April 29, 2010
The Desert is getting hotter and hotter. It hit 95 a couple of days ago, but at night it is really nice.
Speaking of elders and being "green"; next week, I will officially not be green. Can you believe it? I'll have been gone for 6 months next week. The time is flying by so quickly. They say that once you hit your 1 year mark, the time goes by even faster.
Also, are you guys giving referrals to the missionaries? Gordon B. Hinckley said that mission work is most successful when the members are involved. When members accompany us to lessons, when they invite investigators to their houses, or when they refer their friends to the missionaries, baptisms rise. If you guys will pray during family prayer every night to know which of the friends are ready for the Gospel, God will let you know. As you become involved in missionary work, you'll find that things at home and in your personal lives will go a lot better. I promise you.
Teaching lessons is going better. I still have a lot of work to do on my Spanish. As for retention, I think its up to 50%. This is another reason why having members at lessons is so important. Preach My Gospel says that there are two types of concerns: doctrinal and social. We as missionaries are responsible for taking care of the doctrinal concerns, but members are responsible for taking care of the social concerns. Why is that? Oh, thanks for asking. I'll tell you why. It's because missionaries have no life. We are not normal. IE: We don't have to worry about school, work, money, politics, gas, cars, girls, etc. But members are the ones that can befriend, help, and work with our investigators. In all reality, if a convert of member goes inactive, it isn't the missionaries' fault. It's the ward's fault. That's why every member is a missionary.
We've also found some awesome investigators. One of them is set for baptism too. Her name is Linda. She's and older woman of 65 years. Her husband left her 20 years ago for another woman. She's diabetic, and her legs aren't doing well either. She's been humbled by the Lord. The first day that we met her, she told us that her goal is to join the church. She came to church last Sunday and boy did she enjoy it. The sisters in the ward were extremely supportive of her.
As for relations, we're doing really good with the obispo (bishop). It's really hard though to get the other auxiliaries active though, especially the relief society president. I think she gets mad at us ‘cuz we expect her to do her job.
Diane is taking the discussions? That's awesome!!!! I'm so flippin' happy for her! Shelby wrote me a letter not too long ago and told me that she's been bringing Diane to church too. I'm eager to know whether or not she's being baptized. She's got a good head on her shoulders. That's why I went out with her. :)
Amber and Russell????? WOW!!!! I totally didn't see THAT one coming. Russell and Amber are going to be great together. They’re both strong in the Gospel and they both are just great, all-around people. I'm uber excited for them. Randall Winters too. What’s his fiancé’s name?
Writing emails is getting a little harder now because we are using computers in a timed library.
I'll let you guys know the details on the Mother’s Day call later. Although I'd like to call when everyone is there, just know that it may not be that way. If the mission pres has rules as to when we can call, I'm going to follow them. Just remember, the more obedient I am, the more blessings YOU ALL receive.
Thank you (as always) for your love and support. I love you so please take care. Be safe, and be happy. I'm looking forward to the call home in a week.
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
May 6th, 2010
I think it's nice that Royal and Elizabeth kind of named the new baby after you. You deserve it mom. Remember that I love you too.
Yes I did get the box. Thank you very much. I especially liked the wasabi peanuts. I love wasabi. I actually have a funny story about wasabi. As you may know, wasabi is green. Recently we went to a Chinese buffet. My companion found some "guacamole" and put a lot of it on his plate and then put some of the chicken in the "guac", took a bite, and the rest, as they say, is history. YIKES! what a surprise!
I am able to get most of the things that I need. I DO need some stamps though. And I think I might need my camelback canteen. It's already in the 90s, and it'll only get hotter.
I'm really excited that you got a new calling. I know that you'll do your best to fulfill your calling-- I'm glad you taught me to work hard. It's definitely paying off as a missionary.
Just to let you know what's going on. This Saturday is a baptism. Do you remember Carlitos (I don't remember if I told you about him) We were teaching him until they
re-zoned us. The elders who took that part of our area continued to teach him. Now he's getting baptized this Saturday and he asked me to baptize him. I feel honored.
Also, last night, a woman came up while we were at the church and asked us for a blessing. We went into a classroom and it was decided that I was to give the blessing (THANKFULLY it was in English). As I started to give the blessing, the words flowed from my mouth. I started to remember some of the words that I heard Dad say whenever he gave me blessings. I told her that Heavenly Father loves her and that he knows what she's going through (I didn't know squat about what was going on). I talked to her about the Atonement and how she can pray to receive help. I also told her to seek the scriptures and to talk to her family (her father was a bishop). I don't know what her problem was, but she started to cry as I began the blessing, and when I mentioned that her Father in Heaven loved her, she cried harder. The Spirit filled the room, and I could tell that what I was saying was what the Lord wanted me to say, and that it touched her heart. I'm grateful for the Priesthood, and also for the Holy Ghost, who told me what to say. Being an instrument in the Lord's hand is truly an amazing experience. Both the receiver and the giver of the service are edified, and testimonies are strengthened.
I try to respond to everyone. Is there someone that I didn't respond to? You need to tell me if you hear of someone I need to reply to. P-Day isn't as relaxing as some make it out to be. It can be, but because we have to take two other elders with us (they are on bike), I don't get as much time to write letters. We have shopping, cleaning, emails, laundry, and other things to do. It's EXTREMELY difficult to find the time to respond on time to the letters that I get. I try to keep up but things keep piling up, and I can't get them done. I'm not allowed to write letters on any other day than on P-Day, so I can't write at the end of the day when I have a little bit of spare time, before I go to bed
Oh! As for the plan on the phone call, I plan on calling at about 6:00 pm our time. The guidelines say that you should have what you want to talk about planned out. I don't know if I've ever planned out a phone conversation before but I've only got 40 minutes. It can be a little longer if needed, but nothing like 2 hours. I'm really excited to talk too.
I love you very much.
Con mucho Amor,
Elder Parker
p.s. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
May 13, 2010
It was really good to hear from you all on Sunday. Dad, I hope that the advice I gave you about member referrals and retention will help you out. Maybe a couple of trainings during stake meetings might help. Also, leave them with a commitment (the people at the meetings). Preach My Gospel says that "rarely, if ever, should you talk to someone without leaving them with a commitment." If you leave the people with a commitment, and follow up with the leaders on how well they are keeping it (or "if"), your results will be much better.
I loved your stories about the “Knights of Marlboro“ too. I think you should also tell Brice and Cian the stories about your childhood that you used to tell us (of course, change the names to "protect the innocent").
Oh! I got transferred yesterday. I'm in the Sunrise Zone now. I'm actually in a bike area too, so I'm pretty excited. The zone that I'm serving with in is pretty cool. I’m sorry to say that I need money to repair my bike. My bike chain is going, and my brakes are worn...... Let me know by next week if you can help.
I'm sorry this isn't too long. We have a member picking us up in a little bit, so I gotta hurry. This P-day didn't go as planned.
Love you all!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
PS: Mom, thanks for talking with Diane. :)
May 20th 2010
Before I begin, let me tell you that I'm sorry that the emails will be short. I was transferred to a bike area, so we have members to come and pick us up each P-day to do email and shopping. So if there are certain things that you'd like to know, make sure you ask questions.
I think it's interesting that you told Jotty that he should give a talk on how seminary preps for a mission, ‘cuz that's EXACTLY what I told him. I think it'd be good for some students to see a youth who is focused on serving and preparing for a mission. I don't think serving a mission is stressed enough in the stake.
Before I close, I'll share something that I've learned from the Book of Mormon. In my personal study, I've just finished up the book of Helaman. I noticed how bold Samuel the Lamanite was as he preached upon the wall. Just yesterday, we shared a scripture with a family whose son had just finished arguing with his girlfriend. We shared 3rd Nephi 11:27 with them and explained to them what contention was. We also explained to them the difference between contention and boldness. We explained that sometimes boldness may come across as being contentious, but when we are bold, we are loving, and we are trying to help people repent. If we are not bold, they will not recognize their mistakes, and if they don't recognize their mistakes, they won't repent and come unto Christ. Samuel the Lamanite was the perfect example of boldness. He didn't fear what man would do. He taught his message so that the people couldn't misunderstand what he was saying. Because he was bold, many people were reconverted to the Lord, and many people found the source of Salvation and everlasting happiness.
Once again, I'm sorry that this isn't too long. Know that I love you more than you think. Until next time, take care!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
May 27, 2010
Yeah Dad, I like the idea of the vertical thinking. I'm glad that we get that drilled in our heads as missionaries.
Something I forgot to tell you about. About a month ago, I ran into a "Sergeant" Richard. He was a homeless guy who fought in Vietnam. I told him about you and about Daniel and the whole experience. He started to get a little teary, then he said "Come here you little $%^%$! Gimme some!" He gave me a high five and pounded my fist. I thought is was funny. "Your dad is a great man." he said. He also said that he wanted me to give you a hug and a kiss from him. I think I'll skip the kiss, but when I get back, remember that my first hug is from me and the second one is from him OK?
Work is going better. We've got an interesting area. One of our investigators just got off probation, and two others are recently in trouble with the law. Interesting eh? What's even more interesting is that these three people are the most prepared to join the Gospel of Jesus Christ and be baptized.
As for my bike: I'm pretty sure that I can fix the bike myself. I'll see what I can do. Thank you for understanding.
Speaking of cameras, mine is actually going; however, one of the members in our ward is giving me her old one. They do a LOT for us. I want to bring you out here after my mission so you can meet some of these people. The members here are awesome! President Christensen is as well. I know I haven't mentioned much about him. I all can say is that he DEFINITELY has the spirit with him.
Well, I gotta go. I'll start thinking about spiritual experiences the day before. I'm sorry I'm not doing too good on reporting things. I'll do better. I love you very much. Take care and be happy!
Elder Parker
June 3rd, 2010
WAHOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm super excited for Diane and Kim. Kim's been writing me about the guy that she's dating. I made the prediction she’d be engaged soon. As for Diane, I'm way excited for her being able to be baptized. She kept her promise.
Wow..... were you at work or at the house when the car was broken into? Did you file a police report? That kind of makes me angry too. All they took was your Sirius radio? Stealing is pretty big here in Vegas too.
Oh, by the way: In the Sunrise area where I am, I'm actually a bike ride away from the temple. Well.... a long bike ride, but still a bike ride. I think I could get into biking, even when I get back home. I really enjoy it and it’s a great way to exercise. In fact, I learned a couple of tricks too. I tried riding a wheelie just yesterday. I got it really good, but then I fell backwards. Pretty funny actually. I just need a little more practice.
Things are going really good right now. It's a little hard getting LTMs, but we're still making progress. My Spanish is improving steadily. Also, we've been making progress with a girl named Arlene. She's a 17 year old mother who my companion and his previous companion contacted last transfer. To put a long story short, they knocked on her door, she answered, and now she's ready for baptism. It's been amazing to see her progress.
She's been reading and praying. She's also been coming to church. She's extremely diligent in keeping the commandments too. Just a couple days ago, she gave us her "sin box." for us to throw away. In it was a razor and the last of her cigarettes. She told us that she is serious about this, and that if she's going to do this, she's going to do this right. I kept thinking about what mom would say, "do it right, or don't do it at all" (at least I think I heard her say that). Arlene has also called us to keep from falling into temptation. She's ready for baptism now, but she's got one more problem that she needs to solve before we can give her a date. It's amazing to see the happiness that comes from changing from a "natural man" to a saint of Christ.
Well, that's all I have right now. I'm really enjoying serving in this area. I've met a lot of great people. Take care. Remember to keep a positive attitude and remember to take things one step at a time (that's one thing I'm learning out here on my mission). I love you lots!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Monday, June 7, 2010
Sunday, April 25, 2010
March and April letters (lots of update)
March 4th, 2010
Yes... I am journaling a lot. I’ve probably missed 7 days since I've left in November. It really does help me find a sense of identity. I can also track my progress too. If you ever hear someone (mainly teenagers) say that they are "trying to find myself" tell them to keep a journal… it helps.
I am in the same area, same apartment. My new companion, Elder Gonzalez, is awesome. I especially like how he tries to raise the bar every now and then. The other two baptisms, Carlos and Carlos Jr.,had to be postponed until March 27th. Do you remember Daniel (the husband of Gloria)? We set him for baptism on the 20th. I don't know what was different this time, but after a year of not listening, he decided to take the lessons. We're also planning on setting three others. Salamon (whom we found on the street) and Ramon and Rhonda. Ramon had been contacted in Boulder City 5years ago. Rhonda (who doesn't speak Spanish) studies religion. They have a baby boy (HUGE baby boy, not even two years old and he's bigger than Cian) named Elisha. She was barren, but through God, they were able to have Elisha. All three of those we’re teaching ask very good questions, and have a real interest to learn more. I just hope we can get them to make the changes.
Don't worry Dad, I'm getting fed quite well. The Hispanic culture has mastered the culinary arts!
I've heard about the earthquakes too. Revelations talks about terrible earthquakes in diverse places. It's starting to seem like more and more of the signs of the times are coming true.
Regarding that changed traffic sign you missed Dad…just another reminder that we ALWAYS have to pay attention: Kind of like in the gospel. We can't afford to miss a ‘raising of the bar’ in the standards, or let up just a little bit because we’ll allow Satan to pull the wool over our eyes.
I love you all and Mom, I miss our looooong midnight chats. You'd be happy to know though, that Pres. and Sis Christensen treat us like their own children, so I'm not parentless right now. Our zone conference on Tuesday was AMAZING!!! The topic was on revelation. You'd love Pres Christensen…he's extremely spiritual.
March 11th
It finally dawned on me that I've been gone for 4 months. I can still remember the day I entered the MTC as if it was yesterday. It's really bizarre how some days kind of drag, but the weeks seem to zoom by. It’s like time is going at two different speeds at the same time.
We use both car and bike. Surprisingly, my knee hasn't bothered me one bit while I've been bike riding. Either the surgery worked after all or it is one more way I have been blessed.
We had interviews with President Christensen yesterday, and he asked that I e-mail you something that we talked about: Yesterday, he asked me "What are three things you've learned on your mission so far?" I thought for about a minute. The first one I said was Sacrifice. I love in the hymn, "Praise to the Man" where it says that "sacrifice brings forth the blessing of heaven." I've found this to be true. Ever since I left, things seem to have been going good for all of the family and even for some of my friends. Mom, you were able to afford to fix your hearing aids. Amry took a stand for the standards of the Church. JaNae lost her job but that allowed her to take time to spend with the kids, and more time to study for her classes. Jotty’s friend has listened to gospel discussions and things have even been looking up for Diane--she's started family home evening in her house, her Dad let her apply to BYU, and he's let her start going to church. The more I sacrifice, the more blessings my loved ones have received.
The second thing I said was “obedience with exactness“. I've learned that in order for us to successfully serve the Lord, we need to be worthy to receive inspiration and revelation from the Spirit. In order to receive help from the Spirit, we need to be obedient. Every morning, we follow the schedule of exercise, personal study,breakfast, and companionship study “to the T“. We get up on time, and we leave on time. We plan every night, and we have weekly planning every Friday. We don't start anything late.We don't stay in bed until 6:31;we are up and out of bed by 6:30. We make sure that we study for at least one hour, nothing less. As we obey the morning schedule, and adhere to the other rules, we are open to the revelation and inspiration that the Lord has promised to give us,
thereby allowing us to fulfill the purposes of God in bringing his children, our brothers and sisters, to Him.
The third thing that I learned (and you'll like this one, mom) is the
importance of having a “positive mental attitude“. As I have tried my hardest to look on the bright side of things, I have been able to avoid anger and contention. Some of the drivers here are crazy, but I simply smile and say, "Maybe they're having a bad day." As I try to think about how I can improve myself and do better, I am able to have faith and confidence in myself so that the Lord can use me. It helps me to enjoy the time that I am out here. I wish that I could have learned this before I got out here. I wish I had listened to you Mom when you kept telling me to be happy. I'm sorry for not listening.
March 18th
Wow.. Brice is 7 and Cian is 5....... I'm getting old. Oh man! I'm gonna miss Daniel's baptism this year, and Brice's baptism next year. Darn.
Thanks for sending Dale's address. He is going to Mexico City, I'm pretty excited for him. Dale is a quiet example of kindness and obedience. Luckily, missionaries are allowed to e-mail each other. Can you get Stefanie's address too?
I’m glad you are taking the summer off Mom. Speaking of having summer off, did I tell you how hot it gets here in the summer? 110 degrees on a normal day. I'm hoping Pres. C. ships me off to Elko (the northern most part) for the summer. Of course, knowing how things sometime work, he might send me further south. Well, what's life without a little fun eh? Gotta keep a PMA (positive mental attitude). Pres Christensen told me that if I decide at the beginning of each day to be happy, that will help me out a lot, and it has.)
This last is an email from one of my MTC teachers that I thought you’d like:
“SABAHH IL-HEER Elderes y Hermanas (good morning in Arabic)
One thing that has pressed my mind the most this week (DC 128.1) is the question, what are we saving people from?
We are saving them from Babylon (or the world).
Here are some facts about the world:
Of the 6 billion people who live in the world right now, 4.5 billion live below the poverty line
25 million people are displaced by wars
50% of the world's countries are ruled by dictators
There are 300,000 child soldiers in the world
27 million people in the world are enslaved
854 million people are going hungry
1 million child will be sold into the sex trade this year.
Pornography is the largest hit on the internet
These are some things that we are saving people from. The fight is real. Our obedience to the covenants in the temple is what will set us apart as disciples of Jesus Christ and endow us with His power to represent Him in cleansing each other of sin and evil. As I have said before, moral men cannot not save this world; only a God can, and that God is Jesus Christ.
I sat in a class last Thursday while a visiting professor to the college said one offensive thing after another. One could see on their faces that the students were uncomfortable and offended. Yet, no one, not even the teacher said a thing. I finally raised my hand, countered his comments and he stopped. We spoke very fondly of each other after class. My point is, we must stand. Too many disciples stand by and merely squint at evil without taking a stand and combating it. STAND.
We are to represent Christ in fighting evil and sin. Roll up your sleeves and get in the trenches and co-servants in the faith. Have a good week.
Abrazo,
Hno Coles”
March 25th
First of all, Mom, I know you’re really busy from the costuming for Music Man so it’s okay that you didn’t get the email to me in time. I'll give you a quick update on what's been going on.
We aren't having any baptisms this transfer, and three people dropped getting baptized. I told dad about one named Luis. It's been pretty rough this transfer. Sometimes I wonder if I'm really helping out in the effort here…sometimes it seems like I'm more of a watcher than a doer.
I’ve lost a little weight, and hope to continue losing some more. I've been eating much healthier; I've been snacking on grapes and carrots and bananas. I've also eaten everything that the members feed us for dinner. The only thing I have declined was papaya, but I DID try it.
I'm still in the Paradise area in Las Vegas. I haven't transferred out since I arrived. Things went bad and good this past week. Good because we got a lot of work done. We got 16 lessons with member present (LTM) and 38 other lessons. We got one of our investigators to start coming to church and we finished teaching him all the lessons. His name is Salamon. He has a baptismal date for the 27th of April.
Now for the bad news. We got a new companionship in our district so now we have six instead of 4. That’s not a problem, but because they moved in, they had to rezone our area and we lost ALL of the investigators we had, including Salamon. We got to keep a couple but 98% now belong to the other Elders. Something our zone leader said gave me hope. He said that the "Lord has people prepared to hear the gospel in this area" and that made me think: our area isn't new, it's just smaller. We never focused much in this area because it was farther away than the other parts. Maybe this is the Lord's way of saying, "You've done enough in this part. Let the other elders take care of the rest. I want YOU to work in this area that you've been ignoring. I've got some people prepared. So go and find them my son."
My Spanish is coming along better. My companion, Elder Gonzalez, speaks Spanish much clearer than my first companion, so I'm understanding a little better. When I return, I will gladly start accompanying you to work to help you out Dad. Maybe I could get a part time job as a translator. I know my old boss would want me back too because he has several Hispanics working for him.
I love you very much and miss you too. Luckily, Pres Christensen has been a great help to me in helping me overcome my trials. He and his wife remind me a lot of you, because they’ve told me some things that you've both told me before. BUT, they don't replace either of you.
April 8th
I'm pretty jealous that the family there gets to see “The Music Man“. I also think its great that they have started community theater in Enterprise. I’m sure Jotty's doing great in it, and that mom is doing a good job too. She’s always done a marvelous job with sewing and costuming. 9,000 yards of thread? Wow....... have you done more costuming before or is this your record? Hope someone did a video of it. I have been EXTREMELY jealous that you guys get to do this, but I'm happy that you’re having fun.
I got to see all the sessions of General Conference. It was amazing, but taking notes made it even better. Elder Holland's, and Elder Oaks's talks and Elder Bednar's talk on helping your children recognize spiritual warnings were the ones that stuck out to me. I like how Pres. Monson talked about the hope we have for the resurrection. All in all, it was a great conference. I enjoy conference and understand more since I came out on my mission.
I noticed also that a lot of it was focused on family and the duties of the parents. While I thought that that was nice, I noticed that the conference also focused on missionary work. In a different way, we missionaries are the "parents" of our investigators. It is our responsibility to nurture them in the Good Word of God. It is our responsibility to tell them that we KNOW that the Gospel is true. It is our responsibility to give them blessings when they need it. They are infants in the Gospel, and without our help (and the help of members--they play a key role) our investigators will be swallowed up in the evils of contemporary society and spiritually die. Indeed, this conference was a conference for the parents; parents of children and investigators.
Regarding your comment about the New Testament; the New Testament is hard to understand because the culture is extremely different. Many comparisons were made with the culture and customs of ancient Jerusalem. Institute and seminary manuals are a God-send for understanding it better. The apostle Paul’s teachings are some of the best.
It’s interesting how children tend to say things that are either really funny, or really profound. Not too long ago, my companion and I were at a family home evening with a new member. She held up a picture of Christ and the little children and asked "Why are the little children looking at Jesus?" Her 6 year old son said "‘Cuz they want Him to make them better." I immediately thought, wow.......why do we look at Jesus? Are we even looking at Him? Are we anxiously studying his words and looking towards His example? We look to Jesus so that He can make us better, so that He can comfort us, and so that He can teach us how to be happy in this life, how to be like Him.
April 15th
I’m kind of bummed this week. I think I told you that they split our area. The area we have is middle class, and there aren't too many Hispanics here. We went knocking doors yesterday for two hours, and not one new investigator. I'm not enjoying it too much. The joy I feel is when we actually get results, and we aren't getting any. When I get back at our apartment, I feel tired and stressed. I'm not sure what we are doing wrong…we're working our butts off, but to no avail. Not that I am going to stop working, but I'm not sure of what else we need to do. I'm sorry for being a little depressed. I'm trying to be positive, but when we review at the end of the day, sometimes it 's really hard to stay positive. Thanks for reminding me about P.M.A. Sorry for complaining. Thanks for continuing to love and support me. Despite the hardships, I'm glad that I'm here serving the Lord.
My health is going good. I'm sleeping better now, and I'm eating a LOT healthier (wish I had done that back home). I’ve come up with some rules I'm going to follow to keep my eating habits in check. We are riding bikes, so I'm getting my exercise in as well.
Speaking of the kids that go wayward, I'm glad that you were a mother who taught us to obey the gospel, and that you did what you could, even if it DID tick us off, to keep us in the right path. I wouldn't have come on a mission if you hadn't taught me like you did. Thank you again for being a wicked awesome mother!
April 22nd
I don't have much time on this timed computer; but know that things are going much better! In the past week, we've been able to renew our resolve and we've found more investigators to teach. We had interviews with Pres. C, and I told him that I think I had started to focus on numbers instead of people. I think that is why we weren't able to do so well. But no matter, that's in the past. We have found some people to teach, and we are going to work.
In response to your question about teaching investigators: if they want to gain a testimony about the restoration and about Joseph Smith, they need to PRAY. They need to be taught what the fruits of the spirit are. There's a scripture in John that says that if we REALLY want to know if the doctrine and laws are of God, we need to DO them. I.E.: If I want to gain a testimony about the word of wisdom, I have to pray AND follow it. My testimony comes from my actions. I know that all these things are true because I have read and done them and seen the blessings that come from it. As you and Mom have strived to live the Gospel, I have seen how it has blessed you and the family. Prayer is just one of the actions we can do to know if this Gospel is true.
Oh yes, HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOTTY!
While I do miss you all, I know that this is where I need to be. This IS the best thing I can do for myself, my family, and the people here. Please pray that I will be able to teach and touch the heart, and that I won't be a burden to my companion and district. I love you!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Yes... I am journaling a lot. I’ve probably missed 7 days since I've left in November. It really does help me find a sense of identity. I can also track my progress too. If you ever hear someone (mainly teenagers) say that they are "trying to find myself" tell them to keep a journal… it helps.
I am in the same area, same apartment. My new companion, Elder Gonzalez, is awesome. I especially like how he tries to raise the bar every now and then. The other two baptisms, Carlos and Carlos Jr.,had to be postponed until March 27th. Do you remember Daniel (the husband of Gloria)? We set him for baptism on the 20th. I don't know what was different this time, but after a year of not listening, he decided to take the lessons. We're also planning on setting three others. Salamon (whom we found on the street) and Ramon and Rhonda. Ramon had been contacted in Boulder City 5years ago. Rhonda (who doesn't speak Spanish) studies religion. They have a baby boy (HUGE baby boy, not even two years old and he's bigger than Cian) named Elisha. She was barren, but through God, they were able to have Elisha. All three of those we’re teaching ask very good questions, and have a real interest to learn more. I just hope we can get them to make the changes.
Don't worry Dad, I'm getting fed quite well. The Hispanic culture has mastered the culinary arts!
I've heard about the earthquakes too. Revelations talks about terrible earthquakes in diverse places. It's starting to seem like more and more of the signs of the times are coming true.
Regarding that changed traffic sign you missed Dad…just another reminder that we ALWAYS have to pay attention: Kind of like in the gospel. We can't afford to miss a ‘raising of the bar’ in the standards, or let up just a little bit because we’ll allow Satan to pull the wool over our eyes.
I love you all and Mom, I miss our looooong midnight chats. You'd be happy to know though, that Pres. and Sis Christensen treat us like their own children, so I'm not parentless right now. Our zone conference on Tuesday was AMAZING!!! The topic was on revelation. You'd love Pres Christensen…he's extremely spiritual.
March 11th
It finally dawned on me that I've been gone for 4 months. I can still remember the day I entered the MTC as if it was yesterday. It's really bizarre how some days kind of drag, but the weeks seem to zoom by. It’s like time is going at two different speeds at the same time.
We use both car and bike. Surprisingly, my knee hasn't bothered me one bit while I've been bike riding. Either the surgery worked after all or it is one more way I have been blessed.
We had interviews with President Christensen yesterday, and he asked that I e-mail you something that we talked about: Yesterday, he asked me "What are three things you've learned on your mission so far?" I thought for about a minute. The first one I said was Sacrifice. I love in the hymn, "Praise to the Man" where it says that "sacrifice brings forth the blessing of heaven." I've found this to be true. Ever since I left, things seem to have been going good for all of the family and even for some of my friends. Mom, you were able to afford to fix your hearing aids. Amry took a stand for the standards of the Church. JaNae lost her job but that allowed her to take time to spend with the kids, and more time to study for her classes. Jotty’s friend has listened to gospel discussions and things have even been looking up for Diane--she's started family home evening in her house, her Dad let her apply to BYU, and he's let her start going to church. The more I sacrifice, the more blessings my loved ones have received.
The second thing I said was “obedience with exactness“. I've learned that in order for us to successfully serve the Lord, we need to be worthy to receive inspiration and revelation from the Spirit. In order to receive help from the Spirit, we need to be obedient. Every morning, we follow the schedule of exercise, personal study,breakfast, and companionship study “to the T“. We get up on time, and we leave on time. We plan every night, and we have weekly planning every Friday. We don't start anything late.We don't stay in bed until 6:31;we are up and out of bed by 6:30. We make sure that we study for at least one hour, nothing less. As we obey the morning schedule, and adhere to the other rules, we are open to the revelation and inspiration that the Lord has promised to give us,
thereby allowing us to fulfill the purposes of God in bringing his children, our brothers and sisters, to Him.
The third thing that I learned (and you'll like this one, mom) is the
importance of having a “positive mental attitude“. As I have tried my hardest to look on the bright side of things, I have been able to avoid anger and contention. Some of the drivers here are crazy, but I simply smile and say, "Maybe they're having a bad day." As I try to think about how I can improve myself and do better, I am able to have faith and confidence in myself so that the Lord can use me. It helps me to enjoy the time that I am out here. I wish that I could have learned this before I got out here. I wish I had listened to you Mom when you kept telling me to be happy. I'm sorry for not listening.
March 18th
Wow.. Brice is 7 and Cian is 5....... I'm getting old. Oh man! I'm gonna miss Daniel's baptism this year, and Brice's baptism next year. Darn.
Thanks for sending Dale's address. He is going to Mexico City, I'm pretty excited for him. Dale is a quiet example of kindness and obedience. Luckily, missionaries are allowed to e-mail each other. Can you get Stefanie's address too?
I’m glad you are taking the summer off Mom. Speaking of having summer off, did I tell you how hot it gets here in the summer? 110 degrees on a normal day. I'm hoping Pres. C. ships me off to Elko (the northern most part) for the summer. Of course, knowing how things sometime work, he might send me further south. Well, what's life without a little fun eh? Gotta keep a PMA (positive mental attitude). Pres Christensen told me that if I decide at the beginning of each day to be happy, that will help me out a lot, and it has.)
This last is an email from one of my MTC teachers that I thought you’d like:
“SABAHH IL-HEER Elderes y Hermanas (good morning in Arabic)
One thing that has pressed my mind the most this week (DC 128.1) is the question, what are we saving people from?
We are saving them from Babylon (or the world).
Here are some facts about the world:
Of the 6 billion people who live in the world right now, 4.5 billion live below the poverty line
25 million people are displaced by wars
50% of the world's countries are ruled by dictators
There are 300,000 child soldiers in the world
27 million people in the world are enslaved
854 million people are going hungry
1 million child will be sold into the sex trade this year.
Pornography is the largest hit on the internet
These are some things that we are saving people from. The fight is real. Our obedience to the covenants in the temple is what will set us apart as disciples of Jesus Christ and endow us with His power to represent Him in cleansing each other of sin and evil. As I have said before, moral men cannot not save this world; only a God can, and that God is Jesus Christ.
I sat in a class last Thursday while a visiting professor to the college said one offensive thing after another. One could see on their faces that the students were uncomfortable and offended. Yet, no one, not even the teacher said a thing. I finally raised my hand, countered his comments and he stopped. We spoke very fondly of each other after class. My point is, we must stand. Too many disciples stand by and merely squint at evil without taking a stand and combating it. STAND.
We are to represent Christ in fighting evil and sin. Roll up your sleeves and get in the trenches and co-servants in the faith. Have a good week.
Abrazo,
Hno Coles”
March 25th
First of all, Mom, I know you’re really busy from the costuming for Music Man so it’s okay that you didn’t get the email to me in time. I'll give you a quick update on what's been going on.
We aren't having any baptisms this transfer, and three people dropped getting baptized. I told dad about one named Luis. It's been pretty rough this transfer. Sometimes I wonder if I'm really helping out in the effort here…sometimes it seems like I'm more of a watcher than a doer.
I’ve lost a little weight, and hope to continue losing some more. I've been eating much healthier; I've been snacking on grapes and carrots and bananas. I've also eaten everything that the members feed us for dinner. The only thing I have declined was papaya, but I DID try it.
I'm still in the Paradise area in Las Vegas. I haven't transferred out since I arrived. Things went bad and good this past week. Good because we got a lot of work done. We got 16 lessons with member present (LTM) and 38 other lessons. We got one of our investigators to start coming to church and we finished teaching him all the lessons. His name is Salamon. He has a baptismal date for the 27th of April.
Now for the bad news. We got a new companionship in our district so now we have six instead of 4. That’s not a problem, but because they moved in, they had to rezone our area and we lost ALL of the investigators we had, including Salamon. We got to keep a couple but 98% now belong to the other Elders. Something our zone leader said gave me hope. He said that the "Lord has people prepared to hear the gospel in this area" and that made me think: our area isn't new, it's just smaller. We never focused much in this area because it was farther away than the other parts. Maybe this is the Lord's way of saying, "You've done enough in this part. Let the other elders take care of the rest. I want YOU to work in this area that you've been ignoring. I've got some people prepared. So go and find them my son."
My Spanish is coming along better. My companion, Elder Gonzalez, speaks Spanish much clearer than my first companion, so I'm understanding a little better. When I return, I will gladly start accompanying you to work to help you out Dad. Maybe I could get a part time job as a translator. I know my old boss would want me back too because he has several Hispanics working for him.
I love you very much and miss you too. Luckily, Pres Christensen has been a great help to me in helping me overcome my trials. He and his wife remind me a lot of you, because they’ve told me some things that you've both told me before. BUT, they don't replace either of you.
April 8th
I'm pretty jealous that the family there gets to see “The Music Man“. I also think its great that they have started community theater in Enterprise. I’m sure Jotty's doing great in it, and that mom is doing a good job too. She’s always done a marvelous job with sewing and costuming. 9,000 yards of thread? Wow....... have you done more costuming before or is this your record? Hope someone did a video of it. I have been EXTREMELY jealous that you guys get to do this, but I'm happy that you’re having fun.
I got to see all the sessions of General Conference. It was amazing, but taking notes made it even better. Elder Holland's, and Elder Oaks's talks and Elder Bednar's talk on helping your children recognize spiritual warnings were the ones that stuck out to me. I like how Pres. Monson talked about the hope we have for the resurrection. All in all, it was a great conference. I enjoy conference and understand more since I came out on my mission.
I noticed also that a lot of it was focused on family and the duties of the parents. While I thought that that was nice, I noticed that the conference also focused on missionary work. In a different way, we missionaries are the "parents" of our investigators. It is our responsibility to nurture them in the Good Word of God. It is our responsibility to tell them that we KNOW that the Gospel is true. It is our responsibility to give them blessings when they need it. They are infants in the Gospel, and without our help (and the help of members--they play a key role) our investigators will be swallowed up in the evils of contemporary society and spiritually die. Indeed, this conference was a conference for the parents; parents of children and investigators.
Regarding your comment about the New Testament; the New Testament is hard to understand because the culture is extremely different. Many comparisons were made with the culture and customs of ancient Jerusalem. Institute and seminary manuals are a God-send for understanding it better. The apostle Paul’s teachings are some of the best.
It’s interesting how children tend to say things that are either really funny, or really profound. Not too long ago, my companion and I were at a family home evening with a new member. She held up a picture of Christ and the little children and asked "Why are the little children looking at Jesus?" Her 6 year old son said "‘Cuz they want Him to make them better." I immediately thought, wow.......why do we look at Jesus? Are we even looking at Him? Are we anxiously studying his words and looking towards His example? We look to Jesus so that He can make us better, so that He can comfort us, and so that He can teach us how to be happy in this life, how to be like Him.
April 15th
I’m kind of bummed this week. I think I told you that they split our area. The area we have is middle class, and there aren't too many Hispanics here. We went knocking doors yesterday for two hours, and not one new investigator. I'm not enjoying it too much. The joy I feel is when we actually get results, and we aren't getting any. When I get back at our apartment, I feel tired and stressed. I'm not sure what we are doing wrong…we're working our butts off, but to no avail. Not that I am going to stop working, but I'm not sure of what else we need to do. I'm sorry for being a little depressed. I'm trying to be positive, but when we review at the end of the day, sometimes it 's really hard to stay positive. Thanks for reminding me about P.M.A. Sorry for complaining. Thanks for continuing to love and support me. Despite the hardships, I'm glad that I'm here serving the Lord.
My health is going good. I'm sleeping better now, and I'm eating a LOT healthier (wish I had done that back home). I’ve come up with some rules I'm going to follow to keep my eating habits in check. We are riding bikes, so I'm getting my exercise in as well.
Speaking of the kids that go wayward, I'm glad that you were a mother who taught us to obey the gospel, and that you did what you could, even if it DID tick us off, to keep us in the right path. I wouldn't have come on a mission if you hadn't taught me like you did. Thank you again for being a wicked awesome mother!
April 22nd
I don't have much time on this timed computer; but know that things are going much better! In the past week, we've been able to renew our resolve and we've found more investigators to teach. We had interviews with Pres. C, and I told him that I think I had started to focus on numbers instead of people. I think that is why we weren't able to do so well. But no matter, that's in the past. We have found some people to teach, and we are going to work.
In response to your question about teaching investigators: if they want to gain a testimony about the restoration and about Joseph Smith, they need to PRAY. They need to be taught what the fruits of the spirit are. There's a scripture in John that says that if we REALLY want to know if the doctrine and laws are of God, we need to DO them. I.E.: If I want to gain a testimony about the word of wisdom, I have to pray AND follow it. My testimony comes from my actions. I know that all these things are true because I have read and done them and seen the blessings that come from it. As you and Mom have strived to live the Gospel, I have seen how it has blessed you and the family. Prayer is just one of the actions we can do to know if this Gospel is true.
Oh yes, HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOTTY!
While I do miss you all, I know that this is where I need to be. This IS the best thing I can do for myself, my family, and the people here. Please pray that I will be able to teach and touch the heart, and that I won't be a burden to my companion and district. I love you!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Attack and Analogy
Dear Family,
Yes, I got the package. I introduced two Elders to the boiled peanuts and they both like them.
Thanks for supporting Jotty. He really IS changing. He's got a fantastic spirit and I don't think he's ever been this happy in his life. I'm glad he likes teaching with the Elders.
Enterprise ward had 4 convert baptisms in a month?...wow. I don't think that's ever
happened since I've been there. The missionaries there must be fearsome. Jotty says that he's becoming good friends with them.
Give Bro. Flowers my condolences if it's not too late. I didn't know his son Darell that well, but I definitely loved the Spirit he brought into the room.
Jotty told me about the Rifle Competition in Ohio. It seems like he had fun. I still wish we had gone to Daytona my senior year, but I think it's good that we didn't because I would've been so busy prepping that I would've ignored other things I needed to do. Maybe it was a blessing after all.
No, I don't print up the e-mails here. There's no time limit, so I can take time to read and think about what I want to say. I still try to stay on for only an hour-- maybe a little more. The rules say it's a guideline, not a limit.
Mom, I'm really glad that you're working on family history. I wondering though ... when you've gone so far back on both sides...will there be anything left for me to do? Maybe I'll marry a convert, then I'll work on hers. heh heh.
We're not supposed to get into politics as missionaries, but if you want to send some jokes, it'll be OK. I like the inspirational quotes you sent me.
Quick experience: Just yesterday, we were talking with a lady on the sidewalk. Out of nowhere, this other woman parks her car right next to us, gets out, and starts to "warn" the lady that we were talking to about the "evil, cultist Mormons." She went on for 15 minutes, yelling, cussing, insulting; she told me to shut up when I
asked if we could talk for just one minute,and she reared back to hit my companion when he tried to give the other woman(to whom we were initially talking)a card with our number on it. She claimed that we had a veil put over our eyes, and that we were anti-Christs. When she finished, she got in her car and drove off, still threatening to bring us down, continuing to yell at us while she drove off. Christ wasn't lying when he said that the "Spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil." She wasn't there to warn this lady, she was there to bring us down. But my companion and I rose above the attack, as we heeded to the spirit and decided to let her talk. We didn't argue, and we smiled at her and waved as she drove off. Because we did that, the Spirit of the Lord did not leave us, and in fact, gave us more strength for the rest of the day. We were filled with new resolve, because we knew that Satan noticed us, and he decided to pay special attention to us to discourage us. But if we
rely on the kind, peaceful, yet bold and powerful, Spirit of the Lord,all things are made possible.
Dad, I love the Archie Moore boxing analogy. I know that if we (missionaries) stay down and don't get back up, it's over. Period. No "extra lives" or "save and quit"; can't go back to our body and pick up our old loot like a video game. It's over. If I may, I'd like to add to the analogy...something I learned in the MTC: One of Satan's greatest tools (besides fear, pride, and pornography) is discouragement. Have you ever noticed what happens when a boxer finds an open wound on his opponent? He concentrates on that area, trying to make the wound bigger, until it gets to the point that the opponent can't focus because the pain is too great. Satan too, is looking for the cuts and scratches on our soul, and if he finds them, he's going to dig in and make it bigger. We cannot doubt ourselves. The Lord has called us to do "a great and marvelous work," and we can't do it if we don't have faith in ourselves. So we need to protect these scratches and let them heal.
Also, some people may think, "Oh...it's OK that I like to listen to this music with suggestive lyrics. I don't look at porn, I have high standards in dating, I don't talk dirty, I'm not gonna have sex until I'm married. I'm pretty good. This music is just a small thing. Maybe I'll change later." He's right. It is a small thing. But a small cut that Satan will find, and will attack until it's a gaping hole. No matter how small the cut is, Satan will find it and will bring us down if
we're not careful.
Oh yeah, thanks for the hot sauce you sent. I finished it up this morning, so now I'm using tapatio sauce. It's pretty popular out here...so is a type called Valentina's -- pretty good stuff if I do say so myself.
Thanks again for your love, support and prayers. I love you all very much and yes, I miss you, but it is wicked awesome out here!!!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Yes, I got the package. I introduced two Elders to the boiled peanuts and they both like them.
Thanks for supporting Jotty. He really IS changing. He's got a fantastic spirit and I don't think he's ever been this happy in his life. I'm glad he likes teaching with the Elders.
Enterprise ward had 4 convert baptisms in a month?...wow. I don't think that's ever
happened since I've been there. The missionaries there must be fearsome. Jotty says that he's becoming good friends with them.
Give Bro. Flowers my condolences if it's not too late. I didn't know his son Darell that well, but I definitely loved the Spirit he brought into the room.
Jotty told me about the Rifle Competition in Ohio. It seems like he had fun. I still wish we had gone to Daytona my senior year, but I think it's good that we didn't because I would've been so busy prepping that I would've ignored other things I needed to do. Maybe it was a blessing after all.
No, I don't print up the e-mails here. There's no time limit, so I can take time to read and think about what I want to say. I still try to stay on for only an hour-- maybe a little more. The rules say it's a guideline, not a limit.
Mom, I'm really glad that you're working on family history. I wondering though ... when you've gone so far back on both sides...will there be anything left for me to do? Maybe I'll marry a convert, then I'll work on hers. heh heh.
We're not supposed to get into politics as missionaries, but if you want to send some jokes, it'll be OK. I like the inspirational quotes you sent me.
Quick experience: Just yesterday, we were talking with a lady on the sidewalk. Out of nowhere, this other woman parks her car right next to us, gets out, and starts to "warn" the lady that we were talking to about the "evil, cultist Mormons." She went on for 15 minutes, yelling, cussing, insulting; she told me to shut up when I
asked if we could talk for just one minute,and she reared back to hit my companion when he tried to give the other woman(to whom we were initially talking)a card with our number on it. She claimed that we had a veil put over our eyes, and that we were anti-Christs. When she finished, she got in her car and drove off, still threatening to bring us down, continuing to yell at us while she drove off. Christ wasn't lying when he said that the "Spirit of contention is not of me, but is of the devil." She wasn't there to warn this lady, she was there to bring us down. But my companion and I rose above the attack, as we heeded to the spirit and decided to let her talk. We didn't argue, and we smiled at her and waved as she drove off. Because we did that, the Spirit of the Lord did not leave us, and in fact, gave us more strength for the rest of the day. We were filled with new resolve, because we knew that Satan noticed us, and he decided to pay special attention to us to discourage us. But if we
rely on the kind, peaceful, yet bold and powerful, Spirit of the Lord,all things are made possible.
Dad, I love the Archie Moore boxing analogy. I know that if we (missionaries) stay down and don't get back up, it's over. Period. No "extra lives" or "save and quit"; can't go back to our body and pick up our old loot like a video game. It's over. If I may, I'd like to add to the analogy...something I learned in the MTC: One of Satan's greatest tools (besides fear, pride, and pornography) is discouragement. Have you ever noticed what happens when a boxer finds an open wound on his opponent? He concentrates on that area, trying to make the wound bigger, until it gets to the point that the opponent can't focus because the pain is too great. Satan too, is looking for the cuts and scratches on our soul, and if he finds them, he's going to dig in and make it bigger. We cannot doubt ourselves. The Lord has called us to do "a great and marvelous work," and we can't do it if we don't have faith in ourselves. So we need to protect these scratches and let them heal.
Also, some people may think, "Oh...it's OK that I like to listen to this music with suggestive lyrics. I don't look at porn, I have high standards in dating, I don't talk dirty, I'm not gonna have sex until I'm married. I'm pretty good. This music is just a small thing. Maybe I'll change later." He's right. It is a small thing. But a small cut that Satan will find, and will attack until it's a gaping hole. No matter how small the cut is, Satan will find it and will bring us down if
we're not careful.
Oh yeah, thanks for the hot sauce you sent. I finished it up this morning, so now I'm using tapatio sauce. It's pretty popular out here...so is a type called Valentina's -- pretty good stuff if I do say so myself.
Thanks again for your love, support and prayers. I love you all very much and yes, I miss you, but it is wicked awesome out here!!!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Second transfer, new companion
Dear Mom and Dad,
Notice that my new e-mail account is miles.parker@myldsmail.net .The Church had to update the myldsmail site so my address changed.
Can you send my other journal? I finished my first one a week or two ago.
Dinners here are amazing. Everyone in the ward can
cook. I never knew that Mexican cuisine could be THIS good!
Weather here is pretty hot--the coldest its' gotten is in the 40s. I am in the desert though. They say in the summer, it easily hits 115 degrees. The cool thing is that the shade actually works. You CAN feel a difference as you walk into the shadows of walls, buildings, and the occasional tree. We had transfers this past Tuesday and Elder Couoh has gone back home to Mexico. My new companion is Elder Gonzalez. He is AMAZING! He's a convert of only two years, and his teaching and testimony are fantastic!
Well, I'm now starting my second transfer. I don't know if you heard, but we had our first baptism last Friday. We're working on two more. The problem isn't that they don't want to be baptized, the problem is that they want to be baptized this transfer. Let me fill you in on this mission. The Nevada Las Vegas mission is the highest baptizing mission in the US (next to Salt Lake) and is also in the top 90% in the world. You wanna know how we do it? LTMs (Lessons Taught with a Member present). This has been the key to our success. Last year, the NLV mission had 1100 baptisms. This is made possible through an increased focus on members present when teaching investigators. It is a good help to the investigators. Also, Preach My Gospel is a very good source. I would exhort you to use it. Start reading it as a family if you haven't yet. It's a fantastic guide to helping us understand the importance of doing missionary work, and also how to do it. Pres. Christensen is an inspired man and I can feel his Spirit strongly.
So here's my spiritual thought. Do you remember Cristina Mendoza--the one who lived with all sorts of people of bad influence? Well, we baptized her last week and she's doing fantastic. She's really happy in her new home, away from the bad influences. She's got a wonderful spirit, which actually brings me to my thought:
We went back to her old place to teach her friend who still lived there. I have to say, I did NOT feel good. When I entered the apartment, I got this awful feeling of bitterness, coldness, and anger. This goes to prove that people, when worthy, can become vessels for the Spirit. Even though the TV was always on,kids running around, and the grouchy old Cuban lady kept yelling every now and then;...when Cristina was in the house, there was a Spirit of hope, love, and peace that presided amidst the chaos.
That's why it's important to live right and be worthy. Not just for ourselves,but for the sake of our homes and families as well.
The reason why emails have been short(despite the whole hour that I have) is because I only have one hour to email all of you, and Pres. Christensen. The computer isn't timed, but I'm trying to be obedient...that's the key to having the spirit with you. I also know that you guys will be blessed if I am obedient as well.
I love you all very much. You are in my prayers.
Thank you for your love and support. Cuidate!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Notice that my new e-mail account is miles.parker@myldsmail.net .The Church had to update the myldsmail site so my address changed.
Can you send my other journal? I finished my first one a week or two ago.
Dinners here are amazing. Everyone in the ward can
cook. I never knew that Mexican cuisine could be THIS good!
Weather here is pretty hot--the coldest its' gotten is in the 40s. I am in the desert though. They say in the summer, it easily hits 115 degrees. The cool thing is that the shade actually works. You CAN feel a difference as you walk into the shadows of walls, buildings, and the occasional tree. We had transfers this past Tuesday and Elder Couoh has gone back home to Mexico. My new companion is Elder Gonzalez. He is AMAZING! He's a convert of only two years, and his teaching and testimony are fantastic!
Well, I'm now starting my second transfer. I don't know if you heard, but we had our first baptism last Friday. We're working on two more. The problem isn't that they don't want to be baptized, the problem is that they want to be baptized this transfer. Let me fill you in on this mission. The Nevada Las Vegas mission is the highest baptizing mission in the US (next to Salt Lake) and is also in the top 90% in the world. You wanna know how we do it? LTMs (Lessons Taught with a Member present). This has been the key to our success. Last year, the NLV mission had 1100 baptisms. This is made possible through an increased focus on members present when teaching investigators. It is a good help to the investigators. Also, Preach My Gospel is a very good source. I would exhort you to use it. Start reading it as a family if you haven't yet. It's a fantastic guide to helping us understand the importance of doing missionary work, and also how to do it. Pres. Christensen is an inspired man and I can feel his Spirit strongly.
So here's my spiritual thought. Do you remember Cristina Mendoza--the one who lived with all sorts of people of bad influence? Well, we baptized her last week and she's doing fantastic. She's really happy in her new home, away from the bad influences. She's got a wonderful spirit, which actually brings me to my thought:
We went back to her old place to teach her friend who still lived there. I have to say, I did NOT feel good. When I entered the apartment, I got this awful feeling of bitterness, coldness, and anger. This goes to prove that people, when worthy, can become vessels for the Spirit. Even though the TV was always on,kids running around, and the grouchy old Cuban lady kept yelling every now and then;...when Cristina was in the house, there was a Spirit of hope, love, and peace that presided amidst the chaos.
That's why it's important to live right and be worthy. Not just for ourselves,but for the sake of our homes and families as well.
The reason why emails have been short(despite the whole hour that I have) is because I only have one hour to email all of you, and Pres. Christensen. The computer isn't timed, but I'm trying to be obedient...that's the key to having the spirit with you. I also know that you guys will be blessed if I am obedient as well.
I love you all very much. You are in my prayers.
Thank you for your love and support. Cuidate!
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Don't have much time right now so I'll make this quick.
You got it on the first try Mom...Elder Foote and I both have Tourette's Syndrome.
I don't know if Elder Foote takes meds for his Tourette's--I never asked him. Yes, he was in the MTC with me.
I'm really sorry to hear about Bro. McClean. I think he did miss his wife--he changed a lot after her death. Hopefully he is happy right now.
A quick spiritual experience: We finished visiting a less active family and had a little extra time, so we needed something to do. I suggested that we go to the house of one of our investigators (who is set for baptism) to see how she is doing. When we got there, she told us how her friend has been very evil to her lately and had been calling her a "bruja" (witch). Then a man came in to talk to someone else that lives there (she doesn't own the house), and started talking very obscenely and grossly. She started to get upset and frustrated, which led later to tears. Elder Couoh started to comfort her and shared a scripture with her. After a little more talk and support, we left. Elder Couoh said that we were there at the right moment. She needed that support. If we weren't there, we wouldn't have known how bad her condition was at home. The people that live around her are bad influences, and she's trying to be faithful. Through combined efforts with the Bishop and Relief Society, we found her somewhere else to live. She has been an amazing example to me, and has showed an incredible amount of strength and faith. The gospel has the power to change people. I can't wait to have her accompany us as we teach lessons. She will touch the lives of others, just as she has touched mine.
There is much joy to be felt when you teach people about the gospel on your mission. When you teach a single mother who is abused by her ex-spouses about how Jesus Christ has forgiven her sins, and that He knows how to help her; when you teach a young man about how he will be able to see his dead father again; when you teach two little children about how their mother is ok, and that they will be able to live with her for eternity...these experiences have been most rewarding to me.
Dad, that is so cool that you get to meet with Elder Ballard! I love hearing from the general authorities.
I love you all very much. Take care.
Elder Parker
You got it on the first try Mom...Elder Foote and I both have Tourette's Syndrome.
I don't know if Elder Foote takes meds for his Tourette's--I never asked him. Yes, he was in the MTC with me.
I'm really sorry to hear about Bro. McClean. I think he did miss his wife--he changed a lot after her death. Hopefully he is happy right now.
A quick spiritual experience: We finished visiting a less active family and had a little extra time, so we needed something to do. I suggested that we go to the house of one of our investigators (who is set for baptism) to see how she is doing. When we got there, she told us how her friend has been very evil to her lately and had been calling her a "bruja" (witch). Then a man came in to talk to someone else that lives there (she doesn't own the house), and started talking very obscenely and grossly. She started to get upset and frustrated, which led later to tears. Elder Couoh started to comfort her and shared a scripture with her. After a little more talk and support, we left. Elder Couoh said that we were there at the right moment. She needed that support. If we weren't there, we wouldn't have known how bad her condition was at home. The people that live around her are bad influences, and she's trying to be faithful. Through combined efforts with the Bishop and Relief Society, we found her somewhere else to live. She has been an amazing example to me, and has showed an incredible amount of strength and faith. The gospel has the power to change people. I can't wait to have her accompany us as we teach lessons. She will touch the lives of others, just as she has touched mine.
There is much joy to be felt when you teach people about the gospel on your mission. When you teach a single mother who is abused by her ex-spouses about how Jesus Christ has forgiven her sins, and that He knows how to help her; when you teach a young man about how he will be able to see his dead father again; when you teach two little children about how their mother is ok, and that they will be able to live with her for eternity...these experiences have been most rewarding to me.
Dad, that is so cool that you get to meet with Elder Ballard! I love hearing from the general authorities.
I love you all very much. Take care.
Elder Parker
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Feb 4, 2010 and...Any guesses?
Aw...I'm surprised no one wants to guess what Miles and Elder Foote have in common-that makes them so unique. Go ahead...guess! (in the comment section at end of this post)
So, from Miles this last week...
Dear Mom (mother, mommy, mammy, matriarch, boss, queen, person, etc.)
This week has been quite eventful. Recently, we've been able to work with the members a lot more. We've also set two other people for baptism. This should make three baptisms for me and Elder Couoh by the end of this transfer.
I'm currently in Paradise Stake, Paradis Ward (Spanish)
I haven't sent anything home yet. I'm gonna go through some of my stuff and find out what I don't need. I'll probably be sending some shirts and a pair of jeans too (not the ones you sent for Christmas-those are nice). As for music, the EFY cd's are alright so I won't send those home.
I'm glad Jotty and you are involved in Music Man. I hope when I return that I can be involved in the community productions. I love to entertain and make people laugh.
I don't have a spiritual experience to share this week. I can't think of any right now, and I'm running out of time. However, our lesson with one of our investigators was fantastic. We felt the spirit very strongly. The gospel is changing her life; I can see it. She's more happy and she looks forward to our visits. One time, she took the bus to come to church, 'cuz she didn't have a ride...she wanted to come that badly. I love seeing this change in her life, and I hope she'll keep it.
Yeah, sometimes we have to eat on the run but not too often. I haven't been eating much either...I don't get that hungry (or bored) like I used to - no time to.
Yes, I got JaNae's e-mail. Tell her I'm sorry I didn't respond to her. Sometimes our time is so short we can only respond to parents. Can you give me her e-mail address so I can try to send her one every once in a while? Sometimes I forget how great of a relationship we have with each other. She's an awesome sister.
I love you too Mom. Take care and be safe please.
Con mucho amor
Elder Parker
So, from Miles this last week...
Dear Mom (mother, mommy, mammy, matriarch, boss, queen, person, etc.)
This week has been quite eventful. Recently, we've been able to work with the members a lot more. We've also set two other people for baptism. This should make three baptisms for me and Elder Couoh by the end of this transfer.
I'm currently in Paradise Stake, Paradis Ward (Spanish)
I haven't sent anything home yet. I'm gonna go through some of my stuff and find out what I don't need. I'll probably be sending some shirts and a pair of jeans too (not the ones you sent for Christmas-those are nice). As for music, the EFY cd's are alright so I won't send those home.
I'm glad Jotty and you are involved in Music Man. I hope when I return that I can be involved in the community productions. I love to entertain and make people laugh.
I don't have a spiritual experience to share this week. I can't think of any right now, and I'm running out of time. However, our lesson with one of our investigators was fantastic. We felt the spirit very strongly. The gospel is changing her life; I can see it. She's more happy and she looks forward to our visits. One time, she took the bus to come to church, 'cuz she didn't have a ride...she wanted to come that badly. I love seeing this change in her life, and I hope she'll keep it.
Yeah, sometimes we have to eat on the run but not too often. I haven't been eating much either...I don't get that hungry (or bored) like I used to - no time to.
Yes, I got JaNae's e-mail. Tell her I'm sorry I didn't respond to her. Sometimes our time is so short we can only respond to parents. Can you give me her e-mail address so I can try to send her one every once in a while? Sometimes I forget how great of a relationship we have with each other. She's an awesome sister.
I love you too Mom. Take care and be safe please.
Con mucho amor
Elder Parker
Sunday, January 31, 2010
January 28th 2010
Dear Family,
We went to the Las Vegas temple today. You would love it. There are a lot of gardens surrounding it, with many different kinds of flowers. I kept thinking, "Man, Mom and Diane would love this." I took some pictures of them too. The Las Vegas Celestial Room is BEAUTIFUL!!! They have these really tall windows on each side. We went in the morning, so when we went in, the sun was shining through on one side. It was so bright, I felt I was actually entering into the presence of the Lord. I love the Spirit of peace the presides in the temple. I don't have any worries when I'm there. Not one. I was able to think about those we are teaching for a little bit. Next time I go, I think I'll go with some specific questions in mind on how to help them. I'm sure the Lord will give me direction concerning those for whom I am responsible.
Anyway, I know the happy birthday was a little early, but we can only email on p-day, so I thought it'd be better early than late.
We had a ward conference last Sunday You know what surprised me? No food. Nope. It's just a southern tradition...I was kinda bummed out. It was a good conference nonetheless.
Yes, I finally got the packages, both of them. Thank you for all of it. Also, I did share my treat and the calendar is fantastic. It's good to see pictures of everyone...especially the page with my friends.
Jotty did not tell me that there were more people from the ward in the play. I think that's awesome...I'm so jealous of him. The "Music Man" sounds so much fun. Especially the part that Jotty has; I would love to be in a Barbershop Quartet.
Had a neat spiritual experience...earlier in the week we had exchanges. I was with Elder Bennet, another fantastic missionary (I'm hoping I get to serve with him before he leaves). We stopped by his apartment to get his planner, and on the way out, he grabbed three copies of the Book of Mormon. I didn't ask why, because we needed a couple of extras. Later on in the day, we went to go contact a referral that we received a day or two ago. When we went there, we had a fantastic lesson. It was two daughters, and one son (all teenagers). The son, Manuel, has a different father, who died some time ago. He doesn't have any friends, and is a really quiet guy. All three listened very closely and participated very well. We decided to give them all a Book of Mormon, and they committed to read the introduction and to pray specifically if the Book of Mormon and our message were true. They accepted. I only had one copy, but where did we get the other copies of the Book of Mormon? Lo and behold, there they were, the extra copies that Elder Bennet had grabbed at the last minute. He didn't know why he grabbed them. We didn't plan on visiting this family. They ended up being a "Plan E". Yet for some reason, he grabbed a couple extra copies. That's why listening and being in tune with the Spirit is important. I think that that was inspiration from the Holy Ghost kind of saying "You are gonna visit a family who needs this message, but you aren't gonna have enough copies of the Book of Mormon. You should grab some right now."
Everything is well with me. We have two people set for baptism and we're planning one more. We taught two families yeseterday and the Spirit was strong while we were teaching. I love this work!
Thank you for the love and support. I love reading every one's letters and e-mails. Take care Mom, and have fun with the play too.
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
We went to the Las Vegas temple today. You would love it. There are a lot of gardens surrounding it, with many different kinds of flowers. I kept thinking, "Man, Mom and Diane would love this." I took some pictures of them too. The Las Vegas Celestial Room is BEAUTIFUL!!! They have these really tall windows on each side. We went in the morning, so when we went in, the sun was shining through on one side. It was so bright, I felt I was actually entering into the presence of the Lord. I love the Spirit of peace the presides in the temple. I don't have any worries when I'm there. Not one. I was able to think about those we are teaching for a little bit. Next time I go, I think I'll go with some specific questions in mind on how to help them. I'm sure the Lord will give me direction concerning those for whom I am responsible.
Anyway, I know the happy birthday was a little early, but we can only email on p-day, so I thought it'd be better early than late.
We had a ward conference last Sunday You know what surprised me? No food. Nope. It's just a southern tradition...I was kinda bummed out. It was a good conference nonetheless.
Yes, I finally got the packages, both of them. Thank you for all of it. Also, I did share my treat and the calendar is fantastic. It's good to see pictures of everyone...especially the page with my friends.
Jotty did not tell me that there were more people from the ward in the play. I think that's awesome...I'm so jealous of him. The "Music Man" sounds so much fun. Especially the part that Jotty has; I would love to be in a Barbershop Quartet.
Had a neat spiritual experience...earlier in the week we had exchanges. I was with Elder Bennet, another fantastic missionary (I'm hoping I get to serve with him before he leaves). We stopped by his apartment to get his planner, and on the way out, he grabbed three copies of the Book of Mormon. I didn't ask why, because we needed a couple of extras. Later on in the day, we went to go contact a referral that we received a day or two ago. When we went there, we had a fantastic lesson. It was two daughters, and one son (all teenagers). The son, Manuel, has a different father, who died some time ago. He doesn't have any friends, and is a really quiet guy. All three listened very closely and participated very well. We decided to give them all a Book of Mormon, and they committed to read the introduction and to pray specifically if the Book of Mormon and our message were true. They accepted. I only had one copy, but where did we get the other copies of the Book of Mormon? Lo and behold, there they were, the extra copies that Elder Bennet had grabbed at the last minute. He didn't know why he grabbed them. We didn't plan on visiting this family. They ended up being a "Plan E". Yet for some reason, he grabbed a couple extra copies. That's why listening and being in tune with the Spirit is important. I think that that was inspiration from the Holy Ghost kind of saying "You are gonna visit a family who needs this message, but you aren't gonna have enough copies of the Book of Mormon. You should grab some right now."
Everything is well with me. We have two people set for baptism and we're planning one more. We taught two families yeseterday and the Spirit was strong while we were teaching. I love this work!
Thank you for the love and support. I love reading every one's letters and e-mails. Take care Mom, and have fun with the play too.
Con mucho amor,
Elder Parker
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