I don't know exactly how but it seems as though I have been able to keep this journal up to date. It's P-Day today and we have been kind of cleaning up. Two elders are out visiting from Oruro. One of them is another Tongan.
Yesterday was really neat. The Mamanis were baptized and I got to do it. The Church is an ex-mosque and I don't know what it was that we baptized in but it held enough water. The water was about 6 months old and a weird shade of green. It was harder trying to remember their names than it was the prayer. That night after Sacrament we watched movies again. When we watched The First Vision I felt the spirit really strong.
I guess I have been chosen to lead the music. It is just like singing a solo. We don't have anyone who can play the piano and a lot of the songs the people don't know, but it is fine.
Last night I about froze to death. I was wearing my garments, long underwear, shirt, tie, sweatshirt, socks, and scarf and I still froze. It was really cold this morning. The wind was really blowing and we froze.
I have really enjoyed today. I just feel good.
Showing posts with label a big day. Show all posts
Showing posts with label a big day. Show all posts
Monday, August 27, 1979
Thursday, August 23, 1979
First Impressions Of The Bolivia La Paz Mission
So much has transpired in the last few days that I don't know where to begin. Elder Kupu (a native Tongan) and I have been assigned to work in Colquiri. He is really a super elder. Colquiri is the location of the highest branch in the world (about 15,000 feet). I still haven't received my other suitcase, it is still in the Airport I think.
The Mission President met us at the Airpot and took all us to his home. Hotel, sleep, breakfast, orientation, assignments and we were off.
The city of La Paz is really incredible. So many colors, varieties, sounds and twists and turns, ups and downs. We went to mail a latter and buy some warm stuff for Colquiri. We went to the black market and it was neat.
Right now I am kind of sick. I really got off to a running start. The food is taking a while to get used to but so far I have been able to get everything down and keep it down. Although sometimes I can feel it trying to come up.
From what I hear about Colquiri it is going to be tough. Elder Kupu and I will be the only missionaries there. It is a mining town and the people are cold sometimes. I think that it will be a good way to start. If I can eat the food and work hard there, then I think that I will be able to work hard everywhere.
I wish I had the gift to be able to express my feelings and thoughts more clearly but alas, I have yet to develop the ability. Even though this journal may be too boring to re-read or for someone else to read, at least I am keeping with the admonition of President Kimball to maintain a journal.
One of the hardest things for me to keep down is the hot milk. I have had two glasses now and both times it was a life and death struggle to get it down. I can feel it right now in my stomach and it doesn't feel good.
In just two days here I have met so many good, kind and humble people. I really hope that I can learn to love Bolivia and the people.
To change the subject so that I don't lose it from thinking about the milk... I guess I am only the second (third) new missionary to start in Colquiri. Elder Hales was first and apprently it has done him good. He is now one of the Assistants to the President. I guess President Hill must have a lot of confidence in me. When Elder Hale was there when there were four missionaries, we will be the only ones. I hope that I don't let the President, my companero, or any of the others who are supporting me down. I know that if I can be humble and have the Lord with me all the time then I can't help but do good.
The Mission President met us at the Airpot and took all us to his home. Hotel, sleep, breakfast, orientation, assignments and we were off.
The city of La Paz is really incredible. So many colors, varieties, sounds and twists and turns, ups and downs. We went to mail a latter and buy some warm stuff for Colquiri. We went to the black market and it was neat.
Right now I am kind of sick. I really got off to a running start. The food is taking a while to get used to but so far I have been able to get everything down and keep it down. Although sometimes I can feel it trying to come up.
From what I hear about Colquiri it is going to be tough. Elder Kupu and I will be the only missionaries there. It is a mining town and the people are cold sometimes. I think that it will be a good way to start. If I can eat the food and work hard there, then I think that I will be able to work hard everywhere.
I wish I had the gift to be able to express my feelings and thoughts more clearly but alas, I have yet to develop the ability. Even though this journal may be too boring to re-read or for someone else to read, at least I am keeping with the admonition of President Kimball to maintain a journal.
One of the hardest things for me to keep down is the hot milk. I have had two glasses now and both times it was a life and death struggle to get it down. I can feel it right now in my stomach and it doesn't feel good.
In just two days here I have met so many good, kind and humble people. I really hope that I can learn to love Bolivia and the people.
To change the subject so that I don't lose it from thinking about the milk... I guess I am only the second (third) new missionary to start in Colquiri. Elder Hales was first and apprently it has done him good. He is now one of the Assistants to the President. I guess President Hill must have a lot of confidence in me. When Elder Hale was there when there were four missionaries, we will be the only ones. I hope that I don't let the President, my companero, or any of the others who are supporting me down. I know that if I can be humble and have the Lord with me all the time then I can't help but do good.
Monday, August 20, 1979
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.
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.
Sunday, June 17, 1979
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.
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.
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