Om nom nom. -- 13 November 2012

Well, my 12 weeks are up. Training is over. I'm going South. That's all I know.

I'm not sure how I feel about that. I've decided I really love Calgary South Zone, but I know the Lord will have me where He needs me, because I will go where He wants me to go.

This morning I was studying the importance of prayer. It's something I haven't been as good at as I should have been. I mean, I pray, it's just been tough to make them personal. Anyway, I've searched and will one day have to share with you what I've found. In the meantime, just check out this: http://www.lds.org/scriptures/bd/prayer?lang=eng&letter=p

Elder C. and I have been getting along great! I found someone who loves LOTR more than me! (never saw that one coming) He's a great Daddy.

Oh, last week I messed up my left thumb on p-day. We went to the doctor (why on earth have I been messed up so much?) and Dr. Low says I tore something in my thumb and that I can't play sports for 4-6 weeks. >= | ask me how I feel about that. Gar.

We've been teaching the B's a lot and they've been progressing nicely. Brother B. set his own date and she's well on her way. They have a little girl named C. (9) who has a crush on Elder C. (hilarious).

M's are out of town.

S's are very close... unfortunately, I'm not going to teach them again, so there will be a lot of prayers on their behalf.

We've dropped 4 investigators this week.  It's kind of sad, but we believe that they'll make it someday.

It hit -17 C on Sunday. It was Cold. Really really cold.

Speaking of cold, my brain is just kinda *kaput* today. I don't know what to say. When in doubt, bear your testimony.

I have been very blessed by the Lord over the course of the past 3 and a half months. I know that He knows who I am. I know that by revelation I have been selected as a personal representative of the Lord Jesus Christ. He is my Master. He has chosen me to represent Him, "to stand in his place, to say and do what He Himself would say and do if He personally were ministering to the very people to whom He has sent me." I know that I am a Son of God and that through Him all things are possible. I love my Father. I know that Jesus Christ is my Savior and my Redeemer. I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is true. I know that Joseph Smith is a prophet of God who restored the original gospel and church back to the earth. I know that Thomas S. Monson is the prophet today and that he receives divine revelation on our behalf on a daily basis.

I love you all. Have a wonderful week. I still need pictures from all of you! I love you I love you I love you!

No Subject in Particular -- 5 November 2012

I think I love my mission. Maybe a little. Maybe a lot.

When you're on a mission, you get to experience a lot of things that testify that God loves His children.

Basically, we went by a couple of investigators who have really been struggling.  Background, they have been investigating the church off and on since 2004, have dropped their baptism dates 4 or 5 times the day before they have happened. Their names are almost a swear word at church--kinda like "Landon" used to be in my home. We mention their names in Ward Council and people roll their eyes and sigh, like, "We're really going to play this game again? Really? Why? They're not worth it."   Everyone is so tired of waiting for them, so they're ready to leave them behind.

What I want to share today is that Jesus Christ has a "No Man Left Behind" policy:

We knocked on their door inquiring as to why they hadn't been at church, and they kindly invited us into their home, and then asked that we would please share a message with them. We agreed, and talked about the Holy Ghost.  We asked them both a lot of questions about what had been going on, and why did they still let missionaries into their home? "Because when you come," Mike began, "our lives get better. That's what we want."

Elder Church :"Do you believe this church is true?"

Mike :"Yes, and I've set a date for myself to be baptized."

Stunned silence.

Mike's wife, Noelle: "What?"

Mike: "I know this is true. I want it. I need it. I'm sick of failing. I'm sick of not making it. I want to be happy. I know this is true, even if that means being baptized alone. I will be baptized, and I'm giving you two," motioning to the Elders, "permission to use the stick to get me there. Every day."

Challenge accepted.

Since that time, they have both stopped smoking, drinking coffee, and are even giving up TV (because they feel it's too big of a distraction). In the back of my mind, I understand that this may just be another "almost there" thing, but for heaven's sake, what is life with out hope? What is faith without hope? How will miracles happen without hope? If you don't believe that Jesus Christ can and will pick up the pieces of a broken life then how can He? 

Something that was once said while I was in the MTC is: "Don't ever be the Eeyore of missionary work." I want to extend that invitation to encompass everything. "Don't ever be the Eeyore of life." Don't allow yourself to lose hope. Don't ever think that God doesn't know you. Don't ever lose sight of the possibility that Jesus Christ can and will pick up the pieces, so long as you will only invite Him in to do so.  

The Lord has the power to do all things. Don't ever get so caught up in the negative that you lose sight of the possibility of what is so beautifully stated in Revelations 21:4

 " 4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more ^adeath, neither ^bsorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more ^cpain: for the former things are passed away."

http://www.lds.org/media-library/video/mormon-messages?lang=eng&id=2009-09-36-the-power-of-hope#2009-09-36-the-power-of-hope

http://www.lds.org/media-library/video/mormon-messages?lang=eng&id=2009-09-34-finding-hope#2009-09-34-finding-hope

See what I'm saying?  Please don't forget Him. Please don't ever fall into the trap of believing that He's forgotten you.

I'm done.

Anyway, other than that, this week I was frustrated because our numbers have been rediculously down recently. So I woke up early and I made a chart so we can keep track of everything we need to do every day so we can reach our goals, which basically means nightly planning now takes 5 minutes and we overshot almost all of our goals this week. So, we set them higher and are going to keep rolling. The chart is affectionately known as the "Churchhill Chart."

If there is anything at all that I have learned thus far, it is that setting goals and keeping track of them will improve performance more quickly than anything else. The other thing I've tried to learn ("tried" being the operative word) is that serving others is the catalyst that causes exponential growth. I'm still no good at it, but I'm trying to forget myself. It's not always just that easy, but it should be, eh?

Elder Church pulled a giant (about 3 feet tall) "My Little Pony" stuffed pony out of the dumpster a few days ago. He named it "Carl" and it is so terrifying. Bright neon orange. Yuck.

Mike and Mary Schmidtz came to church and have been reading and praying daily.

The Messengers.... Elder Church is scared of going over, but I really REALLY feel we need to. Heavens.

Halloween.... woo. We were at the Chapel with the rest of the missionaries by 5 (to protect us... I guess) and I'm pretty sure I popped my left thumb out of its socket, it just doesn't feel broken, but I can't bend it all the way. Super frustrating.

The mission has a car accident every 3 or 4 days because nobody knows how to drive in snow. I think they need a driving course, because two Malibus had their suspension blown out completely this week. Oh! Two weeks ago, Elder Church and I awoke to a huge *BOOM*. We looked out our bedroom window and approximately 30 feet away was the remnants of a car that had lost control while speeding, hit the curb, and rolled at least a few times, hit a tree, broke the tree in half (not a small tree) then had hit another tree, where it had finally stopped. The tree was obliterated (how's that for a good word?). The car was toast. We called 911 and within moments (probably took less than 2 minutes) emergecy vehicles were outside. We were up all night. Kinda cool, still sucks, but hey.

Well, gotta jet. I love you all. Have a good week. Sorry for not being good at writing letters. Or emails for that matter.

This Week I Actually Considered What I Would Say -- 29 October 2012

Okay, let's start with Saturday... Nah, Monday.

Once Upon a Time -  being monday while I was reading my Email, I ran accross a certain letter that dealt with very spcific and special interest. Elder M. Russell Ballard would be coming to our mission and giving us a special training on Saturday (you can already see how all of this relates...). We were told to keep it quiet until he was actually out of Calgary, because we don't want the entire Mormon world following the prophets.... you know what I mean. My first thought was probably along the lines of "WHITCHICKABAM," but you could also say, "Wow, this will be a very special and sacred experience." Anyway

Following said Magnificient news the rest of the week seemed to sail by. We have taught a lot of members this week, we picked up a new investigator and dropped an old one. We received terrible news regarding an investigator on date for baptism ( I don't wan to talk about it...). I went on splits with the Spanish missionaries (I would like to proudly proclaim that I can actually catch most of what they say.I still had to bear my testimony in English, but I was on topic and was even able to share a scripture from the spanish BOM... yeah... I was feeling pretty good about that, it's pretty great what God does for missionaries, eh?) We taught the Beeza's again, and they are just sailing through the lessons, I don't think anyone really understands how ready they are for the fullness of the gospel. Some day.... grr.

Oh! I bumped into a friend of Momma Plouzek's serving here in the mission (shocking!). I love Momma Plouzek... It's a shame I don't have her address (help?!).

All of that bringing us to Saturday. We were told that we were not allowed to leave our apartments any later than 9:15. We had a few Elders staying in our apartment (because it's pretty spacious) and they carpooled with us to the Chapel. We got there and learned that their (Elder Ballard's and the seventies [Craig C. Christensen and .... Elder Walker whose first name I can't quite remember...]) (I just realized I do this :"..." a lot. Sorry.) flight had arrived early, and it's a good thing we had left at 9:15 because if we had been late, it wouldn't have been good.

So, we were all nervous that we were about to be rebuked by an apostle of the Lord, but as he entered the room there was a definite spirit of peace that filled the hearts of almost 200 missionaries. He joked with us for a few minutes, and taught us about how to be more effective missionaries. He taught us about what it meant to be a representative of Jesus Christ and---not surprisingly---he answered all of my concerns and questions that I had brought with me before he even opened it up for open discussion. At which point, he taught us about keeping the faith, the importance of "greenie fire" and how to renew our faith that the Lord would provide for us (even when there is a lot of snow).

It was sweet, maybe when I get home you can read my notes, because it was a gift from God. Speaking of which, journal writing at night helps you sleep better. True story. I discovered this through personal experience.

So, on top of all of that, the dedication for the Calgary Temple was yesterday. It started 30 minutes late because (this is a direct quote) Salt Lake told us, "President will start when He's ready to start." Hahahahahahaha the Elders just about died in their chairs of laughter as we heard the attitude from our stake president. What a man. Anyway; we watched the gongshow of sealing the cornerstone (President Monson was just telling joke after joke after joke, he talked about being slapped by an old woman and made the sound effect, he invited dozens of children to participate he fooled around with Elder Ballard) and then listened to the simple loving doctrine that the temple presidency had to share, along with the words of Elder Ballard (again) and President Monson. (President Monson talked about speaking at hundreds of funerals, and the power of temple work, it was amazing)

It was a beautiful experience marred only by the fact that we were not able to leave between sessions to get food or water... for complex reasons.  So, we were fasting without expecting it, which left every 19, 20, &21 year old a little grumpy.... a lot grumpy. My companion (who has IBS) was particularly frustrated by the news, so by 7 PM when we were able to eat he had basically given up on life. It was a mess as he ranted and raved about how nothing ever goes his way. I sat quietly and listened, pretending to be concerned by his outburst of pent up frustration and kept my mouth completely shut, patiently waiting for the food to come. Fortuantely, the way to a man's heart is through his stomach, so, when we ate, he was much happier, but said, "I've thrown my spirituality out the window for the night, I'm done." So, I talked him out to the car, and we made some stop-bys for the last hour of the day, just following the plans we had made the night before. It was a sweet experience as I watched him really kick it into gear at our last stop by. We got home a little late because we had an unexpected lesson (total gift) and he thanked me for taking the lead and being patient. Which brings me to point number one for the day: Patience will get you so much further than being quick to anger. You will experience the gospel in greater abundance and you will come to see greater blessings from the Lord as you roll with it. :D That's what I learned yesterday. Just be patient.

This is where it gets good, thank you for reading this far.

Also, I heard two really sweet thoughts: 1. President Monson once (apparently) said: "95% of happiness in life will be based on 3 decisions: Who you marry, When you marry, & Where you marry." I just wanted to send out a shout to my parents who did it right. They married the person the Lord told them to, who they also loved (don't forget that love conquers all). They married after my dad's mission in the amount of time which was decided (by God... I think, I don't know that part of the story). They married in the Temple. Eternally. Boom. My parents are amazing and I love them.

2. At the temple open house, the patrons had an opportunity to fill out a comment card. One of the cards was filled out by a six year old boy who said the following: "When I was in that white room, I felt like I loved something." This is probably, maybe, most likely... definitely the sweetest mercy I've ever included in any letter I will probably ever write.. I challenge you to read that strikingly divine statement again and consider the following: The Lord gave us two great commandments; "Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart might mind and strength, and the second is like unto it; love thy neighbor as thyself." You know, I'll let you work this one out on your own, I'll just list a few more scriptures. "16 And he said unto me: Knowest thou the ^acondescension of God? 17 And I said unto him: I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things."

"When I was in that white room, I felt like I loved something."

I'll just end it here with my testimony. For the past few months, I have been blessed to represent Jesus Christ and enjoy the blessings of the "white room" in one of the---if not the most focused way imaginable. While I have been here, I have, like that boy, felt always like "I loved something." Someone. I know Jesus Christ loves all men. I know that God, our Father, loves his Children, and that we are capable of doing the infinately unimaginable: loving "something" more than we love ourselves. I love this Gospel. I love My God. I love my Savior. I love my Family. I love the special gift of this life. I love the people of Canada. I love President Monson. I love my mission. I pray that someday I will be worthy of the simple, sweet love which has been shown me throughout my entire life. I know that my Redeemer lives. I promise that as you make the temple the ultimate priority in your life, you will always feel like you love something. You will be blessed with a special something. A special someone. A special Faith. A special Life.

I love you all so much. Thank you for your support, your love, and your examples. Have a wonderful week.

Love,

Elder Taylor J. Hill

p.s. maybe someday I'll be grown up enough to just be able to see it all that sweet. I love you.

I Really Ought to Start Considering What I Will Say Before I Sit Down -- 22 October 2012

Hello all,

Well... I'll start with something hilarious that happened. As you know by now.... hopefully... the Spanish missionaries live in the same apartment building as we do. This has made for some good times and a few great moments. One of these great moments occurred at the beginning of the week when Elder Holderness (Spanish missionary) snuck up to passenger window where Elder Church was seated. We had been recording clicks (kilometers), and Elder Church didn't notice the Elder right next to his window, giving him a terrifying look. Laying hold upon my opportunity to get a good laugh out of it, I twisted my face and pointed out the window. Elder Church looked up, looked at my face, my finger, and then out the window. With a girlish scream he jumped, hit his head on the roof of the car, and punched the glass in an effort to slam his would-be-attacker.

Elder Holderness and I just about died of laughter.

Later in the week, we stopped at the church to make copies, but first we used the washroom. As Elder Church went to exit, there was Elder Holderness, and with another girlish scream he jumped, and swung... CRACK. He popped Elder Holderness right on the kisser with all of his might. Elder Holdernesses lip was instantly swollen and bleeding. Hilarious! I can just picture my mother saying, "It serves him right!"

Anyway, following the Fiasco of the Fat Lip, we had interviews with our mission president, President Nicholas. He's an amazing man. Before we went in, he had us fill out a survey which was meant to help us check our own progress.... I filled it out as honestly as I could (and in true Taylor fashion was maybe a little too hard on myself). We went over my numbers and, President Nicholas, having the gift of discernment, decided quickly that I was too hard on myself..... I was a little frustrated, but he gave me some advice that has really helped.  I get a little teased because of my "greenie-fire" and desire to give nothing but my best. I don't really see a problem with it. I guess everone is just concerned that those who push themselves too hard and expect a lot out of themselves, are often disappointed. No worries, I expect some hard times, but I also expect to be better than average. I don't want to settle for any less than my best, because I really REALLY love what I am doing and would regret it for the rest of my life if I didn't. So, there will be some change in my attitude and certainly in my numbers, but I won't stop working hard and pushing myself.

We had a very nice  lesson with Mike and Mary the other day. It wasn't a "thrown down" in classic "Taylor" fashion, but spiritually, we needed to make sure the spirit testified to them more strongly than it ever had before, because we needed them to start progressing, or we needed to drop them (I really loathe the idea of dropping them.... Mike is sooooooo ready. We just need to get Mary on board.....). So, we prepared a lesson with a single purpose: to testify to them without any room for doubt or defiance that The Book of Mormon was the word of God. So, how was this accomplished? Elder Holland, of course. When in doubt, call the general authorities. Check this oot: http://www.lds.org/media-library/video/mormon-messages?lang=eng&id=2010-03-08-testimony-of-the-book-of-mormon#2010-03-08-testimony-of-the-book-of-mormon

Then, we turn to the Book. Alma 32. Boom.

Then, we testify.

And, it completely changed their perspecitve. As a result, they told us they want to be baptized. We told them to pray about a date and gave them specific reading assignments. (Alma 32 and Moroni 7... we might call and also give them 2 Nephi 31 [by the by, you should familiarize yourself with each of those chapters]). I hope that as our coming appointments appraoch that they will have submitted themselves to the will of God. They need it more than they know.... Whew..... Good stuff.

I love you all very much. Alma 32:26 Now, as I said concerning faith—that it was not a perfect knowledge—even so it is with my words. Ye cannot know of their surety at first, unto perfection, any more than faith is a perfect knowledge.

Before I finish that thought, look here : http://www.lds.org/media-library/video/mormon-messages?lang=eng&id=2012-01-003-waiting-on-our-road-to-damascus#2012-01-003-waiting-on-our-road-to-damascus

Okay: Faith is not a perfect knowledge, because without faith, our belief is almost purposeless. As we continue to study Alma 32 it explains that as you exercise faith in one thing....: 34 And now, behold, is your ^aknowledge ^bperfect? Yea, your knowledge is perfect in that thing, and your ^cfaith is dormant; and this because you know, for ye know that the word hath swelled your souls, and ye also know that it hath sprouted up, that your understanding doth begin to be enlightened, and your ^dmind doth begin to expand.

Obtaining a KNOWLEDGE of specific aspects of the Gospel is ESSENTIAL. We must always be working to exercise our faith in the Lord so that we can come to a knowledge of His existence, so that we can reach the point when our faith is strong enough to withstand the "scorching of the sun." But we must never forget that faith is an ACTION, "faith, if it is without works, is dead." What is the point of having faith if we don't use it? "Faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye ^bhope for things which are ^cnot seen, which are true."  "Now ^afaith is the ^bsubstance of things ^choped for, the ^devidence of things not seen." Faith is the guiding light that leads you to hope in all good things, which drives you into meekness and into humility (check out the first definition to "meek" in the Merriam-Webster dictionary, it's sweet), it also moves you to charity, which is the pure love of Christ, by which all things are possible.

Breathe, Elder Hill, breathe.... I just get so excited.

The point: ACT on your faith. Believe in God, believe that He is.... and do something about it. Show Him your faith,and I promise and testify that He will show you HIs love. For a missionary, faith is often believing that something good will come of a day of tracting, or that the Lord will touch an investigator, or that the bishop will actually TRY to help you, or simply that the Lord will overcome your weaknesses in order to bring to pass his righteous purposes. For regular Joes: Faith is having the guts to stand up for your religion, believing enough to read your scriptures before you go to bed, to put aside some time to prepare a talk or do some service, or simply to pray every morning and night.

I love you :D I know that the Lord is watching out for you. You are in my prayers :D Have a sweet week.

Strange Week -- 15 October 2012

This week I've been pretty sick. Seriously. It's been ugly... but, nevertheless, the work goes on. Just because a mother is sick, doesn't mean she stops caring, eh?

So, M and M: We went by their place a few times this week (once they fed us dinner, they're amazing) and we taught them. Or we tried. Whenever we bring up the Book of Mormon, M seems to try simply to look for the imperfections in the book. So, we discussed the importance of faith and looking for the good things instead of searching for the imperfections. Elder C was pretty angry with me after that particular lesson, because I answered a lot of their questions, and didn't really give him the chance..... I'm an idiot. So, I am still learning about teaching in unity and trying to address their concerns. But, we had a nice comp study about it and we will get on top of it. I'm still really hopeful for them because they recognize a change, and once we focus them on how they feel instead of what they think, they will be able to see the miracles.

The Ms.... Baptism this Saturday.... maybe.... hopefully.... She's waiting because she wants her brother to do the baptism. They just need an interview.... So stinking close.... but everyone is on board.

Other than that things have been pretty slow this week, but I've been learning a lot.

I don't really know what else to say.

This morning I was reading in Mosiah 4:

19 For behold, are we not all ^abeggars? Do we not all depend upon the same Being, even God, for all the substance which we have, for both food and raiment, and for gold, and for silver, and for all the riches which we have of every kind?

20 And behold, even at this time, ye have been calling on his name, and begging for a ^aremission of your sins. And has he suffered that ye have begged in vain? Nay; he has poured out his ^bSpirit upon you, and has caused that your hearts should be filled with ^cjoy, and has caused that your mouths should be stopped that ye could not find utterance, so exceedingly great was your joy.

Oh! I've got it.... 2 Nephi 6: 17 But thus saith the Lord: Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered; ^afor the ^bMighty God shall ^cdeliver his covenant people. For thus saith the Lord: I will contend with them that contendeth with thee—

There are some days when we feel captive; when we are harrowed up by our sins and we become beggars to the Lord, God for our own salvation. Unfortuanately, these days are not few and also unfortuantely, our begging is not always due to our own sins. This week in Canada there was a young woman who killed herself because of bullies at school. She had to switch schools many times in order to get away, until it turned into too much, so, she ended her life.

When I was a jr. in high school, I was up late doing homework (hard to believe, but it's true) when I felt I needed to call a dear friend of mine. I called and she answered in tears. She had taken a knife to her stomach and was bleeding badly. She was in the pit of dispair. I can't remember exactly what it is that she said or even what I said, but somewhere in the course of that conversation I (rather, someone through me, I'm sure) convinced her to drive herself to the ER where she received medical treatment (obviously I won't say a name, and obviously this is a story I don't share lightly).  After she graduated, she kinda disappeared off the face of the earth, until about a year and a half later when I bumped into her whilst on a lunch break at work. She was engaged to a good man and had made a complete turn around, she was an institue graduate and was only a year away from getting her bachelors in some form of medical study that I can't remember.

She had changed.

It was beautiful to see.

Regarding repentance, Preach My Gospel states the following:

As we repent, our view of ourselves and the world changes. As we change, we recognize that we are children of God and that we need not continue making the same mistakes over and over... Thus, as we repent daily, we will find that our lives will change and improve. Our hearts and our behavior will become more Christlike. We will come to feel great joy in repenting daily.

So, Elder Hill, what does all of this have to do with Mosiah, 2 Nephi, and your friend? Well, calm down, and I'll tell you.

There are certainly days when we seem to feel theneed to beg for our lives. We are brought to our knees before our Divine Creator and we hope simply that we will be able to be delivered from the pain and/or sin which binds us. This is something that every person experiences, regardless of race, creed, color, religion, age, sex, family situation, etc. We are all beggars, and He is the ultimate benefactor. He will not see us drop silently into the night. He will "pour out his Spirit upon [us], and [will] cause that [our] hearts will be filled with joy, and [will] cause that [our] mouths [will] be stopped that [we] [will] not find utterance, soo exceedingly great [will be] [our] joy." He promises that the "prey of the terrible shall be delivered..." The Lord will not suffer us to be comfortless if we will simple turn to Him. I suppose begging for our lives makes it sound very humbling, and very serious. God did intend it to be that way.

Let us, therefore, humble ourselves. Let us get on our kness and beg to the one who will lift us higher than we have ever been. He loves us. He will not see us alone. He will not see us comfortless. We are never alone.

I love you all very very much.

Shout out to Elder Call who leaves the MTC  soon!

Week one... transfer two... year one... mission one ; | -- 9 October 2012

Well,

Tuesday is our p day this week. Elder Church and I picked up three new investigators this week bringing the total to (drumroll, please): 15 investigators. 9 progressing. Wow.

Danielle and Ryelan are a single mom and her son who are both very VERY familiar with Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Bible. She is looking for a church that encourages having a RELATIONSHIP with Jesus Christ and not just accepting His grace (her words). She would also like to be a part of a church "family" where everyone takes care of each other. Is any of this sounding familiar? It should. We covenant to do both of those things when we are baptized into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I am very hopeful for both of them. Ryelan has an autism, but he is very VERY high functioning. There's no way I would have guessed. He's a good boy who loves his momma very very much, therefore, he and I relate well :)

The other new guy is a gentleman by the name of Jay Applegarth. Jay is native (Cree by tribe) and is very adamant in fulfilling tradition. We gave him the first lesson just two nights ago and while we were over he had a friend over who was playing the drums with him and singing native music. I'm not a hundred percent sure if we were allowed to do this or not, but it felt like the right thing to do, so we joined in. Very VERY VERY cool experience. So, we later found out that he has been taught by the missionaries before and he was strong in the traditions of his fathers (see Alma 18). We discussed the differences between what his culture believed and taught versus what the church teaches, and he concluded that they are very close. How could this be? Well, could it be possible that his people are decendants of a certain tribe coming out of Israel? It would seem so (see Enos). So, we asked him to pray after establishing expectations and setting up a date to come back and he prayed that he would be able to know when it was right to be baptized and that he would be able to recognize the path through Jesus Christ that would bring him the most happiness. Wow. I sincerely hope that we will be able to resolve his concerns and lead him into the fold of God. Goodness, I've been blessed.

We're not sure if we'll have a baptism this week, because Kylan needs to attend church one more time before he qualifies. So, it may be pushed to next week if they didn't watch general conference. Dang it, Satan! Hate that guy. They were in BC over the long weekend and we couldn't call and remind them, so we won't know until they get back if we need to plan for a baptism or not.

Temperatures have dropped in Canada to below freezing at night and the days are loaded with temperatures of a stunning 8 degrees celcius (I'm told it's like... 50 farenheight....). As you well know, I don't get cold very easily, but I've been wearing my suit jacket during the day because of requirements, but have also been wearing a nice, thick, two-layered coat (thank you mom and dad) when the sun goes down (which has been happening at, like, six). It's been an adventure, no Canadian snow yet [DANG IT], but I'm stoked for when it does happen. I love the snow. Everyone up here is dreading the winter, and everyone asks me if I am, too. When they find out I'm not it's often associated with a comment along the lines of, "You haven't been here long, have you?" The question is rhetorical. I'm just thinking they know something that I don't. Often, people get a look in their eye and say creepy Canadian-Maine stuff, like, "Going way up there, eh?" and I think, "Yeah. Why? What are you not telling me?!" Terrifying, I'm telling you.

Oh! Canadians are afraid of the dark. True story. Nobody is outside after it gets dark. Nobody. Seriously. 

Anyway, our zone was split in half and Elder Tulane (one of our zone leaders) is suffering. There isn't a single person left in our zone that enjoys playing basketball. :D Good news. Volleyball and dodgeball are on their way. :D

I've been working on getting JACKED (must be said with such emphasis or it doesn't sound like you're doing anything at all). Jump rope (500 times a morning... at least, unless I decide to go for a set amount of time instead, in which case it can get above a thousand.... at which point I just stop counting) Usually around 50 pushups, 30 pull-ups (I inherited a free pull-up bar!!!!) 30 25lb curls, and planks like crazy. I hate planking. I also hate pull-ups. Depressing times of the morning. But, if I want a good core and a good back, I need them.

I've lost weight, thank goodness, and have been eating 6 small (fist sized) meals a day instead of 3 large-ish meals. Lots of vegetables and protein. When I do eat carbs, it's usually something that a member is feeding me, or a piece of bread with peanut butter on it.

Last thought (getting past the boring regular things): WASN'T CONFERENCE AMAZING!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!? (I'm not sure I put enough there..... one more time....)?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!??!?!?!?!?!?!?!?? (better, I think)

So, the missionaries were the only ones in the stake center when they announced that they were allowing 18 year old graduated men to go out and 19 year old women.  We LITERALLY stood up and cheered. There were tears shed and it was a beautiful moment. Why? Because God knows who we are. He knows how to succor his people. We, as missionaries, understand that the year between high school and a mission is the hardest year of our lives (I'm not the only one that feels that way) and having men come out sooner, whill (doing WHat WHat WHay? I WHill!) enable so many more young men and women to come out. "The work will go forth boldly, nobly, and independent..." Heavens to loving betsy. The gospel is true. It is so comforting to know that the Lord knows me and all of His children so personally.

Conference highlights? The obvious announcement behind missionary work. Then the other obvious---Elder Holland, duh. Amazing. I love him. Goodness his talk was SOOOOOO good. It made me ask myself, "How much do I love God?" My personal committment to serve was strengthened. I loved the themes of missionary work, and becoming who you are destined to become, choosing to be happy, and helping your children live up to the potential they have been given. Priesthood was amazing. There's just so much I could say.... But instead I'll ask a question: How did any of the talks from General Conference strengthen your testimony and help you become more converted to the Gospel? Also, what are you going to CHANGE in your life in order to bring yourself into closer harmony with those teachings?

One more word about General Conference: WHITCHICKABAM.

I love you all so much. Thank you for your prayers and your love. Have a wonderful week and an amazing upcoming Thanksgiving (I say that because it was Canadian Thanksgiving up here... lame holiday. People LITERALLY have no idea what they're celebrating.).

Week Six of Transfer 1 -- 2 October 2012

Well. That was quick.

Mostly, people just want to know about my investigators, eh?

Well, there's M and M who have been having a tough time with a combination of diabetes and the flu, but have us over as often as they feel healthy enough. They are science fiction geeks, so we get along really well.

The B family... She has MS and he knows it's true, but will only join if we can get his wife to join, because he doesn't feel he can hold it on his own. They are very faithful and we have connected a lot. Every time we go over it is just such a spiritual experience.

The W Family. Part member family who have endured lots of hard times and have found stability in the gospel. They are all very dilligent in everything they do. They are all car junkies, which means I relate well with them. They are also book junkies, which means I relate doubly well. They are altogether wonderful people who have always worked hard to get what they need. Heavenly Father is definitely watching over them.

The M Family. Gold. She is a single mother with 3 kids. Two of them are baptisimal age. K and K. K straight up just told us he believes and wants to be baptized. K speculates a little more because her dad taught her to ask quesitons (way to go dad!), but she listens to the answers as well. So, she has learned to accept and love the church as well. K (the mother) is an incredibly sweet woman who recognizes the need for it and has also told us she wants to be baptized. We have baptisms for her and her kids scheduled on October 13th. Boom. God is amazing!!!!!! (Alma 26:12-everything-in-that-chapter anyone?)

We have several very solid potentials. D and her son R are very interested, but she is head nurse at the local hospital, and is called in A LOT. So, we got there once, but she got a call and had to leave within like, 2 minutes of us being there. It's tough.

In other news. Elder P is going home to Salt Lake. He had a tough day yesterday.

Elder C is the new District Leader.

Life is just wonderful and nuts.

What Is This Madness? -- 24 September 2012

I swear, if someone were to look into the daily life of your average missionary, they may say, "Well, I'm impressed by all the work these guys do, but that doesn't mean I'm going to join your church." However, let's say they were to just experience the spiritual experiences of the week for a missionary, They would come away saying; "When can I be baptized?"

True story.

Why?

Miracles. Every single day. Last night we were going around handing out invitations for the new temple open house (it's a really REALLY big deal around here and we've been doing an awful lot to make sure people get the opportunity), and we stopped by one of our potential investigators. We knock on their door and she is really kind and curious about the temple. Then she says, "So, when can you come back so we can talk about your religion?"

What is this madness?

"How's Thursday night around 6 sound?"

"Sounds great, could you call on Tuesday and remind me?"

....

All we needed to do was show up.

I just want to talk about that simple principle. There are many things we do in the gospel that just require us to show our faces. Church; we just need to be there. Temple; we just need to be there. Prayer; we just need to be mentally present. Study; we just need to BE THERE.

WHY is that so important?

Think about it for just a moment; How does just showing up to a single day of church change your life?

I'm going to tell you a story. Once upon a time on my mission, we were told that a few people in the ward had stopped attending church because someone had offended them. So, we went by and testified that if they would just go to church one more time, they would see that the Lord needed them, no matter what anyone else said. They cried and committed. They came. And now they have fixed things with the individual and have been attending ever since. How will this act strengthen their faith? They will be able to cleansed every week from the filth that burdens us every day of our lives. They will be able to experience life-altering spiritual experiences because they were there. They will get to go to the celestial kingdom (no, you may not go to the celestial kingdom if you aren't willing to keep the covenants you made at baptism: keeping the sabbath day holy) because they are coming.

When you simply choose to show up, you prove to God that He can trust you to with the lives of those He will put in your path. That means the lives of your children (His children) your friends (His children) and the guy you sit next to on the bus (His child). When you just simply show your faith by showing up, you prove to God that you are willing to live.

Sorry, whenever I email home I just feel like I rant, and I'm sorry for that. I want you to know that I love you so much, and I just want you to know that this Gospel is not hard. God has created a path for you that is simple and will lead you to be able to overcome ALL things.

This Church is true. When you live the Gospel, life is comparably easy. When you don't, life is much harder.

I love you so so so so so much.

"It's a long way to the top, if you want to rock & roll."

Elder Hill -- 20 September 2012

Dear Sister Hill,

Your son just left my home moments ago.  He is not aware as to the reason why I asked him for your email address.  I asked him discreetly as a group were leaving my home this evening.  I want to write to you and tell you what an amazing Elder you and your husband raised.  He testifies with the Spirit and it is so very evident to me that he is filled with the Spirit when he speaks.  He has come to my home a few times now.  Each time he has said something directly to me that Heavenly Father wants me to hear.  Elder Hill is unaware of the extent of it.  I told him last visit but I really do not think he understands the power in which I speak of it.

Without the thesis version, may I say, my life is riddled with unusual trials.  I truly am blessed to know that I can turn to my Heavenly Father and know He is listening.  However, on occasion, such as today, my heart becomes burdened to the point of almost a paralyzing feeling inside.  Those very few who are aware, including my Bishop and Stake President agree that the heaviness of such would be felt by anyone who would be asked to walk in these shoes of mine.  My husband felt the weight upon me this evening to the point he said he thought it would be appropriate to cancel our visit with our home teachers and the Elders allowing me the evening to be alone.  I thought I would like to be alone but when he said it out loud, I told him that we must allow the evening to unfold as planned but to expect that after all have left, that I will likely take some time away or at least be alone to grieve… to contemplate… to cry… to try and find peace.

Our home teachers ended up visiting the whole time the Elders were here leaving no time for us to receive the Elder’s message.  When it was 8:55 PM and time for the Elders to leave, I asked if one of them had a scripture they could share with us before we closed our visit with prayer.  Elder Hill smiled and readily said that he had a scripture that comes with a short story. 

He told us of the incident when he was young and his friend was injured on the mountain.  He shared how scary the event was for him and how he and his sister then got lost.  He told us that he was taught as a child to kneel and pray when he needed help.  He testified that it was then that he gained his testimony of prayer and how Heavenly Father helped them find their way back to everyone.  He then read a scripture that beautifully tied in with his story about miracles.  He bore testimony that he knew our God is a God of miracles.  What he didn’t know is that I need a miracle… and a big one.  What he didn’t know is that I feel so sad that I have not asked for one.  What he didn’t know is that all my life I am an ensign of countless miracles, and I dare say that there could not be many that will surpass me in being the recipient of tender mercies and miracles.  What he didn’t know is that Heavenly Father wanted to remind me of that this very evening.  What he didn’t know is that I said to my husband, “No, let the evening unfold as planned… for all I know, Heavenly Father may have a message to me that will come through them.”

Thank you for sending your son on his mission.  It is not just those who have not heard the message of the Gospel that are in need.  Strengthening the Saints is one of the great aspects of our Savior’s plan as well, and you should sleep peacefully at night knowing that your son is busily engaged in His cause.

Sister M.

A Week Full of Miracles -- 17 September 2012

Okay, *cracks knuckles* *stretches shoulders* *warms up neck* *boxing stance* This week has basically been incredible. So, I've redoubled my efforts to be closer to Heavenly Father. Why? Because I've needed all the help I can get. I have been feeling like I've been seriously failing God. I just want to give him everything, you know? So, I've been trying extra hard, including going out of my comfort zone and really talking to my companions about what we could be doing better(kindly of course, I don't want to start any fights). So, since we talked, how much we have been working has just shot through the roof. Next thing we knew, doors opened. Literally.

We met Kim who had just lost her husband and it went soooooooooooooooo well. Let me tell you how we met her. We were sent to talk to a less active family. So we get there and we knock on the door and Kim comes a strolling out. We talk to her, thinking that she must be Sister G [or one of their daughters] and she starts talking about all of the coincidences she's had. Namely, running into lots of missionaries recently. She's been looking for a church [by this point we've found out that the G's moved away a year ago] and has been trying to find a way to explain to her kids where dad is. So, we set up an appointment to teach them and then taught them The Plan of Salvation. What?

Then, we met the W family. Also a success.

Then, we kept teaching M and M and they're like, this *fingers really close together* close to being there.

Miracles.

How?

We've worked as hard as we can. Please check out Ether chapters 4, 5, and 6. Read them. (I seriously hope I've directed you to the correct chapters.) Basically, the Lord helps Ether with just about everything and then he basically says, "Figure it out." So, he works. He collects stones, moltens them into the white glassish rocks, and then climbs a mountain and then talks to God and says, "Here's what I've got." THEN God gave him the light he needed to cross the ocean. So, how do you get guidance from the Lord? How do you see miracles?

Just give Him everything. Work like you've never worked before. You may need to gather a few stones. You may have to climb a mountain to get there, but the Lord, our loving Father, will provide us with the means to accomplish His works. He loves us. He would never leave us alone or miserable. If you will show Him faith. If you will give Him your all, then he will show unto you miracles. He will pour out His blessing upon you.

Goodness loving gracious, this gospel is true. I am so grateful for a Father who will not leave me comfortless. There are lives at stake in this marvelous work, and I am proud to be a part of the work that is going forth "boldly, nobly, and independent." I am grateful for a God of miracles, so grateful for the ability to work and to show Him my mettle, and I pray for the ability to withstand the refinement that will surely come from the tests and challenges ahead, because I know He will turn me into the missionary He needs me to be.

Seems a little disjointed and a little spasmastic, but it's what I've got this week.

I love you all.

Challenge. Look for miracles in your life this week. Then share that with someone you don't know, and let me know how it goes.

My Love Note for the Day -- 17 September 2012

Dear Momma,

Please let Kelly know that I am grateful for all he taught me about life and about music. You wouldn't believe how useful it has all been on my mission. I use music every day to help touch the hearts of others.  Sometimes I sing in lessons with others, there have been times when people have just needed my help preparing something, and there have been many instances that I have been able to get in the door simply because I expressed interest in how well they could play that beautiful piano they have sitting there collecting dust!

I've been searching for an excuse to have someone teach me to play, but without much luck. I suppose the Lord will help me develop the talents he needs me to have.

Also, please text Momma Plouzek and just let her know that I love her very much.

By the way, I love you, Mother, and I am soooooo grateful for everything that you and Dad have taught me. I am definitely here already with huge advantages over many many other missionaries. I know how to cook(healthily), clean (correctly), exercise (regularly and without damaging myself), and teach because I have already been taught. It's wonderful not to have to fight to understand all that I'm being taught. If I could give anyone a single ounce of advice before they came, I would probably tell them just to listen to their mothers and fathers, because they actually do know what they're talking about. WHAT!? Parents knowing what they're talking aboot? Myth.

Oh, Say Does That Star-Spangled Banner Yet Wave

So, on my first day here we had everyone at the transfer station and we all sang "The Star-Spangled Banner." You've never heard it sung so loudly or with so much vigor as it was sung that day. The missionaries are so proud to be American, because America is amazing. I love Canada, but this place is crazy in ways that it doesn't even understand.

That said, there are a number of things that I love about it. First, EVERYONE is just sooooooooo friendly. I haven't had any doors slammed in my face, everyone will listen to what you have to say before they say, "No." And sometimes they say, "Yes." Love that. Absolutely love that.

Today is weekly planning, which takes around 4 to 6 hours depending on how focused we can be. Believe it or not, I am usually the focused one. What? I know. Madness. Canada does that to people.

Elder Church didn't do a survey that they asked us to do because his computer wasn't working on Monday, so they told us to come back and have him take it. In the meantime, I need to tell you that I don't have p day on Monday because I am going to the temple next Saturday. Darn. (:D I LOVE the temple!)

I've been trying to stay away from using misisonary lingo such as: Frikin', flip, fetch, damage, etc. Because it drives me crazy. Can't anyone be a little more creative? Or just calm down. "NOBODY MOVE! I've dropped me brains..."

So, in the evening, we play a year of RISK after journal writing and prep for bed. (We did a game of chess that lasted the first two weeks. I dominated. Hard core.) Elder Park is the new world leader. We have been addressing him promptly, "Elder World Leader," "Elder World Magistrate," "Elder Dictator," "Elder Owns-everything-except-Austrailia-and-Asia-because-Elder-Hill-never-surrenders," "Elder why-did-you-trap-all-the-black-people-on-the-moon-without-a-way-home." (It's RISK 2210 A.D. the only one we could get our hands on...) Elder Church just about had a meltdown when he lost (the game only lasts 5 years instead of going for complete domination). I almost told him to calm down, but he cut me off and said "It's not just a game!" Yeah, we're not playing that again.....

In fact, during comp inventory we decided we weren't going to play board games except on P-Day. A wise decision, I think, because I could use an extra hour of study. And letter writing. And journal writing.

In companionship study the other day, we went over chapter 2 in PMG which covers "Effective Study." It talks about how studying with the spirit helps to give us "solace.... [and] strength to endure to the end." You know those times when you have just had the most awful day of your life, ever?  So, you get home and just sit down next to someone and don't move for like an hour? Or, if you're a girl you cry. Or if you're a guy you cry... sometimes, but only if you're a baby like me.... (haven't cried in front of my companions, not gonna happen). Those situations? Basically, when you need someone most, the Savior is that shoulder to cry on, the person to sit and stare into nothing with, the person who will go for a drive with you, or help you get rid of your stress. How do you get with Him? Study. Invite the spirit. Bring Him into your heart and you will be given the strength you need.

Challenge: Read Chapter 2 of PMG and write down what you can do to change how you study.

I love you. Have a good next 10 days

I Don't Know What Week It Is -- 10 September 2012

So, it's fall in Canada. What that means is 0 first thing in the morning and 28 in the afternoon. (32 farenheight to about 80 farenheight I don't know the exact math.) Cold. You may ask, what does that mean for me?

Hot Chocolate.

One word.

WHITCHICKABAM.

I hope you don't mind that I spent 10 bucks for Dry Pack hot cocoa, because it's too late, I already spent it. And it was worth it. 6 lbs of hot chocolate to last me from now until Christmas.

Let me reiterate.

WHITCHICKABAM.

Anyway, life is wonderful on the Canadian front.

I met a guy a few days ago who was in the Canadian Military and he says that they suck... so, there's another proven stereotype. I haven't been able to prove that every Canadian is afraid of the dark.... but nobody is outside at night other than that missionaries and people going to McDonalds, so I'm going to call a "plausible" on that theory.

In other news, for some reason I can't sleep up here.

We did this service project where we collected 500,000 lbs of food for the local food bank (no exaggeration, it was literaly 542,000 lbs of food) and I was alternating between forklifts (never thought that skill would come in handy on my mission), pallet jacks (I was hoping I'd never have to use that one again), and sheer scottish muscular grit (I use that one every day... I've adopted myself into the scottish whitchickabam clan, our plaid is forest green, navy blue, and candy apple red). I noticed a few interesting things while we were working it. Basically more food was coming from places like trailer parks than coming from rich neighborhoods. What does that tell you? Those who are sufficiently humble are more submissive to the will of God. True story. Dear Mom and Dad. We need to be better about giving at food drive time. I know we just forget, but there are a lot of people with a lot less than us.

Landon, there were two teens who volunteered to work with the missionaries during the food drive. They were out-working many of the missionaries and still rocked the first dibs on pizza. Basically, just know that it doesn't take much to rock the world; it's all on the amount of work that you are willing to put into becoming great.

Anyway, we've been teaching a less active that doesn't want to go to church because he has been offended. Unfortuantely, we're finding that to be the case with most of the less-actives we teach. How can you help? Let me tell you, and I'll quote Elder Uchtdorf: "Stop it." I wrote those two words with all the finger strength I could muster. So, it made the desk shake. Stop insulting. Stop judging. Stop pushing people away. Learn to love others. God is great and wants all to return to him, which won't happen simply because of what some people have said. It's that simple. They surrender their beliefs because of what someone said and it breaks my heart to speak with them. They live in misery without the gospel and they don't even realize it.

Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.

I don't have much time, but I want you to know that this Church is true. God loves us all very much and he wants us to be happy!

Also, look ahead! Christmas is coming!

"Don't you quit, you keep walking, you keep trying, there is help and happiness ahead. It will be alright in the end. Trust God, and believe in good things to come..... Some blessings come soon, some come late, and some don't come until heaven, but for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come."

I love you so much! Sorry I couldn't write more! you'll just have to read my journal when I get back or soemthing.

Pictures.... -- 4 September 2012

So, first of all, my missionary pictures, am I ever going to see some of those? Also, would you send me some pictures of the family? They ask us to have them. "Pictures have power" as they say.

Ash, I talked you up, and the Elders here are interested. Just warning you.

Bri, same with you.

Landon, I talked you up, and the Elders here are not interested. They were almost sold on your beautiful personality, but they couldn't get past you being a dude. I told them they were being short sighted, but they didn't believe me. Don't worry, I didn't talk to the sisters...yet.

Anyway, I do need some pictures just of everyone. Including Bella. And the guys, if you can get me one or two of them. They said family, "Bros included."

Did I mention I get to drive? Every third day! Also, I get to play a lot of lacrosse on p-day and during workout. Elder Park played. Elder Church is learning. Some of the Spanish elders played. Plus a few guys from our zone. Lots of them have sticks here. It's sweet. I will send you some pictures of my ripped body when it is actually ripped.... I've lost weight and am trying VERY hard to eat healthily. It's weird to not hit on women, but I have been able to channel my "devilish charm" into something useful; I found out I'm great at street contacting, especially when it comes to cute women, old people, and people with dogs. I have a tough time with dudes because what dude wants to listen to a message of the gospel unless it's coming from a cute girl, right? "Flirt to convert," as they say in the MTC.

Anyway, Dad, I'm still waiting on that recipe. The Elders are hoarding in on it, so please hook me up soon, cause I'm almost out. I also bought strawberries, bananas, mangos, pineapple and other fruits and veggies. I have a juicer.  The people at the office found out I know how to use it.  So usually my breakfast consists of greek yogurt, protein of some kind, and fruit (could be a juice or just raw fruit. Kinda depends on my mood).

I also need to apologize, I've been sending a lot of downer things home. I love you all and want you to know that if we are faithful and if we stop complaining, things work out. Have faith. Let it change you.

Question of the week: What things can we do in order to maintain our faith in the gospel? Why are those things so important? What are you willing to change in your life in order to grow closer to God? What do you think you SHOULD change?