Family,
I cannot tell how amazing this week has been. Even though the Bagiuo season has started (Hurricane), now I am wet all the time, all is well. I took a lot of money out this week because when the first bagiuo hit it knocked out the power for a few days and there was no atm working near me, go figure! And our house flooded a bit but it's all well, our landlord is way nice and said she would take care of it, I think she came in and fixed our leaks however I'm not sure I'll have to ask. So, Elder Painagan was transferred this week. In all honestly I am happy, it was a bit of a challenge because he is a new member of the church and getting him to work was hard sometimes, however we had a great companionship, bonded well, and I tried to teach him all I could. Now I am officially a New Father. Don't worry I have no illegitamate child, but I am training now. Thats the mission lingo atleast I have my first Anak (Trainee) Elder Dioso, from Caguayan De Oro (A beautiful Island town in Mindanao that sits on 2 volcanoes). We've been together now for about 4 days now, and I absolutely love it and love him! He's way hardworking, humble, and easy to teach. I'm also begining to see the fruits of our labors here in Calaca. Besides the Branch being AMAZING! We have a ton of investigators we are teaching. Funny story, yesterday we had an appointment with a really interested family, it was raining hard but we still worked in the rain! haha it was fun we got totally soaked, my planner got destroyed however its okay! New transfer! new planner yeah! So the family we are teaching live in a Bukid (rice farm) and they are a little mahirap (poor), so I told them last time that we were going to watch a DVD so they agreed to borrow a DVD player from there neighbor. I found out they went to Manila to borrow a DVD player. As soon as I saw it on the floor I said...."uhhh, we will be right back! I promise!" and then my companion said "We are we goin?" And I said we are going for a jog! and my companion and I ran back to our apartment, I suppose it would be a funny sight to see a huge american in a necktie polo, and a bag jogging through the Municipial and Town square in the middle of a hurricane. So we ran back and forth in about 10 minutes, it's about 1/2 mile away, and as we get there we say! Now we're gonna watch this awesome movie! and they were like yeah! I'm so excited ! but....
earlier our Dog entered the house and chewed the CD drive so it's broken now.
I said to my companion "Did you hear that.....it's broken! and then we started laughing hard for about 5 minutes. Despite our defeat the lesson we taught about Joseph Smith and the Restoration of the Gospel was filled with the spirit of God, I couldn't have asked for a better lesson, they were quiet and I really felt the spirit as we taught them words of truth and eternal life. I love my new companion, and we are getting along great. He's speaks Visayan so we both aren't too amazing at tagalog, but I'm grateful now we have alot of time to study so hopefully I'll be a tagalog pro by the time our times over. I cannot believe it's been a year, I hit it this Thursday. and i've already arrange alittle party, haha Elder Centeno(my old companion from Sto. Tomas) and I are going on a split in Calaca, and we invited the Couple Missionaries Elder/Sister Messamer to work with us on Thursday, so it will be great and hopefully they will treat us for lunch when we tell them it's our year mark hey ho! In all seriousness, wow 1 year. It's too fast! I still don't know what I'm doing! I feel I'm just begining to learn how to teach and be a missionary and now I am half way done...what a shame! I'm begining to feel how Jacob did when he said "and also our lives passed away like as it were unto us a dream,"This time I've had here has been more than I could ask for, the growth and miraculous that I've experiences are beyond price or value. If I were sent home tomorrow, I would be extremely depressed but at the same time so grateful for the things I've learned here. I love my mission, the wonderful people here I am called to serve, all my companions (yeah even the one with Autism), I love my family, my mission president, the way the Lord uses me as a tool and works through me, and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I cannot explain the love and strength I receive from on high everyday. The good news about the Gospel and this life is that we are expected to fail. We are expected to feel inadequate, so that we may be humbled and call upon him who is so good. But I promise you, and I know this to be true, because I've experienced this in my own life, if we put our trust in him, do his will, admit to ourselves we aren't as great as we think we are, try our hardest each day, continually try and improve ourselves, it happens. God is so good! I know at times I sound like a broken record and perhaps you have no idea what I'm talking about, of course not! you'll have to figure it out on your own, you have to try it out for yourself, all the success i've had here, is because people were willing to change. As a missionary I help people recieve the Gospel by giving them a good example and teaching in a way that the spirit can be conveyed to them and they make the changes in their lives. I think we all have some changes to do, especially me! So family, heres my homework for you this week, take some time out of the week, sit down and think about all the affairs and relationships in your life, Think about what you can do to improve yourself to be better, to be a better son, mother, father,sister, brother, employee, etc. Think about if you've caused anyone pain in the last week, by an unkind deed, or something dumb that you said. Then make a goal, start small say I will stop doing this. and work your goal! If you want to quit cigerettes start small. 3 a day for 1 week, then 2, then 1. If you want to start going to the gym, say I will go to the gym 3 times a week and If I don't go 3 times a week, I don't get to use facebook this week. and when you fail, because I know you will...you start again. You get back up, repent, and start again. Let us continually try and be better. I read something from Aristotle while on my mission he said "Don't listen to men who tell you to think mortal thoughts, to do mortal things, but let us strain every nerve we have to put on immortality" This is what I've lived by for the last 7 months, trying to put on immortality, trying to be the best I possible can be, even when I'm tired, defeated, sad, 7,000miles away from home, and lonely. Don't think I am lecturing you or thinking that I know more, I know that you Mom and Dad have so much more experience and knowledge than me, but this is what I'm focusing on. I've been finding out how to really have a happy life. I've learned to be patient with myself, strive to be humble and teachable, and love the Lord. I cannot tell you how much I love you and care for you all, the prayers I've said for you are innumerable, my heart is still torn in pieces, but the Lord is filling the holes and keeping me busy over here. and thats my advice for you always, stay busy, work work work that is the secret! Start a new hobby, volunteer, fill your days with activities that are rewarding and give back, how I regret all the hours I spent wasting away in front of a TV and playing video games. I know this 2nd year will go by even faster, and before you know it will be in Mindoro at Puerto Galleria chilling on the beach. Just know that I am so grateful for you and love you all.
Your Son,
Elder Gonzalez
Monday, August 2, 2010
Monday, July 12, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
July 5 2010
Family,
Thanks for your email this week! This week has been crazy, so much travel and just doing things and at the same time difficult. Monday, we went to Nasugbu (the sisters area) and we hung out on the beach, I was really tempted to ride a horse but I decided to be obedient ;). Tuesday, I went on a split in Balayan (Elders area) with Elder Centenio my old companion back in Sto. Tomas, then we met up with the Elders in Batangas at night to sleep there. Wednesday, we had to travel to Lipa for Zone Conference, it was a great time. I really cannot explain how happy I was. I can't describe how much love and spirit was there, It was perhaps one of the happiest days of my life, truly a Zion mission we are all united and just love and care for eachother. And Presidents message on Sanctification and becoming better than we are really motivated me! Thursday- we had weekly planning so I finally got to work in my area on thursday and we only got 3/4 lessons that day. Friday, we had service in Nasugbu we helped the sisters moved because their apartment was a joke...haha literally it was made of Cawauyan (bamboo) and hallow blocks, Then Elder Parilla and I split so that I could interview their candidate for baptism. Saturday, my comp didnt show up in Lemery (area of the Zone Leaders) until about 10, so I had to go home shower and get ready, but when we arrived I said Elder lets go we have appointments! so we worked the morning with out showering...let's hope our investigators didn't mind ;). Sunday, we went on splits and worked with our investigators. We went to Correa family, we watched the Restoration DVD (movie about Joseph Smith) I bore strong testimony on how I knew it was true and that God brought forth the book of mormon for our time. However, they seemed to not even want to read it. I challenged them to read the book of mormon, they started giving us excuses as to why they couldn't do it. I challenged them to 5 minutes a day, they continued to give excuses I then said "1 verse a day" and then they told us how they believe whatever church they are in it's okay, as long as they pray and be good people, "religion doesn't save a person daw". I said exactly, your exactly right, but heres the thing, lets say everything I've said is true, and God really did bring forth this book, why would you not read it and pray about it? It's simple we aren't here to debate tell you you are wrong, we are here to invite you to read and pray about this book. I was a little defeated, because they were so kind to us, they had amazing questions. But when it came down to them having to keep their commitments, they backed out. That's not the first time and definately not the last time. A lot of our investigators, seem to not be keeping their commitments, and it's frustrating. I suppose it's comparable to raising children (don't worry I don't have any yet). But Mom you've always know what was good for me and what would truly make me happy, and when I didn't do the simple things like spend time with family, get good grades, have good friends it hurt you. You could see the end of all my choices, it's the same here. I've seen my life change and everything good that's come to me, and I want to share it...however some people are stuck in their daily routine, but that's life, thats the way salvation is, thats what God knew man would do when he gave them their free agency. Is it depressing? sometimes. You get really close to these people promise all these blessings, then you hear the same excuses over and over, and a lot of the time they just lie to you. But I am still hopeful, I'm so happy that I was able to teach and meet Nanay Bello (the 55 year old we baptized) because of here and the things that I hear are happening in Santo Tomas, keeps me excited. I hear of the converts that we made there are still active save 2, and the families of some of the part members that we taught are coming back to church. Elder Centenio baptized Nanay Bello's son and he is planning on serving a mission. Although it's depressing and defeating, the Lord continues to strengthen me. In other new with my companion, I've trying to stay hardworking, it's hard sometimes...somedays I don't feel, others days my companion doesn't. It irks me sometimes when I go on exchanges and I hear they only had 1 RCLA the whole day (Recent convert or less active lesson)--which are the easiest to get because they are members. But I have to be patient and long-suffering...haha thats the hardest for me...and yeah and trying to kill my pride, he keeps coming back ;).
I'm way excited to see the house, the pictures look incredible really! and Glad to hear that Ellen and Rob made it safely to Colorado.I actually forgot it was 4th of July, but I think we are planning on burning some neckties soon....because it's my YEAR MARK! haha :)
Mom, don't worry about your condition, I know that whatever happens the Lord will take care of you. I fasted for you earlier this week. However, we will see what happens. Just one thing I want you to know is that I love you and I thank God everyday for you guys and for this wonderful opportunity I have to serve. I know that he needs me here, and I know I need to be here. Please just keep that in your mind, that I love you and think of you continually.
I'm going to try and send pictures later, we are going to Fantasy World later today!
Faithfully,
Josh
Thanks for your email this week! This week has been crazy, so much travel and just doing things and at the same time difficult. Monday, we went to Nasugbu (the sisters area) and we hung out on the beach, I was really tempted to ride a horse but I decided to be obedient ;). Tuesday, I went on a split in Balayan (Elders area) with Elder Centenio my old companion back in Sto. Tomas, then we met up with the Elders in Batangas at night to sleep there. Wednesday, we had to travel to Lipa for Zone Conference, it was a great time. I really cannot explain how happy I was. I can't describe how much love and spirit was there, It was perhaps one of the happiest days of my life, truly a Zion mission we are all united and just love and care for eachother. And Presidents message on Sanctification and becoming better than we are really motivated me! Thursday- we had weekly planning so I finally got to work in my area on thursday and we only got 3/4 lessons that day. Friday, we had service in Nasugbu we helped the sisters moved because their apartment was a joke...haha literally it was made of Cawauyan (bamboo) and hallow blocks, Then Elder Parilla and I split so that I could interview their candidate for baptism. Saturday, my comp didnt show up in Lemery (area of the Zone Leaders) until about 10, so I had to go home shower and get ready, but when we arrived I said Elder lets go we have appointments! so we worked the morning with out showering...let's hope our investigators didn't mind ;). Sunday, we went on splits and worked with our investigators. We went to Correa family, we watched the Restoration DVD (movie about Joseph Smith) I bore strong testimony on how I knew it was true and that God brought forth the book of mormon for our time. However, they seemed to not even want to read it. I challenged them to read the book of mormon, they started giving us excuses as to why they couldn't do it. I challenged them to 5 minutes a day, they continued to give excuses I then said "1 verse a day" and then they told us how they believe whatever church they are in it's okay, as long as they pray and be good people, "religion doesn't save a person daw". I said exactly, your exactly right, but heres the thing, lets say everything I've said is true, and God really did bring forth this book, why would you not read it and pray about it? It's simple we aren't here to debate tell you you are wrong, we are here to invite you to read and pray about this book. I was a little defeated, because they were so kind to us, they had amazing questions. But when it came down to them having to keep their commitments, they backed out. That's not the first time and definately not the last time. A lot of our investigators, seem to not be keeping their commitments, and it's frustrating. I suppose it's comparable to raising children (don't worry I don't have any yet). But Mom you've always know what was good for me and what would truly make me happy, and when I didn't do the simple things like spend time with family, get good grades, have good friends it hurt you. You could see the end of all my choices, it's the same here. I've seen my life change and everything good that's come to me, and I want to share it...however some people are stuck in their daily routine, but that's life, thats the way salvation is, thats what God knew man would do when he gave them their free agency. Is it depressing? sometimes. You get really close to these people promise all these blessings, then you hear the same excuses over and over, and a lot of the time they just lie to you. But I am still hopeful, I'm so happy that I was able to teach and meet Nanay Bello (the 55 year old we baptized) because of here and the things that I hear are happening in Santo Tomas, keeps me excited. I hear of the converts that we made there are still active save 2, and the families of some of the part members that we taught are coming back to church. Elder Centenio baptized Nanay Bello's son and he is planning on serving a mission. Although it's depressing and defeating, the Lord continues to strengthen me. In other new with my companion, I've trying to stay hardworking, it's hard sometimes...somedays I don't feel, others days my companion doesn't. It irks me sometimes when I go on exchanges and I hear they only had 1 RCLA the whole day (Recent convert or less active lesson)--which are the easiest to get because they are members. But I have to be patient and long-suffering...haha thats the hardest for me...and yeah and trying to kill my pride, he keeps coming back ;).
I'm way excited to see the house, the pictures look incredible really! and Glad to hear that Ellen and Rob made it safely to Colorado.I actually forgot it was 4th of July, but I think we are planning on burning some neckties soon....because it's my YEAR MARK! haha :)
Mom, don't worry about your condition, I know that whatever happens the Lord will take care of you. I fasted for you earlier this week. However, we will see what happens. Just one thing I want you to know is that I love you and I thank God everyday for you guys and for this wonderful opportunity I have to serve. I know that he needs me here, and I know I need to be here. Please just keep that in your mind, that I love you and think of you continually.
I'm going to try and send pictures later, we are going to Fantasy World later today!
Faithfully,
Josh
Friday, July 2, 2010
June 29, 2010
Family,
Thanks for your letter. It's truly always good to hear about any updates from home, but I suppose when I come home I won't even recognize the place. Oh, well we get transferred enough I've yet really to get settled in and feel quite at home. As long as there is food, spacy room, and a comfy bed I'm happy. This week has been extremely good for me! We've been teaching a lot and I've been trying to work even harder. It gets really hard sometimes when missionaries get stuck in the groove of things. When all they had were lazy trainers and follow-ups they don't like to work too hard. But I guess that's all on me! I've had some really great experiences this week. I wish i could send some pictures home of Calaca it's amazing...but as always the internet shop has no card reader. We've been working and teaching a lot of families; Sinag, Aporbo,Correa,De Reyes, and Sale. Sinag is such an amazing family, they aren't married yet...that's the huge problem here no one wants to get married. They have a baby girl a young couple and we are working with them to get them married and to stop smoking so that they can qualify for baptism, it's frustrating at times...it seems that sometimes they have no DESIRE..That's the thing I want to talk about today....DESIRE. There is a saying in Tagalog :"Nasa Tao Ang Gawa, Nasa Diyos Ang Awa"--which means roughly haha 'God has the grace/mercy and people do the work' It's really interesting, these people who have been taught for about a year now, they believe in our message, they go to church, but they don't want to rid themselves of the vices and things in their lives that make them struggle. It's sad...we teach and encourage and bear testimony that these things aren't good for them and God is willing to help them change but then they go running back to it. It hurts to see the pain that's in there lives, but at the same time we are filled with so much joy when we see them overcome their weaknesses! Aporbo is a older lady and her whole family are members, but she's struggling with smoking. At sometimes I get really frustrated because they are pretty poor, but she continues to spend $ on cigerettes. We've set the goal only to smoke 3 ciggerettes a day then move on from there. I mean the Tindahan (store) is far away from her house, yet she still walks over there and buys them when she's passed three...but I still haven't lossed hope. Correa is such an awesome family! They live by a lot of members and have always seen americans walking around in neckties but didn't know why, so we decided to tract her. This lady is always waaaaay nice and feeds us all the time. We've taught her a few times, but when we taught her husband last Saturday it was amazing! At first he was kind of shy and just asked us basic questions, like "What things aren't you allowed to do, who is mormon? what do you believe, etc" After we answered a few questions, we asked if we could start the lesson. Elder Painagan and I decided to teach about Prophets up unto the apostacy (where we believe Christ church was taken from the earth, because people rejected the prophets/apostles and changed the original doctrines of the church) I couldn't deecribe how well the lesson went, everything seem to fall into place, the tagalog came smoothly the pages opened up to what we wanted to share, the questions and answers were perfect. The spirit was so strong, then when we left we set a return appointment and the father said. "Sige sa sabado sanay babalik kayo" or okay on saturday hopefully you will come back! Over all awesome lesson! The De Reyes family was a referral of the neighbor we were teaching, The neighber way nice, but her husband doesn't like when we come by the house, in fact he doesn't even speak to us haha....Lets hope it's just my Tagalog ;). Anways we went and taught them, same thing happened they just seemed to be super interested and nice! I'm so excited to teach and help them progress through the gospel I have alot of hope here in Calaca...the field truly is "white all ready to harvest!"
On another note, last wednesday was very trying. It was San Juan day! Or in other words the Catholic celebration of Juan Bautista's Saint Day. Haha did you think it was anything Holy? Nope infact it's everything that's not Christian haah. So this is what takes place on this day. Whoever you are, old or young, police, army, or office working or missionary ;), if you go out side people will soak you with beer and freezing cold water. All day, they even stop the buses and board them and throw water at you. You cannot leave the house or you will get wet. Well, that day we worked of course! We actually went to Balayan for lunch for the "Paradan Ng Lechon" Festival and to withdrawal $. Or basically this festival is everyones drunk throwing cold water, live music and a ton of Lechon baboy. Which is roasted pig, it was amazing and the first time I tried it! (This week I was close to trying dog, but decided not to....too bad) Anyways, we got soaked going there to the festival...which I didn't mind I thought it was fun I even got in on some of the soaking, when the people would run up to us while we were in the jeepneys I would take the bucket from their hands and pour it over their heads. The time I got upset was when it was about 4:00 we were teaching and everything seemed to calm down. (In Maynila the soaking stops early around 12-2pm but in Batangas it never stops daw) We were walking on the seashore going to an investigators house, then all of a sudden this drunk guy comes running up to use screaming with a bucket and stops right before us. I look at his pitcher and it's field with dirty, disgusting sea water, it was mud colored. My companion said "Huwag Na Po, hindi pwede kaming maging basa" or Please don't we aren't suppose to get wet. But sure enough, he looked at us then his water and threw it all over us, my shirt was covered in black spects and I was wet again. I kind of lost it with him, and in Tagalog chastised him. and his response and those around him was......
'Wag Kang Magalit totoy, ganoon talaga dito"
Don't get mad, boy (What you use for little kids) it's like that here.
Haha looking back I suppose it's funny, but I was pissed haha. Of well we went to a members house and deliver. Jason Lucernas' mission call to him. (Yeates knows him) He's going to the Cawauyan Mission! The videos hilarious I'll have to send it to you.
It was the most uneventful opening of a misson call every in a very silent voice he just says "Cawauyan?"
Other then getting a little sick from being wet all day! Life is good here in Calaca! :) This week we have Zone Con! I'm stoked, Good food and we get to go to Lipa!
Glad to hear Tiff made it back safe from China, Zach's magaling at football, jess is enjoying herself, and you guys are still working hard on the house...I guess this means
you won't be getting a farm for horses?
I love you all very much and miss you more than every,
Don't worry about me you can trust me out here...I'm safe
Faithfully your Son,
Josh
Thanks for your letter. It's truly always good to hear about any updates from home, but I suppose when I come home I won't even recognize the place. Oh, well we get transferred enough I've yet really to get settled in and feel quite at home. As long as there is food, spacy room, and a comfy bed I'm happy. This week has been extremely good for me! We've been teaching a lot and I've been trying to work even harder. It gets really hard sometimes when missionaries get stuck in the groove of things. When all they had were lazy trainers and follow-ups they don't like to work too hard. But I guess that's all on me! I've had some really great experiences this week. I wish i could send some pictures home of Calaca it's amazing...but as always the internet shop has no card reader. We've been working and teaching a lot of families; Sinag, Aporbo,Correa,De Reyes, and Sale. Sinag is such an amazing family, they aren't married yet...that's the huge problem here no one wants to get married. They have a baby girl a young couple and we are working with them to get them married and to stop smoking so that they can qualify for baptism, it's frustrating at times...it seems that sometimes they have no DESIRE..That's the thing I want to talk about today....DESIRE. There is a saying in Tagalog :"Nasa Tao Ang Gawa, Nasa Diyos Ang Awa"--which means roughly haha 'God has the grace/mercy and people do the work' It's really interesting, these people who have been taught for about a year now, they believe in our message, they go to church, but they don't want to rid themselves of the vices and things in their lives that make them struggle. It's sad...we teach and encourage and bear testimony that these things aren't good for them and God is willing to help them change but then they go running back to it. It hurts to see the pain that's in there lives, but at the same time we are filled with so much joy when we see them overcome their weaknesses! Aporbo is a older lady and her whole family are members, but she's struggling with smoking. At sometimes I get really frustrated because they are pretty poor, but she continues to spend $ on cigerettes. We've set the goal only to smoke 3 ciggerettes a day then move on from there. I mean the Tindahan (store) is far away from her house, yet she still walks over there and buys them when she's passed three...but I still haven't lossed hope. Correa is such an awesome family! They live by a lot of members and have always seen americans walking around in neckties but didn't know why, so we decided to tract her. This lady is always waaaaay nice and feeds us all the time. We've taught her a few times, but when we taught her husband last Saturday it was amazing! At first he was kind of shy and just asked us basic questions, like "What things aren't you allowed to do, who is mormon? what do you believe, etc" After we answered a few questions, we asked if we could start the lesson. Elder Painagan and I decided to teach about Prophets up unto the apostacy (where we believe Christ church was taken from the earth, because people rejected the prophets/apostles and changed the original doctrines of the church) I couldn't deecribe how well the lesson went, everything seem to fall into place, the tagalog came smoothly the pages opened up to what we wanted to share, the questions and answers were perfect. The spirit was so strong, then when we left we set a return appointment and the father said. "Sige sa sabado sanay babalik kayo" or okay on saturday hopefully you will come back! Over all awesome lesson! The De Reyes family was a referral of the neighbor we were teaching, The neighber way nice, but her husband doesn't like when we come by the house, in fact he doesn't even speak to us haha....Lets hope it's just my Tagalog ;). Anways we went and taught them, same thing happened they just seemed to be super interested and nice! I'm so excited to teach and help them progress through the gospel I have alot of hope here in Calaca...the field truly is "white all ready to harvest!"
On another note, last wednesday was very trying. It was San Juan day! Or in other words the Catholic celebration of Juan Bautista's Saint Day. Haha did you think it was anything Holy? Nope infact it's everything that's not Christian haah. So this is what takes place on this day. Whoever you are, old or young, police, army, or office working or missionary ;), if you go out side people will soak you with beer and freezing cold water. All day, they even stop the buses and board them and throw water at you. You cannot leave the house or you will get wet. Well, that day we worked of course! We actually went to Balayan for lunch for the "Paradan Ng Lechon" Festival and to withdrawal $. Or basically this festival is everyones drunk throwing cold water, live music and a ton of Lechon baboy. Which is roasted pig, it was amazing and the first time I tried it! (This week I was close to trying dog, but decided not to....too bad) Anyways, we got soaked going there to the festival...which I didn't mind I thought it was fun I even got in on some of the soaking, when the people would run up to us while we were in the jeepneys I would take the bucket from their hands and pour it over their heads. The time I got upset was when it was about 4:00 we were teaching and everything seemed to calm down. (In Maynila the soaking stops early around 12-2pm but in Batangas it never stops daw) We were walking on the seashore going to an investigators house, then all of a sudden this drunk guy comes running up to use screaming with a bucket and stops right before us. I look at his pitcher and it's field with dirty, disgusting sea water, it was mud colored. My companion said "Huwag Na Po, hindi pwede kaming maging basa" or Please don't we aren't suppose to get wet. But sure enough, he looked at us then his water and threw it all over us, my shirt was covered in black spects and I was wet again. I kind of lost it with him, and in Tagalog chastised him. and his response and those around him was......
'Wag Kang Magalit totoy, ganoon talaga dito"
Don't get mad, boy (What you use for little kids) it's like that here.
Haha looking back I suppose it's funny, but I was pissed haha. Of well we went to a members house and deliver. Jason Lucernas' mission call to him. (Yeates knows him) He's going to the Cawauyan Mission! The videos hilarious I'll have to send it to you.
It was the most uneventful opening of a misson call every in a very silent voice he just says "Cawauyan?"
Other then getting a little sick from being wet all day! Life is good here in Calaca! :) This week we have Zone Con! I'm stoked, Good food and we get to go to Lipa!
Glad to hear Tiff made it back safe from China, Zach's magaling at football, jess is enjoying herself, and you guys are still working hard on the house...I guess this means
you won't be getting a farm for horses?
I love you all very much and miss you more than every,
Don't worry about me you can trust me out here...I'm safe
Faithfully your Son,
Josh
Thursday, June 24, 2010
June 14, 2010
Minamahal Kong Pamilia,
I don't really know how to start this letter, I want to convey a lot of things in this, but I know a lot will slip my mind. Forgive me if I'm short in my other letters, a lot of things happen in one week, it's crazy really! So I suppose I'll start about my area and companion! So like I said last letter, I'm in Calaca Batangas (B*Town). This week has been really good for me, we've done a lot of tracting and visiting members and almost every members I've been to- when they hear I'm from Arizona- asks about Elder Yeatze. (Speaking of which could you have him email me or pass me his email). Its interesting to be following him haha. The members here couldn't be nicer! There are a ton of Returned Missioaries, and ones leaving soon.
For Yeatze: sa wakas si jason lucernas ay papasok ng mission niya, ngunit hindi pa siyang tumanggap ng call niya. Matagal daw ang paghihintay niya, baka pupunta siya sa states! Astig siya talaga, ang lahat ng mga member dito ay mababait. lagi kumakain kami kina noche! kahapon sa temple dedication viewing, nagtanong si Nanay Asia Fines, kung tandaan mo siya! Grabe ang kaniyang conversion story, gusto kong ipinasalamat sa iyo, para sa iyong kasipagan dito. binago mo ang maraming lives and 'di kailanman makakalimutan sila. Salamat sa payo na ibinigay mo sa akin bago pumasok ako ng mission. napakaligaya ako dito kahit mahirap-hirap. palagi naalala ko ang payo mo, "relax ka lang". But I must admit, nang bata pa ako sa mission, akala ko na ang pagsunod ay pinika mahalaga so siempre nakipagaway kami ng trainer ko. pero hindi ganoon ang mission. naniniwala pa ako na mahalaga siya talaga! ngayon masunorin pa ako o ibig sabihin sinisikap ko na gawin ang tama araw araw, ngunit hindi ko itama ang mga companions ko and ibang missionario, mali 'yon bahala sila ipapakita ko ang magandang halimbawa sa kanila at kung ayaw nila sige na! well, salamat talaga, pagkatapos ang mission ko, magkikita tayo...masarap talaga ang chicken adobo ko kasi---ingat palagi ha? pakiemail mo ako. nakadestino ka ba sa marinduque? anong mga areas mo? naging mission president ng cebu temple si President Mortimor
Elder Painagan and I are getting along well together, I love the kid and we are learning to work hard together. I realized that I've been pretty timid in tracting, or now I'm just being more bold. Instead of walking around and trying to find a good location where no ones drunk, they aren't washing there clothes, they aren't gambling, or fighting...Painagan has taught me to teach everyone, offer lessons, be confident...I'm trying to teach him when we get rejected don't get mad. But sometimes it's impossible. The other day we went tracting, We walked to this ladies house and I said we were missionaries and wanted to talk and get to know her, and share a message. To which she replied:
her: pasensya na kayo, christians kami: sorry guys were christians
me: Maganda po yen, kasi christian po kami din! siempre naniniwala kami kay christo!: Thats great! were christians to, of course we believe in christ!
her: marami akong ginagawa!: uhh I have a lot of things to do!
me: sige po Nay! Tutulungan namin Kayo! : thats okay Mom? we'll help you!
her: ayoko, talaga busy ako! : No thats okay, I'm really busy
Me: sige po Nay NExt time na long! : Okay...Mom? Next time!
her: 'wag na lang: No just don't come back
me: Sige! Ingat po kayo!--alright! Take care!
when we left, I looked at my companion, and I laughed. that's the first time anyones every said "Huwag Na Lang" to me. Or just told me not to come back, but it happens, religion is such a personal thing. One thing I really liked to say when were tracting is. We aren't here to force you to leave your religion, we're here to share a message about Jesus Christ, how he's called a prophet and restored his gospel on Earth. Your the one who will find out if it's true or not, its all up to you. I can't believe how much easier it is to teach out her opposed to the island. It's quite a relief! and I am definately a lot happier! I read my journal the other day on March 16th, it was a short entry it said "I'm having serious doubts about my mission, I can't stand marinduque, I don't know what to do" Now because I'm so happy, I can't even imagine I felt that way. Interesting how fast we forget our trials when the Lord blesses us and we're happy. The thing I'm focusing on the most this week is just being happy, always having a smile. Stop worrying about obedience and everying and live in this moment. If we only get 2 lessons today, whatever. I really love this place.
Last night, we say a really bad accident (isn't my first and will not be my last) The motorcycle driver was drunk, no helmet, and tried to over take and rammed into the side of another tricycle. The guy looked pathetic and sad. He had a huge swelling on his head, blood spewing from his mouth, his frail body was shaking, his feet were bleeding like you wouldn't believe, face was all scrape up and was unable to speak. For some reason or another haha, I thought of how I would feel, if this happened to one of you. I began to become really sad and then started thinking about home---that's never good haha. I realize how much I miss you all. I don't always mention it in my letters or say my true feelings, but all I can say is last night I felt real homesick. Which was quickly relieved because I know how important this work is. To take a quote from President Uchtdorfs talk 2 conferences ago "I'm doing a work and cannot come down" I can't give into temptation here, I can't get distracted, so If I seem short with any of you, or you feel I'm not telling you much, or think you dont' even know me anymore or I don't think of you. You have no idea how incredibly wrong you are. I realize I'm hitting 1 year since I've been home next month...that's crazy. Half way done....why does it have to be so fast? why do I feel that I'm just begining to understand the lords work and I'm half way done, theres so much more I want to do, so much more i want to learn and experience. I have no doubt in my mind the Lord is taking care of you and me here. I've seen so many miraclous here. I've seen his hand in this work. I know he lives, he has a plan, and he interacts with us. It's no coincidence, nothing is. I love you all so much and cannot wait to see you. When you pick me up we shall visit all my old areas....even marinduque. ;0
Ingat po lagi,
Elder Gonzalez
p.s. we watched the Cebu Temple Dedication! It was so awesome to see how faithful the saints our over there! and watch President Monson, try to play piano haha
I don't really know how to start this letter, I want to convey a lot of things in this, but I know a lot will slip my mind. Forgive me if I'm short in my other letters, a lot of things happen in one week, it's crazy really! So I suppose I'll start about my area and companion! So like I said last letter, I'm in Calaca Batangas (B*Town). This week has been really good for me, we've done a lot of tracting and visiting members and almost every members I've been to- when they hear I'm from Arizona- asks about Elder Yeatze. (Speaking of which could you have him email me or pass me his email). Its interesting to be following him haha. The members here couldn't be nicer! There are a ton of Returned Missioaries, and ones leaving soon.
For Yeatze: sa wakas si jason lucernas ay papasok ng mission niya, ngunit hindi pa siyang tumanggap ng call niya. Matagal daw ang paghihintay niya, baka pupunta siya sa states! Astig siya talaga, ang lahat ng mga member dito ay mababait. lagi kumakain kami kina noche! kahapon sa temple dedication viewing, nagtanong si Nanay Asia Fines, kung tandaan mo siya! Grabe ang kaniyang conversion story, gusto kong ipinasalamat sa iyo, para sa iyong kasipagan dito. binago mo ang maraming lives and 'di kailanman makakalimutan sila. Salamat sa payo na ibinigay mo sa akin bago pumasok ako ng mission. napakaligaya ako dito kahit mahirap-hirap. palagi naalala ko ang payo mo, "relax ka lang". But I must admit, nang bata pa ako sa mission, akala ko na ang pagsunod ay pinika mahalaga so siempre nakipagaway kami ng trainer ko. pero hindi ganoon ang mission. naniniwala pa ako na mahalaga siya talaga! ngayon masunorin pa ako o ibig sabihin sinisikap ko na gawin ang tama araw araw, ngunit hindi ko itama ang mga companions ko and ibang missionario, mali 'yon bahala sila ipapakita ko ang magandang halimbawa sa kanila at kung ayaw nila sige na! well, salamat talaga, pagkatapos ang mission ko, magkikita tayo...masarap talaga ang chicken adobo ko kasi---ingat palagi ha? pakiemail mo ako. nakadestino ka ba sa marinduque? anong mga areas mo? naging mission president ng cebu temple si President Mortimor
Elder Painagan and I are getting along well together, I love the kid and we are learning to work hard together. I realized that I've been pretty timid in tracting, or now I'm just being more bold. Instead of walking around and trying to find a good location where no ones drunk, they aren't washing there clothes, they aren't gambling, or fighting...Painagan has taught me to teach everyone, offer lessons, be confident...I'm trying to teach him when we get rejected don't get mad. But sometimes it's impossible. The other day we went tracting, We walked to this ladies house and I said we were missionaries and wanted to talk and get to know her, and share a message. To which she replied:
her: pasensya na kayo, christians kami: sorry guys were christians
me: Maganda po yen, kasi christian po kami din! siempre naniniwala kami kay christo!: Thats great! were christians to, of course we believe in christ!
her: marami akong ginagawa!: uhh I have a lot of things to do!
me: sige po Nay! Tutulungan namin Kayo! : thats okay Mom? we'll help you!
her: ayoko, talaga busy ako! : No thats okay, I'm really busy
Me: sige po Nay NExt time na long! : Okay...Mom? Next time!
her: 'wag na lang: No just don't come back
me: Sige! Ingat po kayo!--alright! Take care!
when we left, I looked at my companion, and I laughed. that's the first time anyones every said "Huwag Na Lang" to me. Or just told me not to come back, but it happens, religion is such a personal thing. One thing I really liked to say when were tracting is. We aren't here to force you to leave your religion, we're here to share a message about Jesus Christ, how he's called a prophet and restored his gospel on Earth. Your the one who will find out if it's true or not, its all up to you. I can't believe how much easier it is to teach out her opposed to the island. It's quite a relief! and I am definately a lot happier! I read my journal the other day on March 16th, it was a short entry it said "I'm having serious doubts about my mission, I can't stand marinduque, I don't know what to do" Now because I'm so happy, I can't even imagine I felt that way. Interesting how fast we forget our trials when the Lord blesses us and we're happy. The thing I'm focusing on the most this week is just being happy, always having a smile. Stop worrying about obedience and everying and live in this moment. If we only get 2 lessons today, whatever. I really love this place.
Last night, we say a really bad accident (isn't my first and will not be my last) The motorcycle driver was drunk, no helmet, and tried to over take and rammed into the side of another tricycle. The guy looked pathetic and sad. He had a huge swelling on his head, blood spewing from his mouth, his frail body was shaking, his feet were bleeding like you wouldn't believe, face was all scrape up and was unable to speak. For some reason or another haha, I thought of how I would feel, if this happened to one of you. I began to become really sad and then started thinking about home---that's never good haha. I realize how much I miss you all. I don't always mention it in my letters or say my true feelings, but all I can say is last night I felt real homesick. Which was quickly relieved because I know how important this work is. To take a quote from President Uchtdorfs talk 2 conferences ago "I'm doing a work and cannot come down" I can't give into temptation here, I can't get distracted, so If I seem short with any of you, or you feel I'm not telling you much, or think you dont' even know me anymore or I don't think of you. You have no idea how incredibly wrong you are. I realize I'm hitting 1 year since I've been home next month...that's crazy. Half way done....why does it have to be so fast? why do I feel that I'm just begining to understand the lords work and I'm half way done, theres so much more I want to do, so much more i want to learn and experience. I have no doubt in my mind the Lord is taking care of you and me here. I've seen so many miraclous here. I've seen his hand in this work. I know he lives, he has a plan, and he interacts with us. It's no coincidence, nothing is. I love you all so much and cannot wait to see you. When you pick me up we shall visit all my old areas....even marinduque. ;0
Ingat po lagi,
Elder Gonzalez
p.s. we watched the Cebu Temple Dedication! It was so awesome to see how faithful the saints our over there! and watch President Monson, try to play piano haha
June 9th, 2010
I want to really thank you Mom for the letter that you wrote, it really meant a lot to me. It spoke to me how I am feeling at this time, it's the same time problem that I've been facing my whole mission, the same probably any religious person faces, and what the ancients wrote and trifled with for years and years. That problem boils down to really, Knowing what you should do, and failing to do it. Or knowing God's commandments and just disobeying. Or knowing the mission rules and not following them. I was lucky enough to be assigned with Elder Scow in Marinduque he taught me a lot! He taught me the good side of being obedient. I recieved a letter from a Sister Missionary here that had some good knowledge in it. Basically said "A person can only be obedient to the mission rules for the love of the lord, mission president, investigators, etc. For any other reason is really just for pride. To say that you are obedient and hold it over someones head is just wrong and hypocritical. The reason I want to be obedient is of course I love the Lord, the Mission President, but I suppose mostly because I hate the feeling I get! You know what I'm talking about, that guilty-knowyourgoingwrong feeling. That presses itself upon you and makes you feel uncomfortable feeling. The feeling and thoughts you get that make you think...wait I gave all this away so that I could become this kind of missionary? I'm not confessing here that I have gone off the deep end. I still work hard and I follow the mission rules, however with my new zone I dont feel as comfortable as I did, and that's scary haha. I never thought I was weak to peer pressure, but theres a lot of pressure. But I will stand strong and I plan on not doing that which I know is wrong or should do. Like leaving the mission area, not working hard, slacking off, hanging out , emailing on non-p-days. Now one thing I want to make very clear. I have never corrected anyone here for what they've done or scolded them. I don't believe in that. In fact the Lord said one should only rebuke when the holy ghost tells them to. I still consider them good people, I just don't like the feeling I get when I do those things. I pray with the Lord that I may stay strong and do what he expects me to do, what I signed up to do, what I promised I would do when I wrote a prophet of God accepting my mission call. I want you to know I am not perfect, never will be in this life, but I try my best to follow most of the rules (the ones I think are reasonable--in a companionship its a give and take relationship) It's probably going to be a trial for me, but don't fear I will be true and faithful until the end, even if I have to outright say "No, I'm not doing that, that's not what I signed up for...think what you want...You guys can go do that, I'll go do something else"
In the end, I'm just going to be me. I'm going to be myself and myself likes to listen to music that sometimes isn't appropriate, and myself likes to work really hard, myself likes to see the change in peoples lives, and myself likes to be myself. So I won't let them change me. Myself is still learning and growing. That's my motto I suppose, I'm myself and I'll be obedient and keep on keepin' on, because I feel good when I go to sleep and wake up in the morning. Don't worry about me!
My new area is Calaca, Batangas and old area of Elder Yeatz (they all still know him weird!)
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/Ph_locator_batangas_calaca.png/280px-Ph_locator_batangas_calaca.png
It's a great area, president said I was really lucky to go there and yesterday at church I learned why. The branch is so strong there, it was a bit of a shock coming from Boac. I didn't have to do anything but listen in Church and then after teach the Single Adults how to introduce lessons in missionary work. About 100 people came to church, there are a ton of Return Missionaries, who actually know there stuff and are really helping the Branch. There is this one RM named Brother Noche, who is AMAZING! He is setting up the branch missionaries to work and tract FOR US. He said "Well in my mission I really hated tracting and finding, so...WE'LL DO IT FOR YOU! haha so i'm stoked about that and here im really excited to work! My new companion is Elder Painagan from Davao City, Mindanao. I love the kid, I was his District Leader in Sto. Tomas! We worked together for a day 4 months ago and now im his comp, weird huh? What's awesome is Elder Centeno my old companion is in my district again!! I get to see him every P-day and Wednesday at District Meeting! I'm stoked to be in this area it's amazing honestly I absolutely love it! I'm still district leader, I don't really know how long I'll be here. Perhaps I will become ZL next transfer. Elder Hansen is so amazing! He's training now! he's a stud for sure!
I don't have many stories right now. But I still wake up everyday and I love this work. I'm still being challenged, and I'm still learning a TON. Thank you guys so much for everything honeslty you've taught me. But theres nothing I could have done to really prepare for this mission. It's like everyday is a new adventure. Everyday is different for sure. I love the Lord and I love you all so much, thanks for your letter again mom, thats one im gonna print off and keep in the scriptures!
Hope zach recovers from the Kissing disease, Tiff survives in china, jessica keeps being masipag or hardworking, you have fun in LA/San Fran man what I would give for a vacation haha! (Or really just to sleep in a place with air conditioning!) Curt keeps having fun and waking up really early in the morning when my friends and I are just returning home haha
Thank you guys so much, I really cannot explain how much I've changed and experienced here. Looking in Hindsight, it's as if I've never really done anything but waste time when I was back at home. I'm begining to truly find out who I am, when I come back I want to sit down with you all and have a great conversation. I can't wait till then. Only about 13 1/2 months....who's counting?
Love you all,
Elder Gonzalez.
In the end, I'm just going to be me. I'm going to be myself and myself likes to listen to music that sometimes isn't appropriate, and myself likes to work really hard, myself likes to see the change in peoples lives, and myself likes to be myself. So I won't let them change me. Myself is still learning and growing. That's my motto I suppose, I'm myself and I'll be obedient and keep on keepin' on, because I feel good when I go to sleep and wake up in the morning. Don't worry about me!
My new area is Calaca, Batangas and old area of Elder Yeatz (they all still know him weird!)
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/41/Ph_locator_batangas_calaca.png/280px-Ph_locator_batangas_calaca.png
It's a great area, president said I was really lucky to go there and yesterday at church I learned why. The branch is so strong there, it was a bit of a shock coming from Boac. I didn't have to do anything but listen in Church and then after teach the Single Adults how to introduce lessons in missionary work. About 100 people came to church, there are a ton of Return Missionaries, who actually know there stuff and are really helping the Branch. There is this one RM named Brother Noche, who is AMAZING! He is setting up the branch missionaries to work and tract FOR US. He said "Well in my mission I really hated tracting and finding, so...WE'LL DO IT FOR YOU! haha so i'm stoked about that and here im really excited to work! My new companion is Elder Painagan from Davao City, Mindanao. I love the kid, I was his District Leader in Sto. Tomas! We worked together for a day 4 months ago and now im his comp, weird huh? What's awesome is Elder Centeno my old companion is in my district again!! I get to see him every P-day and Wednesday at District Meeting! I'm stoked to be in this area it's amazing honestly I absolutely love it! I'm still district leader, I don't really know how long I'll be here. Perhaps I will become ZL next transfer. Elder Hansen is so amazing! He's training now! he's a stud for sure!
I don't have many stories right now. But I still wake up everyday and I love this work. I'm still being challenged, and I'm still learning a TON. Thank you guys so much for everything honeslty you've taught me. But theres nothing I could have done to really prepare for this mission. It's like everyday is a new adventure. Everyday is different for sure. I love the Lord and I love you all so much, thanks for your letter again mom, thats one im gonna print off and keep in the scriptures!
Hope zach recovers from the Kissing disease, Tiff survives in china, jessica keeps being masipag or hardworking, you have fun in LA/San Fran man what I would give for a vacation haha! (Or really just to sleep in a place with air conditioning!) Curt keeps having fun and waking up really early in the morning when my friends and I are just returning home haha
Thank you guys so much, I really cannot explain how much I've changed and experienced here. Looking in Hindsight, it's as if I've never really done anything but waste time when I was back at home. I'm begining to truly find out who I am, when I come back I want to sit down with you all and have a great conversation. I can't wait till then. Only about 13 1/2 months....who's counting?
Love you all,
Elder Gonzalez.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
May 25, 2010
Subject:
Mom,
First and foremost and I want to say how much of a strength you've been to me through all of this. without you I don't think I would still be here. I treasure your weekly emails and that letter you gave me on July 19th 2009, more than I do sometimes the scriptures. I also want to thank you for your constant, unchanging, and inspiring motherly love that you seem to shed on me, every morning I rise. I'm not quite sure how you do, but even though I am thousands of miles away, I feel that you are so near. Interesting enough we went to an Island today, took a little tiny boat and it started stormy, when landed on this little island and it just rained like crazy and was rainy, perhaps you were really thinking of me ha! I wish I could express everything that was in my heart, but I know that email and talking on the phone twice a year is sufficient, So I hope that you will trust me when I say: I love you more than you will ever truly know, and the reason I am still here is because of you.
In regards to Tiffany, I'm extremely proud of her, I really am. I am happy she is experiencing the world and doing what she feels she needs to do. I believe that God calls people to certain positions in their lives and they need not "Hide Their Talents" (The parable of Christ in the New Testament when his servants hid their talents at the last day the Lord takes away the talents from the one who hid it and never multiplied his talents) At the same time, I hope it's for the right reasons. In all honesty and truth, the things I am doing is not for anyone but myself, the God that gave me life, and for his children that often persecute, mock, or love me. I don't pride in the recognition I have or for the callings I've received in the mission. If it were up to me, I would have it that I got no callings, I do like leading missionaries here, but when you become a leader, the other missionaries from your batch take it to heart and there is always people comparing themselves it gets really old. It also gets really difficult because you need to be an example all the time and you answer for all their mistakes, which I know you are used to. I just hope Tiffany is gaining self-confidence, is finding out who she is, doing things for the right reasons, and discovering how great God is.
Zachary, I couldn't be happier than I am in him right now, I really see the tremendous blessings being poured at on everyone of my family, ESPECIALLY him. I love him and have all trust in what he is doing. I know him; he is my best friend, my little brother, and my inspiration. I look at the football picture you sent almost every morning and I smile, I'm so excited to come back and watch his Junior and Senior games. However, at the same time I am so scared for him. That story about that kid who "Roids" I'm afraid he is in a time in his life where there’s a ton of GOOD and BAD influences. I know exactly what goes on in High School. I was young once too ;), I have friends who fell into the darkness of drugs, steroids, drinking, and even the obsession of sex and immortality. My only advice for you Bro, is stay up man. Be real, be smart, and don’t do anything stupid. Like Joseph from the Old Testament story, RUN If you have to (Thanks Sister Morris) Don't get caught up in trying to be better than everyone, don't get caught up in Pride. Stay humble I promise you it's worth it, If you want an example of who you should be...look at Floyd Mayweather, he's an amazing athlete, but look at the way he conducts himself, his arrogance and pride bespeaks ignorance and lack of intelligence. You will do amazing things!
Keep Reading
Jessica, Mom, tells me your going through a challenging time right now.. Jessica I urge you, as a brother, friend, and one of your best friends. rise to a higher standard, stand a little taller, be better than you have ever been. You’re a strong and beautiful girl and need to ensure that you surround yourself with people that love you and respect you. You are a hardworking an successful business woman and will be able to accomplish anything you set your mind too..I still think you should get into animal care field.. Maybe not between you and MOM you guys would bring everything home, just for awhile as MOM use to say.. I promise you in the name of Jesus Christ, if you start doing the things you know you must do, as hard and as tough as it seems right now things will change and you will find your place and happiness… I am going to tell you what Mom tells me regularly,, I am always with you, TODAY ITS WINDY AND AS IT HITS ME IN THE FACE I THINK OF WHAT Mom ALWAYS Tells me..WHEN YOU FEEL THAT WIND IN YOUR FACE, THAT RAIN ON YOUR CHEEK.. THE SWEAT ON YOUR BROW.. ITS YOUR BROTHER REACHING OUT 6500 MILES FROM YOU STILL HOLDING AND COMFORTING HIS BIG SISTER ….ITS ME GIVING YOU THE BREEZE TO CATCH YOUR BREATH, THE RAIN TO COOL YOU OFF AND SWEAT TO MAKE YOU STRONG.. WITHOUT THE ABILITY TO THINK THOSE THOUGHTS AND KNOW THE LOVE AND YET SADNESS THAT CONSUMES ME HERE, IT WOULD BE OVER WHELMING. I KNOW THAT THE SAME GREAT STARS YOU SEE AT NIGHT OR THE MOON OVER YOUR HEAD.. ARE THE SAME THAT COME TO ME HERE AND THEY HERE MY PRAYERS TO PROTECT YOU, KEEP YOU STRONG,
KEEP YOU FOCUSED, TAKE AWAY ANY FEAR, LONELINESS, FATIGUE, OR FEELINGS OF DEFEAT.. TO TAKE ALL THAT FROM YOUR GRASP AND SEND IT TO ME.. TO SHARE, FIX OR JUST HOLD ONTO.
I BELIEVE THE STARS ARE THE ANGELS/EYES TO THE LORD LOOKING OUT FOR ALL OF US..
WE HAVE UNCLE BUD, GREAT NAN. ME MAW AND THEY ARE ALL ON OUR SIDE THEY UNDERSTAND AND BELIEVE IN BOTH OF US, SO THAT WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS TIME IN OUR LIVES AND BOTH BE BETTER PEOPLE.. THESE ARE THE TIMES OF TRIALS AND TRIBULATION FOR BOTH OF US..
. . You're life will change. I urge you! Please I say this out of Love and in the depths of humility. Whatever decision you make in your life I will be behind you, but I will continually push and persuade you to higher planes. I know you can do it sister!
Curt, I cannot thank you enough for the opportunities you've given me in my youth; they have been of eternal consequence. I'm becoming the man I want to be, because I had an example to look up to and to emulate. I know you still have your flaws, we all do. You've given me many strengths and I thank you for all that you’ve done for me. I want to apologize for not spending enough time with you while growing up, I was a brat of a kid, but we shall spend more time when I get back. I plan on getting really good at golf, because I know I have no hope against Zach in Basketball, Volleyball, Track, Baseball, Football, or really any sport for that matter, the boy is a machine.. Heck he probably golf’s like a Pro too, what happen there.. He obviously got a double scoop of athletic abilities…. At least I will have a club to keep him at bay and you have golf clubs and a Visa Card ;)
Mom, The other night, we were teaching English to a group of members here in Boac, and I glanced at the moon and it made an amazing impact on me. It was a half crescent or it looked liked "God's Toe Nail" and above it was a star (which I later found out was Mars) it was a beautiful sight, it made me think of you and the love you continue to shower on me. Something that I've learned here mom recently. Is that some things our out of our control. I've been fighting and striving and helping members with their drinking problems and it literally kills me when we stop buy and their drunk, then I have to run the church here the President doesn't show up to church, by giving speaks, blessing the Sacrament, organizing the classes, teaching and teaching It's heartbreaking to be rejecting and to pull these children metaphorically out of the street and way of danger, but nevertheless see them run in again and get hit by a car. So Mom, my advice to you now is...Let go! Let go of all that stress. It's a hard feeling to let go of responsibility, but the "Responsibility" That you hold is not yours to hold. You worry and focus and want to help so many people which is amazing and shows the extreme size of your heart...but you it's not your battle to fight. You can only pull a child out of the street so much, you can only tell someone to do something so many times, in the end they must make the decisions of this dark and dreary world for themselves. If they choose wrong, you will be there to pick them up, but until then, let them free. If that means, if they have to file bankruptcy let them pay the bills, If that means that one of your children ruins their lives through bad decisions, at least you did your part, be there to pick them up and dust them off. Let them make their decisions, but mom it's their decisions to make. I say this out of gratitude and humility not out of pride. I know mom if you let go some of the stress you have, focus on the family, focus on your happiness, focus on your marriage. It seems everyone this day is looking for people to blame and looking for excuses for failures, stop being a crutch to them, let them fall, let them realize they are not what they think they are, then slowly build them up to something greater. Like a building, if you have a weak foundation, you must destroy it first then rebuild it. Mom destroy your old foundation of stress and rebuilding it with compassion and love, but learn to love yourself more Mom, because your amazing!
Nanny and Papa ,Thank you so much for everything you've done for me. I thank you for the opportunity I had to speak to you the other day. I can't even write my feelings I have for you here, you've influenced my life that I cannot even understand yet. The things you've taught me have eternal consequences. Just know I love you so much and miss you
Now, I've thought about this next thing I am going to say and perhaps it was expected to come a lot of earlier than this, but this one thing I know is true. I know all the joy and happiness I have in this life is a direct result of two things. And that's you all my family, and the church. The love I have from you all is exemplified and I truly understand it because of the church and it's teachings because of the goodness of God. Now please listen to this next thing I want to say, please pay heed to what I have to say, I don't say this as a brainwashed missionary or an uneducated 20 year old kid, I say this as a loving, homesick, and heartbroken Son and Missionary. I know that if you read the book of Mormon it will change all your lives. I know that if you listen to the message of the missionaries you will find joy that cannot be explained. I don't have to convince you, you will be convinced. God will manifest the truth of it unto you all. I urge you I beg you, If I was in front of you I would say the same message, Read the Book of Mormon, Meet the Missionaries, Listen to their message ,ask God if the things I have said are true. I'm not saying you need to change your life, If you receive an answer from God he will tell you what to do. I know you have felt the spirit, I know the feeling you get in your hearts when you go to the Church and to the Missionary Night, that isn't a coincidence, it's not just a strange or unfamiliar feeling, its God calling you back to him. There is so much more happiness and joy waiting for you. Just give it one shot; if it's not your cup of tea I will never bother you again with it. Just try it once, I know that God lives, and Jesus Is the Christ, through him we will quiet all our fears and calm all our nerves, I know that Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God and he did see God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ, I know that Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God on the earth today, he speaks and councils with God, I know that families can be together forever, and it’s one of my greatest desires to be sealed with you all. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, it's changed my life and I constantly want to be better every time I read it. I know that If you read and pray about it, God will answer your prayers that is a promise that will never change. Thank you for everything and I love you all very much.
love you no matter what,
Josh
Mom,
First and foremost and I want to say how much of a strength you've been to me through all of this. without you I don't think I would still be here. I treasure your weekly emails and that letter you gave me on July 19th 2009, more than I do sometimes the scriptures. I also want to thank you for your constant, unchanging, and inspiring motherly love that you seem to shed on me, every morning I rise. I'm not quite sure how you do, but even though I am thousands of miles away, I feel that you are so near. Interesting enough we went to an Island today, took a little tiny boat and it started stormy, when landed on this little island and it just rained like crazy and was rainy, perhaps you were really thinking of me ha! I wish I could express everything that was in my heart, but I know that email and talking on the phone twice a year is sufficient, So I hope that you will trust me when I say: I love you more than you will ever truly know, and the reason I am still here is because of you.
In regards to Tiffany, I'm extremely proud of her, I really am. I am happy she is experiencing the world and doing what she feels she needs to do. I believe that God calls people to certain positions in their lives and they need not "Hide Their Talents" (The parable of Christ in the New Testament when his servants hid their talents at the last day the Lord takes away the talents from the one who hid it and never multiplied his talents) At the same time, I hope it's for the right reasons. In all honesty and truth, the things I am doing is not for anyone but myself, the God that gave me life, and for his children that often persecute, mock, or love me. I don't pride in the recognition I have or for the callings I've received in the mission. If it were up to me, I would have it that I got no callings, I do like leading missionaries here, but when you become a leader, the other missionaries from your batch take it to heart and there is always people comparing themselves it gets really old. It also gets really difficult because you need to be an example all the time and you answer for all their mistakes, which I know you are used to. I just hope Tiffany is gaining self-confidence, is finding out who she is, doing things for the right reasons, and discovering how great God is.
Zachary, I couldn't be happier than I am in him right now, I really see the tremendous blessings being poured at on everyone of my family, ESPECIALLY him. I love him and have all trust in what he is doing. I know him; he is my best friend, my little brother, and my inspiration. I look at the football picture you sent almost every morning and I smile, I'm so excited to come back and watch his Junior and Senior games. However, at the same time I am so scared for him. That story about that kid who "Roids" I'm afraid he is in a time in his life where there’s a ton of GOOD and BAD influences. I know exactly what goes on in High School. I was young once too ;), I have friends who fell into the darkness of drugs, steroids, drinking, and even the obsession of sex and immortality. My only advice for you Bro, is stay up man. Be real, be smart, and don’t do anything stupid. Like Joseph from the Old Testament story, RUN If you have to (Thanks Sister Morris) Don't get caught up in trying to be better than everyone, don't get caught up in Pride. Stay humble I promise you it's worth it, If you want an example of who you should be...look at Floyd Mayweather, he's an amazing athlete, but look at the way he conducts himself, his arrogance and pride bespeaks ignorance and lack of intelligence. You will do amazing things!
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Jessica, Mom, tells me your going through a challenging time right now.. Jessica I urge you, as a brother, friend, and one of your best friends. rise to a higher standard, stand a little taller, be better than you have ever been. You’re a strong and beautiful girl and need to ensure that you surround yourself with people that love you and respect you. You are a hardworking an successful business woman and will be able to accomplish anything you set your mind too..I still think you should get into animal care field.. Maybe not between you and MOM you guys would bring everything home, just for awhile as MOM use to say.. I promise you in the name of Jesus Christ, if you start doing the things you know you must do, as hard and as tough as it seems right now things will change and you will find your place and happiness… I am going to tell you what Mom tells me regularly,, I am always with you, TODAY ITS WINDY AND AS IT HITS ME IN THE FACE I THINK OF WHAT Mom ALWAYS Tells me..WHEN YOU FEEL THAT WIND IN YOUR FACE, THAT RAIN ON YOUR CHEEK.. THE SWEAT ON YOUR BROW.. ITS YOUR BROTHER REACHING OUT 6500 MILES FROM YOU STILL HOLDING AND COMFORTING HIS BIG SISTER ….ITS ME GIVING YOU THE BREEZE TO CATCH YOUR BREATH, THE RAIN TO COOL YOU OFF AND SWEAT TO MAKE YOU STRONG.. WITHOUT THE ABILITY TO THINK THOSE THOUGHTS AND KNOW THE LOVE AND YET SADNESS THAT CONSUMES ME HERE, IT WOULD BE OVER WHELMING. I KNOW THAT THE SAME GREAT STARS YOU SEE AT NIGHT OR THE MOON OVER YOUR HEAD.. ARE THE SAME THAT COME TO ME HERE AND THEY HERE MY PRAYERS TO PROTECT YOU, KEEP YOU STRONG,
KEEP YOU FOCUSED, TAKE AWAY ANY FEAR, LONELINESS, FATIGUE, OR FEELINGS OF DEFEAT.. TO TAKE ALL THAT FROM YOUR GRASP AND SEND IT TO ME.. TO SHARE, FIX OR JUST HOLD ONTO.
I BELIEVE THE STARS ARE THE ANGELS/EYES TO THE LORD LOOKING OUT FOR ALL OF US..
WE HAVE UNCLE BUD, GREAT NAN. ME MAW AND THEY ARE ALL ON OUR SIDE THEY UNDERSTAND AND BELIEVE IN BOTH OF US, SO THAT WE WILL GET THROUGH THIS TIME IN OUR LIVES AND BOTH BE BETTER PEOPLE.. THESE ARE THE TIMES OF TRIALS AND TRIBULATION FOR BOTH OF US..
. . You're life will change. I urge you! Please I say this out of Love and in the depths of humility. Whatever decision you make in your life I will be behind you, but I will continually push and persuade you to higher planes. I know you can do it sister!
Curt, I cannot thank you enough for the opportunities you've given me in my youth; they have been of eternal consequence. I'm becoming the man I want to be, because I had an example to look up to and to emulate. I know you still have your flaws, we all do. You've given me many strengths and I thank you for all that you’ve done for me. I want to apologize for not spending enough time with you while growing up, I was a brat of a kid, but we shall spend more time when I get back. I plan on getting really good at golf, because I know I have no hope against Zach in Basketball, Volleyball, Track, Baseball, Football, or really any sport for that matter, the boy is a machine.. Heck he probably golf’s like a Pro too, what happen there.. He obviously got a double scoop of athletic abilities…. At least I will have a club to keep him at bay and you have golf clubs and a Visa Card ;)
Mom, The other night, we were teaching English to a group of members here in Boac, and I glanced at the moon and it made an amazing impact on me. It was a half crescent or it looked liked "God's Toe Nail" and above it was a star (which I later found out was Mars) it was a beautiful sight, it made me think of you and the love you continue to shower on me. Something that I've learned here mom recently. Is that some things our out of our control. I've been fighting and striving and helping members with their drinking problems and it literally kills me when we stop buy and their drunk, then I have to run the church here the President doesn't show up to church, by giving speaks, blessing the Sacrament, organizing the classes, teaching and teaching It's heartbreaking to be rejecting and to pull these children metaphorically out of the street and way of danger, but nevertheless see them run in again and get hit by a car. So Mom, my advice to you now is...Let go! Let go of all that stress. It's a hard feeling to let go of responsibility, but the "Responsibility" That you hold is not yours to hold. You worry and focus and want to help so many people which is amazing and shows the extreme size of your heart...but you it's not your battle to fight. You can only pull a child out of the street so much, you can only tell someone to do something so many times, in the end they must make the decisions of this dark and dreary world for themselves. If they choose wrong, you will be there to pick them up, but until then, let them free. If that means, if they have to file bankruptcy let them pay the bills, If that means that one of your children ruins their lives through bad decisions, at least you did your part, be there to pick them up and dust them off. Let them make their decisions, but mom it's their decisions to make. I say this out of gratitude and humility not out of pride. I know mom if you let go some of the stress you have, focus on the family, focus on your happiness, focus on your marriage. It seems everyone this day is looking for people to blame and looking for excuses for failures, stop being a crutch to them, let them fall, let them realize they are not what they think they are, then slowly build them up to something greater. Like a building, if you have a weak foundation, you must destroy it first then rebuild it. Mom destroy your old foundation of stress and rebuilding it with compassion and love, but learn to love yourself more Mom, because your amazing!
Nanny and Papa ,Thank you so much for everything you've done for me. I thank you for the opportunity I had to speak to you the other day. I can't even write my feelings I have for you here, you've influenced my life that I cannot even understand yet. The things you've taught me have eternal consequences. Just know I love you so much and miss you
Now, I've thought about this next thing I am going to say and perhaps it was expected to come a lot of earlier than this, but this one thing I know is true. I know all the joy and happiness I have in this life is a direct result of two things. And that's you all my family, and the church. The love I have from you all is exemplified and I truly understand it because of the church and it's teachings because of the goodness of God. Now please listen to this next thing I want to say, please pay heed to what I have to say, I don't say this as a brainwashed missionary or an uneducated 20 year old kid, I say this as a loving, homesick, and heartbroken Son and Missionary. I know that if you read the book of Mormon it will change all your lives. I know that if you listen to the message of the missionaries you will find joy that cannot be explained. I don't have to convince you, you will be convinced. God will manifest the truth of it unto you all. I urge you I beg you, If I was in front of you I would say the same message, Read the Book of Mormon, Meet the Missionaries, Listen to their message ,ask God if the things I have said are true. I'm not saying you need to change your life, If you receive an answer from God he will tell you what to do. I know you have felt the spirit, I know the feeling you get in your hearts when you go to the Church and to the Missionary Night, that isn't a coincidence, it's not just a strange or unfamiliar feeling, its God calling you back to him. There is so much more happiness and joy waiting for you. Just give it one shot; if it's not your cup of tea I will never bother you again with it. Just try it once, I know that God lives, and Jesus Is the Christ, through him we will quiet all our fears and calm all our nerves, I know that Joseph Smith is a Prophet of God and he did see God the Father and his Son Jesus Christ, I know that Thomas S. Monson is a prophet of God on the earth today, he speaks and councils with God, I know that families can be together forever, and it’s one of my greatest desires to be sealed with you all. I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God, it's changed my life and I constantly want to be better every time I read it. I know that If you read and pray about it, God will answer your prayers that is a promise that will never change. Thank you for everything and I love you all very much.
love you no matter what,
Josh
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