Thanks for the update on all that's been happening. I'm glad that you've all been enjoying the pool. Make sure you do a little splashing for Elder Parker who can't swim, and is in the desert. lol
The bike is awesome! It really does ride well. Steve Gines (Mormon bike guy for this area) came over to take a look at it. He said that the bike that they got me (a Diamondback Edgewood) is a really good bike. I'm psyched to have it! It's very comfortable and it rides smoothly. Thank you for letting the Todd's help me. I know the Lord will bless them for the service.
We finally set someone for baptism! We got a text referral for a younger couple. They were a little standoffish at first, but they are extremely friendly. We taught them a couple times and invited them to church. Mom, I'm telling you that they absolutely LOVED it. We told some of the members that they were coming. When they came, we introduced them to some of the members of the ward. It makes a world of difference when investigators are welcomed into the church on their first Sunday and other Sundays after that.
I'm glad you sent me that part from Stefanie's blog. I've actually been thinking about humility in the past week. In the last Zone Conference, the main point was about being master teachers (a different one from the King Benjamin one). President Christensen pulled me aside ( he could tell that I was a little down -I doubt my abilities as a teacher) and told me that I was an amazing missionary, and that he doesn't know what he needs to do to help me see it. He told me that I can't be too hard on myself. I wrote him that P-day with an experience that I had while studying humility. This is what he wrote in response:
"Elder Parker, I'm sending this clip from your email back to you because I want you to read it every Thursday for the rest of the transfer. It is inspired.
Love
President Christensen"
(what I wrote in the email):
"I get down on myself a lot, and sometimes I don't try to see what I'm doing well. I think I get that from my dad. He said that sometimes he is his own worst enemy. That's how I think about myself at times. I remember though, something that I learned while I was studying humility. I realized that TRUE humility is seeing yourself as God sees you. Bragging about yourself is trying to put yourself higher, and beating yourself up only brings you lower. Both are symptoms of PRIDE, because you are trying to change your true value. Not once did Christ speak low of Himself, nor did He try to make Himself higher than others. He taught humbly that He was the way."
This is something that I've learned about humility. We can't be humble and beat ourselves down at the same time. By doing so we put ourselves at the top of the "natural man" list. (Pres. C. told me that). We need to humbly accept that we are not a lost cause and that we CAN do it. The Lord CAN strengthen us. NOTHING is impossible for Him. Like Stefanie, I too had a problem with the language (I still do). I wondered if I was only hindering the work. But my district leader, Elder Pinto, talked to me about that. The Lord used people like Moses and Enoch (who were "slow of speech") to prove that he can take an imperfect and talentless boy, and turn him into a powerful, humble, and faithful man, worthy to work miracles and teach with power and authority from God. I don't know if I'll perform miracles on my mission, nor do I know that I'll receive visions from angels, but I DO know that God can take this imperfect, obsessive lad with Tourette's and turn him into a master teacher. It's really hard to keep confidence at times, but I know I can do it.
Take care and be happy. Don't let the small things get hold of you. Take things one step at a time. Diane sent me a letter and in it she said that "worrying is like rocking a rocking chair: you have a whole lot of motion, but you don't get anywhere."
I love you!
con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Miles emailed, I didn't update...
June 10, 2010
Awesome experiences this past week and I've been feeling very happy. I'm not sure if we're getting any baptisms this transfer, but definitely next. I've learned to accept the Lord's will since I arrived. I remember that Preach My Gospel says that our success is NOT based on our accomplishments or number of baptisms. Rather, it is measured by our diligence, faith, and obedience to the mission rules and the Spirit. I've been trying to be obedient, so I think that's why I feel so great.
Speaking of Preach My Gospel, do you know if it's being used by the members in the stake (or the leaders at the least). I know I've told you before, but Preach My Gospel is amazing, especially if you read the scriptures and answer the questions. Even start as a family. Of course this is just an idea, but I know that if you all read and study as a family (just like reading the scriptures) you'll find yourselves better tools in the hands of the Lord. There is NOTHING more satisfying (at least for me right now) than seeing someone change their life for the better. As you study it, you'll learn what you can do to help out with missionary work. As you help out, you'll find that the Lord will bless you more than you can think. You'll develop the Christ-like attributes a lot faster than if you were to do anything else.
I showed a member the picture that I have with the entire family during the reunion. They were impressed. President Christensen was impressed too (he saw the calendar that I have). I really miss you guys, but I'm glad I have the opportunity to help people feel the love that I feel when I'm with you guys. I'm glad I have the opportunity to help other people build celestial families.
Mom, I'm glad that you're enjoying your new calling. That activity sounded WAY fun. I've always been impressed with how creative you are. I've been trying to tap into your creative gene at times to help out with lessons and trainings that I give.
There's been a stomach virus going around here too. One of the sisters in our district got sick with it, as well as a couple of members. I'm good though. Remember, I was a Blue Knight, and we can CHOOSE when we want to be sick. (so says Jamal)
I've been having a great time. I'm so glad that you taught me how to work hard. It's really helped me out a lot out here.
My companion and I have been teaching a girl named Arlene. I think I told you about her, but to be brief, she's quite awesome. She has been reading and praying almost everyday. She's been keeping ALL of her commitments. She used to smoke and drink, but now she turns it down. If her friends or family are offering it to her, and she feels like she's gonna cave, she'll separate herself (run just like Joseph of Egypt) and call us for help. One of the most recent things she gave up was her tongue jewelry. As soon as we told her, she took them out, but then she put them on the table. We asked her if she could get the others, and she brought out a used mint container that contained her tongue piercings. Then she set them on the table and stared at them. She started to cry a little as she explained that they reminded her of "good times" and that she didn't want to give them up. It was so interesting to see how something so small, could take an hour of convincing to give up. We talked to her about her scheduled baptism and how she feels when she feels the Spirit. We mentioned to her that she is leaving behind her old life, so that she can start a new and happier life. It was a little hard; the TV was on, her parents were talking, it was hot. My companion asked if we could offer a prayer. So he prayed and then we waited. After a minute, she sighed, a tear rolled from her eye, and she handed us ALL of her extra piercings. Since then she's kinda missed them, but she's doing fine now. The love of God and the power of the Atonement of Christ are real. She's testified to us of how this Gospel has helped her change her life around. She's happy for the first time in her life. This is why missionary work is so enjoyable. To be a part of the conversion of others is an honor bestowed by God to us as missionaries. As we teach and help others, our own testimonies and spirits grow. I love mission work!
I'm going to be sending the SD card off to you this week. There are a few from a ward Family Home Evening… they have one every first Monday of each month. I'm sorry that there aren’t many pictures. The camera is breaking... you'll notice some pictures have lines cuz something is wrong. I'm not sure what though. I've been taking good care of it too.
Thought I'd let you know, it's summer now, and it's really hot but I have yet to get burned. Also, while it is hot, it's quite dry, so I'm able to withstand it better. I do miss the breezes we’d get at home though. Here, the winds are hot as well, so it's like turning on a blow dryer.
June 17, 2010
I don't know if you know what a 7-11 is, but we have them ALL OVER Las Vegas. They have Slurpee cups from the biggest movies that are coming out. I have to say that “A-Team” looks pretty cool. Who plays B.A Barracus? Whoever it is, I pity the fool if he doesn’t do a Mr. T. - rated job.
Several people told me about Diane's baptism. YAHOO!! *jump-in-the-air* The only other baptisms I think might have had that many people is Stefanie Barker's or Amber Fessler's (now Amber Salmon). As much as I would've LOVED to be there, I know that this is where I need and want to be. I don't think there is any place I'd rather be right now than right here. I'm glad that you and the other Enterprise families were able to go. I cannot express how grateful I am to all those who are a support to Diane. I look back on how things have been going on at home since I left and I know that my service is blessing you all back home. I don't mean to sound proud, but knowing that my family and friends receive blessings keeps me motivated even when work is slow. I absolutely love being on a mission, especially here in Las Vegas.
My companion and I are doing great. We get along amazingly, but transfers are coming, and he's been in this area for a while, so he might be leaving. We're not getting any baptisms this transfer either. It's been hard to go for so long without any baptisms. In half a year, I've baptized two people. Now, I know that success isn't determined by the number of baptisms, but sometimes it's hard to think that you are a successful missionary when nothing shows for the efforts that you put in. I just gotta have more patience is all.
I don't have much time for extra letters today because we climbed the mountain next to the temple. I'm also out of ink on my typewriter, so I'll have to handwrite my letters until I can get some ink cartridges.
We had an awesome day yesterday, a Spanish conference. President took all of the Spanish-speaking missionaries and we had a conference on how Spanish missionaries specifically can work harder and better. Spanish and English cultures are EXTREMELY different...... just in case you didn't notice. It was a spiritual experience, and many goals were set. I'm trying a little harder, I just hope I can have the energy to do all that I want.
I'm sorry this is a little short. Just know that I truly am excited and that I'm not homesick. I'm happy to see how my service is blessing my family AND friends. I love you very much and thank you for your words of encouragement. You needn't worry Mom. I'm not homesick at all.
June 24, 2010
I'm kinda frustrated right now, to tell you the truth. My P-days are ALWAYS crammed with stuff I have to do and I have SO many letters to write. It seems like one little thing just piles up on another. The pile of stuff I have to do is so high it seems like I'll never get it done. Plus, I have to call for a whole bunch of rides, and the members here are not very helpful so we end up calling the same ones over and over again. We also have nothing here in our area. No Walmart, no post office, no bike shop, nothing. Well, we do have a mini Walmart with food and cleaning stuff. I guess I'm just really upset about my SD card disappearing in the mail. I had a lot of pictures on that thing. I can't get any duplicate pictures - no one else has them. My first companion did, but he's back home in Mexico.
I hate to think that P-days are more of a hassle than a blessing, but that's the way it seems right now. I just wish I wasn't so rushed.
I’m sorry…I realize how selfish I am being. I'm sorry for ranting on like that.
Nevada is DEFINITELY sunny. It's about 105 degrees or something like that, but it's a dry heat, so it's not that terrible. As for wildlife, there's not much that lives out here. I have seen a rabbit - well I guess it's actually a hare since it's the desert. I've also seen a road runner running across the church parking lot one time. I wasn't quick enough to get the picture though. The one thing that IS plentiful here is pigeons. ugh.......... I HATE pigeons, they are ALWAYS in the way.
My Spanish is still coming along, the biggest difficulty is understanding what people are saying. As for zone conferences, they are great. President Christensen really knows how to run one. Each one has been a spiritual feast for me. They've helped me set goals to make myself a better missionary.
I'll try to share one spiritual experience that happened yesterday. As we were biking, we came across this one man. We asked if we could share a message with him, and he was kind of stand-offish as he told us he was from a Baptist church. I explained to him that the message that we share was unique because we teach that we have a prophet and another book of scripture. We continued to talk to him and he mentioned that he could feel the Holy Spirit as we talked with him. He said he could see an illumination in our eyes. He liked how we were happy as we talked with him. We got his number and we're gonna try to send the English missionaries over. After all was said and done, I thought about what Mom told me some time ago; that the spirit changes our countenance. I guess that's what happened yesterday. Whatever the case may be, I'm glad that I was worthy to serve as a vessel for the Spirit. So that's my spiritual thought. It was pretty cool in my opinion. It made me feel really good.
Take care, sorry for the negativity.
I love you!
July 1, 2010
Thanks for understanding my attitude last week. I got better later on. It's really hard to forgive yourself though....I really am my own worst enemy sometimes. I'm so glad that the Atonement is real.
Our leadership here in the ward is awesome. I was thinking about it, but maybe I was also sent here to Las Vegas to learn more about leadership, besides just serving a mission. I know I have a long way to go, but I am anxious to use the stuff that I've learned out here, when I get back home. I wish that we could always remember that sacrifice is what moves this work. Sometimes we start thinking about now and what we want. Being on a mission has really helped me learn how to put me LAST.
Right now I am serving in Sunrise, which is a Stake of Las Vegas. I'm not in Paradise anymore, which is also a stake and not a city, but you did hit the nail on the head. There's really not much I can do to fix my bike while I am here. I'm riding a borrowed bike right now because mine it out of commission....... again. Elder Berkey (my new companion) said that Satan and Bikes are missionaries' worst enemies; LOL. Then the ink ribbon for sure needs to be special ordered. I can do it at Office Depot, but we don't have one. I'll send you the box with the ink ribbon in it so you can see what type it is. Just to let you know about the bike, the things that I need for it are: new brake pads, new brake cables, new tire, a new rim for the back tire (very expensive) new shocks, and a new chain. The only thing worth keeping on the bike is the frame and the seat. Let Jacob know, maybe he can tell me how to fix at least one of these things… as I said, my bike's rim is out and I noticed yesterday that my back wheel was wobbling and scraping against the brakes, so I stopped and inspected it. The tire was bulged and had ripped the metal lip on the rim. When I saw it I got off and as soon as I did..... pssssssssssssss. There went the tube too. lol. I was actually a good sport about it.
So I'm on the “Elder Cox diet“, which is nothing that has above 3 grams of sugar. It's really hard. I've been doing it for about a week. All I'm drinking is water ( I normally do anyway), no soda, no juice, nada. I'm also not eating cereal. I've been able to maintain my weight out here on the mission…actually lost 4 lbs.
Here's a spiritual experience for the week: Two days ago, we tried to contact a referral that we had received a couple days prior. We found the building, but the referral didn't give the letter of the apartment in which they lived. So we decided to knock on all the doors in the apartment complex. When we knocked on the first door, a child opened it up. It wasn't the person we were looking for, but we did see the father in the kitchen and he told us to come in. We talked for a while, and the couple told us how they didn't really feel right in other churches. The mother and father had both been through a lot, but were both extremely friendly, and there was a very warm and friendly spirit that presided in that house. We taught them the first lesson yesterday with a member, and it went pretty well. The member even invited them to church. What made this spiritual to me is this: If the text we got for this referral had the apartment number on it, we wouldn't have knocked on that door. We would've missed a great opportunity to teach a wonderful family. This has Divine intervention written all over it.
Well, there are others waiting to use the computer. I love you lots!
Jul 8, 2010
Wow. Too bad your email got spammed and you had to change emails addresses Dad. I even got an email from your old account that sent me a link to a site for Canadian viagra. Luckily, that was the worst that was sent.
Yes, Sunrise Manor is the same as Sunrise. If you happen to take another look at the map, my area is from Linn in the East to Sandhill in the West, and Lake Mead in the north to Washington in the south. The temple is in our zone too. Unfortunately, we won't be able to go this transfer because they'll be cleaning the temple on our assigned date. Bummer.
So, I like the name for the new kitty. I laughed a lot.
Mission work is going a little slow, but we are working. We've got a couple of people that have potential to be baptized. Arlene has not been baptized. She still has some thing that she needs to clear up. She's also getting worked on really hard by Satan. She's starting to let fear set in, so we're trying to help her out.
Thank you so much for asking the postmaster about the SD card. I was really upset. It's interesting though, how it was recovered AFTER I decided I wouldn't let it bother me. I'm learning to just let small things go. My companion is helping me out with that. In fact, my companion (Elder Berkey) was introduced to the mother of an elder who was going home (one of his previous companions). He told her, "Mom, this was one of my companions, Elder Berkey. The sky could be falling, and he'd be cool with that." He really has helped me to not worry and to just do what you can.
Okay, for my bike measurements: My height is 6'3", my weight is 252 and my stance height is 36 to 38 inches. Just front suspension will be good enough. I’m embarrassed to be asking for so much, but I guess I should just accept it. Who am I to withhold blessings from others? Just make sure you tell the Todds, that I love them a LLOOOOOOOTTTT!! I will pray for them. I am extremely grateful for what they are doing.
I hope I'm not being too much of a burden. Also, Mom, I wanted to say sorry for not recognizing you enough. I'm thankful for all the little things you send me and the emails and bits of news you send me too. I'm sorry I've been a little whiny the past few weeks too. I promise I'll do better. Thanks for all the updates and stuff. Make sure you take care of yourselves. I love you!!!!!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Awesome experiences this past week and I've been feeling very happy. I'm not sure if we're getting any baptisms this transfer, but definitely next. I've learned to accept the Lord's will since I arrived. I remember that Preach My Gospel says that our success is NOT based on our accomplishments or number of baptisms. Rather, it is measured by our diligence, faith, and obedience to the mission rules and the Spirit. I've been trying to be obedient, so I think that's why I feel so great.
Speaking of Preach My Gospel, do you know if it's being used by the members in the stake (or the leaders at the least). I know I've told you before, but Preach My Gospel is amazing, especially if you read the scriptures and answer the questions. Even start as a family. Of course this is just an idea, but I know that if you all read and study as a family (just like reading the scriptures) you'll find yourselves better tools in the hands of the Lord. There is NOTHING more satisfying (at least for me right now) than seeing someone change their life for the better. As you study it, you'll learn what you can do to help out with missionary work. As you help out, you'll find that the Lord will bless you more than you can think. You'll develop the Christ-like attributes a lot faster than if you were to do anything else.
I showed a member the picture that I have with the entire family during the reunion. They were impressed. President Christensen was impressed too (he saw the calendar that I have). I really miss you guys, but I'm glad I have the opportunity to help people feel the love that I feel when I'm with you guys. I'm glad I have the opportunity to help other people build celestial families.
Mom, I'm glad that you're enjoying your new calling. That activity sounded WAY fun. I've always been impressed with how creative you are. I've been trying to tap into your creative gene at times to help out with lessons and trainings that I give.
There's been a stomach virus going around here too. One of the sisters in our district got sick with it, as well as a couple of members. I'm good though. Remember, I was a Blue Knight, and we can CHOOSE when we want to be sick. (so says Jamal)
I've been having a great time. I'm so glad that you taught me how to work hard. It's really helped me out a lot out here.
My companion and I have been teaching a girl named Arlene. I think I told you about her, but to be brief, she's quite awesome. She has been reading and praying almost everyday. She's been keeping ALL of her commitments. She used to smoke and drink, but now she turns it down. If her friends or family are offering it to her, and she feels like she's gonna cave, she'll separate herself (run just like Joseph of Egypt) and call us for help. One of the most recent things she gave up was her tongue jewelry. As soon as we told her, she took them out, but then she put them on the table. We asked her if she could get the others, and she brought out a used mint container that contained her tongue piercings. Then she set them on the table and stared at them. She started to cry a little as she explained that they reminded her of "good times" and that she didn't want to give them up. It was so interesting to see how something so small, could take an hour of convincing to give up. We talked to her about her scheduled baptism and how she feels when she feels the Spirit. We mentioned to her that she is leaving behind her old life, so that she can start a new and happier life. It was a little hard; the TV was on, her parents were talking, it was hot. My companion asked if we could offer a prayer. So he prayed and then we waited. After a minute, she sighed, a tear rolled from her eye, and she handed us ALL of her extra piercings. Since then she's kinda missed them, but she's doing fine now. The love of God and the power of the Atonement of Christ are real. She's testified to us of how this Gospel has helped her change her life around. She's happy for the first time in her life. This is why missionary work is so enjoyable. To be a part of the conversion of others is an honor bestowed by God to us as missionaries. As we teach and help others, our own testimonies and spirits grow. I love mission work!
I'm going to be sending the SD card off to you this week. There are a few from a ward Family Home Evening… they have one every first Monday of each month. I'm sorry that there aren’t many pictures. The camera is breaking... you'll notice some pictures have lines cuz something is wrong. I'm not sure what though. I've been taking good care of it too.
Thought I'd let you know, it's summer now, and it's really hot but I have yet to get burned. Also, while it is hot, it's quite dry, so I'm able to withstand it better. I do miss the breezes we’d get at home though. Here, the winds are hot as well, so it's like turning on a blow dryer.
June 17, 2010
I don't know if you know what a 7-11 is, but we have them ALL OVER Las Vegas. They have Slurpee cups from the biggest movies that are coming out. I have to say that “A-Team” looks pretty cool. Who plays B.A Barracus? Whoever it is, I pity the fool if he doesn’t do a Mr. T. - rated job.
Several people told me about Diane's baptism. YAHOO!! *jump-in-the-air* The only other baptisms I think might have had that many people is Stefanie Barker's or Amber Fessler's (now Amber Salmon). As much as I would've LOVED to be there, I know that this is where I need and want to be. I don't think there is any place I'd rather be right now than right here. I'm glad that you and the other Enterprise families were able to go. I cannot express how grateful I am to all those who are a support to Diane. I look back on how things have been going on at home since I left and I know that my service is blessing you all back home. I don't mean to sound proud, but knowing that my family and friends receive blessings keeps me motivated even when work is slow. I absolutely love being on a mission, especially here in Las Vegas.
My companion and I are doing great. We get along amazingly, but transfers are coming, and he's been in this area for a while, so he might be leaving. We're not getting any baptisms this transfer either. It's been hard to go for so long without any baptisms. In half a year, I've baptized two people. Now, I know that success isn't determined by the number of baptisms, but sometimes it's hard to think that you are a successful missionary when nothing shows for the efforts that you put in. I just gotta have more patience is all.
I don't have much time for extra letters today because we climbed the mountain next to the temple. I'm also out of ink on my typewriter, so I'll have to handwrite my letters until I can get some ink cartridges.
We had an awesome day yesterday, a Spanish conference. President took all of the Spanish-speaking missionaries and we had a conference on how Spanish missionaries specifically can work harder and better. Spanish and English cultures are EXTREMELY different...... just in case you didn't notice. It was a spiritual experience, and many goals were set. I'm trying a little harder, I just hope I can have the energy to do all that I want.
I'm sorry this is a little short. Just know that I truly am excited and that I'm not homesick. I'm happy to see how my service is blessing my family AND friends. I love you very much and thank you for your words of encouragement. You needn't worry Mom. I'm not homesick at all.
June 24, 2010
I'm kinda frustrated right now, to tell you the truth. My P-days are ALWAYS crammed with stuff I have to do and I have SO many letters to write. It seems like one little thing just piles up on another. The pile of stuff I have to do is so high it seems like I'll never get it done. Plus, I have to call for a whole bunch of rides, and the members here are not very helpful so we end up calling the same ones over and over again. We also have nothing here in our area. No Walmart, no post office, no bike shop, nothing. Well, we do have a mini Walmart with food and cleaning stuff. I guess I'm just really upset about my SD card disappearing in the mail. I had a lot of pictures on that thing. I can't get any duplicate pictures - no one else has them. My first companion did, but he's back home in Mexico.
I hate to think that P-days are more of a hassle than a blessing, but that's the way it seems right now. I just wish I wasn't so rushed.
I’m sorry…I realize how selfish I am being. I'm sorry for ranting on like that.
Nevada is DEFINITELY sunny. It's about 105 degrees or something like that, but it's a dry heat, so it's not that terrible. As for wildlife, there's not much that lives out here. I have seen a rabbit - well I guess it's actually a hare since it's the desert. I've also seen a road runner running across the church parking lot one time. I wasn't quick enough to get the picture though. The one thing that IS plentiful here is pigeons. ugh.......... I HATE pigeons, they are ALWAYS in the way.
My Spanish is still coming along, the biggest difficulty is understanding what people are saying. As for zone conferences, they are great. President Christensen really knows how to run one. Each one has been a spiritual feast for me. They've helped me set goals to make myself a better missionary.
I'll try to share one spiritual experience that happened yesterday. As we were biking, we came across this one man. We asked if we could share a message with him, and he was kind of stand-offish as he told us he was from a Baptist church. I explained to him that the message that we share was unique because we teach that we have a prophet and another book of scripture. We continued to talk to him and he mentioned that he could feel the Holy Spirit as we talked with him. He said he could see an illumination in our eyes. He liked how we were happy as we talked with him. We got his number and we're gonna try to send the English missionaries over. After all was said and done, I thought about what Mom told me some time ago; that the spirit changes our countenance. I guess that's what happened yesterday. Whatever the case may be, I'm glad that I was worthy to serve as a vessel for the Spirit. So that's my spiritual thought. It was pretty cool in my opinion. It made me feel really good.
Take care, sorry for the negativity.
I love you!
July 1, 2010
Thanks for understanding my attitude last week. I got better later on. It's really hard to forgive yourself though....I really am my own worst enemy sometimes. I'm so glad that the Atonement is real.
Our leadership here in the ward is awesome. I was thinking about it, but maybe I was also sent here to Las Vegas to learn more about leadership, besides just serving a mission. I know I have a long way to go, but I am anxious to use the stuff that I've learned out here, when I get back home. I wish that we could always remember that sacrifice is what moves this work. Sometimes we start thinking about now and what we want. Being on a mission has really helped me learn how to put me LAST.
Right now I am serving in Sunrise, which is a Stake of Las Vegas. I'm not in Paradise anymore, which is also a stake and not a city, but you did hit the nail on the head. There's really not much I can do to fix my bike while I am here. I'm riding a borrowed bike right now because mine it out of commission....... again. Elder Berkey (my new companion) said that Satan and Bikes are missionaries' worst enemies; LOL. Then the ink ribbon for sure needs to be special ordered. I can do it at Office Depot, but we don't have one. I'll send you the box with the ink ribbon in it so you can see what type it is. Just to let you know about the bike, the things that I need for it are: new brake pads, new brake cables, new tire, a new rim for the back tire (very expensive) new shocks, and a new chain. The only thing worth keeping on the bike is the frame and the seat. Let Jacob know, maybe he can tell me how to fix at least one of these things… as I said, my bike's rim is out and I noticed yesterday that my back wheel was wobbling and scraping against the brakes, so I stopped and inspected it. The tire was bulged and had ripped the metal lip on the rim. When I saw it I got off and as soon as I did..... pssssssssssssss. There went the tube too. lol. I was actually a good sport about it.
So I'm on the “Elder Cox diet“, which is nothing that has above 3 grams of sugar. It's really hard. I've been doing it for about a week. All I'm drinking is water ( I normally do anyway), no soda, no juice, nada. I'm also not eating cereal. I've been able to maintain my weight out here on the mission…actually lost 4 lbs.
Here's a spiritual experience for the week: Two days ago, we tried to contact a referral that we had received a couple days prior. We found the building, but the referral didn't give the letter of the apartment in which they lived. So we decided to knock on all the doors in the apartment complex. When we knocked on the first door, a child opened it up. It wasn't the person we were looking for, but we did see the father in the kitchen and he told us to come in. We talked for a while, and the couple told us how they didn't really feel right in other churches. The mother and father had both been through a lot, but were both extremely friendly, and there was a very warm and friendly spirit that presided in that house. We taught them the first lesson yesterday with a member, and it went pretty well. The member even invited them to church. What made this spiritual to me is this: If the text we got for this referral had the apartment number on it, we wouldn't have knocked on that door. We would've missed a great opportunity to teach a wonderful family. This has Divine intervention written all over it.
Well, there are others waiting to use the computer. I love you lots!
Jul 8, 2010
Wow. Too bad your email got spammed and you had to change emails addresses Dad. I even got an email from your old account that sent me a link to a site for Canadian viagra. Luckily, that was the worst that was sent.
Yes, Sunrise Manor is the same as Sunrise. If you happen to take another look at the map, my area is from Linn in the East to Sandhill in the West, and Lake Mead in the north to Washington in the south. The temple is in our zone too. Unfortunately, we won't be able to go this transfer because they'll be cleaning the temple on our assigned date. Bummer.
So, I like the name for the new kitty. I laughed a lot.
Mission work is going a little slow, but we are working. We've got a couple of people that have potential to be baptized. Arlene has not been baptized. She still has some thing that she needs to clear up. She's also getting worked on really hard by Satan. She's starting to let fear set in, so we're trying to help her out.
Thank you so much for asking the postmaster about the SD card. I was really upset. It's interesting though, how it was recovered AFTER I decided I wouldn't let it bother me. I'm learning to just let small things go. My companion is helping me out with that. In fact, my companion (Elder Berkey) was introduced to the mother of an elder who was going home (one of his previous companions). He told her, "Mom, this was one of my companions, Elder Berkey. The sky could be falling, and he'd be cool with that." He really has helped me to not worry and to just do what you can.
Okay, for my bike measurements: My height is 6'3", my weight is 252 and my stance height is 36 to 38 inches. Just front suspension will be good enough. I’m embarrassed to be asking for so much, but I guess I should just accept it. Who am I to withhold blessings from others? Just make sure you tell the Todds, that I love them a LLOOOOOOOTTTT!! I will pray for them. I am extremely grateful for what they are doing.
I hope I'm not being too much of a burden. Also, Mom, I wanted to say sorry for not recognizing you enough. I'm thankful for all the little things you send me and the emails and bits of news you send me too. I'm sorry I've been a little whiny the past few weeks too. I promise I'll do better. Thanks for all the updates and stuff. Make sure you take care of yourselves. I love you!!!!!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
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