizon- just a couple months away and you'll be on a college campus and the home will be full of smelly boys ;). So many changes- and yet, they are all good and exciting! I also am so jealous that Sherri Dew spoke at our stake. Mom, I love that you said there is nothing to hide about our faith- because there isn't! I have found that when I am approached by people that are trying to be contentious and bring up things that can be controversial, the best thing to do is to own whatever history in our church that they are referencing and testify- no use in trying to explain things that we don't fully understand, or try to make reason for God's mind. The church is always true!
This week so many wonderful things have happened this week. Sis Arsenault and I have had many choice experiences where we have seen several people that we have interacted with for quite some time (members, nonmembers alike) finally take a step this week. We FINALLY gained have a new progressing gator named Brenda! She is the girlfriend of one of our ward members and loves the sisters (we have visisted her for about the last year), but never wanted to really discover anything for herself. Angelica Delgado (daughter of our recent convert Diane) experienced the spirit touching her heart this week! It was such a frustrating experience, because we went to her home with another spanish family in our ward, and the whole time the two moms were gabbing in spanish and the kids were running around. I couldn't even hear the own message I was trying to share. Yet, we continued on TRYING to help Angelica recognize the need for a Restored Gospel. However, there was a moment where we shared the first vision (a shoe-in for inviting the spirit), and her eyes widened. Things seemed to stop just for that one moment- I know she was pricked. YES! Another members of our Ward, Anthony Sanchez (P.s. you can delete these names, I really only put them in because my journalling is lacking (despite my effort to keep up) and I want to remember all these people and their experiences), who is preparing to prepare for a mission was able to bless the sacrament.
Also this week, we got a call late Wednesday night saying that one of the sisters in our Zone had to go to a meeting in Orlando so her comp, Sis Quinton (my MTC comp), would need to tag along with another companionship for the next day- and that she would be coming the following morning! WAHOO!!! Reunited with my only two companions every- it was such a fun day. One neet experiences we had that day, was we finally extended a baptismal date to Kim, a lady who (like Brenda) we have been non-commitally seeing over the last 6 months. We got a firm maybe. Haha, but the spirit was so powerful. We were all teaching in unity. I felt super silly as she opened her door and saw three girls on her door step, but between the three of us the spirit generated so much energy in her home.
To answer some questions- getting sick. Well, if your too sick to go out, then you can stay home. But it is such a hard thing to do when you have pain-stakingly scheduled appointments with other people- making them ASSURE you that they will be there. If I can help it, I never want to have to miss a day of this work- it's so exciting and always changning- I would feel so behind if we had to cancel plans for a whole day! Also, can you tell me what money I have on my personal card? Sometimes I try to use it and it won't work on certain occassions. I think I am okay on money right now, I just want to know how much I have, so I can be aware and smart. LOVE YOU ALL.
P.S. A little somethin' something' that I learned this week:
D&C 4:3 "Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work" I wish that I hadn't spent so much time trying to figure out when God wanted me to go on a mission- because I wanted to go on a mission. This week I have considered the question Elder Zwick asked each of us- "What am I willing to change in order to become a more effective disciple of the Lord, Jesus Christ?" I want to invite whomever may read this letter the same question- What are you willing to change in order embrace whatever calling or responsibility you hold? Just act! Act with purpose!
Seriously- Love each of you!
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Don't worry! Tuesday was my temporary p-day for week :)
Hey family! I am sorry for your worry- I am doing great! We had a mission conference in Orlando with Elder Zwick of the 70 and Bro Hemingway. Consequently, p-day was moved to Tuesday just for this week- I apologize that I forgot to tell you. But e meeting was incredible- my notes are chicken scratch. It's amazing that the more responsibility you hold in the church the more chastisement you receive, but also gain revelation for the needs of ones you interact with, and feel deeper love for the lord, his ministry, and his people. I will try to to type quickly so I can give you all the best highlights from the week- there were so many!
First of all, I a, glad to hear that it's snowed in my home town! And mom, despite you looking at the weather reports of it being in the 30s-60s here, it had felt freezing. Because the air is very thick, when it freezes it goes right through you- so it was a great thing that we have been so busy is week! In regards to the work we are apart of over here, E___ is progressing so well! We showed up to our last lesson with another member from our Ward to find that he had the bible and Book of Mormon opened. He had written down questions, and was so honest with us about his concerns, his actions, and obstacles. Reading the scriptures works!!! I see him becoming lighter- but I also see him becoming more vulnerable as he is coming off the drugs and his relationships are very unstable. He even texted us this morning to confirm that we are coming over agin tomorrow!
Also, I had decided after my first few weeks in the mission that I wouldn't write home about anyone u less we had taught them several times because so often we would have to drop them the next week for noncommittal reasons. But this week we me a man named E (different name - starts with "Ë"), who I think deserves an exception. He was a referral from a family in our Ward. We went over to their home for dinner on Sunday to eat with E____ and the members' family. The spirit was so present, we were able to understand the things Ed needed to hear and were able to have a very short powerful lesson on faith and leave quickly. We very boldly told him our expectations for him (read, come to church, schedule another appointment) and left him with much to think about. We had plans to call him several days later, but to our surprise he called us the next day and said that had has been reading the part in the Book of Mormon that we assigned him and he wants to meet with us! He asked if we had plans for this evening! We in turn asked him if he wanted to do the lesson at the members home that he was just at, but he responded that he doesn't know so he will call them and schedule it then let us know! It's a rare thing that people keep their first commitments, let alone call us, and take the initiative to plan our schedule!!!
Sis Arsenault and I have been on fire. We are such good friends! This mission conference has been amazing. To our surprise, much of it was on the destruction of pornography. But it was nonetheless very relevant, and very powerful. Elder Zwick of the 70 came to our mission, because we are again a test mission for a new program with the iPads- like I am sure you know, everyone in the us, Canada, and several other countries will be required to buy their own iPad soon. My heart sunk when I heard that. But, it is such an incredible resource- a huge blessing in Missionary work. But as I mentioned s while back, Elder Zwick spoke at the MTC when I was there- and ironically at that time I had been kind of disappointed with the message given because it was all about protecting ourselves and, our companions. But at one point in the mission conference, elder z asked everyone that had been present at his talk to stand. So all of us newbies hesitantly stand in front of her whole mission. One by one he began to single us out on what we remembers of his talk and what insight we had gained. I was last. I think I could here my heart beating through my chest. He looked at me and said- we need a strong comment. We need a final comment that can enlighten us. He the asked me a question about a specific part of his a talk in the MTc (I was relieved that it was on the only thing that I could recall clearly). I don't even remember what I said. I know I said something suitable- but man, I couldn't hear anything anyone had to say for the next 10 min. I was called out by an elect of the lord in front of r whole mission!!!!!! But it was an amazing meeting. I will have to type up and send you my notes in it next week.
My heart has been struck with gratitude and admiration for the priesthood leadership within my area. As I have considered the revelation I have received from my district leader, zone leaders, Bishop, stake pres, mission pres, I have realized that it has come because we are worthy to receive the promptings of the spirit. There have been many moments where I have not felt qualified to be apart of this work, but I suppose that is how all of us feel. After experiencing the mission conference I walked away with a new drive to be obedient- knowing that it is the only thing I can control. And through my obedience the spirit will be present in my every moment- allowing me to understand what others need.
Ahhh, time flies. I wish I could tell you everything about what I am, learning and experience out here. But know that I love you, and pray for many of you at home by name every day. I pray that you are remaining steadfast, are feeling strong and happy. I filled with love and pride in the things that are happening in good ol' lindon. I love you all
First of all, I a, glad to hear that it's snowed in my home town! And mom, despite you looking at the weather reports of it being in the 30s-60s here, it had felt freezing. Because the air is very thick, when it freezes it goes right through you- so it was a great thing that we have been so busy is week! In regards to the work we are apart of over here, E___ is progressing so well! We showed up to our last lesson with another member from our Ward to find that he had the bible and Book of Mormon opened. He had written down questions, and was so honest with us about his concerns, his actions, and obstacles. Reading the scriptures works!!! I see him becoming lighter- but I also see him becoming more vulnerable as he is coming off the drugs and his relationships are very unstable. He even texted us this morning to confirm that we are coming over agin tomorrow!
Also, I had decided after my first few weeks in the mission that I wouldn't write home about anyone u less we had taught them several times because so often we would have to drop them the next week for noncommittal reasons. But this week we me a man named E (different name - starts with "Ë"), who I think deserves an exception. He was a referral from a family in our Ward. We went over to their home for dinner on Sunday to eat with E____ and the members' family. The spirit was so present, we were able to understand the things Ed needed to hear and were able to have a very short powerful lesson on faith and leave quickly. We very boldly told him our expectations for him (read, come to church, schedule another appointment) and left him with much to think about. We had plans to call him several days later, but to our surprise he called us the next day and said that had has been reading the part in the Book of Mormon that we assigned him and he wants to meet with us! He asked if we had plans for this evening! We in turn asked him if he wanted to do the lesson at the members home that he was just at, but he responded that he doesn't know so he will call them and schedule it then let us know! It's a rare thing that people keep their first commitments, let alone call us, and take the initiative to plan our schedule!!!
Sis Arsenault and I have been on fire. We are such good friends! This mission conference has been amazing. To our surprise, much of it was on the destruction of pornography. But it was nonetheless very relevant, and very powerful. Elder Zwick of the 70 came to our mission, because we are again a test mission for a new program with the iPads- like I am sure you know, everyone in the us, Canada, and several other countries will be required to buy their own iPad soon. My heart sunk when I heard that. But, it is such an incredible resource- a huge blessing in Missionary work. But as I mentioned s while back, Elder Zwick spoke at the MTC when I was there- and ironically at that time I had been kind of disappointed with the message given because it was all about protecting ourselves and, our companions. But at one point in the mission conference, elder z asked everyone that had been present at his talk to stand. So all of us newbies hesitantly stand in front of her whole mission. One by one he began to single us out on what we remembers of his talk and what insight we had gained. I was last. I think I could here my heart beating through my chest. He looked at me and said- we need a strong comment. We need a final comment that can enlighten us. He the asked me a question about a specific part of his a talk in the MTc (I was relieved that it was on the only thing that I could recall clearly). I don't even remember what I said. I know I said something suitable- but man, I couldn't hear anything anyone had to say for the next 10 min. I was called out by an elect of the lord in front of r whole mission!!!!!! But it was an amazing meeting. I will have to type up and send you my notes in it next week.
My heart has been struck with gratitude and admiration for the priesthood leadership within my area. As I have considered the revelation I have received from my district leader, zone leaders, Bishop, stake pres, mission pres, I have realized that it has come because we are worthy to receive the promptings of the spirit. There have been many moments where I have not felt qualified to be apart of this work, but I suppose that is how all of us feel. After experiencing the mission conference I walked away with a new drive to be obedient- knowing that it is the only thing I can control. And through my obedience the spirit will be present in my every moment- allowing me to understand what others need.
Ahhh, time flies. I wish I could tell you everything about what I am, learning and experience out here. But know that I love you, and pray for many of you at home by name every day. I pray that you are remaining steadfast, are feeling strong and happy. I filled with love and pride in the things that are happening in good ol' lindon. I love you all
Monday, February 16, 2015
Exchanges and a Temple Trip!
First of all, Happy Birthday TREY! I sent a little somthin' somethin' for you today- I am sorry it's late. Second of all, I love the messages that were sent and wish I could respond to everything but am so low on time because our p-day has been wild since our car broke down and we were stranded in the rain and we also have an early dinner appointment soon. P-days are not quite the relaxing day I thought they would be because there is always so much to do, and because we are in a car share we have to accommodate the other sisters as well- but we do our best to make sure that we include some activity during the day so we feel like we can take a little break.
Probably the highlight of the week was the exchange that took place on Saturday with our Sister Training Leaders. This is where there is a split between both companionships, and I either stay or go to a different area with one Sister Training Leader for one evening and one day. I was just thinking about how weird it is to consider that I have been out two months (which really feels no different than 1 month), when I had to leave my area for the first time. But I was pleasantly surprised to see how comfortable I feel in the mission field. It was such a great exchange- I didn't realize how hard I had been working till I saw the other sisters area. I didn't think much of biking 6 miles just to get to our area until I realized that in other areas missionaries can come home for an hour for lunch and dinner, and they don't bike a third of the miles we do!! I left exchange feeling very satisfied that I haven't tried to ease into my adjustment as a missionary. On this exchange, we were able to find and contact so many people, and I believe the difference in that days success was that we had discussed earlier in the day that we would envision success in each task, and indeed every conversation felt purposeful and were never discouraged.
Quick noteworthy hints- This week we also had Zone Training Meeting (ZTM) which of-course was so inspiring. I was asked to participate in the musical number along with the other sisters. We took pics for the church using our iPads which may or may not go in the ensign (keep an eye out). We found at that we will be holding a mission conference at which Pres Swick will be speaking (incidentally the same member of he 70 that spoke will I was at the MTC) in a couple weeks.
This week was not a fantastic numbers week as much of our time was spent with members trying to get referrals, and consequently this week I think we will be changing tactics. However, we were able to spend sufficient time with the Delgados this week as again we frequently see them because of Diane's new member lessons and Angelica's discussions. However, after reviewing Angelica's progress I think we are going to encourage her to be baptized in a couple weeks- not sure about the date yet.
We were also able to go on a temple tour with one of the less active families in our Ward. This was something that had been planned for a month, and was a very sweet occasion. I love visiting the Orlando temple. Their family has already been sealed, but nevertheless feels comfortable being a teetering family. Their circumstance is not an original one out here in Deltona, and I am unsure how to bring a sense of urgency to change their content attitude towards church attendance, reading scriptures, and daily prayer. So this temple trip was very tender, and they even consented to singing I love to see the temple right outside the temple doors.
I have tried to type as fast as I could for as long as I had, but I really have to go. Stay strong and hold down the fort!
Probably the highlight of the week was the exchange that took place on Saturday with our Sister Training Leaders. This is where there is a split between both companionships, and I either stay or go to a different area with one Sister Training Leader for one evening and one day. I was just thinking about how weird it is to consider that I have been out two months (which really feels no different than 1 month), when I had to leave my area for the first time. But I was pleasantly surprised to see how comfortable I feel in the mission field. It was such a great exchange- I didn't realize how hard I had been working till I saw the other sisters area. I didn't think much of biking 6 miles just to get to our area until I realized that in other areas missionaries can come home for an hour for lunch and dinner, and they don't bike a third of the miles we do!! I left exchange feeling very satisfied that I haven't tried to ease into my adjustment as a missionary. On this exchange, we were able to find and contact so many people, and I believe the difference in that days success was that we had discussed earlier in the day that we would envision success in each task, and indeed every conversation felt purposeful and were never discouraged.
Quick noteworthy hints- This week we also had Zone Training Meeting (ZTM) which of-course was so inspiring. I was asked to participate in the musical number along with the other sisters. We took pics for the church using our iPads which may or may not go in the ensign (keep an eye out). We found at that we will be holding a mission conference at which Pres Swick will be speaking (incidentally the same member of he 70 that spoke will I was at the MTC) in a couple weeks.
This week was not a fantastic numbers week as much of our time was spent with members trying to get referrals, and consequently this week I think we will be changing tactics. However, we were able to spend sufficient time with the Delgados this week as again we frequently see them because of Diane's new member lessons and Angelica's discussions. However, after reviewing Angelica's progress I think we are going to encourage her to be baptized in a couple weeks- not sure about the date yet.
We were also able to go on a temple tour with one of the less active families in our Ward. This was something that had been planned for a month, and was a very sweet occasion. I love visiting the Orlando temple. Their family has already been sealed, but nevertheless feels comfortable being a teetering family. Their circumstance is not an original one out here in Deltona, and I am unsure how to bring a sense of urgency to change their content attitude towards church attendance, reading scriptures, and daily prayer. So this temple trip was very tender, and they even consented to singing I love to see the temple right outside the temple doors.
I have tried to type as fast as I could for as long as I had, but I really have to go. Stay strong and hold down the fort!
Monday, February 2, 2015
I am sharing a message that is supposed to be tested!
Wow- I just love you all!
I am so glad that you saw the spot on Orlando FL Mission! I didn't know about it until it was released, and I haven't been able to see it because I can't go anywhere on the internet unless it is on lds.org, mormon.org, or facebook. Bummer. But Sis Krienberg was the first Sister Missionary that I met coming off the plane to a dinner that they had prepared at the church for all the new-coming missionaries- she is just as bubbly and positive as I am sure she was represented. I am so lucky to be in this mission.
Real Quick- I have meant to say this every single week, but just haven't been able to come around to it. It's a no go for the family to come out to FL while I am on my mission. This is something that was explicitly explained. Basically, I need to come home and be released- no exceptions- unless they change the rules :). I am of-course welcome to come back and visit everyone and go to all the fun Orlando hot spots with my family- and have even begun to discuss that with some of the people we see and teach because they want to meet my amazing family! This week has been a good week. We have taught more lessons this week than before- I love being with a companion that wants to work hard, follow the rules, and love everyone. Seriously, we accomplish so much. We are such good leaders, followers, and teachers together. However, there have been some challenging moments this week because we have had 2 recent converts and 1 member that has just begun coming around really take a turn for the worse this week. It has been so hard to see a transformation of people that I knew and were bright jsut a couple weeks ago, but because of poor choices, reading destructive material, and avoiding the standard CPR (church, prayer, read scriptures) have dulled thier sensativity to the spirit, questioned that they ever had a testimony, and have a hard time recognizing the truth that we share with them personally. When you feel so devoted to an area and a people, it takes a toll. However, prayers were answered (like they always are) and we have been able to remain focussed on finding those who are ready to progress!
It's funny because I get to the end of each week and think to myself, Man, I love car/bike week- do I have to switch again? This week was car week- I love it because we JAM to our EFY/MO-TAB/or One Girl Nation (a girl christian pop band- a cd that Diane gave us :) ) in between the hard moments. It also is a nice relief to not have to be active all day. BUT- it is also getting easier riding a bike. I have noticed that I am seeing lines in my legs that haven't ever seen there before (aka- MUSCLE!) But it always takes a couple days to warm up to riding all-day-err-day and to get used to being sore. However, I really love biking and talking to alot of people- also people take more pitty on us when we are on our bikes and are willing to speak with us.
This week I have been PREACHIN' that Spiritual truths come to us through Holy Ghost but most often as a result of personal prayer. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you……" were the words of the Savior as he concluded the Sermon on the Mount. Mormon quoted the Savior saying "And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you." We become His people through earnest, heartfelt prayer. This is a message that is suppossed to be tested. Though it breaks my heart to see that some just refuse and even lie about their own efforts in discovering this truth, all those moments are quickly forgotten as I have also seen others come to the knowledge that the Plan of Salvation is real and they are apart of it.
I love this work! Keep workin' hard at home!
Sister Earl
P.s.
This morning we were doing our usual thing. Got up at 6:30, exercised, cleaned up a little bit, hoped in the shower- but just as I was getting out of the bathroom Sis Arsenault began screaming (like a man with a gun is in our apartment screaming) like a mad woman. I ran around the corner to find her backed up again (almost sitting on) our kitchen counter. Turns out what had happened was while she was cooking our turkey bacon a HUGE cock-roach had crawled up behind the stove. Naturally, I was no help. I (only in my robe) shoved on my tennis shoes and got on my bed. After discussing our options we tried to call our district leader but he wouldn't answer his phone, so we decided after quickly putting clothes on to go get the other elders in out district who live across the street. To make a long story short the elders left our apartment 30 min later killing 3 cockroaches that were were about 2 inches long!!!!! Haha, I have to go, but I thought you would enjoy the story knowi that things are never dull in Florida!!!!!
Real Quick- I have meant to say this every single week, but just haven't been able to come around to it. It's a no go for the family to come out to FL while I am on my mission. This is something that was explicitly explained. Basically, I need to come home and be released- no exceptions- unless they change the rules :). I am of-course welcome to come back and visit everyone and go to all the fun Orlando hot spots with my family- and have even begun to discuss that with some of the people we see and teach because they want to meet my amazing family! This week has been a good week. We have taught more lessons this week than before- I love being with a companion that wants to work hard, follow the rules, and love everyone. Seriously, we accomplish so much. We are such good leaders, followers, and teachers together. However, there have been some challenging moments this week because we have had 2 recent converts and 1 member that has just begun coming around really take a turn for the worse this week. It has been so hard to see a transformation of people that I knew and were bright jsut a couple weeks ago, but because of poor choices, reading destructive material, and avoiding the standard CPR (church, prayer, read scriptures) have dulled thier sensativity to the spirit, questioned that they ever had a testimony, and have a hard time recognizing the truth that we share with them personally. When you feel so devoted to an area and a people, it takes a toll. However, prayers were answered (like they always are) and we have been able to remain focussed on finding those who are ready to progress!
It's funny because I get to the end of each week and think to myself, Man, I love car/bike week- do I have to switch again? This week was car week- I love it because we JAM to our EFY/MO-TAB/or One Girl Nation (a girl christian pop band- a cd that Diane gave us :) ) in between the hard moments. It also is a nice relief to not have to be active all day. BUT- it is also getting easier riding a bike. I have noticed that I am seeing lines in my legs that haven't ever seen there before (aka- MUSCLE!) But it always takes a couple days to warm up to riding all-day-err-day and to get used to being sore. However, I really love biking and talking to alot of people- also people take more pitty on us when we are on our bikes and are willing to speak with us.
This week I have been PREACHIN' that Spiritual truths come to us through Holy Ghost but most often as a result of personal prayer. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you……" were the words of the Savior as he concluded the Sermon on the Mount. Mormon quoted the Savior saying "And whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, which is right, believing that ye shall receive, behold it shall be given unto you." We become His people through earnest, heartfelt prayer. This is a message that is suppossed to be tested. Though it breaks my heart to see that some just refuse and even lie about their own efforts in discovering this truth, all those moments are quickly forgotten as I have also seen others come to the knowledge that the Plan of Salvation is real and they are apart of it.
I love this work! Keep workin' hard at home!
Sister Earl
P.s.
This morning we were doing our usual thing. Got up at 6:30, exercised, cleaned up a little bit, hoped in the shower- but just as I was getting out of the bathroom Sis Arsenault began screaming (like a man with a gun is in our apartment screaming) like a mad woman. I ran around the corner to find her backed up again (almost sitting on) our kitchen counter. Turns out what had happened was while she was cooking our turkey bacon a HUGE cock-roach had crawled up behind the stove. Naturally, I was no help. I (only in my robe) shoved on my tennis shoes and got on my bed. After discussing our options we tried to call our district leader but he wouldn't answer his phone, so we decided after quickly putting clothes on to go get the other elders in out district who live across the street. To make a long story short the elders left our apartment 30 min later killing 3 cockroaches that were were about 2 inches long!!!!! Haha, I have to go, but I thought you would enjoy the story knowi that things are never dull in Florida!!!!!
Monday, January 26, 2015
First Temple Trip!
I never know where to start with emails! But Way to Go Ellie-May! Qualifying for State! And DALLIN for being so worn out from working hard! I am so proud of you guys. I love that Mo and Steph were in Orlando! I am pretty sure the rule is that you can't see people when they come to Florida- but I have heard of people just running into them (....?) and it being okay because it wasn't planned. I just like sticking to the rules though- I like feeling confidant that am being obedient- and can expect to see miracles because of it. I loved the package you sent this week- its so hard to keep track of days here, but by the time that the mission office had received it and forwarded it to me, I am pretty sure I received it on Friday or Saturday. Thank you for the camera! I will put it to fast use and be sure to send you pics- I know its something that you look for :) I will be sure to figure it out!
First and foremost- Transfers. We are sticking together! Mom, its funny that you say that there was a lot of "guessing and plotting" when you were on a mission, because nothing has changed. For my companion, this means that she will be in Deland for HALF of her mission because this has been her first area. I know she is frustrated at how long she is here, but at the same time we get along so well, and really have learned how to make up for one another's strengths and weaknesses in teaching. We make a power house pair. I love being with her.
This week our focus going into the week was FINDING. We had 72 contacts!!! (We usually have 30-45) This is usually accomplished through tracting. A very common characteristic of a Florida home is that everyone has a screened garage that is always opened and used as living space. So it's so great to be in neighborhoods with many small close homes, because that is usually how we find people. I love knocking doors- its hard to be frustrated when you expect people to reject the message. And I feel so blessed to live in an area where SO many people want to talk about Jesus Christ. So I think that in this particular part of the world, missionaries receive rejection a little less because generally people want to discuss our common ground and respect our efforts.
We really only have 3-4 Progressing Gators each week, and then the remainder of our Gators rotate a lot because they generally are those who are very new to the discussions and still trying to keep commitments. But lately, with D____ being baptized (!), we have spent much time at her home teaching her daughter (who has a baptismal date now for 2.14.15) and trying to soften up her husband. I love their family, and they love us. We probably got to their home 3-4 times a week to accommodate all the lessons we need to accomplish with D____'s new member lessons and teaching Angelica. Their family is so easy to love (they are a very warm Spanish family) and they have made a point of attending church every week for the last several months so the ward is really getting to know and welcome them. I hope I am here long enough to see them all be baptized- R_____ will be the tricky one because of the changes he will need to make in his life. But he has already mentioned on many occasions (as they attend church every week and he usually ends up standing someone and bearing "testimony" for 10 minutes in priesthood or sunday school) that he feels the truth of this church and loves his family being apart of it.
We got to go to the Temple this week! Man, it was wonderful. All the missionaries go to very early sessions in the months of January and July. We actually got a ride with one of the ladies in our Ward, and she really made sure we had a special day. It was so neat to be in such a full session with my fellow missionaries. Even the temple workers looked especially alert and excited because the spirit was so present. I wish I could go more often. The day was full of inspiration. I was so impressed with the purpose we have been designed for. My relationship with my Father in Heaven has deepened in such a special way out here. I feel like I am just in a conversation with him through out the entire day because we say so many prayers and literally receive revelation for what others should hear and experience as we speak to others. In feeling for His love for me, I feel greater love for those I teach and pass by. I feel so blessed to be His instrument right now!
Until next week familia! Keep reading your scriptures- I feel so powerful when I do every morning! Love you ALL!
First and foremost- Transfers. We are sticking together! Mom, its funny that you say that there was a lot of "guessing and plotting" when you were on a mission, because nothing has changed. For my companion, this means that she will be in Deland for HALF of her mission because this has been her first area. I know she is frustrated at how long she is here, but at the same time we get along so well, and really have learned how to make up for one another's strengths and weaknesses in teaching. We make a power house pair. I love being with her.
This week our focus going into the week was FINDING. We had 72 contacts!!! (We usually have 30-45) This is usually accomplished through tracting. A very common characteristic of a Florida home is that everyone has a screened garage that is always opened and used as living space. So it's so great to be in neighborhoods with many small close homes, because that is usually how we find people. I love knocking doors- its hard to be frustrated when you expect people to reject the message. And I feel so blessed to live in an area where SO many people want to talk about Jesus Christ. So I think that in this particular part of the world, missionaries receive rejection a little less because generally people want to discuss our common ground and respect our efforts.
We really only have 3-4 Progressing Gators each week, and then the remainder of our Gators rotate a lot because they generally are those who are very new to the discussions and still trying to keep commitments. But lately, with D____ being baptized (!), we have spent much time at her home teaching her daughter (who has a baptismal date now for 2.14.15) and trying to soften up her husband. I love their family, and they love us. We probably got to their home 3-4 times a week to accommodate all the lessons we need to accomplish with D____'s new member lessons and teaching Angelica. Their family is so easy to love (they are a very warm Spanish family) and they have made a point of attending church every week for the last several months so the ward is really getting to know and welcome them. I hope I am here long enough to see them all be baptized- R_____ will be the tricky one because of the changes he will need to make in his life. But he has already mentioned on many occasions (as they attend church every week and he usually ends up standing someone and bearing "testimony" for 10 minutes in priesthood or sunday school) that he feels the truth of this church and loves his family being apart of it.
We got to go to the Temple this week! Man, it was wonderful. All the missionaries go to very early sessions in the months of January and July. We actually got a ride with one of the ladies in our Ward, and she really made sure we had a special day. It was so neat to be in such a full session with my fellow missionaries. Even the temple workers looked especially alert and excited because the spirit was so present. I wish I could go more often. The day was full of inspiration. I was so impressed with the purpose we have been designed for. My relationship with my Father in Heaven has deepened in such a special way out here. I feel like I am just in a conversation with him through out the entire day because we say so many prayers and literally receive revelation for what others should hear and experience as we speak to others. In feeling for His love for me, I feel greater love for those I teach and pass by. I feel so blessed to be His instrument right now!
Until next week familia! Keep reading your scriptures- I feel so powerful when I do every morning! Love you ALL!
Monday, January 19, 2015
Find, find, find!
It is so good to hear from you! It's no surprise to me that
Easton has
all the swagger he needs (if not more) to complete a 4 hour
test and
still be on top of the world. How was Lauren's meet? Has she
qualified
for state? And I LOVED hearing that Dallin is going to EFY
with
Tanner- that will be a blast!
This week we got the car again! Because both sets of
missionaries in
each Ward have been on the same car/bike schedule, we took
the car
again so that the Ward doesn't have to worry about
transporting two
sets of missionaries around to different appointments when we
are on
our bike weeks. I always feel bad having to request
that Ward members
come with us to lessons on our bike weeks because I know it
is
inconvenient, but when we are on our bikes we can only get so
many
miles and go so fast. But one of the perks being with a comp
that has
been in the Ward for over 6 months and is very bubbly, is
that people
are more willing to drive around cute tired sisters than
needy elders
:) however, we are only allowed 900 miles a month so we are
always
needing help which is why I have really enjoyed having a comp
that has
such strong relationships with many members.
Transfers are coming up! Because the training program is 12
weeks
long, I am supposed to be with my comp for at least one more
transfer.
But my comp is so amazing and has been here so long, and on
top of
that we missed a call from our mission president which is
always big
news-whether it be good or bad. We are thinking she may be
asked to be
a Sister Training Leader - in which case I may have a new
companion
and be the one that has to lead in he area!!! We both hope
that
doesn't happen- but I will embrace whatever happens!
Well this week has been a slower week, but still a very busy,
encouraging week. I am really beginning to love my comp and
how we
teach together. However this week was the first week of many
to come,
where even the fourth backup plans don't follow through.
Nothing on a
mission is tedious- plans are always changing and we are
always going
different places. Most of our week was spent trying to bike
all over
town to only find that people are canceling appointments. My
comp is
easily frustrated with rejection- I am so glad I had a year
at Vivint
to readjust my expectations of people making commitments. We
did find
three other investigators this week, but really we have to
drop people
just as quickly as we find them for the lack of people not
willing to
keep commitments- but it's all part of the plan so I really
don't get
too frustrated. Overall, I feel very happy on a mission
though. I
catch myself smiling all the time despite the disappointment
that
comes alongside working with people that don't want to
progress in the
work.
This week I have had a lot of interaction with the
missionaries in our
zone, partly because we got assigned a senior couple in our
Ward!!!!
There names are the Boyntons from Orem UT, and were
previously mission
presidents in Italy. They will be here in our Ward for the
remainder
of their mission- we are SO lucky to have them. We have also
been
trying to work out how we will all be going to the temple
this
Friday!!! I have been looking forward for this ever since I
found out
that every January and July all the missionaries attend very
early
sessions just with other missionaries. I think me and my comp
will end
up being early at the temple around 5:30 am because of our
ride
situation. But we are both so excited to have an entire
morning to be
at the temple- we are counting down the days!
This week I had a really neat experience when we taught a
less active
member in our Ward. As I was listening to her speak all I
could think
of was that I did not know what to say. But then I had a
conscious
thought to just let go of my own worry and just open my
mouth. It's
like a tunnel opened from heaven, and I was speaking things I
have
never even considered before. She began tearing up and just
expressed
her longing for happiness and her new enthusiasm to attend
church. I
feel so blessed to have been the instrument in that
situation.
I am beginning to embrace the missionary mentality. I am so
much more
sensitive to the spirit, which has also led me to being more
sensitive
to the things of this world. I love that people recognize me
as
'different'. When we are on our bikes in skirts with helmets,
or at a
store wearing our name tags we get a lot of heads turning
with
curiosity. But I love being a representative of Jesus Christ.
I love
you all- I hope you have a wonderful week!
Monday, January 12, 2015
D_____'s Baptism and 4 New Gators!
It's so good to hear from you all! I am just sitting here
chuckling to
myself at all the things that are keeping everyone busy at home! I am
sorry to hear about Mallory coming home early- Mom, will you please
let her know that I read every letter she sent home and what an
example I think she is? Please and thank you!
Today has been fun because we have had a district p-day. My district
(2 sets of elders and sisters) went to IHOP this morning and then went
bowling. We will also be attending the temple next Friday with our
zone! ( we get to do that on every 6 months). It's been good to be
able to look forward to doing things with other missionaries- it helps
me be more motivated to use all my time and energy throughout the week
knowing that I will have some time to slow down later.
It has been a good week. We accomplished many of our goals this week.
Our gator pool has changed some throughout the week. With D___
getting baptized, knowing we would have to drop at least one and maybe
more of our investigators, we really wanted to find at least 3 other
gators. We found 4 this week! And depending on getting approval from
Pres Berry to teach specific individuals, we may have 2 more to add on
top of that!!! 3 was already going to be a stretch, yet it just goes
to show that if your on the Lord's team, he will make sure His work is
accomplished. However it didn't come without some work. With the
exception of the 2 girls that we have been teaching, every one of our
investigators we have (or have to) drop for varying reasons. And
despite the disappointment we sometimes feel when we have to drop
people, I have never been nervous to hit my goals. Just Knowing that I
am on the Lord's errand has allowed me to expect miracles. Although it
hasn't been long that I have been out, I can already reflect on many
occasions where things just pulled through- and this week was no
different.
First of all, it was such a blessing to be a part of D____'s baptism
this week. She consumed much of our week as we finished teaching her
and coordinated her program. We had about 35 people show up and we had
a nice Spanish meal afterwords. The Spirit was strong, and after all
was about to be finished and done, her husband hoped up unannounced
and bore his testimony of his love for his family and the truth he
feels this gospel contains. We are confidant that in the next few
months we can continue to teach and baptize their family- I believe
that we will begin teaching her 10 year old daughter this week!
Secondly, I feel that several of our new investigators are pretty
solid. We got C____ back! Turns out he has been taught by missionaries
before, and even attended church for 6 months after the missionaries
stopped teaching him! We haven't been able to get to the bottom of
that whole story yet, but regardless I just pray that he feels a
desire and urgency to act this time around. We also had a really good
lesson with our new Gator named J____. If he worked at Vivint, he
would fit right in the the baseball crew. He looks like JC (the beard
and all) but acts like Justin Shutt. He is super cool. Eventually our
lesson became a parallel with baseball. Probably the coolest analogy
we shared was that baseball is the only game were you play defense but
the ball is in your hands-Dad, I thought you would appreciate that :)
I have really enjoyed seeing myself become a different teacher with
each person I speak with. There have been many times where I have had no
clue what question to ask, what gospel principle to teach, or even how
to console someone. But because I just opened my mouth, it was filled
according to their needs. My affirmation this week has been 1 Nephi
7:12. Regardless of our weakness, Let us be Faithful to Him!
Real quick here are some noteworthy items:
- I haven't sent any pics because I need to buy a chip to load my pics
on to the computer. But because you said you would send my other
camera, I didn't want to buy two different chips. Mom- it's good
advice to label your pics sooner than later. If I have time, I will
try to print them out at Walmart and label them then try to send them
home.
- it's been cold this week. I couldn't tell you the temp, but with
humidity it's almost irrelevant because it feels much colder.
Sometimes I forget to bring a jacket because it is always sunny, but
you actually really need one here! The rain comes every day but it is
mostly constant light rain- you can see it but not really feel it.
It's really beautiful.
- I print my letters each week to maximize the hour that have to
email. (So dad- you can send the journal entries if it works out ;) )
Really I just want everyone to know that I feel I have a front row
seat to the greatest miracle of all- the effect of Christ's Atonement
on individuals and families! Love you all!
myself at all the things that are keeping everyone busy at home! I am
sorry to hear about Mallory coming home early- Mom, will you please
let her know that I read every letter she sent home and what an
example I think she is? Please and thank you!
Today has been fun because we have had a district p-day. My district
(2 sets of elders and sisters) went to IHOP this morning and then went
bowling. We will also be attending the temple next Friday with our
zone! ( we get to do that on every 6 months). It's been good to be
able to look forward to doing things with other missionaries- it helps
me be more motivated to use all my time and energy throughout the week
knowing that I will have some time to slow down later.
It has been a good week. We accomplished many of our goals this week.
Our gator pool has changed some throughout the week. With D___
getting baptized, knowing we would have to drop at least one and maybe
more of our investigators, we really wanted to find at least 3 other
gators. We found 4 this week! And depending on getting approval from
Pres Berry to teach specific individuals, we may have 2 more to add on
top of that!!! 3 was already going to be a stretch, yet it just goes
to show that if your on the Lord's team, he will make sure His work is
accomplished. However it didn't come without some work. With the
exception of the 2 girls that we have been teaching, every one of our
investigators we have (or have to) drop for varying reasons. And
despite the disappointment we sometimes feel when we have to drop
people, I have never been nervous to hit my goals. Just Knowing that I
am on the Lord's errand has allowed me to expect miracles. Although it
hasn't been long that I have been out, I can already reflect on many
occasions where things just pulled through- and this week was no
different.
First of all, it was such a blessing to be a part of D____'s baptism
this week. She consumed much of our week as we finished teaching her
and coordinated her program. We had about 35 people show up and we had
a nice Spanish meal afterwords. The Spirit was strong, and after all
was about to be finished and done, her husband hoped up unannounced
and bore his testimony of his love for his family and the truth he
feels this gospel contains. We are confidant that in the next few
months we can continue to teach and baptize their family- I believe
that we will begin teaching her 10 year old daughter this week!
Secondly, I feel that several of our new investigators are pretty
solid. We got C____ back! Turns out he has been taught by missionaries
before, and even attended church for 6 months after the missionaries
stopped teaching him! We haven't been able to get to the bottom of
that whole story yet, but regardless I just pray that he feels a
desire and urgency to act this time around. We also had a really good
lesson with our new Gator named J____. If he worked at Vivint, he
would fit right in the the baseball crew. He looks like JC (the beard
and all) but acts like Justin Shutt. He is super cool. Eventually our
lesson became a parallel with baseball. Probably the coolest analogy
we shared was that baseball is the only game were you play defense but
the ball is in your hands-Dad, I thought you would appreciate that :)
I have really enjoyed seeing myself become a different teacher with
each person I speak with. There have been many times where I have had no
clue what question to ask, what gospel principle to teach, or even how
to console someone. But because I just opened my mouth, it was filled
according to their needs. My affirmation this week has been 1 Nephi
7:12. Regardless of our weakness, Let us be Faithful to Him!
Real quick here are some noteworthy items:
- I haven't sent any pics because I need to buy a chip to load my pics
on to the computer. But because you said you would send my other
camera, I didn't want to buy two different chips. Mom- it's good
advice to label your pics sooner than later. If I have time, I will
try to print them out at Walmart and label them then try to send them
home.
- it's been cold this week. I couldn't tell you the temp, but with
humidity it's almost irrelevant because it feels much colder.
Sometimes I forget to bring a jacket because it is always sunny, but
you actually really need one here! The rain comes every day but it is
mostly constant light rain- you can see it but not really feel it.
It's really beautiful.
- I print my letters each week to maximize the hour that have to
email. (So dad- you can send the journal entries if it works out ;) )
Really I just want everyone to know that I feel I have a front row
seat to the greatest miracle of all- the effect of Christ's Atonement
on individuals and families! Love you all!
Monday, January 5, 2015
1 Month Down!
Man, time goes by so fast here! This email will probably be so
disorganized, but I will do my best to tell highlight just
some of the many things that have happened this week! It has been such a
good week. As a companionship we have never taught so many lessons in one week
and we are able to teach with much more unity. We had a trainer/trainee follow
up meeting where I got to see all of the missionaries that came out with me and
received my IPAD! I had my first zone training meeting, where I was asked to do
a training (?!). And we met a new investigator named Jordan that I really
see some potential with.
In our mission we call our investigators "gators". Haha, I think it is super cute. Right now we have 5. We have a set of sisters (13 and 10) that want to be baptized, but because of divorce complications they will not be able to until 2016- but we continue to teach them anyway! D____ (who I wrote you about several weeks ago) is going to be baptized on the 10th! It has been challenging to get her to the end of this week. This whole week she has been cancelling our appointments last minute and even left town on the fly 3 days before her baptismal interview. We hadn't been able to get a hold of her till the night before her interview, which had been arranged with someone from our mission presidency weeks ago. But despite telling her the date and time of the mission interview once more for the following morning, the morning came and D____ still hadn't picked us up like she told us she would. To make a long story short, we ended up getting a member to drive us to her house where we woke her, her daughter and grandmother dressed and fed in 20 minutes and made it to the interview. But after the interview, it was incredible to see the glow that D____ had about her. It has been interesting to see the change in someone develop a testimony of the restored gospel, being that she had already known and worshiped Christ. Also noteworthy is that we found a new gator this week named Jordan. She is a young mother of two, but terribly needing this gospel. I can tell her heart has been prepared. Her story is very powerful. She has gone from losing several children and hating god, to needing to rely on him as she has learned that her whole family can live together forever in harmony and peace. The other gator we have is a man that I think we will have to drop for not keeping our commitments. It seems like a heavy thing to do, but know that in not spending our time with those not prepared to change that we can find those who are ready to act! And because you asked, Chris never responded to our texts and calls which is to bad, but very common. He also wouldn't answer the door when we came by again.
In our mission we call our investigators "gators". Haha, I think it is super cute. Right now we have 5. We have a set of sisters (13 and 10) that want to be baptized, but because of divorce complications they will not be able to until 2016- but we continue to teach them anyway! D____ (who I wrote you about several weeks ago) is going to be baptized on the 10th! It has been challenging to get her to the end of this week. This whole week she has been cancelling our appointments last minute and even left town on the fly 3 days before her baptismal interview. We hadn't been able to get a hold of her till the night before her interview, which had been arranged with someone from our mission presidency weeks ago. But despite telling her the date and time of the mission interview once more for the following morning, the morning came and D____ still hadn't picked us up like she told us she would. To make a long story short, we ended up getting a member to drive us to her house where we woke her, her daughter and grandmother dressed and fed in 20 minutes and made it to the interview. But after the interview, it was incredible to see the glow that D____ had about her. It has been interesting to see the change in someone develop a testimony of the restored gospel, being that she had already known and worshiped Christ. Also noteworthy is that we found a new gator this week named Jordan. She is a young mother of two, but terribly needing this gospel. I can tell her heart has been prepared. Her story is very powerful. She has gone from losing several children and hating god, to needing to rely on him as she has learned that her whole family can live together forever in harmony and peace. The other gator we have is a man that I think we will have to drop for not keeping our commitments. It seems like a heavy thing to do, but know that in not spending our time with those not prepared to change that we can find those who are ready to act! And because you asked, Chris never responded to our texts and calls which is to bad, but very common. He also wouldn't answer the door when we came by again.
I really am loving Florida. I am seeing things here that still
surprise me. It now seems very ordinary to see cranes crossing the street,
people parking in the grass, sidewalks abruptly ending, and safari like
landscapes. But more so, I didn't realize that so much of my mission would be
working with members. Much of our time is spent trying to get a hold of people
to accompany us to lessons, and drive us different places. In turn, they
certainly utilize the missionaries every Sunday. This includes playing the
piano for all the meetings. I am literally the only one that can play both
hands together. So many have approached me to let me know how grateful they are
that I can play, and lately my response has been "Don't thank me, thank my
parents- they made me practice". Haha, but seriously, I am so grateful I
can site-read well because I have had to jump in for music numbers and am
playing in all other meetings throughout the day.
I am doing really well. One thing that keeps me positive and
motivated throughout the week are the meetings our district have once a week. I
have noticed that on a mission, everything feels heightened (success,
failure, strengths, and weaknesses). So it is so encouraging to have time set
aside every week to uplift one another, set goals, and practice things that do
and don't work. In our area we have 12 sets of missionaries, so it's common to
pass by several each week. I love knowing that I am part of the Lord's errand
with so many others! Ultimately I have seen a real change come about in myself
this week as my focus has no longer been to do "missionary-like"
things, but Christ-like things. I have been better at discerning without
judgment, studying my scriptures with more intent. I initially thought the
missionary work would be more about driven contacting, hustling in all my
works so that I can maximize my time and energy for the next 18 months- since I
know it will go by quickly. But the longer I am here, I can see that missionary
work is much more about learning to embrace correction, and worrying about
energy management (what I dwell on) rather than my time management.
I love being an ordained missionary for the Lord. I love
my companion. We can always sing, talk about our families, and have fun with
one another and other missionaries/members, while still being primarily focused
on our contacts and gators. I am grateful to know that this gospel is a simple
one. And I love seeing the change come about in others as they
develop their testimony of the Restored Gospel. Keep reading your scriptures!
:)
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