Things are going a lot better lately. My companion is so hilarious. He seemed shy at first, but holy smokes, he's just the opposite, and he is one of those people that has really out of the blue things happen to him, and only him. He was just giving me the whole, "I don't know what to write to my family, I will see them next week," speech. I am gonna miss him.
This Friday are phone calls about transfers, that’s when we find out about the next two months of our lives and how it's going to change. Yes, next Monday is our Preparation day. I will miss Elder Tuveson. He was definitely a friend of mine sometime before this life. He was telling me a story about one time when he was out contacting with a native companion. (Before I tell you this, I need to teach you that the word for "religious sect" is very similar to "chicken patty") So, one time he was teaching with his companion and what he was trying to say was, "Our church is completely different than other churches." But instead he said, "Our chicken patty is completely different than other chicken patties." haha! He continued preaching, but didn't know why his companion and the person he was teaching were laughing so hard.. Well, in the end, the guy didn't set up. It’s just a kind of funny story. That’s why tones are so important when speaking Chinese.
I remember when we were talking to a grandma, and I said "We are here to help you", but I said "help" with wrong tones, so it came out "We are here to kidnap you!" Ha, ha, dangit, ha, ha, ha.
A lot of weird and funny things happen with Elder Tuveson. Right now he is prophesying to me about how he is going to beat the sisters in our district at bowling today. He lost last time.
We had a typhoon two days ago and it was bad enough that they wouldn't let us go outside. It was nice to get some sleep and extra studies in and it was fun. I don't know what will happen next transfer. I hope I can stay in San Chong with the Su family. Whatever happens though, I know its what the Lord wants of me.
As I was saying, the work has been GREAT recently. Our district is still doing awesome, and this week our investigators have been taking big steps. Joyce asked us to share the plan of salvation with her kids. Our goal with her right now is to help her with a solid testimony. She is so, so close.
Last night something cool happened. Every week we go over to the Lu family house and teach them English. There are two families with six kids total. Four of them are mei mei's (little sisters or little girls). Anyway, these kids are always really, really, really, ridiculously naughty! It is really, really, really hard to teach, but we go over there every week to serve. We always invite them to come to church, but they have never had any interest...at all. But, yesterday, as we were leaving one of them asked me, "What is that blue book you are always carrying?” and "I tried praying for you guys, like you said that you pray in your church. Do you feel any different?" I said "YES! Right now I feel awesome!” In the end we committed them to read the Book of Mormon, to pray every night, and come to church this week. Both mothers are very excited! It’s interesting how mere service and the example of two missionaries can be enough for people to hearken unto the message.
I love how Heavenly Father takes care of missionary work. It is so awesome. He's been blessing us to get a lot more setups lately and new investigators to work with. We just need to get these people in the baptismal pool, especially the Su family. I know I came to Taiwan for this Su family. I love them so much. They will be baptized. It is my biggest wish that I can go to the temple with their whole family while I am still on my mission. I will send you pictures of them soon. They are so close. She almost has that testimony, she actually does, but she hasn't recognized it yet.
I have to go..... The Book of Mormon is the word of God, truly. I love you,
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
I love, love, love my mission!!!
Things are FANtabulus! I love, love, love, love, love being a missionary! Holy smokes, things have been going pretty well. We've been meeting with a couple families, and some singles. Some have committed to baptism and some haven't. Our district has been working with the Lin, the Li and the Wu families. They are awesome and they all have the cutest mei mei's in the world. Anyway, they have all committed to be baptized. They are awesome families and it’s been a great opportunity for one elder in our district who's been struggling with his testimony, waiting to see some miracles.
Heavenly Father is blessing our district right now. Our district has 6 missionaries. I had a chance to go on an exchange with the elder whose testimony isn't quite there yet. He came onto the island with me, but I didn't know that he's been having problems. My companion is district leader and he said to me, "Do what you can to get his faith back up, show him how to have fun as a missionary.” Heavenly Father gave me a lot of opportunities to bear testimony to him, without me having to focus it right on him.
He's having a lot of questions about the church lately and just not had the faith or desire to progress as a missionary. But when he came into my area for exchanges, it was a true blessing, because I got to bear testimony and talk ALL about the SU family and discuss all of their problems with him. I talked about how true our church is in every possible aspect, all the way from the Book of Mormon and perfect doctrine, including the "17 steps to a true church,” a Harvard study. I talked about how our church has the power of the Holy Ghost as a witness of truth. Our church is unbeatable, hahaha, (maybe cause Christ is at the head of it). It was great. I explained everything that I've ever really wanted to share with the Su family, with him. So basically, I had the opportunity to teach him that this church is true in 100 different ways.
I shared with him my studies for the Su family. I talked about everything: why we have prophets, revelation, authority...everything. It was all directed toward the Su family, but he got to listen to me as I talked about them, hahaha, so I think I got to help him a little. He's been improving a lot lately, and the miracles that our district has been seeing lately, I think have added to his faith.
We saw a couple miracles when we went out tracting together. I would always tell him, "Elder H, it’s because or your faith,” or, “You’re such a good man Elder H." Heavenly Father has been giving him a lot of opportunities to gain a testimony, so yeah, our district is doing well.....
I love my companion. He is so, so funny and he has an awesome testimony of "the truth". Truth is truth, and it’s in the message we are sharing. Oh man, he is so awesome and I will miss him. Heavenly Father has given me the opportunity to have some AWESOME companions. Elder Tuveson is such a humble man. We read the Book of Mormon together in Chinese every night. We help each other through it, because it’s hard. I love it though. He is such a funny guy, and he loves bowling! We went last week with our district and he was terrible at it, but he loved every minute of it. I love my companion.
I cannot even begin to tell you how much a mission changes people. Holy smokes. The last lesson we shared with Joyce was about Mothers, since we were reading about the armies of Helaman. I bore testimony about mothers to Joyce and the influence they have on us growing up. Dads, too. I took so much for granted before my mission. Holy smokes, I'm sorry. I just want to thank you for preparing me to serve this mission. I know you didn't doubt it. Heavenly Father delivers those who have faith. My parents have faith.
Joyce is so close to being baptized. She found out how much I love her family for real, because I left my mission planner at her house on accident and she read it. She didn't tell us that she did, but it’s kind of obvious. Anyway, hahaha, she read a lot of things that said, "BAPTIZE THE SU FAMILY" and random quotes about desires and things that apply to Joyce. She is so close, but it might just be her husband who is struggling now. It didn't seem like that before, but he is just about as invested in their church as she is. He's not nearly as devout in his faith, he just likes the atmosphere. It’s not boring and their church is big. They have 100 youth teachers, and Joyce is the president. It sounds kind of abominable to me, haha. We need to find a chance where we can meet with him so we can help him understand the truth.
Well I have to go, I LOVE YOU
Heavenly Father is blessing our district right now. Our district has 6 missionaries. I had a chance to go on an exchange with the elder whose testimony isn't quite there yet. He came onto the island with me, but I didn't know that he's been having problems. My companion is district leader and he said to me, "Do what you can to get his faith back up, show him how to have fun as a missionary.” Heavenly Father gave me a lot of opportunities to bear testimony to him, without me having to focus it right on him.
He's having a lot of questions about the church lately and just not had the faith or desire to progress as a missionary. But when he came into my area for exchanges, it was a true blessing, because I got to bear testimony and talk ALL about the SU family and discuss all of their problems with him. I talked about how true our church is in every possible aspect, all the way from the Book of Mormon and perfect doctrine, including the "17 steps to a true church,” a Harvard study. I talked about how our church has the power of the Holy Ghost as a witness of truth. Our church is unbeatable, hahaha, (maybe cause Christ is at the head of it). It was great. I explained everything that I've ever really wanted to share with the Su family, with him. So basically, I had the opportunity to teach him that this church is true in 100 different ways.
I shared with him my studies for the Su family. I talked about everything: why we have prophets, revelation, authority...everything. It was all directed toward the Su family, but he got to listen to me as I talked about them, hahaha, so I think I got to help him a little. He's been improving a lot lately, and the miracles that our district has been seeing lately, I think have added to his faith.
We saw a couple miracles when we went out tracting together. I would always tell him, "Elder H, it’s because or your faith,” or, “You’re such a good man Elder H." Heavenly Father has been giving him a lot of opportunities to gain a testimony, so yeah, our district is doing well.....
I love my companion. He is so, so funny and he has an awesome testimony of "the truth". Truth is truth, and it’s in the message we are sharing. Oh man, he is so awesome and I will miss him. Heavenly Father has given me the opportunity to have some AWESOME companions. Elder Tuveson is such a humble man. We read the Book of Mormon together in Chinese every night. We help each other through it, because it’s hard. I love it though. He is such a funny guy, and he loves bowling! We went last week with our district and he was terrible at it, but he loved every minute of it. I love my companion.
I cannot even begin to tell you how much a mission changes people. Holy smokes. The last lesson we shared with Joyce was about Mothers, since we were reading about the armies of Helaman. I bore testimony about mothers to Joyce and the influence they have on us growing up. Dads, too. I took so much for granted before my mission. Holy smokes, I'm sorry. I just want to thank you for preparing me to serve this mission. I know you didn't doubt it. Heavenly Father delivers those who have faith. My parents have faith.
Joyce is so close to being baptized. She found out how much I love her family for real, because I left my mission planner at her house on accident and she read it. She didn't tell us that she did, but it’s kind of obvious. Anyway, hahaha, she read a lot of things that said, "BAPTIZE THE SU FAMILY" and random quotes about desires and things that apply to Joyce. She is so close, but it might just be her husband who is struggling now. It didn't seem like that before, but he is just about as invested in their church as she is. He's not nearly as devout in his faith, he just likes the atmosphere. It’s not boring and their church is big. They have 100 youth teachers, and Joyce is the president. It sounds kind of abominable to me, haha. We need to find a chance where we can meet with him so we can help him understand the truth.
Well I have to go, I LOVE YOU
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Do all Americans look alike?!
I'm going to teach you a Chinese word so that I can use it to help capture the understanding of things that are going on around here and how it sounds like things are going on at home. The word is "xin ku" which means..... hard working/ tough luck/or time of trial (kinda). Anyway, that should get the point across. Life sounds (xin ku) for you at home with everyone moving around and huge changes going on. It’s good though, the Lord likes to give us lots of trials before He really pours out the blessings.
HOLY SMOKES! Henry is such a stud. (nephew Henry is nine months old). Here in Taiwan we would say “shuaige”, which means stud, or handsome boy!!! Everyone calls each other handsome over here. It’s awesome, every time I come to a red light as I'm riding my bike, I say to the man I pull up next to, "Shuaige" and then he says, "No, you’re the shuaige". Then I say, "you’re the most shuai."
With the older men that I pull next to, we'll have that whole conversation in Taiwanese. I've learned how to say some things in Taiwanese, like, "where are you going?" "How is your day?" "My mind is broken", etc. The older people really like it when we speak Taiwanese to them, hahaha. It’s a good way to scatter sunshine, which is key here in Taiwan, because of all the people who are opposed to Christianity. I love it.
Hahaha, there are so many awesome people here. A lot of the older people are kinda crazy. It’s so funny. Some of them are really crazy, literally. There is a guy that somehow always finds us as we're teaching people on the street. His name is Lucky and he walks around wearing a hard hat, carrying a rolly basket. He is such a happy man. He always tells us to come to his daughter’s haircutting den where it is only 100$, which in American currency is about $3.33.
What I don't understand is "why is all of the crazy people’s English better than the not-crazy-people’s English", hahaha. Oh well. It’s kinda funny, because these people just roam around the streets all day. They all love missionaries because we are always nice to them. Every missionary in the Taibei mission knows about Lucky and another guy we call Banqiao boy. Every missionary has the opportunity to run into these people on the street. I don't know how, there are 23 million people in Taiwan, but "Lucky" and "Banqiao boy" are always in the same places we are. I don't know how they do it. Anyway, I'm trying to make this letter more about the culture.
The fruit in Taiwan is AMAZING! Wow! That’s pretty much all we eat...and rice. It’s really interesting to hear about people’s beliefs in God here. Some people think the purpose of this life is to be good, and judging by how good we are in this life, tells us what type of animal we will be in the next life. The animals are rated on a scale of good to bad, I guess. This older man on the street, told me in the life before this, I was a shrimp! I don't know the theory he had behind this, but he was certain that I was a shrimp and that he was a beaver. (I think it was beaver. I'm not sure how to say “before” in Chinese). I just guessed beaver by the actions he was making to help me understand what kind of animal he was talking about.
Man, there are so many crazy philosophies and traditions over here, but what I've realized is, I grew up in a completely different place and culture. Here, they think Christianity is kinda weird. The sisters who are native in our district say that the Americans all look alike... which I don't get that at all, hahaha. At least have different colors of hair and eyes. At church the other day, a 12- year-old girl asked me, “Why do Americans have black spots in the middle of their eyes???” ( You mean our pupils? I'm pretty sure you have those too, little girl). Holy smokes I love the people here
Things are progressing, the language is still coming. I can read a lot of the Book of Mormon in Chinese now, but it’s still really, really hard, and I can't quite get the meaning out of it sometimes. I'm getting a foundation of characters from flash cards, then I'll continue to read. It takes along time to look up a character you don't know in the dictionary.
Now, the Su family. This past week we have been very bold with Joyce. I bore testimony with all my heart and it brought her to tears. She tried to give me a hug, it was kinda weird. Anyway, she just isn't letting the spirit into her heart. We asked her some questions and she just becomes quiet. She doesn't know how to answer. I just don't think she is willing to give up her church. We went over there for a family night and she had her whole family put on the shirts they got from their church’s summer camp. (They had been away, which was the reason we hadn't visited her for a while). She isn't hearkening to the two missionaries who are bringing her a message of truth. I told her that the next time we stop by, I’m going to ask her if she knows that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. We're at an impasse right now, she isn't progressing, we've taught her everything. The spirit told us to be bold and to share the Joseph Smith history with her, where it says .... “the Presbyterian church is not true.” We have to determine whether it's worth our time to go over there or not. It’s hard, I love that family, but she needs the desire first. We might have to end our visits to the Su family house. That’s hard, but the Lord will provide a way......
My time is gone, love you, Elder Daniels
HOLY SMOKES! Henry is such a stud. (nephew Henry is nine months old). Here in Taiwan we would say “shuaige”, which means stud, or handsome boy!!! Everyone calls each other handsome over here. It’s awesome, every time I come to a red light as I'm riding my bike, I say to the man I pull up next to, "Shuaige" and then he says, "No, you’re the shuaige". Then I say, "you’re the most shuai."
With the older men that I pull next to, we'll have that whole conversation in Taiwanese. I've learned how to say some things in Taiwanese, like, "where are you going?" "How is your day?" "My mind is broken", etc. The older people really like it when we speak Taiwanese to them, hahaha. It’s a good way to scatter sunshine, which is key here in Taiwan, because of all the people who are opposed to Christianity. I love it.
Hahaha, there are so many awesome people here. A lot of the older people are kinda crazy. It’s so funny. Some of them are really crazy, literally. There is a guy that somehow always finds us as we're teaching people on the street. His name is Lucky and he walks around wearing a hard hat, carrying a rolly basket. He is such a happy man. He always tells us to come to his daughter’s haircutting den where it is only 100$, which in American currency is about $3.33.
What I don't understand is "why is all of the crazy people’s English better than the not-crazy-people’s English", hahaha. Oh well. It’s kinda funny, because these people just roam around the streets all day. They all love missionaries because we are always nice to them. Every missionary in the Taibei mission knows about Lucky and another guy we call Banqiao boy. Every missionary has the opportunity to run into these people on the street. I don't know how, there are 23 million people in Taiwan, but "Lucky" and "Banqiao boy" are always in the same places we are. I don't know how they do it. Anyway, I'm trying to make this letter more about the culture.
The fruit in Taiwan is AMAZING! Wow! That’s pretty much all we eat...and rice. It’s really interesting to hear about people’s beliefs in God here. Some people think the purpose of this life is to be good, and judging by how good we are in this life, tells us what type of animal we will be in the next life. The animals are rated on a scale of good to bad, I guess. This older man on the street, told me in the life before this, I was a shrimp! I don't know the theory he had behind this, but he was certain that I was a shrimp and that he was a beaver. (I think it was beaver. I'm not sure how to say “before” in Chinese). I just guessed beaver by the actions he was making to help me understand what kind of animal he was talking about.
Man, there are so many crazy philosophies and traditions over here, but what I've realized is, I grew up in a completely different place and culture. Here, they think Christianity is kinda weird. The sisters who are native in our district say that the Americans all look alike... which I don't get that at all, hahaha. At least have different colors of hair and eyes. At church the other day, a 12- year-old girl asked me, “Why do Americans have black spots in the middle of their eyes???” ( You mean our pupils? I'm pretty sure you have those too, little girl). Holy smokes I love the people here
Things are progressing, the language is still coming. I can read a lot of the Book of Mormon in Chinese now, but it’s still really, really hard, and I can't quite get the meaning out of it sometimes. I'm getting a foundation of characters from flash cards, then I'll continue to read. It takes along time to look up a character you don't know in the dictionary.
Now, the Su family. This past week we have been very bold with Joyce. I bore testimony with all my heart and it brought her to tears. She tried to give me a hug, it was kinda weird. Anyway, she just isn't letting the spirit into her heart. We asked her some questions and she just becomes quiet. She doesn't know how to answer. I just don't think she is willing to give up her church. We went over there for a family night and she had her whole family put on the shirts they got from their church’s summer camp. (They had been away, which was the reason we hadn't visited her for a while). She isn't hearkening to the two missionaries who are bringing her a message of truth. I told her that the next time we stop by, I’m going to ask her if she knows that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. We're at an impasse right now, she isn't progressing, we've taught her everything. The spirit told us to be bold and to share the Joseph Smith history with her, where it says .... “the Presbyterian church is not true.” We have to determine whether it's worth our time to go over there or not. It’s hard, I love that family, but she needs the desire first. We might have to end our visits to the Su family house. That’s hard, but the Lord will provide a way......
My time is gone, love you, Elder Daniels
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Life's experiences help missionary work
Man, how the time flies, good grief... I can't believe 1/4 of my mission is gone... Holy moly, that is scary to think about. We just had our monthly interviews with president and I was telling him how much I LOVE MISSIONARY WORK! If I could get married and have kids, I could be a missionary for the rest of my life.
A lot went on in my interview with president. I asked him for advice on the Su family, which recently has been difficult. Joyce started inviting us to her church’s activities. She believes we worship Joseph Smith and her desires aren't quite there. But president is awesome he gave me some good advice. He said I can tell her, “Joyce, if you want me to join your church, you can pay money, go to America and knock on my door, and I will let you in. I'll even give you my address, but right now I am here in Taiwan, sharing a message about truth that you aren’t willing to accept.” A lot more was said, but basically I learned many things in my interview, that I am truly a disciple and representative of Christ and how I can be bold.
Sometimes it’s hard to be bold because you are afraid of the reaction they will give you. These people we are meeting with are precious, so it’s sad to see someone you've grown so close to fall out of your hands. President showed me how I can be more bold as a missionary of the Lord.
Sometimes it’s hard with Joyce, though, because, as we bear testimony, she feels like we are trying to convince her and trick her or change her or something. It’s like bearing testimony to a rock, but I pray every night with all my heart, that Heavenly Father will open her heart. I know she'll be baptized, the question is, when?
President doesn't know if he's going to keep me in Sanchong or move me, because I've been there for a long time. He doesn't like to keep missionaries in the places they were “born” too long, but he doesn't want to bring two brand new missionaries into the area either, because of the Su family. They have become known around the whole mission now, so yeah, I don't know what will happen.
He talked a little bit about making me senior pretty soon because there are so many other missionaries “dying”. Oh man, I hope that doesn't happen. It would be really hard at this point in time. I just want to stay in Sanchong with the Su family forever as a junior companion, ha ha ha. I love this Su family. It’s hard to think about having to leave them, but it’s all in the Lord’s hands and what he wants to have happen.
I've been thinking about past experiences that I can share with Joyce, to help her start making a decision. I remember when I played receiver in football. I loved to play that position, but coach said he wanted me to play corner because it would be better for the team. I didn't want to play corner. I liked playing receiver, so when I played corner I played terrible, because I didn't put my heart into it. Coach put me back at receiver and took away a lot of my playing time. (I was humbled). I didn't like that, so went to the coach and said, “Coach, I love football. What can I do to get more playing time again?” He said, “I'll give you another opportunity at corner and we'll see what happens.” This time I had a different mind set and I played my hardest because I wanted to stay on the football field. When Coach saw my desire and hard work, he liked it and he let me start at both positions. Joyce needs to do this with her situation. She needs to make a decision to completely follow Christ and set her desires to completely follow what He tells her to do. This comparison relates, I promise, hahahaha.
I was just thinking of all the different experiences that Heavenly Father has given me, to prepare to use me to teach Joyce the restored gospel. Another one is my choice of sports. I always wanted to really exceed in basketball or football, but it turns out the sport I least wanted to do became my favorite. And, it is the one I excelled in, track! At first I didn't want to do it because "weird people run track” and they make you wear funny clothes. Then, when I saw a pretty girl running track and I had a couple friends doing it, I gave it an HONEST desire. I tried my best and I ended up succeeding, like running the 4x400 medley and taking 5A -All State! When we give an honest desire to try something, even though it may not be what you want to do, that honest desire will deliver you...even if you are the most devout Presbyterian in the world.
Holy moly, I've written a lot of random things. I hope some of it makes sense.
I saw a CRAZY accident the other day. We were walking out of church which is in a sky scraper, and right when we stepped outside, I saw someone’s body and a scooter collide into a marble wall, cracking the marble and breaking the man’s femur and arm. It was so crazy, but he was all right. The traffic is so wild here!!!!!!! I'm afraid to tell you how crazy sometimes because I don't want you to worry, Mom, hahaha, but I promise you that from now, on I'll be extra careful. I worry about some Taiwanese families here. They truly are the greatest drivers in the world, but MAN alive!!! I saw a scooter yesterday with 6 people on it: Twin baby boys, a mom, dad and two little girls. It’s insane. Taiwan is an amazing place. I LOVE MY MISSION!!!!!!!! The Church is 100% true. Love you!
A lot went on in my interview with president. I asked him for advice on the Su family, which recently has been difficult. Joyce started inviting us to her church’s activities. She believes we worship Joseph Smith and her desires aren't quite there. But president is awesome he gave me some good advice. He said I can tell her, “Joyce, if you want me to join your church, you can pay money, go to America and knock on my door, and I will let you in. I'll even give you my address, but right now I am here in Taiwan, sharing a message about truth that you aren’t willing to accept.” A lot more was said, but basically I learned many things in my interview, that I am truly a disciple and representative of Christ and how I can be bold.
Sometimes it’s hard to be bold because you are afraid of the reaction they will give you. These people we are meeting with are precious, so it’s sad to see someone you've grown so close to fall out of your hands. President showed me how I can be more bold as a missionary of the Lord.
Sometimes it’s hard with Joyce, though, because, as we bear testimony, she feels like we are trying to convince her and trick her or change her or something. It’s like bearing testimony to a rock, but I pray every night with all my heart, that Heavenly Father will open her heart. I know she'll be baptized, the question is, when?
President doesn't know if he's going to keep me in Sanchong or move me, because I've been there for a long time. He doesn't like to keep missionaries in the places they were “born” too long, but he doesn't want to bring two brand new missionaries into the area either, because of the Su family. They have become known around the whole mission now, so yeah, I don't know what will happen.
He talked a little bit about making me senior pretty soon because there are so many other missionaries “dying”. Oh man, I hope that doesn't happen. It would be really hard at this point in time. I just want to stay in Sanchong with the Su family forever as a junior companion, ha ha ha. I love this Su family. It’s hard to think about having to leave them, but it’s all in the Lord’s hands and what he wants to have happen.
I've been thinking about past experiences that I can share with Joyce, to help her start making a decision. I remember when I played receiver in football. I loved to play that position, but coach said he wanted me to play corner because it would be better for the team. I didn't want to play corner. I liked playing receiver, so when I played corner I played terrible, because I didn't put my heart into it. Coach put me back at receiver and took away a lot of my playing time. (I was humbled). I didn't like that, so went to the coach and said, “Coach, I love football. What can I do to get more playing time again?” He said, “I'll give you another opportunity at corner and we'll see what happens.” This time I had a different mind set and I played my hardest because I wanted to stay on the football field. When Coach saw my desire and hard work, he liked it and he let me start at both positions. Joyce needs to do this with her situation. She needs to make a decision to completely follow Christ and set her desires to completely follow what He tells her to do. This comparison relates, I promise, hahahaha.
I was just thinking of all the different experiences that Heavenly Father has given me, to prepare to use me to teach Joyce the restored gospel. Another one is my choice of sports. I always wanted to really exceed in basketball or football, but it turns out the sport I least wanted to do became my favorite. And, it is the one I excelled in, track! At first I didn't want to do it because "weird people run track” and they make you wear funny clothes. Then, when I saw a pretty girl running track and I had a couple friends doing it, I gave it an HONEST desire. I tried my best and I ended up succeeding, like running the 4x400 medley and taking 5A -All State! When we give an honest desire to try something, even though it may not be what you want to do, that honest desire will deliver you...even if you are the most devout Presbyterian in the world.
Holy moly, I've written a lot of random things. I hope some of it makes sense.
I saw a CRAZY accident the other day. We were walking out of church which is in a sky scraper, and right when we stepped outside, I saw someone’s body and a scooter collide into a marble wall, cracking the marble and breaking the man’s femur and arm. It was so crazy, but he was all right. The traffic is so wild here!!!!!!! I'm afraid to tell you how crazy sometimes because I don't want you to worry, Mom, hahaha, but I promise you that from now, on I'll be extra careful. I worry about some Taiwanese families here. They truly are the greatest drivers in the world, but MAN alive!!! I saw a scooter yesterday with 6 people on it: Twin baby boys, a mom, dad and two little girls. It’s insane. Taiwan is an amazing place. I LOVE MY MISSION!!!!!!!! The Church is 100% true. Love you!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Testimony of Jesus Christ
July 1, 2008
Hello family!
The work is moving along well. Elder Tuveson and I are getting a lot of setups on the streets every day and we've met some really great people, which is nice. We have a good opportunity to fill our pool with new investigators, because the Su family is out of town on vacation for two weeks.
Elder Tuveson is an AWESOME guy! He is so humble and he was put with the most prideful missionary in Taiwan, so I'm learning a lot from him, ha, ha. He is really funny, but quite shy when it comes to public speaking. He has a huge, huge, huge testimony of the Savior. That might be why he is so humble. He's a "born follower" so even though he is senior companion, he has me lead on bikes and in discussions and everything. He won't let me buy him drinks, and there is a piece of chocolate floating around our apartment because we both refuse to eat it! He's so funny.
The other day there was a young girl riding a scooter smoking a cigarette. I looked away because I don't look at girls between the ages 16-30. Then Elder Tuveson said, "Man, that girl is smokin".... hahaha. I didn't know what to say, so I said, “ELDER TUVESON! You can't say that!!!!” I looked over and she really was smoking, so I understood. It was kind of funny. A lot of people smoke here. They wear surgical masks to protect from the pollution, but then they’ll pop cigarettes in their mouths.
Joyce has been extremely tricky lately. Oh man, the last time we met with her, we brought two native sisters from our district who have both been converts to the Church and to Christianity for no more then 5 years. The lesson started out well. The sisters bore awesome testimony of the Book of Mormon, and Joyce sort of admitted to thinking that the Book of Mormon is the word of God!!!!! Then something triggered her and she wanted to know WHY do we focus so much on the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith and not on Christ? She asked, “Why do I get a different feeling when I read my bible and your Book of Mormon? Why do I get a different feeling when I go to your church and when I go to mine. Have you sisters even read the whole Bible? You can talk to me when you've read it all.”
I don't think Joyce remembers that our purpose as missionaries is to invite others to come unto Christ, not Joseph Smith. She's right though, missionaries do focus a lot on the Book of Mormon. Joyce has also asked us before, “Well, if we really all are Christians, then why does there have to be a true church?” When we explain, she feels like our focus falls off of Christ. Rather, she uses it as an excuse, she chooses to think that. She still has to find that desire to know the BOM is true before she finds her answer.
Oh man, haha, she is hard core right now, but Elder Tuveson and I aren't losing faith. I've gotten the opportunity to study this all out A LOT, and in short summary and in powerful words.... Christ is my Savior!!!! I've really come closer to Christ’s atonement as I've been studying for Joyce. The one problem we're really left open with right now is her desire to be alone forever. She truly doesn't want an eternal family, but Sister Nielson was able to help us know how to study for her through her talk at zone conference yesterday. She said, “I've recently had the opportunity to attend lessons with a mother who doesn't desire an eternal family.” She asked the missionaries what to do in that type of situation. Then she opened the scriptures and answered our question. The Holy Ghost will change her. Man, going into big meetings like that, like general conference for example, is so much better when you have questions prepared.
The Church is true. Church leaders answer individual problems for all of Heavenly Father’s children who prepare themselves to listen.
Yesterday’s zone conference was so powerful. I really felt the Spirit and better understood the power of the Atonement of Christ. I have always had a testimony of this church, but I never knew the power of the Bible.....the Book of Mormon..... and Christ’s atonement until I served a mission. Jesus Christ is my first and favorite testimony, that He lives.
Well, there is a truckload to write, but I gotta write the President’s letter. Love you all, ELDER DANIELS!!!! Goodbye!
Hello family!
The work is moving along well. Elder Tuveson and I are getting a lot of setups on the streets every day and we've met some really great people, which is nice. We have a good opportunity to fill our pool with new investigators, because the Su family is out of town on vacation for two weeks.
Elder Tuveson is an AWESOME guy! He is so humble and he was put with the most prideful missionary in Taiwan, so I'm learning a lot from him, ha, ha. He is really funny, but quite shy when it comes to public speaking. He has a huge, huge, huge testimony of the Savior. That might be why he is so humble. He's a "born follower" so even though he is senior companion, he has me lead on bikes and in discussions and everything. He won't let me buy him drinks, and there is a piece of chocolate floating around our apartment because we both refuse to eat it! He's so funny.
The other day there was a young girl riding a scooter smoking a cigarette. I looked away because I don't look at girls between the ages 16-30. Then Elder Tuveson said, "Man, that girl is smokin".... hahaha. I didn't know what to say, so I said, “ELDER TUVESON! You can't say that!!!!” I looked over and she really was smoking, so I understood. It was kind of funny. A lot of people smoke here. They wear surgical masks to protect from the pollution, but then they’ll pop cigarettes in their mouths.
Joyce has been extremely tricky lately. Oh man, the last time we met with her, we brought two native sisters from our district who have both been converts to the Church and to Christianity for no more then 5 years. The lesson started out well. The sisters bore awesome testimony of the Book of Mormon, and Joyce sort of admitted to thinking that the Book of Mormon is the word of God!!!!! Then something triggered her and she wanted to know WHY do we focus so much on the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith and not on Christ? She asked, “Why do I get a different feeling when I read my bible and your Book of Mormon? Why do I get a different feeling when I go to your church and when I go to mine. Have you sisters even read the whole Bible? You can talk to me when you've read it all.”
I don't think Joyce remembers that our purpose as missionaries is to invite others to come unto Christ, not Joseph Smith. She's right though, missionaries do focus a lot on the Book of Mormon. Joyce has also asked us before, “Well, if we really all are Christians, then why does there have to be a true church?” When we explain, she feels like our focus falls off of Christ. Rather, she uses it as an excuse, she chooses to think that. She still has to find that desire to know the BOM is true before she finds her answer.
Oh man, haha, she is hard core right now, but Elder Tuveson and I aren't losing faith. I've gotten the opportunity to study this all out A LOT, and in short summary and in powerful words.... Christ is my Savior!!!! I've really come closer to Christ’s atonement as I've been studying for Joyce. The one problem we're really left open with right now is her desire to be alone forever. She truly doesn't want an eternal family, but Sister Nielson was able to help us know how to study for her through her talk at zone conference yesterday. She said, “I've recently had the opportunity to attend lessons with a mother who doesn't desire an eternal family.” She asked the missionaries what to do in that type of situation. Then she opened the scriptures and answered our question. The Holy Ghost will change her. Man, going into big meetings like that, like general conference for example, is so much better when you have questions prepared.
The Church is true. Church leaders answer individual problems for all of Heavenly Father’s children who prepare themselves to listen.
Yesterday’s zone conference was so powerful. I really felt the Spirit and better understood the power of the Atonement of Christ. I have always had a testimony of this church, but I never knew the power of the Bible.....the Book of Mormon..... and Christ’s atonement until I served a mission. Jesus Christ is my first and favorite testimony, that He lives.
Well, there is a truckload to write, but I gotta write the President’s letter. Love you all, ELDER DANIELS!!!! Goodbye!
Sunday, June 22, 2008
New companion and "byebye sticks"...
Well, just to let you know, that every six weeks on Monday is transfer day and we will have our p-day on Monday. So, six weeks from now you can have a letter prepared for that day!
I said goodbye to Elder Barton. Oh man, I cannot even begin to tell you how grateful I am for Elder Barton. He is such an amazing elder, holy moly, with so much faith. He helped me out so much because he was a great friend who knew who to be stern when he needed to be. He has a gift for seeing people at their full potential, so he knows when to put pressure on. It can be really frustrating at times, but it’s because he cares so much that I reach my full potential, in my language, in my studies, in my faith... everything. He can do it with investigators, too. Elder Barton has such a special spirit with him, I'm thankful for him.
Before he left, we had an opportunity to focus a lot on Joyce. Joyce answered the question, “If you had the choice to be baptized right now, or NEVER, which would you choose?" It took her two days to decide, but when we brought President and his wife over to attend our lesson with Joyce, she answered, “I guess I would choose to be baptized.” Ha, ha, ha, that was huge!!!!! She still doesn't think she's ready to become a Mormon yet, but she's still progressing, oh so slowly.
Her whole family came to church yesterday for the 1st TIME!!!!!! Even the grandma came! She's such a cute lady. That night we went to Joyce's house to play games and say goodbye to "Cody", (Elder Barton. She insists on calling us by our first names.) We had so much fun. We sang, “God be with you to will meet again”, and as Joyce started saying the prayer, she started crying. She loves missionaries so much. She's so close, just still a little prideful, and scared, I think. The ward here in Sanchong is really good. They all know Joyce really well because we made prayer cards for their family.
My new companion is great and he will be good for Joyce because he is very humble and has a huge heart. His name is Elder Tuveson. He is short like Elder Barton, but extremely, extremely humble. He would never correct me on my Chinese because he is flat out TOO humble, so that will be a change. I'm going to learn so much from him. He's a lot different from Elder Barton, who would never stop talking about faith and charity and things that he recently learned. We'd always “pick” on each other and make jokes, it was so much fun. Elder Tuveson is a lot more quiet, but extremely obedient and dedicated and perfect for this Su family!!!! I'm so excited to get to work with him. I'm going to be “killing” two missionaries in a row though, because Elder Tuveson is also “dying” this next transfer. He is from Millard, Utah. He's 22 years old and awesome! It’s crazy though, because he just moved into my area, I will have to do most of the leading because he doesn't know anything about the area. It looks like I have to learn how to be responsible now, ha, ha. It’s going to be tricky finding our way around because I still can't read signs. They are in Chinese characters.
I am allowed to start studying characters now. Elder Barton says I'm ready. I passed off all the lessons in Preach My Gospel to him and I've got the tones and sounds of the language almost down now. Thanks to a trainer who made me memorize 42 scriptures! I was so prideful with Elder Barton. He says I was a good boy, but I was definitely prideful at times. He told me that I had to say 42 scriptures to him in a row without looking or help with perfect sounds and then I'd be ready to study characters. Man, I had so much doubt at first, but then I did it, and BAM, Elder Barton was right. I feel ready to start learning characters. Elder Barton helped me set some good goals. I'm going to start reading the Book of Mormon in Chinese now. IT’S SO SLOW! Then I'll move to the Ensign and then Jesus the Christ, in Chinese. It'll be tough.
Christian churches over here are completely different. The people don't understand that Christianity has different sects. There is Catholicism, Christianity and the Mormons. It’s kinda frustrating sometimes. They have the wrong concepts of God and the trinity and a lot of the people are confused about Christianity because of what the Catholics did when they first got here to Taiwan. They told the Taiwanese people how evil they were for worshiping false gods and how they can't worship their ancestors by waving “worship byebye sticks”. So the Taiwanese don’t have a good view of Christians but they're starting to find out that the Mormons are different. They see them as the best of the Christians because they have the best standards and are the nicest people. And, our church still allows them to wave “worship byebye sticks", as long as they aren't worshiping or bowing. (It’s interesting to share what we do for our ancestors in our church). Permission comes straight from the First Presidency for them to wave the “byebye sticks”. They said it is kind of like us putting flowers on our loved one’s graves in America. We do it to honor our ancestors, but it isn’t worship or bowing. This rule has helped overcome family opposition. The older parents don't like their kids to join Christianity because they need their kids to "worship Byebye" them.
The culture is completely different over here, but I'd have to say I’m getting used to it. Elder Barton said he is so afraid to go back to America and see mean white people again.
Well, I gotta go, I love you to death.... Elder Daniels
I said goodbye to Elder Barton. Oh man, I cannot even begin to tell you how grateful I am for Elder Barton. He is such an amazing elder, holy moly, with so much faith. He helped me out so much because he was a great friend who knew who to be stern when he needed to be. He has a gift for seeing people at their full potential, so he knows when to put pressure on. It can be really frustrating at times, but it’s because he cares so much that I reach my full potential, in my language, in my studies, in my faith... everything. He can do it with investigators, too. Elder Barton has such a special spirit with him, I'm thankful for him.
Before he left, we had an opportunity to focus a lot on Joyce. Joyce answered the question, “If you had the choice to be baptized right now, or NEVER, which would you choose?" It took her two days to decide, but when we brought President and his wife over to attend our lesson with Joyce, she answered, “I guess I would choose to be baptized.” Ha, ha, ha, that was huge!!!!! She still doesn't think she's ready to become a Mormon yet, but she's still progressing, oh so slowly.
Her whole family came to church yesterday for the 1st TIME!!!!!! Even the grandma came! She's such a cute lady. That night we went to Joyce's house to play games and say goodbye to "Cody", (Elder Barton. She insists on calling us by our first names.) We had so much fun. We sang, “God be with you to will meet again”, and as Joyce started saying the prayer, she started crying. She loves missionaries so much. She's so close, just still a little prideful, and scared, I think. The ward here in Sanchong is really good. They all know Joyce really well because we made prayer cards for their family.
My new companion is great and he will be good for Joyce because he is very humble and has a huge heart. His name is Elder Tuveson. He is short like Elder Barton, but extremely, extremely humble. He would never correct me on my Chinese because he is flat out TOO humble, so that will be a change. I'm going to learn so much from him. He's a lot different from Elder Barton, who would never stop talking about faith and charity and things that he recently learned. We'd always “pick” on each other and make jokes, it was so much fun. Elder Tuveson is a lot more quiet, but extremely obedient and dedicated and perfect for this Su family!!!! I'm so excited to get to work with him. I'm going to be “killing” two missionaries in a row though, because Elder Tuveson is also “dying” this next transfer. He is from Millard, Utah. He's 22 years old and awesome! It’s crazy though, because he just moved into my area, I will have to do most of the leading because he doesn't know anything about the area. It looks like I have to learn how to be responsible now, ha, ha. It’s going to be tricky finding our way around because I still can't read signs. They are in Chinese characters.
I am allowed to start studying characters now. Elder Barton says I'm ready. I passed off all the lessons in Preach My Gospel to him and I've got the tones and sounds of the language almost down now. Thanks to a trainer who made me memorize 42 scriptures! I was so prideful with Elder Barton. He says I was a good boy, but I was definitely prideful at times. He told me that I had to say 42 scriptures to him in a row without looking or help with perfect sounds and then I'd be ready to study characters. Man, I had so much doubt at first, but then I did it, and BAM, Elder Barton was right. I feel ready to start learning characters. Elder Barton helped me set some good goals. I'm going to start reading the Book of Mormon in Chinese now. IT’S SO SLOW! Then I'll move to the Ensign and then Jesus the Christ, in Chinese. It'll be tough.
Christian churches over here are completely different. The people don't understand that Christianity has different sects. There is Catholicism, Christianity and the Mormons. It’s kinda frustrating sometimes. They have the wrong concepts of God and the trinity and a lot of the people are confused about Christianity because of what the Catholics did when they first got here to Taiwan. They told the Taiwanese people how evil they were for worshiping false gods and how they can't worship their ancestors by waving “worship byebye sticks”. So the Taiwanese don’t have a good view of Christians but they're starting to find out that the Mormons are different. They see them as the best of the Christians because they have the best standards and are the nicest people. And, our church still allows them to wave “worship byebye sticks", as long as they aren't worshiping or bowing. (It’s interesting to share what we do for our ancestors in our church). Permission comes straight from the First Presidency for them to wave the “byebye sticks”. They said it is kind of like us putting flowers on our loved one’s graves in America. We do it to honor our ancestors, but it isn’t worship or bowing. This rule has helped overcome family opposition. The older parents don't like their kids to join Christianity because they need their kids to "worship Byebye" them.
The culture is completely different over here, but I'd have to say I’m getting used to it. Elder Barton said he is so afraid to go back to America and see mean white people again.
Well, I gotta go, I love you to death.... Elder Daniels
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Are there any missionaries here with an "elect" family to teach?
Man, oh, man, things are going great. Brother Lean was baptized and confirmed. We let members in the ward do it because it’s a good opportunity for them. The Church is so, so, so new here in Taiwan. There is nobody in our ward who was born in the Church who over the age of 19. Everyone in Taiwan seems to be 1st generation converts. The church is growing SO FAST here. It is still in its pioneer stages. Elder Rasband of the Seventy came and did a fireside here in Taipei. It was awesome, because Joyce (Sister Wang, who wants to be called by her given name) was able to come and she brought her whole family. The really cool thing is, the morning before the fireside, we had a mission conference and Elder Rasband led it. He asked, “Are there any missionaries out there right now who feel like they have an ‘Elect’ family?” Elder Barton stood right up, and Elder Rasband centered his talk around them. So we were given a lot of insight from a member of the seventy on how to help our investigator. It was great.
Later that night, we had the feeling we needed to invite Joyce to come and bring her family to hear Elder Rasband speak to the members of Taiwan. As soon as we found out that Joyce could attend, we called President and said, "she's coming and she's bringing the kids!" Ha. President told Elder Rasband, and the coolest thing happened. That night when we were sitting there with this family, Elder Rasband stood up to speak and said, "I feel like there is reason for me to change what I was planning on talking about tonight...." Then, he spoke and his entire talk was directed towards Joyce's biggest problems with the Church, such as, why our church is different from other Christian churches, etc. Ha, ha. Elder Barton and I just looked at each other and smiled.
After the meeting, we took Joyce and her family up to meet Elder Rasband and his wife who gave them hugs. Elder Rasband said into Joyce’s ear, "I hope you will join this Church." It was insane! Joyce really liked it and she especially liked Sister Rasband, because she focused her talk on how much she LOVES missionaries. Joyce also loves missionaries and actually wants all her kids to serve missions. She just can't get over the fact that her baptism doesn't count and that her church is wrong, but she's improving.
Today we went to her house, taking the other elders in our district. We made breakfast for her kids and had morning studies with Joyce. It went really well, but Joyce is still sitting on the fence. We told her that sometime she will have to make a decision, and she said that she needs time. We asked her, well what are you going to do with that time? She's just sitting on the fence, she's got one foot in and one foot out. One cool thing actually came up in our studies was about sign seekers. They will get their signs but not unto salvation (something like that). It is D&C 63:7. It’s interesting though. We show faith when we make decisions, and it’s that faith that will help us make it unto salvation. Yeah, anyway, she'll be baptized, I know it.
This work is difficult, but who said salvation was easy? We're being seen every day!!! The seed is planted her in Taiwan and it’s about to explode!!!! It's already started.....
I'm going to miss Elder Barton. Man, it’s hard. He's such a good guy and he puts up with me. Ha, ha, I was such a prideful trainee, but he has always been so patient. He's really the only person I know here in Taiwan and he's an awesome friend. He doesn't want to go home at all. The only reason he is going home is because his family misses him, he always says. I have learned so much from this elder. He helped me build a strong foundation for my mission. Heavenly Father looks out for us. He answers our prayers.....
Well, I'm sorry if this wasn't this most interesting letter, but these are the things that are on my mind. Thanks so much for the awesome pictures, keep them coming. If you get a chance, send some pictures of the family so I can share them with our investigators.
Oh man, the church is so true....... STRIKE for Zion!!!!!!!
I love you SO MUCH. If I've learned anything on my mission, it’s about how much a mother and father means to us growing up. HAPPY FATHER’S DAY DAD!!!!!!!
Later that night, we had the feeling we needed to invite Joyce to come and bring her family to hear Elder Rasband speak to the members of Taiwan. As soon as we found out that Joyce could attend, we called President and said, "she's coming and she's bringing the kids!" Ha. President told Elder Rasband, and the coolest thing happened. That night when we were sitting there with this family, Elder Rasband stood up to speak and said, "I feel like there is reason for me to change what I was planning on talking about tonight...." Then, he spoke and his entire talk was directed towards Joyce's biggest problems with the Church, such as, why our church is different from other Christian churches, etc. Ha, ha. Elder Barton and I just looked at each other and smiled.
After the meeting, we took Joyce and her family up to meet Elder Rasband and his wife who gave them hugs. Elder Rasband said into Joyce’s ear, "I hope you will join this Church." It was insane! Joyce really liked it and she especially liked Sister Rasband, because she focused her talk on how much she LOVES missionaries. Joyce also loves missionaries and actually wants all her kids to serve missions. She just can't get over the fact that her baptism doesn't count and that her church is wrong, but she's improving.
Today we went to her house, taking the other elders in our district. We made breakfast for her kids and had morning studies with Joyce. It went really well, but Joyce is still sitting on the fence. We told her that sometime she will have to make a decision, and she said that she needs time. We asked her, well what are you going to do with that time? She's just sitting on the fence, she's got one foot in and one foot out. One cool thing actually came up in our studies was about sign seekers. They will get their signs but not unto salvation (something like that). It is D&C 63:7. It’s interesting though. We show faith when we make decisions, and it’s that faith that will help us make it unto salvation. Yeah, anyway, she'll be baptized, I know it.
This work is difficult, but who said salvation was easy? We're being seen every day!!! The seed is planted her in Taiwan and it’s about to explode!!!! It's already started.....
I'm going to miss Elder Barton. Man, it’s hard. He's such a good guy and he puts up with me. Ha, ha, I was such a prideful trainee, but he has always been so patient. He's really the only person I know here in Taiwan and he's an awesome friend. He doesn't want to go home at all. The only reason he is going home is because his family misses him, he always says. I have learned so much from this elder. He helped me build a strong foundation for my mission. Heavenly Father looks out for us. He answers our prayers.....
Well, I'm sorry if this wasn't this most interesting letter, but these are the things that are on my mind. Thanks so much for the awesome pictures, keep them coming. If you get a chance, send some pictures of the family so I can share them with our investigators.
Oh man, the church is so true....... STRIKE for Zion!!!!!!!
I love you SO MUCH. If I've learned anything on my mission, it’s about how much a mother and father means to us growing up. HAPPY FATHER’S DAY DAD!!!!!!!
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