Yesterday was the end of an era. Bonnie finally finished working, perhaps never to have to work again. We both quit working at Legacy. It has been a couple of years at Legacy and three for Bonnie working. Things are changing, and will continue to change. Many changes coming into our lives.
A time ago, I met a young lady named Wendy. She has an illness that will end up taking her life. She is in pain much of the time, and has been almost all her life. Often she writes her INSIGHTS and sends them out to many people.
As I have been privileged to be one of those people, I am amazed at her wisdom, her knowledge of Spiritual things, and the insights into Eternal Principles. She just wrote me congratulating me on our upcoming mission. She commented that she was excited about finding out where we shall be called to serve.
Then she expressed her vision that she is also anxiously awaiting her "call." She knows that she has a mission to serve in the post mortal existence. I remember in one conference talk, death is like walking into a neighboring room. Well, Wendy will one day enter that room and start her mission there.
She commented that she will not be able to report her mission by way of blog to her loved ones, but she will be active, serving, loving, etc. She laments her leaving on that mission, leaving so many loved ones who have helped her, loved her, supported her and been inspired by her. She is ready to serve in another "room." Her call to service will be just as important, or more so, than our call. She will be serving Father and His Son, building up the Kingdom, furthering the work.
In her time in this mortality, she has applied herself to understanding the gospel. I heard her talk at a funeral a while ago, and I was totally amazed at her comprehension of the details, the mysteries, the workings of the Spirit. I have been amazed at her understanding of Spiritual things as she has shared her insights.
Since God is no respecter of persons, He will grant unto each of us the same knowledge, IF we apply our time and our study to it as Wendy has. Since few of us do, that makes Wendy a very unique daughter of our Father. She has influenced many people, and especially me in her shared thoughts and testimony.
As Wendy and Bon and I await our call, we will be sent to another location. We will serve with our all our time, testimony, talents, and dedication. We will feel joy, contentment, inspiration, and companionship with our Savior. Bonnie and I shall have the privilege of communing with our beloved fellow mortals. Wendy shall serve with all her time, testimony, talents and dedicaton. She will have the opportunity of communing with those who will greet her there in that specific "room." She won't share with mortal being except through Divine Blogs.
I would propose that though she worries about reporting her mission to her parents and others she loves, I would suggest that she will be able to do so through the Holy Ghost, using inspiration, dreams, feelings, and tender touches, and spirit to spirit. Those who know and love Wendy (To know her is to love her) will feel of her spirit since we are only a room apart. Perhaps there is a Spiritual Blog she will use, maybe even create one?
As you have wished us well dear Wendy, we wish you well on your upcoming mission. Our learning patience, our waiting, and our faith challenges are very similar, yours and ours. The nice comfort is knowing that Father knows us, loves us, and is in charge of our upcoming call to serve, one here, one in the next room. Thank you Wendy.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
DAY 10 --- The Process
Every day that goes by, it is interesting to understand that our future eighteen months is being determined. The location we will be, the people we will be working with, the weather, the mission president that will be directing us, etc, these things are being determined.
In Priesthood Meeting a few years ago, one of the apostles mentioned the process of deciding where a missionary would serve. Though my gray hair, my OLD age, and other things may not let me recollect it exactly, but I recall that the following happens:
The apostle takes the mission papers in his hands, and reviews the recommendations of the missionary committee. The missionary committee has already done their homework and lets the apostle know of possible matches. He take the papers in his hands, and of course with inspiration in his mind, he "knows" where the missionary should serve. There is no question, he just knows where they need to serve.
That is revelation. He is just a tool letting recorders know, and ultimately the missionary, or senior couple know where Christ would have them serve. I would assume he does not "see" all the reasons why they serve in a certain mission, he just knows and lets us know.
The call will be sent by mail to the future missionary. It is also sent my email to the bishop and stake president. They most often know before the missionaries know their field of labor.
When this happens within the next few days/weeks, the name of William Partridge and Bonnie Partridge will be presented before the Lord and he will inspire the authority where we shall go, what we shall do, and when we shall starting doing it.
We could help service men and women remain active while serving their country. We could help administer the Perpetual Education Fund. We could be called to a CES mission involving the youth and teaching, strengthening and activating. We could be called to a temple. We could be called to physical labor in some location, like Farr West, etc. We could be called to tourist sites. We could be called to any mission all over the world to help activate those who have fallen away. This is only a very partial list, for there are hundreds of different places and duties we may receive as our stewardship in the next years.
In Priesthood Meeting a few years ago, one of the apostles mentioned the process of deciding where a missionary would serve. Though my gray hair, my OLD age, and other things may not let me recollect it exactly, but I recall that the following happens:
The apostle takes the mission papers in his hands, and reviews the recommendations of the missionary committee. The missionary committee has already done their homework and lets the apostle know of possible matches. He take the papers in his hands, and of course with inspiration in his mind, he "knows" where the missionary should serve. There is no question, he just knows where they need to serve.
That is revelation. He is just a tool letting recorders know, and ultimately the missionary, or senior couple know where Christ would have them serve. I would assume he does not "see" all the reasons why they serve in a certain mission, he just knows and lets us know.
The call will be sent by mail to the future missionary. It is also sent my email to the bishop and stake president. They most often know before the missionaries know their field of labor.
When this happens within the next few days/weeks, the name of William Partridge and Bonnie Partridge will be presented before the Lord and he will inspire the authority where we shall go, what we shall do, and when we shall starting doing it.
We could help service men and women remain active while serving their country. We could help administer the Perpetual Education Fund. We could be called to a CES mission involving the youth and teaching, strengthening and activating. We could be called to a temple. We could be called to physical labor in some location, like Farr West, etc. We could be called to tourist sites. We could be called to any mission all over the world to help activate those who have fallen away. This is only a very partial list, for there are hundreds of different places and duties we may receive as our stewardship in the next years.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
DAY 11 --- We Wait For The Divine Call
As this day begins, it is different. Today, our missionary papers are in front of those who commune with Jehovah. Those inspired saints will be determining what Bonnie and I shall be doing for the next eighteen months. Up until now, we have been praying that our papers would get to where they are now. Now we pray that those who are involved with that decision will be directed from the head of this Church, even Jesus Christ, to call us to go and serve where we can do the most good in the work of the Kingdom.
It is humbling and sort of scary to realize that our future will soon be determined and where we serve will be directed by Divine Sources. We have been told that one of the apostles will be making the final decision. That creates many feelings in our hearts. Yes, the wait will be patience-teaching, but the knowledge of what I just posted is awe creating.
As I consider the position we are in now, I reflect on the many miracles that have brought us to this position. We went to Brigham City about eight years ago with visions in our mind about how the bowling alley and my work would provide the means to go on a mission. The sour economy came and destroyed that vision. We went into great debt to keep the business alive and had difficulty paying our mortgage.
I told my investor friends that the way to save the bowling alley would be to fire me and hire someone on commission. They did. I lost my job and searched for the next 18 months to find one. We didn't lose our home, but we sold it for many thousands of dollars below what we owed on it. Thus, enter more debt. We had no home, no job, no income and our mission felt like it was miles and eons away.
We have lived with three different children in the last few years, and finally found a job one year ago. Through many miracles, we will be out of debt in about two months. We will owe no one. Through a set of more miracles, we are waiting for our mission call to go and serve, to realize a very special dream of serving together as missionaries. Through our bishop, our children, my sisters, we will be able to serve where the Lord calls us. Through miraculous healing of some serious medical conditions, through special support of many, we are going to be missionaries "soon."
The prophet recently said that the Church needs more than 5000 senior couples in the mission field. I am sure that many senior couples are experiencing miracle after miracle to answer this call. No unhallowed hand shall stop it from going forward, especially when the Prophet issues a call to the members of the church. We have surely seen miracles.
Now we wait to see the location and timing of our upcoming service, the realizing of our dream, vision. We are humbled to be witnesses and experience His hand in our life. We, once again wait. We have had a dream/vision, worked toward the realization as Elder Holland counseled us long ago.
It is humbling and sort of scary to realize that our future will soon be determined and where we serve will be directed by Divine Sources. We have been told that one of the apostles will be making the final decision. That creates many feelings in our hearts. Yes, the wait will be patience-teaching, but the knowledge of what I just posted is awe creating.
As I consider the position we are in now, I reflect on the many miracles that have brought us to this position. We went to Brigham City about eight years ago with visions in our mind about how the bowling alley and my work would provide the means to go on a mission. The sour economy came and destroyed that vision. We went into great debt to keep the business alive and had difficulty paying our mortgage.
I told my investor friends that the way to save the bowling alley would be to fire me and hire someone on commission. They did. I lost my job and searched for the next 18 months to find one. We didn't lose our home, but we sold it for many thousands of dollars below what we owed on it. Thus, enter more debt. We had no home, no job, no income and our mission felt like it was miles and eons away.
We have lived with three different children in the last few years, and finally found a job one year ago. Through many miracles, we will be out of debt in about two months. We will owe no one. Through a set of more miracles, we are waiting for our mission call to go and serve, to realize a very special dream of serving together as missionaries. Through our bishop, our children, my sisters, we will be able to serve where the Lord calls us. Through miraculous healing of some serious medical conditions, through special support of many, we are going to be missionaries "soon."
The prophet recently said that the Church needs more than 5000 senior couples in the mission field. I am sure that many senior couples are experiencing miracle after miracle to answer this call. No unhallowed hand shall stop it from going forward, especially when the Prophet issues a call to the members of the church. We have surely seen miracles.
Now we wait to see the location and timing of our upcoming service, the realizing of our dream, vision. We are humbled to be witnesses and experience His hand in our life. We, once again wait. We have had a dream/vision, worked toward the realization as Elder Holland counseled us long ago.
Monday, May 28, 2012
DAY 12 -- The P Word
It is such a relief that our papers are now in the hands of the Church. Everything has been done on the local level. All interviews, all other things, and again we start the waiting.
Bonnie, today after our interview, has said, "I want to go there." And the "theres" she has mentioned are about fifteen different places. She is excited. She is planning on our next eighteen months. She has it all planned out.
As I said before, when we are planning on going on vacation, or a weekend away, or even an hour away, Bon plans the whole thing. She has stated over and over again that the planning is the BIG thing about it all, even more than going.
So she is ready to plan our next eighteen months without knowing where or when. That is good. Except her plans will have to be modified many times I am sure. But she doesn't care and is excited to make those plans.
So our waiting for our papers to be in, is over. Now another kind of waiting is starting. When we do finally get our call, when we know where are going, another kind of waiting will begin. Isn't it interesting that there is so many different stages of waiting for the privilege of going on our mission? So many dear ones have looked me in the eyes and mentioned one word, "patience." We submitted our papers eight weeks ago. Now they are where I thought they would be eight weeks ago.
Anyone who knows me knows that I have had problems of slowing down, being patient, and waiting, waiting, waiting. I don't know if everyone else is plagued with that concept, but I am being "blessed" with opportunities of being patient everywhere I turn, throughout my life.
Yes, we are told that endurance is a major challenge in this mortality. But isn't there patience in endurance? Isn't that what it is all about? Isn't faith, the first principle of the gospel, also lined with patience also? Loving our neighbors is also surrounded in patience. Being in leadership is also blessed with patience.
It is sure interesting to me how patience is contained in many aspect of this gospel, many aspects of life, and especially in the attributes of Godhood. Guess I need to concentrated on learning patience, for I am sure we will be surrounded with patience throughout our missionary life.
Bonnie, today after our interview, has said, "I want to go there." And the "theres" she has mentioned are about fifteen different places. She is excited. She is planning on our next eighteen months. She has it all planned out.
As I said before, when we are planning on going on vacation, or a weekend away, or even an hour away, Bon plans the whole thing. She has stated over and over again that the planning is the BIG thing about it all, even more than going.
So she is ready to plan our next eighteen months without knowing where or when. That is good. Except her plans will have to be modified many times I am sure. But she doesn't care and is excited to make those plans.
So our waiting for our papers to be in, is over. Now another kind of waiting is starting. When we do finally get our call, when we know where are going, another kind of waiting will begin. Isn't it interesting that there is so many different stages of waiting for the privilege of going on our mission? So many dear ones have looked me in the eyes and mentioned one word, "patience." We submitted our papers eight weeks ago. Now they are where I thought they would be eight weeks ago.
Anyone who knows me knows that I have had problems of slowing down, being patient, and waiting, waiting, waiting. I don't know if everyone else is plagued with that concept, but I am being "blessed" with opportunities of being patient everywhere I turn, throughout my life.
Yes, we are told that endurance is a major challenge in this mortality. But isn't there patience in endurance? Isn't that what it is all about? Isn't faith, the first principle of the gospel, also lined with patience also? Loving our neighbors is also surrounded in patience. Being in leadership is also blessed with patience.
It is sure interesting to me how patience is contained in many aspect of this gospel, many aspects of life, and especially in the attributes of Godhood. Guess I need to concentrated on learning patience, for I am sure we will be surrounded with patience throughout our missionary life.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
Day 13 SECOND POST - today SUNDAY
In the last many days, I have been lamenting that we are waiting, waiting, and telling how we feel in that waiting. Now after we have had our call to meet with our Stake President, it is interesting to analyze the new feeling I have felt, and I am sure Bon feels the same way.
It is a quiet reverence, knowing that we will meet with the President and then get our desires before those who decide our fate for the coming 18 months.
Well, we did meet with him. It was a wonderful experience being evaluated by our Stake President whether we are worthy to go and represent the Lord as a missionary. Of course, Bonnie cried. We expressed our reasons why we wanted to go on a mission. It was totally a wonderful experience with him.
While we were there, he submitted the papers. He showed us that the Church Headquarters had received our papers on May 27th, today. I asked him how long it would be and he said between ten days and twenty days, or a week to three.
Now we wait again. Yes we are excited taking another step, doing what we need to do, leaving it in the Lord's hands. Still wondering when we go and where. But that will come. It is out of our hands now.
It is a quiet reverence, knowing that we will meet with the President and then get our desires before those who decide our fate for the coming 18 months.
Well, we did meet with him. It was a wonderful experience being evaluated by our Stake President whether we are worthy to go and represent the Lord as a missionary. Of course, Bonnie cried. We expressed our reasons why we wanted to go on a mission. It was totally a wonderful experience with him.
While we were there, he submitted the papers. He showed us that the Church Headquarters had received our papers on May 27th, today. I asked him how long it would be and he said between ten days and twenty days, or a week to three.
Now we wait again. Yes we are excited taking another step, doing what we need to do, leaving it in the Lord's hands. Still wondering when we go and where. But that will come. It is out of our hands now.
DAY 13 -- Forty, A Significant Number - S. President
The children of Israel were in the wilderness wandering and eating manna for forty years. Moses was in the mount forty days and nights. Jonah waited for Nineveh to be overthrown for forty days. Christ fasted forty days and nights. In Luke it tells us that Christ was tempted for forty days. Paul said that he received forty stripes five time, save one. Bonnie and I will have been married in thirteen days for forty years. Perhaps we shall be waiting forty weeks for our next interview?
About one month ago, Bonnie and I went for a walk above where we live. We talked about our mission and our patience. Well, we went again yesterday morning and walked the same path. We said that perhaps in another month or so, we would again be walking up there wondering if one day in the future we will be interviewed, or one day we will get our call.
When we get into the frame of mind when we realize that soon it will have been two months since we submitted our paper to our bishop, when we get frustrated knowing that Orrin Hatch has my phone number but perhaps the stake president does not, when we get frustrated waiting to further our preparation for our mission, the sweet calming revelation or inspiration comes into our minds telling us the He is in charge, He knows what He is doing, and one day, or not, we may know the reasons why it delayed as it has.
We entered our wilderness of free association, or our room that we have been given by my son to store things, and started organizing. It has to be done, and when or where we go is not going to change the work that has to be done. So we decided to tackle it, throw things, decide what we are going to do, and free up our lives.
There is hope smiling BRIGHTLY before us and we know that our interview is coming. Every day it is one day closer, and thus so is our mission call. It is coming. (I wrote that on Saturday, in readiness for Sunday's post.)
NEWS BREAK: Today, Saturday at 1:30, I received a call from the Stake President and we are meeting with him tomorrow, Sunday at 9:40 after Sacrament Meeting.
About one month ago, Bonnie and I went for a walk above where we live. We talked about our mission and our patience. Well, we went again yesterday morning and walked the same path. We said that perhaps in another month or so, we would again be walking up there wondering if one day in the future we will be interviewed, or one day we will get our call.
When we get into the frame of mind when we realize that soon it will have been two months since we submitted our paper to our bishop, when we get frustrated knowing that Orrin Hatch has my phone number but perhaps the stake president does not, when we get frustrated waiting to further our preparation for our mission, the sweet calming revelation or inspiration comes into our minds telling us the He is in charge, He knows what He is doing, and one day, or not, we may know the reasons why it delayed as it has.
We entered our wilderness of free association, or our room that we have been given by my son to store things, and started organizing. It has to be done, and when or where we go is not going to change the work that has to be done. So we decided to tackle it, throw things, decide what we are going to do, and free up our lives.
There is hope smiling BRIGHTLY before us and we know that our interview is coming. Every day it is one day closer, and thus so is our mission call. It is coming. (I wrote that on Saturday, in readiness for Sunday's post.)
NEWS BREAK: Today, Saturday at 1:30, I received a call from the Stake President and we are meeting with him tomorrow, Sunday at 9:40 after Sacrament Meeting.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
DAY 14 -- Two Weeks is All
This morning I was reading in 3 Nephi about the time immediately preceding the appearance of the Savior. It is interesting to me that after all the destruction, after three days of mourning for lost ones, devastation, and darkness, when the "lights came on," the weeping, mourning, and lamentation did cease and it was replaced with joy.
They must have forgotten their brother, sister, aunt, grandfather, etc that had been destroyed because of wickedness and started feeling joy, happiness, and relief that they were still alive. At least in the scripture, it was immediate. That part has always been intriguing to me. Stop crying over spilt milk. Don't sweat the small things. Don't let things of the past influence you, look toward the future.
It is interesting to me to see the change of focus. One minute, for three days they were howling, weeping, depressed, focusing on the destruction and the loss of life, the darkness and their misery. Then all of a sudden, when Christ appeared, when the light returned, when the destruction could be seen and "appreciated" they stopped focusing on the negative, the change they saw all around them, the surprise they witnessed, even though the devastation was all over, they started focusing on the sunlight, the amazement that they lived through it all, and the prophesy they remembered about Christ. They turned their focus to those things that really mattered.
I would imagine that something very distantly similar will happen when we finally get a call. Instead of focusing on the delay, the waiting, the eight weeks since submitting our papers, the challenge we face daily, we will change our focus on the light, the upcoming privilege of serving, etc.
From weeping and mourning to joy and happiness in a moment. What is our focus daily? What should it be? No matter the circumstances, I need to focus on the things that really matter, the things that have Eternal Consequences. I have been focusing on the wait, not the coming joy.
Miracle: I have been walking every day again for about a week, after that regression I had for about one week.
Two weeks until M day. I still think it might be possible to have our call by that date. But I shan't focus on that, but on the events following our mission call. I avoided focusing on the anticipated days as missionaries out of self preservation. Is that wrong? Should I continue to dream of, anticipate, plan for and joy over the days coming?
They must have forgotten their brother, sister, aunt, grandfather, etc that had been destroyed because of wickedness and started feeling joy, happiness, and relief that they were still alive. At least in the scripture, it was immediate. That part has always been intriguing to me. Stop crying over spilt milk. Don't sweat the small things. Don't let things of the past influence you, look toward the future.
It is interesting to me to see the change of focus. One minute, for three days they were howling, weeping, depressed, focusing on the destruction and the loss of life, the darkness and their misery. Then all of a sudden, when Christ appeared, when the light returned, when the destruction could be seen and "appreciated" they stopped focusing on the negative, the change they saw all around them, the surprise they witnessed, even though the devastation was all over, they started focusing on the sunlight, the amazement that they lived through it all, and the prophesy they remembered about Christ. They turned their focus to those things that really mattered.
I would imagine that something very distantly similar will happen when we finally get a call. Instead of focusing on the delay, the waiting, the eight weeks since submitting our papers, the challenge we face daily, we will change our focus on the light, the upcoming privilege of serving, etc.
From weeping and mourning to joy and happiness in a moment. What is our focus daily? What should it be? No matter the circumstances, I need to focus on the things that really matter, the things that have Eternal Consequences. I have been focusing on the wait, not the coming joy.
Miracle: I have been walking every day again for about a week, after that regression I had for about one week.
Two weeks until M day. I still think it might be possible to have our call by that date. But I shan't focus on that, but on the events following our mission call. I avoided focusing on the anticipated days as missionaries out of self preservation. Is that wrong? Should I continue to dream of, anticipate, plan for and joy over the days coming?
Friday, May 25, 2012
DAY 15 -- HE KNOWS
As I continue to count down the days until M day, or June 9th, it is becoming more and more likely that we will not have our mission call by then either. No, no interview yet, just a call from Senator Hatch's office.
Bonnie has about a week to drive and then she is done. She has told those she works for that she will not be here this fall and they would need to get a replacement. Perhaps she was a bit hasty. Perhaps we will be here waiting for that interview. She drives handicapped kids, and the company has just obtatined the contract to drive in Hawaii. Perhaps we should volunteer to drive in Hawaii while we wait. But then again, when we get our call, we may be shipped to Hawaii?
I know I keep harping on this, but our mission does really seem like a figment of my imagination. I mean, we hurried and got the interviews, the medical attention, and did all we could do, and now it has been more than seven weeks, approaching two months. Someday we may realize the why's and when's, but at least right now, it is hard to even think of serving, since it is delaying for some divine reason?
Is my faith wavering? Of course not. Do I still want to go? Of course. Am I still ready and prepared? Yes, a thousand times yes. Is my upcoming mission constantly in my mind. NO! I believe it is for self preservation that I must hide those thoughts away. It is something desired and has been for many years. Now that we have done all we can do, we wait. It is truly difficult. Bon and I often joke about the delay. But the challenge is a challenge. We can't make long range plans. We cannot plan our late summer nor fall, for we know not where we will be.
I know there are good reasons, and perhaps they are just to teach me patience once again, or still, or beat it into my head. One day, perhaps after mortality, we shall totally understand the reasons for this delay. I know that. So, I must self talk myself into that, knowing that He knows, and that is all that matters, right?
Of late, I have had this feeling that our interview is coming. It is not far distant, and "soon" we shall be seated in front of our stake president.
Last night, I have another call from Orrin Hatch, this time it was a recording of him, not his workers. I guess we are becoming "close" based on the times he calls me. I guess I should meet him for lunch one day, right?
Bonnie has about a week to drive and then she is done. She has told those she works for that she will not be here this fall and they would need to get a replacement. Perhaps she was a bit hasty. Perhaps we will be here waiting for that interview. She drives handicapped kids, and the company has just obtatined the contract to drive in Hawaii. Perhaps we should volunteer to drive in Hawaii while we wait. But then again, when we get our call, we may be shipped to Hawaii?
I know I keep harping on this, but our mission does really seem like a figment of my imagination. I mean, we hurried and got the interviews, the medical attention, and did all we could do, and now it has been more than seven weeks, approaching two months. Someday we may realize the why's and when's, but at least right now, it is hard to even think of serving, since it is delaying for some divine reason?
Is my faith wavering? Of course not. Do I still want to go? Of course. Am I still ready and prepared? Yes, a thousand times yes. Is my upcoming mission constantly in my mind. NO! I believe it is for self preservation that I must hide those thoughts away. It is something desired and has been for many years. Now that we have done all we can do, we wait. It is truly difficult. Bon and I often joke about the delay. But the challenge is a challenge. We can't make long range plans. We cannot plan our late summer nor fall, for we know not where we will be.
I know there are good reasons, and perhaps they are just to teach me patience once again, or still, or beat it into my head. One day, perhaps after mortality, we shall totally understand the reasons for this delay. I know that. So, I must self talk myself into that, knowing that He knows, and that is all that matters, right?
Of late, I have had this feeling that our interview is coming. It is not far distant, and "soon" we shall be seated in front of our stake president.
Last night, I have another call from Orrin Hatch, this time it was a recording of him, not his workers. I guess we are becoming "close" based on the times he calls me. I guess I should meet him for lunch one day, right?
Thursday, May 24, 2012
DAY 16 --- Hope Smiling Brightly
Well, it happened again. I was minding my own business and a phone call came in. I looked at the number and had a TINY little hope that it may be the executive secretary of the Stake President. It was the office of Orrin Hatch asking me if we were going to vote for him.
I had three people ask me in ten minutes when we were going to get that interview and receive our call. What can I say to them? Nothing, just say that we are waiting. We are waiting.
I see the influence of the adversary in my life. Little things seem to happen, which I seem to dwell upon taking the Spirit away from my heart. I lament the time we are waiting for our last interview. I feel saddened that we cannot go and serve as we so desire.
I want to feel comfort, joy, peace, and hope in the future, but it is fleeting. Sunday I encouraged those I home teach to consider the words, "...hope smiling brightly before us..." Then I asked them what hymn that came from. Consider hope smiling... What a concept. I need to find that hope and have it smile for me. Hope of our interview. Hope of being called to somewhere. Hope that we can serve full time in His service somewhere in the world. (Is it really coming?)
Hope needs to smile in my life, especially in these days of waiting, anticipating, and expecting. It is, again, up to me to find that hope, and incorporate it into my life.
I had three people ask me in ten minutes when we were going to get that interview and receive our call. What can I say to them? Nothing, just say that we are waiting. We are waiting.
I see the influence of the adversary in my life. Little things seem to happen, which I seem to dwell upon taking the Spirit away from my heart. I lament the time we are waiting for our last interview. I feel saddened that we cannot go and serve as we so desire.
I want to feel comfort, joy, peace, and hope in the future, but it is fleeting. Sunday I encouraged those I home teach to consider the words, "...hope smiling brightly before us..." Then I asked them what hymn that came from. Consider hope smiling... What a concept. I need to find that hope and have it smile for me. Hope of our interview. Hope of being called to somewhere. Hope that we can serve full time in His service somewhere in the world. (Is it really coming?)
Hope needs to smile in my life, especially in these days of waiting, anticipating, and expecting. It is, again, up to me to find that hope, and incorporate it into my life.
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
DAY 17 -- Pot Pour EEE, Pought - poor - yee?
I believe that means, "Many colors in the rainbow" or something like, "I can't make up my mind what to blog about today," or maybe even, "I have many different subjects to mention today." I am sure I spelled it wrong, but something to do with variety, different things, nothing of import, etc.
When I put on my pants this morning, that poor little button is sure doing a mammoth job holding all that gut fat inside. I hope it does not come popping off, flying across the room and injure someone. I just can't seem to get that gut smaller. I am following many rules, not eating as much, but seem to remain fat and blessed? with a fat gut.
I sure love the Book of Mormon. As I was reading it today, I felt the Spirit of the book descending upon my spirit, giving me calm, peace, and assurance about our mission call, that is it in His hands. This wonderful book has the ability to give that peace and comfort every day it is read. Love it.
My grandson said today that the shortest scripture in the Book of Mormon was: Alma 30:38. I would assume that not many know that. It is twice as long as the one in the bible, "Jesus Wept."
The future, upcoming mission in my mind at least is beginning to return to that reserved position in my mind, far in the back where the cob webs are located, seldom to be looked at, as we continue to wait. Is this thing we call a mission real?
When I do cast off those cobwebs, often my mind flies back to the video I saw created by the church about the saints in Africa waiting for the Priesthood to be given to the Negro. It is a wonderful history and one that makes me excited about going to Africa.
Another grandson was in Church Sunday and was asked to guess where Bon and I will go on our mission. He was promised that he would get a candy bar if he guesses right. He guessed that we would go somewhere in this world. He promptly gave us a long list of candy he knew he was going to win. When asked if we go to the moon, he would not win anything, he said then we could teach the aliens from other planet who were visiting, but he knew that grandma would still award him a prize... Isn't that grandmas are for?
What am I going to do in seventeen days and nothing has happened? This has been the count down for our mission. If we are still waiting (we will be one way or the other) then perhaps I will need to decide what to do with this blog. Will this blog be interesting to others who are considering going on a mission? Will this blog just be informative for our family. Will this blog suffer what most things in the cyber space suffer, a grave in the "delete" graveyard? It really doesn't matter. I would imagine in 17 days, I will know more than I know now about what should be done, what is happening, and where we are going? Perhaps not!
Last night I was a grand sons program and since I am sort of expecting a phone call, I had someone call me, vibrate and I quickly left to answer the call. As I returned the call, once again it was Orrin Hatch's office. Is it a sign? That happened before, but what it is a sign of, who knows. Perhaps we will be called to Washington to be his aide?
When I put on my pants this morning, that poor little button is sure doing a mammoth job holding all that gut fat inside. I hope it does not come popping off, flying across the room and injure someone. I just can't seem to get that gut smaller. I am following many rules, not eating as much, but seem to remain fat and blessed? with a fat gut.
I sure love the Book of Mormon. As I was reading it today, I felt the Spirit of the book descending upon my spirit, giving me calm, peace, and assurance about our mission call, that is it in His hands. This wonderful book has the ability to give that peace and comfort every day it is read. Love it.
My grandson said today that the shortest scripture in the Book of Mormon was: Alma 30:38. I would assume that not many know that. It is twice as long as the one in the bible, "Jesus Wept."
The future, upcoming mission in my mind at least is beginning to return to that reserved position in my mind, far in the back where the cob webs are located, seldom to be looked at, as we continue to wait. Is this thing we call a mission real?
When I do cast off those cobwebs, often my mind flies back to the video I saw created by the church about the saints in Africa waiting for the Priesthood to be given to the Negro. It is a wonderful history and one that makes me excited about going to Africa.
Another grandson was in Church Sunday and was asked to guess where Bon and I will go on our mission. He was promised that he would get a candy bar if he guesses right. He guessed that we would go somewhere in this world. He promptly gave us a long list of candy he knew he was going to win. When asked if we go to the moon, he would not win anything, he said then we could teach the aliens from other planet who were visiting, but he knew that grandma would still award him a prize... Isn't that grandmas are for?
What am I going to do in seventeen days and nothing has happened? This has been the count down for our mission. If we are still waiting (we will be one way or the other) then perhaps I will need to decide what to do with this blog. Will this blog be interesting to others who are considering going on a mission? Will this blog just be informative for our family. Will this blog suffer what most things in the cyber space suffer, a grave in the "delete" graveyard? It really doesn't matter. I would imagine in 17 days, I will know more than I know now about what should be done, what is happening, and where we are going? Perhaps not!
Last night I was a grand sons program and since I am sort of expecting a phone call, I had someone call me, vibrate and I quickly left to answer the call. As I returned the call, once again it was Orrin Hatch's office. Is it a sign? That happened before, but what it is a sign of, who knows. Perhaps we will be called to Washington to be his aide?
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
DAY 18 -- All Things Are His
Sunday while I was home teaching, one sister told me of a young mother who had just given birth to a baby and she acquired a staff infection and immediately died. She left three small kids, including the infant. So sad. This wonderful sister was totally broken up.
At work, one of our teachers just buried a daughter who was about thirty years younger. (No one should ever have to bury their child, but it does happen.) Then the ex-husband of the one who died, also died two days later.
I am reminded of 2 Nephi 2:24 where it says all things have been done in God's wisdom. Adding to the deaths of these people and trying to make sense out of the disease MS, I am reminded that often there are just not answers, reasons, or comfort when we, in mortality, try to come to grips with events, disease, and so many other things. Mortality is a school, a time to learn, grow, draw closer to Father and strengthen testimony. Even all these events we do not understand, these are things to help us grow, learn, and "see" through Father's eyes.
As I consider these things and many other things, I must ask, "Where is your faith?" Who is in charge of all things? Does anything happen that is a surprise to Father? When He is aware of every bird, every lily, every little things, every disease, every death, we need to accept whatever, learn and grow.
We need to be patient when we wait for the timing of events that will dictate to Bonnie and I when and where we will be privileged to serve. It is His. All things are His. He knows the whys, the whens, and the wheres. Just because we don't, we need to exercise patience and faith in His management of this life.
At work, one of our teachers just buried a daughter who was about thirty years younger. (No one should ever have to bury their child, but it does happen.) Then the ex-husband of the one who died, also died two days later.
I am reminded of 2 Nephi 2:24 where it says all things have been done in God's wisdom. Adding to the deaths of these people and trying to make sense out of the disease MS, I am reminded that often there are just not answers, reasons, or comfort when we, in mortality, try to come to grips with events, disease, and so many other things. Mortality is a school, a time to learn, grow, draw closer to Father and strengthen testimony. Even all these events we do not understand, these are things to help us grow, learn, and "see" through Father's eyes.
As I consider these things and many other things, I must ask, "Where is your faith?" Who is in charge of all things? Does anything happen that is a surprise to Father? When He is aware of every bird, every lily, every little things, every disease, every death, we need to accept whatever, learn and grow.
We need to be patient when we wait for the timing of events that will dictate to Bonnie and I when and where we will be privileged to serve. It is His. All things are His. He knows the whys, the whens, and the wheres. Just because we don't, we need to exercise patience and faith in His management of this life.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Day 19 --- 50 DAYS
Bonnie was talking with one of our daughters-in-law yesterday. She said, "I really don't want to ask but...." It was sort of funny. Everyone hates to ask us if there has been any progress on our mission call. Especially when we have to answer in the negative. They feel sad for us, and know that we hate to admit to them and to ourselves that nothing has been done. At least nothing that we can see.
So, on this Monday, once again I admit that nothing has been done, at least nothing that we can see. We still await our interview with our Stake President. We assume that things are being done, but who knows.
As I was home teaching yesterday, one of the sisters I home teach said it may be ironical if we receive our call about one year after we started this journey, or around June 9th, or in about nineteen days. I agree. Maybe when I started this blog I didn't realize it, but the count down was to our receiving our call, not to going on a mission. That would be fine with me.
On June 9th, we will be camping in Spanish Fork, enjoying our reunion with my kids and grand kids. Who knows what will happen around that day, but whether we do or not, it will be a joyous day to celebrate 40 years with my sweet wife, companion of my upcoming mission.
Well, tomorrow marks seven weeks since we submitted our paperwork. Seven weeks could turn into seventeen, or even one hundred and seventeen. Seven weeks is only around 50 days. That is all. Father Knows Best. And we are patient, or learning patience through these waiting days.
So, on this Monday, once again I admit that nothing has been done, at least nothing that we can see. We still await our interview with our Stake President. We assume that things are being done, but who knows.
As I was home teaching yesterday, one of the sisters I home teach said it may be ironical if we receive our call about one year after we started this journey, or around June 9th, or in about nineteen days. I agree. Maybe when I started this blog I didn't realize it, but the count down was to our receiving our call, not to going on a mission. That would be fine with me.
On June 9th, we will be camping in Spanish Fork, enjoying our reunion with my kids and grand kids. Who knows what will happen around that day, but whether we do or not, it will be a joyous day to celebrate 40 years with my sweet wife, companion of my upcoming mission.
Well, tomorrow marks seven weeks since we submitted our paperwork. Seven weeks could turn into seventeen, or even one hundred and seventeen. Seven weeks is only around 50 days. That is all. Father Knows Best. And we are patient, or learning patience through these waiting days.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
DAY 20 --- Another Miracle About to Happen?
At times small and simple things happen that seem to be a mistake, but with further review, they are according to He who knows all. Yesterday I guess I posted two posts of this blog. I meant for one to be posted today. But as I review the overall blog, I see that it was already posted. So, I am writing this one, morning of Sunday before going to church. It was a small and simple thing, but I have something to add, something to say today.
Long ago, I created a goal to earn $50,000 before we went on our mission. Well, I am not discounting the possibility of that happening, but the reason I was going to earn $50,000 was to support our mission. I mentioned yesterday that I have a manuscript about the first coming of Christ to the Lamanites/Nephites. As I have pondered and checked that out, thoughts have flooded into my mind. I checked out yesterday a bit about doing an E-book. Today, thoughts keep flooding into my mind about that possibility.
It won't present me with a check for $50,000, but it may help support my mission. So I am pursuing this possibility. With the possibilities of facebook, having many people I know and love advertise this book on facebook, telling their friends and such about it, it may be a way to get the word out. Now of course it may be illegal to do that, but there may be a way I am not thinking about to get others to know of this book.
Since I have written books about ten years ago, I have many contacts in the writing-book industry and may be able to get help to get this manuscript ready to publish. I hear it is easy, and for me to do it adequately, it would have to be easy. So as I go to church today, I am going to be thinking about, pondering about, and asking Father if this is something I should pursue.
It would take much time to perfect that manuscript of many years ago, but the book is sound, many have read it and mentioned that they loved it. If told those who would help me get it ready, they would helping Bonnie and I serve our mission.... Also, as we finally get out in the mission field, I feel that perhaps I need to continue this blog reporting on the mission. The first part of this blog will be this last year, from June 9 to mission call. (We may be getting our mission around June 9th) The second chapter of this blog could be reporting on the mission for those who have an interest in reading about it, especially those who are helping, or who have helped to get us out.
Father works in mysterious ways, by small and simple things, through small and insignificant things such as me. I will see things "feel" through my meetings today.
Long ago, I created a goal to earn $50,000 before we went on our mission. Well, I am not discounting the possibility of that happening, but the reason I was going to earn $50,000 was to support our mission. I mentioned yesterday that I have a manuscript about the first coming of Christ to the Lamanites/Nephites. As I have pondered and checked that out, thoughts have flooded into my mind. I checked out yesterday a bit about doing an E-book. Today, thoughts keep flooding into my mind about that possibility.
It won't present me with a check for $50,000, but it may help support my mission. So I am pursuing this possibility. With the possibilities of facebook, having many people I know and love advertise this book on facebook, telling their friends and such about it, it may be a way to get the word out. Now of course it may be illegal to do that, but there may be a way I am not thinking about to get others to know of this book.
Since I have written books about ten years ago, I have many contacts in the writing-book industry and may be able to get help to get this manuscript ready to publish. I hear it is easy, and for me to do it adequately, it would have to be easy. So as I go to church today, I am going to be thinking about, pondering about, and asking Father if this is something I should pursue.
It would take much time to perfect that manuscript of many years ago, but the book is sound, many have read it and mentioned that they loved it. If told those who would help me get it ready, they would helping Bonnie and I serve our mission.... Also, as we finally get out in the mission field, I feel that perhaps I need to continue this blog reporting on the mission. The first part of this blog will be this last year, from June 9 to mission call. (We may be getting our mission around June 9th) The second chapter of this blog could be reporting on the mission for those who have an interest in reading about it, especially those who are helping, or who have helped to get us out.
Father works in mysterious ways, by small and simple things, through small and insignificant things such as me. I will see things "feel" through my meetings today.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
DAY 21 -- Three Weks
I heard at our Fathers and Sons outing Friday night that the Stake President had all our papers, however he was out of town. I asked the bishop if he was on a seventy day cruise and we should not expect to hear from him until possibly July or August. He laughed. I didn't.
Then yesterday morning, we talked to Bonnie's brother who is in the occupation of getting all ready to go. He is planning on going to the West Indies in July. Because the mission covers three countries, he has to get three different visas, or passports or three different somethings. His preparation is very much detailed. I would assume ours will be different than his, but we shall see in seventy days, right?
Yesterday, Bonnie and her brother drove to Fairview where the family owns a home. Bonnie's step dad is living down there. We have some things from Bonnie's mother that we wanted stored down there rather than in our storage unit. Thus Bonnie and Dave went down there yesterday.
Yesterday also, I got a glimpse of a miracle that COULD happen to get me that $50,000 I was thinking about to finance our mission. I wrote a book a long time ago about the week before Christ came, the Nephites who were threatened with death if Samuel's promised day-night-day with no darkness did not come. I have lazily tried to get it printed through the years, but now I have been told that perhaps I need to look into E-publish it and get it to the public.
I am sure when it is e-published that millions will come and purchase it to give us the money we need, right? Anyway, that is something that I think I will look into in the coming days while waiting for our call. By small and simple things are great things brought to pass. Who knows, but it cannot hurt to pursue it, can it? It could turn out to be a great, large thing brought to pass. It may not also?
Then yesterday morning, we talked to Bonnie's brother who is in the occupation of getting all ready to go. He is planning on going to the West Indies in July. Because the mission covers three countries, he has to get three different visas, or passports or three different somethings. His preparation is very much detailed. I would assume ours will be different than his, but we shall see in seventy days, right?
Yesterday, Bonnie and her brother drove to Fairview where the family owns a home. Bonnie's step dad is living down there. We have some things from Bonnie's mother that we wanted stored down there rather than in our storage unit. Thus Bonnie and Dave went down there yesterday.
Yesterday also, I got a glimpse of a miracle that COULD happen to get me that $50,000 I was thinking about to finance our mission. I wrote a book a long time ago about the week before Christ came, the Nephites who were threatened with death if Samuel's promised day-night-day with no darkness did not come. I have lazily tried to get it printed through the years, but now I have been told that perhaps I need to look into E-publish it and get it to the public.
I am sure when it is e-published that millions will come and purchase it to give us the money we need, right? Anyway, that is something that I think I will look into in the coming days while waiting for our call. By small and simple things are great things brought to pass. Who knows, but it cannot hurt to pursue it, can it? It could turn out to be a great, large thing brought to pass. It may not also?
DAY 22 --- Enlarging our Circle of Family
Last night I went on a rainy fathers and sons outing. I enjoyed being with two sons, and four grandsons. I thoroughly enjoyed them. They are blood of my blood. I feel honored to be their father/grandfather. We came to earth separated by about 30 years, and I have watched them slowly grow into men, supporting their families and teaching my grandchildren the gospel of Jesus Christ.
When we finally get to go serve a mission, I am sure our circle of family members will grow. I am sure we will meet and grow to love a myriad of fellow members and even non-members. They will be family also. Not mortal blood of my blood, but family none-the-less. We come from the same Father and Mother. We are brothers and sisters. We all come from the same family and are sent here to endure, to prove our worth, and to serve our fellow man.
I can just envision us leaving our mission and weeping as we leave fellow beloved members, young missionaries, and mission Presidencies. I remember like it was yesterday the sadness and tears I felt as I left my field of labor in Mexico. I had only been in that city for two months, but created such a bond with the members and those we were teaching. I am sure we will feel the same feelings of love and kinship with them.
I look forward to that experience. I can't wait. Yes, I can and will wait for that day. I know it is coming and we shall be missionaries within the next weeks or months. I am excited to meet those I knew before coming to this earth and I shall become reacquainted with them. We shall be strangers, but that feeling of "family" will be there and we will wonder where we ever meet them before meeting them now.
When we finally get to go serve a mission, I am sure our circle of family members will grow. I am sure we will meet and grow to love a myriad of fellow members and even non-members. They will be family also. Not mortal blood of my blood, but family none-the-less. We come from the same Father and Mother. We are brothers and sisters. We all come from the same family and are sent here to endure, to prove our worth, and to serve our fellow man.
I can just envision us leaving our mission and weeping as we leave fellow beloved members, young missionaries, and mission Presidencies. I remember like it was yesterday the sadness and tears I felt as I left my field of labor in Mexico. I had only been in that city for two months, but created such a bond with the members and those we were teaching. I am sure we will feel the same feelings of love and kinship with them.
I look forward to that experience. I can't wait. Yes, I can and will wait for that day. I know it is coming and we shall be missionaries within the next weeks or months. I am excited to meet those I knew before coming to this earth and I shall become reacquainted with them. We shall be strangers, but that feeling of "family" will be there and we will wonder where we ever meet them before meeting them now.
Friday, May 18, 2012
DAY 23 --- Stake President Time
Well, we are starting all over again. If the Stake President has his week filled up this week with the affairs of 15 wards, perhaps on Sunday he may have time to see us. Or if he is all filled up for three weeks, then perhaps in June some time we will get in to see him. Then if he sends it immediately to the Headquarters, then perhaps....
It is just another game we play. We have been doing this for about one year. With every little morsel of information, we start again trying to imagine what will happen when so we can sort of start planning on when we can go.
Since there is nothing we can do about it, and since we know not when anything will happen, as part of a self preservation tactic, I am trying to put it out of my mind again, just waiting until something happens that will mean something to our plans, our future, and our departure. Why get all scheduled up with things we have to do IF something happens? It is just a waste of time.
The anticipation is there, ready to release the flood of excitement, but it is hard to put it all on hold. It is certainly hard to explain how we are feeling.
I just finished reading 3 Nephi 1. I can imagine the same type, sort of, of anticipation. Those saints were threatened with death if the promised signs that Samuel talked about did not happen by a certain date. I am sure as the sun went down and it got dark, they were concerned, worried, and wondering if and when it would happen. Did they keep good records? Are they sure Samuel said five years? What if it is after the deadline imposed by the bad guys and they would all be dead?
They were waiting for a promised sign to happen to save their life. No, I guess we are not that pressured, facing death. But there are similarities in the patience, the waiting game we are in. Hurry up and wait.
Even after we talk with our Stake President, we will still have time to wait until we get our call. I guess it is just an exercise in learning patience. I wonder.... am I learning?
It is just another game we play. We have been doing this for about one year. With every little morsel of information, we start again trying to imagine what will happen when so we can sort of start planning on when we can go.
Since there is nothing we can do about it, and since we know not when anything will happen, as part of a self preservation tactic, I am trying to put it out of my mind again, just waiting until something happens that will mean something to our plans, our future, and our departure. Why get all scheduled up with things we have to do IF something happens? It is just a waste of time.
The anticipation is there, ready to release the flood of excitement, but it is hard to put it all on hold. It is certainly hard to explain how we are feeling.
I just finished reading 3 Nephi 1. I can imagine the same type, sort of, of anticipation. Those saints were threatened with death if the promised signs that Samuel talked about did not happen by a certain date. I am sure as the sun went down and it got dark, they were concerned, worried, and wondering if and when it would happen. Did they keep good records? Are they sure Samuel said five years? What if it is after the deadline imposed by the bad guys and they would all be dead?
They were waiting for a promised sign to happen to save their life. No, I guess we are not that pressured, facing death. But there are similarities in the patience, the waiting game we are in. Hurry up and wait.
Even after we talk with our Stake President, we will still have time to wait until we get our call. I guess it is just an exercise in learning patience. I wonder.... am I learning?
Thursday, May 17, 2012
DAY 24 -- If Ye Have Desires....
Yes, as it says in Doctrine and Covenants, we do have desires. We want to thrust in our sickle in the mission field. We probably won't be tracting, nor teaching as much as the young elders, but who knows. We will do as the Spirit so directs. On the bottom of the application after it asks what our preference is, it asks if we will do whatever we are called upon to do, in spite of our expressed preferences. Of course we said YES.
I try to imagine the many different kinds of missions that could be contained in our call. In other words, we are offering ourselves to do whatever we are called to do. And since we will be serving 24/7 in His work, all we have to do is listen to those sweet soft whisperings and go and do.
Yes, after Tuesday night's call from the bishop, I am getting excited. But I am cautious because it still may take many moons, many miles, and many weeks before we hear anything from anyone. Even after we have talked to the stake president, it may take another seven weeks? I feel I am floating, not knowing the timing, not knowing where, nor the kind of work we will be doing. It is hard to make firm commitments, or goals, or dreams based on what?
I read in our most recent Ensign in one conference talk when Elder Holland stated that when he witnessed a dear sister was afflicted with cancer for many years, he said that he assumed that Father wanted to polish her a bit more. When he talked about others who were struggling, he mentioned that Father was just perfecting them to be worthy of a higher kingdom.
I guess, no matter how long, or where we go, these things may be perfecting or polishing me. So why should I complain, or worry. Just patience, waiting until we are privileged enough to be able to help further the work somewhere in His kingdom. We will go and we will do, as directed.
I try to imagine the many different kinds of missions that could be contained in our call. In other words, we are offering ourselves to do whatever we are called to do. And since we will be serving 24/7 in His work, all we have to do is listen to those sweet soft whisperings and go and do.
Yes, after Tuesday night's call from the bishop, I am getting excited. But I am cautious because it still may take many moons, many miles, and many weeks before we hear anything from anyone. Even after we have talked to the stake president, it may take another seven weeks? I feel I am floating, not knowing the timing, not knowing where, nor the kind of work we will be doing. It is hard to make firm commitments, or goals, or dreams based on what?
I read in our most recent Ensign in one conference talk when Elder Holland stated that when he witnessed a dear sister was afflicted with cancer for many years, he said that he assumed that Father wanted to polish her a bit more. When he talked about others who were struggling, he mentioned that Father was just perfecting them to be worthy of a higher kingdom.
I guess, no matter how long, or where we go, these things may be perfecting or polishing me. So why should I complain, or worry. Just patience, waiting until we are privileged enough to be able to help further the work somewhere in His kingdom. We will go and we will do, as directed.
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
DAY 25 -- Another Sign it is getting Closer
Last night, as I was leaving work, one of my co workers asked if I had heard anything. I replied that I had not. He let forth with a string of expletives. I guess that is how some react to speed bumps in their life. Not me.
Last night tickets were given to schools to go to a free ball game pitting the U of U against the UVU baseball team. Since Bonnie loves baseball, we went. (Let me say here that it was not as painful as that "opera" we went to about a week ago.) Somewhere in about the seventh inning, our bishop called. (In case you were wondering the U won, destroying the 33 game winning streak that UVU had going. Felt sorry for them, but overjoyed for my Utes.)
He reported he was sitting in front of his computer screen and just verified with the Headquarters that ALL WAS DONE on our papers and they are now in the hands of our stake president. (I must apologize to him for putting all the blame for the wait we have been in.) I guess that the Headquarters coordinates with the bishop all the "affairs" of an OLD couple serving a mission. Well last night it was all done and he said that "HE" pushed the button and as of last night in the seventh inning, our papers were in the hands of our stake president. Our good bishop pushed the button exactly six weeks after we pushed the button to give him the papers. It takes six weeks, at least in our case, to get them into the hands of the stake president.
So now we wait for our stake president to interview us. At least as I understand from our bishop, after he checks us out, our battery strength, the level of the oil, the inner rumblings of things in our mind, what happens between our ears, then he will push his button in behalf of our mission papers.
Then I guess it will finally go to the church to decide where we will be assigned, as my bishop calls says. He says that an apostle will review our papers, check on what our bishop and the headquarters have decided and make the final decision. And I am certainly not going to try to decide how soon all of that will happen. It could be another six weeks, or six days, or six months. I don't know.
Anyway, it is nice to know that progress is being made on "our assignment" and where we will be going. This brings it a bit closer to reality in my mind at least. We are still in the "waiting" mode and striving to be patient until the Lord calls.
Last night tickets were given to schools to go to a free ball game pitting the U of U against the UVU baseball team. Since Bonnie loves baseball, we went. (Let me say here that it was not as painful as that "opera" we went to about a week ago.) Somewhere in about the seventh inning, our bishop called. (In case you were wondering the U won, destroying the 33 game winning streak that UVU had going. Felt sorry for them, but overjoyed for my Utes.)
He reported he was sitting in front of his computer screen and just verified with the Headquarters that ALL WAS DONE on our papers and they are now in the hands of our stake president. (I must apologize to him for putting all the blame for the wait we have been in.) I guess that the Headquarters coordinates with the bishop all the "affairs" of an OLD couple serving a mission. Well last night it was all done and he said that "HE" pushed the button and as of last night in the seventh inning, our papers were in the hands of our stake president. Our good bishop pushed the button exactly six weeks after we pushed the button to give him the papers. It takes six weeks, at least in our case, to get them into the hands of the stake president.
So now we wait for our stake president to interview us. At least as I understand from our bishop, after he checks us out, our battery strength, the level of the oil, the inner rumblings of things in our mind, what happens between our ears, then he will push his button in behalf of our mission papers.
Then I guess it will finally go to the church to decide where we will be assigned, as my bishop calls says. He says that an apostle will review our papers, check on what our bishop and the headquarters have decided and make the final decision. And I am certainly not going to try to decide how soon all of that will happen. It could be another six weeks, or six days, or six months. I don't know.
Anyway, it is nice to know that progress is being made on "our assignment" and where we will be going. This brings it a bit closer to reality in my mind at least. We are still in the "waiting" mode and striving to be patient until the Lord calls.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
DAY 26 -- Losing My Gut
With only 26 days until we reach our goal, I am now beginning to think that we will be lucky to have our call by June 9. When I started it, I thought we may even be out in the mission field by June 9. Now we MAY have our call by then? It is a bit less than four weeks.
Bonnie is assuming that if we get our call by then, we may not go for two to three months beyond that. I keep telling her that we may get a call where they need us immediately. I mean we wait and wait and then get a call and they want/need us NOW? It will certainly be interesting, won't it?
I am finally serious in the prospect of losing my gut. I have three boys working with me and the four of us have a program set up. We report daily about our successes or failures. All four of us need a bit of encouragement and motivation. So, we shall see where this goes.
It dawned on me yesterday that the battle with weight is nothing more or less than the battle between flesh and Spirit. My flesh sure loves the chocolate, one bite more of dinner, eat after dinner, munch on things, and eat late at night. My flesh wants good tasting food. But my spirit knows that it is not good for my health, my weight and gut.
So this battle goes on. I just enjoy eating, but I also enjoy being trim and fit. Can I have them both? When I was young, about one hundred years ago, I could eat anything and still not gain weight. Now I just look at a chocolate dish, a morsel that is totally fattening, and I gain weight.
So I came up with a few more goals and commitments to start again. And one of the main goals is to remember that this is really a battle between flesh and spirit. That is a battle that goes on in many different areas of our life, not just weight.
I find myself eating, wanting more and often eating until I can't eat any more. And while I am doing that, I am not even thinking about this commitment I made about reducing my gut. It is interesting that if I evaluate how much (not pounds, but the seriousness of my goal) I want to lose, and if I put that in my mind, close to the surface, then I will be able to be more successful in this goal. If I think of this goal as I see food in front of me, rather than "anticipating" how that will taste, I will remember how much I want to lose weight.
Anyway, that is what I am trying now. We shall see if I do anything, how long this goes and if I can really have my spirit overcome the desires of the flesh, chocolate, sugar, candy, etc.
Bonnie is assuming that if we get our call by then, we may not go for two to three months beyond that. I keep telling her that we may get a call where they need us immediately. I mean we wait and wait and then get a call and they want/need us NOW? It will certainly be interesting, won't it?
I am finally serious in the prospect of losing my gut. I have three boys working with me and the four of us have a program set up. We report daily about our successes or failures. All four of us need a bit of encouragement and motivation. So, we shall see where this goes.
It dawned on me yesterday that the battle with weight is nothing more or less than the battle between flesh and Spirit. My flesh sure loves the chocolate, one bite more of dinner, eat after dinner, munch on things, and eat late at night. My flesh wants good tasting food. But my spirit knows that it is not good for my health, my weight and gut.
So this battle goes on. I just enjoy eating, but I also enjoy being trim and fit. Can I have them both? When I was young, about one hundred years ago, I could eat anything and still not gain weight. Now I just look at a chocolate dish, a morsel that is totally fattening, and I gain weight.
So I came up with a few more goals and commitments to start again. And one of the main goals is to remember that this is really a battle between flesh and spirit. That is a battle that goes on in many different areas of our life, not just weight.
I find myself eating, wanting more and often eating until I can't eat any more. And while I am doing that, I am not even thinking about this commitment I made about reducing my gut. It is interesting that if I evaluate how much (not pounds, but the seriousness of my goal) I want to lose, and if I put that in my mind, close to the surface, then I will be able to be more successful in this goal. If I think of this goal as I see food in front of me, rather than "anticipating" how that will taste, I will remember how much I want to lose weight.
Anyway, that is what I am trying now. We shall see if I do anything, how long this goes and if I can really have my spirit overcome the desires of the flesh, chocolate, sugar, candy, etc.
Monday, May 14, 2012
DAY 27 --- Lasagna
Well, as we entered church today, Bonnie talked to the bishop while I was setting up chairs for our large ward. She said he said..... He said that he had called church headquarters and asked them what is up? What is the delay?
They replied the rote statement, "Things take time in the church." He pursued it a bit and once again they said that all was done and our stake president should be getting our papers, "Soon". Then he will call us in to check on our worthiness. Then he would "push the bottom" and they would get them, then who knows how long it will take them to assign us a mission, a place.
Remember, soon can mean about 80 years in the Book of Mormon. At least they know about us, and know we want to serve a mission. At least we are not lost and everyone wondering who we are. At least we ARE in the system and one day may receive that envelope in the mail telling us we are called to a mission. At least....
So, we continue to wait and see.
Yes, it was a wonderful mother's day, and Bonnie enjoyed it. It was pleasing to know that all our sons honored our daughters in fine fashion. They are all so grateful for the method our daughters are nurturing our grand children just as we are.
My youngest daughter made Bonnie's favorite meal, Lasagna. I watched her eat it, sacrificed my desires for it and let her eat my portion. No I just do not appreciate the ins and outs, the taste, the cheese, the noodles, the country of lasagna. I hope we are not sent to that country, my wife would be in Heaven and I would be put into another position to learn lessons such as patience. Yes, I know, I will go where called, but I do not have to be totally happy with the food we will eat there.
My daughter in law says I am a picky eater, and I surely am. But perhaps this mission will teach me to eat more of what is put in front of me, rather than be so picky. More lessons and more miracles coming our way.
We start another week of floating, waiting and anticipating. I am getting good at that, -- NOT!
They replied the rote statement, "Things take time in the church." He pursued it a bit and once again they said that all was done and our stake president should be getting our papers, "Soon". Then he will call us in to check on our worthiness. Then he would "push the bottom" and they would get them, then who knows how long it will take them to assign us a mission, a place.
Remember, soon can mean about 80 years in the Book of Mormon. At least they know about us, and know we want to serve a mission. At least we are not lost and everyone wondering who we are. At least we ARE in the system and one day may receive that envelope in the mail telling us we are called to a mission. At least....
So, we continue to wait and see.
Yes, it was a wonderful mother's day, and Bonnie enjoyed it. It was pleasing to know that all our sons honored our daughters in fine fashion. They are all so grateful for the method our daughters are nurturing our grand children just as we are.
My youngest daughter made Bonnie's favorite meal, Lasagna. I watched her eat it, sacrificed my desires for it and let her eat my portion. No I just do not appreciate the ins and outs, the taste, the cheese, the noodles, the country of lasagna. I hope we are not sent to that country, my wife would be in Heaven and I would be put into another position to learn lessons such as patience. Yes, I know, I will go where called, but I do not have to be totally happy with the food we will eat there.
My daughter in law says I am a picky eater, and I surely am. But perhaps this mission will teach me to eat more of what is put in front of me, rather than be so picky. More lessons and more miracles coming our way.
We start another week of floating, waiting and anticipating. I am getting good at that, -- NOT!
Sunday, May 13, 2012
DAY 28 -- Mother's Day
Saturday Bonnie said all she wanted for Mother's Day was to have her daughters and daughters in law come and spend a few hours together talking. They call came. She prepared an "Olive Garden" like meal and all loved it. I appreciate them all arranging their time to come and eat, and talk, and such. Bonnie was so happy to have them all here. What a glorious time. I spent time at the park with many grand kids tending them, overseeing them, and making sure they did not hurt themselves.
Bonnie is such a wonderful mother. Due to her nurturing, her love, and compassion, her teachings, our kids are well established in this mortality. Again, it is largely because of her mothering. I am so grateful for her and what she has done with our children. Yes, they did come with many of their talents, their attitudes from Pre Earth life, but it had to be given a place and fertile soil to grow, develop and become what they have become. Again, it is largely because of the mother, or Bonnie. I am so grateful for her.
I can't help but pause and consider my own mother. She was an orphan, and struggled much of her life being accepted and loved. Throughout her life she served, loved, and honored Father in Heaven and His Church. She taught me many things to help me become as I am now. Yes I brought talents and things from Pre Earth, but they developed and I grew and learned much because of my mother. I was the one who found mother after she died. She was so peaceful. I hope she is still just as peaceful with Father in Heaven.
Now I can't forget my Mother in Heaven. I know She is there and I know She loves me. I also know that often She is close to me and my life. She aches with me. She cries with me. She feels joy with me and happiness with me. She watches me struggle and would love to help me overcome obstacles, learn lessons faster, and grow into what I need to become. I miss Her. She is my perfect Mother and is aware of my inner feelings and thoughts.
I certainly love my Mother in Heaven, my earthly mother, and my good wife who has been such a good mother not only to our children, but also to me. I feel sad to know that some do not have a mother as I have had. Some go through this life without the tender loving arms around them as I have had most of my life. They have an Eternal Mother, but they often do not recognize, nor feel of Her love. But nonetheless it is there.
Happy Mothers Day. Thanks Father in Heaven for MOTHERS. They are beyond description, so perfect in almost every way, just as Mary Poppins. Note: Nope, no interview, we wait.
Bonnie is such a wonderful mother. Due to her nurturing, her love, and compassion, her teachings, our kids are well established in this mortality. Again, it is largely because of her mothering. I am so grateful for her and what she has done with our children. Yes, they did come with many of their talents, their attitudes from Pre Earth life, but it had to be given a place and fertile soil to grow, develop and become what they have become. Again, it is largely because of the mother, or Bonnie. I am so grateful for her.
I can't help but pause and consider my own mother. She was an orphan, and struggled much of her life being accepted and loved. Throughout her life she served, loved, and honored Father in Heaven and His Church. She taught me many things to help me become as I am now. Yes I brought talents and things from Pre Earth, but they developed and I grew and learned much because of my mother. I was the one who found mother after she died. She was so peaceful. I hope she is still just as peaceful with Father in Heaven.
Now I can't forget my Mother in Heaven. I know She is there and I know She loves me. I also know that often She is close to me and my life. She aches with me. She cries with me. She feels joy with me and happiness with me. She watches me struggle and would love to help me overcome obstacles, learn lessons faster, and grow into what I need to become. I miss Her. She is my perfect Mother and is aware of my inner feelings and thoughts.
I certainly love my Mother in Heaven, my earthly mother, and my good wife who has been such a good mother not only to our children, but also to me. I feel sad to know that some do not have a mother as I have had. Some go through this life without the tender loving arms around them as I have had most of my life. They have an Eternal Mother, but they often do not recognize, nor feel of Her love. But nonetheless it is there.
Happy Mothers Day. Thanks Father in Heaven for MOTHERS. They are beyond description, so perfect in almost every way, just as Mary Poppins. Note: Nope, no interview, we wait.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
DAY 29 -- Deporting, Immigration, Mothering
Only 29 days until the fulfillment of a dream and journey we started one year ago. I can't believe it. Of course in twenty nine days we may still be waiting for our call, for an appointment, for the Second Coming, and for the fish to bite. Twenty nine days is all.
I told my son last night that the vision, the excitement, the anticipation for our mission is gone. I seldom think about our mission, since it is, for some reason, delayed in the coming. Bonnie's brother waited seven weeks. We are at the six week mark. It is so hard to be excited about it when we have no idea when or where. Patience is a Godly virtue and I guess I am learning that.
Last night, while tending grand kids, Bonnie and I watched a movie at my son's house. It was the "Visitor." I am sure that almost one hundred people of ninety nine would say that they have never heard of it. It was a very "low cost" movie, but one that treated a very interesting subject. It portrayed the challenge of immigration, deportation, and the plight of those who have entered the US, either legally or not.
Just yesterday at work, I experienced another event that involved deporting a young Hispanic. I could see the point on both side of the disagreement. I cannot have an opinion about this idea right now, for I don't know enough about it. But I sure see the challenge in other's lives who come to the US and want to stay here.
The only reason I bring it up is because that issue will be present and possibly a challenge where we go to serve. In our singing group we are singing this year "So Many Voices." It is a song about those who want to come to the US and enjoy freedom, this country, and join in our way of life. That is all over the world. I work for an ESL firm that invites students from all over the world to come and learn English. I have watched those who were students come and get a taste of the American Culture and weep as they finish their education and have to go home. Yesterday I watched as a young man is faced with deportation because he is out of compliance to the laws that permitted him to enter. It's like getting a taste of chocolate cake, then it being taken away rapidly.
Two different experiences yesterday brought that home to my heart. If that is a fore shadowing of what is to come, then we will be going foreign.
Bonnie is doing a special thing for our girls today to honor our daughters and -in law daughters for Mother's Day. I will report on that tomorrow in this blog. I am so proud of her mothering and grand mothering talents.
I told my son last night that the vision, the excitement, the anticipation for our mission is gone. I seldom think about our mission, since it is, for some reason, delayed in the coming. Bonnie's brother waited seven weeks. We are at the six week mark. It is so hard to be excited about it when we have no idea when or where. Patience is a Godly virtue and I guess I am learning that.
Last night, while tending grand kids, Bonnie and I watched a movie at my son's house. It was the "Visitor." I am sure that almost one hundred people of ninety nine would say that they have never heard of it. It was a very "low cost" movie, but one that treated a very interesting subject. It portrayed the challenge of immigration, deportation, and the plight of those who have entered the US, either legally or not.
Just yesterday at work, I experienced another event that involved deporting a young Hispanic. I could see the point on both side of the disagreement. I cannot have an opinion about this idea right now, for I don't know enough about it. But I sure see the challenge in other's lives who come to the US and want to stay here.
The only reason I bring it up is because that issue will be present and possibly a challenge where we go to serve. In our singing group we are singing this year "So Many Voices." It is a song about those who want to come to the US and enjoy freedom, this country, and join in our way of life. That is all over the world. I work for an ESL firm that invites students from all over the world to come and learn English. I have watched those who were students come and get a taste of the American Culture and weep as they finish their education and have to go home. Yesterday I watched as a young man is faced with deportation because he is out of compliance to the laws that permitted him to enter. It's like getting a taste of chocolate cake, then it being taken away rapidly.
Two different experiences yesterday brought that home to my heart. If that is a fore shadowing of what is to come, then we will be going foreign.
Bonnie is doing a special thing for our girls today to honor our daughters and -in law daughters for Mother's Day. I will report on that tomorrow in this blog. I am so proud of her mothering and grand mothering talents.
Friday, May 11, 2012
DAY 30 -- Begin To Remember
After I dreamed up that brilliant quote yesterday, I knew that millions would come flocking to my door for my autograph. They didn't. It was like most of my brilliant "aha" moments, or my efforts to benefit mankind.
Then last night, while I was away from my phone, I received a phone call. I didn't hear it but when I returned to my phone, I wondered who had called. It was an 801 area code. Secretly, I was assuming that it was the executive secretary asking Bonnie and I in to meet with the Stake President. It had finally come. I was inwardly excited, but could not tell Bonnie about it for I would appear as a fool when it wasn 't the stake.
Well about one hour later, we were in the car and that call came in. I was driving, so excited, as I viewed that it was the same number. Many thoughts went through my mind. I quietly answered the phone, waiting, finally knowing that the time had come. Then Orrin Hatch, or a recording of him asked me to vote for him.
I personally know Senator Hatch. I met him long ago before he went to congress. He was talking with my father at Lagoon. He was one of dad's bishops in our stake. I went up to him and dad said that he was going to run for and become a senator. He said that Orrin felt impressed that he could do much good for this nation and dad gave him his blessing to run. (I guess he is still running....) So his phone call, though just a recording, reminded me of that day many years ago at Lagoon.
Anyway, I was not devastated, but disappointed for the wait goes on. I told Bonnie yesterday (before the call) that I do not even think about our mission any more. I just go to work, do my work, and go home. I do what I need to do and I guess on purpose I prevent any excitement or any anticipation of entering my mind. I have wanted to return to the mission field with my wonderful wife for over 41 years. It "could" be within our grasp. But there are reasons why it is being delayed, and so out of self preservation, I cannot let it dwell in my mind very much.
I just read Helaman chapter 11. It is the chapter where Nephi called a famine to teach the people, threaten them with destruction for they would not listen to his words. Thousands died and the lack of rain threatened to destroy them all. Then I smile as I read, "...they began to remember..." "Remember" is in the Book of Mormon 144 times. It must be important. But beginning to remember causes me to smile. Thousands are falling dead and they BEGIN to remember the words of Nephi.
Well, one day when we do get a call from the executive secretary of the Stake President, I guess we will begin to remember about our upcoming mission call. The dust will be dusted off, the cobwebs will be destroyed, and our mission will once again be foremost in our mind. Tears of joy will be shed, and we shall start knowing where to go, and how to further prepare for a certain part of the Lord's vineyard. Our mission will take it's place being more important than anything else.
Then last night, while I was away from my phone, I received a phone call. I didn't hear it but when I returned to my phone, I wondered who had called. It was an 801 area code. Secretly, I was assuming that it was the executive secretary asking Bonnie and I in to meet with the Stake President. It had finally come. I was inwardly excited, but could not tell Bonnie about it for I would appear as a fool when it wasn 't the stake.
Well about one hour later, we were in the car and that call came in. I was driving, so excited, as I viewed that it was the same number. Many thoughts went through my mind. I quietly answered the phone, waiting, finally knowing that the time had come. Then Orrin Hatch, or a recording of him asked me to vote for him.
I personally know Senator Hatch. I met him long ago before he went to congress. He was talking with my father at Lagoon. He was one of dad's bishops in our stake. I went up to him and dad said that he was going to run for and become a senator. He said that Orrin felt impressed that he could do much good for this nation and dad gave him his blessing to run. (I guess he is still running....) So his phone call, though just a recording, reminded me of that day many years ago at Lagoon.
Anyway, I was not devastated, but disappointed for the wait goes on. I told Bonnie yesterday (before the call) that I do not even think about our mission any more. I just go to work, do my work, and go home. I do what I need to do and I guess on purpose I prevent any excitement or any anticipation of entering my mind. I have wanted to return to the mission field with my wonderful wife for over 41 years. It "could" be within our grasp. But there are reasons why it is being delayed, and so out of self preservation, I cannot let it dwell in my mind very much.
I just read Helaman chapter 11. It is the chapter where Nephi called a famine to teach the people, threaten them with destruction for they would not listen to his words. Thousands died and the lack of rain threatened to destroy them all. Then I smile as I read, "...they began to remember..." "Remember" is in the Book of Mormon 144 times. It must be important. But beginning to remember causes me to smile. Thousands are falling dead and they BEGIN to remember the words of Nephi.
Well, one day when we do get a call from the executive secretary of the Stake President, I guess we will begin to remember about our upcoming mission call. The dust will be dusted off, the cobwebs will be destroyed, and our mission will once again be foremost in our mind. Tears of joy will be shed, and we shall start knowing where to go, and how to further prepare for a certain part of the Lord's vineyard. Our mission will take it's place being more important than anything else.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
DAY 31 --- Another Miracle
This one came about in a strange way, of course don't most miracles come about in strange ways? I will have to lay the ground work for this one, if you please.
Bonnie loves music. She has always loved music. In Perry, I "campaigned" to get her called as the choir director. It finally happened and she was wonderful. She had about forty singers coming to choir practice each week. We sang difficult songs and challenged the choir members. They loved it.
Then when we arrived in Lehi, I once again campaigned and the bishop happened to be looking for a choir director. She received that call again. She has done well, having a great choir, coming because they love the music she chooses as she expects much out of them. They deliver.
Well, when she first started, she felt that the choir needed more than just hymns to sing. The one person said to her that she had to stick with the hymns and that was from the Headquarters. They "strongly suggested" that we should sing the hymns of Zion and there was no need to vary from that directive. The person who told Bonnie that has been a bishop in another ward. He was in stewardship over the choir.
It gave her pause, but she succumbed to that counsel. After a time, she talked to the bishop and he said to choose what she wanted and he would approve them as he felt. He loves Bonnie and has approved everything she has proposed the choir sing.
Well, yesterday we went to a funeral, one of my daughter's husband's uncles. Since the Prophet is related he showed up, and of course spoke. (You tell me why he would feel impressed to talk about music and the Choir, in a funeral.) Well he bore witness that when he was called as Prophet, the first thing he did was tell everyone that one of his duties would be advising the Tabernacle Choir. (I guess each prophet chooses his own corner, his own duties???) One person in the church asked him after he chose that responsibility, "Will they sing what is right?" Can you imagine asking the prophet that? He replied, "There is so much good music that is not contained in our hymn books." (Of course I am paraphrasing, since I am SO very old.) But that was the gist of his comments. Bonnie just smiled. The prophet confirmed her heart felt feelings about music.
I feel that one thing Bonnie will be doing on our mission is being involved in music. And from the words of the Prophet Tuesday, she will take the words of the prophet with her. And I would suggest that she will influence many, many people with music wherever we go. Perhaps the elders, the sisters, the members, and even non-members will be touched with the music she brings, teaches, encourages, etc.
Miracles are often just the witness of the Spirit in our lives that come at different, unexpected times. I think I will quote myself. That is a good definition of miracles. BUT does it matter if no one listens. It is still a good quote, is it not?
Bonnie loves music. She has always loved music. In Perry, I "campaigned" to get her called as the choir director. It finally happened and she was wonderful. She had about forty singers coming to choir practice each week. We sang difficult songs and challenged the choir members. They loved it.
Then when we arrived in Lehi, I once again campaigned and the bishop happened to be looking for a choir director. She received that call again. She has done well, having a great choir, coming because they love the music she chooses as she expects much out of them. They deliver.
Well, when she first started, she felt that the choir needed more than just hymns to sing. The one person said to her that she had to stick with the hymns and that was from the Headquarters. They "strongly suggested" that we should sing the hymns of Zion and there was no need to vary from that directive. The person who told Bonnie that has been a bishop in another ward. He was in stewardship over the choir.
It gave her pause, but she succumbed to that counsel. After a time, she talked to the bishop and he said to choose what she wanted and he would approve them as he felt. He loves Bonnie and has approved everything she has proposed the choir sing.
Well, yesterday we went to a funeral, one of my daughter's husband's uncles. Since the Prophet is related he showed up, and of course spoke. (You tell me why he would feel impressed to talk about music and the Choir, in a funeral.) Well he bore witness that when he was called as Prophet, the first thing he did was tell everyone that one of his duties would be advising the Tabernacle Choir. (I guess each prophet chooses his own corner, his own duties???) One person in the church asked him after he chose that responsibility, "Will they sing what is right?" Can you imagine asking the prophet that? He replied, "There is so much good music that is not contained in our hymn books." (Of course I am paraphrasing, since I am SO very old.) But that was the gist of his comments. Bonnie just smiled. The prophet confirmed her heart felt feelings about music.
I feel that one thing Bonnie will be doing on our mission is being involved in music. And from the words of the Prophet Tuesday, she will take the words of the prophet with her. And I would suggest that she will influence many, many people with music wherever we go. Perhaps the elders, the sisters, the members, and even non-members will be touched with the music she brings, teaches, encourages, etc.
Miracles are often just the witness of the Spirit in our lives that come at different, unexpected times. I think I will quote myself. That is a good definition of miracles. BUT does it matter if no one listens. It is still a good quote, is it not?
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
DAY 32 -- The Opera Miracle
When I started this thing, it was almost impossible to believe that I would ever get to numbers this low, only 32 days. I would hope when we get to M day (that is mission day) we will know where we are going and what we will be going. Perhaps not. When the bishops says, "These things take time" I wonder if it is the same as someone saying, "Soon" it will happen. Rememeber, soon can mean as many as 80 years according to the Book of Mormon. (The BOM says that Christ would appear soon, and he came 80 years later.) (Isn't it nice to have insights what words mean?)
It is sort of like few. What does "few" mean? Well according to our scriptures, few means 8. Now I know many of you are wondering how I am so wise as to say that few means 8. Well, it says in the Bible that "few" were saved in the flood, and we all know that there were eight saved in the floor, thus "few" must mean 8, right?
Another interesting word in the Book of Mormon is "Wonderful." In many of the battle chapters, when they have a massacre, or many die, it is termed a wonderful battle. I would imagine that wonderful meant something along the lines of a great big number, rather than the meaning we use today for that word. I mean, when Bonnie and I get our call, it will be wonderful. Can you correlate the two meanings of wonderful, our receiving a call and the destruction of thousands of lives? I can't.
Anyway, we are thirty two days away from our dream of serving as missioinaries. Or at least that is when we will celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. We planned on June 9, 2011 to work towards serving a mission when we celebrate 40 years. We have done all we can do, and now wait for others to do their "thing" to tell us what we need to know, where and when.
I keep telling Bonnie that it is not beyond imagination that we could be serving in 32 days. I mean you hear stories when missionaries are called and are needed immediately in their new position. It does not happen too often that missionaries are called and expected that fast, but it does happen. On the other hand, we could be still waiting in 32 weeks? I mean, if we go somewhere that requires a visa, and at times they take "forever" to get. We have all heard stories of waiting, waiting, and more waiting for visas to come. So, only thirty two days. 768 hours. Are we ready? As far as we can be now.
We have seen many miracles through the last year during this preparation. We have recorded them here on this blog, but need to create a different list that only specifies miracles. One of recent happening, I went to an opera on Monday. That was truly a miracle. It is one that I will not fondly remember, but it was certainly a miracle. I think it was called, "Kill Mice and then...." My counsel to you, if you have any kind of a choice, do not go..., unless you are counting miracles and need one to please your wife who loves operas.
It is sort of like few. What does "few" mean? Well according to our scriptures, few means 8. Now I know many of you are wondering how I am so wise as to say that few means 8. Well, it says in the Bible that "few" were saved in the flood, and we all know that there were eight saved in the floor, thus "few" must mean 8, right?
Another interesting word in the Book of Mormon is "Wonderful." In many of the battle chapters, when they have a massacre, or many die, it is termed a wonderful battle. I would imagine that wonderful meant something along the lines of a great big number, rather than the meaning we use today for that word. I mean, when Bonnie and I get our call, it will be wonderful. Can you correlate the two meanings of wonderful, our receiving a call and the destruction of thousands of lives? I can't.
Anyway, we are thirty two days away from our dream of serving as missioinaries. Or at least that is when we will celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary. We planned on June 9, 2011 to work towards serving a mission when we celebrate 40 years. We have done all we can do, and now wait for others to do their "thing" to tell us what we need to know, where and when.
I keep telling Bonnie that it is not beyond imagination that we could be serving in 32 days. I mean you hear stories when missionaries are called and are needed immediately in their new position. It does not happen too often that missionaries are called and expected that fast, but it does happen. On the other hand, we could be still waiting in 32 weeks? I mean, if we go somewhere that requires a visa, and at times they take "forever" to get. We have all heard stories of waiting, waiting, and more waiting for visas to come. So, only thirty two days. 768 hours. Are we ready? As far as we can be now.
We have seen many miracles through the last year during this preparation. We have recorded them here on this blog, but need to create a different list that only specifies miracles. One of recent happening, I went to an opera on Monday. That was truly a miracle. It is one that I will not fondly remember, but it was certainly a miracle. I think it was called, "Kill Mice and then...." My counsel to you, if you have any kind of a choice, do not go..., unless you are counting miracles and need one to please your wife who loves operas.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Day 33 -- Opera Time? Yeah!
In that constant thought that goes through my mind about this wait, and after the bishop said on Sunday that things take time, I have felt a peace, a comfort that the events, our thoughts, the statements of others are very important. This waiting period between doing all we can do to serve as missionaries and waiting until we actually get a call dispelling many questions, this period is also for a reason. I know that one day in the future, I will look back, glean from this waiting, learn from these days and questions, understand the waiting and be grateful for it. Really. Often hind sight is 20 - 20 vision.
As I drove to work today, I felt a tiny bit of inspiration telling me that Bonnie and I are in Father's hands. His wishes are that we go through these waiting days. The lessons learned will be for us, and for others as well.
Bonnie asked the other day if there was something that we should stop doing, or something that we have not done that needs to be done. Do I need to do something at work BEFORE we get our call? Bonnie is quitting in about three weeks, so perhaps it does not include her? Perhaps there is something that I need to do before we get to be missionaries? If you know what it is, please drop me a message so I can do it.
Last night I did what needs to be done in a marriage. I sacrificed for Bonnie. It was a night when the Jazz were going to be kicked out of the playoffs and I was excited to watch it. Bonnie asked why, since they would get creamed again. I just love basketball and I wanted to watch "our team". I mean come on, they are OUR team. Then one of our long ago friends called and said that they had tickets to the OPERA. Great! It was the opera, "Of Mice or Men." Or was it, "Of Mice and Men," or "To Mice and Men?" Or maybe even, "Though Mice to Men?" Or maybe, "Men acting like Mice." Who knows?
If anyone knows me, opera is one of the least, least things I would like to do, especially on a game night. I wanted to take my ipod and a pillow to the theater, but marriage is sacrificing for your spouse, right? And Bonnie has sacrificed for my sports addiction most of our marriage and supported me. She has even come to enjoy some sports events, and even sort of enjoyed it.
I wonder how many other husbands did the same as me, went to an opera with their wife to keep peace in the family and to show her that once in a while she wins, even on game day. I'll bet there were more than a few there.
Maybe this was one of those things that has to be done before we get our call? I guess time will tell what other things have to be done before our call. Maybe our call will also wait until BYU plays UTAH in football this fall? (Another blow out like last year?)
Either way, I know that Father is aware of our wait and sanctioning the timing of what we are currently waiting for. We are learning more than we think, and one day we will see clearing through the present fog and mist. Or the present fog and mist will be gone? (Maybe it was "From Mice to Men? Or even Being Mice but acting like Men? It is not something I will remember too long.)
As I drove to work today, I felt a tiny bit of inspiration telling me that Bonnie and I are in Father's hands. His wishes are that we go through these waiting days. The lessons learned will be for us, and for others as well.
Bonnie asked the other day if there was something that we should stop doing, or something that we have not done that needs to be done. Do I need to do something at work BEFORE we get our call? Bonnie is quitting in about three weeks, so perhaps it does not include her? Perhaps there is something that I need to do before we get to be missionaries? If you know what it is, please drop me a message so I can do it.
Last night I did what needs to be done in a marriage. I sacrificed for Bonnie. It was a night when the Jazz were going to be kicked out of the playoffs and I was excited to watch it. Bonnie asked why, since they would get creamed again. I just love basketball and I wanted to watch "our team". I mean come on, they are OUR team. Then one of our long ago friends called and said that they had tickets to the OPERA. Great! It was the opera, "Of Mice or Men." Or was it, "Of Mice and Men," or "To Mice and Men?" Or maybe even, "Though Mice to Men?" Or maybe, "Men acting like Mice." Who knows?
If anyone knows me, opera is one of the least, least things I would like to do, especially on a game night. I wanted to take my ipod and a pillow to the theater, but marriage is sacrificing for your spouse, right? And Bonnie has sacrificed for my sports addiction most of our marriage and supported me. She has even come to enjoy some sports events, and even sort of enjoyed it.
I wonder how many other husbands did the same as me, went to an opera with their wife to keep peace in the family and to show her that once in a while she wins, even on game day. I'll bet there were more than a few there.
Maybe this was one of those things that has to be done before we get our call? I guess time will tell what other things have to be done before our call. Maybe our call will also wait until BYU plays UTAH in football this fall? (Another blow out like last year?)
Either way, I know that Father is aware of our wait and sanctioning the timing of what we are currently waiting for. We are learning more than we think, and one day we will see clearing through the present fog and mist. Or the present fog and mist will be gone? (Maybe it was "From Mice to Men? Or even Being Mice but acting like Men? It is not something I will remember too long.)
Monday, May 7, 2012
DAY 34 -- It Takes Time, More Than It Has So Far
Well, another day gone, another Sunday and we still haven't talked with our Stake President. Today when I talked with my Bishop, he said, "Things take time. Are you OK?" I said of course. I am just learning patience and it takes time to do that, right? Over a week ago, he said that all things were done and we should be talking with the President, however a week has gone by and now he says that it takes time.
It is like being in your racing duds and ready to start the race. You are at the starting line waiting for the gun to signal the beginning of the race. You anticipate and listen intently for the sound, but it does not come. We are ready to start the race, ready to fun, ready to begin serving, but don't hear the signal. Many people has asked if we are "anxious." I guess we are. What can you say?
We are reading "Preach My Gospel" every Sunday. Each week we read a chapter. It is written specifically for younger missionaries. At least as far as we have read, it is for those young missionaries. Perhaps as we get into Preach My Gospel more, it may be for us OLDER ones.
As we read it, it tells us what to do when we teach. Then we pause and wonder if we will be teaching at all. I guess when the starting gun sounds, we will have more of an idea what we will be doing. Or perhaps not? I don't know.
It is a joy to spend time with our kids and grand kids. Saturday we attended a birthday party for one of our younger ones. I looked around, seeing most of my kids and their families and wondered how many more times I would be able to do that. The way things are seeming to go, we may be here next May 5th for her next birthday party. I assume that was very much a bad attitude and not prophetic?
Yes, it takes time bishop and we will wait as long as it takes. We continue to prepare. We went to the temple and did Initiatory and again marveled in the blessings that are pronounced there. I am sure we will miss the blessings of the temple, if we go.... I mean if we go to a place where there is not a temple.
It is like being in your racing duds and ready to start the race. You are at the starting line waiting for the gun to signal the beginning of the race. You anticipate and listen intently for the sound, but it does not come. We are ready to start the race, ready to fun, ready to begin serving, but don't hear the signal. Many people has asked if we are "anxious." I guess we are. What can you say?
We are reading "Preach My Gospel" every Sunday. Each week we read a chapter. It is written specifically for younger missionaries. At least as far as we have read, it is for those young missionaries. Perhaps as we get into Preach My Gospel more, it may be for us OLDER ones.
As we read it, it tells us what to do when we teach. Then we pause and wonder if we will be teaching at all. I guess when the starting gun sounds, we will have more of an idea what we will be doing. Or perhaps not? I don't know.
It is a joy to spend time with our kids and grand kids. Saturday we attended a birthday party for one of our younger ones. I looked around, seeing most of my kids and their families and wondered how many more times I would be able to do that. The way things are seeming to go, we may be here next May 5th for her next birthday party. I assume that was very much a bad attitude and not prophetic?
Yes, it takes time bishop and we will wait as long as it takes. We continue to prepare. We went to the temple and did Initiatory and again marveled in the blessings that are pronounced there. I am sure we will miss the blessings of the temple, if we go.... I mean if we go to a place where there is not a temple.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
DAY 35 -- Patience with my Impatience
I feel like one of my pregnant daughters. "When are you due?" "Haven't you had that baby yet?" "Boy, you are sure getting fat." (Now you better be ready to fun fast if you say that one.) (Or this one.) "Are you having twins or triplets?"
We get the same thing. "Where are you going on your mission." "Have you had your interview yet?" "Have your gotten your call yet?" "Where do you want to go?"
These things, mostly, are out of our hands. When a pre-mortal spirit decides to come into mortality, or when our Father sends him to leave that life and enter this one, it is something that we do not control. Where we are going, or when is also out of our control.
When "friends" ask those questions, we just say, not yet, or she says, one of these days. I am due.... These are lessons in patience I would suggest. So I am not the only one learning patience. I guess it is a pretty universal lesson that has to be learned by all of Father's children. Though He chooses to teach it in a different way, He is teaching this concept.
When one is waiting for a raise at work, when one is waiting for an interview and then waiting for an offer, when one is waiting for income tax returns to arrive, when one is waiting for the Second Coming, all these things develop patience.
I am so grateful for a Father who has patience with me and my impatience. Some day I hope to graduate from the school of Patience, get my diploma and hang it out so everyone can see it and say, "Finally, he learned."
We get the same thing. "Where are you going on your mission." "Have you had your interview yet?" "Have your gotten your call yet?" "Where do you want to go?"
These things, mostly, are out of our hands. When a pre-mortal spirit decides to come into mortality, or when our Father sends him to leave that life and enter this one, it is something that we do not control. Where we are going, or when is also out of our control.
When "friends" ask those questions, we just say, not yet, or she says, one of these days. I am due.... These are lessons in patience I would suggest. So I am not the only one learning patience. I guess it is a pretty universal lesson that has to be learned by all of Father's children. Though He chooses to teach it in a different way, He is teaching this concept.
When one is waiting for a raise at work, when one is waiting for an interview and then waiting for an offer, when one is waiting for income tax returns to arrive, when one is waiting for the Second Coming, all these things develop patience.
I am so grateful for a Father who has patience with me and my impatience. Some day I hope to graduate from the school of Patience, get my diploma and hang it out so everyone can see it and say, "Finally, he learned."
Saturday, May 5, 2012
DAY 36 -- Taking a Siesta Daily
If we were to take today as a "sign" we would assume we are going to a Spanish speaking mission. Today is the cinqo de Mayo. It is a celebration all over the world in Hispanic circles. It means I guess that we should all go out to tacos, enchiladas, tortillas, or something HOT.
It makes my mind fly hundreds of miles, years, and lustrums to remember that in Mexico, each city closed down from 1 in the afternoon until 4 for a siesta. Then they kept running until about 10. That way, they had sort of two days in one. I loved the siesta, and as I am a bit older than most of the world, I believe old people should follow that tradition, take a siesta every day for a few hours.
If you did that, you would be awake, alive, excited, and enthusiastic much more of the day. So, perhaps we could get one of those running for President this year to use it as part of his campaign. "Hire me and I shall initialize the daily Siesta." I would imagine that he would get many of the Latin Americans to vote for him. It may make the difference in the election. I think I will call those involved and see if they would listen to me, and then they would pay me that $50,000 that I seek.
I dreamed last night that the interview by the Stake President was not going to be necessary. So our papers are now in SLC and the brethren are considering where to send us. Of course it was probably a dream coming from something I ate? Dreams are often visions, but most often in my case the result of eating something that I should not have eaten, or some malfunction in my stomach or head. Who knows?
Bonnie and I still talk each day about the upcoming mission. Our enthusiasm and excitement is not waning. In fact, since we know that each day we are one day closer to ?something? then we know that one day we will indeed finally be missionaries serving together. It is difficult not to talk about when or where, but soon it will happen, and we are still excited.
I often think of Bonnie's and my parents watching us as we prepare and move toward being missionaries. I often wonder what they think of us, our goals. I often wonder if they are close enough to touch our minds, our dreams, our feelings. I often listen real hard, feel real hard, hoping that I could get some kinds of contact from my father or mother as we wait for our mission call. I know they are proud of us and are aware of our future service as missionaries. Wish I could talk with my father for a few seconds. Perhaps I do when I sleep, who knows.
As we approach another weekend, I imagine that a weekend, a Sunday would be a good day for the Stake President to talk with us and push the button. Well, I guess we shall know in another few hours whether it is going to be this weekend or next, or next month? I guess I am getting patient.
It makes my mind fly hundreds of miles, years, and lustrums to remember that in Mexico, each city closed down from 1 in the afternoon until 4 for a siesta. Then they kept running until about 10. That way, they had sort of two days in one. I loved the siesta, and as I am a bit older than most of the world, I believe old people should follow that tradition, take a siesta every day for a few hours.
If you did that, you would be awake, alive, excited, and enthusiastic much more of the day. So, perhaps we could get one of those running for President this year to use it as part of his campaign. "Hire me and I shall initialize the daily Siesta." I would imagine that he would get many of the Latin Americans to vote for him. It may make the difference in the election. I think I will call those involved and see if they would listen to me, and then they would pay me that $50,000 that I seek.
I dreamed last night that the interview by the Stake President was not going to be necessary. So our papers are now in SLC and the brethren are considering where to send us. Of course it was probably a dream coming from something I ate? Dreams are often visions, but most often in my case the result of eating something that I should not have eaten, or some malfunction in my stomach or head. Who knows?
Bonnie and I still talk each day about the upcoming mission. Our enthusiasm and excitement is not waning. In fact, since we know that each day we are one day closer to ?something? then we know that one day we will indeed finally be missionaries serving together. It is difficult not to talk about when or where, but soon it will happen, and we are still excited.
I often think of Bonnie's and my parents watching us as we prepare and move toward being missionaries. I often wonder what they think of us, our goals. I often wonder if they are close enough to touch our minds, our dreams, our feelings. I often listen real hard, feel real hard, hoping that I could get some kinds of contact from my father or mother as we wait for our mission call. I know they are proud of us and are aware of our future service as missionaries. Wish I could talk with my father for a few seconds. Perhaps I do when I sleep, who knows.
As we approach another weekend, I imagine that a weekend, a Sunday would be a good day for the Stake President to talk with us and push the button. Well, I guess we shall know in another few hours whether it is going to be this weekend or next, or next month? I guess I am getting patient.
Friday, May 4, 2012
DAY 37 -- Retirement
As I have reviewed my blog posts lately, there is much posted about waiting. Interesting isn't it? Especially since everyone I know tells me I have to learn patience and be more patient. Could that be a sign indicating what is coming in our mission, the next 18 months? I am sure it is an Eternal Principle. I am sure Father in Heaven is very patient and has it on his "to do" list to teach Bill Partridge patience.
The other day I mentioned that my wife and I were going to go on a mission this summer. The individual said, "I wish I could retire and go on missions with my wife." I wanted to say, but didn't, "So do I." What is retirement? Since I am not retiring I might be totally in error, but I would propose that retirement is a time when one can quit working and live on their life savings, and not worry about the 9-5 daily pressures. It takes an amount to live, to eat, to entertain, to pay rent, etc. That amount required for the older, or even some younger people, must be provided for retired people. Retirement means no money coming in trade for the time we donate every day to the employer, or the business. Investments early in life, pensions, stocks, lottery, savings, inheritances, robbing a bank or three, etc. all these things provide for retirement.
Many think that retirement is not working. Many retire and go vacationing the rest of their life. Many retire and sit at home and do nothing, watch TV, read books, and just seek out entertainment to fill the time. They "enjoy" the easy life without commitments to anyone else to be anywhere at any time.
Sadly, I have seen those who have retired, doing nothing, physically age ten to fifteen years in their looks, in their health, and in their attitude in only TWO years. They don't understand the joy of, and need of some type of work, of challenge, something to make their mind active and vibrant.
I am getting off what I wanted to say today. Retirement. In light of what my friend said a few days go, I am retiring. I am leaving a job, responsibilities of being a father and grand father in exchange for giving time, talents, experiences to help build the Kingdom. I am entering the missionary-force of the Kingdom with very little means to do so. I am putting it in Father's hand how to provide while serving, and also upon returning in 18 months. I am exercising faith in His all capable ability to inspire me how to provide. We both feel we should go on a mission now, and leave what happens later to Him.
We are putting our lives in His hands. We both love and appreciate the song/hymn "Consider the Lilies of the Field." If He knows how to take care of every sparrow, He certainly knows our heart, our desire to serve, and how things will fall into place as we return. He knows that I am "retiring" and I am offering my all, our lives to Him for the immediate future with faith that all will fall into place according to His control, during the next 18 months as well as when we return.
So when someone asks if I am retiring, I should respond, "Yes I am." I am rich. I have an Eternal Bank Account with Father that is filled with our faith, the blessings that He will give us, and the knowledge that all things are in His hands. I am retiring in the spiritual sense of things. Perhaps going on this mission will continue to add deposits to our account which will provide for our life when we get home. I leave it up to Him.
It seems that I can exercise my faith in Father easier than I can learn patience. There seems to be something wrong there I believe. Guess I better learn...
The other day I mentioned that my wife and I were going to go on a mission this summer. The individual said, "I wish I could retire and go on missions with my wife." I wanted to say, but didn't, "So do I." What is retirement? Since I am not retiring I might be totally in error, but I would propose that retirement is a time when one can quit working and live on their life savings, and not worry about the 9-5 daily pressures. It takes an amount to live, to eat, to entertain, to pay rent, etc. That amount required for the older, or even some younger people, must be provided for retired people. Retirement means no money coming in trade for the time we donate every day to the employer, or the business. Investments early in life, pensions, stocks, lottery, savings, inheritances, robbing a bank or three, etc. all these things provide for retirement.
Many think that retirement is not working. Many retire and go vacationing the rest of their life. Many retire and sit at home and do nothing, watch TV, read books, and just seek out entertainment to fill the time. They "enjoy" the easy life without commitments to anyone else to be anywhere at any time.
Sadly, I have seen those who have retired, doing nothing, physically age ten to fifteen years in their looks, in their health, and in their attitude in only TWO years. They don't understand the joy of, and need of some type of work, of challenge, something to make their mind active and vibrant.
I am getting off what I wanted to say today. Retirement. In light of what my friend said a few days go, I am retiring. I am leaving a job, responsibilities of being a father and grand father in exchange for giving time, talents, experiences to help build the Kingdom. I am entering the missionary-force of the Kingdom with very little means to do so. I am putting it in Father's hand how to provide while serving, and also upon returning in 18 months. I am exercising faith in His all capable ability to inspire me how to provide. We both feel we should go on a mission now, and leave what happens later to Him.
We are putting our lives in His hands. We both love and appreciate the song/hymn "Consider the Lilies of the Field." If He knows how to take care of every sparrow, He certainly knows our heart, our desire to serve, and how things will fall into place as we return. He knows that I am "retiring" and I am offering my all, our lives to Him for the immediate future with faith that all will fall into place according to His control, during the next 18 months as well as when we return.
So when someone asks if I am retiring, I should respond, "Yes I am." I am rich. I have an Eternal Bank Account with Father that is filled with our faith, the blessings that He will give us, and the knowledge that all things are in His hands. I am retiring in the spiritual sense of things. Perhaps going on this mission will continue to add deposits to our account which will provide for our life when we get home. I leave it up to Him.
It seems that I can exercise my faith in Father easier than I can learn patience. There seems to be something wrong there I believe. Guess I better learn...
Thursday, May 3, 2012
DAY 38 -- What Are You Waiting For????
What are you waiting for? What are we waiting for? I have heard that question many times. What exactly are we waiting for? I guess we are waiting for the Stake President to talk with us. No. We are actually waiting for an assignment. We are offering our "all" to the Lord to use as He sees fit. We have a unique set of experiences, opportunity of serving in the Kingdom, and talents, some brought from the Pre-Mortal life, and some developed here.
What are we waiting for? We are waiting for the privilege of serving, using those talents and helping in the work of the Kingdom. We are waiting for the privilege of meeting strangers, turning them into beloved fellow members of the Church, rubbing shoulders with them as we both learn, grow, serve, struggle, and love. We are waiting for the privilege of leaving behind "life" as we know it, have known it for many years.
What are we waiting for? We are waiting for the privilege of getting to grow closer to our Father in Heaven and His Son Jesus Christ. We are waiting for the privilege of learning, growing, becoming stronger in the Spirit, having a much stronger testimony of the truth we know and love.
We are waiting for the envelope that will come in the mail which will tell us "where" we will be going to enjoy the fulfillment of the waiting mentioned above. Within that letter, we will find out the timing of these things and when these things will start to happen.
What are we waiting for? We are waiting for the privilege of being used as tools in Father's hands to make a different in a location, in part of the Kingdom, and in the lives of others, while many lessons are learned within our own souls.
When my daughter was waiting for her husband, she questioned whether it would ever happen. Of course it did finally happen. Often many wait to receive their income tax returns, and it does finally come usually? Many wait for the time when the price of gas will drop down to less than $1 per gallon. Will it happen?
We are waiting. We are excited for what we know will come soon. (Soon, that is another interesting concept, but for another day.) (Jesus was going to come soon, it turned out to be 80 years.)
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
DAY 39 --- Clouds Above Our Head
I look at the title of this post, "DAY 39" and I am amazed. Today is May 2 and we submitted our papers, we pushed the button on April 3. One month and we wait. Maybe they cannot find anywhere that would be suitable for people like Bon and me. Or all the mission presidents have rejected us? Or, in my lessons of patience, I have not learned even how to spell patience yet. Who knows.
But it is only a a bit more than one small, short, month before we will have reached our goal that we set almost one year ago. There have been miracles. There have been set backs. There have been witnesses. There have been blessings. There have been stupors as well as burning bosoms.
Our desire has not waned, in fact it has grown and become very vibrant. We are continually talking about what will happen when we are finally there, wherever there is. We can't make all the plans that will be necessary, but we are thinking, planning on the coming months, days, etc.
I don't believe I have ever been in a position like this with Bonnie. We are united about going. We are excited and have mentally agreed that we would go wherever. And now we are in a holding pattern. We are going, but where? We are going but when?
"If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." It is difficult because we cannot plan. It is a very interesting situation right now. We cannot plan, yet. Being in a holding pattern is a challenge. It is sort of like circling around a city, high above the city, (in an airplane) wondering when we will get to land. We have many things to do, but all we do is circle.
Most often in this mortality, we have a place to go. We have plans to get there. We discuss with each other our goals and work toward them. Part of that is real now, but part cannot be planned, worked toward until we know more than we do. That holding pattern is very interesting.
Our friends, (Yes, we have a few), our family, others are asking what we cannot tell them, and they add to the challenge of the holding pattern. They all say, "Be sure to let us know."
This morning, I felt this circling pattern more than usual. It was like a cloud over my head, perhaps a brain cloud? Perhaps it was because I did not sleep well. Then as I read my Book of Mormon, I felt a peace flow over me, helping me learn faith, patience, and comfort.
I firmly feel that if we do not touch bases with the Spirit through reading scriptures, praying, or something, there is probably a cloud above us.
But it is only a a bit more than one small, short, month before we will have reached our goal that we set almost one year ago. There have been miracles. There have been set backs. There have been witnesses. There have been blessings. There have been stupors as well as burning bosoms.
Our desire has not waned, in fact it has grown and become very vibrant. We are continually talking about what will happen when we are finally there, wherever there is. We can't make all the plans that will be necessary, but we are thinking, planning on the coming months, days, etc.
I don't believe I have ever been in a position like this with Bonnie. We are united about going. We are excited and have mentally agreed that we would go wherever. And now we are in a holding pattern. We are going, but where? We are going but when?
"If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." It is difficult because we cannot plan. It is a very interesting situation right now. We cannot plan, yet. Being in a holding pattern is a challenge. It is sort of like circling around a city, high above the city, (in an airplane) wondering when we will get to land. We have many things to do, but all we do is circle.
Most often in this mortality, we have a place to go. We have plans to get there. We discuss with each other our goals and work toward them. Part of that is real now, but part cannot be planned, worked toward until we know more than we do. That holding pattern is very interesting.
Our friends, (Yes, we have a few), our family, others are asking what we cannot tell them, and they add to the challenge of the holding pattern. They all say, "Be sure to let us know."
This morning, I felt this circling pattern more than usual. It was like a cloud over my head, perhaps a brain cloud? Perhaps it was because I did not sleep well. Then as I read my Book of Mormon, I felt a peace flow over me, helping me learn faith, patience, and comfort.
I firmly feel that if we do not touch bases with the Spirit through reading scriptures, praying, or something, there is probably a cloud above us.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
DAY 40 -- What Should I Do With My Fishing Pole?
Today is May 1. Another new month starts after 30 days of April. It is amazing how fast/slow these months, these weeks fly away. We only have forty days until we will have been married for 40 years. That is our Mission day. I would assume that we will have our call by then and know where we are going.
May is going to be a busy month. With the ending of school, many of my grand children will have special graduations, programs, plays, etc. Since we won't be around for next years, and other things, we are going to try to hit as many as we can.
We still have many things to decide, but without our call, without knowing where we will be going, it is hard to make those decisions. We don't know what to do with our car. Should we sell it? Should we let someone in our family use it until we get back? Will we be needing it if we go to a place where we could drive and would need a car.
How about our storage unit? Should we sell it all? (The stuff within it?) What should we keep and continue to pay for our storage unit? What should I do with my fishing pole? My basketball? My coin collectioin? My University of Utah hats? Should we get an Ipod, a laptop, or what? Do we need something like that? Will we go some place where we may not need to wear a coat or jacket? (That was the case when I served in Mexico a million years ago.) Or will we go to Siberia where we need layers upon layers to keep moderately warm?
We are reading together "Preach My Gospel" which we should have done long ago, but we are into it now. We are continuing to read the BOM and are just finishing up the war chapters. We will be finishing it up again in June.
I paused today and wondered where we will be in a few months? What will we be doing? Will we be in some mission home, a temple somewhere, or working the Perpetual Education Fund? There are so many possibilities. I don't give much value to where we said we wanted to go since we will go wherever the Brethren tell us to go, with little regard to our listed preferences.
It will be exciting to know where we will be spending the next year and one half. Any guesses? We could hold a lottery and see who wins. I was thinking that with a lottery I may be able to earn that $50,000 I talked about earlier. But the I realized that a lottery would just take it away, not let us earn money. My mind is sort of shot, tired, and....
May is going to be a busy month. With the ending of school, many of my grand children will have special graduations, programs, plays, etc. Since we won't be around for next years, and other things, we are going to try to hit as many as we can.
We still have many things to decide, but without our call, without knowing where we will be going, it is hard to make those decisions. We don't know what to do with our car. Should we sell it? Should we let someone in our family use it until we get back? Will we be needing it if we go to a place where we could drive and would need a car.
How about our storage unit? Should we sell it all? (The stuff within it?) What should we keep and continue to pay for our storage unit? What should I do with my fishing pole? My basketball? My coin collectioin? My University of Utah hats? Should we get an Ipod, a laptop, or what? Do we need something like that? Will we go some place where we may not need to wear a coat or jacket? (That was the case when I served in Mexico a million years ago.) Or will we go to Siberia where we need layers upon layers to keep moderately warm?
We are reading together "Preach My Gospel" which we should have done long ago, but we are into it now. We are continuing to read the BOM and are just finishing up the war chapters. We will be finishing it up again in June.
I paused today and wondered where we will be in a few months? What will we be doing? Will we be in some mission home, a temple somewhere, or working the Perpetual Education Fund? There are so many possibilities. I don't give much value to where we said we wanted to go since we will go wherever the Brethren tell us to go, with little regard to our listed preferences.
It will be exciting to know where we will be spending the next year and one half. Any guesses? We could hold a lottery and see who wins. I was thinking that with a lottery I may be able to earn that $50,000 I talked about earlier. But the I realized that a lottery would just take it away, not let us earn money. My mind is sort of shot, tired, and....
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