Being Called Into The BYU Singles Ward Bishopric

I'm not sure that I will ever bear my testimony again!

Bishop Shelley called this morning and asked me to go see the Stake President.  When I got up there I recognized a couple of the men in the ward.  Ideas started going through my mind; a calling to a position in one of the elder's quorums?  an assistant ward clerk?  what?

As I went in to talk with one of the counselors, the first question he asked me was, "Have you impressed your bishop?"  That seemed an odd question and I really couldn't answer it.  He then asked me what I was doing in The Church.  I told him that I presently did not have a calling in the ward.  He then asked me if I would serve as the second counselor in the Bishopric.  That question almost short-circuited my brain.  I didn't know what to say.  I felt most unworthy and inadequate.  I told the member of the Stake Presidency why I felt that way and requested a talk with Bishop Shelley.  We talked, he told me to see him after church.

That gave me the opportunity to go home and pray.  I cried and cried and I felt so inadequate.  I prayed for comfort and strength and peace of mind.  I prayed that the Lord would help me to accept the decisions made by his ordained leaders.

As I walked back to church I felt a feeling of peace come over me.  There had been a lot of doubts and reservations going through my mind.  All my bad actions, thoughts and deeds came to mind.  The prayer helped a great deal.

After sacrament I talked again with the Bishop and got things squared away for lots of work to come. I started the minute that I walked out of his office.  We counted up tithing, fast offerings, and budget then went and deposited them at the bank.  Rob was very helpful and gracious as he assisted me.

I then went back and talked to President Thompson.

What a day!  Up to the MTC after finishing my fast (one of the best I've had in a long time).  Problems with AU in the gym with all the Brazilian missionaries.

Valerie came down from Murray to visit.  She is a gem and I think I better keep an eye on her.

John got back from Idaho.  I missed him.  We shared experiences from our mission journals and laughed.  I do love him and will miss him greatly when he gets married.

I called Mom today.  She was depressed and in tears.  She feels at times that she has failed in raising her family in The Church.  I tried to comfort her.

A valiant woman.  I love her dearly.


JC

Bolivia Bound: Thoughts From The Miami Airport

We are sitting in the Miami Airport.  I think these lines are the same ones that I wrote two years ago in the same place while waiting to go to Argentina.  Some eternal experiences have transpired in the last two days.

Sunday.  Many compliments were paid to the Azul District.  We averaged 80% on DMT, 9 out of 10 memorized all 8 discussions, and many commented on the love and examples that we have shown each other.  That night we had a great culture class.  Elder Harris and Elder Merrill really got us excited to go.  Then, we went up to the temple and had a testimony meeting.  I cannot describe the spirit that was there so I won't try.  After the meeting we all gave each other abrazos.  Everyone was crying, those abrazos were so neat.  I just won't forget District Azul.  It rained on the run back from the temple.

I felt like I was in a dream world on the bus to Salt Lake.  The reality of 2 months has not sunk in.  These two months in the MTC have been the fastest in my life.  If I have had thoughts of being unprepared they are gone.  Now is my time and I am ready.

Seeing Mom and Dad and Linda at the Airport really was a dream.  It was so fast.  Dad and Mom were fairly easy to comprehend but I haven't seen Linda for five months and I was just shocked at how good she looked to me.  I just bumbled with my words.  I don't think that I got one clear thing across, and that handshake with Linda just seemed insufficient.  I guess one day I'll gain my reward haha.  I talked with them a little about my experiences in the MTC and what they were doing.  The time went just too fast.  On the way up to the Airport I wrote my testimony in The Book of Mormon that I bought for Dad.  The road was real bumpy and the handwriting was shaky but it was my testimony.  I also was able to bear my testimony to all three in Spanish, it was neat for me and I think that they felt my spirit.

Well, on the plane to Denver I handed out my first pamphlet to a man who had his family with him.  I was nervous as all get out.  Elder Cowley who is in my traveling companion told me that I did a good job, that helped.  Speaking of Elder Cowley, his grandfather's brother was Matthew Cowley.  He is a real good missionary.

My second contact in the plane was real great.  We were flying between Denver and Dallas.  I sat next to a lady named Laura Wallace.  We got a real good conversation going about Colorado, Trumbles in Boulder, sheep, Aspen, and many other things.  We became fast friends when I gave her some of my Mom's toffee that she made for me.  She raved and raved about it.  Well the spirit was helping out and I got some inspiration.  I told her that if she gave me her address I would have my Mom send her the recipe.  That was the first address that I have received for a referral and I think that it was pretty smooth.  We then got on the subject of families.  I gave her Elder Cowley's tract on Family Home Evenings since I had given mine to the first family.  She mentioned that she had the missionaries over before.  I asked her what she thought of the Church.  She told me that she thought the Church was a real good one and that she was extremely impressed with the youth.  However she told me that she couldn't accept the Joseph Smith Story.  I told her my feelings about Joseph Smith, bore my testimony of him and gave her the pamphlet on him.  I aske her to read it again and pray.  I told her also that I would send some missionaries again.

I felt so good doing all of this.  She truly was a good lady.  By this time the plan had landed.  I took a big piece of the toffee and wrapped it in a napkin for her.  I really think she was touched.  We said our goodbyes and parted.

My third contact was probably the strangest.  A lady who was from Cuba and returning on a vacation to Miami.  She didn't speak very good English which gave me a chance to practice my Spanish.  We introduced ourselves and I talked with her a little about Bolivia.  She then kind of drifted off to sleep.  We ate dinner and then she slept a little again.  I had decided that she didn't want to hear about the Church.  I think it was just that I didn't want to talk because the spirit was really working.  It seems as if out of nowhere she just asked me what our Church believed.  Well, I guess I realized that it wasn't me that should decide who to teach and who not to.  I girded up my guts and got going.  I presented the C-1 concept and C-2 to her in Spanish.  I was really nervous.  I hope that I didn't get her too confused.  I told her that if she gave me her address, then some missionaries would be sent to tell her more.  She did so gladly.  She was really surprised with the story of Joseph Smith.  Apparently she had never heard of him.  I felt so insufficient with my ability to communicate.

It's 1:20 am and we just heard that our flight will be delayed until 4:00 this morning.  That is going to be a while.

The variety of people here in this Airport is absolutely incredible.  All races, colors and creeds are represented.  Spanish is as commonly heard as English.  There also is a diversity of morals and standards of attire.  Some with sufficient, others insufficient.  Well it is time to attempt some sleep.  Before I do that, I will write just about my feelings right now.

I can just feel those precious missionary days just slipping through my fingers.  Talking with the people is really a great experience.  Every person is so different and so full of stories of their own life.  I always hope that I can have this desire and love for the people.  I think the love that I have felt for these people has come as part of my call.  The last lady that I taught was a negro.  The funny things was that distinction wasn't made until I saw her later in the airport.  While I was teaching she was just another child of God to whom I should share my message.

Flight Plans To Bolivia & Saying Goodbye To Elder Klaich

Well, 1 down and 3 to go!

Elder Klaich took off this morning for Italy.  Last night the four of us, Elders Klaich, Chavey, Smith and Christensen got together and took some pictures.  Then we had a prayer.  It was really neat.  We all knelt down in a circle with arms around shoulders and Elder Smith gave the prayer.  Afterward we all had some "abrazos" (hugs) and that's the last I've seen of Mitch Klaich, for two years anyway.

Due to this late night gathering, I got to bed pretty late.  It was the first time that I missed getting to bed at 10:30 but considering the circumstances I think that it was justified.

We also got our flight plans yesterday.  I wrote home and told Dad and Mom that we were leaving on a Monday.  Two days before Jan gets back from Europe!!  I am not sure what is going to happen.  I know that Mom will want to drive over and see us off.  Dad however may have something going on.  I'll just wait and see.

We are going to have quite a few hours in Miami.  I wonder if I can contact anyone.  It will be my only chance to be a missionary in my own land.  I better make it good!

We sure got a long P-Day in front of us tomorrow.  There are a ton of things to buy to get ready.  I hope I have some time to write letters, but I just don't know.  I hope nobody gets mad if I don't.

"I can't say it enough - my parents are the greatest!!"

Who do I brag about first - Mom or Dad?  Heads, so I'll start with Mom.

They got back from the Wool Growers Convention in Vail where they were both honored.  Mom as the GWGA Auxiliary Past President and Dad as the Guest of Honor.  I just looked back in my journal and realized that I have just written some of these things twice.  I will vouch for Mother's skill in speech-making.  I have never heard her give an unimpressive speech.  And unlike most other people, I think that I judge her harder than anybody else I know.

Some of Dad's accomplishment's are as follows: First Chairman of The Wool and Sheep Board.  The program for the convention which raise $18,000 dollars for the CWG was his brain child.  Chairman or Co-Chairman of the Convention for 7 years.  President of Wool Growers for two years (and later, the Outstanding Man in Agriculture, Mesa County 1998).  Plus this year he was named Wool Grower of the Year.

I know that there are so many other things that he has done that he won't take credit for.

I can't say it enough, my parents are the greatest!!

Well, the Lord does work in mysterious ways.  We had a lesson in Sunday School on teaching with love.  One strong point that really stuck is how we shouldn't aspire to leadership positions.  Well, this fit in pretty well and helped me with my problems in this area.

Then during fast and testimony meeting the thought came up.  That it doesn't really matter where we serve as long as we are the best.  I think I convinced myself that if I wasn't going to get called to a leadership position then there was a reason for it and I would be the best junior companion in the mission, even if it was for two years.  This may sound extreme but I was really feeling that way.  Then after the closing prayer, President Barrett came up to me and asked me if I would serve as an acting District Leader for the new district coming in this Thursday.  Of all the things this was the least expected.  I do know that the call must have been inspired.  I really don't know why I know, it is just that I knew in my heart that the Lord prompted him to do this.

We went to a fourteen stake fireside tonight at the Marriott Center.  I don't think that I have ever seen so many good-looking girls in my life.  To say the least it was pretty hard to concentrate.  Elder Pulman spoke about friends, both living and the kind we find through books.  I sure am glad though that I don't have to go back there until after my mission!!!

Letters From Home & Learning To Not Get Caught Up In Callings

What a day!  I feel like I was out of it the whole time.  I learned about 160 lines but I wouldn't want to bet a dime on my ability to repeat even one phrase.

I got a bunch of letters from home.  Mom and Dad had gone to Wool Growers Convention in Vail.  Dad was the guest of honor.  I had never realized just how influential he has been in his work with the Wool Growers.  Mother told me in her letter some of the accomplishments that he has achieved.  I will write them later but they are impressive.  The fact that impresses me most is the extremely humble manner in which he has conducted himself.  I often wish that he would be just a little boastful just so I can get an idea of what he is doing.

Dad wrote me a letter.  It was neat.  What was most special to me was the praise that he gave to Mother.  She was president of the women's auxiliary of Wool Growers and I guess her speech was equally well-received with Dad's.

There are so many times that I have taken my parents for granted.  They really are so special.

I guess Linda wrote them a neat letter and that redhead even sent me five dollars for my mission fund.  What a gem!  I know that it was a sacrifice with school coming up and all and I hope she knows that I do appreciate it.

Tonight in our Branch meeting, Elder Laycock was called to be second counselor in the Branch and Elder Nelson was called to be our new District Leader.

I have to be honest and say that I was feeling kind of left out.  This was the second calling for both of them and I haven't received any.  However it just made me realize that I am going to develop some real humility and realize who I am really serving.  I am not here to receive recognition of men.  I am here to learn how to serve the Lord.  If I can learn to develop positive thought patterns I really can turn everything into something good.  For instance, I have no callings that will prevent me from fully applying myself to learning the language and charlas.  I know that I can do this and anything if the Lord is willing.

JC's Mission Farwell & Being Set Apart

Today was one of the choicest days of my life.  Today was Father's Day and the day of my farewell.

I think the best thing about today is the special feelings that I have had for my father.  I don't think that I have ever seen him better.  He showed real joy and appreciation for the gifts which he received.
The most special part of the day for me was Sacrament meeting.  The bishop spoke.  He even remembered a talk that I gave when I was 14.  Then Kerri in her meek but beautiful way, got up and told me that she loved me.  I get nervous every time she stands before a crowd.  Not because I'm worried about her speech difficulties but because her words always bring out my strongest emotions.  I often find myself choking on tears when she stands.  Jan followed Kerri with a "Dear John".  She reflected back on some of the moments that we have shared.  The long talks (which haven't been long enough) and shared confidences were mentioned in the talk.  Next came Kris.  She reflected some experiences that she has had with me.  Saving me from choking on a jack.

From time to time throughout the service, I struggled vainly with my emotions and tears.

Sister Marion Pond sang a song entitled "My Little Boy".  The song was composed by her.  It was very stirring.

Mother spoke of the missionary mold and the qualities that this particular "model" has.

I believe that the highlight of the day was when my beloved father spoke.  He fairly quickly wandered off of his notes.  His manner of speaking is so beautiful that no one would have guessed.  He expressed his appreciation to those people in the ward who had made contributions in my life (there are many).  He then went on to thank my friends.  It is hard for me to remember exactly what he said.  I was too busy fighting tear drops.  I do know that I don't believe that I have ever felt closer to him in my entire life.  His words came from his heart and I could feel his love for me as never before.  He closed his talk with some Spanish phrases which really hit me.  He said "John, 'Noja con Dios', 'Bueno suerte'" and one other that I can not recall.

The Lord helped me get through my talk somehow.  I wouldn't be surprised if no one heard anything.  They were probably pondering and savoring the preceding excellent talks.  I talked about missionary work.  I read a letter to my grandma that was written while my grandfather was in the mission field in 1912.  I closed by bearing my testimony and reading from Alma, his parting words with Shiblon who was going on a mission.

Brother Ken Lowell finished by singing "Ye Who Are Called To Labor".  Mike Chovey offered the benediction.

After Sacrament we had an open house.  It was enjoyable talking to those people whom I love so much and have helped me so dearly.  While at the open house, Bishop Christensen walked up to Jeff and I and informed us that we were both going to be set apart tonight.  Jeff and I both headed for the phones.  He to call his girlfriend and I to talk with my dearest Linda.  She must feel terribly left out.  Linda sounded kind of down.  I did my best to cheer her up but I am not too sure of my success.  It was hard saying goodbye.  I later found out that it would be OK to call her even after I was set apart.  I doubt that I will call her again however because I think that it will be easier for her not to hear my voice again.

After Sacrament the Bishop handed me a check.  It was for the sum of one-hundred dollars.  Even though it was written on a Church check, I would not be surprised if the money came out of his pocket.  Sister Klaich gave me a book by Carol Lynn Pearson and twenty dollars.  This good woman has two sons on missions and she does not have a lot of money.  I know the Lord will bless her.

At 8:00 pm we went to the Stake President's office.  He interviewed me then Jeff Smith, I then had the opportunity to stand in while Jeff was set apart.  Then Jeff and his Dad, my Dad, the Bishop stood in while the Stake President set me apart.  President Cleghorn said some marvelous things.  I hope and pray that I will be able to live up to the blessings that are in store for my family and myself.

We came home and listened to tapes of conversations and my birthday party.

We are going to head up to Aspen in the morning.

I took Debbie out last night and she gave me a pen to match my pencil.  I was touched.

Friday night we (the young adults) went to Birline Lake to water ski and swim out.  Afterwards we went to Pizza Hut to munch down.  On Wednesday night I took Julie Waldrop out.  I had to get my two year quota filled.  It was fun.  I enjoyed talking to her.

I AM A MISSIONARY!!!!!  I can't believe it.

Thinking About The Mission Farewell Talk Coming Up Soon

Well just one week and two days before I go into the MTC.

I got a surprise tape from Linda that was really neat.  I will have to return the favor.

Jeff Smith and his parents spoke at his farewell.  All of the speakers had some good thoughts.  Jeff's talk was short and simple.  Not like the big production that no doubt is in my mother's head.

I better get on the ball and plan my talk.  I hope it will be OK.

I just got a great idea.  I am going to gather my belongings and then will them to my family.

Right now I am waiting for a guy who wants to look at my car.  I hope he shows up soon.

Kris is arriving tomorrow afternoon.  Can't Wait.

Working Sheep With Dad & Mom's Testimony

What a day.  It is 10:50 pm and I am fairly tired.

Dad woke me up at 3:30 am.  We had to trail some sheep.  We said our goodbyes to Robert (our Australian visitor) and then hit the road.  We trailed the sheep 12 miles from Gateway to the foothills of the La Sals.  The country was marvelous.

We got home at 4:00 pm and I thought that I was through for the day.  However Dad needed some help to load some feeder lambs for market.  We had a short shute and we had to throw most of the lambs onto the top deck.  The lower deck went easier.  We got home at 9:00 pm.

Yesterday was a fine day.  We had a good testimony meeting.  Mother bore a beautiful testimony and I had to choke back the tears.  I love her so much.  I fully fail to show her often enough of my love for her.

Kerri wrote me a note telling me that she loved me.

I read a good deal out of Spencer W. Kimball's biography Sunday.  What a great yet humble man.  He accomplishes so much yet he still wants to do more.  What a great example for all mankind.  I can see why he is the prophet.

Well it is 11:00 pm and I should study my discussions and write to my dear Linda.  I hope I can get that accomplished.

Lance sent me a tape today.  It was great.  I do love him.  He has changed so much for the better and his words always inspire me.  I hope that we will always stay in touch.

Receiving The Temple Endowment & Other Pre-Mission Events

As Jan, Mother and I were traveling home from Manti yesterday, Jan started reading passages out of her journal.  I hope that some of the words that I will enter in this journal may serve to do some uplifting to some poor soul, meaning me.

I have to do some catching up on past events and I will do my best to bring it up to date.

I have been convalescing to an extent from a bad back.  This problem has been bothering me for the past few months.  I definitely believe that I am on the mend.

Since this is a missionary journal I will primarily contend with those things pertaining to my mission.  I must however add those happenings and events that are meaningful to me.

I guess I'll start with the shots.  My typhoid shot was a killer.  My arm ached for days and it made me sick.  I get the second dose two days before I go into the MTC!  Polio was OK, it was an oral vaccine.  I guess I will get the majority of my shots while I am in the MTC and then I will get some gamma-globulin shots every three months while in Bolivia.

I have had some really good talks with my Bishop and Stake President.  Bishop Christensen is a real good man as is President Cleghorn.  They have provided me with loving and wise counsel during these last weeks.

This weekend has really been a big event for me.  Thursday morning Jeff Smith and I drove over to Provo.  We barged in on Boyd Hill but as usual he offered us his floor and the rest of his house.

On Friday we met Mother and Jan at Mr. Mac's in Salt Lake.  Jeff and I got just about everything we needed right there in one store.  We got close to 50% off on all of our purchases.

Then we went over to purchase our first pairs of garments.  A lady sent us into dressing rooms to try them on.  That was really strange.

Jeff and I were fasting that day and it seems as if Mom and Jan were trying to tempt us.  Every time we turned around they were eating or drinking something!

Saturday was a real big event.  As I pondered and thought about going through the temple I realized to a small extent the responsibility that I would have to accept.  I just pray to the Lord that I will always be able to handle these responsibilities.

The temple ceremony was really neat.  There were a lot of things that I couldn't comprehend.  Fortunately I will be able to go through several more times before I leave for Bolivia.

The temple was so beautiful I just forgot about everything except for the endowment ceremony.  We were blessed to have in our company:  Mother, my Aunt La Rue, Wilford Moses, Gary Hall, Bishop Christensen, Lynn Shumway, and of course Jeff, Mitch, and myself.  I wish that my beloved sister Jan Leslie could have gone with but I know that her time will come and she will settle for no less.

After we went through the temple Aunt June prepared a marvelous feast of baked ham, salads and various other delectable foods.  It was grand!

The trip home was OK.  I am afraid that I will miss the scenic beauty of Utah and Colorado.