Hey Family!
Well yet another week on the mish! This week was kind of slow all and all. there were some pretty good experiences this week, but in a way it was kind of frustrating. I know every week can't be super exciting and full of success, so I'm just gonna be patient and take one week at a time, and just trying to do my best.
Me and Elder Pastor are working very well together. I don't think I've mentioned this, but I've heard that it's pretty hard to go from your first companion to your 2nd because your trainer has taught you to teach a certain way, and then when you get to your second companion he teaches you to teach in a whole different way. That's kind of what happened, but I have not been fighting against it at all. I'm taking what I can learn from him and using that with what I have learned from my trainer, Elder Alldredge. It's pretty cool to see how embracing two styles can really increase teaching effectiveness. It really is something
To answer a couple questions that Dad asked about Elder Pastor. He is actually from Madrid Spain. He does have a "Theta" (I think that is what it's called) when he speaks spanish. It's pretty funny to hear him speak that way. He says that Mexican spanish is way different, and that he has to speak slowly to them because it's that different. Plus he says lots of English words have worked into Mexican spanish like "Movar" to say "To move". It's pretty funny. He told me a lot of stories of his past and what he used to do in spain. He said he went to a lot of dances that were in the local clubs in Spain. He also says that he watched a lot of Simpsons. It's really funny to rattle off some Simpsons quotes because he gets to hear what the Simpsons sound like in English. He then tells me what the translaters say in Spanish. For example: On the episode where N'Sync made a guest appearance there is this part where Milhouse says "It's N'Sync!", N'Sync comes in and one of them says "Word!" Elder Pastor didn't understand why he said "Word." "What does that mean?" he asked. I told him it's the same as saying "Dude" or "Yeah!" He understood and I asked him what they said in spanish. He said they said something like "Que hay!" I thought that was halerious, so anytime I walk into a room or something I look at Pastor and say "Que Hay!"
So in Work news we did a lot of tracting this week. Like I said it was kind of frustrating because we got a lot of people getting mad at us. This one lady pulled in as we were knocking on her door. She had a dog inside that was barking at the time and she said "What are you doing? You guys messing with my dog or something?" I explained what we were doing and she got short with me and said "No, get out of here, don't you ever mess with my dog again!" Yeah lady, you caught us. We were taunting your dog by knocking on the door. :P Pff. Me and Elder Pastor made jokes about that the whole day that day. Elder Pastor would knock on a door and if a dog started barking I would yell "Elder Pastor! Stop messing with the dog!" Heh Ohhh the halerity ^_^. We had maybe 1 or 2 people be nice to us, and one of them we had a good chat with. I have a good feeling that she may invistigate the church sometime. I don't know, maybe we planted a couple of seeds this week, who knows. I'm just going to put my faith in the Lord and continue forward.
This week actually we got in with 1 less active family and a Part member family that we normally don't get in with. One part member family, The Hansens, are really nice people. The Father,who is not a member, works for Disney Land and also volunteers for the fire department that they have in Disney Land as well. He showed us videos that he took with his sweet High definition video camara made by V-Hold (Dad you should check them out). It was a camara that he was able to attatch to his helmet and take video of him doing training against kitchen fires and such. It was really cool to watch. I especially like how all the firefighters had the word "Disney" written on their uniforms. It was funny ^_^. We got them to let us come a couple more times to start giving the discussions. The Father is a Catholic, but only because he was born that way. He says he doesn't like some of the hypocrasy and such, so it seems like he's really interested in hearing what we believe. The wife is very strong in the church, so I think that she will be a great aid for us because she can bare testimony and be a good example for him.
We also got in with the Mersola Family. This is a very interesting case. The Father is borderline Athiest and the Mother discribed herself as a "Jack Mormon". She said this when she was telling us how good she was at Black Jack and how she was able to either brake even or gain lots of money. Apparantly when she was around 14 years old she was beginning to be a bit rebilious. She was skipping school and other little rebellious things like that. The bishop told her that she was kind of straying on to the wrong path and this offended her, and so she had never been to church since. She also had a big problem with the church telling her to vote for Prop 8. She is quite the open minded individual and she believes that Gay people have just as much right to marry as straight people do. I really admire that, but sometimes that kind of attitude can really cause corruption and lead to other things that may be straying from the path. She also told us that her son was on the baseball team and that he was good at every position. She said that she trained him how to not be afraid of the ball by chucking balls at him. She said that it may sound abbusive, but that it did cure him of his fear and now he is a very great baseball player. Already with this lady I am sensing a great bit of pride. I hope that we can help her out. She has a strong testimony of Jesus Christ and she really enjoys our visits. We'll see what will happen with them.
I'm really supprised to see the ammount of less active people that I have come in contact with leave the church because of being offended. In fact, EVERY less active family I have met with left because of being offended. It's usually a combined case of members persicuting those who are different, and the less active person being easily offended. I really wish that members would realize that we should love all of our brothers and sisters, and not judge them for their weaknesses or follies, but rather love and support them, and I really wish that those who fall away could realize that it's not the members that make the church. It's Jesus Christ, who is the chief cornerstone of our church that reigns at the head. Oh what a different world we would live in if that were the case, however we are all not perfect, and I forgive them, and I will do my best to love and support all of them the best that I can.
Well that's enough of me rambling. I gonna talk to you guys seperately. "You gotta keep em seperated" (Offspring quote) XD
Mom: Thank you so much for keeping me updated with how everyone at DFS is doing. It really warms my heart to know how much of an impact I've made with these people. I think I will try to write them a letter, just to let them know that I am thinking about them. Let them know that I am still thinking about them. I admit I haven't really had that much time to practice my forms, but I will try to practice them just to keep the moves fresh in my mind ^_^;. I'm glad that Chris is really learning, and I hope that he does well in the Marines. He is a strong willed man and I know he will do great in whatever he puts his mind to. I hope you have an awesome time at that conference. I'm glad you get the oppurtunity to sing in the choir. I actually get to sing in the ward choir during a special stake conference where one of the 70 is coming into town to speak to all of us on May 3rd. It's going to be an awesome experience. Elder Pastor may actually sing with me too, since he has a good voice as well. Well glad that everything is going well and you are enjoying spring. I hear that Summer is really hot here in southern California, but not nearly as humid as Georgia. Guess I'll find out soon enough eh ^_^;;. I Love you mom and I can't wait until Mother's day as well ^_^.
Dad: Glad to hear everything was going well with you. Thanks for sharing another one of your mission stories with me. I hope that if that happens to me, that I will be a fit enough "referee" to help the couple out ^_^;. I also really enjoyed reading about your open mic night with Al. I so wish I could've been there when you layed down some Phat slab bass beats man! Ahh, I bet you felt like the coolest guy in the club, the cats pajamas, the bees knees 8). (that's a smiley with sunglasses by the way XD). Anyway glad to hear everything is going good. Hope you have an EXCELLENT week *guitar solo*. I love you dad
Rachel: Hope all is going well with you and Brady. I printed out the picture of you on horse back. I'm so glad you go that oppurtunity to bring back memories of you when you were 5 ^_^. Hope you do well in school. I know you can do it sis. DO IT FOR STAKE! heheh ^_^ I love you sister more then wards can say.
I love you all. Take care!
-Elder Clark
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
My new companion from Spain-Elder Pastor
Heeey Family!
Yet another great week! This week I kind of got to lead because Elder Pastor (My new companion from spain) really didn't know the area all that well. So I got to make all the plans, set up the appointments, go tracting and everything. It was pretty hectic ^_^;. I wanted to make sure that I didn't everything that I could to to make every hour count. Elder Pastor said that I've done a really good job.
I do miss working with Elder Alldredge, but it's not to bad because he just moved from the Burbank 2nd ward area (The one I'm in) to the Burbank 3rd ward area. Burbank 2nd and 3rd ward Elder's share an appartment so pretty much Elder Alldredge just moved across the hall. So I still get to see him! Yay!
Anyway I wish I could tell you guys a really good spiritual story that happened with a single person, but really all that happened where a couple of small miracles.
One that I remember the most was when this lady pulled up to us in her car, somewhat on the verge of tears, and asked us to pray for her boyfriend. It was kind of a sad story. She said that he had a tendency to stay away from addictions and then, due to some outside influence, slip back into them. My campion told about how he used to have addiction problems as well and that all it took was a change of lifestyle that made him stay on the right path (i.e. moving from spain to Utah) She seemed to like that advice. I was prompted to say that sometimes all we really can do is be an example to others and be the best that we can be. By following the example of Jesus Christ and then guiding others to do the same is the best thing that we can do, and it's pretty much what I do as well. This seemed to really touch her because she said that taht was the answer that she has been getting for 5 months now, and that I just confirmed it. She recognized that the words that we were saying were trully God's words. I was stunned, amazed, and filled with the spirit. I guess sometimes I don't give myself enough credit in certain situations, but yes, I realize that by trusting in the lord we can all speak with the "tounge of angels" and speak the words of god.
Me and Elder Pastor also taught the Eccles family's niece. Her name is Andrea and she moved from Mexico. The Eccles' are members, but the niece is not. We decided to begin teaching her by showing her "The Restoration" DVD. She really enjoyed it and didn't have a problem with it all. She is still trying to learn English so she had a hard time understanding when I spoke English. Elder Pastor spoke spanish to her and I tried my best to understand everything. Suprisingly I caught a lot of things he was saying and was able to somewhat follow the conversation. It was awesome. This last Sunday we taught her again and we watched "The Testaments" which makes me cry at the end every time. Again we talked to her in spanish and I was able to bear my testimony in Spanish. Oh how awesome it was to speak another language and feel the same spirit that I had felt all my life. I felt as though my words were being guided as well, that even though I wasn't speaking my native tounge I still knew what to say. It was wonderful and I loved the feeling that I had the whole time.
Well, those where the main things that happened. Time to talk to you guys seperately now
Rachel: It was awesome to recieve a letter from you telling about your awesome experience in "SWEET HOME ALABAAAAMA!" heheh ^_^. I immediately was thrown back in time when you mentioned that you went horse back riding. I had a Sister in my MTC district that loved riding horses. She said that riding by yourself in the awesome scenery of the woods was like speeding around with your best friend. I hope that you felt that way too as you cantered along (yes I still remember some of the terms). I also like to comment on the way you discribed your experience with Uncle Jef. You sounded just like a well known author. You have great writing skills Rachel. Keep it up! Anyway I'm glad you had a great time and I hope to hear more from you. Keep up the good work and know that I love you very much. You have definately been there from me when I needed you. I don't think I can say those things enough ^_^.
Mom: I'm glad you had a great time with dad. Thanks so much for the spiritual thoughts. I love visualizing Jesus Christ's arms incircling us in our times of need whenever we need him. It's such a comforting feeling. Glad you guys got to feel young again and take a night out on the town with Dad rockin the bass. Sounds like fun and I miss hearing him play. It trully was a treat to hear him and his awesome skills. Well, I hope you have a great week mom. Hope everything i well with you, and I hope you don't get to stressed. One day at a time. I love you so much mom and I can't wait until Mother's day as well ^_^
Dad: Sounds like you had quite the hecktic week like me ^_^;. I hope your next weekend will be a little more relaxing. I'm glad you got to play Bass in front of a bunch of screaming fans. Woot! heheh ^_^;. Maybe not exactly, but still fun. You still considering doing that one man band thing? I really hope that works out. Oh! Speaking of which I don't think I've mentioned one of the members that I have been Teaching. His name is Micheal Skews and he used to be in a band called Fatel Attraction. He's met Motley Crue and Ted Nugent! He is so awesome! He is also a HUUUUUGE fan of Kiss. He's got all their murchandise and everything. Pin ball machines, belt buckles, you name it! Heheh just thought I would mention that. Well I hope you have a good week. I love you so much dad and I can't wait to get home and recieve a world class guitar solo to the face again XD.
well Family I love you to pieces! Hope everything will be EXCELLENT *Guitar solo*
-Elder Clark
P.S. "put them in the Iron Maiden"
"EXCELLENT"
"Execute them"
". . .booogus"
(this one is for Rachel)
"Ask what place I got!"
"Which?"
"THIS MANY!"
"Flat?"
"FIFTH DUMMY!"
Yet another great week! This week I kind of got to lead because Elder Pastor (My new companion from spain) really didn't know the area all that well. So I got to make all the plans, set up the appointments, go tracting and everything. It was pretty hectic ^_^;. I wanted to make sure that I didn't everything that I could to to make every hour count. Elder Pastor said that I've done a really good job.
I do miss working with Elder Alldredge, but it's not to bad because he just moved from the Burbank 2nd ward area (The one I'm in) to the Burbank 3rd ward area. Burbank 2nd and 3rd ward Elder's share an appartment so pretty much Elder Alldredge just moved across the hall. So I still get to see him! Yay!
Anyway I wish I could tell you guys a really good spiritual story that happened with a single person, but really all that happened where a couple of small miracles.
One that I remember the most was when this lady pulled up to us in her car, somewhat on the verge of tears, and asked us to pray for her boyfriend. It was kind of a sad story. She said that he had a tendency to stay away from addictions and then, due to some outside influence, slip back into them. My campion told about how he used to have addiction problems as well and that all it took was a change of lifestyle that made him stay on the right path (i.e. moving from spain to Utah) She seemed to like that advice. I was prompted to say that sometimes all we really can do is be an example to others and be the best that we can be. By following the example of Jesus Christ and then guiding others to do the same is the best thing that we can do, and it's pretty much what I do as well. This seemed to really touch her because she said that taht was the answer that she has been getting for 5 months now, and that I just confirmed it. She recognized that the words that we were saying were trully God's words. I was stunned, amazed, and filled with the spirit. I guess sometimes I don't give myself enough credit in certain situations, but yes, I realize that by trusting in the lord we can all speak with the "tounge of angels" and speak the words of god.
Me and Elder Pastor also taught the Eccles family's niece. Her name is Andrea and she moved from Mexico. The Eccles' are members, but the niece is not. We decided to begin teaching her by showing her "The Restoration" DVD. She really enjoyed it and didn't have a problem with it all. She is still trying to learn English so she had a hard time understanding when I spoke English. Elder Pastor spoke spanish to her and I tried my best to understand everything. Suprisingly I caught a lot of things he was saying and was able to somewhat follow the conversation. It was awesome. This last Sunday we taught her again and we watched "The Testaments" which makes me cry at the end every time. Again we talked to her in spanish and I was able to bear my testimony in Spanish. Oh how awesome it was to speak another language and feel the same spirit that I had felt all my life. I felt as though my words were being guided as well, that even though I wasn't speaking my native tounge I still knew what to say. It was wonderful and I loved the feeling that I had the whole time.
Well, those where the main things that happened. Time to talk to you guys seperately now
Rachel: It was awesome to recieve a letter from you telling about your awesome experience in "SWEET HOME ALABAAAAMA!" heheh ^_^. I immediately was thrown back in time when you mentioned that you went horse back riding. I had a Sister in my MTC district that loved riding horses. She said that riding by yourself in the awesome scenery of the woods was like speeding around with your best friend. I hope that you felt that way too as you cantered along (yes I still remember some of the terms). I also like to comment on the way you discribed your experience with Uncle Jef. You sounded just like a well known author. You have great writing skills Rachel. Keep it up! Anyway I'm glad you had a great time and I hope to hear more from you. Keep up the good work and know that I love you very much. You have definately been there from me when I needed you. I don't think I can say those things enough ^_^.
Mom: I'm glad you had a great time with dad. Thanks so much for the spiritual thoughts. I love visualizing Jesus Christ's arms incircling us in our times of need whenever we need him. It's such a comforting feeling. Glad you guys got to feel young again and take a night out on the town with Dad rockin the bass. Sounds like fun and I miss hearing him play. It trully was a treat to hear him and his awesome skills. Well, I hope you have a great week mom. Hope everything i well with you, and I hope you don't get to stressed. One day at a time. I love you so much mom and I can't wait until Mother's day as well ^_^
Dad: Sounds like you had quite the hecktic week like me ^_^;. I hope your next weekend will be a little more relaxing. I'm glad you got to play Bass in front of a bunch of screaming fans. Woot! heheh ^_^;. Maybe not exactly, but still fun. You still considering doing that one man band thing? I really hope that works out. Oh! Speaking of which I don't think I've mentioned one of the members that I have been Teaching. His name is Micheal Skews and he used to be in a band called Fatel Attraction. He's met Motley Crue and Ted Nugent! He is so awesome! He is also a HUUUUUGE fan of Kiss. He's got all their murchandise and everything. Pin ball machines, belt buckles, you name it! Heheh just thought I would mention that. Well I hope you have a good week. I love you so much dad and I can't wait to get home and recieve a world class guitar solo to the face again XD.
well Family I love you to pieces! Hope everything will be EXCELLENT *Guitar solo*
-Elder Clark
P.S. "put them in the Iron Maiden"
"EXCELLENT"
"Execute them"
". . .booogus"
(this one is for Rachel)
"Ask what place I got!"
"Which?"
"THIS MANY!"
"Flat?"
"FIFTH DUMMY!"
Saturday, April 10, 2010
My First Baptism in the Field
Heeey Family,
Well Transfers came and gone and I am goooiiiiiiing no where :P. I'm staying here in Burbank for another 6 weeks with a new companion named Elder Pastor! He's from Spain! Sounds exciting eh? I'll let you guys know how he is. He's gonna be coming today from Van Nuys. I hope we will get along and that I can learn lots of spanish from him, since Elder Alldredge never served in a spanish area.
Anyway I bet you guys are dying to know how my baptism went! I'm telling you guys right now that it was the best day of my entire life. Right when I walked in and got dressed I began to erupt in excitement. My heart was racing and I just couldn't wait to perform that wonderful ordinance for Harper. I was also chosen to lead the music as well so it was quite a busy baptism for me ^_^;. Harpers Girlfriend (Alissa)'s, Dad gave the talk on the Baptism. It was a nice talk that was very well organized and much like the missionary discussion on baptism. He definately knew what he was talking about. Allisa spoke on the Holy Ghost and decided to share a couple of stories of her mission in Hong Kong. I'm so jelouse (yes I know I butchered the spelling) that she got to go to Hong Kong. She bore wonderful testimony of the reality and the wonderful gift of the Holy Ghost. The musical number was next. This guy played a basoon to this hymn (I really wish I could remember, but I can't. Don't worry I wrote all the details in my journal and saved the program). Anyway after the musical number it was time for the baptism.
I lead Harper into the water, I placed my hands in the right positions and I gave the prayer loud, clear, and slowly. After doing so, I plunged him into the water and brought him out. His first reaction was to look towards the glass where the children were and then at me. He almost seemed as though he were startled and a bit confused. I looked up into his eyes and saw absolute peace in his countenace. I offered a hug and he grabbed me squeezing me tightly. He gave two sobs and whispered "Thank you. . ." My heart was very full as I lead him out of the water and into the changing room. We changed in silence out of reverence of what just happened. Harper told me that this reminded him of Ian's Baptism (a baptism we took him to see before his baptism about 2 weeks ago) and how one of the speakers said that afterwards that Ian was the most sinless person on the planet. I replied to that statement saying "It's an awesome feeling huh?" He answered "Yeah, it has to be." We quickly finished and went back into the relief society room. There we listened to the last bit of my companion Elder Alldredge's testimony.
It was time for confirmation after Elder Alldredge's words. Allisa's dad did the comfirmation and it was very genuine and beautiful. Afterwords Harper got up hugged Allisa's Dad and shook hands with everyone else. I stuck out my hand for a handshake but he grabbed me and gave me a big hug instead. He's such a great guy ^_^
Harper had the oppurtunity to bear his testimony at the end. He told the story of his conversion and how before he felt alone and incomplete, but after meeting the missionaries he felt like it was right. He told of how he moved and then met us. He specifically commented on how I taught him to search for experiences that he can look for that will strengthen his relationship with Christ. He says that he has and that he was so grateful.
Guys, being able to see the absolute joy and peace that the Gospel of Jesus Christ can bring pretty much sealed my testimony. I cannot deny the truth of this church and the power that I hold as a priesthood holder. I am so grateful to have that power and to be able to see someone achieve absolute joy and peace in their lives by me exercising that power and bringing them unto Christ. I know this is a true church and that Chirst set the perfect example. By following his example we can live happier and fuller lives.
Alright time for some one on one
Mom: I'm glad that things are going well with work still. I still think it's awesome that you get to work with my boss. Bobby Stone is so awesome to work with. I kinda wish I could've worked harder now that I look back on it. I did do a lot, but I think I could've given more, but dwelling on the past never got me anywhere ^_^;;. I hope that you will be able to enjoy that job each day and view it as a pleasure rather than a burden.
I saw the pictures that Dad sent of the Beltmore mansion. Those are some awesome pictures, and you guys already look kind of different heh ^_^; It's gonna be wierd coming back and seeing what you guys look like after 2 years! Maybe Rachel will have grown out her hair! Woaah! heheh ^_^;. Anyway I love you mom and I hope all is going well for you
Dad: Thanks for the update on everything. I'm glad you are fixen the PA system problem. It sucks that you got a speeding ticket. Speeding tickets here aren't as common, but parking tickets OH MAN! Don't get me started. The other Elders get one every transfer. Sometimes it's hard to tell because street cleaners clean random streets and the signs aren't placed very well sometimes. Peh! But the speed trap things sounds way more annoying. Sorry to hear about that ^_^;
Thanks for sending the rackets! I will let you know if they get here on April 7th.
Good luck in Tomb Raider and GT4. I know how much you like those, despite your complaints sometimes heh ^_^. Have you checked out Final Fantasy XIII? I heard it's pretty dang amazing. Let me know if you get a chance to play it. I don't think you have got into any RPG's in a while have you? Heh get on it!
Well as always I love you Dad. I can't wait to see you again and play some sweet Tennis. Until THen!
Rachel: I hope that all is going well for you. I hope you have fun in Alabama with Kayla! Seems like you guys are really great friends. What about your boyfriend Braden? How is he doing? Heh fill me in sis. I love you so much Rachel. I miss you every day and I will never forget how much of a help you were to me. Always willing to listen to my complaints and stuff ^_^;. Take care Rachel and always do your best.
I love you all and I wish nothing but the best for you guys. I hope you guys have a wonderful week and will always remember the missionaries in your prayers. They need them. It's tough, but with Heavenly Father, anything is possible. Take Care and Live for the day!
-Elder Clark
Well Transfers came and gone and I am goooiiiiiiing no where :P. I'm staying here in Burbank for another 6 weeks with a new companion named Elder Pastor! He's from Spain! Sounds exciting eh? I'll let you guys know how he is. He's gonna be coming today from Van Nuys. I hope we will get along and that I can learn lots of spanish from him, since Elder Alldredge never served in a spanish area.
Anyway I bet you guys are dying to know how my baptism went! I'm telling you guys right now that it was the best day of my entire life. Right when I walked in and got dressed I began to erupt in excitement. My heart was racing and I just couldn't wait to perform that wonderful ordinance for Harper. I was also chosen to lead the music as well so it was quite a busy baptism for me ^_^;. Harpers Girlfriend (Alissa)'s, Dad gave the talk on the Baptism. It was a nice talk that was very well organized and much like the missionary discussion on baptism. He definately knew what he was talking about. Allisa spoke on the Holy Ghost and decided to share a couple of stories of her mission in Hong Kong. I'm so jelouse (yes I know I butchered the spelling) that she got to go to Hong Kong. She bore wonderful testimony of the reality and the wonderful gift of the Holy Ghost. The musical number was next. This guy played a basoon to this hymn (I really wish I could remember, but I can't. Don't worry I wrote all the details in my journal and saved the program). Anyway after the musical number it was time for the baptism.
I lead Harper into the water, I placed my hands in the right positions and I gave the prayer loud, clear, and slowly. After doing so, I plunged him into the water and brought him out. His first reaction was to look towards the glass where the children were and then at me. He almost seemed as though he were startled and a bit confused. I looked up into his eyes and saw absolute peace in his countenace. I offered a hug and he grabbed me squeezing me tightly. He gave two sobs and whispered "Thank you. . ." My heart was very full as I lead him out of the water and into the changing room. We changed in silence out of reverence of what just happened. Harper told me that this reminded him of Ian's Baptism (a baptism we took him to see before his baptism about 2 weeks ago) and how one of the speakers said that afterwards that Ian was the most sinless person on the planet. I replied to that statement saying "It's an awesome feeling huh?" He answered "Yeah, it has to be." We quickly finished and went back into the relief society room. There we listened to the last bit of my companion Elder Alldredge's testimony.
It was time for confirmation after Elder Alldredge's words. Allisa's dad did the comfirmation and it was very genuine and beautiful. Afterwords Harper got up hugged Allisa's Dad and shook hands with everyone else. I stuck out my hand for a handshake but he grabbed me and gave me a big hug instead. He's such a great guy ^_^
Harper had the oppurtunity to bear his testimony at the end. He told the story of his conversion and how before he felt alone and incomplete, but after meeting the missionaries he felt like it was right. He told of how he moved and then met us. He specifically commented on how I taught him to search for experiences that he can look for that will strengthen his relationship with Christ. He says that he has and that he was so grateful.
Guys, being able to see the absolute joy and peace that the Gospel of Jesus Christ can bring pretty much sealed my testimony. I cannot deny the truth of this church and the power that I hold as a priesthood holder. I am so grateful to have that power and to be able to see someone achieve absolute joy and peace in their lives by me exercising that power and bringing them unto Christ. I know this is a true church and that Chirst set the perfect example. By following his example we can live happier and fuller lives.
Alright time for some one on one
Mom: I'm glad that things are going well with work still. I still think it's awesome that you get to work with my boss. Bobby Stone is so awesome to work with. I kinda wish I could've worked harder now that I look back on it. I did do a lot, but I think I could've given more, but dwelling on the past never got me anywhere ^_^;;. I hope that you will be able to enjoy that job each day and view it as a pleasure rather than a burden.
I saw the pictures that Dad sent of the Beltmore mansion. Those are some awesome pictures, and you guys already look kind of different heh ^_^; It's gonna be wierd coming back and seeing what you guys look like after 2 years! Maybe Rachel will have grown out her hair! Woaah! heheh ^_^;. Anyway I love you mom and I hope all is going well for you
Dad: Thanks for the update on everything. I'm glad you are fixen the PA system problem. It sucks that you got a speeding ticket. Speeding tickets here aren't as common, but parking tickets OH MAN! Don't get me started. The other Elders get one every transfer. Sometimes it's hard to tell because street cleaners clean random streets and the signs aren't placed very well sometimes. Peh! But the speed trap things sounds way more annoying. Sorry to hear about that ^_^;
Thanks for sending the rackets! I will let you know if they get here on April 7th.
Good luck in Tomb Raider and GT4. I know how much you like those, despite your complaints sometimes heh ^_^. Have you checked out Final Fantasy XIII? I heard it's pretty dang amazing. Let me know if you get a chance to play it. I don't think you have got into any RPG's in a while have you? Heh get on it!
Well as always I love you Dad. I can't wait to see you again and play some sweet Tennis. Until THen!
Rachel: I hope that all is going well for you. I hope you have fun in Alabama with Kayla! Seems like you guys are really great friends. What about your boyfriend Braden? How is he doing? Heh fill me in sis. I love you so much Rachel. I miss you every day and I will never forget how much of a help you were to me. Always willing to listen to my complaints and stuff ^_^;. Take care Rachel and always do your best.
I love you all and I wish nothing but the best for you guys. I hope you guys have a wonderful week and will always remember the missionaries in your prayers. They need them. It's tough, but with Heavenly Father, anything is possible. Take Care and Live for the day!
-Elder Clark
Monday, April 5, 2010
2 transfers down!!
Hey Hey Family!
Another wonderful P-day and it's the last week before another transfer! Yep, that's right, next week is transfers and I think some things are going to go down. I think that I might be transfered out, or my companion might be transfered out. Either way I'll go wherever I need to go and do whatever I need to do ^_^.
Anyway this last week has been absolutely awesome!
We got a lot of lessons in this last week. We taught Harper and Alissa again. We taught them the 4th lesson which has all of the commandments and Harper was more than willing to keep them all. We then made plans for him to get his baptismal (spelling corrected hopefully ^_^;) interview the following Sunday, but before that we came by and taught him about temples as well. We talked about what is done and there and how we can help those who have passed on and are in the spirit world. He got really excited and thanked us for that lesson. He was wondering how things worked in the spirit world. He asked how people where taught in the spirit world and how they can recieve ordanances. D&C 186 (I think) Explains that exact thing very well and he really understood. Turns out he is really eager to do temple work for his father who has recently passed away. This guy is amazing! I absolutely love him. Here's the greatest news as well. This Sunday after his baptismal interview Harper came up to me and asked if I would be the one who would baptize him. I was absolutely honored to do so. You don't understand how AMAZINGLY excited I am. Ohhh man that day is going to take forever to get here. So the baptism is this Saturday between conference sessions (which I hope you guys will watch ;)) and I will take lots of pictures (which on a side note I'm thinking of sending the card home so that you guys can put them all on my blog or something because sending them by e-mail is just way to time consuming).
Anyway that was the highlight. Also this week we payed a visit to Sister Forrand again who is an 80 year old woman living in a retirement home. We have visited her many times and on this particular visit we re told the Joseph Smith story. At the end she offered to give to prayer again (which made me happy because like I have said in the past she gives the most genuine prayers I have ever heard) She gave lots of thanks to heavenly father for us to "visit an old woman" like herself. She really enjoyed the spirit and it really makes her happy when we come over. I assume that she doesn't get that many visitors at all. I am so happy that I can do that for someone, especially for a sole as lonely as hers. She really has inspired me to persue my medical career and to find charity events that I can help out in. She had worked as a nerse in St. Joseph's hospital. She told us a story of how she dressed up as a clown one day so that she could cheer up some of the patients. She would respond to people by only honking a horn. That story really warmed my heart and made me want to perform acts of service like that.
Well that's pretty much the highlights of my week. Guess I'll talk to you guys seperately
Mom: I'm so glad that you are enjoying your new job at DFS. Thank you for telling me about my students especially the Donahues (I don't know how to spell there name ^_^;) They are a really nice family and I hope that I can stay in touch with them. Tell them that I really miss them and their familiy. Tell LB and Micheal that I said hi and that I hope that they will soon get their 3rd degree so that they can be all caught up to me ^_^ heheh I bet they would like that. I'm glad you are having a great time with that.
Well as usual take care of yourself and know that I love you more than words can even discribe. You are always in my prayers and I wish only the best for you.
Dad: Sorry to hear about the PA system. Hopefully you can get stuff sorted out with that. Sorry to hear about the loss in the tennis match ^_^;. I've gotten to play some actually and I'm suprised how much of your teaching I have kept. I really can't wait to come back and whup you because I have been practicing on my mission :P heheh! I really can't wait to play tennis with you again dad. Those are some of my favorite memories with you. Hope works not killing ya. Hang in there. I love you!
Rachel: Hey rachel! I hope things are going good with school and Braaaady~. You guys go on that many dates yet? Anyway I love you so much Rachel. I hope you have a wonderful week.
Well family I hope you have a great week and know that I love you a lot. Wish me luck this next transfer. Make sure to feed the missionaries guys, and to give them lots of refferals. They are the Lord's messangers! Take care! Until next time!
-Elder Clark
Another wonderful P-day and it's the last week before another transfer! Yep, that's right, next week is transfers and I think some things are going to go down. I think that I might be transfered out, or my companion might be transfered out. Either way I'll go wherever I need to go and do whatever I need to do ^_^.
Anyway this last week has been absolutely awesome!
We got a lot of lessons in this last week. We taught Harper and Alissa again. We taught them the 4th lesson which has all of the commandments and Harper was more than willing to keep them all. We then made plans for him to get his baptismal (spelling corrected hopefully ^_^;) interview the following Sunday, but before that we came by and taught him about temples as well. We talked about what is done and there and how we can help those who have passed on and are in the spirit world. He got really excited and thanked us for that lesson. He was wondering how things worked in the spirit world. He asked how people where taught in the spirit world and how they can recieve ordanances. D&C 186 (I think) Explains that exact thing very well and he really understood. Turns out he is really eager to do temple work for his father who has recently passed away. This guy is amazing! I absolutely love him. Here's the greatest news as well. This Sunday after his baptismal interview Harper came up to me and asked if I would be the one who would baptize him. I was absolutely honored to do so. You don't understand how AMAZINGLY excited I am. Ohhh man that day is going to take forever to get here. So the baptism is this Saturday between conference sessions (which I hope you guys will watch ;)) and I will take lots of pictures (which on a side note I'm thinking of sending the card home so that you guys can put them all on my blog or something because sending them by e-mail is just way to time consuming).
Anyway that was the highlight. Also this week we payed a visit to Sister Forrand again who is an 80 year old woman living in a retirement home. We have visited her many times and on this particular visit we re told the Joseph Smith story. At the end she offered to give to prayer again (which made me happy because like I have said in the past she gives the most genuine prayers I have ever heard) She gave lots of thanks to heavenly father for us to "visit an old woman" like herself. She really enjoyed the spirit and it really makes her happy when we come over. I assume that she doesn't get that many visitors at all. I am so happy that I can do that for someone, especially for a sole as lonely as hers. She really has inspired me to persue my medical career and to find charity events that I can help out in. She had worked as a nerse in St. Joseph's hospital. She told us a story of how she dressed up as a clown one day so that she could cheer up some of the patients. She would respond to people by only honking a horn. That story really warmed my heart and made me want to perform acts of service like that.
Well that's pretty much the highlights of my week. Guess I'll talk to you guys seperately
Mom: I'm so glad that you are enjoying your new job at DFS. Thank you for telling me about my students especially the Donahues (I don't know how to spell there name ^_^;) They are a really nice family and I hope that I can stay in touch with them. Tell them that I really miss them and their familiy. Tell LB and Micheal that I said hi and that I hope that they will soon get their 3rd degree so that they can be all caught up to me ^_^ heheh I bet they would like that. I'm glad you are having a great time with that.
Well as usual take care of yourself and know that I love you more than words can even discribe. You are always in my prayers and I wish only the best for you.
Dad: Sorry to hear about the PA system. Hopefully you can get stuff sorted out with that. Sorry to hear about the loss in the tennis match ^_^;. I've gotten to play some actually and I'm suprised how much of your teaching I have kept. I really can't wait to come back and whup you because I have been practicing on my mission :P heheh! I really can't wait to play tennis with you again dad. Those are some of my favorite memories with you. Hope works not killing ya. Hang in there. I love you!
Rachel: Hey rachel! I hope things are going good with school and Braaaady~. You guys go on that many dates yet? Anyway I love you so much Rachel. I hope you have a wonderful week.
Well family I hope you have a great week and know that I love you a lot. Wish me luck this next transfer. Make sure to feed the missionaries guys, and to give them lots of refferals. They are the Lord's messangers! Take care! Until next time!
-Elder Clark
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Biking mishaps!!
Hi Family,
So this week was kind of a down week. Not much happened because we hit some snags and stuff.
My tire innertub BUSTED! I was so mad, but I guess it was bound to happen because we ride so often. Plus I kind of biffed it trying to bunny hop it onto the curb. Heh ^_^; guess I'm not a very good bicycle stunt man.
Anyway if I were to mention a couple things that happened I would mention that we taught Harper again! He had a friend over named Jef and he joined in on the lesson. During the week they got to be on the Price is Right, and guess what. HE WON! That's right. I know someone who WON on the Price is Right! I think he will be on TV on April or something so keep your eyes pealed for Harper on The Price is Right, because I'm teaching that guy! Heheh! Anyway, we teaching him the 4th lesson which is the commandments. The commandment we talked to him that day was Follow the Prophet. It was a great lesson and his friend Jef really liked it too. We taught him and then read an article in the Ensign where Thomas S. Monson talks about doing service and good deeds for people daily. I think the article is called "Have I done something today" or something along those lines. I can't remember ^_^;;. But it was really good and the spirit was very strong. By the end of the lesson I asked if he would commit to following the prophet. He answered "Absolutely" as if I was asking him an obvious question. Man I love this guy. He trully has felt the spirit manifest the truth to him, and him and his girlfriend Allisa could not be any happier. Seeing their happiness and their joy as we teach and they continue on their path has really strangthened my testimony of the gospel and how it can strangthen people and their relationship. I can just see the immense love Harper and Allisa have for each other, and I know they can't wait to be sealed in the temple with each other for all eternity. I can only imagine the joy that can be felt at that time in thier life. Anyway, Jef really enjoyed it too, and he wanted to get in contact with some missionaries! He lives in Indiana and he was visiting for Spring break. So we gave him some pass along cards and some phone numbers he could call. It was so great! Oh! and I forgot to mention that on that day I took the lead because we did exchanges and my trainer went into another area. It's pretty hectic, but it's not that hard once you do it a couple of times. It's really cool and I can't wait until missionary work beccomes as natural as breathing to me ^_^;. I think that will happen at about 6 or 9 months ^_^;.
Well besides that I got to visit Lancaster as well. The Zone leader needed me to go on splits with him so he could babtise someone he taught up in Lancaster. So I got to go. They were the most sincere and happy family I have met. The Grandmother hasen't even met me and she thanked me so much for being there. I said the pleasure was all mine, and that they were a very nice familiy. They said that they appreciated the missionaries "putting up" with their family. Their family are not very normal. They are very loud and boisterous and they even applauded when their son Dustin was babized, but I think it was ok, because that means that they are sincere, because that's just what they feel is right, and as long as they feel the spirit and are happy then I am. They are such a wonderful family. That babtism was such a wonderful babtism, and Lancaster is a pretty cool place. It's supposed to be all deserty and stuff, but since it's spring, it actually had a bit of grass on the hills and stuff. I also think I saw a place around the hills where they supposidly shot Planet of the Apes. Sweet!
Anyway time again to talk to you guys seprately ^_^
Mom: Glad to to hear everything is going great at DFS. I bet it's so wonderful to work for Bobby and the others. They are really great. I miss that job every day, because every day we have to ride past this Tae Kwon Do class calld "JK Tae Kwon Do" They are always practicing in there and I watch them and think. Man! I miss my old job ^_^;;. But I'm glad that you are keeping in touch with Bobby and them. Did I tell you that they sent me a card? It was really nice of them ^_^. I really apprecited it. I sent them a thank you card. I Believe I sent it to Wendy Heath's address, so let me know if she's gotten it or not. Anyway, hope things are going well. Try not to cry every time you play Rock Band XD. Only if your playing a really passionate song. Then it's ok XD. Ahh well I love you mom and I hope all is going well with you.
Dad: Nice to hear from you as always. Glad you had the oppurtunity to get an awesome PA system. I really admire your ability to get the most bang for your buck. Keep it up Dad! Anyway a lot of the questions you asked are actually very funny ones to answer so here we go.
Biking mishaps huh? Well my companion actually has a joke for that. THe first few weeks I ran into a pole getting back on the sidewalk. It's the pole with the little button you push to cross the street. It wasn't that bad, but it knocked my reflector off. That was on a Thursday (remember that). The other time I was trying to hop a curve, but my companion swerved in my way, and he was going slow, so I slowed down and instead of hopping the curve I merely did a little wheely and had my front tire hit the curve >_<. My companion asked if I was alright and I said "Yeah, sure I'm great." He laughed and replied mockingly "Yeah sure, I do this every Thursday! It's my normal Thursday crash nothing special!" Heheh he's such a funny guy ^_^. So yeah, those are the biking mishaps. My companion told a 15 year old girl in our ward about it and she thought it was so funny that she drew little pictures during sacrament meeting and gave them to me. I'll send those home as memories today. Heheh ^_^.
As far as eating is concerned. It's funny that you should mention Roasty-toasty-tasty-tarter-tuna sandwiches because I just bought a bunch of tuna at Cosco the other day. So i'm pretty much good for a couple of months! But yeah, that's pretty much it. Tuna sandwiches, chunky soap, and all that quick and easy stuff I eat for lunch. For dinner, the ward has been slackin a bit, but they feed us well. We got corned beef on St. Patties day and some cabbage. It was pretty interesting. Other then that, it's pretty regular american food. Lasagnia. Fajitas, and stuff along those lines.
Well, I think that's it. How does it feel to get the most attention :P. I love you Dad. I hope you have a great week.
Rachel: Looks like your gonna be doing some chores. As Nelson would say "HA HA!" Heheh. Have you written my companion yet? He's really interested to hear from you. Well take care this week. I love you
I love you all so much and I miss you guys. Especially when I go to babisms. I'm so greatful that I was babized and that you guys raised me so well. You mean so much to me, now more than ever and I can't wait to come home and see you guys again. Take Care! and Keep ROCKIN!!!
-Elder Clark
So this week was kind of a down week. Not much happened because we hit some snags and stuff.
My tire innertub BUSTED! I was so mad, but I guess it was bound to happen because we ride so often. Plus I kind of biffed it trying to bunny hop it onto the curb. Heh ^_^; guess I'm not a very good bicycle stunt man.
Anyway if I were to mention a couple things that happened I would mention that we taught Harper again! He had a friend over named Jef and he joined in on the lesson. During the week they got to be on the Price is Right, and guess what. HE WON! That's right. I know someone who WON on the Price is Right! I think he will be on TV on April or something so keep your eyes pealed for Harper on The Price is Right, because I'm teaching that guy! Heheh! Anyway, we teaching him the 4th lesson which is the commandments. The commandment we talked to him that day was Follow the Prophet. It was a great lesson and his friend Jef really liked it too. We taught him and then read an article in the Ensign where Thomas S. Monson talks about doing service and good deeds for people daily. I think the article is called "Have I done something today" or something along those lines. I can't remember ^_^;;. But it was really good and the spirit was very strong. By the end of the lesson I asked if he would commit to following the prophet. He answered "Absolutely" as if I was asking him an obvious question. Man I love this guy. He trully has felt the spirit manifest the truth to him, and him and his girlfriend Allisa could not be any happier. Seeing their happiness and their joy as we teach and they continue on their path has really strangthened my testimony of the gospel and how it can strangthen people and their relationship. I can just see the immense love Harper and Allisa have for each other, and I know they can't wait to be sealed in the temple with each other for all eternity. I can only imagine the joy that can be felt at that time in thier life. Anyway, Jef really enjoyed it too, and he wanted to get in contact with some missionaries! He lives in Indiana and he was visiting for Spring break. So we gave him some pass along cards and some phone numbers he could call. It was so great! Oh! and I forgot to mention that on that day I took the lead because we did exchanges and my trainer went into another area. It's pretty hectic, but it's not that hard once you do it a couple of times. It's really cool and I can't wait until missionary work beccomes as natural as breathing to me ^_^;. I think that will happen at about 6 or 9 months ^_^;.
Well besides that I got to visit Lancaster as well. The Zone leader needed me to go on splits with him so he could babtise someone he taught up in Lancaster. So I got to go. They were the most sincere and happy family I have met. The Grandmother hasen't even met me and she thanked me so much for being there. I said the pleasure was all mine, and that they were a very nice familiy. They said that they appreciated the missionaries "putting up" with their family. Their family are not very normal. They are very loud and boisterous and they even applauded when their son Dustin was babized, but I think it was ok, because that means that they are sincere, because that's just what they feel is right, and as long as they feel the spirit and are happy then I am. They are such a wonderful family. That babtism was such a wonderful babtism, and Lancaster is a pretty cool place. It's supposed to be all deserty and stuff, but since it's spring, it actually had a bit of grass on the hills and stuff. I also think I saw a place around the hills where they supposidly shot Planet of the Apes. Sweet!
Anyway time again to talk to you guys seprately ^_^
Mom: Glad to to hear everything is going great at DFS. I bet it's so wonderful to work for Bobby and the others. They are really great. I miss that job every day, because every day we have to ride past this Tae Kwon Do class calld "JK Tae Kwon Do" They are always practicing in there and I watch them and think. Man! I miss my old job ^_^;;. But I'm glad that you are keeping in touch with Bobby and them. Did I tell you that they sent me a card? It was really nice of them ^_^. I really apprecited it. I sent them a thank you card. I Believe I sent it to Wendy Heath's address, so let me know if she's gotten it or not. Anyway, hope things are going well. Try not to cry every time you play Rock Band XD. Only if your playing a really passionate song. Then it's ok XD. Ahh well I love you mom and I hope all is going well with you.
Dad: Nice to hear from you as always. Glad you had the oppurtunity to get an awesome PA system. I really admire your ability to get the most bang for your buck. Keep it up Dad! Anyway a lot of the questions you asked are actually very funny ones to answer so here we go.
Biking mishaps huh? Well my companion actually has a joke for that. THe first few weeks I ran into a pole getting back on the sidewalk. It's the pole with the little button you push to cross the street. It wasn't that bad, but it knocked my reflector off. That was on a Thursday (remember that). The other time I was trying to hop a curve, but my companion swerved in my way, and he was going slow, so I slowed down and instead of hopping the curve I merely did a little wheely and had my front tire hit the curve >_<. My companion asked if I was alright and I said "Yeah, sure I'm great." He laughed and replied mockingly "Yeah sure, I do this every Thursday! It's my normal Thursday crash nothing special!" Heheh he's such a funny guy ^_^. So yeah, those are the biking mishaps. My companion told a 15 year old girl in our ward about it and she thought it was so funny that she drew little pictures during sacrament meeting and gave them to me. I'll send those home as memories today. Heheh ^_^.
As far as eating is concerned. It's funny that you should mention Roasty-toasty-tasty-tarter-tuna sandwiches because I just bought a bunch of tuna at Cosco the other day. So i'm pretty much good for a couple of months! But yeah, that's pretty much it. Tuna sandwiches, chunky soap, and all that quick and easy stuff I eat for lunch. For dinner, the ward has been slackin a bit, but they feed us well. We got corned beef on St. Patties day and some cabbage. It was pretty interesting. Other then that, it's pretty regular american food. Lasagnia. Fajitas, and stuff along those lines.
Well, I think that's it. How does it feel to get the most attention :P. I love you Dad. I hope you have a great week.
Rachel: Looks like your gonna be doing some chores. As Nelson would say "HA HA!" Heheh. Have you written my companion yet? He's really interested to hear from you. Well take care this week. I love you
I love you all so much and I miss you guys. Especially when I go to babisms. I'm so greatful that I was babized and that you guys raised me so well. You mean so much to me, now more than ever and I can't wait to come home and see you guys again. Take Care! and Keep ROCKIN!!!
-Elder Clark
Friday, March 19, 2010
Holaaaaaaa
Heeeey Family!
So this week can be described in one word. GOLDEN!
Not much happened as far as finding is concerned, but the lessons me and Elder Alldredge got to teach this week was absolutely awesome.
First of all Elder Alldredge truly is a perfect companion. He has a very good grip on life in general and is an overall over achiever. I guess I should tell you guys a little about him. He truly is magnificent. 1st off he's an excellent foot ball player. He played as the start quarterback for his school in Orlando Florida for all 4 years. He got a scholarship to play football in College in West Virginia as well. He played as the quarterback on the practice squad, but if you think that's his only strength then you haven't seen anything yet! He also didn't get a SINGLE B in high school. That's right! ALL A's. He also got around a 2200 on his SAT's as well! Socially he is a master as well. He's able to tell the true intent of people, read body language, and manipulate conversations very well. I marvel and tell how much he has taught me, but yet he still feels inadequate. The only reason why is that for pretty much all his life he was inactive. It was only just VERY recently that he decided to serve a mission. He decided when he was 20 and before he wasn't going to church or practicing anything that was church related. He thought that he should serve though. He didn't know why, but he just knew that he must do it. So he went into the Mission not as prepared as he would like too. He was pretty much a primary kid walking into the mission field. He's a very fast learner though, and he was willing to give it a shot. His conversion to the gospel was amazing. He said that he was praying with an investigator who gave an absolutely sincere and pleading prayer, that it influenced him and made him feel the spirit. I remember the first 3 days he told me that story, and it touched me, and it made me envy him because he has found out what the difference is between having the spirit with you and not. Now he's an awesome and very down to earth missionary. He has taught me the value of respecting people for who they are and not judging them. He has also taught me a lot of how life is and the value of hard work. I much rather work as much as I can because sitting around doing nothing is totally lame! ^_^.
Anyway enough about my comp (wow I rambled a lot about him ^_^;;) Let me tell you guys about an absolutely wonderful guy named Harper. Me and Elder Alldredge were working our butts off. We were trying to find people who would at least go to church. All the potential investigators that we have now enjoy our visits, but haven't even tried going to church. Some take longer than others I suppose, but we weren't seeing that much success as far as people keeping commitments are concerned. 2 Sundays ago Harper and his Girlfriend (who was a member) Allisa approached me specifically and asked if Me and Elder Alldredge could give them the lessons. Yeah! Of coarse we could! We scheduled for the next day (Monday) at 6. We came to their house and gave them the 1st lesson, the restoration of the Gospel. When we asked him to read and pray about what we have taught him he said. "Oh yeah! I've already done that!" Turns out he has talked to missionaries already, and even got a book of Mormon, but didn't get a chance to be taught the lessons. He has such a great testimony, but doesn't know what about! It was absolutely amazing. I could see it in his eyes when I taught. I gave him Joseph Smith's account and he tears in his eyes. That was probably the best moment that I have had so far. He even told us that before he has had a dream of Joseph Smith! As well as God and Jesus appearing to him, he also saw a lamb. I thought that was very interesting and such a miracle. Anyway we set up a lesson for the next day! (Tuesday) We taught him the Plan of Salvation. After finishing. He commented that now he feels as though that his life has a map now. That being raised by his dad felt like he was being led, but on the edge of a cliff. I love the way he looks at things and how much he's receiving by his own efforts and studies. This guy has already read to about Jacob in the Book of Mormon! So during that lesson we extend a Baptismal date for April 3! He was extremely excited. He wants to get baptized so bad. Him and his girlfriend were looking at each other and just laughing with glee as he excepted this date. . . They were extraordinarily happy. It brought tears to my eyes for how happy they were. I absolutely love them for that, and I couldn't be happier for them. Last Sunday we taught them about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I felt prompted to thank him while teaching faith. His faith and his willingness to do what it takes to be closer with our Heavenly Father has truly strengthened my testimony. His love for his savior and his Father and heaven is truly evident and I feel it, even when I am simply sitting next to him during church. He smiled and was actually kind of surprised as I was thanking him for this, and he appreciated it. We taught the rest and invited him to come to a baptism that was being held on that same day. He came and I sat next to him. A 14 year old boy named Ian was being baptized and the Elders who converted him where the Zone Leaders who lived in my apartment. They watch over the Burbank 3rd ward. I am serving in the Burbank 2nd ward. Anyway that baptism was very nice. The youth got up and sang the EFY medley. The Elders also read "The Living Christ" with "I Believe in Christ" playing in the background. It really boasted my testimony of why I am here and what Christ has done for us. I love my savior and I am willing to do anything to show that to him. THAT is why I am here. So after wards Harper thanked us for inviting him and said that that was exactly what he wanted to see, and now he is more excited than ever to be baptized himself. The only problem I'm gonna see with this guy is that I think we are going to run out of things to teach him before April 3rd XD. He truly is a spiritual giant
Welp, I got 10 minutes. Gonna address you guys individually now
Rachel: Thank you so much for the letter. I hope everything is going well with Brady (that's actually the elders nick name, Elder Braden, who lives with me in the apartment) Just treat each other good and just be there for each other and relax! Take it easy! heheh ^_^. Anyway I hope you do well on your ACT. THat's the one you need to do good on if your thinking of going to BYU. Remember on the Science part to read the questions FIRST and then use the information to answer it. You will do better that way. Hope that helps ^_^. Anyway I hope you are doing well, and I really miss you as well. I'm glad that I am remember through the hardcore licks of METALLICA! heheh ^_^. I love you so much sis, and I can't wait to see you again some day. Until then *claps* GO TO BED! XD ohhh childhood inside jokes ^_^
Mom: I'm so glad that you have opportunity with better pay and an AWESOME boss. Master Stone is definitely a pleasure to work with and very easy to get along with. I miss him a lot and I hope that I can get back to training when I get back. To answer your questions. Yes I am trying to keep up with my Spanish as much as possible. You guys could send me CDs or books that might help if you want, because it can be kind of hard, but I'm pretty much just practicing out of the grammer books and reading Preach My Gospel or The Book of Mormon side by side. I've heard that helps a lot as well as listening to Spanish Music. Yes I've played my Ukulele every now and then. Not a lot of time to practice, but I still remember the cords and stuff. One of the Elders gave me a CD with Hawaiian LDS tunes which are SOOO AWESOME. It was written by an elder in this same mission. It even included a song about missionaries getting letters for girls XD. I should try see if I can send you a copy or something. It's really good. Yes I did get the pictures you sent. You guys looks so great, and Gavin takes really good pictures.
Dad: Congrats on the promotion. I hope things are going will for that. Your making me jealous by getting more Rock Band stuff >_< but I'll be able to play more of that later. For now MISSION WOOT ^(^o^)^. Oh and I forgot to congratulate you on finishing MGS (or maybe I didn't) Oh well. Anyway I'm trying to play some tennis out here too because there are elders who play. So if you want to send me a racket that would be awesome. Well take care Dad! I miss you alot
Well that's it for today. I have a lot of pictures but the computer doesn't work for this. I'll find a way though. I love you guys so much.
-Elder Clark
So this week can be described in one word. GOLDEN!
Not much happened as far as finding is concerned, but the lessons me and Elder Alldredge got to teach this week was absolutely awesome.
First of all Elder Alldredge truly is a perfect companion. He has a very good grip on life in general and is an overall over achiever. I guess I should tell you guys a little about him. He truly is magnificent. 1st off he's an excellent foot ball player. He played as the start quarterback for his school in Orlando Florida for all 4 years. He got a scholarship to play football in College in West Virginia as well. He played as the quarterback on the practice squad, but if you think that's his only strength then you haven't seen anything yet! He also didn't get a SINGLE B in high school. That's right! ALL A's. He also got around a 2200 on his SAT's as well! Socially he is a master as well. He's able to tell the true intent of people, read body language, and manipulate conversations very well. I marvel and tell how much he has taught me, but yet he still feels inadequate. The only reason why is that for pretty much all his life he was inactive. It was only just VERY recently that he decided to serve a mission. He decided when he was 20 and before he wasn't going to church or practicing anything that was church related. He thought that he should serve though. He didn't know why, but he just knew that he must do it. So he went into the Mission not as prepared as he would like too. He was pretty much a primary kid walking into the mission field. He's a very fast learner though, and he was willing to give it a shot. His conversion to the gospel was amazing. He said that he was praying with an investigator who gave an absolutely sincere and pleading prayer, that it influenced him and made him feel the spirit. I remember the first 3 days he told me that story, and it touched me, and it made me envy him because he has found out what the difference is between having the spirit with you and not. Now he's an awesome and very down to earth missionary. He has taught me the value of respecting people for who they are and not judging them. He has also taught me a lot of how life is and the value of hard work. I much rather work as much as I can because sitting around doing nothing is totally lame! ^_^.
Anyway enough about my comp (wow I rambled a lot about him ^_^;;) Let me tell you guys about an absolutely wonderful guy named Harper. Me and Elder Alldredge were working our butts off. We were trying to find people who would at least go to church. All the potential investigators that we have now enjoy our visits, but haven't even tried going to church. Some take longer than others I suppose, but we weren't seeing that much success as far as people keeping commitments are concerned. 2 Sundays ago Harper and his Girlfriend (who was a member) Allisa approached me specifically and asked if Me and Elder Alldredge could give them the lessons. Yeah! Of coarse we could! We scheduled for the next day (Monday) at 6. We came to their house and gave them the 1st lesson, the restoration of the Gospel. When we asked him to read and pray about what we have taught him he said. "Oh yeah! I've already done that!" Turns out he has talked to missionaries already, and even got a book of Mormon, but didn't get a chance to be taught the lessons. He has such a great testimony, but doesn't know what about! It was absolutely amazing. I could see it in his eyes when I taught. I gave him Joseph Smith's account and he tears in his eyes. That was probably the best moment that I have had so far. He even told us that before he has had a dream of Joseph Smith! As well as God and Jesus appearing to him, he also saw a lamb. I thought that was very interesting and such a miracle. Anyway we set up a lesson for the next day! (Tuesday) We taught him the Plan of Salvation. After finishing. He commented that now he feels as though that his life has a map now. That being raised by his dad felt like he was being led, but on the edge of a cliff. I love the way he looks at things and how much he's receiving by his own efforts and studies. This guy has already read to about Jacob in the Book of Mormon! So during that lesson we extend a Baptismal date for April 3! He was extremely excited. He wants to get baptized so bad. Him and his girlfriend were looking at each other and just laughing with glee as he excepted this date. . . They were extraordinarily happy. It brought tears to my eyes for how happy they were. I absolutely love them for that, and I couldn't be happier for them. Last Sunday we taught them about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I felt prompted to thank him while teaching faith. His faith and his willingness to do what it takes to be closer with our Heavenly Father has truly strengthened my testimony. His love for his savior and his Father and heaven is truly evident and I feel it, even when I am simply sitting next to him during church. He smiled and was actually kind of surprised as I was thanking him for this, and he appreciated it. We taught the rest and invited him to come to a baptism that was being held on that same day. He came and I sat next to him. A 14 year old boy named Ian was being baptized and the Elders who converted him where the Zone Leaders who lived in my apartment. They watch over the Burbank 3rd ward. I am serving in the Burbank 2nd ward. Anyway that baptism was very nice. The youth got up and sang the EFY medley. The Elders also read "The Living Christ" with "I Believe in Christ" playing in the background. It really boasted my testimony of why I am here and what Christ has done for us. I love my savior and I am willing to do anything to show that to him. THAT is why I am here. So after wards Harper thanked us for inviting him and said that that was exactly what he wanted to see, and now he is more excited than ever to be baptized himself. The only problem I'm gonna see with this guy is that I think we are going to run out of things to teach him before April 3rd XD. He truly is a spiritual giant
Welp, I got 10 minutes. Gonna address you guys individually now
Rachel: Thank you so much for the letter. I hope everything is going well with Brady (that's actually the elders nick name, Elder Braden, who lives with me in the apartment) Just treat each other good and just be there for each other and relax! Take it easy! heheh ^_^. Anyway I hope you do well on your ACT. THat's the one you need to do good on if your thinking of going to BYU. Remember on the Science part to read the questions FIRST and then use the information to answer it. You will do better that way. Hope that helps ^_^. Anyway I hope you are doing well, and I really miss you as well. I'm glad that I am remember through the hardcore licks of METALLICA! heheh ^_^. I love you so much sis, and I can't wait to see you again some day. Until then *claps* GO TO BED! XD ohhh childhood inside jokes ^_^
Mom: I'm so glad that you have opportunity with better pay and an AWESOME boss. Master Stone is definitely a pleasure to work with and very easy to get along with. I miss him a lot and I hope that I can get back to training when I get back. To answer your questions. Yes I am trying to keep up with my Spanish as much as possible. You guys could send me CDs or books that might help if you want, because it can be kind of hard, but I'm pretty much just practicing out of the grammer books and reading Preach My Gospel or The Book of Mormon side by side. I've heard that helps a lot as well as listening to Spanish Music. Yes I've played my Ukulele every now and then. Not a lot of time to practice, but I still remember the cords and stuff. One of the Elders gave me a CD with Hawaiian LDS tunes which are SOOO AWESOME. It was written by an elder in this same mission. It even included a song about missionaries getting letters for girls XD. I should try see if I can send you a copy or something. It's really good. Yes I did get the pictures you sent. You guys looks so great, and Gavin takes really good pictures.
Dad: Congrats on the promotion. I hope things are going will for that. Your making me jealous by getting more Rock Band stuff >_< but I'll be able to play more of that later. For now MISSION WOOT ^(^o^)^. Oh and I forgot to congratulate you on finishing MGS (or maybe I didn't) Oh well. Anyway I'm trying to play some tennis out here too because there are elders who play. So if you want to send me a racket that would be awesome. Well take care Dad! I miss you alot
Well that's it for today. I have a lot of pictures but the computer doesn't work for this. I'll find a way though. I love you guys so much.
-Elder Clark
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Hello again!!!
Heeey Family!
Well today not so much eventful with new investigators. We mainly tried to visit less active members and some elderly people to make sure everything is alright with them. It was pretty nice
Last night for dinner there was this really old lady who was SOooo funny! She randomly told us about how her brothers and sisters died in the same year, and we should our sorrow for her and one of the ladies said that she "was a trooper" she was slow and quite in her speach, but what she said next just made me laugh. She slowly picked her head up and very slowly said "I'm . . the . . energiizer . . bunny" Heheh she had a wonderful sense of humor that just worked for her XD. Everyone said that she always made little comments like that that were just on her mind. She told us the time when she was a Catholic and she saw the Catholic Priest drinking a lot of the whine and she said "You better stop drinking or you gonna fall flat on your face." Ha I wish I could've been there ^_^. . She then pulled me in a gave me a very slow grandma kiss on the cheek. Ahhh what a night ^_^.
Anyway Earlier in the week My comp got hit by a car. It wasn't very serious, it was just in the parking lot entrence to K-Mart. When He got hit he checked his pants and made sure he was ok and left. When I followed behind I noticed a dent in the car. I Told Elder Alldredge that he left a dent in the care and he immediately replied with "I won!?" . . . YEEEAH!" It was sooo halerious. He called EVERYONE in the distrect right there to brag how he dented this care on his bike. It was so funny XD.
We also visited this one other lady who's name was Sis. Forrand. She's less active, but only because she's embarassed to go out in public with missing teeth. She's going to get it fixed soon. This woman can talk. She told us lots of stories about her grandchildren and her days as a nurse for birthing babies. She told us these sad stories of babies dying and one being born without a head. Yikes! >_<. I told her I wanted to get into the medical field and she got very excited and grabbed my hand saying "Oh we need you!" For some reason that really struck deep into my soul. . . It was like heavenly Father was talking to me through her. It was crazy . . . But yeah that was awesome. She gave me a pamplet about FC (a genetic disorder of babies affecting the autonomatic nerve functions). We ended the visit with a Scripture in Matthiew 17 ( I hope that's the right one). Jesus heals a man who is a "lunatic" and the apostles asked why they weren't able to heal him. Jesus answered him and said that they didn't have enough faith and said that with faith they would have the power to move mountains and that nothing would be impossible. Sis. Forrand commented that mountains weren't just figurative. They could be metephorical mountains, representing our challenges and stresses in life. That really struck me as well because I never thought of it that way. This woman trully had the spirit strong in her heart. She wanted to give the prayer at the end. This... family, was the most sincere prayer I had ever heard in my life. She used words like "I want. . ." and "thanks" instead of the usual "Please bless. . ." She even told heavenly father that she saw her first lady bug today and thanked him for the spring weather and the planet earth that we have. It was such a wonderful prayer that almost brought me to tears. We said our good byes and we were on our way. What a wonderful visit.
The last awesome thing that happened was we visited Gabrial Mexicanos again. We went on splits and I visited him with the Stake President, President Clank. He was a pretty outspoken person, but when he taught, everything he said, every question that he asked, every scripture he shared was flawless and pertained to Gabrials problems almost exactly. The Spirit was trully present that night. Gabrial has had a very sketchy past having been dealing drugs and seen people die in gang wars. He's just recently decided to come back to church and the first day he came back he wanted a healing blessing from us. That was my first blessing with oil that I got to do in my life. It was pretty cool. But he wasn't sick, which was wierd. He just wanted the one having to do with healing the sick. We did it anyway to bring him comfort. Anyway, he is now afraid to recieve the priesthood or even take the sacrament because he feels as though he is not worthy, or that if he gets the priesthood and messes up he will go to hell. President Clank explained that it was a matter of choice and that we should consider the Eternal perspective. He also explained the Priesthood using the Doctrine and Covenants. Gabrial still felt unworthy. I asked him what he thought he needed to do to repent. He said that he had to fast for 4 days and probably go to the morg or something. I explained that repentence is easier than that. That all we need is to ask our heavenly father. He doesn't want to condem us or blame us. He wants to forgive us because he loves us. He said that me and him weren't in the same situations. I said that it doesn't matter. That EVERYONE can repent and it doesn't matter what it was. When I spoke to him like this I could really feel the spirit speaking through me. I bore my testimony and said that it is never too late, that we can all ask for repentence and be made clean. President Clank ended by sharing a scripture in 2 Nephi 4. This is an awesome chapter. This is where Nephi, A Prophet! was lamenting over his faults and follies and felt sorry about himself. Even Nephi felt like this! But he realized one crucial fact. That God is always there for us. He loves us and he wants to forgive us. By trusting him and putting all our faith in him we can be made whole and all of our weaknesses can be made strong. I have seen this in my mission. I have never known how many weaknesses I had until now, and by bringing them to my heavenly father I have seen a great improvement within such a short amount of time. He will provide for us family. I know he will.
Well please excuse me for not addressing you guys seperately. This e-mail took longer to write than I thought ^_^;. I hope you guys have a great week and know that I love you guys very much. That's another thing that I've learned. Family is so important. THey are ordained of god. I know this is true now more than ever. I feel kind of bad for not realizing this earlier and trying to spend more time with you guys. But we have a whole eternity to spend with each other so it will be alright. Take Care family and have an EXCELLENT week *Guitar Solo* !!!!
-Elder Clark
P.S. "Put them in the Iron Maiden"
"EXCELLENT!!!"
"Execute them!"
". . boogus. . "
Lol gotta love that movie ^_^
Well today not so much eventful with new investigators. We mainly tried to visit less active members and some elderly people to make sure everything is alright with them. It was pretty nice
Last night for dinner there was this really old lady who was SOooo funny! She randomly told us about how her brothers and sisters died in the same year, and we should our sorrow for her and one of the ladies said that she "was a trooper" she was slow and quite in her speach, but what she said next just made me laugh. She slowly picked her head up and very slowly said "I'm . . the . . energiizer . . bunny" Heheh she had a wonderful sense of humor that just worked for her XD. Everyone said that she always made little comments like that that were just on her mind. She told us the time when she was a Catholic and she saw the Catholic Priest drinking a lot of the whine and she said "You better stop drinking or you gonna fall flat on your face." Ha I wish I could've been there ^_^. . She then pulled me in a gave me a very slow grandma kiss on the cheek. Ahhh what a night ^_^.
Anyway Earlier in the week My comp got hit by a car. It wasn't very serious, it was just in the parking lot entrence to K-Mart. When He got hit he checked his pants and made sure he was ok and left. When I followed behind I noticed a dent in the car. I Told Elder Alldredge that he left a dent in the care and he immediately replied with "I won!?" . . . YEEEAH!" It was sooo halerious. He called EVERYONE in the distrect right there to brag how he dented this care on his bike. It was so funny XD.
We also visited this one other lady who's name was Sis. Forrand. She's less active, but only because she's embarassed to go out in public with missing teeth. She's going to get it fixed soon. This woman can talk. She told us lots of stories about her grandchildren and her days as a nurse for birthing babies. She told us these sad stories of babies dying and one being born without a head. Yikes! >_<. I told her I wanted to get into the medical field and she got very excited and grabbed my hand saying "Oh we need you!" For some reason that really struck deep into my soul. . . It was like heavenly Father was talking to me through her. It was crazy . . . But yeah that was awesome. She gave me a pamplet about FC (a genetic disorder of babies affecting the autonomatic nerve functions). We ended the visit with a Scripture in Matthiew 17 ( I hope that's the right one). Jesus heals a man who is a "lunatic" and the apostles asked why they weren't able to heal him. Jesus answered him and said that they didn't have enough faith and said that with faith they would have the power to move mountains and that nothing would be impossible. Sis. Forrand commented that mountains weren't just figurative. They could be metephorical mountains, representing our challenges and stresses in life. That really struck me as well because I never thought of it that way. This woman trully had the spirit strong in her heart. She wanted to give the prayer at the end. This... family, was the most sincere prayer I had ever heard in my life. She used words like "I want. . ." and "thanks" instead of the usual "Please bless. . ." She even told heavenly father that she saw her first lady bug today and thanked him for the spring weather and the planet earth that we have. It was such a wonderful prayer that almost brought me to tears. We said our good byes and we were on our way. What a wonderful visit.
The last awesome thing that happened was we visited Gabrial Mexicanos again. We went on splits and I visited him with the Stake President, President Clank. He was a pretty outspoken person, but when he taught, everything he said, every question that he asked, every scripture he shared was flawless and pertained to Gabrials problems almost exactly. The Spirit was trully present that night. Gabrial has had a very sketchy past having been dealing drugs and seen people die in gang wars. He's just recently decided to come back to church and the first day he came back he wanted a healing blessing from us. That was my first blessing with oil that I got to do in my life. It was pretty cool. But he wasn't sick, which was wierd. He just wanted the one having to do with healing the sick. We did it anyway to bring him comfort. Anyway, he is now afraid to recieve the priesthood or even take the sacrament because he feels as though he is not worthy, or that if he gets the priesthood and messes up he will go to hell. President Clank explained that it was a matter of choice and that we should consider the Eternal perspective. He also explained the Priesthood using the Doctrine and Covenants. Gabrial still felt unworthy. I asked him what he thought he needed to do to repent. He said that he had to fast for 4 days and probably go to the morg or something. I explained that repentence is easier than that. That all we need is to ask our heavenly father. He doesn't want to condem us or blame us. He wants to forgive us because he loves us. He said that me and him weren't in the same situations. I said that it doesn't matter. That EVERYONE can repent and it doesn't matter what it was. When I spoke to him like this I could really feel the spirit speaking through me. I bore my testimony and said that it is never too late, that we can all ask for repentence and be made clean. President Clank ended by sharing a scripture in 2 Nephi 4. This is an awesome chapter. This is where Nephi, A Prophet! was lamenting over his faults and follies and felt sorry about himself. Even Nephi felt like this! But he realized one crucial fact. That God is always there for us. He loves us and he wants to forgive us. By trusting him and putting all our faith in him we can be made whole and all of our weaknesses can be made strong. I have seen this in my mission. I have never known how many weaknesses I had until now, and by bringing them to my heavenly father I have seen a great improvement within such a short amount of time. He will provide for us family. I know he will.
Well please excuse me for not addressing you guys seperately. This e-mail took longer to write than I thought ^_^;. I hope you guys have a great week and know that I love you guys very much. That's another thing that I've learned. Family is so important. THey are ordained of god. I know this is true now more than ever. I feel kind of bad for not realizing this earlier and trying to spend more time with you guys. But we have a whole eternity to spend with each other so it will be alright. Take Care family and have an EXCELLENT week *Guitar Solo* !!!!
-Elder Clark
P.S. "Put them in the Iron Maiden"
"EXCELLENT!!!"
"Execute them!"
". . boogus. . "
Lol gotta love that movie ^_^
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