tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58901088064571486972024-03-08T16:31:07.313-08:00Our Mission in Mexico by "Hermana" StutzneggerAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-33861455294377449802017-05-30T08:25:00.002-07:002017-05-30T08:25:21.813-07:00Because it's true.<div class="MsoNormal">
May 30, 2017<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During our recent Mission President’s Seminar, President George
of the Tuxtla-Gutierrez mission shared this experience.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Chiapas is the state in the southwestern part of
Mexico. When Cortez conquered Mexico, he
only had a little interest in Chiapas.
It did not have the precious metals of the other areas in Mexico. The indigenous tribes were able to escape Cortez’s
army by fleeing to outer mountainous areas.
Many of these tribes still exist today in outlying areas of
Chiapas. They have their own languages
with little of the Spanish influence.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In one of these tribes, there is a mother and a son who
belong to the Church. The son knows both
his native language and Spanish. Each
week, in order to attend church, this mother and son walk five hours to the
nearest chapel. The services are in
Spanish. After the services, they walk
the five hours back to their home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently the son asked his mother, “Why do you go to
church? We walk so far, and you can’t
even understand what they are saying.”
The mother answered, “Because it is the truth.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-31779964186351843792017-03-14T19:02:00.003-07:002017-03-14T19:02:41.249-07:00He watches over us!<div class="MsoNormal">
March
14, 2017<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
am still amazed each time I see a loving Father in Heaven intervene to help one
of his children. It awes me when I see
these simple yet powerful acts.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
had two Elders flying home today because of health problems. We were taking both Elder Nava and Cortes to
the airport early this morning to catch planes.
Elder Cortes' plane didn’t leave until mid-morning, but we had
interviews starting at nine in a chapel over an hour away, so the two were
going together.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last
night we had second thoughts – if we had Elder Cortes stay at the office
instead of our home, we could take Elder Nava at 4:30 AM, turn around, drive to
the office, and pick up Elder Cortes.
This would give this Elder two more hours of sleep with just a little
inconvenience for us. We changed plans.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
left home at 4:30 and were able to finish with Elder Nava by a little after
six. We drove to the office and proceeded
with our Plan B – pick up Elder Cortes and head back to the airport.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
didn’t realize we would be part of heavenly intervention until we arrived the
second time to the airport. As we walked
towards check-in, we saw an Elder standing by the chairs, shifting through
papers. We stopped to say “hello” to
Elder Smith. Elder Smith was flying home
to Washington from the Puebla mission.
He and other Elders had left very early in the morning for the three-hour
bus ride to the airport. Since Elder
Smith was the only one of the group that had flown more than one time, he took
the time to check each of them in and get them to the security gate. He then checked himself in. He inquired about the immigration form that
he knew he needed because he was a resident with a green card. The check-in said they were out and to go to
an office down the hallway. That office
said they he needed to go to another place.
He finally found the form, filed it out and headed to the plane. However, one step was missed. Instead of going to the immigration table
after security, he went to the information table who said he was fine and to go
to the plane. Once the error was found
while trying to load the plane, Elder Smith had to run back, get it stamped,
and ran full speed for the airplane – which had just left.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When
we noticed him he did not have a phone, a phone number, or even one peso to his
name. He had spent all his money
checking his second bag. He had asked to
borrow a phone from several people but was declined. He was there alone, upset, and wondering what
to do. However, Heavenly Father had
already solved that problem with the change to our plans the night before. Divine intervention.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
arranged a new flight, called parents, gave him some money for food, and hugged
him good-by. He will arrive five hours
later than originally planned with no luggage, but I don’t think his parents joy
will be any less.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-4351729513938755342017-01-22T15:57:00.002-08:002017-01-22T15:57:36.931-08:00A sweet experience from Keith<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt;">January 22, 2017</span></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt;">As we finished Stake Conference today, a man walked quickly up to me. He greeted me as I stepped down from the stand. He was a
gentleman in his 70’s, I believe, in a crisply ironed white shirt, tie, nice
slacks, and shiny shoes. He gave me a hug (all men give “Mexican hugs”), and
asked me if I remembered him. I hate it when they say that ‘cause I am
lousy at remembering names and faces!!! </span></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt;">With his smiley face and moist eyes, he said he was sorry for the interview that I had to have
with him over two years ago. He reminded me that he was one who I had to write
a letter of permission to be baptized to President Monson! Then I remembered
him!! His was the story of about 50 years ago. He lived in a rural hilly
area somewhere in Mexico, and 3 men had invaded his house and kidnapped his
little sister. He said he searched for days and days, tracking them and
looking through valleys, mountains, and countryside. Then one day, he
found their “camp”, and horrifyingly discovered that they had just taken the
life of his little sister. A fight ensued. Two men fled the scene, but
the other one commenced “mortal combat” with this gentleman. They fought
until this kidnapper lost his life to the brother of the kidnapped girl. Police arrived, surveyed the scene and heard the story. They told this man to return home and took no action.</span></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt;">Long story short, I
sent the letter to Salt Lake City. My start of the letter to President
Monson was, "Well, this will sound like a real live wild west
story...." ; the First</span><span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12pt;"> Presidency granted baptismal
permission, and here he was today, almost 2 years later, at Stake Conference, a
priesthood bearer, all in his finest Sunday faithful clothing!! Yes…this
is a great experience!!!! My heart was warmed!!!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: Comic Sans MS;"> </span><br /><div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<br /></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="gmail-msolistparagraph">
<span style="font-family: "Comic Sans MS"; font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"> </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-57003921194659658842017-01-22T15:01:00.000-08:002017-01-22T15:01:10.955-08:00A sacred and difficult experience<div class="MsoNormal">
January 22, 2017<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I participated in both a sacred, and difficult experience
today. Sometimes in the midst of great
sorrow and remorse, one still sees the comforting hand of the Lord.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder Ochoa is from El Salvador. His country battles an increasing murder
rate. Elder Ochoa has served faithfully
for twenty-two and one half months. He
is scheduled to return to his country the end of February.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keith received a text this morning from Elder Ochoa’s Stake
President. His step father, but the only
father he has ever known, was murdered last night when someone decided to take
their anger out on the taxi his father was driving. Three taxis drivers lost their life to random
shootings. It was simply murder.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We called Elder Ochoa’s zone leaders and had them arrange to
meet us at the chapel at 1 PM. Elder
Ochoa and his companion were to come to the meeting also. Elder Ochoa came prepared. He sensed that something was wrong but he
just didn’t know who it was. He had a
dream several weeks previous to this that his father passed away, and his hope
was that dream was just a nightmare.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As Keith shared the news, the Elder cried on his
shoulder. We all three hugged and
expressed love. And then he called his bereaved
mother.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As we listened to the phone call and watched the Elder
through our own tears, he expressed his love for the family. Soon, although he was still crying, he gained
composure and started to counsel his mother.
He talked of Heavenly Father’s eternal plan for families. He talked of the fine man that had blessed
them all. And he bore complete faith
that the family would be able to handle and grow through this new trial.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Where did that kind of strength come from? How did he suddenly become all grown up, and
ready to handle what was hitting him?
Keith and I sat there with sorrow, and a rich feeling of love for this
wonderful Elder. As the zone leaders,
Keith and Elder Ochoa’s companion gathered around him to give him a blessing,
there was little doubt of the love that all felt, including our Heavenly
Father.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Will the Elder fly home early or will he choose to stay and
finish? He would go home with honor
either way and we would support either decision. He is taking that decision to the Lord and will
tell us of his wishes once he receives Heavenly Father’s answer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-4301411558704662322017-01-15T10:53:00.001-08:002017-01-15T10:53:52.936-08:00An email changes everything<div class="MsoNormal">
January
15, 2017<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The
morning of December 22<sup>nd</sup> started early – they all do. I had just awakened and headed towards the
bathroom when Keith ran up to me and said: “It’s here”. It was the email from Salt Lake City.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
had been down this path ourselves just three years ago, only we were at the
other end. We knew that the current
President of the Southeast Mission, President Morales, would be told of his
replacement before Christmas. We
wondered each day if that email had arrived and how it would be received.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
read the names of Lindsay and Lesa Mann of Visalia, California. At first I let out a big holler, and then I
cried. I ran down the hall and awoke my
daughter and son in law who were visiting.
Through a bedroom door I whispered the news. She asked if I was crying and through tears I
answered that I was.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Within
minutes I had already stalked Lesa Mann on Facebook. Putting faces to the two people who would be
coming helped me find peace. It helped
me to see the ones who would start loving our missionaries as we have.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What
a strange mixture of emotions! We are
tired, but still going at a complete pace.
We look forward to returning to California, but whatever will be do with
ourselves? We have changed, and we can’t
even tell you how. Our children have
surprised us as they speak longingly of not coming to their “Mexico” home
again. Four out of the five have booked
weekend trips this spring just so they can experience Mexico again. The blessings that have come to our family
because of this service are immeasurable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As
I packed away Christmas this year, I did it far more carefully than before. These loved items will make their way across
two countries to greet us again in California next Christmas.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-40338378523235427682017-01-08T17:11:00.002-08:002017-01-08T17:11:30.273-08:00"Extraction" from Acolman<div class="MsoNormal">
The government of Mexico owns the gas stations and
oil. They announced a 20% increase in the cost of gas. This made
all the truckers mad and they decided to stage a protest. Wish someone
had told us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had two groups of missionaries go to the Pyramids on
January 2. Each group left the pyramids to return home by mid-afternoon.
The first bus with one group of six, ran into a road block and decided to off
road it – and made it past the protest. The second bus, with 4 sisters
and 2 elders, stopped and told everyone on the bus that the bus would probably
sit there for 24 hours. Most of the people got off and walked to a small
town named Acolman to arrange other transportation. Our six
followed. When they got to the town, all the buses were packed and they
called us. We sent them to a local OXXO (7-11), located them on google
maps and headed out about 5PM to see if we could rescue them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We were good for the
first hour and then we hit a protest road block. We sat for 30 minutes
and finally drove over some dirt to get to another road. That road worked
for a while until we hit another protest road block. This time we didn’t
sit so long before we maneuvered off to another road. By now it’s dark –
and there are hundreds of stopped cars. Keith hid his wallet, and all my
money and credit cards were hid in the normal woman hiding place. We saw a man waving a flag and he led us down
a dirt road to another possible way. We drove for about 15 minutes more and
were stopped again. We were now in the
town of Acolman, but still several miles away from our missionaries. Many people were walking, but security guards
at a local store told us of the danger of crossing the bridges. Not only were there protesters, but some
bridges also had bandits.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The truckers were blocking roads into Mexico City. It
wasn’t just one or two trucks – the blocks would be 30 trucks, 3 wide and 10
deep. The drivers just walked away from
their trucks. They are doing it for 3 days we were
told. We took a two lane, one way street, and drove the wrong way. We
started to think of Plan B. We called
the Mecham’s (our neighbors and President of the South Mission) and got the
name of the Pachuga mission president and called him. President Kimball
had been at the pyramids that day and had trouble getting home with his family.
He told us he had seen our missionaries walking. He is new to the area
and didn’t know the town of Acolman, but he started to set up Plan B if we
couldn’t get to our missionaries.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At 10 PM we dashed into a store for a bathroom.
We were once again at a roadblock. It was now time for Plan B. President
Kimball took over and got a local bishop to go to the OXXO and pick up our
missionaries. We were less than 2 miles away from them and couldn’t get
through. We sat in Acolman till we knew they were at a home. They ended up sleeping on member’s floor – cold,
hungry, tired, but safe – and safe was good enough for us that night. We drove back home getting here about
midnight. Sleep was not the first thing
on our minds that night.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keith and Chris Nebeker headed back the next morning. The plan was to walk over the safest bridge
and get our missionaries. I called them
the “Von Trapp’s” and wished them well.
We thought another man might look more official than an old woman
(me). Surprisingly, the bridge was
cleared the next morning and they had the missionaries within a few minutes of
arriving in Acolman. Keith and Chris
said the girls just ran to them and cried as they hugged “their rescuers.” Of course, the boys who had kept them safe,
were not nearly so emotional!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
,
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once in the car, they all slept for the hour+ ride. We thanked our Heavenly Father for their
protection.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-8803718198687634322017-01-08T16:43:00.000-08:002017-01-08T16:43:00.246-08:00Yes - reminded once again that they are 19 year old boys....<div class="MsoNormal">
January 2, 2017</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have an Elder - Elder H. - that joined us last week. While at
the MTC (Missionary Training Center), he had a reaction to nuts. We happen to have 4 epi-pens in the
offices that were left over from another missionary who had returned
home. They are out of date – but they are not available in Mexico so
we have held on to them. When our new Elder H. was in the office,
I was training him on the use of the pen in case he ate nuts and had a reaction.
I told him to keep one with him, and if he had a reaction, he needed to give
himself a shot – ASAP. I even told him he could give a shot through his
pants if he was in an emergency situation. I was holding one of the
containers with an epi-pen and told him how to open it and get it ready for a
shot. Elder A. was watching me. On the following Monday (P-Day)
Elder A. came in to pick up the mail.
He saw an unopened epi-pen. I don’t know what he was thinking but
he opened it thinking it was just for teaching/demonstration tool. He
aimed at his thigh and rammed it in still thinking this was the “play”
model. Well it wasn’t and he knew pretty quickly he was a fool.
Blood soaked into his pants, he got a little faint, and the Nebekers laid him
down for an hour. So much for that $400 epi-pen - it did provide a pretty good laugh.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-65729223559980942542016-11-04T08:12:00.002-07:002016-11-04T08:12:51.545-07:00Home is where your parents live<div class="MsoNormal">
October
31, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Three
years in Mexico…that calling changed our life so very much. Three years is such a long, and a short time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My
children and grandchildren have loved coming here on vacation. Mexico has so much to offer – antiquity,
history, and brand new experiences. They
all have seen, and eaten, things they never would have dreamed of. Some have held baby lions, pet camels, and
eaten deep fried crickets. They have
walked through churches that have stood for hundreds of years and climbed
pyramids that are thousands of years old.
All of them have said it was their best vacation ever.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Their
“last vacation” here has already happened for most of them. It is so interesting to see their reactions
as they leave. Our home here has become
their family home and they feel sad leaving it.
They talk of never being here again and what they will miss. They will miss all of “this stuff” here. Some of them are trying to find ways to come
back “one more time.” Slowly Mexico City
has replaced Oroville.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Home
truly is where your loved ones are.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-59659187690044840002016-11-04T08:08:00.002-07:002016-11-04T08:08:56.883-07:00Two transfer missionary<div class="MsoNormal">
November
4, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not
all young LDS men can serve missions.
Sometimes one has the desire, but not the physical ability to complete
24 months of service.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The
church has a program called the Two Transfer Mission. This mission is for 12 weeks (6 weeks equals
one transfer). This is program allows a
young man with limited abilities to “try out missionary work” and see how his
body responds. These missionaries do not
go to the MTC first and have not attended the Temple. If they are able to handle the rigorous lifestyle,
they can appeal to Church Headquarters to fulfill a two-year mission. The church asks that they work each six week
period with a different companion to vary the experience. When the 12 mission is completed, the young
man goes home with an honorable release.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jose
is our two-transfer missionary. He is 5
foot, 1 inches tall. He weighs 123
pounds. He was born with a bone disease
that has required 5 surgeries in the last 13 years. Too much walking causes intense pain at
night. His pain medicine causes ulcers
in his stomach. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It
became apparent in Jose’s first transfer that he would not be able to serve a
full 24-month mission. Each night at
home he would cry. After pain medication,
he would cry again because of the pain in his stomach. We approached him about going home at 6
weeks. He talked with his parents and
both agreed and asked to stay for 6 weeks more.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jose
is with his second companion. His
companion Cesar is also from Mexico. Cesar
is 6 inches taller, and 80 pounds heavier than Jose. Last night we heard how it was going with
these two. It’s going very well. When Jose starts to hurt too much, Cesar
picks him up and piggy backs him around their area.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
cried.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-8772447975828692632016-08-28T09:26:00.000-07:002016-08-28T09:26:05.030-07:00Elder Lorenzo L.<div class="MsoNormal">
August
28, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This
week we say good bye to one of the best missionaries we have known, Elder Lorenzo L. He joined our mission within weeks of our
arrival. We have loved him since we
first met him. He is held in the highest
esteem by every missionary in this mission.
He is a natural at teaching and his love of people can be easily felt.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Lorenzo L. is from Chile. He came on his
mission just shy of his 24<sup>th</sup> birthday. He is a certified mid-wife. He had received a scholarship for this
training and the scholarship could not be deferred. He chose to finish his schooling and then
serve a mission. Because of his
outstanding performance in school, he was offered a scholarship for a
postgraduate degree studying in Europe following graduation. However, his goal was to fulfill a mission
for the church and so he turned this opportunity down.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While
attending medical school, he fell in love with another medical student. She is still the love of his life, but
together they decided that he should serve the Lord for two years before they
married. She stayed behind practicing her profession. The wedding is planned for November.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Lorenzo L.’s parents will arrive next Friday morning. We will be there with Elder L. to greet
them. There will be many tears of joy
which will help mask some of the tears that Keith and I will be crying. Our tears will include a few of sorrow as we
bid farewell to an extremely fine man.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
What
a privilege we have had in Mexico.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-50363198138580624102016-08-28T09:02:00.000-07:002016-08-28T09:26:28.437-07:00Elder Daniel A.<div class="MsoNormal">
August
28, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Daniel A. came to us from Tijuana.
We laughed when we first saw his picture on the application. How did this Nordic name come to be attached
to someone who was obviously a Mexican?
After he arrived, we found he had been raised by an American stepfather
and hence the name. He was also fluent
in both English and Spanish.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Anderson is a temporary missionary. His
mission call is to Logan Utah. However,
his Visa into the United States was delayed and so he joined our mission while
waiting for his Visa. He is a fine young
man and easily fit into Mexico City.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Anderson did not know his biological father.
Another man had filled that position for him. However, just two weeks ago he received an
email from a cousin. He had not heard
from this cousin for 8 years, but in this email she told him how she had
recently run into his biological father, right here in Mexico City. She shared an address and an email of his
father. Elder Anderson became excited
and nervously sent an email telling his biological father that he was currently
in Mexico City and that he was serving a mission for the church. Within a week his Father found him in a local
church. Elder Anderson said there was
little doubt it was his father – they resembled each other in every way except
for age. His biological father brought
along 2 half siblings, and shared information about 2 other half sisters living
in Spain. It was a special and healing
reunion for Elder Anderson.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our
Heavenly Father knows us all so personally.
He knows of our needs and our desires.
I have total faith that Heavenly Father made it possible for these two
to meet. And now, after being in our
mission for 16 weeks and the arrival of both a Visa and a Father, Elder
Anderson flies to Utah on Monday.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-43330244722496299722016-08-22T14:15:00.000-07:002016-08-22T14:15:02.875-07:00The final chapter<div class="MsoNormal">
August
22, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
think I can write the final chapter of my “leg” experience. It has taken me awhile to get to this
point. Each time I took 2 steps forward,
I often found that I had to step at least one step back. However, after this past weekend, I think I have
moved into the safety zone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
had necessary plastic surgery just 4 weeks ago on the hole in my leg. When I was so sick last May, the doctors had to remove
the infection in my leg in order to heal me.
The hole that remained was at least the size of an American
quarter. It healed for several months
before it looked like another surgery would be necessary. It had healed enough that I was praying that
the surgeon would look at it and cancel the surgery – let it continue to heal
on its own. That was wishful hoping.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
During
the first plastic surgery they found that the destruction of the cells went clear to
the bone and so that surgery increased the “hole” by 2 ½ times. Later that week they placed the skin graft taken from the other side of my leg.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
came home in a wheel chair which is difficult in a 3 story house with varying
levels on each floor. I crawled up our
spiraling staircases too many times and the dozen cement stairs that lead into
the house were even more challenging. My
daughter Laura came to give me help. From
wheelchair I moved to a cane. And now
the cane is resting against the wall.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However,
even just 10 days ago, the healing was not going well. Last Saturday I finally turned a corner and
that corner brought new hope. This will
heal after all.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Emotionally
at times I hung onto the knot at the end of my rope. I pleaded with my Heavenly Father and I cried
too many times into my pillow. I now
know that I have been blessed and soon this will just be a difficult
memory. The prayers of many others have
helped immensely. Very soon the exercise
bicycle will not sit quietly in the corner!<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-11003450651999829272016-07-26T09:55:00.003-07:002016-07-26T09:57:48.656-07:00Returning to a mission - Elder Reyes de Leon<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Elder Reyes will complete his 2 year mission in just 2 weeks. His story was recently featured in the Central America Liahona. It is a courageous story of determi</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">nation and perseverance</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">. Hopefully I have done a good job in translating!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Returning to my mission </b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">On August 15, 2015, I was called to serve a full time
mission to Mexico City, Southeast Mission.
I will never forget the moment in which I opened my call; the moment was
special and totally different from most of the experience of others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I was born on the 20<sup>th</sup> of January, 1994, to a
wonderful and great people, my parents.
I come from a family in which every day, while on the Earth, we strive
to succeed. When I was nine years old, I
was diagnosed with a disease that would change my life and my family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">After taking many tests and studies to identify the disease,
I was told that I needed to have an operation for a tumor that had formed in my
head. When the day of the operation came
we relied on Heavenly Father that all would be well. We had also hoped that the words from the
doctors following the surgery would be that there was nothing more and that my
recovery would be immediate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">After passing this trial my family and I continued to strive
and progress within the Gospel. Years passed and all was going well until I turned
14 years of age. At this age my family and I did not imagine what was to happen
to me. Five years after the first surgery a tumor was again growing in my head.
No new studies were required. The
doctors already knew what was wrong and another operation was required; only
that this time it would be totally different. On this occasion, Dr. Castellanos
(doctor who saw my case all my life), knew that my illness had worsened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I remember that he talked with my parents and with me about
what was happening, and he mentioned that treatments of chemotherapy were
needed. I would have to fight this
disease for the rest of my life.
Histiocytosis cancer occurs in several ways. It manifested in my bones, creating tumors.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I did not want chemotherapy at 14 years of age and following
my second operation. However, I started
my treatment that lasted for four years.
During those years of chemotherapy, many tests and trials were experienced
by my family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I can only imagine the tests that were endured by my family,
but they never passed on the difficult times to me. Every week I went to the hospital to receive
my chemotherapy. My family always was
with me at every moment. I did feel
something special in those moments of difficulties and that something was
hope. I knew hope meant believing that
all will be well and that God would comply with His promises. Hope has the power to fill our lives with
happiness, hope sustains us from despair.
This encouraged me to continue through all the tests.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 19.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">When I turned 18, after having 4 years of chemotherapy, I returned
often to the doctor to see how my body had accepted the treatment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">It came the time which had to make the decision to serve a
mission or not. I remember that one of the doctors was not in total agreement
that I serve a mission. My body was well, thanks to the treatment that I had,
the disease had stopped and there was nothing more. It was incredible knowing
that all was well, and that I could do the things I’d like to. On one occasion
when I was talking to Bishop of the ward where I attended, he mentioned serving
a mission. I remember that the Bishop asked me if I wanted to serve a mission,
and I said yes, I was willing to serve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I started filling out my paperwork and be ready to serve a
mission. My papers were sent to Salt Lake City. We waited for the letter to
return with my assignment. With the letter in my hands, it was time to know
where I was going to serve. I opened it
at the time we selected and it was special. My grandmother was sick with cancer
and about to leave this earth. I remember that we gathered around her as she
was in bed being unable to speak. She wanted to know where I was going; so I
opened my call and read it. I felt something special in my heart as I read that
I would in Mexico, and felt a great love for the country.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I passed the time preparing to serve as a missionary, reading
my Scriptures, praying to the Heavenly Father, and attended the missionary
preparation classes that helped to increase my faith in Jesus Christ daily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Finally the day came to go on my mission and I was excited,
happy and nervous about doing something that my family and I had been waiting
for a long time, serving a full time mission.
I started my mission on August 15, 2012 and it was so special and unique
that I will never forget how my testimony began to grow as I served the Lord
with all my heart, mind and strength.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 8.25pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I loved seeing how the Gospel of Jesus Christ changed the
life of the people. I knew that time was something special and I had to forget
myself and give myself entirely to the Lord's work. Having served nine months
in the mission, without knowing what would happen, once again there appeared a
small ball of dough in my arm elbow. The doctors said that it was a tumor and
had to return home to recover. I returned to a sad home and was desperate to
know what I had, the doctor saw me again and started blood tests and other studies.
With the results in the hands of the doctor, he told me: "you have
nothing!"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I remember that my mother and one of my sisters were with me
at the time, and the two turned to me as my eyes filled with tears to know that
I had returned from the mission without being ill. After spending time at home,
I started to study at the University. I was often thinking that the mission time
that was not over. The leaders of the
Church told me that I had done my part to serve and that it was not necessary
to return, and that I had been returned with honor. Eventually, they called me
as a teacher of future missionaries of stake and when this happened I felt
happy for the mission release I’d received, happy for the desire to help others
with my mission, and that the mission was a success. However, something inside
of me still wanted to help in Mexico, and the desire to return was in me. My
uncle shared his experience when from his mission. I thought so much of my
mission. I decided to go back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I went to the Stake President and shared with him that I
wanted to return. He helped me a lot and we started to prepare my papers to
return. Two years passed and I remained at home waiting for an answer to see if
someday I could return or not. In those two years, we tried three times and
never got a response. I decided that I had to do something and started to work,
prepare, and focus more on my gospel study.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Finally it happened and my father received a call that I
could return to complete my mission. In June 2015, a Friday, they called me
from the offices of the Church, and they told me that I could now return to the
mission and gave me a date for leaving. The date of departure was the Monday of
the following week. I couldn't believe it. I thanked God for giving me this
great opportunity to return. That weekend was one that I will not forget. I had
to prepare myself to go back to complete my mission. My family and I were so
happy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">At this moment I am in the Mexico City, Southeast Mission,
culminating my mission. Four months before finishing, I have grown to understand
that God and our Lord Jesus Christ are always on our side and that they know
the desires of our heart. I know that Jesus Christ lives and that He came to
this earth to die for every one of us. I testify that God has created this
wonderful Plan of happiness for His children, and that the tests that we endure
in life cannot be compared with the test Jesus Christ faced on this earth. And
that in this moment Jesus Christ guides the steps of both my companion and me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">I testify that the Church of Jesus Christ is true, that the
Book of Mormon is true and Joseph Smith was the perfect instrument by which
this beautiful and wonderful Gospel was restored.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">As a representative of Jesus Christ I know that God blesses
us when we are faithful and obedient to all that is demanded, and that He is
always with us wherever we go. All in the life is based on our Heavenly Father,
and God blesses us for our obedience. I Testify of these things, testify of God
the Father, of his son Jesus Christ and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-1568890360563027422016-07-18T14:24:00.002-07:002016-07-18T14:24:19.161-07:00Everything has value<div class="MsoNormal">
June
18, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There
is a noticeable difference between Elders returning to North America and those
returning to Central and South America.
Of course I am talking in generalities but almost without exception, I
see the following.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elders
returning to North America take very few of their clothes and shoes home. It can be compared to a woman who has just
given birth. A pregnant woman is so tired
of her clothes that once the baby is born, she is happy to wear something
different. North Americans take home
their favorite ties and socks, but most of the rest stays behind including
their underwear.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Those
returning to Central and South America show much greater respect for their worn
out clothes. They find value in all
things and find it very hard to get their bags down to the “acceptable” weight
for the airlines. I see broken toys,
crepe paper from birthday parties, books, and worn out shoes returning home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
recently sent an Elder home to the Dominican Republic. First we replaced his luggage because it had
not survived the 2 years of service here.
We told him of the weight restrictions and stressed that his bags could
not be even a pound more. When we picked
him up to go to the airport, his shave kit was attached to his belt. We arrived at the airport and of course his
bags were overweight – but he was prepared.
He pulled bags out of his pocket and moved items over into them. He started to attach each bag to his backpack
or belt. We took him to security and
laughed as he walked away with bags tied in many places. He was leaving nothing behind!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
North
Americans live in a “throw away” country.
That is not that way in other places!<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-71376231822120102732016-06-15T17:38:00.003-07:002016-06-15T17:38:29.064-07:00The ability to look on the heart<div class="MsoNormal">
June
15, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
receive notice of missionaries who will be joining us by email. We receive a copy of their missionary
application and their name suddenly shows up on our missionary software. We are notified of missionaries coming from
Mexico as long as 4 months ahead, and sometimes just weeks before they
arrive. We are often given a five month
alert on missionaries coming from foreign countries due to strict Visa requirements. Yesterday I received notice of 2 new Elders
who will join us. Both were of the same
ethnicity but from two different countries.
The comparison of the two left me uneasy. It was a stark reminder of the different
opportunities that are open to some, and not to others. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
M. is graduating from high school probably about right now. He has done extremely well in school and
earned an Associate’s degree along with his high school diploma in the past few
years. His parents are both members of
the church. He is an Eagle Scout, a clarinet player, and his sister is also
currently serving a mission in Mexico. With
4 years study of Spanish with grades of “A”, he will probably pick up the
language quickly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
H. is 20 and joined the church when he was 18.
His parents disowned him because of that decision so he lives
alone. With only an elementary level
education, where he rates his accomplishment level as “not very good,” he has
supported himself as a cook for the past 4 years. His home ward will help him purchase the
necessary clothing items, and also be the ones to kiss him good bye. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Both
Elder M. and Elder H. are highly recommended by their local leaders. Both have the chance to excel here and deepen
their own convictions. Each will
approach this assignment from their own perspective and face discouragement and
challenges differently. Hopefully Keith and I can help guide each to
success. I do know one thing for sure –
Heavenly Father loves each of them more than can be imagined and will bless
them both for their dedicated service.
He has the ability to look on the heart and not on the circumstances.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-44917712308199446352016-05-23T13:50:00.002-07:002016-05-23T13:50:37.176-07:00Sara's perspective on Max with autism.<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Lenore was going to give a lesson on motherhood. Sara, our second daughter, has Max, a son with autism. Lenore asked Sara her perspective on the experience. Sara writes so well and I thought others may enjoy!</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
"Did you know that a front-loading 4.5 Cubic-foot LG washing machine has a maximum speed of 1300 rotations per minute and is available in red, white, and graphite steel? I did.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
Did you know that a Boeing 747 has four wing-mounted engines and eighteen wheels? I knew that too.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
I wouldn’t have known it a few years ago, though. My 10-year-old son, Max, has recently become a master of all things regarding washing machines, airplanes, and elevators, filling his mind with any and every piece of information that he can get his hands on. He is a walking encyclopedia. And he has autism.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="line-height: 19.32px;">Max was diagnosed a few months shy of his second birthday. Having graduated with a bachelor’s degree in human development, my “spidey senses” were tingling six months prior to that. But there was something about getting the official diagnosis; it triggered a reaction in me that I wasn’t quite prepared for.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
I ugly-cried. A lot. I sobbed until I shook. And when I thought I was done, the tears would start again. My husband and I found ourselves mourning the loss of our son’s life as we had pictured it would be. It is okay to feel that way. As I speak with mothers whose children have a new diagnosis, I actually encourage it. You have to go through the grieving process before you can get back to living. And that’s when you put down your plan, pick up God’s, and grab the hand of that little child who still has so much love to give. What I didn’t anticipate was how much I would learn from Max.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
<span style="line-height: 19.32px;">Max is always 100% authentic. He embraces life with reckless abandon, completely oblivious of society’s opinion. And he is so very happy because of it. One particular Sunday he came to church wearing a headlamp and six watches on each arm. Another Sunday he yelled “Amen!” in the middle of a prayer that he believed had gone on too long. And after a beautiful musical number had been shared during Sacrament Meeting, he stood up, clapped, and yelled, “That was great!” How much time do we waste worrying about what other people think? Now I’m not suggesting that we all start wearing headlamps to church and interrupting prayers, but there is freedom in living without inhibition due to the fear of criticism from others.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
The most important life lesson that Max has taught me is to trust. We were all part of that special council in heaven who chose to come down to earth. We sustained Heavenly Father’s plan and made the decision to follow Jesus Christ. What would your premortal self say to you? In times of struggle, I imagine my premortal self saying something like this: “Hey – you signed up for this. You know the beauty of this plan. Have faith in Heavenly Father. Trust in Jesus Christ. You know them, remember? Trust that they will help you do the hard things.” One of the most difficult aspects of motherhood is feeling like you aren’t doing it right. Guilt is a brilliant little tool that Satan uses to make wonderful mothers feel like they don’t measure up, like they aren’t doing enough. Don’t listen to those voices. Focus on your relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ; listen to that wonderful still small voice who works as the instrument to communicate their guidance. Trust in that.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
And guess what – the trust goes both ways. The first few years following Max’s diagnosis were very difficult for me. The frustration that Max experienced not being able to communicate came out in explosive tantrums and meltdowns. On top of that, a surprise pregnancy two weeks after his initial diagnosis brought along a little girl who mimicked everything that her brother did. When I introduced them to people I would say, “This is my son with autism. This is my autistic daughter who does not have autism.” At the end of a particularly difficult week I sat in the temple with tears streaming down my face and a very heavy heart. I felt completely paralyzed in my life and didn’t know what to do. And then the relief came. I heard a voice in my head call me by name and say, “Sara, don’t you know that I trust you?” It caught me completely off-guard. As I sat there, trying to process what had just happened, the clarity came. Yes, it’s going to be difficult. Yes, there will be a lot of tears. But God trusts in my ability to do it.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-bottom: 6px; margin-top: 6px;">
As mothers, it is vital that we constantly remind ourselves that Heavenly Father trusts us to raise His children. Let me say that in a different way. The Almighty creator of heaven and earth, the all-powerful and all-knowing God, trusts you with His children. He is vouching for you. He is pulling for you. And He is there to give you all the help you need. Nurture that relationship. Jeffrey R. Holland said, “Sanctify yourselves. For tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” He wants to bless you. He trusts you. And he loves you.</div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; display: inline; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 19.32px; margin-top: 6px;">
In the Doctrine and Covenants we have been promised that our minds and bodies will be restored to a perfect state. This scripture takes on new meaning to those of us who have children with special needs. I look forward to the day when I see Max after our time here on earth is complete. I am excited to fully remember him from the preexistence and embrace him again, knowing that we did it together. But more than anything I want to thank him for the gift of being his mother. "</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-3802026372877902212016-05-17T17:57:00.003-07:002016-05-17T17:57:43.569-07:00Got to love Elder Blackham!<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">From Elder
Blackham in one of his letters: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS';">I do have one quick question. Is it cooler to be
a missionary or mission president because I think it´s pretty sweet to be a
missionary and can´t imagine anything else cooler then this! </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-64417038602434438652016-05-17T17:55:00.003-07:002016-05-17T17:55:21.601-07:00Once in a lifetime experience?<div class="MsoNormal">
May
17, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
have been a very sick girl. A small
injury on my shin slowly turned into a massive infection that became
septic. For 10 days in the hospital, the
doctors worked to strengthen me so that I could survive. Both my lungs and heart were compromised and
I now have a quarter size hole in my leg that needs to heal. That’s enough said about that!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
now am recovering at home and reflecting on what the experience was all
about. We have lived in Mexico for
almost 23 months. It has been an
experience that can’t be told with just words.
It is the greatest, and the hardest.
As I lay in the hospital I realized that I just may have the choice of
going back to California 13 months early.
I was sick enough to request that…… but I didn’t. Keith and I talked and we came to realize
that we really didn’t want to go home early.
Do we miss our town, our children, and our grandchildren? Absolutely.
Do we want to stay and finish what we are doing here? Absolutely.
I think that perspective change will carry me for a long time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As
news spread of my sickness, Keith and I were amazed at what a presence social
media has become! It was not just my
family praying for me, it was past missionaries, parents of missionaries,
websites dedicated to missionary moms and past school buddies. Friends of my children knew what was going on
everywhere from North Carolina to Texas to Washington, and California. My son’s boss joined in the prayers as did
coworkers. Quickly many temples and
families knew my name. That is a
humbling experience! What faith so many
have.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Because
I am the “wife” of a mission president, word went to Salt Lake City quickly
also. Doctors from Salt Lake called and
monitored my progress. A cardiologist
from the states but now serving in South America is still checking. Our area medical authority, Dr. Heder, came
to the hospital several times. My name
was added to the Quorum of the Twelve’s prayer roll. (I didn’t even know they
had one.)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As
I lay there so sick, I sometimes wondered what all the fuss was about. Poor Keith slept on the room’s couch for 7
nights. I never saw him cry but knew he
was when he wasn’t by me. My children
were in close contact and I just hoped it wasn’t being too hard on them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It
is hard to sum it all up. I can say that
I’m glad to be alive. I’m glad to still
be in Mexico. I know there is a God who
lives and loves us dearly. I have been
deeply touched by the generosity of so many – so many who could not be by my
bedside, but could turn to a God they loved, and ask for a special blessing for
me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
don’t think I want to go through that again.
Wonder if that can be my “once in a lifetime” experience?<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-64648587576613195332016-04-23T08:58:00.001-07:002016-04-23T08:58:21.817-07:00The hand of God<div class="MsoNormal">
April
23, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
often feel the hand of God in our life.
This calling would be impossible without it. That truth was reaffirmed last night.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keith
put his phone on the nightstand next to the bed. Although it was on “vibrate”, it will usually
wake me up. Last night it didn’t. It is always heart wrenching when you awake
and see 32 calls from the same number during the night. With dread you call and find out what
emergency happened while you were sleeping.
Last night the calls were from Revolution. Revolution is in Los Reyes and some distance
away. Sometimes it takes 2 hours to
drive there, totally depending on traffic.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
C. is allergic to penicillin. He knows
that. When he went to the clinic for
antibiotics, they were informed of that.
However his reaction came from a different strain of medicine last
night. As soon as he started to
experience difficulty breathing, the four Elders called us with no reply. However, they didn’t stop there, prayers were
offered. Elder C. was alert enough to take
Benadryl and call for an ambulance. It
probably saved his life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
How
thankful we are this morning for a loving Heavenly Father and his son Jesus
Christ, who could help when we couldn’t.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-53653544616665334962016-04-18T19:55:00.000-07:002016-04-18T20:24:34.044-07:00Lost in translation<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder Munoz is from Mexico. However, he arrived with an excellent foundation in English which makes talking to him much easier for me!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We brought Elder Munoz to the house last night. He is
the companion of an Elder who is hospitalized. Even in the hospital, we keep 2 missionaries together. We don’t like to
keep companions of those who are ill and in the hospital for too long because it is boring. So last night we brought in someone else to replace Munoz and he came to our house to sleep and be ready to start missionary work the next morning.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder Munoz arrived hungry. It was 9:30 at night and
we decided to scramble some eggs for him. Keith got them in the pan starting to cook when the phone
rang. Keith ran to get the phone and told Elder Munoz to watch the eggs.<u5:p></u5:p><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the phone call Keith went back to the kitchen.
There was Elder Munoz being totally obedient and “watching” the eggs.
They had now formed a solid pie like piece, totally black on the sides and bottom. <u5:p></u5:p><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“watch” does not equate to “scramble.”<u5:p></u5:p><o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-85455473640993872672016-04-12T17:29:00.004-07:002016-04-12T17:29:41.935-07:00Surprise of the Century!<div class="MsoNormal">
April
12, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I
am getting old – which has never bothered me much. I don’t mind my gray hair or my skin that
sags a little more. I do mind that my
body gets more tired and my “get up and go” seems to have “got up and gone” at
times.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyway,
the monumental 65<sup>th</sup> birthday came this month. Since I had already retired and started to
collect Social Security, the only fanfare was going to be signing up for
Medicare. Whoopee!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However,
my children had a plan that I later found out started clear last fall. Quietly, and secretly, they planned a trip to
Mexico City. This was going to be one of
those trips for “our children” only. All
19 grandchildren, and spouses, would be left behind to keep “life rolling.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They
arrived on the 30<sup>th</sup> of March.
The Mecham’s, our neighbors who are serving in the South Mission, were
part of the plan. They picked up all
five kids at the airport and brought them to our office. We were out in the field installing Fire/Carbon
Monoxide detectors totally unaware.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Nebeker called us and told us we had a visitor at the office. Supposedly it was a former missionary coming
back to say “Hello”. The missionary wanted
to surprise us so he wouldn’t tell us who it was. Keith: “Really, we are 90 minutes away, can
it wait for later in the day?” Elder
Nebeker said the missionary was on a time schedule – “Can you come now?” Under my breath I said, “Hope this is worth
it…..”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What
a shock when we walked into the office and were greeted by our five grown
children. They had already had a great
time together meeting in Texas the night before. They had on purple T shirts with funny
sayings. They had been eating and
laughing for a day. And now they were
here. Keith screamed and I cried. Mecham’s and Nebeker’s recorded the
historical “surprise of the century.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
spent 4 days laughing, eating, and shopping. It was beyond great. How I love these children – and those
wonderful spouses left home to care for precious grandchildren. Family is just the best!<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-70057324205799503222016-04-10T07:52:00.002-07:002016-04-10T07:52:27.597-07:00Elder Hernandez<div class="MsoNormal">
April
10, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Hernandez returned to the Dominican Republic the other day. He had completed a full time mission and returned
with honor. He was closing in on 29
years old, so we wondered about “his story.”
He shared a little before he went home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As
I sat with him in the office where he would spend his last “mission” night in
Mexico, he picked up the guitar and started to play. It was very obvious that he had spent many
hours with the instrument, and he immediately brought it to life with rhythm
and song. When Elder Hernandez was 13,
he and his divorced mother joined the church. After chancing his life to join
the church, he fell back into some old behaviors and moved away from the church
teachings. With the help of a loving
mother, and good friends, he slowly felt the pull to return to church when he
was in his mid-twenties. He started
preparations for a mission. Most
missionaries come in their late teens, or early twenties. This was not his course.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Being
a musician, he had spent time writing music. As the mission approached, he had
a hard choice to make. A music producer
showed great interest in a song he had written.
He was offered a goodly sum of money – enough money that he could
purchase his mother a home. However,
along with the money a contract was required.
Accepting it would mean he would go to work for the producer and not go
on a mission.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even
now, 2 years later, he did not regret his decision. And now with a successful mission behind him, Heavenly
Father will guide his footsteps to his new path.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-44256369227913502992016-04-10T07:36:00.004-07:002016-04-10T07:36:32.642-07:00US Embassy<div class="MsoNormal">
April
10, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
VISAs
for Mexican missionaries who are called to serve in the United States or other
foreign countries, often take many months.
The VISAs to these countries do not seem to follow any schedule. It is hard to predict how long they may
take. Therefore the church has started
to send “temporary” Mexico born missionaries to the missions in Mexico. They serve with us until the VISA has
arrived. Temporary missionaries who will
be speaking Spanish in these foreign countries often go to the 3 week Mission
Training Center (MTC) located here in Mexico City. If they will be speaking English, they arrive
to us without any training and come straight from home. Their future training will be in the MTC in
the foreign countries they are assigned to, once the VISA has arrived. Our mission currently has 7 temporary
missionaries.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Vargas arrived here 8 weeks ago. He is assigned to the Utah St. George mission
and was waiting for his VISA. He did not
go to the Mexico City MTC. His parents
brought him to the mission office, hugged and kissed him, and bid him
farewell. He is wonderful and has loved
being here in our mission. We received
notice last week that it was time to take him to the US Embassy to complete his
VISA to the United States.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keith
and I were excited to visit the US Embassy.
Having heard of embassies all my life, I pictured how it would be. In my mind I would find many Americans. We would share our stories of what had
brought us to Mexico. Warm greetings
with officials and laughs would be exchanged.
I didn’t expect punch and cookies, but that would be nice also!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well….high
fences, guards with automatic weapons, and long lines greeted us instead. At least there was an American flag flowing
in the breeze. Elder Vargas was the only
one admitted, not even his companion Elder Call got to enter. Circling the outside were hundreds of people
anxiously waiting for their loved ones inside.
We would occasionally see someone come out from the enclosed
edifice. The only pleasant part was the
Yogurt Berry Frappuccino purchased from the Starbucks around the corner. We bought 8 of them for all the missionaries
waiting outside while their companions were escorted behind the walls.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Vargas exited about 90 minutes later.
With a big smile, and pretty good English, he announced he was “going to
Utah.” We were so happy for him, and so
sad for us! We laughed on the way home
about the cultural shock he was about to face…Mexico City to St. George, Utah….hummmm<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-37280725116917608602016-03-03T17:41:00.000-08:002016-03-03T17:41:04.628-08:00We have a Senior Couple!!<div class="MsoNormal">
March
3, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
have a Senior Couple! It is impossible
to put enough excitement into those words!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My
daughter Sara lives in North Carolina. She is the Young Women’s President in her ward
and her Laurel advisor is Shannon. They
are good friends. When Shannon’s
parents, who live in Southern California, started to talk about going on a mission,
Shannon and Sara put their heads together.
Why not set these parents up on an 18 month double date? If Sara and Shannon got along so well, surely
their parents would also!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How
blessed we feel! We have support. With approximately 170-180 missionaries, we
are now 45:1 and not 90:1! We have someone
else on this “Boy Scout” 3 year overnight experience!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m
not saying it’s the Nebeker’s fault or anything like that….but since they
arrived about 4 weeks ago, we have been living the “crazies!” We have been on a frantic run with hospital
needs, VISA visits to consulates, a Pope visit that totally clogged the city’s
traffic, and various other semi-emergencies.
We haven’t stopped, and the Nebekers have not either. Along with that, we have even been having our
office “O” boys (Elder’s Olson and Orchard) filling in when all four of us are
in different locations. (Side note: Both
Olson and Orchard have “served” time in the hospital this last month to add to the story) I guess
Heavenly Father knew the coming months would be like this, and he blessed us
with the Nebekers!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are
Senior couples needed in a mission? Do I
love chocolate? Am I going too fast for
an almost 65 year old woman? Is the sky
blue? “Thank you” goes to the Nebekers
for coming. What in the world would we
have done during this last month without you two???<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5890108806457148697.post-66667888053651480722016-02-29T15:33:00.001-08:002016-02-29T16:48:26.180-08:00Giving thanks<div class="MsoNormal">
February
29, 2016<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We
have two of the finest young men as assistants.
I can’t imagine two finer – I think the Lord knew our need for them and
blessed us to have them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder
Camarillo related this to us this morning during our weekly meeting. Last week, he and Elder Labra received a
referral for a gentleman who might be interested in the gospel of Jesus
Christ. They were told that this man had
a daughter living in the United States that had joined the Mormon Church. He also had other daughters living elsewhere
who were active in other religions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Off
to find the gentleman – and the address was correct. This gentleman invited them in and told them
that he would listen. And timed
perfectly by the Lord, the phone rang.
His daughter from the United States was calling. Dad told her that the missionaries were
sitting in his house at that very moment and he was going to listen to
them. She started to cry and asked to
speak to Elder Camarillo.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank
you for serving a mission” she said. Elder
Camarillo told us how he felt in that moment.
He said he had never been thanked for serving a mission. He and Elder Labra cried with this daughter
and Dad, and made appointments to return.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes
I wonder if I see the folly of 18-21 year olds before I see their dedicated service. I will try harder in the future to give my
thanks personally to each missionary and acknowledge their sacrifice.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03051104979746309782noreply@blogger.com0