Sunday, August 26, 2012
** DAY 8 -- FAREWELL
Sorry, but today is our farewell, and we shall be sort of busy today. We are both bearing testimony of the truth, and preaching on our assigned topic. We will be saying goodbye to beloved friends and family. ONE WEEK, and we shall be set apart. More tomorrow.
Saturday, August 25, 2012
** DAY 9 -- His Vineyard
It has been a long anticipating and thinking, praying for the day when my blog would show that I have only a single digit to wait until we are missionaries. WOW. Only nine days, eight and we will be set apart to be missionaries. Then we will enter the MTC and actually be among the armies of Helaman, serving full time our Savior.
I would imagine as one read this blog, it is hard to really conceptualize the thoughts and feelings I am trying to write. In about one week, we shall leave "normal" life and be separated from who we are today. We shall join thousands of others going through final preparation for entering the world to be His messengers. We are leaving behind family, and so many other mortal challenges and events that fill ones mind daily. We will begin a new chapter of life, seeking His direction in every action taken every day.
As I consider the next two to three weeks, I smile when I try to imagine the tears Bonnie will shed for many special events upcoming. I also know that I shall shed a few, feeling Father's confirmation of what we are doing, what we have decided to do, and where we are going. It is His work, and we are giving all we have to His work in the DR.
It is interesting as I review in my mind the past, the "preparation" part of this mission. It has been very interesting, full of many lessons, blessings, and even speed bumps. Even these last 9 days will be full of speed bumps, challenges, decisions to be made, how to do this, how to do that, what should we keep and what to throw away.
Again, those things are getting in the way of really striving to realize what our mission will be. So we continue the preparation these last nine days, get at it, await the real missionary work, preparation in the MTC, and then finally flying away to the DR.
I love my Savior. I gratefully accept the road blocks, the still present challenges, and know all is in His hands. We are learning, growing, and yet being prepared to serve Him in one small part of His vineyard.
I would imagine as one read this blog, it is hard to really conceptualize the thoughts and feelings I am trying to write. In about one week, we shall leave "normal" life and be separated from who we are today. We shall join thousands of others going through final preparation for entering the world to be His messengers. We are leaving behind family, and so many other mortal challenges and events that fill ones mind daily. We will begin a new chapter of life, seeking His direction in every action taken every day.
As I consider the next two to three weeks, I smile when I try to imagine the tears Bonnie will shed for many special events upcoming. I also know that I shall shed a few, feeling Father's confirmation of what we are doing, what we have decided to do, and where we are going. It is His work, and we are giving all we have to His work in the DR.
It is interesting as I review in my mind the past, the "preparation" part of this mission. It has been very interesting, full of many lessons, blessings, and even speed bumps. Even these last 9 days will be full of speed bumps, challenges, decisions to be made, how to do this, how to do that, what should we keep and what to throw away.
Again, those things are getting in the way of really striving to realize what our mission will be. So we continue the preparation these last nine days, get at it, await the real missionary work, preparation in the MTC, and then finally flying away to the DR.
I love my Savior. I gratefully accept the road blocks, the still present challenges, and know all is in His hands. We are learning, growing, and yet being prepared to serve Him in one small part of His vineyard.
Friday, August 24, 2012
** DAY 10 -- Open Your Mouth
Sunday we will have the privilege of speaking in Sacrament Meeting. There won't be much time, but we will be able to share testimony about what we will be doing in the coming months. The rest hymn will be " Called To Serve" and I am sure we will both blubber through it. Then I get to speak. Nice. I was driving to our storage unit yesterday, listening to my Ipod and bawled through it as I listened to it. I really don't believe the reality of us serving as full time missionaries has settled into my mind.
Being missionaries is serving in one arm of the three pronged goals of the church. As young missionaries, we are involved in proclaiming the gospel, searching for those interested in the truth, teaching the gospel, and tracting. Young missionaries are often also involved in finding those who have lost their way and helping them come back to the fold.
Old missionaries, or should I say senior missionaries, are often involved perfecting the saints. My parents served four missions, and most often they were setting up family history centers, and activation. Bonnie and I will be involved mainly with strengthening the youth of the church, teaching them the gospel, encouraging them to remain faithful, and recruiting those who have lost their way, or at least lost their enthusiasm for the gospel.
When we are in the MTC, we will also be learning all about the Perpetual Education Fund. We will be teaching a six pronged preparation plan for those interested in using this Fund. We may also be used by the younger missionaries to help teach some of the older investigators looking into the church.
Since I loved the proselyting so much, I am going to try to be involved with that kind of work also, finding new interested people who want to learn the truth. There are thousands who are seeking the truth and know not where to find it.
I am haunted by the scripture in D and C which says that Father is not well pleased with those elders who won't upon their mouth. I hope I remember that scripture and never pause to worry about opening my mouth. We will be living around many who are not members of the church, and often all that is needed is to open one's mouth and invite them to know the truth, the joy, and the peace the gospel brings. I am excited to open my mouth in the DR.
Being missionaries is serving in one arm of the three pronged goals of the church. As young missionaries, we are involved in proclaiming the gospel, searching for those interested in the truth, teaching the gospel, and tracting. Young missionaries are often also involved in finding those who have lost their way and helping them come back to the fold.
Old missionaries, or should I say senior missionaries, are often involved perfecting the saints. My parents served four missions, and most often they were setting up family history centers, and activation. Bonnie and I will be involved mainly with strengthening the youth of the church, teaching them the gospel, encouraging them to remain faithful, and recruiting those who have lost their way, or at least lost their enthusiasm for the gospel.
When we are in the MTC, we will also be learning all about the Perpetual Education Fund. We will be teaching a six pronged preparation plan for those interested in using this Fund. We may also be used by the younger missionaries to help teach some of the older investigators looking into the church.
Since I loved the proselyting so much, I am going to try to be involved with that kind of work also, finding new interested people who want to learn the truth. There are thousands who are seeking the truth and know not where to find it.
I am haunted by the scripture in D and C which says that Father is not well pleased with those elders who won't upon their mouth. I hope I remember that scripture and never pause to worry about opening my mouth. We will be living around many who are not members of the church, and often all that is needed is to open one's mouth and invite them to know the truth, the joy, and the peace the gospel brings. I am excited to open my mouth in the DR.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
** DAY 11 -- Some Dreams Must Wait, Life Isn't Long Enough
Eleven days to departure date, until we enter the MTC. At that time, we will be starting a new blog to report on our mission for those interested in reading what is happening in the DR through our eyes. It will be called: ElderandSisterPartridgeintheDR.blogspot.com. This blog of preparation will be quietly put to rest.
I finally called the doctor and I enter the hospital on Monday to have some procedure done. I am confident that the earthquakes, tornadoes, and the hurricanes happening within will be identified and calmed in the days we have left.
Yesterday, we witnessed the sealing of a dear friend we have known for 35 years. She was sealed after many failed marriages. It was wonderful being in the SL temple and being a part of another person realizing a dream. There were many times in that 35 years when she questioned if it would ever happen, but it finally did.
Father often takes His time to bless the long-awaited dreams. He has His reasons, and at the bottom of His reasons is the concept that He is letting us experience what we need to experience to prepare us for His style of life. I guess thirty five years is not a long time to Him. But in watching this sweet sister struggle through year after year of unanswered prayers, of asking the questions, why, when, what if, etc. But the joy in her eyes yesterday was so sweet and long awaited.
In the popular stage play of "My Turn On Earth" there is a song that rings through my mind often, "Some Dreams Must Wait..." Yes Elder Holland, it is important to learn and to grow, to dream dreams and see visions and work toward them. However, I feel that some dreams will never be realized in this life. No matter what we do, how we prepare, how long we wait, some dreams must wait. (For instance, me catching a fifteen pound fish, or me playing for the Jazz, etc.)
Another sister in the temple with us yesterday whispered in my ear, "Will my time come in this life?" She is another who earnestly seeks the same blessing we witnessed yesterday. I recently gave her a blessing promising her the same realization of that dream. It was with the Spirit's direction, but now we must wait. Father is in charge. So all I can say is, "Patience." What else is there? Will she have to wait 35 years?
I finally called the doctor and I enter the hospital on Monday to have some procedure done. I am confident that the earthquakes, tornadoes, and the hurricanes happening within will be identified and calmed in the days we have left.
Yesterday, we witnessed the sealing of a dear friend we have known for 35 years. She was sealed after many failed marriages. It was wonderful being in the SL temple and being a part of another person realizing a dream. There were many times in that 35 years when she questioned if it would ever happen, but it finally did.
Father often takes His time to bless the long-awaited dreams. He has His reasons, and at the bottom of His reasons is the concept that He is letting us experience what we need to experience to prepare us for His style of life. I guess thirty five years is not a long time to Him. But in watching this sweet sister struggle through year after year of unanswered prayers, of asking the questions, why, when, what if, etc. But the joy in her eyes yesterday was so sweet and long awaited.
In the popular stage play of "My Turn On Earth" there is a song that rings through my mind often, "Some Dreams Must Wait..." Yes Elder Holland, it is important to learn and to grow, to dream dreams and see visions and work toward them. However, I feel that some dreams will never be realized in this life. No matter what we do, how we prepare, how long we wait, some dreams must wait. (For instance, me catching a fifteen pound fish, or me playing for the Jazz, etc.)
Another sister in the temple with us yesterday whispered in my ear, "Will my time come in this life?" She is another who earnestly seeks the same blessing we witnessed yesterday. I recently gave her a blessing promising her the same realization of that dream. It was with the Spirit's direction, but now we must wait. Father is in charge. So all I can say is, "Patience." What else is there? Will she have to wait 35 years?
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
** DAY 12 --- Waiting for the D Date, and the Doctor
Last night we spent a few hours speaking with a couple who served, where we are going, about two years ago. It was so enlightening. They showed us pictures, introduced us to six DR natives, and fed us dinner. It was joyful. The only problem was when I returned home to my pillow, I was awake half the night "seeing" what we were shown, getting excited about being down there, and serving and loving the youth.
I am reminded of a revelation I received many years ago explaining to me the importance of the youth of today's church. They are, and will be the leaders of tomorrow. They are being prepared to help get the world ready for the Second Coming. Bonnie and I will be involved in finding, strengthening, and teaching these youth of the DR. As we talked with a few of the youth from the DR last night, we felt we just wanted to wrap them up, cuddle them, and love them. We were so impressed with each one of them.
I was told by the "Elder" that I should be teaching Institute, at least one class every day. And much of the rest of our time will be recruiting young people to come to Institute. I am sure there will be hundreds of other things that will require our time, but that sounds just pure joy to me, teaching and meeting youth, involving them with activation, gleaning from their dedication to the church, and watching them grow, etc.
I am waiting for a doctor's call to find out about that road block or speed bump that I mentioned yesterday. Isn't it just frustrating to TRY to call a doctor, tell the secretary all about your needs, have them say that the doctor will return the call and then wait, and wait, and wait. And I specifically told the lady that we have only about ten days before we enter the MTC. But I guess she doesn't care, or he doesn't see our urgency. Just another thing to overcome.
I am reminded of a revelation I received many years ago explaining to me the importance of the youth of today's church. They are, and will be the leaders of tomorrow. They are being prepared to help get the world ready for the Second Coming. Bonnie and I will be involved in finding, strengthening, and teaching these youth of the DR. As we talked with a few of the youth from the DR last night, we felt we just wanted to wrap them up, cuddle them, and love them. We were so impressed with each one of them.
I was told by the "Elder" that I should be teaching Institute, at least one class every day. And much of the rest of our time will be recruiting young people to come to Institute. I am sure there will be hundreds of other things that will require our time, but that sounds just pure joy to me, teaching and meeting youth, involving them with activation, gleaning from their dedication to the church, and watching them grow, etc.
I am waiting for a doctor's call to find out about that road block or speed bump that I mentioned yesterday. Isn't it just frustrating to TRY to call a doctor, tell the secretary all about your needs, have them say that the doctor will return the call and then wait, and wait, and wait. And I specifically told the lady that we have only about ten days before we enter the MTC. But I guess she doesn't care, or he doesn't see our urgency. Just another thing to overcome.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
** DAY 13 -- More Speed Bumps
The days keep filling up. We spent yesterday purchasing more of our required clothing and finding a shoe that may even be nice to my large one and my small one. I am going to try them both out and see how they work. I could not find anyone to sell me a nine and a half size with a ten and a half size shoe. Oh well, it was certainly worth a try.
It is interesting to me that when one pursues a dream, does all he can do arrive at the destination, feels good with his progress, then often all of a sudden a speed bump appears in front of him. I am reminded of the scripture that says that "...all things have been done in the wisdom of Him who knoweth all things." So I evaluate the speed bump in front of me at this time and wonder if this is really a speed bump or could it turn into a road block?
We are all placed on this earth to experience life, it's blessings, it's challenges, it's road blocks, and the speed bumps. That experience, how we deal with it determines our future eternal life. So no matter what is in our way to our own planned destination, we need to accept, smile, and learn from.
I could never doubt Father's management of this earth, this life, and especially the things that happen in my life. He knows what I need to prepare me for my future. He knows what Bonnie and I need together to prepare us to be one of those Eternal Companions and be One, with Him. So I do not question His management. I may question my ability to cope with those speed bumps, but I do not question His all loving nurturing care of us.
Thirteen days and counting...
It is interesting to me that when one pursues a dream, does all he can do arrive at the destination, feels good with his progress, then often all of a sudden a speed bump appears in front of him. I am reminded of the scripture that says that "...all things have been done in the wisdom of Him who knoweth all things." So I evaluate the speed bump in front of me at this time and wonder if this is really a speed bump or could it turn into a road block?
We are all placed on this earth to experience life, it's blessings, it's challenges, it's road blocks, and the speed bumps. That experience, how we deal with it determines our future eternal life. So no matter what is in our way to our own planned destination, we need to accept, smile, and learn from.
I could never doubt Father's management of this earth, this life, and especially the things that happen in my life. He knows what I need to prepare me for my future. He knows what Bonnie and I need together to prepare us to be one of those Eternal Companions and be One, with Him. So I do not question His management. I may question my ability to cope with those speed bumps, but I do not question His all loving nurturing care of us.
Thirteen days and counting...
Monday, August 20, 2012
** DAY 14 -- One Big and One Small, Challenge
It is amazing to note that my mind is full of things to do to get ready, but it is also starting to entertain many more thoughts of the upcoming mission. Yes, we will be running for two filled weeks, but my mind is dreaming dreams about what is going to happen to us in the coming 18 months. The excitement is building, replacing the concern about insignificant stuff to be done.
I have a major problem. My feet. You see, I need to purchase shoes that are comfortable, and are missionary-ish. I will be wearing shoes daily, most of the time each day. Well you see, I have been blessed with two different feet. I know, most of you have two different feet also, but mine are more different. One is size nine and one half. The other is ten and one half.
Therefore, when I have a pair of shoes on, one feels snug while the other feels like it is going to fall off. If any of you know someone who has the same problem, please let me know. Then we could both purchase shoes and trade the one large one for the smaller.... You get my idea?
I guess I could put tissues in the end of the shoe. Or I could double up, or crush the larger foot to fit the smaller shoe. Or I could just have one slipping off of my foot daily, and make up some kind of funny story why my feet are as they are.
No, I can't wear slippers throughout my mission. Anyone have an idea what I could do? It is truly an obstacle. But miracles happen and perhaps one will drop a half size or the whole size? Ever hear of anyone having his foot change a full size before? Well, that is one that I am challenged with currently.
Bonnie continues to study Spanish and is doing well. She amazes me how much she is learning and how much she studies. She keeps looking at me and saying, "This is like a foreign language..." (for some of you, that is a movie quote, don't know which movie, but our family often plays in movies quotes.) Yes my dear companion, it IS a foreign language.
I hope my language comes back to me like riding a bike. I knew Spanish once, and it sounds so very good to me, I am expecting another miracle to help me be as fluent as I once was.
Two weeks from today we will be at the MTC. It is coming fast.
I have a major problem. My feet. You see, I need to purchase shoes that are comfortable, and are missionary-ish. I will be wearing shoes daily, most of the time each day. Well you see, I have been blessed with two different feet. I know, most of you have two different feet also, but mine are more different. One is size nine and one half. The other is ten and one half.
Therefore, when I have a pair of shoes on, one feels snug while the other feels like it is going to fall off. If any of you know someone who has the same problem, please let me know. Then we could both purchase shoes and trade the one large one for the smaller.... You get my idea?
I guess I could put tissues in the end of the shoe. Or I could double up, or crush the larger foot to fit the smaller shoe. Or I could just have one slipping off of my foot daily, and make up some kind of funny story why my feet are as they are.
No, I can't wear slippers throughout my mission. Anyone have an idea what I could do? It is truly an obstacle. But miracles happen and perhaps one will drop a half size or the whole size? Ever hear of anyone having his foot change a full size before? Well, that is one that I am challenged with currently.
Bonnie continues to study Spanish and is doing well. She amazes me how much she is learning and how much she studies. She keeps looking at me and saying, "This is like a foreign language..." (for some of you, that is a movie quote, don't know which movie, but our family often plays in movies quotes.) Yes my dear companion, it IS a foreign language.
I hope my language comes back to me like riding a bike. I knew Spanish once, and it sounds so very good to me, I am expecting another miracle to help me be as fluent as I once was.
Two weeks from today we will be at the MTC. It is coming fast.
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