As I mentioned in my last post from Hawaii, it was with mixed emotions that we boarded the plane in Honolulu on June 13 headed for the Salt Lake airport. We really enjoyed our mission and met some phenomenal people. We loved the work we were doing and the responsibilities that we were given. I really think that the people will miss us also, at least for a few weeks until they get used to the new missionary couples. Funny how that works. You work so hard to do things in a way that you hope people recognize your contribution. Then someone else steps in and all is well again and who knows, maybe we will be forgotten. I do think we left an impact on many, however.
When we stepped off the plane in SLC and got to the escalator, the whole family was there waiting for us complete with signs of welcoming. It was so good to see all the kids and grandkids waiting with happy smiles and hugs. That was the BEST! After collecting our luggage, we all went to Leatherby's for ice cream. It was tremendous.
We were officially released by the Stake President on the 14th of June. We told him about our mission and the impact it had on us and bore testimony.
Today, Sunday June 26, we met with the high council and reported our mission to them. Our opportunity to speak in sacrament meeting is July 17 and we get to share the meeting with Spencer as he prepares to serve his mission in Portugal. So excited for him.
Since we have been home we have purchased a truck, made a trip to Lehi to see Michelle's house and visit the boys, attended the Provo City Center temple and done some miscellaneous yard work here and there. I really haven't had to do much because Ryan and Allie had it in such good shape. I was really blessed in that respect. They are still living here but they do have a house under contract so I'm sure they will be glad to get into something bigger and their own again.
They had the other parts of the house under control too.
I will admit it has been a little hard getting back into the groove of things. I have been helping Hannah with some sewing. She is a good little seamstress. She is making aprons for her friends and herself. So cute!
Well, in keeping with the things I wrote about while on the mission, I think I will write a little about church meetings today. We had a missionary farewell for Elder Colton Wilden who leaves for Modesto CA. on Wednesday. He did a very good job and will be a great missionary. President and Sister Broadbent are also leaving on their 3rd mission to Africa. Evidently he will be a field representative for 131 mission presidents in Africa. Hard to believe that there are that many missions in that country. Both of them talked of missionary work and the importance of it. Such spiritual people. If I could only have a portion of their knowledge and ability to speak of the gospel, I would be happy. Well, I am happy but I would feel better about my level of knowledge.
In Relief Society we were given the lesson I think from the conference talks entitled "Feasting at the Lord's Table." I need to re-read the talk but in essence it was talking about rescuing the Lord's lost sheep. That parable from the Bible was referred to so I need to re-read that as well. We all know family or friends that for whatever reason, have elected to withdraw from the blessings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am sure this is concerning to Him since he wants us all to return to His presence and has given us the pathway to follow to get us there. I know it is concerning to me as well. I am so glad for the atoning sacrifice of His son, Jesus Christ. Through him, we have hope in our eternal progression IF our faith in our Heavenly Father is strong enough.
Here I go again. Off on a tangent. I will close for now and go read the things I mentioned earlier in this post.
Happy Sunday!!!
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Sunday, June 5, 2016
SEVEN DAYS...MIXED EMOTIONS
Well, here we are with just one week to go before we board a plan headed for SLC. This week has gone so fast, as have the others. In each of our Prayer Meetings last week as I stood to give the training, I mentioned that that would be my last day on that particular shift. I got a little choked up each time I said it. This week we will say goodbye to all the night shift people as we train in their prayer meeting. When I came to Hawaii just a year ago I had no idea I would get so attached to some of the people here. I have so enjoyed what we have been doing here and the special interaction we have had with so many.
A couple weeks ago President and Sister Taala invited us to their home for dinner along with Brother and Sister Fry. They served Hawaiian Haystacks which were really good. I haven't had those for a very long time so I totally enjoyed the evening. We had a nice time just talking-something we don't get to do in the temple very often. Tonight we had a visit from President and sister Nihipali. They brought us a nice gift of a picture of the Laie Temple and a picture of the Chad Hawkins version of the Laie Temple. I don't have either of those pictures so I was thrilled. We have been collecting some Hawaiian pictures to put on our walls at home so these will be nice additions. Tomorrow we are invited to President and Sister Kealoha's home for lunch. I'm sure we will have a great time there also. These people have been so very nice to us and have really appreciated our service. The Fry's are going home the same day as we are so the lunch is for them too.
This week we will be busy packing our suitcases and cleaning out the apartment. It isn't to big so we should be alright. We have had to send some boxes home and still have a few boxes to go I think. Mostly because we have bought some souvenir items. Oh, alright. I have bought a few new articles of clothing but I am leaving some things here too. I have given some of my things to the sister missionaries and have left some temple clothes at the temple for the student workers. Some of our left over food will go to one of the college girls who is a coordinator at the temple, Sister Katie Kelly. I have become pretty close with her and hope we can keep up correspondence at least through FB.
Next Sunday we have been asked to speak in church so that will require some prep time this week. I was hoping we could escape that but not so. Our topic is Fathers, in honor of Father's Day the next week.
Sunday night we have been invited to stay at Keith's house since he is taking us to the airport early the next morning. We will leave about 4:00 AM for our 7:00 flight. We should arrive in SLC about 7:30 PM where all the kids and grandkids will be awaiting our arrival. If all goes well, we will go for ice cream on our way home. I can't wait to see them all.
As for things I learned or was reminded of in church today. Our SS lesson was on the conversion stories of the Sons of Mosiah and Alma the Younger. They were rebellious and speaking out against the church until they were visited by an angel and chastised. Alma the younger was even struck down for a while. After he regained his health he became a great missionary for the gospel of Jesus Christ.The question was asked "when were you converted to the church"? I pondered that. I have been a member all of my life and probably relied on the testimony of my parents and my husband to some extent. I am not the kind to question authority and have always known that the teachings of the church give me a better life. I know that as trials have come to me through the years that I was strengthened through prayer and reading the scriptures. I know that my testimony of the atonement and temples and families has truly been strengthened this past year as I have been away from family serving in the temple most days. So for me, my conversion has been a gradual process-one that could have been challenged because of any number of difficult trials in my life. I am so grateful I have chosen to let the Lord and His son Jesus Christ help me through those times and heal me rather than distance myself from them and let adversity and the adversary win. I know that when the time comes that I have another huge trial or devastating circumstance, I will find myself in the temple to find solace and answers rather than try and figure them out myself.
One thought to go along with this. After Carl died, I found that I needed a crutch to help me get through some pretty tough times. Yes, I prayed and read scriptures and asked questions but sometimes I just needed a diversion. I shopped. And I shopped. Almost to the point of an addiction. I didn't need the things I bought but it made me happy. I have now come to realize that those things were a false sense of security. I really only needed the gospel of Jesus Christ and the comfort I receive from earnest prayer and study to make me happy. I have come to appreciate that so much this year.
Yes, I know this has been long but I had lots to say. I may not get to write again until after we get home but I will continue this blog.
A couple weeks ago President and Sister Taala invited us to their home for dinner along with Brother and Sister Fry. They served Hawaiian Haystacks which were really good. I haven't had those for a very long time so I totally enjoyed the evening. We had a nice time just talking-something we don't get to do in the temple very often. Tonight we had a visit from President and sister Nihipali. They brought us a nice gift of a picture of the Laie Temple and a picture of the Chad Hawkins version of the Laie Temple. I don't have either of those pictures so I was thrilled. We have been collecting some Hawaiian pictures to put on our walls at home so these will be nice additions. Tomorrow we are invited to President and Sister Kealoha's home for lunch. I'm sure we will have a great time there also. These people have been so very nice to us and have really appreciated our service. The Fry's are going home the same day as we are so the lunch is for them too.
This week we will be busy packing our suitcases and cleaning out the apartment. It isn't to big so we should be alright. We have had to send some boxes home and still have a few boxes to go I think. Mostly because we have bought some souvenir items. Oh, alright. I have bought a few new articles of clothing but I am leaving some things here too. I have given some of my things to the sister missionaries and have left some temple clothes at the temple for the student workers. Some of our left over food will go to one of the college girls who is a coordinator at the temple, Sister Katie Kelly. I have become pretty close with her and hope we can keep up correspondence at least through FB.
Next Sunday we have been asked to speak in church so that will require some prep time this week. I was hoping we could escape that but not so. Our topic is Fathers, in honor of Father's Day the next week.
Sunday night we have been invited to stay at Keith's house since he is taking us to the airport early the next morning. We will leave about 4:00 AM for our 7:00 flight. We should arrive in SLC about 7:30 PM where all the kids and grandkids will be awaiting our arrival. If all goes well, we will go for ice cream on our way home. I can't wait to see them all.
As for things I learned or was reminded of in church today. Our SS lesson was on the conversion stories of the Sons of Mosiah and Alma the Younger. They were rebellious and speaking out against the church until they were visited by an angel and chastised. Alma the younger was even struck down for a while. After he regained his health he became a great missionary for the gospel of Jesus Christ.The question was asked "when were you converted to the church"? I pondered that. I have been a member all of my life and probably relied on the testimony of my parents and my husband to some extent. I am not the kind to question authority and have always known that the teachings of the church give me a better life. I know that as trials have come to me through the years that I was strengthened through prayer and reading the scriptures. I know that my testimony of the atonement and temples and families has truly been strengthened this past year as I have been away from family serving in the temple most days. So for me, my conversion has been a gradual process-one that could have been challenged because of any number of difficult trials in my life. I am so grateful I have chosen to let the Lord and His son Jesus Christ help me through those times and heal me rather than distance myself from them and let adversity and the adversary win. I know that when the time comes that I have another huge trial or devastating circumstance, I will find myself in the temple to find solace and answers rather than try and figure them out myself.
One thought to go along with this. After Carl died, I found that I needed a crutch to help me get through some pretty tough times. Yes, I prayed and read scriptures and asked questions but sometimes I just needed a diversion. I shopped. And I shopped. Almost to the point of an addiction. I didn't need the things I bought but it made me happy. I have now come to realize that those things were a false sense of security. I really only needed the gospel of Jesus Christ and the comfort I receive from earnest prayer and study to make me happy. I have come to appreciate that so much this year.
Yes, I know this has been long but I had lots to say. I may not get to write again until after we get home but I will continue this blog.
Monday, May 23, 2016
THREE WEEKS AND COUNTING
Well, three weeks from today, at this very time, we will be preparing to land in Salt Lake City. Where has the time gone? Can that even be possible? I am so glad we decided to serve a mission and that we were called here to serve in the House of the Lord. I have gained so much insight that I didn't have or hadn't thought about before serving full time in the temple. I have been able to rub shoulders with some awesome people of great spiritual strength. I have also be here as young sisters in the gospel have been so excited to serve in the temple over and above their busy schedules at the University here. Some of these sisters are recent converts themselves but have such a love for the gospel and the temple. My testimony has grown right along with theirs. The mission has been hard at times, even most of the time but it is another witness to me that I can do hard things and that I have chosen the harder right among the other things that I could have been doing.
Yesterday in Sacrament Meeting, we were privileged to have Elder and Sister Swinton speak to us. They are serving as the directors of the Visitors Center here. She has written several books for the church and was asked, while they were serving as mission president in the London South Mission, to write President Monson's biography.
I love her stories of him and the testimony she has of him being the Prophet for our day.
She asked us to think about promptings you have had to act on someone else's behalf. I know that I have had some of those promptings and have not acted on them a few times and feel very bad about that now. President Monson often speaks of listening to that quiet prompting but Sister Swinton told us that he was not always good at listening. One story involved him being torn between doing what the spirit told him and visiting a man in the hospital or staying in a stake meeting that required him to sit on the stand. He knew he would draw attention to himself and possibly offend the Stake President so he stayed in the meeting. After, he hurriedly made his way to the hospital only to find that the elderly man had been calling for President Monson (then a bishop). The man passed away minutes before President Monson's arrival. He made a commitment to himself to never ignore the spirit again. Today, he is a master at listening to those small promptings. Again sister Swinton asked, "How are you doing?" When we follow the prompting and act, we are on the Lord's errand. "Strive to be the one that the Lord knows He can call upon to do His work." What a powerful statement. I really have a long ways to go with this but I know that if I am prompted to do something, I will do my best to act on it.
Elder Swinton talked about the beauty of the Christus that he has the blessing to look at each day. I will admit that when we walk past the visitors center, I look at it in awe too. He made the comment that our whole purpose of our very life is to become like Christ. Wow! Do I have a ways to go.
Another interesting concept he talked about was the grand council in Heaven. We know that Christ told God when asked who could come to earth and carry out His plan, "Send me and the Glory be thine." Do you thinK that each one of us answered in that enthusiastic way? When I was asked who could come to earth and experience a certain set of trials, church callings, triumphs, etc., did I say "Send me, and the glory be thine."? I hope so. I also hope I will continue to accept those things that are in store for me whether I think I asked for them or not. The way we handle those experiences in this earthly life will determine how much like our our Savior, Jesus Christ we will become.
Well, I had better close for this week. Only two more posts will come having to do with our mission but I have become so accustomed to writing a few things each week for my benefit and those few members of my family that follow this blog, I will probably still write. I know this will be a good resource for me to look back on and reflect how I am doing in becoming more like Christ.
Yesterday in Sacrament Meeting, we were privileged to have Elder and Sister Swinton speak to us. They are serving as the directors of the Visitors Center here. She has written several books for the church and was asked, while they were serving as mission president in the London South Mission, to write President Monson's biography.
I love her stories of him and the testimony she has of him being the Prophet for our day.
She asked us to think about promptings you have had to act on someone else's behalf. I know that I have had some of those promptings and have not acted on them a few times and feel very bad about that now. President Monson often speaks of listening to that quiet prompting but Sister Swinton told us that he was not always good at listening. One story involved him being torn between doing what the spirit told him and visiting a man in the hospital or staying in a stake meeting that required him to sit on the stand. He knew he would draw attention to himself and possibly offend the Stake President so he stayed in the meeting. After, he hurriedly made his way to the hospital only to find that the elderly man had been calling for President Monson (then a bishop). The man passed away minutes before President Monson's arrival. He made a commitment to himself to never ignore the spirit again. Today, he is a master at listening to those small promptings. Again sister Swinton asked, "How are you doing?" When we follow the prompting and act, we are on the Lord's errand. "Strive to be the one that the Lord knows He can call upon to do His work." What a powerful statement. I really have a long ways to go with this but I know that if I am prompted to do something, I will do my best to act on it.
Elder Swinton talked about the beauty of the Christus that he has the blessing to look at each day. I will admit that when we walk past the visitors center, I look at it in awe too. He made the comment that our whole purpose of our very life is to become like Christ. Wow! Do I have a ways to go.
Another interesting concept he talked about was the grand council in Heaven. We know that Christ told God when asked who could come to earth and carry out His plan, "Send me and the Glory be thine." Do you thinK that each one of us answered in that enthusiastic way? When I was asked who could come to earth and experience a certain set of trials, church callings, triumphs, etc., did I say "Send me, and the glory be thine."? I hope so. I also hope I will continue to accept those things that are in store for me whether I think I asked for them or not. The way we handle those experiences in this earthly life will determine how much like our our Savior, Jesus Christ we will become.
Well, I had better close for this week. Only two more posts will come having to do with our mission but I have become so accustomed to writing a few things each week for my benefit and those few members of my family that follow this blog, I will probably still write. I know this will be a good resource for me to look back on and reflect how I am doing in becoming more like Christ.
Monday, May 16, 2016
FOUR MORE WEEKS! EEK!
Well, here I am. Just four weeks left. I commented to Larry yesterday that at the beginning of the week it seems like it will be long but by the end of the week we are wondering where that time went. I think I am wondering where this last six months went.
I love the days I spend in the temple. There is just a special spirit there but most days I am so busy that I fail to take time to bask in that spirit felt in the temple. Our temple Matron, Sister Kealoha always reminds us that we need to take time to minister to ourselves as we serve diligently in the temple. For me that means a few minutes of peace in the Celestial Room with my focus on what my Heavenly Father has done for me and the blessings I have received throughout my life. I always take a little time to reflect on my eternal companion and what he is doing on the other side of the veil and if he is happy with the things I am doing in my life now as I prepare to someday meet him there. (Although, I hope that is not for many years.)
Each Sunday I feel like I have a Spiritual Feast. Today I read the Sunday School lesson complete with five chapters in Mosiah. The main focus on the lesson was that we, like the people of the Book of Mormon, have a living prophet who receives revelation from God concerning the members of the church. I truly believe that Heavenly Father watches out for us as a people and gives revelation that will help the world in times of need. Some of those things mentioned were: the beginning of Family Home Evening and how it helps families endure tough times, getting out of and staying out of debt, the changes in missionary service i.e age, method of presenting discussions, etc. I know that each general conference, the things we learn and are reminded of come from revelation and are given to improve our lives and help with our understanding of gospel principles.
Our Relief Society lesson was on the blessings that come from paying tithing. I have always done so with no questions asked but I remember one particular time when Carl and I went to tithing settlement several years ago. We were building a new home, Ryan was on his mission so we were paying for that and tithing, I was teaching part time but also had gone back to school and was paying tuition. When we looked at our income versus the amount paid out for tithing and the mission we were amazed at how much of our income that was yet we were still able to buy the things we needed for our family and the new home. I truly have a testimony of tithing.
Tonight we attended the annual Temple Devotional. Larry was asked to bear his testimony and did a very nice job expressing our gratefulness for the opportunity to serve this mission in the Laie Temple. He also told of a couple of spiritual experiences he has had while in the temple.
We were reminded by President Nihipali that it doesn't matter how far away the temple is from where you live but how far away you are from the temple. I really liked that analogy. We need to attend the temple regularly in order to gain that knowledge and and faith that are required of us by God.
Sister Kealoha spoke of the fact that in the 1000 years of the millennium, we will be those people working in the temples of the world doing the work for all who will accept the gospel on the other side of the veil.
President Kealoha talked of the sacrifice that we are all making to serve in the temple each week. He reiterated the fact that the Lord expects us to sacrifice in order to receive the blessings of exaltation. We have to sacrifice something good for something better. That happens through temple service.
Many of the people there tonight expressed their sadness that we are leaving soon. It is nice to be told that because it means we must have done what we were supposed to do here in a pleasant and friendly way. We will miss these people as well.
On to another week.....
I love the days I spend in the temple. There is just a special spirit there but most days I am so busy that I fail to take time to bask in that spirit felt in the temple. Our temple Matron, Sister Kealoha always reminds us that we need to take time to minister to ourselves as we serve diligently in the temple. For me that means a few minutes of peace in the Celestial Room with my focus on what my Heavenly Father has done for me and the blessings I have received throughout my life. I always take a little time to reflect on my eternal companion and what he is doing on the other side of the veil and if he is happy with the things I am doing in my life now as I prepare to someday meet him there. (Although, I hope that is not for many years.)
Each Sunday I feel like I have a Spiritual Feast. Today I read the Sunday School lesson complete with five chapters in Mosiah. The main focus on the lesson was that we, like the people of the Book of Mormon, have a living prophet who receives revelation from God concerning the members of the church. I truly believe that Heavenly Father watches out for us as a people and gives revelation that will help the world in times of need. Some of those things mentioned were: the beginning of Family Home Evening and how it helps families endure tough times, getting out of and staying out of debt, the changes in missionary service i.e age, method of presenting discussions, etc. I know that each general conference, the things we learn and are reminded of come from revelation and are given to improve our lives and help with our understanding of gospel principles.
Our Relief Society lesson was on the blessings that come from paying tithing. I have always done so with no questions asked but I remember one particular time when Carl and I went to tithing settlement several years ago. We were building a new home, Ryan was on his mission so we were paying for that and tithing, I was teaching part time but also had gone back to school and was paying tuition. When we looked at our income versus the amount paid out for tithing and the mission we were amazed at how much of our income that was yet we were still able to buy the things we needed for our family and the new home. I truly have a testimony of tithing.
Tonight we attended the annual Temple Devotional. Larry was asked to bear his testimony and did a very nice job expressing our gratefulness for the opportunity to serve this mission in the Laie Temple. He also told of a couple of spiritual experiences he has had while in the temple.
We were reminded by President Nihipali that it doesn't matter how far away the temple is from where you live but how far away you are from the temple. I really liked that analogy. We need to attend the temple regularly in order to gain that knowledge and and faith that are required of us by God.
Sister Kealoha spoke of the fact that in the 1000 years of the millennium, we will be those people working in the temples of the world doing the work for all who will accept the gospel on the other side of the veil.
President Kealoha talked of the sacrifice that we are all making to serve in the temple each week. He reiterated the fact that the Lord expects us to sacrifice in order to receive the blessings of exaltation. We have to sacrifice something good for something better. That happens through temple service.
Many of the people there tonight expressed their sadness that we are leaving soon. It is nice to be told that because it means we must have done what we were supposed to do here in a pleasant and friendly way. We will miss these people as well.
On to another week.....
Sunday, May 8, 2016
MOTHERS DAY 2016
Here is another week come and gone. We are down to only five weeks left now. I think I mentioned last week that I am getting maybe a bit nervous to leave here. Our daily schedules have been pretty much planned out for us with not much to interfere. Next month I will be going back to reality. Back to the day to day runnings of a house, children (though they are married and on their own) and grandchildren. Yes, I am ready for all of that again and will embrace it as I have before but it still makes me a bit nervous that I will be responsible for what I do with my time and how my decisions fit into my quest for eternal salvation.
One of my dear friends from the temple, Sister Feinga, made a comment last week that I have given much thought to. Some of the sweet sister missionaries were leaving the temple and after we gave them hugs and told them to have a nice day, Sister Feinga said "Can we always be like the missionaries, just one thing on our mind." I have thought about that in a few different aspects of life. Of course, because of what we are doing right now, the temple comes to mind. May we ever attend the temple with just one thing on our mind. Leave all the "stuff" outside while in the temple- with an eye single to the glory of God and what he wants us to do with our life. Remember always that the temple is God's university where He will instruct us on all things pertaining to our salvation. It is our job to ask for that instruction and incorporate it into our lives.
Because today is Mother's Day, I can also relate the comment from Sister Feinga to that. Can we always be the best mom we can be. We have been given stewardship over these children while they and we are here on earth. We are to teach them in ways of righteousness and raise them to be upstanding adults so that they can contribute positively here on earth and be ready to return to our Heavenly Father and to our eternal families when that day comes for each of us.
Today in church, a new bishop was announced. In speaking to the congregation, he said that he couldn't possible do what he has been asked to do with out relying on the Lord. I think that is true in so many areas of life. I don't think I could have come on this mission without the reassurance that Heavenly Father would help me every step of the way. And He has. I couldn't have done Motherhood without relying on my Heavenly Father to help me teach them and love my children unconditionally.
The former Bishop's wife, Julie Ah You, bore her testimony and made the comment that one of her children had asked, "What if there is no heaven like we have been taught?" She testified that she knew that there was a heaven and we could all be with Heavenly Father again if we were obedient, but IF there isn't, we have not been hurt by living the gospel as Christ has given it to us. And we have hurt no one by living the principles and ordinances of the gospel as outlined by our Heavenly Father. We are living good lives and doing good things and believing and hoping for better things in the hereafter. That is our goal.
One last comment for today. Our Relief Society Lesson was about spreading the gospel around the world--Missionary work. I am so glad I decided it was ok to leave my family and friends for a year and serve this mission. I quote from the lesson "To satisfy the new demands being made upon us in this great missionary work of the last days, perhaps some of us (particularly the older generation whose families are raised) need to take stock to determine whether "walls" that we have built in our own minds need to come down. For example, how about the "comfort wall" that seems to prevent many prevent many couples and singles from going on a mission? How about the "financial wall" of debt that interferes with some members' ability to go, or the "grandchildren" wall," or the "health wall" or the "lack of self confidence wall" or the "transgression wall," or the walls of fear, doubt, or complacency? does anyone really doubt for a minute that with the help of the Lord he or she could bring those walls crashing down?" A couple of those "walls" were very real to me before we decided to put our papers in. So glad they came down.
Until next week.............
Monday, April 18, 2016
TWO MONTHS...BUT WHO'S COUNTING?
Here we are. Ten months into our mission with just two months to go. And the time is going so fast now. I think it is because we are in the temple nearly every day and we have no time to have to fill our time. This month we are on the late shift which starts at 1:00 pm and ends at 8:00 pm. Rarely do we leave any earlier than that. There is always a need for someone to be trained or an opportunity to help when shifts are short of workers. I have mentioned before how I love training and learning a little about people.
This week I helped train two young ladies who are attending BYUH. Both are from the mainland-one from Minnesota and one from Blackfoot, ID. I told her I had cousins who live in Blackfoot. She knows them! I am always so amazed at how small this world really is in the whole scheme of things.
Another young lady I worked with this week is Sister Bennion from Boise, ID. What a delightful young woman. In talking to her, I found that she is about to go on a mission. Her parents came over to HI for Easter and to be here when her mission call was opened. While they were here, she came to the temple to receive her endowment. She then talked to her bishop about serving in the temple and she is doing that now- before she serves her mission. What great training that is for these young people. I know her temple service will be a testimony of eternal families and the blessings of temple service throughout her life.
I have heard from many of the very busy students who serve in the temple that they will make time to serve because they need the blessings in their lives as far as schooling and dating and eventual marriage. Oh how I wish I had had that kind of vision when I was their age. I wish I had been more instrumental in instilling that love of temple work to my children.
Larry and I were discussing the fact that in the early days of our church the saints were asked to gather together where the temples were. Now days, saints are asked to gather in their own countries as temples are dotting the earth. Each and every conference there are new temples announced where faithful saints and growth in the church require it so as to save people from traveling such long distances to do the Lord's work.
Today our stake presidency was released and a new presidency called for the Laie North Stake. Our bishop, Kingsley Ah You is the new President. He is an awesome leader and will do great things while in this calling. Our visiting Authorities were Elder Sitati from the Seventy and Elder Aunu, an Area Seventy. Both of them spoke in our Saturday night session as well as today leaving us with wonderful advice and counsel.
In comments outside of what is happening here in Laie, Spencer received his Mission Call to Portugal. Not sure if I mentioned this in my last post but he received it just before they all came here to visit. He leaves August 3 and from what we have heard from home, we will be reporting our mission the same day as he has his farewell. I am so excited for him to feel the spirit of missionary work though his mission will be vastly different than ours. What an honor it is to be his grandmother. He is an extraordinary young man. I know his grandpa Bruce is SO proud of him and how he serves others.
This week I helped train two young ladies who are attending BYUH. Both are from the mainland-one from Minnesota and one from Blackfoot, ID. I told her I had cousins who live in Blackfoot. She knows them! I am always so amazed at how small this world really is in the whole scheme of things.
Another young lady I worked with this week is Sister Bennion from Boise, ID. What a delightful young woman. In talking to her, I found that she is about to go on a mission. Her parents came over to HI for Easter and to be here when her mission call was opened. While they were here, she came to the temple to receive her endowment. She then talked to her bishop about serving in the temple and she is doing that now- before she serves her mission. What great training that is for these young people. I know her temple service will be a testimony of eternal families and the blessings of temple service throughout her life.
I have heard from many of the very busy students who serve in the temple that they will make time to serve because they need the blessings in their lives as far as schooling and dating and eventual marriage. Oh how I wish I had had that kind of vision when I was their age. I wish I had been more instrumental in instilling that love of temple work to my children.
Larry and I were discussing the fact that in the early days of our church the saints were asked to gather together where the temples were. Now days, saints are asked to gather in their own countries as temples are dotting the earth. Each and every conference there are new temples announced where faithful saints and growth in the church require it so as to save people from traveling such long distances to do the Lord's work.
Today our stake presidency was released and a new presidency called for the Laie North Stake. Our bishop, Kingsley Ah You is the new President. He is an awesome leader and will do great things while in this calling. Our visiting Authorities were Elder Sitati from the Seventy and Elder Aunu, an Area Seventy. Both of them spoke in our Saturday night session as well as today leaving us with wonderful advice and counsel.
In comments outside of what is happening here in Laie, Spencer received his Mission Call to Portugal. Not sure if I mentioned this in my last post but he received it just before they all came here to visit. He leaves August 3 and from what we have heard from home, we will be reporting our mission the same day as he has his farewell. I am so excited for him to feel the spirit of missionary work though his mission will be vastly different than ours. What an honor it is to be his grandmother. He is an extraordinary young man. I know his grandpa Bruce is SO proud of him and how he serves others.
Friday, April 8, 2016
GRATEFUL FOR FAMILIES AND FUN!
Uh Oh!! I was so busy this past week that I totally forgot to make this post. So here it is. I was so lucky to have two of my daughters, Stacie and Keri and their families come to Hawaii to visit us and "play". And play we did.
They came on March 31 so we went to Keri's rental on the point for pizza and to talk for a while. They were quite tired after their day of travel so we left and they went to bed. The next day we went to the temple to work and they played. We went to the beach later and then to North Shore Taco to eat. On Saturday we all (minus Steve due to back surgery) went to ClimbWorks zipline. What a HOOT! I really enjoyed it much to my surprise. There were eight ziplines of varying distances to conquer. I didn't ever feel unsafe. The hardest part was when we had to pull ourselves up from one level to another to catch the next zipline. I found out that my core strength is next to nothing right now. I was able to get about half way and had to be pulled up the rest of the way. What a WHIMP I felt like! We got some great pictures of the whole experience and the kids and grandkids won't stop talking about it.
It was conference weekend so on Sunday we listened to conference and then I prepared dinner for everyone and we ate at Keith's house since he has more room than we do. Ham, rolls, potato Salad, chips and fresh veggies and quinoa salad were prepared by Debra.
Monday we went to Haleiwa with Stacie's family then to Turtle bay beach with all.
Tuesday those with temple recommends (all but Kaydee, Maelynn and Elli) came to the temple. It was great having them there and letting those I work with know they were my kids/grandkids there doing baptisms and initiatory. The little girls stayed at our apartment and wrote little notes to us and scattered them around the apartment. How fun it was to come home and find them all over. Then we went to Polynesian Cultural Center for the rest of the day. I know they all enjoyed that as well.
All good things must come to an end and so they all left to go back home early Thursday morning. Lots of pictures hit Instagram and Facebook!
I mentioned that it was conference weekend last week. I really love that we get to hear so many speakers with so many different topics having to do with the gospel and our eternal salvation. I will be reporting on some of these talks in future blogs but for now suffice it to say that my testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost has been strengthened so much through the words I was able to hear and through the testimonies that were borne. I love this church with all my might and am so proud to be serving my God in the capacity of a temple missionary at this time and season of my life. I have always loved the temple and the peace and calmness that I feel there but I haven't always been as dedicated to temple attendance as I am now. I often wonder why I didn't indulge myself in the blessings of the temple on more on my own rather than only going when it was a scheduled temple night. I have some repenting to do. I love the principles of the gospel that are taught in the temple and know that each time we attend, there is something new to be learned if we just open our hearts and minds to it and ask for guidance before attending the temple.
As a last little note in this post. We are down to about 9 weeks more here in Laie. We got our travel plans home from the church missionary department and will be leaving June 13. I am already torn about leaving. It will be nice to get back to our normal life and do some things we are planning but I will miss helping people learn about the temple, the friendships I have made while here and having that feeling of being a missionary and being obedient to my Father in Heaven. I'm sure it will be an interesting adjustment.
Oh, and Spencer got his mission call and will be serving in Porto, Portugal mission, leaving August 3. I am so excited for him. He is very excited to and looking forward to serving a mission. Proud of this great young man and the potential that I see in him.
They came on March 31 so we went to Keri's rental on the point for pizza and to talk for a while. They were quite tired after their day of travel so we left and they went to bed. The next day we went to the temple to work and they played. We went to the beach later and then to North Shore Taco to eat. On Saturday we all (minus Steve due to back surgery) went to ClimbWorks zipline. What a HOOT! I really enjoyed it much to my surprise. There were eight ziplines of varying distances to conquer. I didn't ever feel unsafe. The hardest part was when we had to pull ourselves up from one level to another to catch the next zipline. I found out that my core strength is next to nothing right now. I was able to get about half way and had to be pulled up the rest of the way. What a WHIMP I felt like! We got some great pictures of the whole experience and the kids and grandkids won't stop talking about it.
It was conference weekend so on Sunday we listened to conference and then I prepared dinner for everyone and we ate at Keith's house since he has more room than we do. Ham, rolls, potato Salad, chips and fresh veggies and quinoa salad were prepared by Debra.
Monday we went to Haleiwa with Stacie's family then to Turtle bay beach with all.
Tuesday those with temple recommends (all but Kaydee, Maelynn and Elli) came to the temple. It was great having them there and letting those I work with know they were my kids/grandkids there doing baptisms and initiatory. The little girls stayed at our apartment and wrote little notes to us and scattered them around the apartment. How fun it was to come home and find them all over. Then we went to Polynesian Cultural Center for the rest of the day. I know they all enjoyed that as well.
All good things must come to an end and so they all left to go back home early Thursday morning. Lots of pictures hit Instagram and Facebook!
I mentioned that it was conference weekend last week. I really love that we get to hear so many speakers with so many different topics having to do with the gospel and our eternal salvation. I will be reporting on some of these talks in future blogs but for now suffice it to say that my testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and the Holy Ghost has been strengthened so much through the words I was able to hear and through the testimonies that were borne. I love this church with all my might and am so proud to be serving my God in the capacity of a temple missionary at this time and season of my life. I have always loved the temple and the peace and calmness that I feel there but I haven't always been as dedicated to temple attendance as I am now. I often wonder why I didn't indulge myself in the blessings of the temple on more on my own rather than only going when it was a scheduled temple night. I have some repenting to do. I love the principles of the gospel that are taught in the temple and know that each time we attend, there is something new to be learned if we just open our hearts and minds to it and ask for guidance before attending the temple.
As a last little note in this post. We are down to about 9 weeks more here in Laie. We got our travel plans home from the church missionary department and will be leaving June 13. I am already torn about leaving. It will be nice to get back to our normal life and do some things we are planning but I will miss helping people learn about the temple, the friendships I have made while here and having that feeling of being a missionary and being obedient to my Father in Heaven. I'm sure it will be an interesting adjustment.
Oh, and Spencer got his mission call and will be serving in Porto, Portugal mission, leaving August 3. I am so excited for him. He is very excited to and looking forward to serving a mission. Proud of this great young man and the potential that I see in him.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
EASTER SUNDAY: HE LIVES, HE LIVES WHO ONCE WAS DEAD...
Today is Easter Sunday. I have been so filled with the love of my Savior this week as I have seen so many Face Book and and Instagram posts having to do with our Savior's resurrection and atonement. I do not have time or space to copy and paste everything I have seen and read this week but one that stood out to me today was a post by my daughter, Stacie. There is a picture of Christ that accompanies this quote from Elder Jeffery R. Holland and it says,
"One of the great consolations of this Easter season is that because Jesus walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone, we do not have to do so. His solitary journey brought great company for our little version of that path—the merciful care of our Father in Heaven, the unfailing companionship of this Beloved Son, the consummate gift of the Holy Ghost, angels in heaven, family members on both sides of the veil, prophets and apostles, teachers, leaders, friends. All of these and more have been given as companions for our mortal journey because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the Restoration of His gospel. Trumpeted from the summit of Calvary is the truth that we will never be left alone nor unaided, even if sometimes we may feel that we are. Truly the Redeemer of us all said: “I will not leave you comfortless: [My Father and] I will come to you [and abide with you]."
- Jeffrey R. Holland
- I can't even imagine what it would be like to not have a belief system in life after death. I can't imagine the intensity of the pain that we would feel if Christ hadn't taken upon himself the burdens of our sins, our grief, our trials and our mistakes in life. I have experience some of those things on my journey through the first 65 years of my life and am so grateful I didn't have to do it alone. I always know that my Heavenly Father and His Son love me for who I am. They want me to return to them at the end of my days a better person for the trials and sorrows that I have endured. They want me to learn all I can out their Gospel and teach others along the way so that we can all be present together in families in the eternities.
Today in church we were privileged to hear from a newly returned missionary-Elder Fiso. He served in San Diego. His talk was very touching in how to related the atonement to some of his mission experiences. One comment he made has stayed with me all day. He said, "I know that miracles and blessings happened within my family because I was in the service of the Lord, doing His work." Then he said that he could see the miracle in his own growth from his experiences. As I thought about his first statement I reflected on our mission here and how I hope and pray that through my service here in Hawaii in the temple each day, I have helped miracles happen and been partially responsible for blessings being poured down upon my family members and close friends. I know that I have seen miracles and blessings within myself as I have been here for the past 9 1/2 months. I do have a stronger testimony of the gospel, of temples, of the work that we are doing for those deceased individuals who will need that work done for them in order to be in the presence of our Heavenly Father.
The closing song in Sacrament meeting was "I Stand All Amazed". I have loved this song since I was a teenager. I still get tears in my eyes when I sing it.
I Stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me,
confused at the grace that so fully he proffers me.
I tremble to know that for me he was crucified,
That for me a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.
I marvel that he would descend from his throne divine
to rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as mine.
That he should extend his great love unto such as I,
Sufficient to own, to redeem, and to justify.
I think of his hands pierced and bleeding to pay the debt,
Such mercy, such love and devotion can I forget?
No, no, I will praise and adore at the mercy seat,
Until at the glorified throne I kneel at his feet.
Oh, it is wonderful that he should care for me enough to die for me.
Oh, it is wonderful, wonderful to me.
This afternoon we were invited to Keith's house for dinner with he and Deb and two of Larry's and Keith's cousins and (Lynn and Jeff Shultz and Cindy). We had a good time chatting and the Cousins all had a good time reminiscing old times. Hard to believe that so many years have passed for our generation. Those times as children were so wonderful and good. No worries, no stresses of life... All of our basic needs were met by our parents. Now all of our parents have departed this earthly existence.
One parting thing to record tonight. Spencer is supposed to receive his mission call tomorrow, at least we are hoping. We know it is in the mail now. I can't wait to see where the Lord calls him and what his experiences will be. This is the week also that the Fidler and Boyle families will arrive here in Hawaii. They are all pretty excited as am I. It seems like forever since I have seen any of my children or grandchildren. We will be going home in June so I will get to give ALL of them a great big hug! Can't wait!
Monday, March 21, 2016
Happy Anniversary to Us...Eight Years- and more to come
Well, another week has passed. It just seems like time is racing by. We started the morning shift at the temple this week and will do that for four weeks. I don't love getting up at 5 a.m. but I do like getting finished while it is still light and we have time to do things after we are finished. Our week was filled with training new workers as we have been called to do, training Ordinance Workers in our Prayer meetings and helping with any weddings that may be happening. I really the variety of things we get to do. Like the scripture says, "All these things shall give [me] experience"...
Tomorrow (March 21) is my and Larry's eighth anniversary. Again, I am not sure where this last eight years have gone. We have been able to so do many things and travel quite a bit for which I am very thankful. When we got married, he was still living in Las Vegas and working there so I moved there with him for about two and a half years. I made many trips between there and Ogden and back to see children and fulfill a job commitment with Weber School District to mentor new teachers. When he retired, he sold his house and we moved back to my house in Pleasant View. Soon after that I was called as Relief Society president in our ward. We had planned to buy a home in St. George so put that on hold for about a year. We still only use that home as a get away home for the most part. Since we got married, we have traveled to Israel, Turkey and Greece; taken a British Isles Cruise, Mediterranean Cruise, Alaskan Cruise, a Baja Cruise and a Carribean with my family; a trip to Disney World, Disneyland two times, two trips to Oklahoma, South Dakota, Nauvoo and Chicago, Monterrey CA, San Diego a couple of times, China for a dental/humanitarian endeavor, Mesa and Sedona Arizona, to many trips between Ogden and Las Vegas to count, at least three trips to Hawaii and of course our mission here, and a few camping trips. We have another cruise scheduled for Panama this fall. I feel so very fortunate that we are able to travel so much and hope that through the next many years, I will be able to continue that trend. My patriarchal blessing says I will have the privilege of travel and that I will have the opportunity to speak about my religion. I know that as I travel, I have an obligation to Heavenly Father to help build His kingdom through example, conversation and being prepared to answer questions. We were able to do that to a degree on some of the cruises and even in China when our tour guides didn't know anything about our religion but were curious about why we didn't drink coffee or tea.
The death of Carl was certainly a rough time in my life but I have been so blessed to have Larry in my life for the last nine and a half years (eighteen months of it was dating). I love him and the joy he has brought back into my life. I know he feels that same way about me as he tells me this almost daily. So great to be appreciated! I also know that when the time comes for us to pass beyond the veil and meet those loved ones who have already passed, we will still be great friends even though we have eternal companions waiting for us.
Today in Relief Society we journeyed to the Visitor's Center to watch the video called "To This End Was I Born." It is a very moving video of Christ's last few days spent in Gethsemane, the last supper, and of course the events leading to His crucifixion and resurrection. I have seen it before but each time I see it, I gain a new appreciation for Christ and the example He set for us and me in particular. I can't even imagine the pain and suffering, and all for the benefit of mankind in helping us to return to our Father, THROUGH OUR OBEDIENCE to the laws of God. I am sure I still have much work to do in this life to be worthy of this great blessing but I hope I am at least moving forward.
Well, it is late so I think I will close for tonight. More next Sunday.
Tomorrow (March 21) is my and Larry's eighth anniversary. Again, I am not sure where this last eight years have gone. We have been able to so do many things and travel quite a bit for which I am very thankful. When we got married, he was still living in Las Vegas and working there so I moved there with him for about two and a half years. I made many trips between there and Ogden and back to see children and fulfill a job commitment with Weber School District to mentor new teachers. When he retired, he sold his house and we moved back to my house in Pleasant View. Soon after that I was called as Relief Society president in our ward. We had planned to buy a home in St. George so put that on hold for about a year. We still only use that home as a get away home for the most part. Since we got married, we have traveled to Israel, Turkey and Greece; taken a British Isles Cruise, Mediterranean Cruise, Alaskan Cruise, a Baja Cruise and a Carribean with my family; a trip to Disney World, Disneyland two times, two trips to Oklahoma, South Dakota, Nauvoo and Chicago, Monterrey CA, San Diego a couple of times, China for a dental/humanitarian endeavor, Mesa and Sedona Arizona, to many trips between Ogden and Las Vegas to count, at least three trips to Hawaii and of course our mission here, and a few camping trips. We have another cruise scheduled for Panama this fall. I feel so very fortunate that we are able to travel so much and hope that through the next many years, I will be able to continue that trend. My patriarchal blessing says I will have the privilege of travel and that I will have the opportunity to speak about my religion. I know that as I travel, I have an obligation to Heavenly Father to help build His kingdom through example, conversation and being prepared to answer questions. We were able to do that to a degree on some of the cruises and even in China when our tour guides didn't know anything about our religion but were curious about why we didn't drink coffee or tea.
The death of Carl was certainly a rough time in my life but I have been so blessed to have Larry in my life for the last nine and a half years (eighteen months of it was dating). I love him and the joy he has brought back into my life. I know he feels that same way about me as he tells me this almost daily. So great to be appreciated! I also know that when the time comes for us to pass beyond the veil and meet those loved ones who have already passed, we will still be great friends even though we have eternal companions waiting for us.
Today in Relief Society we journeyed to the Visitor's Center to watch the video called "To This End Was I Born." It is a very moving video of Christ's last few days spent in Gethsemane, the last supper, and of course the events leading to His crucifixion and resurrection. I have seen it before but each time I see it, I gain a new appreciation for Christ and the example He set for us and me in particular. I can't even imagine the pain and suffering, and all for the benefit of mankind in helping us to return to our Father, THROUGH OUR OBEDIENCE to the laws of God. I am sure I still have much work to do in this life to be worthy of this great blessing but I hope I am at least moving forward.
Well, it is late so I think I will close for tonight. More next Sunday.
Monday, March 14, 2016
ONLY THREE TO GO...
Well, it isn't really official yet since we haven't heard from the church, but we only have three months left of our mission now. We have heard from the couple who are taking our place and they will be here June 16 and we have to be out of our apartment before they get here so I suspect that our release date will be June 13. The time we have spent here really has gone by very fast. There were times when we first got here that June 2016 seemed so far away but with each month being busier and busier, I can't believe we only have three months left. I know I will miss this little piece of Heaven with the warm weather, a slower life style, and especially the wonderful people I have met.
I have mentioned in other posts how the wonderful sisters in the temple (especially the young girls) have inspired me with their stories of conversion and their strong testimonies, and a desire to serve in the temple. Tonight we had the opportunity to attend a musical fireside at the Visitors Center put on by the sister missionaries. What talent these sweet young girls have and they each have such a terrific testimony of our Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ. Each girl is just beautiful inside and out. I was so impressed with the musical numbers that they had prepared to express the love our Savior has for each of us. One of the sister missionaries bore testimony about how much fuller our lives are when we are in the service of our God. She is SO right! As I pondered her words, tears came to my eyes in recognition of how much fuller my life is and has been while serving here in the temple.
I have five wonderful children and their spouses. I am blessed to have 14 terrific grandchildren, each with their individual personality and set of talents. I have an eternal marriage with my companion waiting on the other side of the veil for me. I have a wonderful husband to spend the rest of my earthly life with. I have had a career that I loved (most days) and have been in good health. So as you can see, I have been truly blessed and my life has been very full with all of this. But I know that I feel more complete with the time that we spend in the temple in the service of Heavenly Father. I also know that I will always want to be in the service of God because He has been so good to me.
Today on the program in Sacrament meeting I saw the scripture for March. D&C 1:38 says, "What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken...whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same." I am sure it is there to remind us of the upcoming general conference. I am always excited to see and hear the first Presidency, General Authorities and Auxiliary leaders as they speak to us the messages that Heavenly Father wants us to hear and that we need to hear. As long as I can remember, I have been amazed at how a talk, or several talks were given with me in mind. I take that as a testimony that I am loved by my Heavenly Father and my Savior. They know (through inspiration) what I need to hear and what will help me through my particular trials--sometimes even before I know I am going through the trial. Anyway, I am really excited to hear their words of wisdom in three weeks.
That week is also the week that some of my family will be here. Stacie, Steve and family and Keri, Brett and family will be here on March 31. So excited to see them and show them my piece of heaven for the time being. I am sure they will all enjoy their time here as much as I will having them here. They have some fun things planned and we will join them as much as possible. Our early morning temple schedule this month will help facilitate that since we will be off by 1:00 pm each day with several hours to play after that.
I think I will stop with that tonight. Other things on my mind will have to wait for another blog.
I have mentioned in other posts how the wonderful sisters in the temple (especially the young girls) have inspired me with their stories of conversion and their strong testimonies, and a desire to serve in the temple. Tonight we had the opportunity to attend a musical fireside at the Visitors Center put on by the sister missionaries. What talent these sweet young girls have and they each have such a terrific testimony of our Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ. Each girl is just beautiful inside and out. I was so impressed with the musical numbers that they had prepared to express the love our Savior has for each of us. One of the sister missionaries bore testimony about how much fuller our lives are when we are in the service of our God. She is SO right! As I pondered her words, tears came to my eyes in recognition of how much fuller my life is and has been while serving here in the temple.
I have five wonderful children and their spouses. I am blessed to have 14 terrific grandchildren, each with their individual personality and set of talents. I have an eternal marriage with my companion waiting on the other side of the veil for me. I have a wonderful husband to spend the rest of my earthly life with. I have had a career that I loved (most days) and have been in good health. So as you can see, I have been truly blessed and my life has been very full with all of this. But I know that I feel more complete with the time that we spend in the temple in the service of Heavenly Father. I also know that I will always want to be in the service of God because He has been so good to me.
Today on the program in Sacrament meeting I saw the scripture for March. D&C 1:38 says, "What I the Lord have spoken, I have spoken...whether by mine own voice or by the voice of my servants, it is the same." I am sure it is there to remind us of the upcoming general conference. I am always excited to see and hear the first Presidency, General Authorities and Auxiliary leaders as they speak to us the messages that Heavenly Father wants us to hear and that we need to hear. As long as I can remember, I have been amazed at how a talk, or several talks were given with me in mind. I take that as a testimony that I am loved by my Heavenly Father and my Savior. They know (through inspiration) what I need to hear and what will help me through my particular trials--sometimes even before I know I am going through the trial. Anyway, I am really excited to hear their words of wisdom in three weeks.
That week is also the week that some of my family will be here. Stacie, Steve and family and Keri, Brett and family will be here on March 31. So excited to see them and show them my piece of heaven for the time being. I am sure they will all enjoy their time here as much as I will having them here. They have some fun things planned and we will join them as much as possible. Our early morning temple schedule this month will help facilitate that since we will be off by 1:00 pm each day with several hours to play after that.
I think I will stop with that tonight. Other things on my mind will have to wait for another blog.
Sunday, March 6, 2016
"BUT IF NOT..."
It is time to compose another blog. This week has gone by so incredibly fast I can hardly believe it. I was the lucky, or unlucky, recipient of a cold this week. It started Tuesday evening and just got worse as the week went on. Each day I was in the temple I would tell myself, "If I can I will leave and come home". Well, that early departure never came. Tuesday we were asked to come in early because of so many weddings that day. We are sometimes in charge of being their escort as they come to the temple, dress for their sealing, get them where they need to be in a timely manner and then take them back to help with wedding dresses etc. That assignment along with any training that needs to be done on those days really keeps me hopping. And that is why the time goes so fast. Each day this week, that is how it went. On Friday, Larry went to Kanehoe to get tires and an alignment on the car and I stayed home because I felt so lousy. By time to go to our temple shift, I felt somewhat better. It brought me back to my days of teaching when it was just easier to go to work than to have to find work and activities that a substitute could carry out. Here, there is no substitute so I have to go if at all possible. Today I am feeling SO much better. Still have a cough and some congestion but at least my energy level is getting better.
This week as I looked for things to write about I went to the Ensign. I found a few things that are important enough to me to want to record them for my future reading of this blog--but before I do that, a little from our Relief Society Lesson today.
Sister Maeta, a member of the presidency, gave the lesson on Daniel 3. This is the story of King Nebuchadnezzar and his golden image that all were supposed to lay down and worship. Meshach, Shadrach and Abed-nego refused and said they would take any punishment because of their faith in the Lord. "If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace and he will deliver us out of thine hand. But if not, we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up." Then I read a talk given in General Conference April 2004 entitled "But If Not..." Elder Simmons said Faith is total trust in Him (God). Faith is believing that although we do not understand all things, He does. Faith is knowing that although our power is limited, His is not. Faith in Jesus Christ consists of complete reliance on Him. And later in the talk he said, "So there you have it--it's a test. The world is a testing place for mortal men and women. When we understand that it's all a test, administered by our Heavenly Father, who wants us to trust in Him and to allow Him to help us, we can then see everything more clearly." I loved this next quote. "The Lord has given us agency, the right and the responsibility to decide. He tests us by allowing us to be challenged. He assures us that He will not suffer us to be tempted beyon our ability to withstand. But we must understand that great challenges make great men. We don't seek tribulation, but if we respond in faith, the Lord strengthens us. The But if nots can become remarkable blessings." One of the closing paragraphs to this talk is this, "Our God will deliver us from ridicule and persecution, but if not...Our God will deliver us from sickness and disease, but if not... He will deliver us from loneliness, depression or fear, but if not...Our God will deliver us from threats, accusations, and insecurity, but if not... He will deliver us from death or impairment of loved ones, but if not,...we will trust in the Lord." Oh how many times I have had to rely on that trust, and still do need to rely on it with the challenges that come into my life and the lives of my family daily. So grateful for the Atonement of Christ in my life and being able to draw on that in times of need. After all I can do, it is by the grace of God we will be saved.
One of the testimonies borne today was from a father whose daughter is undergoing chemo for cancer and he said he told his family that they need to find what they are to take away or learn from this trial in the family. I have asked myself that in many instances in my life. What am I to learn from this experience. As I reflect now, the things I have learned from trials are much different than I had expected to learn. Trials bring families closer together because of our belief systems. I thought that fit right in with the talk "But If Not..."
Now, back to the Ensign article that I wanted to end with. One of the activities that was suggested to parents with families for a Sunday after church was to make a list of blessings. I know that my list would and will have to be an ongoing list because I find new things each day to be thankful for but here is a start.
I have five terrific children who are supportive in all that I do. I am so blessed to have them and their spouses in my life. I am truly blessed to be grandma to 15 wonderful, smart, adorable grandchildren- one of them spending quality time with Grandpa Bruce.
I have been blessed with wonderful parents who taught me so much good in my life and were great examples to me. They worked hard throughout their lives and instilled that desire in me and I am so grateful for it.
I am blessed to have the knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in my life and a guide as to how to live my life.
I am blessed to be of service to others daily no matter where I am at.
I am blessed to have a wonderful eternal companion waiting for me on the other side of the veil.
I am blessed to have been able to experience a second chance at happiness in this life with my marriage to Larry.
I am blessed to be in a beautiful part of the country right now serving in the temple.
I am blessed to have a beautiful home and live in a beautiful area in Pleasant View, Utah.
I am truly blessed to have great friends from so many places--but especially the Reeds and the Fishers.
I have been blessed with good health throughout my life with very few lasting problems.
I have been blessed with wonderful extended families whom I have learned so much from over the years. I only hope I can be that example in the lives of others.
I think I have written enough for tonight. To Be Continued........
This week as I looked for things to write about I went to the Ensign. I found a few things that are important enough to me to want to record them for my future reading of this blog--but before I do that, a little from our Relief Society Lesson today.
Sister Maeta, a member of the presidency, gave the lesson on Daniel 3. This is the story of King Nebuchadnezzar and his golden image that all were supposed to lay down and worship. Meshach, Shadrach and Abed-nego refused and said they would take any punishment because of their faith in the Lord. "If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace and he will deliver us out of thine hand. But if not, we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up." Then I read a talk given in General Conference April 2004 entitled "But If Not..." Elder Simmons said Faith is total trust in Him (God). Faith is believing that although we do not understand all things, He does. Faith is knowing that although our power is limited, His is not. Faith in Jesus Christ consists of complete reliance on Him. And later in the talk he said, "So there you have it--it's a test. The world is a testing place for mortal men and women. When we understand that it's all a test, administered by our Heavenly Father, who wants us to trust in Him and to allow Him to help us, we can then see everything more clearly." I loved this next quote. "The Lord has given us agency, the right and the responsibility to decide. He tests us by allowing us to be challenged. He assures us that He will not suffer us to be tempted beyon our ability to withstand. But we must understand that great challenges make great men. We don't seek tribulation, but if we respond in faith, the Lord strengthens us. The But if nots can become remarkable blessings." One of the closing paragraphs to this talk is this, "Our God will deliver us from ridicule and persecution, but if not...Our God will deliver us from sickness and disease, but if not... He will deliver us from loneliness, depression or fear, but if not...Our God will deliver us from threats, accusations, and insecurity, but if not... He will deliver us from death or impairment of loved ones, but if not,...we will trust in the Lord." Oh how many times I have had to rely on that trust, and still do need to rely on it with the challenges that come into my life and the lives of my family daily. So grateful for the Atonement of Christ in my life and being able to draw on that in times of need. After all I can do, it is by the grace of God we will be saved.
One of the testimonies borne today was from a father whose daughter is undergoing chemo for cancer and he said he told his family that they need to find what they are to take away or learn from this trial in the family. I have asked myself that in many instances in my life. What am I to learn from this experience. As I reflect now, the things I have learned from trials are much different than I had expected to learn. Trials bring families closer together because of our belief systems. I thought that fit right in with the talk "But If Not..."
Now, back to the Ensign article that I wanted to end with. One of the activities that was suggested to parents with families for a Sunday after church was to make a list of blessings. I know that my list would and will have to be an ongoing list because I find new things each day to be thankful for but here is a start.
I have five terrific children who are supportive in all that I do. I am so blessed to have them and their spouses in my life. I am truly blessed to be grandma to 15 wonderful, smart, adorable grandchildren- one of them spending quality time with Grandpa Bruce.
I have been blessed with wonderful parents who taught me so much good in my life and were great examples to me. They worked hard throughout their lives and instilled that desire in me and I am so grateful for it.
I am blessed to have the knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ in my life and a guide as to how to live my life.
I am blessed to be of service to others daily no matter where I am at.
I am blessed to have a wonderful eternal companion waiting for me on the other side of the veil.
I am blessed to have been able to experience a second chance at happiness in this life with my marriage to Larry.
I am blessed to be in a beautiful part of the country right now serving in the temple.
I am blessed to have a beautiful home and live in a beautiful area in Pleasant View, Utah.
I am truly blessed to have great friends from so many places--but especially the Reeds and the Fishers.
I have been blessed with good health throughout my life with very few lasting problems.
I have been blessed with wonderful extended families whom I have learned so much from over the years. I only hope I can be that example in the lives of others.
I think I have written enough for tonight. To Be Continued........
Monday, February 29, 2016
Leap Year Day- February 29, 2016
I am a little late on this post but here it is. I need to give myself kudos for just a minute. I really struggle with journalling, and have done all my life. However, during this mission I have been pretty good about blogging once a week. I hope that the things I have written will be a great reminder of my time here and the thoughts and feelings that have come to mind as I have served my Heavenly Father in this capacity.
This week we have had little time for anything other than our temple work each day. But, as I have said before, that is what we are here for. Our afternoons and evenings were spent in the temple helping Ordinance Workers learn and do the things they are set apart to do. I still find much joy in helping with this Holy work. I know I talked a little last week about Sister Mon from Burma. This week I asked her about her disability and she was very open with me. She has had a severe case of scoliosis since she was little and her parents couldn't find a doctor that could do surgery so it just got worse over the years. This was compounded by Polio so she had two things against her. From what she was telling me, she was pretty deformed with one hip higher than the other which made one leg shorter. She had to have lifts put on her shoes and it was a struggle to walk. But she didn't complain. One German Dr. told her mother that he could operate but she would only have a 50/50 chance of walking after that. Mom didn't want to take that chance. It was while on her mission in Idaho, when she was having a hard time breathing, that the Mission President sent her to the Dr. Her conditions were making the spine etc cut off use of her lungs. She found that there were three Dr.'s in the world that were capable of performing the surgery she needed and one was in Salt Lake City so she was transferred to Provo and spent another three months on her mission. The Dr. took seven months of x-rays and planning for the surgery so he would know every little detail that had to be done with her bones. She still walks with quite a limp because over the years the muscles in her legs had atrophied due to lack of use but she walks and climbs stairs. What a testimony to how her faith in God and the medical profession has given her a new lease on a "mostly" normal life. She is such a sweet, sweet girl and so willing to learn and so smart. She is a tiny little girl and has a hard time finding clothing so she makes her own. Her temple dress is beautiful.
Again this week we were able to be escorts for a few couples who were getting married. I really enjoy this part of my job too. So fun to find out a little about the Bride while helping her get ready for their sealing. This week will be very busy with weddings as well since BYU-H is in semesters. Tomorrow we will be in the temple for nearly 10 hours-maybe more.
I have been writing a little about talks and lessons in church each week that have brought me a little closer to Heavenly Father. Yesterday the speakers were Sister Miao (one of the sister missionaries) and Brother Nikora of our Bishopric. Both shared messages from the conference talk, "Yielding Our Hearts To God" by Neill F. Marriott.
One of the questions asked was, How do we yield to God in our busy lives? It is a little easier I think when we are in the service of our Lord as missionaries but when I return home, what are the things I will do to keep that missionary spirit alive? I know I will need to keep up on the study I am doing and attending the temple often. We know that the temple is really God's University. All questions having to do with Eternal Life and Eternal Salvation can be answered there if our hearts are open and willing to learn. Brother Nikora gave an example in his own life when he was on his mission and got word that his Father had passed away in a car accident. Because this had happened in our family when Michelle was on her mission, I paid close attention. Sister Marriott also had a daughter pass away while she and her husband were serving as mission presidents and was not able to see her daughter before her death. Even in the face of tragedy, if we Yield our hearts to God, he will help us through those really tough times. I know this to be true. A couple of thoughts from the talk were, "When loved ones die, it is through our faithfulness and obedience to temple covenants that will allow us to be together again." "Trials are to humble us and teach us. When we open our hearts to the Spirit, we God's ways."
Our Sunday School lesson brought out some of the same kinds of ideas and then with the perfect ending to the meeting block, Bro. Manoa, our Sunday School Teacher, had us sing, "Count Your Many Blessings". I have so many and have been so blessed over the course of my 65 years.
Today is a rainy day here in Hawaii. It has been nice and sunny most of the week but even with the rain, it is warm so I'm not complaining. On Saturday after the temple, we drove into Waikiki and walked along the beach in Alomoana Park after eating a delightful meal at Spaghetti Factory overlooking the ocean. I am afraid I will miss this place when it is time to leave in a short three and a half months.
This week we have had little time for anything other than our temple work each day. But, as I have said before, that is what we are here for. Our afternoons and evenings were spent in the temple helping Ordinance Workers learn and do the things they are set apart to do. I still find much joy in helping with this Holy work. I know I talked a little last week about Sister Mon from Burma. This week I asked her about her disability and she was very open with me. She has had a severe case of scoliosis since she was little and her parents couldn't find a doctor that could do surgery so it just got worse over the years. This was compounded by Polio so she had two things against her. From what she was telling me, she was pretty deformed with one hip higher than the other which made one leg shorter. She had to have lifts put on her shoes and it was a struggle to walk. But she didn't complain. One German Dr. told her mother that he could operate but she would only have a 50/50 chance of walking after that. Mom didn't want to take that chance. It was while on her mission in Idaho, when she was having a hard time breathing, that the Mission President sent her to the Dr. Her conditions were making the spine etc cut off use of her lungs. She found that there were three Dr.'s in the world that were capable of performing the surgery she needed and one was in Salt Lake City so she was transferred to Provo and spent another three months on her mission. The Dr. took seven months of x-rays and planning for the surgery so he would know every little detail that had to be done with her bones. She still walks with quite a limp because over the years the muscles in her legs had atrophied due to lack of use but she walks and climbs stairs. What a testimony to how her faith in God and the medical profession has given her a new lease on a "mostly" normal life. She is such a sweet, sweet girl and so willing to learn and so smart. She is a tiny little girl and has a hard time finding clothing so she makes her own. Her temple dress is beautiful.
Again this week we were able to be escorts for a few couples who were getting married. I really enjoy this part of my job too. So fun to find out a little about the Bride while helping her get ready for their sealing. This week will be very busy with weddings as well since BYU-H is in semesters. Tomorrow we will be in the temple for nearly 10 hours-maybe more.
I have been writing a little about talks and lessons in church each week that have brought me a little closer to Heavenly Father. Yesterday the speakers were Sister Miao (one of the sister missionaries) and Brother Nikora of our Bishopric. Both shared messages from the conference talk, "Yielding Our Hearts To God" by Neill F. Marriott.
One of the questions asked was, How do we yield to God in our busy lives? It is a little easier I think when we are in the service of our Lord as missionaries but when I return home, what are the things I will do to keep that missionary spirit alive? I know I will need to keep up on the study I am doing and attending the temple often. We know that the temple is really God's University. All questions having to do with Eternal Life and Eternal Salvation can be answered there if our hearts are open and willing to learn. Brother Nikora gave an example in his own life when he was on his mission and got word that his Father had passed away in a car accident. Because this had happened in our family when Michelle was on her mission, I paid close attention. Sister Marriott also had a daughter pass away while she and her husband were serving as mission presidents and was not able to see her daughter before her death. Even in the face of tragedy, if we Yield our hearts to God, he will help us through those really tough times. I know this to be true. A couple of thoughts from the talk were, "When loved ones die, it is through our faithfulness and obedience to temple covenants that will allow us to be together again." "Trials are to humble us and teach us. When we open our hearts to the Spirit, we God's ways."
Our Sunday School lesson brought out some of the same kinds of ideas and then with the perfect ending to the meeting block, Bro. Manoa, our Sunday School Teacher, had us sing, "Count Your Many Blessings". I have so many and have been so blessed over the course of my 65 years.
Today is a rainy day here in Hawaii. It has been nice and sunny most of the week but even with the rain, it is warm so I'm not complaining. On Saturday after the temple, we drove into Waikiki and walked along the beach in Alomoana Park after eating a delightful meal at Spaghetti Factory overlooking the ocean. I am afraid I will miss this place when it is time to leave in a short three and a half months.
Monday, February 22, 2016
SISTER MON'S STORY, TRIALS AND PHONE CALLS
Another week has passed and we are still as busy as ever. The weather has been so wonderful here. I know I am missing out on all the snow and ice and cold in Ogden but I love it here when it isn't so humid. We had had a few spurts of rain today but nothing for very long. The nighttime temps are great for sleeping so who can complain?
This month, in the temple, we are working from 1:00 to 8:00. It is nice to have the change and not get up so early in the morning. Also nice to renew friendships with those who work the afternoon/evening shifts. Have I ever mentioned how nice and happy the people are who work in the temple? They are all so happy to see me when I walk through the door. I really love that. I know that is one thing I will miss when we go home. I had one worker tell me that she loves Utah but there isn't any "Aloha". People don't wave or smile or hug. I felt bad about those comments but it gives me something to think about when I return. Show "Aloha"!
I need to tell about a neat experience I had this week. We got a new college student as an ordinance worker this week (A regular occurrence). I always like to ask about the students, where they are from, what their conversion story is if applicable, and where they served their mission. Friday night I met Yee Yee Olive Mon from Burma.
What a choice spirit she has. She has some sort of physical problem where she drags her foot a little and has quite a curve in her back. I suspect she has scoliosis that maybe can't be repaired. She served a mission in Boise, Id. for 18 months and another 3 as an extension in Provo. I know I will leave some details out but here is her story. In Burma, up until a few years ago, visitors were not allowed in the country and it was very difficult to get out of the country. She was attending the university and had some friends who were researching world religions. They found "Mormonism" on the internet and decided they wanted to find out more. They sent a letter to Church Headquarters and didn't get an answer right away. They sent another letter and was informed that there were no missionaries in their country but there was one military family who was LDS and gave them details on how to contact them. This family had sacrament meeting in their home each week with their three teenage sons and invited the youth to attend. They felt a special spirit there and wanted Yee Yee to go to. She had no interest. Within a few months, one of the senior missionary couples serving a service mission in Thailand was sent to Burma. The sister missionary started giving free piano lessons so the young people talked their friend Yee Yee into taking lessons. She said she felt something special when in the company of the senior missionaries so when asked if she wanted to learn more about the church, she said yes. The next day she knew she wanted to be baptized but because it was against the laws of the country (because she wasn't yet 18), she had to wait. She was among the first 38 people to be baptized in a makeshift pool on the 10th floor of an apartment building. She was the first person to be able to leave the country to go on a mission and that only because her dad worked for the government and they knew she was a respectable person. I asked if her parents were supportive. They have not yet been converted but she said her parents were supportive. However, when she got her mission call to America, her mother wasn't going to let her go because the picture they had of America came from movies representing crime and she thought her daughter would be killed.
While she was on her mission, the government in her country went through a vast change and now they allow tourists etc into the country so they do have a few missionaries. Sister Mon has a sister serving a mission in Thailand now.
It is unbelievable to me how things open up in countries for missionary work and it is always in the Lord's time.
Yesterday we were the escorts for a young couple getting married. The girl is from Hong Kong and the boy from Mainland China. In conversation with Larry, he said that China is ready for missionaries and the church but the church isn't ready for China. There will be a huge need for church buildings and even temples and that will take much planning. Again, so interesting. I am always astounded when I hear from those from Mainland China how many members there are there just waiting for the time when the church can be recognized there.
The Blog would be complete without me telling a little of church today. Our Sunday School Lesson came from 2Nephi 3-5. This is where Nephi has lost his father, his brothers want to kill him and he is trying to do all the things the Lord has asked him to do. He also has to provide for his family and those with him. We talked about stressful situations and how we handle them. Through Nephi's example, we all need to call upon the Lord through prayer, scripture study and our faith to get us through those trials we encounter--especially those big trials that happen in our lives. It made me reflect on tough times in my life and how prayer, scriptures and faith in and knowledge of eternal families, and most especially the love my Heavenly Father has for me, helped me get through those times.
On a lighter note, I got to talk to some of my cute grandkids today (and their parents). I called Landon to find out about his play date with a new friend from school and Maelynn and Ellie called to remind me how excited they are to visit here in HI next month. Can't wait!
This month, in the temple, we are working from 1:00 to 8:00. It is nice to have the change and not get up so early in the morning. Also nice to renew friendships with those who work the afternoon/evening shifts. Have I ever mentioned how nice and happy the people are who work in the temple? They are all so happy to see me when I walk through the door. I really love that. I know that is one thing I will miss when we go home. I had one worker tell me that she loves Utah but there isn't any "Aloha". People don't wave or smile or hug. I felt bad about those comments but it gives me something to think about when I return. Show "Aloha"!
I need to tell about a neat experience I had this week. We got a new college student as an ordinance worker this week (A regular occurrence). I always like to ask about the students, where they are from, what their conversion story is if applicable, and where they served their mission. Friday night I met Yee Yee Olive Mon from Burma.
What a choice spirit she has. She has some sort of physical problem where she drags her foot a little and has quite a curve in her back. I suspect she has scoliosis that maybe can't be repaired. She served a mission in Boise, Id. for 18 months and another 3 as an extension in Provo. I know I will leave some details out but here is her story. In Burma, up until a few years ago, visitors were not allowed in the country and it was very difficult to get out of the country. She was attending the university and had some friends who were researching world religions. They found "Mormonism" on the internet and decided they wanted to find out more. They sent a letter to Church Headquarters and didn't get an answer right away. They sent another letter and was informed that there were no missionaries in their country but there was one military family who was LDS and gave them details on how to contact them. This family had sacrament meeting in their home each week with their three teenage sons and invited the youth to attend. They felt a special spirit there and wanted Yee Yee to go to. She had no interest. Within a few months, one of the senior missionary couples serving a service mission in Thailand was sent to Burma. The sister missionary started giving free piano lessons so the young people talked their friend Yee Yee into taking lessons. She said she felt something special when in the company of the senior missionaries so when asked if she wanted to learn more about the church, she said yes. The next day she knew she wanted to be baptized but because it was against the laws of the country (because she wasn't yet 18), she had to wait. She was among the first 38 people to be baptized in a makeshift pool on the 10th floor of an apartment building. She was the first person to be able to leave the country to go on a mission and that only because her dad worked for the government and they knew she was a respectable person. I asked if her parents were supportive. They have not yet been converted but she said her parents were supportive. However, when she got her mission call to America, her mother wasn't going to let her go because the picture they had of America came from movies representing crime and she thought her daughter would be killed.
While she was on her mission, the government in her country went through a vast change and now they allow tourists etc into the country so they do have a few missionaries. Sister Mon has a sister serving a mission in Thailand now.
It is unbelievable to me how things open up in countries for missionary work and it is always in the Lord's time.
Yesterday we were the escorts for a young couple getting married. The girl is from Hong Kong and the boy from Mainland China. In conversation with Larry, he said that China is ready for missionaries and the church but the church isn't ready for China. There will be a huge need for church buildings and even temples and that will take much planning. Again, so interesting. I am always astounded when I hear from those from Mainland China how many members there are there just waiting for the time when the church can be recognized there.
The Blog would be complete without me telling a little of church today. Our Sunday School Lesson came from 2Nephi 3-5. This is where Nephi has lost his father, his brothers want to kill him and he is trying to do all the things the Lord has asked him to do. He also has to provide for his family and those with him. We talked about stressful situations and how we handle them. Through Nephi's example, we all need to call upon the Lord through prayer, scripture study and our faith to get us through those trials we encounter--especially those big trials that happen in our lives. It made me reflect on tough times in my life and how prayer, scriptures and faith in and knowledge of eternal families, and most especially the love my Heavenly Father has for me, helped me get through those times.
On a lighter note, I got to talk to some of my cute grandkids today (and their parents). I called Landon to find out about his play date with a new friend from school and Maelynn and Ellie called to remind me how excited they are to visit here in HI next month. Can't wait!
Monday, February 15, 2016
THOUGHTS FROM REGIONAL CONFERENCE--VALENTINES DAY 2016
I'll start with a little Valentine card I received from my neighbor, Sister Smith, with a brownie attached to it. The handmade card reads, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." -Proverbs 3:5
The Lord works in mysterious ways and I am finding out that those messages I need to hear at any particular time in my life just seem to pop out from everywhere when I most need them. I remember when Carl died, which was a huge adversity in my life, I was guided to scriptures and articles having to do with adversity and being able to survive it according to the way the Lord would want me to. D&C 121: 7-8 was a great comfort to me as well as several articles and books concerning death and why our loved ones may be called "home" to soon. I always asked Heavenly Father "What can I learn from this experience?" I still ask that today no matter what my current trial is.
We attended our regional broadcast stake conference yesterday and were privileged to hear from four wonderful speakers with messages that were certainly applicable to my life and things that are of concern in the church right now. I took notes (a bit scattered since I was trying to listen and write at the same time) and would like to put them in this blog. I know that only a few people read this blog (maybe 2? besides myself) so this is really just for my benefit. However, if anyone else gets anything from the thoughts I review from our conference, that would be awesome. We never know if the things we write are just what someone else needs to hear right now.
Regional Satellite Broadcast conference
Sister
Bonnie Oscarson:
The Lord works in mysterious ways and I am finding out that those messages I need to hear at any particular time in my life just seem to pop out from everywhere when I most need them. I remember when Carl died, which was a huge adversity in my life, I was guided to scriptures and articles having to do with adversity and being able to survive it according to the way the Lord would want me to. D&C 121: 7-8 was a great comfort to me as well as several articles and books concerning death and why our loved ones may be called "home" to soon. I always asked Heavenly Father "What can I learn from this experience?" I still ask that today no matter what my current trial is.
We attended our regional broadcast stake conference yesterday and were privileged to hear from four wonderful speakers with messages that were certainly applicable to my life and things that are of concern in the church right now. I took notes (a bit scattered since I was trying to listen and write at the same time) and would like to put them in this blog. I know that only a few people read this blog (maybe 2? besides myself) so this is really just for my benefit. However, if anyone else gets anything from the thoughts I review from our conference, that would be awesome. We never know if the things we write are just what someone else needs to hear right now.
Sunday February 14, 2016
Speakers: Elder Renland, Sister Bonnie Oscarson (General YW
presidency), Elder C. Scott Crow (Seventy) and Elder James J. Hamula (Seventy).
Elder Crow talked about Patterns of Faith. He quoted the song “True to The Faith…” and
said that he always wanted to stay true to the faith. If you have a pattern in all things and stay
true to it, you will not be deceived by the adversary.
· *Read the Scriptures daily. Press forward with steadfastness in Christ.
Holy Ghost will show you the meaning of and direction to go through the
scriptures. We can gain more of the
doctrine by talking of this with others and discussing. Also, use the index in the scriptures,
looking up the cross references to understand more of topics-not just read the
scriptures straight through.
·
He reminded us of Bruce R. McConkie’s final
conference talk wherein he said that in a short time he would sit at the feet
of the Savior… and 11 days later he passed away. In that talk we were admonished to feast upon
the words of the scriptures. (I need to look that talk up.) Make
scripture study a priority. Scripture
study is a catalyst to prayer.
· *Prayers are significant to your salvation.
· *Attend Church.
This is a demonstration of faith-not just a social commitment. We should
come with a broken heart and a contrite spirit to partake of the sacrament each
week. In the sacrament prayers we are
reminded that we take upon ourselves His name.
Strive to be like Him. Always
remember Him. And always seek to have
His spirit with you.
What
does it mean to be a true disciple of Christ?
Keeping all the commandments. When we make and keep sacred covenants we
are coming out of the world and into the pathway to eternal exaltation.
She
told a story of a group of teens on the night of prom. They were at a restaurant and when finished
eating the waiter brought them their check but it had been paid for. The teens were astonished since it was a
pretty expensive for the group. The
waitress told them that another patron had been watching them and their
behavior and was impressed with their modest dress and their clean conversation
and their overall behavior so decided to pay for their meals.
Remember
the Young Women’s theme: We are daughters of our Heavenly Father and He loves
us. We stand as witnesses at all times,
in all places…not just on Sunday!
“Wickedness never was happiness.”
The Lord never gives up on us.
3
Ne. 27 “What manner of man are you…”
Elder
James J. Hamula:
We
live in challenging and perilous times. We have been warned that the whole
earth will be in commotion. “Fear Not—Be not troubled.
Three
suggestions:
1. 1. Keep your eyes fixed on the Lord
We are in the midst of our journey with
tempestuous seas. When we take our eyes
off the Lord, we will sink as Peter did when he followed the Savior’s words to
Come to Him.
2. 2.Trust the Lord in His power of deliverance.
Trust him and all will be well with you to the end. “In the world you shall have fear but be of
good cheer for I have overcome the world.”
3. 3.Stand behind the church’s leaders. The church will prevail. Build your lives on the gospel of Jesus
Christ and you build on a rock a firm foundation. Hearken to the voice of church leaders. Follow their collective instruction.
4.
Perfection is NOT a prerequisite for a
prophet. “Joseph Smith said “I’m not
perfect but there is No error in the revelations I have taught.” God is the head of the church- not man.
Elder Renlund:
How do we explain our
behaviors without going back to the 1st vision—Joseph seeing God and
Jesus Christ and revelation as basis for our faith. Explain in context of eternal salvation. “My doctrine is not mine but of Him who sent
me”. -John 7:16
Likewise, it is not man's doctrine, but that of our Heavenly Father.
Satan’s objective is to stop the plan of salvation from happening. All through time and in each of our lives he
tries to stop the plan through lack of obedience to God and Jesus Christ.
The Lord knows what kind of families he wants. Marriage that does not comply with Gods plan
is a plan stopper.
Always know that that when others don't see eye to eye with our beliefs, it is alright to disagree
without being disagreeable. (Agree to disagree without being confrontational.)
Well, that was a lot to put in one blog but I felt a special spirit in this conference and again, just as I have reported in other weeks, these talks gave me so much to think about and reflect upon I wanted to make sure I recorded my feeble attempt at taking notes again.
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