Dear Mom,
The wildfires are raging here in the Valley. Thank goodness it's up on the hills north of my area and very northeast of us. We're sitting in the middle part of it so we're mostly unaffected. No worries, until it starts to head towards Northridge I wouldn't worry at all. But, I've been smelling ash and smoke for the past day including today. There are helicopters going in and out all day and all night. So basically the fires are raging. Several thousand acres of uninhabited land has been scorched and some rich people's houses have been burned pretty bad. We were at a member's house yesterday playing tennis and she showed us the news. Those palm trees burn real fast! The Valley was covered in smoke most of yesterday morning. Man, I can't stand the smell of ash in the air. Apparently it gets like this a lot. I haven't had to deal with it because I went to Sta. Clarita after their raging fires that were really crazy and before the Valley ones started. So...here I am!
By the way, what was the last picture I sent you? I can't remember because my memory card is getting full and I don't know which ones I can delete so...just describe or attach it so I can delete them and start anew. But, I have some sweet pictures for you all!
The work is going so well. Very well, actually. A few ups and downs, but mostly ups. The Lord is preparing this area and I probably will just be the beginning instruments of such success. I feel this is my mandate, to finish strong here and hope for the best! Mike is doing great, and our Korean woman unfortunately is going through financial difficulties so she's put us on hold for now until it's all fixed. But, she's doing well considering the circumstances.
By the way, our less active (but now very active and rolling fast it's crazy ridiculous) Luna family met with the bishop last week and they're almost ready to go to the temple. When the bishop called me to let me know...I was in shock. I didn't know what to do, yell, scream, or throw things...I was puzzled of how I should react. So I just calmly told Woods with a big grin on my face. Soon accompanied by a bigger grin on his face. In six weeks, of consistent attendance to church and activities, they're to take the six week temple preparation class and then soon afterwards go to the temple to be sealed for all time and eternity. The wheels are turning, the car is rolling, and we are on our way to the temple! I'm so excited!
Highlights! So we basically cleaned up the sister missionaries apartments last p-day and most of the next day because it was A MESS! Woods and I weren't going to let that apartment go in that mess, so we helped the sisters clean it up. It took almost all day to do it, but at the end...we were like...yes, another dirty elder's apartment is officially clean! Last p-day we used a carpet cleaner to clean ours, then the next morning we cleaned another elder's apartment, then the sister's to finish it off. It was amazing! The rest of the day was non-existent. Showered, dressed, went to dinner with our really vocal Gospel Doctrine teacher (he thinks he knows it all) and went around trying to visit some investigators and stuff with Elder Sara in Sherman Oaks ward (he's training a greenie so his greenie came in on Wednesday- he was stuck with us!). Got to meet some really cool families and people in the end. And we had a sweet Nerf gun fight all night. It was very entertaining to say the least.
Wednesday! We were in Sherman Oaks most of the day just cruising around trying to contact investigators for Sara and we had mixed success. But, I admit, there are some crazy people in his area. When we contacted on Ventura Blvd., there were some crazy people. Well, we met an Argentine who talked with his hands like the Italians did. He told us his life story, so we couldn't really contact him about the Gospel. We did our best so...it was weird. We dropped him off so he could go to Sta. Clarita to pick up his greenie (who is a good, humble kid from St. George Utah, Elder Frei (or Fry as it's pronounced)). We ate with our high councilman, Bro. Calderon, and we talked about how we can get the missionary work started and stuff. We did get a brand new ward mission leader so we're on a roll right now. We went on team-up with youth AC Black, who loves to do missionary work whenever he has time. He's going to be one heck of an elder when his time comes. His brother is just as amazing. We visited a less active who had a stroke and is terminal with brain cancer, so we taught him to pray and it was a great lesson. We prayed in a circle for him, first me, then Woods, then AC. He didn't feel comfortable praying with us three so he thanked us instead. He says to give him time...I don't know about that but I gave up so we'll not pressure him as much. Pretty sweet stuff.
Thursday! We took Sara and Frei shopping in the morning because they had no food, but we gave one of their less actives a blessing because her wisdom tooth got infected and she didn't treat it so now it's spread to her throat. Her fault. Not pain-free at all. We went to a member's house to update our area book maps and they fed us a delicious lunch of grilled cheese sandwiches. Yum! We had a Q&A with a ward missionary, Sister Ulloa of Costa Rica, and shared a thought. Zoomed to Susan Lar because she freaked out the other night. Some scripture she kept reading creeped her out, so damage control with the Spirit did the job. Superstitious Filipinos...but she's doing great now. Just a little scare. Our dinner was full of fun and we just get along with these loving members. The 'other' Picketts, Dave and Cyndi (Jared is Dave's older brother and is more outgoing, thus the 'other' label). Little kid Mikey loves to play with Woods so he's sitting on him and stuff. Really fun to watch. We committed them to read the scriptures and they said they will, 3rd Nephi 18. They've changed. They had a great spiritual experience when we committed them to pray for guidance for work, and so they listen to us now. We zoomed to the Lunas and taught them the Gospel lesson from Preach My Gospel. They knew it all. We just had to hammer in the details for them. Along with our sweet object lesson, Senor Huevo (Mr. Egg). We get a Gatorade bottle and a boiled egg. We put the egg in...doesn't work. Do you have faith? Repent! Peel the eggshell off...still can't fit. Baptism! Dip it in water. Still doesn't go in. Baptism of Fire! Put some rubbing alcohol in there and light a match. Throw it in, it lights up, and you immediately (after the flame disappears) put it on top...the egg gets sucked inside the bottle. The egg endured to the end to get in the bottle! Really cool demonstration and it worked! So that was our great day!
Friday was super busy. We had the first tri-zone district leader training meeting and I was so pumped to go out and work and convert everyone! We had our development meeting and ended up planning what we are going to do in our district meetings. We had zone council...and met stiff opposition from missionaries who wanted to do it their way, meaning they didn't want to work as a zone. So that was difficult to say the least and the Spirit was gone. So it was a waste of time. The rest of the day rocked though! We taught Mike and he's still pumped for baptism so I'm excited for him when it happens (it'll be a while). We knocked some doors and street contacted along a street. We usually don't do that. But we went to a referral the day before, talked to him, then started to knock his neighborhood then the first person we meet suggests we knock a street further down because she took a walk around there and she heard arguments and stuff. So we had some great contacts...that night and the next day (Friday). We had some great chili for dinner with our Ward Mission Leader Bro. Kline and we did a simplified overview of the ward mission for him. He's a bit overwhelmed, but his commitment is there. He wants to help missionary work. A great organizational meeting and we walked out of there just excited for this transfer! We went to see the Lunas at their softball game since it's on our way home. Really funny. We couldn't find them at first so we call them. Their daughter picks up and is all tired then gives us which field to go to. We get there (this is right before we go in for the night) and say hello and the wife Cindy is so happy to see us. We say 'How's it going Bro. Luna?' and he just laughs and smiles nervously as he goes to bat. That expression was priceless. Must've been thinking...family...friends...wife...missionaries...nervous..don't mess up. They told us the next day that they won, but barely. Just a great day and a great time. I love to work!
By the way, the winds are picking up because it's fire season. Intense! Saturday was full of appointments. Seven appointments. Crazy. Susan was reading a basic book on the Plan of Salvation that a member gave her, a Q&A book, so that was an easy lesson. She knew it all. James Warner, the less active who didn't like to pray, was doing alright I guess and he said he'll work on public, vocal prayer. We visited an older man, Bill Cox, and he's struggling right now due to financial difficulties. The state won't pay him anymore, even though they owe him. So he's in a bind and says he knows what he has to do, but he knows now it isn't easy. We encouraged him as best as we could. We got lunch and took care of all our stuff and went to Abel Gomez, a former investigator. He was stubborn as heck. He accepted prophets, then contradicted himself. He said I can't accept Joseph Smith as my Savior. Woods went over prophets again and emphasized Joseph Smith was a prophet, not a savior. Abel said the same thing. I interrupted him and bore my witness that Joseph Smith was a prophet, God called him to do a work, and through God's power we have the Book of Mormon. It wasn't me talking, it was the Spirit working through me. He shut up his objections and listened to this chastisement of the Spirit. I felt different, because I know the Spirit was working through me to get to his own spirit. I was prompted to testify that his baptism meant nothing without the authority that Joseph Smith received from Jesus Christ himself. He will not be saved without a proper baptism. I basically condemned him...because the Spirit wanted me to. It was powerful. Bold. Honest. But, in a loving manner. We left, and if he wants to listen, he'll call us. I wasn't myself, because I knew Abel needed to hear something that didn't come from me, but from His Father in Heaven. I walked outside with Woods, and we were in awe and amazement. The Lord's tender mercies. I felt like Joseph defying the vulgar jailors, and I am grateful for that opportunity I had to allow the Spirit to testify to a stubborn son of God. From that we visited Bruce and had a hard time with another less active family whose father wants to fight the bishop. His wife was sarcastic but honest, said, 'but we're missing the temple' due to their inactivity. He brushed her off. We had the best time with the Lunas, teaching the Commandments and the priesthood to Junior. It was so fun, but very spiritual. He knows it all, he just has to review it all. The Lord's work won't be stopped.
Sunday was even greater! We fasted to double convert baptisms and the Spirit really uplifted us both. My understanding was opened and I just felt the Spirit all day long. I was hungry, yes, but I was spiritually fed. We went contacting after church and wow! We contacted with the Spirit even stronger than before! Feeding off the Spirit! We had a great dinner with the Sanders, who want to be more diligent in home teaching and a great family home evening with the Lunas. We had a great lesson on following the prophet and Word of Wisdom, and played some fun games. The Lord sent me here to find the Lunas and bring them back. I don't remember what I said, but it made a difference. The Lord's tender mercies, indeed. Their daughter Stephanie wants to pray, and that makes them proud. Cindy thought she wouldn't when she volunteered, but when she repeated Cindy's words, Cindy was suprised. And I know she was touched to know her family was changing to be strong in the Gospel.
I know this work is the Lord's. I love my Savior. I know he loves all his children on the earth. Stay strong, be diligent and vigilant, and all will be well!
I love you all. Talk to you soon!
Love,
Spencer
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
October 6, 2008
Dear Dad,
General Conference was great! I missed priesthood session because my comp had a virus and took a nap instead. It could've been food poisoning or something. But, it was a great conference. Our recent convert Susan went, as did the less active but now active Lunas and our other less active from Argentina. I felt edified and uplifted by their talks and I just loved it! Elder Neil Andersen's talk was fabulous. Pres. Uchtdorf was great and full of hope. Literally. Pres. Monson was spectacular in his delivery, as usual. Pres. Eyring was full of enthusiasm, love, and encouragement. Elder Oaks laid the hammer down, especially when he said that some Saints violate the covenants they're making in the same place they're making these covenants. Ouch. Elder Wirthlin was full of love and of joy, and I guess he'll be passing beyond the veil soon. Laugh, seek to endure, understand the law of compensation, and put your faith and trust in the Lord. "Come what may and love it." What better messages for us than these! Honestly, I hope the Saints in SoCal will take this advice to heart, but knowing the complacity of this stake over here, it'll be a long, drawn-out process.
Numbers-wise our week wasn't the greatest, but we used our time effectively and did the Lord's work. We are finding new investigators here and there, and the Lord is providing for us. There is no way that these people could drop into our laps. He gave us another blessing in that we're both staying until November 16th. I was so elated and relaxed to know that my efforts will continue here until then. What'll really stink is next transfer- Christmas AND Thanksgiving! If I get moved, I'll miss them both in a ward I have grown to love dearly. Our members were so glad to hear us say, 'by the way, we're staying.' Sister Cindy Luna said, "Oh, okay. Wait! (it dawned on her) You're both staying? Yes!" On a side note, President saw the lack of work ethic in some of my elders (I didn't really notice until transfers) and he's whitewashing our proud and richer wards in our stake. I hope the sister missionaries that they put in are up to the task. That's going to be weird. Sister missionaries in my district for the second time in my mission I'm serving for the Lord. Weird. Today I'll be running around the Valley moving in the sisters and picking up another elder because he's training (and greenies come in on Wednesdays). Crazy busy transfer p-day! About the tickets, technically we're supposed to pay it together, but I didn't ask Woods to pay because I should've seen the sign. The next time, I will definitely ask him. He says to Mom thanks for the generous gift.
I have learned so much about myself. I didn't realize how aggravated I get sometimes when things don't go my way. I never realized how stress can really affect mood, attitude, work ethic, etc. This General Conference helped me realize those weaknesses, as well as Elder Woods' support and encouragement, and I have seen a slight change. Elder Woods brought up one day how judgmental and pessimistic I am at times. So, I took it in, and the next day I studied the topic, 'to judge others'. A very humbling, but touching, learning experience. With the same judgment we use to judge, we will be condemned by it. As one of the authorities said, who is our Judge? Doesn't he do the same for us, to just turn the other cheek and to ignore our own faults? Am I perfect enough to judge? A resounding no. I felt humbled and chastised sufficiently, and I am so grateful my companion pointed it out and encouraged me to do better. I have learned so much as I studied Preach My Gospel of how to teach those without a Christian background. I've been diligently studying this section most of last week using the scriptures that are in PMG (sounds like an automatic pistol or something). I have not only learned from great teachers like Ammon, and Aaron, and Alma, and Amulek, but I have strengthened my witness of the Book of Mormon. I love the scripture quoting Aaron teaching Lamoni's father, 'O king, as thou livest there is a God' or something along those lines. I learned how the Spirit can help us not only teach, but to expound the scriptures. To simplify them, as Pres. Taylor said, so even a child can understand the doctrine. I learned, that we must teach by the Spirit, we must love our people as did these great missionaries, we must pray to have success and pray to love these people as well as their salvation. I learned that if we boldly declare repentance, people will change if it is their desire. I learned that God fulfills His promises to all. I learned a ton, needless to say. I read 2nd Nephi chapter two this week, and it was edifying to my own testimony. There is no other way whereby man shall be saved, save it be through the Holy Messiah. Without opposition in all things, there can be no joy, nor sorrow. General Conference also highlighted the things I learned this past week. We are to act, not to be acted upon. I see now that by studiously searching the scriptures my understanding will be opened by the Spirit and the Lord will guide me in whatever I do. I love the Lord and His word.
A brief summary of this past week. My exchange with another elder was not the most effective use of my time, to say the least. It 'sufficeth' (as the scriptures say) to say that it wasn't the greatest exchange I've ever had. But, I learned what NOT to do as a planner. Our Wednesday was busy, as usual, as was our Thursday. Appointment to appointment. We finally got to start on updating our Area book stuff since our ward list changes a ton, and that took much longer than expected. But, we got the majority done this week. We had a quick weekly planning session due to time constraints (or lack of time) and our appointments went pretty darn well. We helped Betsy set up her place for Halloween. The Lunas got us edible spiders and stuff for Halloween. We had two sweet appointments with them. Thursday we had a shaky lesson because we didn't plan the details as well, but it was a tender mercy of the Lord. We went from agency to sabbath day observance. I felt alone testifying since we didn't plan very well (my bad), but the Spirit was there to help me. He supported me as I related how Sunday is a holy day for me, and how I feel recharged for the week to come. They told us they set up an appointment with the bishop to set up a timetable to go to the temple. President Goodrich told me unless there's a huge problem, it's either 1-3 or 3-6 months for most less actives. Yeah! They're on a roll! Oh yeah, that night I get home and President calls me...he's coming to my district meeting! Oh my gosh! I only heard of him going to district meetings, let alone my own meeting! But, I gave my trainer fair warning and he was already prepared. Nothing to worry.
Friday was nervous...but it went well. Elder Sara did a great and very meticulous training on lesson plans. He had us plan with a companion we're not used to and put it into effect. One named Orcutt has a tendency to say 'kind of' a lot. Woods looked at me funny during his role-play (Orcutt and Tayler teaching Pres. and Sis. Goodrich) and began to count something. At the end, I asked him what he counted. At least twenty times Orcutt used 'kind of', even in describing doctrine. It was pretty funny. We had a sweet appointment with Mike, who loved 3rd Nephi 18 about the sacrament and prayer. He soaked it up. He's still committed to be baptized, we'll have to wait on it though. We had a great dinner with a family from Eritrea (next to Ethiopia) and they fed us a ton of food. I could barely move afterwards. We gave a blessing on the house and had to get going. Our next appointment fell through so we waited outside a little, to relax for a little because we were on the go most of the day. It was cool, foggy, just reminded me of home. I look up and see airplanes flying into Bob Hope airport and just see their lights illuminating the fog. It was beautiful, just a foggy night. The sky was purple-ish, orange-ish...it was magnificent to see the beauty of God's creations. How could people not believe in God? I now understand why Pres. Uchtdorf loves airplanes, they're magnificent and beautiful in flight.
Post-priesthood session on Saturday (which I spent in the apartment since Woods was sick...I ended up talking to my converts via phone for a bit so it was great) we ate dinner and watched "The Mountain of the Lord" movie. I never realized how simple it is in the explanation of the temple and yet very powerful. I testified about temples to the best of my ability, and I was waiting for Woods to say something but he didn't. Wow...they're excited. Bro. Junior Luna even went to priesthood session when we didn't go! He liked it a lot! Wow...tender mercies.
God upholds the faithful priesthood holder, as Pres. Eyring said. I completely agree. I am imperfect, but I do my best. God will remember you, as He remembered Rachel, as Elder Condie said a few conferences ago. I have a witness, a strong testimony, of the truthfulness of this Gospel. As Elder Godoy said yesterday, it's not a great occurrence that changed me. It was gradual. Step by step. But I do not doubt that God exists, that Jesus is the Christ, that God has called Thomas S. Monson as our living prophet today. The Book of Mormon is the word of God that brings all happiness in their lives. I know I am blessed daily by His hand. I am a part of an eternal family that loves me and I love them. God is great! God is merciful! God is my Father that loves me.
I hope you're prepared for this economic crisis. My prayers are with you.
Dad, I love you. Thank you for your selfless service and love. You are an example of charity to me. You live the Gospel. You are my hero, and I will never forget you. Thank you for honoring your covenants and being a faithful and willing priesthood holder. All those times you taught me and encouraged me, just know that they weren't wasted. I love you and miss you dearly. Tell Mom I love her so much and I can't wait to talk to her at Christmastime. Tell the same to Grandma, that she's a great person in my eyes. Tell Steven to be a good boy as he is, and that he's making me proud out here. Tell Kristy that she's doing great out there and that nothing can stop her! She's quite amazing!
May you all stay safe, and I'll talk to you soon! I love you all!
With much love,
Spencer
General Conference was great! I missed priesthood session because my comp had a virus and took a nap instead. It could've been food poisoning or something. But, it was a great conference. Our recent convert Susan went, as did the less active but now active Lunas and our other less active from Argentina. I felt edified and uplifted by their talks and I just loved it! Elder Neil Andersen's talk was fabulous. Pres. Uchtdorf was great and full of hope. Literally. Pres. Monson was spectacular in his delivery, as usual. Pres. Eyring was full of enthusiasm, love, and encouragement. Elder Oaks laid the hammer down, especially when he said that some Saints violate the covenants they're making in the same place they're making these covenants. Ouch. Elder Wirthlin was full of love and of joy, and I guess he'll be passing beyond the veil soon. Laugh, seek to endure, understand the law of compensation, and put your faith and trust in the Lord. "Come what may and love it." What better messages for us than these! Honestly, I hope the Saints in SoCal will take this advice to heart, but knowing the complacity of this stake over here, it'll be a long, drawn-out process.
Numbers-wise our week wasn't the greatest, but we used our time effectively and did the Lord's work. We are finding new investigators here and there, and the Lord is providing for us. There is no way that these people could drop into our laps. He gave us another blessing in that we're both staying until November 16th. I was so elated and relaxed to know that my efforts will continue here until then. What'll really stink is next transfer- Christmas AND Thanksgiving! If I get moved, I'll miss them both in a ward I have grown to love dearly. Our members were so glad to hear us say, 'by the way, we're staying.' Sister Cindy Luna said, "Oh, okay. Wait! (it dawned on her) You're both staying? Yes!" On a side note, President saw the lack of work ethic in some of my elders (I didn't really notice until transfers) and he's whitewashing our proud and richer wards in our stake. I hope the sister missionaries that they put in are up to the task. That's going to be weird. Sister missionaries in my district for the second time in my mission I'm serving for the Lord. Weird. Today I'll be running around the Valley moving in the sisters and picking up another elder because he's training (and greenies come in on Wednesdays). Crazy busy transfer p-day! About the tickets, technically we're supposed to pay it together, but I didn't ask Woods to pay because I should've seen the sign. The next time, I will definitely ask him. He says to Mom thanks for the generous gift.
I have learned so much about myself. I didn't realize how aggravated I get sometimes when things don't go my way. I never realized how stress can really affect mood, attitude, work ethic, etc. This General Conference helped me realize those weaknesses, as well as Elder Woods' support and encouragement, and I have seen a slight change. Elder Woods brought up one day how judgmental and pessimistic I am at times. So, I took it in, and the next day I studied the topic, 'to judge others'. A very humbling, but touching, learning experience. With the same judgment we use to judge, we will be condemned by it. As one of the authorities said, who is our Judge? Doesn't he do the same for us, to just turn the other cheek and to ignore our own faults? Am I perfect enough to judge? A resounding no. I felt humbled and chastised sufficiently, and I am so grateful my companion pointed it out and encouraged me to do better. I have learned so much as I studied Preach My Gospel of how to teach those without a Christian background. I've been diligently studying this section most of last week using the scriptures that are in PMG (sounds like an automatic pistol or something). I have not only learned from great teachers like Ammon, and Aaron, and Alma, and Amulek, but I have strengthened my witness of the Book of Mormon. I love the scripture quoting Aaron teaching Lamoni's father, 'O king, as thou livest there is a God' or something along those lines. I learned how the Spirit can help us not only teach, but to expound the scriptures. To simplify them, as Pres. Taylor said, so even a child can understand the doctrine. I learned, that we must teach by the Spirit, we must love our people as did these great missionaries, we must pray to have success and pray to love these people as well as their salvation. I learned that if we boldly declare repentance, people will change if it is their desire. I learned that God fulfills His promises to all. I learned a ton, needless to say. I read 2nd Nephi chapter two this week, and it was edifying to my own testimony. There is no other way whereby man shall be saved, save it be through the Holy Messiah. Without opposition in all things, there can be no joy, nor sorrow. General Conference also highlighted the things I learned this past week. We are to act, not to be acted upon. I see now that by studiously searching the scriptures my understanding will be opened by the Spirit and the Lord will guide me in whatever I do. I love the Lord and His word.
A brief summary of this past week. My exchange with another elder was not the most effective use of my time, to say the least. It 'sufficeth' (as the scriptures say) to say that it wasn't the greatest exchange I've ever had. But, I learned what NOT to do as a planner. Our Wednesday was busy, as usual, as was our Thursday. Appointment to appointment. We finally got to start on updating our Area book stuff since our ward list changes a ton, and that took much longer than expected. But, we got the majority done this week. We had a quick weekly planning session due to time constraints (or lack of time) and our appointments went pretty darn well. We helped Betsy set up her place for Halloween. The Lunas got us edible spiders and stuff for Halloween. We had two sweet appointments with them. Thursday we had a shaky lesson because we didn't plan the details as well, but it was a tender mercy of the Lord. We went from agency to sabbath day observance. I felt alone testifying since we didn't plan very well (my bad), but the Spirit was there to help me. He supported me as I related how Sunday is a holy day for me, and how I feel recharged for the week to come. They told us they set up an appointment with the bishop to set up a timetable to go to the temple. President Goodrich told me unless there's a huge problem, it's either 1-3 or 3-6 months for most less actives. Yeah! They're on a roll! Oh yeah, that night I get home and President calls me...he's coming to my district meeting! Oh my gosh! I only heard of him going to district meetings, let alone my own meeting! But, I gave my trainer fair warning and he was already prepared. Nothing to worry.
Friday was nervous...but it went well. Elder Sara did a great and very meticulous training on lesson plans. He had us plan with a companion we're not used to and put it into effect. One named Orcutt has a tendency to say 'kind of' a lot. Woods looked at me funny during his role-play (Orcutt and Tayler teaching Pres. and Sis. Goodrich) and began to count something. At the end, I asked him what he counted. At least twenty times Orcutt used 'kind of', even in describing doctrine. It was pretty funny. We had a sweet appointment with Mike, who loved 3rd Nephi 18 about the sacrament and prayer. He soaked it up. He's still committed to be baptized, we'll have to wait on it though. We had a great dinner with a family from Eritrea (next to Ethiopia) and they fed us a ton of food. I could barely move afterwards. We gave a blessing on the house and had to get going. Our next appointment fell through so we waited outside a little, to relax for a little because we were on the go most of the day. It was cool, foggy, just reminded me of home. I look up and see airplanes flying into Bob Hope airport and just see their lights illuminating the fog. It was beautiful, just a foggy night. The sky was purple-ish, orange-ish...it was magnificent to see the beauty of God's creations. How could people not believe in God? I now understand why Pres. Uchtdorf loves airplanes, they're magnificent and beautiful in flight.
Post-priesthood session on Saturday (which I spent in the apartment since Woods was sick...I ended up talking to my converts via phone for a bit so it was great) we ate dinner and watched "The Mountain of the Lord" movie. I never realized how simple it is in the explanation of the temple and yet very powerful. I testified about temples to the best of my ability, and I was waiting for Woods to say something but he didn't. Wow...they're excited. Bro. Junior Luna even went to priesthood session when we didn't go! He liked it a lot! Wow...tender mercies.
God upholds the faithful priesthood holder, as Pres. Eyring said. I completely agree. I am imperfect, but I do my best. God will remember you, as He remembered Rachel, as Elder Condie said a few conferences ago. I have a witness, a strong testimony, of the truthfulness of this Gospel. As Elder Godoy said yesterday, it's not a great occurrence that changed me. It was gradual. Step by step. But I do not doubt that God exists, that Jesus is the Christ, that God has called Thomas S. Monson as our living prophet today. The Book of Mormon is the word of God that brings all happiness in their lives. I know I am blessed daily by His hand. I am a part of an eternal family that loves me and I love them. God is great! God is merciful! God is my Father that loves me.
I hope you're prepared for this economic crisis. My prayers are with you.
Dad, I love you. Thank you for your selfless service and love. You are an example of charity to me. You live the Gospel. You are my hero, and I will never forget you. Thank you for honoring your covenants and being a faithful and willing priesthood holder. All those times you taught me and encouraged me, just know that they weren't wasted. I love you and miss you dearly. Tell Mom I love her so much and I can't wait to talk to her at Christmastime. Tell the same to Grandma, that she's a great person in my eyes. Tell Steven to be a good boy as he is, and that he's making me proud out here. Tell Kristy that she's doing great out there and that nothing can stop her! She's quite amazing!
May you all stay safe, and I'll talk to you soon! I love you all!
With much love,
Spencer
Saturday, January 17, 2009
September 29, 2008
Dear Mom,
I admit that it was weird that Dad called me right before we were going back home for curfew and so I could record district numbers then to fax it to the zonies. I see Woods throw the phone to me and I see 'DON' on it...I was like...Dad? Some other missionaries we ran into on the street were with us and one of them, Elder Larsen, asked, 'who is it?' I said, 'my dad!' So I talked to Dad a little and he just wanted to say hi...that was really a great surprise. I loved it. Larsen had to ask, 'do you get that often?' to which I said 'no.' Haha, a very pleasant surprise indeed!
Elder Woods and I cashed in our checks today so we are LOADED with moolah! Haha, not much. If I keep getting parking tickets it'll drain fast. But, I've really paid special attention to the signs so I doubt I'll get another one. Today we went around taking pictures at the local Catholic mission (been there since 1757 supposedly) and I was going to pay admission to get inside the grounds...but it didn't look really special so we took pictures in the local garden and outside the mission. Really pretty though. I liked it. We found a big chair outside a furniture store and we got pictures there. I'm tired from driving around, but it's a good day to goof off I guess. And, I got a haircut!
Surprise! My third companion, McGahee, got ET'd up to the desert again. Two weeks in Palmdale, three weeks here, then back up to the desert. A Tongan missionary got angry at this other white chubby kid and laid three knockout punches on his face, sending him to the ER with six stitches. The white kid was in my zone before and I don't like him, so I thought he deserved it. So McGahee got a call right before lunch as we're heading home and it was President Goodrich, so we knew he was gone yet again. He was a bit incensed at the fact he never got to finish this transfer in one area, but he was pleased to know that mission president trusts him enough to settle things down. Good luck with that kid Cotti up there. Woods was sad too but he was happy that McGahee was going to go to his old area because after he left there have been some not-so-good elders up there.
Week rewind!
Sunday was pretty busy. We went to church, the wonderful Van Nuys 1st testimony meeting where a woman of Jewish descent was remarking about Pres. Uchtdorf. She said she was a bit unsure about him, being German, but she said 'I'm sure that he's not a Nazi and here to kill off the Jews.' That's something that'll keep you awake. We didn't have Gospel Principles again because we don't have a teacher nor investigators to come to (for the first time since I've been here we had zero investigators to church, but we did get our recent convert to come back to church). We took McGahee to say good-bye to Betsy right after our morning meeting before sacrament, and left class early for him to say his final good-bye to the Lunas...then we got home so the AP's could take him up to Leona Valley. I took a well-needed nap then to work! We ate with the really cool Black family and got to eat delicious pork roast that just fell apart as you jabbed at it...these people know how to cook! Well, the wife is Peruvian. Got to give her credit. Bro. Black put on Sunday Night Football...that was distracting BUT we got him to at least mute it to share a scripture...and it was a good one (Helaman 5:10-11) and then their sons started to argue about how bad the sacrament passing pattern is...but we got out somehow. It was pretty sweet...that family is really kind towards us. I love meeting so many people out here...I know California was for me. We went contacting, ran into Larsen and Garcia, contacted people and walked a drunk guy home with the other guys. Garcia and Woods ended up teaching him how to overcome his addiction while Larsen and I watched...the man was on the bottom step, Larsen and I were above him and the other two were in chairs facing him and facing us. I was a spectator since I have had NO experience helping someone get over addictions. They taught well. Then home, phone calls for numbers, faxed them in...and bed. Tiring. I couldn't sleep since I took a nap. I was a bit stressed considering one of my elders got in trouble with getting too involved with a local member...darn young guys.
Saturday was busy as heck. As was Friday. We were trying to find potentials at home and we went place to place...and we got the call for McGahee's ET on the way home. That was a downer. We met with the Reseda Spanish ward's HPGL Rick Sanchez and he referred some people to us as well as gave us ideas of how we can conduct Bible study in his apartment building (he's the manager). We went to one of the referrals and she invited us in, as well as asked questions on the pre-existence. Rick lent her a book written by Joseph Fielding Smith! And she said it makes sense, growing up Catholic she didn't understand a lot of things. Really cool short lesson. Our next person was home, but spoke Spanish so we told her we'll call her back later...then we went to stop by the Togiola's (less actives) and got to share a scripture with them...and they promised they'll come to church. We'll believe that when we see that. But, they love us and I just wish I could love them with all my heart...but they gotta come to church! The Luna's were way awesome as usual...we ate tortas for dinner and they were amazing! And we took pictures since McGahee was leaving...and had a good time. Swapped stories and just got along great. Cindy, the mom, asked us about temple classes so I just told her to talk to the bishop about it. But, she's excited for it!
Friday! District meeting! Training went well...sorta but we got the job done. We've been pushing more interactive trainings...so we're getting better at it. We trained on how to use the scriptures...and we did well considering it had to be fast and yet powerful. We had the question, 'what is hell? who goes there?' Alma 40 said Elder Woods, and I had no idea on the spot. So I learned something. We had a great appointment with Mike and he is really excited to go through with this...he just doesn't want to move out and leave this less active and her two kids out in the cold. Well...have faith! Our appointments canceled so we went contacting and tried to find people at home...and ended up contacting a pretty sweet couple along the way to a ward missionary's home. The man, John, is Christian as well as his wife. He's a bit cynical and a bit down because he got diagnosed with cancer. But, as we listened, we were prompted to talk about a modern-day prophet. His wife (we were talking at the fence) came out and seemed really interested. She said her mind couldn't get over it, but they were open to us. Pretty sweet, considering we were just trying to check up on our ward missionary, Bro. Matanyan (he's Armenian). We shared a scripture with the Matanyan's and they fed us some snacks and apple juice...it was a really warm and friendly evening. I just love that family because they're humble but they're the model of a humble and loving family. What a great blessing!
Thursday I was on exchanges in Sherman Oaks and I was the third man since we still had a trio. I felt relaxed, not having to worry about stuff as much. And I saw the need for a change in that companionship because they know each other very well it's kind of annoying. But, it was FUN! We got to teach their Iranian investigator, Kareem, and it was the best lesson I've taught on exchanges I have to say. We were working transitions, seemed a bit clumsy, but we were in sync or in the zone with the Spirit. I was sweating a lot because it was hot in there (Sara and Tayler were like 'DUDE YOU WERE SWEATING SO MUCH! We thought you had poured water on your head!...yeah not fun being all sweaty and nasty). We had some great ribs for dinner and ended up passing by a really fun active family, the Gallegos'. We committed their daughters to take notes at conference (which I'm pumped for!). That'll be interesting how they'll follow up on it. So it was a fun but a great exchange.
Wednesday was a blur, as was Tuesday. I can't remember a thing to be honest. I know ZDM was Wednesday, but other than that...my mind is blank. Sorry about that. Wednesday we had splits with the Elder's Quorum and they got to find a less active family that we've been passing by for a bit. They stood us up for the next appointment, go figure. McGahee went with Bro. Nygren and Woods and I stayed together. We passed by a really crazy less active- we aren't going back anymore. She's just 'worthless' in the context that she has to prove to us she loves the church...she doesn't come but tells us she will time and time again. She gets mad at us if we don't call her. Tuesday was interviews with mission president...and it was pretty cool. I had to give my point of view on the district, and I feel I'll stay...but mission president was non-committal so I have no idea at this point. Sister Goodrich did give me that stare that I should get my hair cut so I promised her, without her telling me, that I'll get one this coming p-day.
This week was fun, no doubt! Busy as bees! Gosh, this work rocks!
As for transfers, we find out General Conference morning who stays and goes (so that's this coming Saturday!). I'm feeling I'll stay, but who knows? I might go Spanish again! I just know that wherever I go that's where God wants me to be.
All is well....all is well!
I love you all, keep safe!
Love,
Spencer
I admit that it was weird that Dad called me right before we were going back home for curfew and so I could record district numbers then to fax it to the zonies. I see Woods throw the phone to me and I see 'DON' on it...I was like...Dad? Some other missionaries we ran into on the street were with us and one of them, Elder Larsen, asked, 'who is it?' I said, 'my dad!' So I talked to Dad a little and he just wanted to say hi...that was really a great surprise. I loved it. Larsen had to ask, 'do you get that often?' to which I said 'no.' Haha, a very pleasant surprise indeed!
Elder Woods and I cashed in our checks today so we are LOADED with moolah! Haha, not much. If I keep getting parking tickets it'll drain fast. But, I've really paid special attention to the signs so I doubt I'll get another one. Today we went around taking pictures at the local Catholic mission (been there since 1757 supposedly) and I was going to pay admission to get inside the grounds...but it didn't look really special so we took pictures in the local garden and outside the mission. Really pretty though. I liked it. We found a big chair outside a furniture store and we got pictures there. I'm tired from driving around, but it's a good day to goof off I guess. And, I got a haircut!
Surprise! My third companion, McGahee, got ET'd up to the desert again. Two weeks in Palmdale, three weeks here, then back up to the desert. A Tongan missionary got angry at this other white chubby kid and laid three knockout punches on his face, sending him to the ER with six stitches. The white kid was in my zone before and I don't like him, so I thought he deserved it. So McGahee got a call right before lunch as we're heading home and it was President Goodrich, so we knew he was gone yet again. He was a bit incensed at the fact he never got to finish this transfer in one area, but he was pleased to know that mission president trusts him enough to settle things down. Good luck with that kid Cotti up there. Woods was sad too but he was happy that McGahee was going to go to his old area because after he left there have been some not-so-good elders up there.
Week rewind!
Sunday was pretty busy. We went to church, the wonderful Van Nuys 1st testimony meeting where a woman of Jewish descent was remarking about Pres. Uchtdorf. She said she was a bit unsure about him, being German, but she said 'I'm sure that he's not a Nazi and here to kill off the Jews.' That's something that'll keep you awake. We didn't have Gospel Principles again because we don't have a teacher nor investigators to come to (for the first time since I've been here we had zero investigators to church, but we did get our recent convert to come back to church). We took McGahee to say good-bye to Betsy right after our morning meeting before sacrament, and left class early for him to say his final good-bye to the Lunas...then we got home so the AP's could take him up to Leona Valley. I took a well-needed nap then to work! We ate with the really cool Black family and got to eat delicious pork roast that just fell apart as you jabbed at it...these people know how to cook! Well, the wife is Peruvian. Got to give her credit. Bro. Black put on Sunday Night Football...that was distracting BUT we got him to at least mute it to share a scripture...and it was a good one (Helaman 5:10-11) and then their sons started to argue about how bad the sacrament passing pattern is...but we got out somehow. It was pretty sweet...that family is really kind towards us. I love meeting so many people out here...I know California was for me. We went contacting, ran into Larsen and Garcia, contacted people and walked a drunk guy home with the other guys. Garcia and Woods ended up teaching him how to overcome his addiction while Larsen and I watched...the man was on the bottom step, Larsen and I were above him and the other two were in chairs facing him and facing us. I was a spectator since I have had NO experience helping someone get over addictions. They taught well. Then home, phone calls for numbers, faxed them in...and bed. Tiring. I couldn't sleep since I took a nap. I was a bit stressed considering one of my elders got in trouble with getting too involved with a local member...darn young guys.
Saturday was busy as heck. As was Friday. We were trying to find potentials at home and we went place to place...and we got the call for McGahee's ET on the way home. That was a downer. We met with the Reseda Spanish ward's HPGL Rick Sanchez and he referred some people to us as well as gave us ideas of how we can conduct Bible study in his apartment building (he's the manager). We went to one of the referrals and she invited us in, as well as asked questions on the pre-existence. Rick lent her a book written by Joseph Fielding Smith! And she said it makes sense, growing up Catholic she didn't understand a lot of things. Really cool short lesson. Our next person was home, but spoke Spanish so we told her we'll call her back later...then we went to stop by the Togiola's (less actives) and got to share a scripture with them...and they promised they'll come to church. We'll believe that when we see that. But, they love us and I just wish I could love them with all my heart...but they gotta come to church! The Luna's were way awesome as usual...we ate tortas for dinner and they were amazing! And we took pictures since McGahee was leaving...and had a good time. Swapped stories and just got along great. Cindy, the mom, asked us about temple classes so I just told her to talk to the bishop about it. But, she's excited for it!
Friday! District meeting! Training went well...sorta but we got the job done. We've been pushing more interactive trainings...so we're getting better at it. We trained on how to use the scriptures...and we did well considering it had to be fast and yet powerful. We had the question, 'what is hell? who goes there?' Alma 40 said Elder Woods, and I had no idea on the spot. So I learned something. We had a great appointment with Mike and he is really excited to go through with this...he just doesn't want to move out and leave this less active and her two kids out in the cold. Well...have faith! Our appointments canceled so we went contacting and tried to find people at home...and ended up contacting a pretty sweet couple along the way to a ward missionary's home. The man, John, is Christian as well as his wife. He's a bit cynical and a bit down because he got diagnosed with cancer. But, as we listened, we were prompted to talk about a modern-day prophet. His wife (we were talking at the fence) came out and seemed really interested. She said her mind couldn't get over it, but they were open to us. Pretty sweet, considering we were just trying to check up on our ward missionary, Bro. Matanyan (he's Armenian). We shared a scripture with the Matanyan's and they fed us some snacks and apple juice...it was a really warm and friendly evening. I just love that family because they're humble but they're the model of a humble and loving family. What a great blessing!
Thursday I was on exchanges in Sherman Oaks and I was the third man since we still had a trio. I felt relaxed, not having to worry about stuff as much. And I saw the need for a change in that companionship because they know each other very well it's kind of annoying. But, it was FUN! We got to teach their Iranian investigator, Kareem, and it was the best lesson I've taught on exchanges I have to say. We were working transitions, seemed a bit clumsy, but we were in sync or in the zone with the Spirit. I was sweating a lot because it was hot in there (Sara and Tayler were like 'DUDE YOU WERE SWEATING SO MUCH! We thought you had poured water on your head!...yeah not fun being all sweaty and nasty). We had some great ribs for dinner and ended up passing by a really fun active family, the Gallegos'. We committed their daughters to take notes at conference (which I'm pumped for!). That'll be interesting how they'll follow up on it. So it was a fun but a great exchange.
Wednesday was a blur, as was Tuesday. I can't remember a thing to be honest. I know ZDM was Wednesday, but other than that...my mind is blank. Sorry about that. Wednesday we had splits with the Elder's Quorum and they got to find a less active family that we've been passing by for a bit. They stood us up for the next appointment, go figure. McGahee went with Bro. Nygren and Woods and I stayed together. We passed by a really crazy less active- we aren't going back anymore. She's just 'worthless' in the context that she has to prove to us she loves the church...she doesn't come but tells us she will time and time again. She gets mad at us if we don't call her. Tuesday was interviews with mission president...and it was pretty cool. I had to give my point of view on the district, and I feel I'll stay...but mission president was non-committal so I have no idea at this point. Sister Goodrich did give me that stare that I should get my hair cut so I promised her, without her telling me, that I'll get one this coming p-day.
This week was fun, no doubt! Busy as bees! Gosh, this work rocks!
As for transfers, we find out General Conference morning who stays and goes (so that's this coming Saturday!). I'm feeling I'll stay, but who knows? I might go Spanish again! I just know that wherever I go that's where God wants me to be.
All is well....all is well!
I love you all, keep safe!
Love,
Spencer
Friday, November 21, 2008
September 22, 2008
Dear Mom,
I'd use the Northridge address because he'll stay and I'll probably go. He'd love it though. He gets on my nerves sometimes, only because I'm really stressed and he's a voice of reason. Which irritates me, but it helps me become a better person.
Good ole' Houston mission. It's super hot down there...she'll just love that. Haha, almost as bad as going to Phillipines.
Well, Kristy went super sister missionary, but I hope Scott will stick around. Either way, it's not a disaster. As Elder Woods said, there's a lot more fishes in the sea. No biggie, I'm not worried at all.
Highlights of the week!
So I'm trying to think straight...I'll have to backtrack a bit. So today we helped a member in a neighboring ward paint his bedrooms because he has to move asap so we did that. I did it begrudgingly because it's my p-day and I can't recoup the time 'lost' of three hours. So there goes the rest of my p-day. I had to do it, but I didn't want to. Woods said, 'what would Jesus do?' and went onto lecture me about attitude and stuff. He told me to stop whining and I was going to punch his lights out. Thank goodness for patience, but I really feel he feels he's a superior person over me. I hate 'holier-than-thou' missionaries. He's a good guy though. I just was really irritated that the other missionaries were really pushing me to do something I really didn't want to do. I felt good when I got there, but I was a bit miffed because the other guys were pushing to spend even more time. So there goes three hours. Way to go. I hate being district leader and having to do stuff like that. It really wears out my patience.
So that's today. Yesterday was really busy. We went to church and stuff, then went home to eat lunch. We assumed that our zone leaders were having their baptism because they told us that it was going to happen. But, we get there and there is no one there! The font isn't filled up and the baptism is scheduled in forty-five minutes. Way to go zone leaders! Way to tell us that you canceled it! So they felt bad and came to help us out, and we got a local member to open it up and fill it for us. So the service started late and went alright considering the circumstances. One of the other elders that got us to paint told me, 'it was a bit disorganized.' Well, of course it is if you had to go through all this stuff on the day of the baptism. It was a great and spiritual service. Our members gave heart-warming and honest talks. They expressed so much gratitude for the gospel and how it's helped them in their lives. I was touched and really glad they could spend their time with us in that way. So I was happy leaving the baptism. We went to dinner, had a great time there. Then we went to the super amazing Luna family and watched the Restoration DVD with them. Oh man, I love the Church media! It is simple, and brings the Spirit in an instant. During the movie I was thinking, how could I show that faith that Joseph had? It's incredible to think a fourteen year old boy received so important an answer. I keep remembering the part in the movie where the narrator says something along the lines of, 'how many great gifts would our Father in Heaven give us if we only ask?' I can't help to think of Dad and of you, of all that you've sacrificed for me. A beautiful Sabbath day.
Saturday was...interesting. I ate (the night before) a dish that contained four habanero peppers...so I was in and out of the bathroom most of the morning. But we did go and try to talk to some people and find our investigators. No luck, but we had a blast at our ward's BBQ party later that evening. I'll have to send you pictures, because Woods and I got mummy wrapped by toilet paper, and we played wiffle ball. This pregnant member hit the ball so me, being the catcher, picked up the ball to relay it to first. We already gave her the free base (she's eight months pregnant!) but she started to walk quickly. I pick up the ball and look up and PLOP! She dropped to the ground so fast! We couldn't decide whether to laugh or feel bad...she rolls over and starts laughing out loud. That was the signal so we laughed even harder. We had a presentation to give at the BBQ and we did that, and went on our way. One of our members fed us dinner, even after the BBQ, and that filled us up way good. Sister Milner, Susan's fellowshipper. They gave us so much food, and sent even more home with us! But, we had an enjoyable time talking to her and her mother about their lives, their homeland (the Phillipines)...it was a very good dinner appointment. I couldn't move the rest of the evening though.
Friday was busy as heck. District meeting then BOOM BOOM BOOM running from appointment to appointment. Mike testified to us about how this message is so good, people are asking, 'is there a catch? is this for real?' It was pretty sweet to hear him testify of how great this message is. Pretty sweet, I could say. We did get to see Susan and prep the program for Sunday, and saw one of our other members, Bruce (the one we've helped with the pipeline). Really jolly old man. Never a serious moment around him. And we went to a member of a different ward that knew McGahee when he was here last and fed me 'devil's shrimp' which was super hot and spicy. Thus, it is the famous four habanero dish. A busy day indeed!
Thursday was another weekly planning day. Not much happened. We got stuck in an appointment teaching the Lunas and got to Betsy's late...only to find she invited her sister and her husband over too! The Luna girls, just to say, were sapped of energy because they just finished a soccer game. So it was a good lesson, but they were tired. The Restoration does have a lot of doctrine stuff...man I can see how it's hard to accept it all. But, being late made me feel even worse! But, we had an enjoyable dinner, and even better time just chatting and laughing and joking...our less actives are way cooler than our actives! Woods goes and shares a spiritual thought on charity, and I felt good because the Spirit was there, accompanying us along the way. We are too blessed, to be honest.
Wednesday was exchanges, and boy it was so fun! I was in Northridge and my zonie Boyce and I got along so well. He's awesome. We went contacting for several hours by CSUN, got free lunch at the Institute building and went contacting again. We get home and crash from exhaustion for an hour. Off again to teach people! Manny, who is having some commandments issues, was really enthusiastic BUT doesn't really get it the first time around. A fun-filled but spiritual lesson for sure. We zoomed around and eventually had dinner with the Kilgrows of Northridge 1st. Fun couple, and they invited another sister from the ward Georgia Reed. A fun group of older people. They are great! We have a good dinner, good steak and potatoes. Even better was our spiritual thought. We go into the family room and we start telling stories of how members found people to baptize. Not just people, but families to come to the church. Just incredible! The Spirit was there and filled the room as well as our hearts. I felt prompted to share some stories as well as my own testimony of member missionary work. The best story was shared by Boyce. One day, a couple was going out to eat dinner. The wife and husband were talking about missionary work and what the elders shared with them a few days before. The wife pipes up, 'let's go to ___ restaurant.' The husband, usually fixed on where they go for dinner, agrees and they turn around. They sit down and the waitress comes over. 'Do you know anything about the Mormon church?' was her question to this member couple. Coincidence? I know it wasn't. Eventually the members had the missionaries teach them, and they were baptized. Talk about a motivating story. I was excited after hearing that! It was amazing! We left on cloud nine, and Boyce put his fist out so we could do the famous 'pound'. 'Yeah, gimme some of that!' said Boyce. Lots of fun, and full of the Spirit. We talked to a referral at his work, and set up a different time to visit. Our last appointment fell through because the investigator (who was going to be baptized yesterday) couldn't make it- her grandma was in the hospital. So we taught their ward missionary and went home. Good day...but I'm so tired from this work.
Tuesday was another weekly planning day since we were so busy the week before. We ended up contacting and then going out to eat at TGI Friday's courtesty of Woods and member's money for dinner. Delicious fajitas...then we went to member's houses to check up on them. McGahee knows the area well, so we went to visit some of his old members in Northridge. That was our day.
So that's the week in a nutshell!
I love missionary work. I get super stressed, but also super relieved. It's a roller coaster ride sometimes because nothing goes according to plan. Never. And it causes stress because I don't like it that way...but it teaches me more patience, if I can bear it. I love being here, and I am just hoping to see what President will say tomorrow during interviews...and I'll let you know what he hints next week!
Who says you can't baptize in English work? I got one in three transfers! More than I got in my first four transfers in Spanish work! Psssh....the Lord blesses according to desire and attitude (as well as work ethic).
I'm learning a lot being a district leader, especially today. Don't stress...be patient, and sacrifice. I am not here to do my will, but my Father's. It's so frustrating sometimes, but it's learning to submit willfully and patiently to a higher power's will. What would Jesus do? Do service. What would He do? Be obedient. What would He do? Love all those around him. I admit I've grown somewhat, but patience is still coming. I have a lot to learn and to do.
Love you all...talk to you later!
Love,
Spencer
I'd use the Northridge address because he'll stay and I'll probably go. He'd love it though. He gets on my nerves sometimes, only because I'm really stressed and he's a voice of reason. Which irritates me, but it helps me become a better person.
Good ole' Houston mission. It's super hot down there...she'll just love that. Haha, almost as bad as going to Phillipines.
Well, Kristy went super sister missionary, but I hope Scott will stick around. Either way, it's not a disaster. As Elder Woods said, there's a lot more fishes in the sea. No biggie, I'm not worried at all.
Highlights of the week!
So I'm trying to think straight...I'll have to backtrack a bit. So today we helped a member in a neighboring ward paint his bedrooms because he has to move asap so we did that. I did it begrudgingly because it's my p-day and I can't recoup the time 'lost' of three hours. So there goes the rest of my p-day. I had to do it, but I didn't want to. Woods said, 'what would Jesus do?' and went onto lecture me about attitude and stuff. He told me to stop whining and I was going to punch his lights out. Thank goodness for patience, but I really feel he feels he's a superior person over me. I hate 'holier-than-thou' missionaries. He's a good guy though. I just was really irritated that the other missionaries were really pushing me to do something I really didn't want to do. I felt good when I got there, but I was a bit miffed because the other guys were pushing to spend even more time. So there goes three hours. Way to go. I hate being district leader and having to do stuff like that. It really wears out my patience.
So that's today. Yesterday was really busy. We went to church and stuff, then went home to eat lunch. We assumed that our zone leaders were having their baptism because they told us that it was going to happen. But, we get there and there is no one there! The font isn't filled up and the baptism is scheduled in forty-five minutes. Way to go zone leaders! Way to tell us that you canceled it! So they felt bad and came to help us out, and we got a local member to open it up and fill it for us. So the service started late and went alright considering the circumstances. One of the other elders that got us to paint told me, 'it was a bit disorganized.' Well, of course it is if you had to go through all this stuff on the day of the baptism. It was a great and spiritual service. Our members gave heart-warming and honest talks. They expressed so much gratitude for the gospel and how it's helped them in their lives. I was touched and really glad they could spend their time with us in that way. So I was happy leaving the baptism. We went to dinner, had a great time there. Then we went to the super amazing Luna family and watched the Restoration DVD with them. Oh man, I love the Church media! It is simple, and brings the Spirit in an instant. During the movie I was thinking, how could I show that faith that Joseph had? It's incredible to think a fourteen year old boy received so important an answer. I keep remembering the part in the movie where the narrator says something along the lines of, 'how many great gifts would our Father in Heaven give us if we only ask?' I can't help to think of Dad and of you, of all that you've sacrificed for me. A beautiful Sabbath day.
Saturday was...interesting. I ate (the night before) a dish that contained four habanero peppers...so I was in and out of the bathroom most of the morning. But we did go and try to talk to some people and find our investigators. No luck, but we had a blast at our ward's BBQ party later that evening. I'll have to send you pictures, because Woods and I got mummy wrapped by toilet paper, and we played wiffle ball. This pregnant member hit the ball so me, being the catcher, picked up the ball to relay it to first. We already gave her the free base (she's eight months pregnant!) but she started to walk quickly. I pick up the ball and look up and PLOP! She dropped to the ground so fast! We couldn't decide whether to laugh or feel bad...she rolls over and starts laughing out loud. That was the signal so we laughed even harder. We had a presentation to give at the BBQ and we did that, and went on our way. One of our members fed us dinner, even after the BBQ, and that filled us up way good. Sister Milner, Susan's fellowshipper. They gave us so much food, and sent even more home with us! But, we had an enjoyable time talking to her and her mother about their lives, their homeland (the Phillipines)...it was a very good dinner appointment. I couldn't move the rest of the evening though.
Friday was busy as heck. District meeting then BOOM BOOM BOOM running from appointment to appointment. Mike testified to us about how this message is so good, people are asking, 'is there a catch? is this for real?' It was pretty sweet to hear him testify of how great this message is. Pretty sweet, I could say. We did get to see Susan and prep the program for Sunday, and saw one of our other members, Bruce (the one we've helped with the pipeline). Really jolly old man. Never a serious moment around him. And we went to a member of a different ward that knew McGahee when he was here last and fed me 'devil's shrimp' which was super hot and spicy. Thus, it is the famous four habanero dish. A busy day indeed!
Thursday was another weekly planning day. Not much happened. We got stuck in an appointment teaching the Lunas and got to Betsy's late...only to find she invited her sister and her husband over too! The Luna girls, just to say, were sapped of energy because they just finished a soccer game. So it was a good lesson, but they were tired. The Restoration does have a lot of doctrine stuff...man I can see how it's hard to accept it all. But, being late made me feel even worse! But, we had an enjoyable dinner, and even better time just chatting and laughing and joking...our less actives are way cooler than our actives! Woods goes and shares a spiritual thought on charity, and I felt good because the Spirit was there, accompanying us along the way. We are too blessed, to be honest.
Wednesday was exchanges, and boy it was so fun! I was in Northridge and my zonie Boyce and I got along so well. He's awesome. We went contacting for several hours by CSUN, got free lunch at the Institute building and went contacting again. We get home and crash from exhaustion for an hour. Off again to teach people! Manny, who is having some commandments issues, was really enthusiastic BUT doesn't really get it the first time around. A fun-filled but spiritual lesson for sure. We zoomed around and eventually had dinner with the Kilgrows of Northridge 1st. Fun couple, and they invited another sister from the ward Georgia Reed. A fun group of older people. They are great! We have a good dinner, good steak and potatoes. Even better was our spiritual thought. We go into the family room and we start telling stories of how members found people to baptize. Not just people, but families to come to the church. Just incredible! The Spirit was there and filled the room as well as our hearts. I felt prompted to share some stories as well as my own testimony of member missionary work. The best story was shared by Boyce. One day, a couple was going out to eat dinner. The wife and husband were talking about missionary work and what the elders shared with them a few days before. The wife pipes up, 'let's go to ___ restaurant.' The husband, usually fixed on where they go for dinner, agrees and they turn around. They sit down and the waitress comes over. 'Do you know anything about the Mormon church?' was her question to this member couple. Coincidence? I know it wasn't. Eventually the members had the missionaries teach them, and they were baptized. Talk about a motivating story. I was excited after hearing that! It was amazing! We left on cloud nine, and Boyce put his fist out so we could do the famous 'pound'. 'Yeah, gimme some of that!' said Boyce. Lots of fun, and full of the Spirit. We talked to a referral at his work, and set up a different time to visit. Our last appointment fell through because the investigator (who was going to be baptized yesterday) couldn't make it- her grandma was in the hospital. So we taught their ward missionary and went home. Good day...but I'm so tired from this work.
Tuesday was another weekly planning day since we were so busy the week before. We ended up contacting and then going out to eat at TGI Friday's courtesty of Woods and member's money for dinner. Delicious fajitas...then we went to member's houses to check up on them. McGahee knows the area well, so we went to visit some of his old members in Northridge. That was our day.
So that's the week in a nutshell!
I love missionary work. I get super stressed, but also super relieved. It's a roller coaster ride sometimes because nothing goes according to plan. Never. And it causes stress because I don't like it that way...but it teaches me more patience, if I can bear it. I love being here, and I am just hoping to see what President will say tomorrow during interviews...and I'll let you know what he hints next week!
Who says you can't baptize in English work? I got one in three transfers! More than I got in my first four transfers in Spanish work! Psssh....the Lord blesses according to desire and attitude (as well as work ethic).
I'm learning a lot being a district leader, especially today. Don't stress...be patient, and sacrifice. I am not here to do my will, but my Father's. It's so frustrating sometimes, but it's learning to submit willfully and patiently to a higher power's will. What would Jesus do? Do service. What would He do? Be obedient. What would He do? Love all those around him. I admit I've grown somewhat, but patience is still coming. I have a lot to learn and to do.
Love you all...talk to you later!
Love,
Spencer
Saturday, November 1, 2008
September 15, 2008
Dear Mom,
I'm happy you enjoyed the birthday card. I loved it so I guessed you would like it too. Perfectly described the Irvine home.
So sweet! Houston Spanish speaking! Which mission? I have an acquaintance from the Y that went over there to the South mission...he's a pretty cool guy named Chris Ah Sue. I knew him through a few people over there. Sweet! My Spanish is getting a bit rusty due to not a heavy use of it, but that comes with the territory. I still can speak better than most of the Spanish elders but it's frustrating when you feel you're losing a little. Even study can't really make up for the speaking...but oh well. Hopefully President will move me to Spanish soon. I really hope Mike will shape up and get it done because the further he pushes it the harder it is to go. Oh well. His call. Gotta get your priorities straight. This way I won't see him until two years after I get back.
Yeah, people told me that USC beat Ohio State, BYU crushed and humiliated UCLA (yes!) and Maryland squeaked by Cal. Another season missed...oh well. I'm saving souls out here!
This week went by super fast! We did go to the temple this week as our quarterly trips down to the LA temple and it was very peaceful and sublime. I love the temple. But, our workload went down a little, we could've done better. We just had to help some members out with stuff here and there. The usual. I got a parking ticket for 55 bucks so I had to pay that (the sign was hidden by a tree limb and a huge SUV...oh well). Frustrating. I was angry at my comp and myself and the other two that were in the car. But, you gotta obey the law. I went on exchanges this past Wednesday and it was a bit tiring and frustrating. We did find some less actives, they're on a long path to re-activation for sure. I met the ward mission leader in that area and I just wish that he was my WML. A dinner with a normal family (for once) and we had a blast over there. My districtmate Elder Decker made so much fun of the oldest daughter because the family was just teasing her about another youth in the ward...fun stuff. But, I was able to gauge the area a little and to help him realize that it may be hard, but it's worth it. Areas go through phases, you just have to work through it. They have a lot of work to find right now, poor guys.
So Thursday was our temple trip and we had a delicious and mouth-watering chili dinner. Followed by a super spiritual lesson with Betsy Miller, who is one of our golden less actives. We not only bore our testimonies of the Gospel, but we also committed her to continue to do what is right and come to church. All I can remember is the presence of the Spirit, of how it filled the room. I'm looking forward someday to go to her sealing between her and her really jovial and active sister Sister Tribble from a neighboring ward. Wow...such great blessings!
Our Friday was busy as heck too. We read the chapter 27 of 3rd Nephi with her, and it made sense to her. Just to strengthen her as she prepares for baptism. The following day we watched Finding Faith in Christ, and she really loved it. She was touched by her own testimony which was strengthened by the presence of the Spirit. I love the part in that movie when Martha looks at Jesus Christ, a grateful and humble gaze at her Savior for raising her brother from the dead. Just a great weekend. I conducted another baptismal interview for the zone leaders, one of many! Tallin M., with an Armenian last name I can't pronounce or spell. She's been investigating for a long time. Her mom is a member, her dad isn't. So she didn't start applying what she was learning until about a year ago...and as soon as I walked into her house to do the interview I felt, 'she's ready. Interview her. She's ready.' So we got it done, and I just enjoyed that enthusiasm she has. We joked around to start, just to make her feel comfortable and to trust me a little bit. Her testimony was simple, but that's how it should be. She bore her testimony of the Atonement, of how she didn't understand much of it before the missionaries came to teach her. She made the common point, how could Jesus do that for a complete stranger? Yes, he knew us before, but still. Incredible! She talked about other missionaries that came to teach her (an Elder Orme came all the way down from Ridgecrest, about 3 hours or more away, to baptize her) and of how she enjoyed their spirits and testimonies. We joked around a little and I was really uplifted by it. I love interviewing candidates because it reminds me of how precious the Gospel really is. Wow. So I was on a spiritual high.
Saturday was super busy and long. We went to the mission office to get some things done and got back in time to watch FFIC with Susan at 3. We helped Bruce Sayler, a really funny old man, dig the last stretch of his trench to reach the gas line hook-up. So we dig it and find out we didn't reach the hook-up at all, just a part of the old pipe. We were looking for the new pipe. So Woods ends up digging a little more under the asphalt of the driveway and found it. So McGahee and I took turns to pound the asphalt to break it up so we could hook it up at a later time. And, on top of that, we found a huge 'rock' in the middle of the trench. We were like...uh...that's a big rock. Woods dug some more...and more...then Bruce's son comes over (visiting from Oregon) and said, 'oh, that's an old concrete fencepost'. So Woods dug about a foot and a half to begin with, then dug about 3-4 feet more to get to the bottom of it. That concrete thing must've been there since the turn of the century. So McGahee had me help him lift it, but I couldn't get a grip so he basically dead lifted it. And we got some funny pictures out of it so I'll have to send you some of them later. Crazy work.
Sunday went well...except I still don't like the WML but whatever we're getting a new one soon. We went to Tallin's baptism and I really felt the Spirit there. A convert went up there and bore his testimony, of how an Elder Carter shared his testimony and he saw that light of Christ up there in his eyes...and it made him change. He said it was great for him. Off of that spiritual high, we go to a member's house to eat dinner and wow! The Spirit was there as we taught our short message, of not quenching the Spirit within us and continue to follow His guide. We passed by some less actives, the Togiola's and Luna's...and had not only a fun time but a spiritual moment. They both want to be sealed, so we're here to help them get there. Together Forever is a cheesy movie, but it really helped me remember how precious that gift is to be sealed for all time and eternity. Wow. Thanks Mom, thanks Dad for that gift. Just a great spiritual week.
That was my week, in short. But I love the work, and I love these people.
I hope all is 'swell' back home. I love you all.
Love,
Spencer
I'm happy you enjoyed the birthday card. I loved it so I guessed you would like it too. Perfectly described the Irvine home.
So sweet! Houston Spanish speaking! Which mission? I have an acquaintance from the Y that went over there to the South mission...he's a pretty cool guy named Chris Ah Sue. I knew him through a few people over there. Sweet! My Spanish is getting a bit rusty due to not a heavy use of it, but that comes with the territory. I still can speak better than most of the Spanish elders but it's frustrating when you feel you're losing a little. Even study can't really make up for the speaking...but oh well. Hopefully President will move me to Spanish soon. I really hope Mike will shape up and get it done because the further he pushes it the harder it is to go. Oh well. His call. Gotta get your priorities straight. This way I won't see him until two years after I get back.
Yeah, people told me that USC beat Ohio State, BYU crushed and humiliated UCLA (yes!) and Maryland squeaked by Cal. Another season missed...oh well. I'm saving souls out here!
This week went by super fast! We did go to the temple this week as our quarterly trips down to the LA temple and it was very peaceful and sublime. I love the temple. But, our workload went down a little, we could've done better. We just had to help some members out with stuff here and there. The usual. I got a parking ticket for 55 bucks so I had to pay that (the sign was hidden by a tree limb and a huge SUV...oh well). Frustrating. I was angry at my comp and myself and the other two that were in the car. But, you gotta obey the law. I went on exchanges this past Wednesday and it was a bit tiring and frustrating. We did find some less actives, they're on a long path to re-activation for sure. I met the ward mission leader in that area and I just wish that he was my WML. A dinner with a normal family (for once) and we had a blast over there. My districtmate Elder Decker made so much fun of the oldest daughter because the family was just teasing her about another youth in the ward...fun stuff. But, I was able to gauge the area a little and to help him realize that it may be hard, but it's worth it. Areas go through phases, you just have to work through it. They have a lot of work to find right now, poor guys.
So Thursday was our temple trip and we had a delicious and mouth-watering chili dinner. Followed by a super spiritual lesson with Betsy Miller, who is one of our golden less actives. We not only bore our testimonies of the Gospel, but we also committed her to continue to do what is right and come to church. All I can remember is the presence of the Spirit, of how it filled the room. I'm looking forward someday to go to her sealing between her and her really jovial and active sister Sister Tribble from a neighboring ward. Wow...such great blessings!
Our Friday was busy as heck too. We read the chapter 27 of 3rd Nephi with her, and it made sense to her. Just to strengthen her as she prepares for baptism. The following day we watched Finding Faith in Christ, and she really loved it. She was touched by her own testimony which was strengthened by the presence of the Spirit. I love the part in that movie when Martha looks at Jesus Christ, a grateful and humble gaze at her Savior for raising her brother from the dead. Just a great weekend. I conducted another baptismal interview for the zone leaders, one of many! Tallin M., with an Armenian last name I can't pronounce or spell. She's been investigating for a long time. Her mom is a member, her dad isn't. So she didn't start applying what she was learning until about a year ago...and as soon as I walked into her house to do the interview I felt, 'she's ready. Interview her. She's ready.' So we got it done, and I just enjoyed that enthusiasm she has. We joked around to start, just to make her feel comfortable and to trust me a little bit. Her testimony was simple, but that's how it should be. She bore her testimony of the Atonement, of how she didn't understand much of it before the missionaries came to teach her. She made the common point, how could Jesus do that for a complete stranger? Yes, he knew us before, but still. Incredible! She talked about other missionaries that came to teach her (an Elder Orme came all the way down from Ridgecrest, about 3 hours or more away, to baptize her) and of how she enjoyed their spirits and testimonies. We joked around a little and I was really uplifted by it. I love interviewing candidates because it reminds me of how precious the Gospel really is. Wow. So I was on a spiritual high.
Saturday was super busy and long. We went to the mission office to get some things done and got back in time to watch FFIC with Susan at 3. We helped Bruce Sayler, a really funny old man, dig the last stretch of his trench to reach the gas line hook-up. So we dig it and find out we didn't reach the hook-up at all, just a part of the old pipe. We were looking for the new pipe. So Woods ends up digging a little more under the asphalt of the driveway and found it. So McGahee and I took turns to pound the asphalt to break it up so we could hook it up at a later time. And, on top of that, we found a huge 'rock' in the middle of the trench. We were like...uh...that's a big rock. Woods dug some more...and more...then Bruce's son comes over (visiting from Oregon) and said, 'oh, that's an old concrete fencepost'. So Woods dug about a foot and a half to begin with, then dug about 3-4 feet more to get to the bottom of it. That concrete thing must've been there since the turn of the century. So McGahee had me help him lift it, but I couldn't get a grip so he basically dead lifted it. And we got some funny pictures out of it so I'll have to send you some of them later. Crazy work.
Sunday went well...except I still don't like the WML but whatever we're getting a new one soon. We went to Tallin's baptism and I really felt the Spirit there. A convert went up there and bore his testimony, of how an Elder Carter shared his testimony and he saw that light of Christ up there in his eyes...and it made him change. He said it was great for him. Off of that spiritual high, we go to a member's house to eat dinner and wow! The Spirit was there as we taught our short message, of not quenching the Spirit within us and continue to follow His guide. We passed by some less actives, the Togiola's and Luna's...and had not only a fun time but a spiritual moment. They both want to be sealed, so we're here to help them get there. Together Forever is a cheesy movie, but it really helped me remember how precious that gift is to be sealed for all time and eternity. Wow. Thanks Mom, thanks Dad for that gift. Just a great spiritual week.
That was my week, in short. But I love the work, and I love these people.
I hope all is 'swell' back home. I love you all.
Love,
Spencer
Friday, October 24, 2008
September 8, 2008
Dear Mom,
This week has just soared by! Oh my gosh it's crazy. I'm loving this area! We have one person that passed a baptismal interview, Susan Lar, so she'll be baptized ASAP. So excited! The fruits of my labors, and the many blessings of the Lord.
So we got Elder McGahee back here in Van Nuys. Poor guy had to spend two weeks up in the desert where Danny is (but in a different companionship) because another missionary knocked himself out of commission longboarding on some hill up there (now they're officially banned...use common sense guys!). He's really fun! He's from northern Alabama and he's almost home (he leaves in November). Loads of fun so far! We have the shortest companionship in the entire mission, and Elder Sara from Utah is in our district too so we have the four shortest elders in the entire mission in the same district, three in one companionship. Feels weird, to be honest, to have another extra missionary tagging along. I love it though! We're gonna rock this place! He's really changed from what I heard because he was a bum to begin with, but he's a great missionary. He's really going to help Van Nuys 1st out a lot. So that basically means I'm probably going to go, because I have one transfer here more than Woods, and we all have been senior companions at one point in the mission field...so I'm just going to work my best and wait to see what happens. But, this work is going great right now!
This week was a blur! We did a lot of service for Bruce, an older member but he's a recent convert of two years. He needs a new pipeline for his gas, so we dug a trench for it. We have to finish it up this coming week, but not much else is left. We did have a great week though. We taught Susan several times this week with our ward missionaries (the two we took with us are sisters...really humble and loving sisters) and wow! They bonded. I think that Susan is just outgoing and loving so it makes it easier to become friends with members. She has fellowshippers galore, so she'll be active no doubt. And Saturday she passed the baptismal interview, so all we have to do is organize the program and BAM! 'Baptism, boom baby', as my zone leader Elder Boyce says. I'm so pumped for that!
We taught June Hinahon a short but blunt lesson, that we are here to help him find out for himself if the Gospel is true. We committed him to pray specifically to know whether the Book of Mormon is true and that Joseph Smith (or Joe Smith as McGahee says) is a prophet of God. He said, to my amazement and shame, 'well, I never had mentioned in a prayer those things', he thought a general prayer would work. Well, it hasn't, but it will help him receive an answer pronto. Their family has really grown close to us the missionaries, and I really love them to death. Their poor girl, Alyssa, is anemic and so they're praying hard so her test results will be fine. They took four vials of blood out of her, and June's member wife Jennifer said, 'I didn't even know she had that enough blood in her.' Surprised me too when I heard that. The members love us, and I love them so very much. Really great stuff going on down here.
We had two consecutive dinners with our really active less actives, the Lunas. Junior and Cindy, the parents, are so fun-loving and outgoing. We just clicked. We go over there Saturday and we just have a ball of a time, and we share a scripture to invite them to prepare for stake conference the following day (Sunday). They came to stake conference, which was great, and we went over for dinner some hours later. Cindy's mom, Sister Duggan (very active member), thanked us for caring about them when she called to tell us, she signed up for dinner this coming Monday (today). My goal, as is theirs, is to get them sealed for time and all eternity. Yes, Cindy and Junior were active most of their lives, but they settled for a civil marriage. The bishop who married them, Bishop Molen, is going through a tough time. His wife passed away a few weeks ago. When Cindy went to the funeral, she realized she must be sealed to her family. In come the missionaries! That would bring me so much more joy that I have now to see them go to the temple, and they're doing their best to do their part. But before I cry, just to sum up our lesson plan for them yesterday. We watched the Testaments movie with them...that movie is quite the tear-jerker for me. I realized in the movie how much family is so important in life. That movie is a testimony reminder for all members of the Church. I love the Testaments, because I know that Christ lives, he died, but He lives! He is my personal Savior. I just cry a lot during that movie, but at the end we had a great testimony mini-meeting. McGahee bore his witness of the Book of Mormon, and I committed them to read it daily as a family to strengthen themselves against the world. Woods shared his testimony, which was the last straw for me and I just let the tears flow, but I tried not to sob loudly. I'm such a baby! Ooohhh the Spirit was oozing through the walls of the home...it was really special. Even the active daughters were subdued a little. I know I was sent here for a reason. To activate the less actives and to find the elect. Why is God so merciful to me? I don't deserve it!
So we're going on a spiritual high leaving the appointment, and we go visit a less active, Betsy Miller. She couldn't go to church, but her sister was called to the stake Primary presidency and was going to pick her up. But, she cut her hand bad and it's her writing hand. Poor woman. We stopped by to see how she was doing. She's so loving and so kind, and I just have learned to love her like a sister. We chatted a little, joked around, and had a good, warm time. Time for a scripture! I share Enos, how he felt consoled at the end of his life to go to His Maker. And I told her it was her goal to return to God's presence, but to be sealed with her sister (good ole' Sister Tribble). And she felt touched, as did I (I had tears welling up in my eyes...oh man), and it was a great spiritual experience. Elder McGahee and Woods shared their witness also...I love the trio! We're too good now! And I mentioned to her that she's changed. She said, I don't feel like I changed, and so Woods pounced on that. He shared Alma 5:26, talking about the change in your hearts, and he pointed out it is gradual and that we need to look back with a time period in mind...how was I six months ago....how was I a year ago...? She said, even a year ago my life has changed a lot. She said that she realized she can't rely on herself anymore, but that she needed to prepare herself spiritually. Wow, a great evening! I didn't deserve it!
My converts Alberto and Yadira are doing well, and Alberto is almost done with the Book of Mormon because he's reading in Ether right now. I'm so proud of him! Or, as Bruce said, excited for him (because pride isn't a good word to describe this enthusiasm!).
Stake conference was great! Just that spiritual boost we needed! It did get boring when they talked about Proposition 8 again, but the members need to step up. Pres. Jex, the stake president, called the members out with Joshua 24:15, 'as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.' He told all my donate means (or money) to the cause and that now is the time to canvass communities to push the cause forth. If it doesn't pass here, it will lead to serious moral problems in the future. I hope it'll pass. I really hope that the members here pick up the ball and move with it. They're too lazy it seems, but I know that this will get them moving, that great giant to start trouncing the enemy. I took a lot from stake conference, and I loved it! I love meetings now, more and more. Just great spiritual highs! It also helped Pres. and Sis. Goodrich were there, and they bore their witness of missionary work and of the Spirit. Pres. Goodrich admitted he had no idea what member missionary work meant until he came out here. He said, 'all we have to do is invite, invite, and invite.' We don't need to sift through our friends to see who'd be most receptive to the Gospel. We must share it with everyone. The most unlikely accept the Gospel, when the most likely to accept it show little interest and reject it. It's that simple! Wow! Sis. Goodrich bore her testimony of the Holy Ghost, of how it has helped her in her life, and how he truly exists. I love the Lord!
I know the Church is true. There is no other greater Church nor doctrine. Jesus came to pay for my sins, He did that, then died. He rose on the third day, and He lives again! He loves us so, and to show that love He has for us He has given us a loving and caring modern-day prophet, Thomas S. Monson. I know Pres. Monson is a prophet of God. I know the Book of Mormon can answer any question we have. I know it is the word of God. As Elder Woods said, we can learn from every single verse in the Book of Mormon, and I know that to be true. I do not doubt God loves us still, and he revealeth his secrets to his servants the prophets.
I love you all. I hope all is well in Zion! My thoughts are with you, and I miss you so. Stay safe, will ya?
Love,
Spencer
This week has just soared by! Oh my gosh it's crazy. I'm loving this area! We have one person that passed a baptismal interview, Susan Lar, so she'll be baptized ASAP. So excited! The fruits of my labors, and the many blessings of the Lord.
So we got Elder McGahee back here in Van Nuys. Poor guy had to spend two weeks up in the desert where Danny is (but in a different companionship) because another missionary knocked himself out of commission longboarding on some hill up there (now they're officially banned...use common sense guys!). He's really fun! He's from northern Alabama and he's almost home (he leaves in November). Loads of fun so far! We have the shortest companionship in the entire mission, and Elder Sara from Utah is in our district too so we have the four shortest elders in the entire mission in the same district, three in one companionship. Feels weird, to be honest, to have another extra missionary tagging along. I love it though! We're gonna rock this place! He's really changed from what I heard because he was a bum to begin with, but he's a great missionary. He's really going to help Van Nuys 1st out a lot. So that basically means I'm probably going to go, because I have one transfer here more than Woods, and we all have been senior companions at one point in the mission field...so I'm just going to work my best and wait to see what happens. But, this work is going great right now!
This week was a blur! We did a lot of service for Bruce, an older member but he's a recent convert of two years. He needs a new pipeline for his gas, so we dug a trench for it. We have to finish it up this coming week, but not much else is left. We did have a great week though. We taught Susan several times this week with our ward missionaries (the two we took with us are sisters...really humble and loving sisters) and wow! They bonded. I think that Susan is just outgoing and loving so it makes it easier to become friends with members. She has fellowshippers galore, so she'll be active no doubt. And Saturday she passed the baptismal interview, so all we have to do is organize the program and BAM! 'Baptism, boom baby', as my zone leader Elder Boyce says. I'm so pumped for that!
We taught June Hinahon a short but blunt lesson, that we are here to help him find out for himself if the Gospel is true. We committed him to pray specifically to know whether the Book of Mormon is true and that Joseph Smith (or Joe Smith as McGahee says) is a prophet of God. He said, to my amazement and shame, 'well, I never had mentioned in a prayer those things', he thought a general prayer would work. Well, it hasn't, but it will help him receive an answer pronto. Their family has really grown close to us the missionaries, and I really love them to death. Their poor girl, Alyssa, is anemic and so they're praying hard so her test results will be fine. They took four vials of blood out of her, and June's member wife Jennifer said, 'I didn't even know she had that enough blood in her.' Surprised me too when I heard that. The members love us, and I love them so very much. Really great stuff going on down here.
We had two consecutive dinners with our really active less actives, the Lunas. Junior and Cindy, the parents, are so fun-loving and outgoing. We just clicked. We go over there Saturday and we just have a ball of a time, and we share a scripture to invite them to prepare for stake conference the following day (Sunday). They came to stake conference, which was great, and we went over for dinner some hours later. Cindy's mom, Sister Duggan (very active member), thanked us for caring about them when she called to tell us, she signed up for dinner this coming Monday (today). My goal, as is theirs, is to get them sealed for time and all eternity. Yes, Cindy and Junior were active most of their lives, but they settled for a civil marriage. The bishop who married them, Bishop Molen, is going through a tough time. His wife passed away a few weeks ago. When Cindy went to the funeral, she realized she must be sealed to her family. In come the missionaries! That would bring me so much more joy that I have now to see them go to the temple, and they're doing their best to do their part. But before I cry, just to sum up our lesson plan for them yesterday. We watched the Testaments movie with them...that movie is quite the tear-jerker for me. I realized in the movie how much family is so important in life. That movie is a testimony reminder for all members of the Church. I love the Testaments, because I know that Christ lives, he died, but He lives! He is my personal Savior. I just cry a lot during that movie, but at the end we had a great testimony mini-meeting. McGahee bore his witness of the Book of Mormon, and I committed them to read it daily as a family to strengthen themselves against the world. Woods shared his testimony, which was the last straw for me and I just let the tears flow, but I tried not to sob loudly. I'm such a baby! Ooohhh the Spirit was oozing through the walls of the home...it was really special. Even the active daughters were subdued a little. I know I was sent here for a reason. To activate the less actives and to find the elect. Why is God so merciful to me? I don't deserve it!
So we're going on a spiritual high leaving the appointment, and we go visit a less active, Betsy Miller. She couldn't go to church, but her sister was called to the stake Primary presidency and was going to pick her up. But, she cut her hand bad and it's her writing hand. Poor woman. We stopped by to see how she was doing. She's so loving and so kind, and I just have learned to love her like a sister. We chatted a little, joked around, and had a good, warm time. Time for a scripture! I share Enos, how he felt consoled at the end of his life to go to His Maker. And I told her it was her goal to return to God's presence, but to be sealed with her sister (good ole' Sister Tribble). And she felt touched, as did I (I had tears welling up in my eyes...oh man), and it was a great spiritual experience. Elder McGahee and Woods shared their witness also...I love the trio! We're too good now! And I mentioned to her that she's changed. She said, I don't feel like I changed, and so Woods pounced on that. He shared Alma 5:26, talking about the change in your hearts, and he pointed out it is gradual and that we need to look back with a time period in mind...how was I six months ago....how was I a year ago...? She said, even a year ago my life has changed a lot. She said that she realized she can't rely on herself anymore, but that she needed to prepare herself spiritually. Wow, a great evening! I didn't deserve it!
My converts Alberto and Yadira are doing well, and Alberto is almost done with the Book of Mormon because he's reading in Ether right now. I'm so proud of him! Or, as Bruce said, excited for him (because pride isn't a good word to describe this enthusiasm!).
Stake conference was great! Just that spiritual boost we needed! It did get boring when they talked about Proposition 8 again, but the members need to step up. Pres. Jex, the stake president, called the members out with Joshua 24:15, 'as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.' He told all my donate means (or money) to the cause and that now is the time to canvass communities to push the cause forth. If it doesn't pass here, it will lead to serious moral problems in the future. I hope it'll pass. I really hope that the members here pick up the ball and move with it. They're too lazy it seems, but I know that this will get them moving, that great giant to start trouncing the enemy. I took a lot from stake conference, and I loved it! I love meetings now, more and more. Just great spiritual highs! It also helped Pres. and Sis. Goodrich were there, and they bore their witness of missionary work and of the Spirit. Pres. Goodrich admitted he had no idea what member missionary work meant until he came out here. He said, 'all we have to do is invite, invite, and invite.' We don't need to sift through our friends to see who'd be most receptive to the Gospel. We must share it with everyone. The most unlikely accept the Gospel, when the most likely to accept it show little interest and reject it. It's that simple! Wow! Sis. Goodrich bore her testimony of the Holy Ghost, of how it has helped her in her life, and how he truly exists. I love the Lord!
I know the Church is true. There is no other greater Church nor doctrine. Jesus came to pay for my sins, He did that, then died. He rose on the third day, and He lives again! He loves us so, and to show that love He has for us He has given us a loving and caring modern-day prophet, Thomas S. Monson. I know Pres. Monson is a prophet of God. I know the Book of Mormon can answer any question we have. I know it is the word of God. As Elder Woods said, we can learn from every single verse in the Book of Mormon, and I know that to be true. I do not doubt God loves us still, and he revealeth his secrets to his servants the prophets.
I love you all. I hope all is well in Zion! My thoughts are with you, and I miss you so. Stay safe, will ya?
Love,
Spencer
Thursday, October 16, 2008
September 2, 2008
Dear Mom,
Yesterday was the best p-day ever! I got to sleep a lot...and it was the best for me! I was very energized and I hope it'll last the week. This area has a tendency to wear missionaries out a little, if they work. The work is picking up so fast, we barely have time to eat lunch and dinner! Busy busy busy! Such is the life right now!
This week was super busy! Highlight reel! Brought to you by...
Gatorade, is it in You?
Now back to the show.
Gotcha!
We had a transfer high of three member presents. Quite an accomplishment here because everyone is so busy and is working all week, and they were legitimate MP's. Pretty sweet lessons this past week. So Tuesday and Wednesday mornings Woods and I dug a trench for this member, Bruce Sayler. He has to get another oil line underground because he's been without gas for about two months. So we're giving all the time we can spare to help him...but he has to get some extra help or it'll take another week or so. And his mother, who is as old as grandma, is a bit pushy to say the least. He's funny because he says he doesn't like being treated as if he were a ten year-old...but he's accepted it by now. We actually helped him this morning just now, so it's been a learning experience for me. Dig a trench, dig under roots and how to correctly use a pickaxe. Pretty sweet stuff.
Sunday was absolutely spiritual. We had a semi-good testimony meeting, some of our oddball members went up there and did their thing. I couldn't look behind me because there were some normal members sitting behind me and they were trying not to laugh very hard. But, we had six investigators to church, as well as a less active family (the Lunas) and Betsy Miller. I was so happy! I was very glad to see them all there! Betsy did ask me, 'So she (one of the oddballs) usually does that, right?' Yup. She felt a bit uneasy, but she is willing to put feelings aside and to go to church. Her goal is to go to the temple and be sealed with her sister, and I really feel it'll come soon as soon as she becomes consistent with church. The Lunas promised us a week ago they'd go to church, and there they were! Super awkward moment when their teenage daughters came out of nowhere and gave me a hug...so awkward! Ahh! Couldn't react in time so I lost. I got two hugs. So great! We went to a baptismal service of someone I met in the ZL's ward and interviewed for baptism (interviews are so cool!) and our investigator Crystal came. She loved it...she was a bundle of emotions but she kept herself calm. I felt like an inferior missionary there. We had our ZL's, and our AP's who both served as ZL's in this ward. And Woods, my comp. Just amazing missionaries. Super spiritual and it just reminded me of the success I have seen before, and how great I felt. Super motivating! We went to dinner with the Sanders, who are nice and cool at the same time. Not odd at all. It was a great Sunday.
Saturday was busy as heck! Unusual but really good! One of our investigators that dropped us a month ago finally invited us back, and she had two of her daughters there. Good ole' Donna Caballero. We had their neighbors, the Espinosas, who are members (really strong testimonies too). It was a very impromptu Plan of Salvation lesson, but it was simple and spiritual. Powerful. I felt the Spirit and the Spirit really enlightened this family. It made sense, they said, how Adam and Eve did a good thing for us (2nd Nephi chapter 2 is the best scripture on the Fall!). Oh yeah, Betsy during Sunday School pointed out she loves the Book of Mormon because we read the Bible a little, kind of confusing. We ran to another place, then another to teach Susan. Ran into a sticky situation because we taught some commandments then reviewed the baptismal questions...then the Word of Wisdom came up so we went into that (led by the Spirit). She likes...green tea. Not that bad, but still. At first she didn't like the idea of switching to herbal tea. Then Woods went into the blessings of keeping this law, and she's like 'Ok I'll do it if I get blessings.' Wow, that was...easy? Dinner and then off to visit Shenice with Sister Dutton (just a fabulous member). Shenice was tired, as were we, but we hung in there...and I loved the spiritual experiences that Sis. Dutton shared. It made Woods point out, afterwards, that we need to be more personal in the majority of our lessons...that's what we're missing! She put a viewpoint on the Gospel regarding the Plan of Salvation. God will put us where we are comfortable at the end of this life. She said she doesn't like change, but she knows she wants to be comfortable in God's presence in the next life. I was like, 'hmm, would I be comfortable in God's presence? Nope.' I learned a lot from her. It was her first time teaming up with missionaries, and she loved it!
Friday was hectic. District meeting, before that a goal setting meeting (ZDM) with the other DL's and ZL's...then I had to go up to Santa Clarita to drop the other elders Sara and Tayler off at the office to get their car (finally got a car). It was weird being back in my old stomping grounds....strange indeed!
Highlights! So Gye, our English student, bought us iced coffee on Wednesday so we taught the Word of Wisdom (kind of a recurring theme here, eh?) and she apologized...then she gave it to her neighbors that night. Really great woman, really open to us. Mike didn't get the title of liberty scripture we gave him, but when we explained it he really liked it. He was all gung-ho about it. Pretty sweet when you understand the words and apply them! June's daughter was sick again, she's anemic...poor little girl...so we couldn't meet with him last week. And meeting with Crystal, Enrique and Franky was out of hand! I got distracted because they were asking questions at the same time...really disconcerting. But, we answered their questions to the best of our abilities and left something to read so we won't have to answer the rest of their questions. Super busy week! Lots of fun though!
By the way, Elder Raleigh is with me again...he was in my first district ever! What a riot he is...haha it's so fun being around him. We do joke around TOO much it's sort of a problem when one is trying to get to bed. Good kid though. He's almost done, that is so crazy! The greenie (now in his second transfer) is so much happier now his trainer is gone...we're having a blast over here!
Yesterday was pretty sweet. So after we visit the Lunas and express how happy we were to see them at church, we went contacting. I felt prompted to stop the car at a road close to the apartment and to contact there. We contacted there the night before, but we went on the other side of the street. Rejected here and there, until we keep walking down the sidewalk and see a black man walking up to us. I asked Woods, 'Hey is he walking away or towards us?' He said, 'His arms are swinging towards us so he's walking towards us.' Good analysis Woods. We start to talk to him about the Restoration, and he just stands there in awe. Overwhelmed, but he realized he was missing a prophet. He said, 'well if it's true I'm missing something then.' Really open man (he was black too...really awesome!). The Spirit was working through us, and it really touched him when Elder Woods shared the First Vision with him, and it was just what the Spirit needed to prick this man's heart. He was excited and a bit amazed at our message. The only problem is he lives in Ventura, out of our mission, and we couldn't get his phone number. But it was a great contact! Oh man! Mind-blowing! Just because I parked the car on the street unplanned. He took our card, and went his way with our telephone number written on it. I just hope he calls us, and we'll get him to the right people. Wow...a great contact. We ended up praying to thank the Lord for his kindness in letting us be strengthened by that contact. I was in shock for a little bit. Wow!
Time really flies...when one works. I know the Lord sent me here to prepare someone...I just don't know who. We'll see what happens though, I'm super excited. I know something big will happen here, but I must be patient. I love my district, and I love my mission leaders. There's no one better!
I'm happy all is well back home. I love you all, and stay safe.
Love,
Spencer
P.S. Woods' birthday is in October..? So if you have any ideas of what a missionary would need, could you send him a card and maybe a little package? Thanks mom! I just can't get away from him...it's against the rules to get a surprise gift for you comp (jk! but almost impossible without him knowing).
Yesterday was the best p-day ever! I got to sleep a lot...and it was the best for me! I was very energized and I hope it'll last the week. This area has a tendency to wear missionaries out a little, if they work. The work is picking up so fast, we barely have time to eat lunch and dinner! Busy busy busy! Such is the life right now!
This week was super busy! Highlight reel! Brought to you by...
Gatorade, is it in You?
Now back to the show.
Gotcha!
We had a transfer high of three member presents. Quite an accomplishment here because everyone is so busy and is working all week, and they were legitimate MP's. Pretty sweet lessons this past week. So Tuesday and Wednesday mornings Woods and I dug a trench for this member, Bruce Sayler. He has to get another oil line underground because he's been without gas for about two months. So we're giving all the time we can spare to help him...but he has to get some extra help or it'll take another week or so. And his mother, who is as old as grandma, is a bit pushy to say the least. He's funny because he says he doesn't like being treated as if he were a ten year-old...but he's accepted it by now. We actually helped him this morning just now, so it's been a learning experience for me. Dig a trench, dig under roots and how to correctly use a pickaxe. Pretty sweet stuff.
Sunday was absolutely spiritual. We had a semi-good testimony meeting, some of our oddball members went up there and did their thing. I couldn't look behind me because there were some normal members sitting behind me and they were trying not to laugh very hard. But, we had six investigators to church, as well as a less active family (the Lunas) and Betsy Miller. I was so happy! I was very glad to see them all there! Betsy did ask me, 'So she (one of the oddballs) usually does that, right?' Yup. She felt a bit uneasy, but she is willing to put feelings aside and to go to church. Her goal is to go to the temple and be sealed with her sister, and I really feel it'll come soon as soon as she becomes consistent with church. The Lunas promised us a week ago they'd go to church, and there they were! Super awkward moment when their teenage daughters came out of nowhere and gave me a hug...so awkward! Ahh! Couldn't react in time so I lost. I got two hugs. So great! We went to a baptismal service of someone I met in the ZL's ward and interviewed for baptism (interviews are so cool!) and our investigator Crystal came. She loved it...she was a bundle of emotions but she kept herself calm. I felt like an inferior missionary there. We had our ZL's, and our AP's who both served as ZL's in this ward. And Woods, my comp. Just amazing missionaries. Super spiritual and it just reminded me of the success I have seen before, and how great I felt. Super motivating! We went to dinner with the Sanders, who are nice and cool at the same time. Not odd at all. It was a great Sunday.
Saturday was busy as heck! Unusual but really good! One of our investigators that dropped us a month ago finally invited us back, and she had two of her daughters there. Good ole' Donna Caballero. We had their neighbors, the Espinosas, who are members (really strong testimonies too). It was a very impromptu Plan of Salvation lesson, but it was simple and spiritual. Powerful. I felt the Spirit and the Spirit really enlightened this family. It made sense, they said, how Adam and Eve did a good thing for us (2nd Nephi chapter 2 is the best scripture on the Fall!). Oh yeah, Betsy during Sunday School pointed out she loves the Book of Mormon because we read the Bible a little, kind of confusing. We ran to another place, then another to teach Susan. Ran into a sticky situation because we taught some commandments then reviewed the baptismal questions...then the Word of Wisdom came up so we went into that (led by the Spirit). She likes...green tea. Not that bad, but still. At first she didn't like the idea of switching to herbal tea. Then Woods went into the blessings of keeping this law, and she's like 'Ok I'll do it if I get blessings.' Wow, that was...easy? Dinner and then off to visit Shenice with Sister Dutton (just a fabulous member). Shenice was tired, as were we, but we hung in there...and I loved the spiritual experiences that Sis. Dutton shared. It made Woods point out, afterwards, that we need to be more personal in the majority of our lessons...that's what we're missing! She put a viewpoint on the Gospel regarding the Plan of Salvation. God will put us where we are comfortable at the end of this life. She said she doesn't like change, but she knows she wants to be comfortable in God's presence in the next life. I was like, 'hmm, would I be comfortable in God's presence? Nope.' I learned a lot from her. It was her first time teaming up with missionaries, and she loved it!
Friday was hectic. District meeting, before that a goal setting meeting (ZDM) with the other DL's and ZL's...then I had to go up to Santa Clarita to drop the other elders Sara and Tayler off at the office to get their car (finally got a car). It was weird being back in my old stomping grounds....strange indeed!
Highlights! So Gye, our English student, bought us iced coffee on Wednesday so we taught the Word of Wisdom (kind of a recurring theme here, eh?) and she apologized...then she gave it to her neighbors that night. Really great woman, really open to us. Mike didn't get the title of liberty scripture we gave him, but when we explained it he really liked it. He was all gung-ho about it. Pretty sweet when you understand the words and apply them! June's daughter was sick again, she's anemic...poor little girl...so we couldn't meet with him last week. And meeting with Crystal, Enrique and Franky was out of hand! I got distracted because they were asking questions at the same time...really disconcerting. But, we answered their questions to the best of our abilities and left something to read so we won't have to answer the rest of their questions. Super busy week! Lots of fun though!
By the way, Elder Raleigh is with me again...he was in my first district ever! What a riot he is...haha it's so fun being around him. We do joke around TOO much it's sort of a problem when one is trying to get to bed. Good kid though. He's almost done, that is so crazy! The greenie (now in his second transfer) is so much happier now his trainer is gone...we're having a blast over here!
Yesterday was pretty sweet. So after we visit the Lunas and express how happy we were to see them at church, we went contacting. I felt prompted to stop the car at a road close to the apartment and to contact there. We contacted there the night before, but we went on the other side of the street. Rejected here and there, until we keep walking down the sidewalk and see a black man walking up to us. I asked Woods, 'Hey is he walking away or towards us?' He said, 'His arms are swinging towards us so he's walking towards us.' Good analysis Woods. We start to talk to him about the Restoration, and he just stands there in awe. Overwhelmed, but he realized he was missing a prophet. He said, 'well if it's true I'm missing something then.' Really open man (he was black too...really awesome!). The Spirit was working through us, and it really touched him when Elder Woods shared the First Vision with him, and it was just what the Spirit needed to prick this man's heart. He was excited and a bit amazed at our message. The only problem is he lives in Ventura, out of our mission, and we couldn't get his phone number. But it was a great contact! Oh man! Mind-blowing! Just because I parked the car on the street unplanned. He took our card, and went his way with our telephone number written on it. I just hope he calls us, and we'll get him to the right people. Wow...a great contact. We ended up praying to thank the Lord for his kindness in letting us be strengthened by that contact. I was in shock for a little bit. Wow!
Time really flies...when one works. I know the Lord sent me here to prepare someone...I just don't know who. We'll see what happens though, I'm super excited. I know something big will happen here, but I must be patient. I love my district, and I love my mission leaders. There's no one better!
I'm happy all is well back home. I love you all, and stay safe.
Love,
Spencer
P.S. Woods' birthday is in October..? So if you have any ideas of what a missionary would need, could you send him a card and maybe a little package? Thanks mom! I just can't get away from him...it's against the rules to get a surprise gift for you comp (jk! but almost impossible without him knowing).
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