Hey all!
Well, it's been an exciting week. TWO BAPTISMS!!! One was a miracle. Just a downright miracle. If I get the time, I'll send pictures. :)
So, Thursday evening, we go to teach Elizabeth. She's at the door when she sees us drive up, and she's bouncing up and down, super excited. Me and Sister Villatoro just kinda look at each other, a little bit baffled by her reaction. When we get in her house, we notice a card for us, but she told us we can't open it until we get home. I'm immediately a little bit suspicious about what's in that card. We start teaching her - about the sacrament - and when I start saying how, after we're baptized, when we take the sacrament, it can be like being baptized every single week, she gets this sparkle in her eyes and she laughs. We ask her why she laughed and she was like, "Oh...nothing." I grew even more suspicious of what was in that card, and asked her if we could open it when we got to the car, instead of home, and she said yes.
When the lesson was over, and we opened the card, it was the BEST! This is what it said. "I drew you guys a picture of a horse. God has answered my prayers. I want to get baptized! And I want it to happen before Sister Villatoro leaves." So, we run back to the house, plan for her interview for the next day, plan for her baptism for the day after that, and in two days, threw together a baptism. It truly was an AMAZING experience. We've been praying that Elizabeth would receive her answer, and I know Sister V was expecting her to receive her answer after she left. It was a mission miracle! Sister V gets to go home with two baptisms her last weekend, and I get to end my first transfer with 4 baptisms under my belt. Crazy stuff!!
But, seriously. Elizabeth has been such a joy to teach. I have not met a 10 year old girl like her. She's SO strong, and so close to the spirit. She loves the Gospel, and I know she's going to do amazing things. She's already been such a strength and a light to her family. I can't wait to see what she does now that she has the gift of the holy ghost with her! Mom, Dad, her and her family are DEFINTELY people we need to see when we tour the mission. :)
Haha, honestly, I don't know what else to talk about. That was the highlight of everything! It's been a hard week, and I know the next couple of weeks are going to be hard. I'm taking the lead of the area with my companion - I'm not training, so no worries there! - but, our teaching pool has shrunk, and we have gotten very few new in the past couple of weeks. It's going to be a struggle. At the moment, I'm not freaking out, but I have been on and off the past few days. I know things will work out, and I'll be privy to miracles this transfer, because of the difficulty...but I'll have to work really, really hard.
Oh! Mom mentioned the fireside in her email! Did I tell you guys about that? I can't remember. But, it's cool. I was able to accompany two songs. I talked to Sister Weaver after emailing last week, and thanked her for giving me the opportunity to play - it was something I prayed about before going on my mission, that I'd have the opportunity to use my musical talents! - and she told me I'd probably have many, many more opportunities. There are two more firesides and I'll for sure be going to both of them, even though they're out of my zone. I'm really excited, though, of course, it does take time away from working, which can be a bit stressful. But it's all worth it, because these firesides get the members pumped up for missionary work, and investigators who come are able to feel the spirit SO strongly. It's a really neat experience. I'm SO grateful for my musical abilities. There are only a handful of piano players in the mission, and Sister Weaver hand picks us to play certain songs. It'll be a fun time!
Anyways...I don't have much else to say! I hope ya'll remember my birthday! Do something for the missionaries! Help them out in someway, and then let me know what you did! Best birthday present EVER!! Love you all! Thanks for your support and all you do for me out here. Till next week!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Monday, May 20, 2013
Letter from May 20th, 2013
This past week was SO good! Really hard, but good. Things are beginning to click and fall into place. There are some solid people we're teaching - the problem is, they're really slow movers. They need something to kick-start them, and we haven't been able to figure out just what that is! We have one baptism for the 26th, which will be exciting! We've also kind of hit a block with finding new investigators. We found two AMAZING new investigators, thanks to a referral from the Budges - the one whose place I Skyped at last week - and I'm really excited to teach them. But, we haven't had any success finding any others, which is something that is kind of foreign to Sister Villatoro.
Honestly...I can't remember much from this last week that happened before Friday. Friday was a big day. A big, crazy, hard - but still FUN! - day. We did another exchange. Except this time, I stayed in Shelton, and had to kind of take the lead. It was SUPER intimidating, but my companion was AWESOME. Her name is Sister Packard. She's actually younger than me, but she's been out 2 transfers longer than me - and Sister Villatoro trained her as well. She's this weird mix of Sarah Merkley, Lisa, and Sister Ferrell. She looks like she could be a Merkley! It was super weird! And then, she talks like Lisa, and has similar facial expressions, and...she's a wee bit ditsy...but denies it...just like Lisa!! But, what impressed me most was that she was a missionary like Sister Ferrell. It's honestly the highest compliment I can give another missionary. She has that same excitement and passion for the Gospel, as well as an incredible love and sincerity. If Sister Packard hadn't been my companion for this exchange, I probably would have just been a puddle of Sister Root.
Imagine everything that could go wrong. It probably went wrong - except our car didn't break down! Sister Villatoro kept the phone AND the church keys. So we were phoneless. And didn't have keys to the church, and we had an appointment and the church (which fell through anyway...). All but two of the things we had planned fell through, as well as the backups, so I was scrambling, trying to figure out what we should do and where we should go. It was really, really hard. We locked the keys in the house (that one was Sister Packard's fault. She was nice enough to drive the entire time we were together.) but that was more hilarious than stressful. Sister Packard just climbed a neighbor's ladder to our open second story window. It was pretty funny, and a good way to relieve some of the tension inside of me. Sister Packard was able to teach me a lot within 24 hours, things that I want to study more and apply to myself. She is an excellent missionary. I've said that I have yet to find a missionary that is as good as Sister Ferrell. Sister Packard, in a month or two, just might reach Sister Ferrell Standard. I'm excited to see it happen, and I honestly pray I'll get to work with her again.
I also had the wonderful opportunity to use my musical talents, and there are going to be SO many opportunities to use them! It's a huge blessing, albeit, a little bit stressful. Sister Weaver does these mission firesides, to kind of get the members in the mission boundaries excited for missionary work. She's been doing them for about a year, and we had one last night. So, she called me up a week ago and asked, "Sister Root, I heard you sing! Would you like to sing for us?" Of course, I was really excited and said yes! And then she asked, "I know you play the piano as well. Would you like to play the piano for a few of the special numbers?" And again, I said yes! It was awesome! I only sang in the group pieces, but I was able to play the piano for 2 special numbers. It truly was a joy. And, there are only 2 other piano players in the mission, and one leaves in a week, and the other leaves next transfer. So I'll have LOTS of opportunity to play the piano! It's a huge blessing, because this was something I was praying for. Heavenly Father answers prayers, you guys! :)
It's hard to imagine that tomorrow I'll have been in Washington for 5 weeks. Sometimes it feels like I just got here, and others times it feels like I've been here for forever. It's been nearly 7 weeks since I got onto that plane, heading for Provo. I've learned SO much already. I feel the spirit so much greater than I ever have before, and I have more confidence - and it's confidence, this time, not pride - in the fact that I have the spirit around me than I ever have before. I feel power in the words I say when I testify of truths.
I have never prayed more often, or more sincerely, or more fervently than I have in the past month and a half. It's funny, because, in the past couple of weeks, the sisters I've worked with always comment on my prayers. Sister V loves having me pray on doorsteps. In the past, I've always felt my prayers were...maybe not quite as heartfelt or sincere as they should have been. But, as I pray for the people we come in contact with, I've felt a shift in those prayers.
Sister Packard said she learned the importance of being "sober" from me. She is one goofy sister. I love it! Because I could be a goofy 19 year old with her, as well. I had a lot of fun with her. And she said that she notice that I was sober, and that brought about a spirit around me. It's something that I've been worried about, being too sober. But, in that exchange with her, I was able to experience that wonderful balance of goofing around and having a great time, while holding onto that quiet dignity we are supposed to have as missionaries, and being sober about the Gospel - not necessarily...boring or too serious about the Gospel, but sober. You can laugh and have fun and be excited about it! But you must also be sober.
Don't worry about me eating, the members are taking care of us! Sister Ferrell promised me I'd get fed, because of how many times I fed the sisters in Flag. Her promise was one of power, because I have seen it! We don't get fed everyday, because sometimes we just don't have time! (Sister Villatoro is a very hard worker, and sometimes forgets to leave time for meals. I don't begrudge her for it, because she just wants to be sure we aren't wasting any time, but it's definitely something I'm going to make sure we have time for after this!) But the members take care of us. We don't actually make food, but I'll throw stuff in the microwave. I'm about to stock up on some frozen pizzas today...haha!
This work is hard, but SO worth it! Shelton is beautiful, full of trees. It definitely reminds me of Flagstaff. Speaking of which, I've been thinking a lot about my Flagstaff peeps! Shout out to them! You've been on my mind lately. Hope finals treated you well, and that institute is still bomb! Keep up the missionary efforts there, help out those sister missionaries! They need you! and FEED THEM!!! Haha! By the way...Hanna Swick is the only one who's written me. Ya'll are lame!! Haha just kidding. But, seriously. Even if you aren't writing me, make sure you're writing a missionary! You have no idea what those letters can do!
I love you all! Thanks for your love and your support! I'm so grateful for all you do for me! Keep a positive attitude about life - I can say that because that's what I'M working on right now! :) Keep in mind my birthday in 8 days. If you want to give me something, just do something for the missionaries in your area, and tell me about it!
Oh, just so you know, I'll be emailing next TUESDAY, not Monday. Library isn't open on Memorial day. :) Lots of love!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Honestly...I can't remember much from this last week that happened before Friday. Friday was a big day. A big, crazy, hard - but still FUN! - day. We did another exchange. Except this time, I stayed in Shelton, and had to kind of take the lead. It was SUPER intimidating, but my companion was AWESOME. Her name is Sister Packard. She's actually younger than me, but she's been out 2 transfers longer than me - and Sister Villatoro trained her as well. She's this weird mix of Sarah Merkley, Lisa, and Sister Ferrell. She looks like she could be a Merkley! It was super weird! And then, she talks like Lisa, and has similar facial expressions, and...she's a wee bit ditsy...but denies it...just like Lisa!! But, what impressed me most was that she was a missionary like Sister Ferrell. It's honestly the highest compliment I can give another missionary. She has that same excitement and passion for the Gospel, as well as an incredible love and sincerity. If Sister Packard hadn't been my companion for this exchange, I probably would have just been a puddle of Sister Root.
Imagine everything that could go wrong. It probably went wrong - except our car didn't break down! Sister Villatoro kept the phone AND the church keys. So we were phoneless. And didn't have keys to the church, and we had an appointment and the church (which fell through anyway...). All but two of the things we had planned fell through, as well as the backups, so I was scrambling, trying to figure out what we should do and where we should go. It was really, really hard. We locked the keys in the house (that one was Sister Packard's fault. She was nice enough to drive the entire time we were together.) but that was more hilarious than stressful. Sister Packard just climbed a neighbor's ladder to our open second story window. It was pretty funny, and a good way to relieve some of the tension inside of me. Sister Packard was able to teach me a lot within 24 hours, things that I want to study more and apply to myself. She is an excellent missionary. I've said that I have yet to find a missionary that is as good as Sister Ferrell. Sister Packard, in a month or two, just might reach Sister Ferrell Standard. I'm excited to see it happen, and I honestly pray I'll get to work with her again.
I also had the wonderful opportunity to use my musical talents, and there are going to be SO many opportunities to use them! It's a huge blessing, albeit, a little bit stressful. Sister Weaver does these mission firesides, to kind of get the members in the mission boundaries excited for missionary work. She's been doing them for about a year, and we had one last night. So, she called me up a week ago and asked, "Sister Root, I heard you sing! Would you like to sing for us?" Of course, I was really excited and said yes! And then she asked, "I know you play the piano as well. Would you like to play the piano for a few of the special numbers?" And again, I said yes! It was awesome! I only sang in the group pieces, but I was able to play the piano for 2 special numbers. It truly was a joy. And, there are only 2 other piano players in the mission, and one leaves in a week, and the other leaves next transfer. So I'll have LOTS of opportunity to play the piano! It's a huge blessing, because this was something I was praying for. Heavenly Father answers prayers, you guys! :)
It's hard to imagine that tomorrow I'll have been in Washington for 5 weeks. Sometimes it feels like I just got here, and others times it feels like I've been here for forever. It's been nearly 7 weeks since I got onto that plane, heading for Provo. I've learned SO much already. I feel the spirit so much greater than I ever have before, and I have more confidence - and it's confidence, this time, not pride - in the fact that I have the spirit around me than I ever have before. I feel power in the words I say when I testify of truths.
I have never prayed more often, or more sincerely, or more fervently than I have in the past month and a half. It's funny, because, in the past couple of weeks, the sisters I've worked with always comment on my prayers. Sister V loves having me pray on doorsteps. In the past, I've always felt my prayers were...maybe not quite as heartfelt or sincere as they should have been. But, as I pray for the people we come in contact with, I've felt a shift in those prayers.
Sister Packard said she learned the importance of being "sober" from me. She is one goofy sister. I love it! Because I could be a goofy 19 year old with her, as well. I had a lot of fun with her. And she said that she notice that I was sober, and that brought about a spirit around me. It's something that I've been worried about, being too sober. But, in that exchange with her, I was able to experience that wonderful balance of goofing around and having a great time, while holding onto that quiet dignity we are supposed to have as missionaries, and being sober about the Gospel - not necessarily...boring or too serious about the Gospel, but sober. You can laugh and have fun and be excited about it! But you must also be sober.
Don't worry about me eating, the members are taking care of us! Sister Ferrell promised me I'd get fed, because of how many times I fed the sisters in Flag. Her promise was one of power, because I have seen it! We don't get fed everyday, because sometimes we just don't have time! (Sister Villatoro is a very hard worker, and sometimes forgets to leave time for meals. I don't begrudge her for it, because she just wants to be sure we aren't wasting any time, but it's definitely something I'm going to make sure we have time for after this!) But the members take care of us. We don't actually make food, but I'll throw stuff in the microwave. I'm about to stock up on some frozen pizzas today...haha!
This work is hard, but SO worth it! Shelton is beautiful, full of trees. It definitely reminds me of Flagstaff. Speaking of which, I've been thinking a lot about my Flagstaff peeps! Shout out to them! You've been on my mind lately. Hope finals treated you well, and that institute is still bomb! Keep up the missionary efforts there, help out those sister missionaries! They need you! and FEED THEM!!! Haha! By the way...Hanna Swick is the only one who's written me. Ya'll are lame!! Haha just kidding. But, seriously. Even if you aren't writing me, make sure you're writing a missionary! You have no idea what those letters can do!
I love you all! Thanks for your love and your support! I'm so grateful for all you do for me! Keep a positive attitude about life - I can say that because that's what I'M working on right now! :) Keep in mind my birthday in 8 days. If you want to give me something, just do something for the missionaries in your area, and tell me about it!
Oh, just so you know, I'll be emailing next TUESDAY, not Monday. Library isn't open on Memorial day. :) Lots of love!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Monday, May 13, 2013
Letter from May 13th, 2013
Ok, so 40 minutes to talk to family? Definitely not enough! It was a little bit difficult to get my mind back focused into the work, last night, but after eating dinner and talking with the Budge family a bit - he's in the bishopric, by the way. They are a WONDERFUL family. Very strong in the Gospel. They had a good feel in their home. I liked Skyping there. - I was able to get my mind and focus back where it needed to be.
So, Chris Sherwood was baptized on Saturday! It was SO good to see! He was incredibly happy, and I couldn't help but feel joy at the fact that he had come to this decision. He has made great progress in the past month or so, and, despite some of his trials, he has grown in his faith and has truly been born of God. It's been wonderful to teach him. I can't wait to see him get the Priesthood and to teach him about the temple! He's going to love it!!
Elizabeth, the 10 year old girl, still hasn't decided if she's getting baptized. It's trying my and Sister Villatoro's patience. (Though mostly Sis. V. She really wants to see everyone baptized before she goes home. I have to keep reminding her it's in the Lord's time and she always gives this big sigh and is like, "I know!") But, I know she'll get baptized for sure. She's a solid girl. A part of me wonders if this waiting is for her mom. I really, REALLY want to see her mom baptized. Or at least to start teaching her mom. I seriously love going into that home. Elizabeth is my favorite person to teach, because her parents are so welcoming and loving. And her mom HAS noticed a difference in Elizabeth. Anyways, Elizabeth is still praying for an answer - I was worried that maybe she didn't know how to receive an answer. I don't think I understood when I was 10. But when I talked to her about it, she explained how she came to know that The Book of Mormon is true and that Joseph Smith was a true prophet, and I instantly lost all worry. She is an incredible little girl who understands much of how the Lord works. That's why I'm not worried about her getting baptized. It'll happen. She just needs to keep asking the Lord, and He'll answer in His own due time.
We HAD two others on date this week...but they fell off-date yesterday, because neither of them came to church. One of them, Mitchell, I'm a little concerned about. He says he wants to get baptized, but every time we tried to meet with him this week, he wasn't there. He hasn't come to church at all. He doesn't seem to be DOING. He's lacking his conversion, and I'm not quite sure how to address that. I don't know exactly what his need is, what will motivate him...so I'm working on that.
Janie, the other woman who was on date, is somewhat of a miracle. Sister Villatoro had tracted into her before, and she just brushed her off. We tracted into her again, and she was like, "Oh...sure, come over again. We'll talk a bit." And when we did visit, it seemed more like she just wanted someone to talk to. But then, the next time we visited, she was completely open to EVERYTHING. Then, on Friday, when we had an exchange - I was in Belfair - she was taught the Plan of Salvation, and she was like, "Yes! This is great!" and committed to be baptized. She then went to Chris's baptism and said she was greatly moved by the spirit. She has the conviction, and she's willing to make some changes. We just need to make sure she comes to church, now! I'm not too worried, though. She's solid, and we'll get her to church.
We have a few others we're teaching, that I'm pretty confident will get baptized...but I think these will take a little bit longer. Sister V is used to 2 to 3 week baptisms, so it's killing her. Last night, President Weaver said that Elder Holland made the statement that the average baptism takes 8 to 9 weeks. Sister Villatoro thought that was incredible. she's had the incredible blessing of just having things work out the past 17 months. So, this transfer, with things falling through, and people falling-off date, and people not getting baptized (well...we've had two. That's pretty dang good...) has been hard on her. Our numbers were a little bit low this week - for her. They were still good numbers! - and she gets frustrated by that. But, we're working hard! I know we can improve those numbers, because we can always improve, but I'm trying not to get down because of them, because we are working hard!
We're doing another exchange this week, and I think I'm going to be with one of the sisters Sister V trained. She's excited for me, and from what I've seen from this sister, I think it'll be another fun time. I've really enjoyed these exchanges. I've seen miracles each time - the companion I've been with has been able to put someone on-date both times - and it's neat to see how other missionaries work. I think it's been good for me, as a new missionary. It helps to widen my view.
Well, all is going well..ish. Haha, I'm getting the hang of it! It's hard stuff. I know I say that all the time, but it is! But, it's worth it, because not only am I learning things about myself, but I'm learning about my Savior. this is only strengthening my relationship with Him, and thereby, strengthening me. It's increasing my desire to be an instrument in His hands. Because, as a missionary, that is the ONLY way to see lives change: by being an instrument in the Lord's hands. Change will NEVER happen because of me; it will be because of the spirit. I just need to make sure I'm an effective instrument! One that, preferably, plays beautiful music!
I'm going to try to figure things out with my foot this week. I'll try inserts in all of my shoes, to see if that helps. If not...orthodics? I don't know...I don't want to do that because of money, but if my feet are going to prevent me from doing the work I need to, I may have to! I'll talk to President about it this week - we have interviews tomorrow.
I love you all! It was wonderful getting to talk to some of you yesterday. The kids are getting big! They legitimately look different from just a month and a half ago! Let me know how you all are doing. And catch the wave! Find out some way you can help the missionaries in the ward! My birthday is in a couple of weeks. Doing something for the missionaries would be the best birthday present ever! :) Love you!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
So, Chris Sherwood was baptized on Saturday! It was SO good to see! He was incredibly happy, and I couldn't help but feel joy at the fact that he had come to this decision. He has made great progress in the past month or so, and, despite some of his trials, he has grown in his faith and has truly been born of God. It's been wonderful to teach him. I can't wait to see him get the Priesthood and to teach him about the temple! He's going to love it!!
Elizabeth, the 10 year old girl, still hasn't decided if she's getting baptized. It's trying my and Sister Villatoro's patience. (Though mostly Sis. V. She really wants to see everyone baptized before she goes home. I have to keep reminding her it's in the Lord's time and she always gives this big sigh and is like, "I know!") But, I know she'll get baptized for sure. She's a solid girl. A part of me wonders if this waiting is for her mom. I really, REALLY want to see her mom baptized. Or at least to start teaching her mom. I seriously love going into that home. Elizabeth is my favorite person to teach, because her parents are so welcoming and loving. And her mom HAS noticed a difference in Elizabeth. Anyways, Elizabeth is still praying for an answer - I was worried that maybe she didn't know how to receive an answer. I don't think I understood when I was 10. But when I talked to her about it, she explained how she came to know that The Book of Mormon is true and that Joseph Smith was a true prophet, and I instantly lost all worry. She is an incredible little girl who understands much of how the Lord works. That's why I'm not worried about her getting baptized. It'll happen. She just needs to keep asking the Lord, and He'll answer in His own due time.
We HAD two others on date this week...but they fell off-date yesterday, because neither of them came to church. One of them, Mitchell, I'm a little concerned about. He says he wants to get baptized, but every time we tried to meet with him this week, he wasn't there. He hasn't come to church at all. He doesn't seem to be DOING. He's lacking his conversion, and I'm not quite sure how to address that. I don't know exactly what his need is, what will motivate him...so I'm working on that.
Janie, the other woman who was on date, is somewhat of a miracle. Sister Villatoro had tracted into her before, and she just brushed her off. We tracted into her again, and she was like, "Oh...sure, come over again. We'll talk a bit." And when we did visit, it seemed more like she just wanted someone to talk to. But then, the next time we visited, she was completely open to EVERYTHING. Then, on Friday, when we had an exchange - I was in Belfair - she was taught the Plan of Salvation, and she was like, "Yes! This is great!" and committed to be baptized. She then went to Chris's baptism and said she was greatly moved by the spirit. She has the conviction, and she's willing to make some changes. We just need to make sure she comes to church, now! I'm not too worried, though. She's solid, and we'll get her to church.
We have a few others we're teaching, that I'm pretty confident will get baptized...but I think these will take a little bit longer. Sister V is used to 2 to 3 week baptisms, so it's killing her. Last night, President Weaver said that Elder Holland made the statement that the average baptism takes 8 to 9 weeks. Sister Villatoro thought that was incredible. she's had the incredible blessing of just having things work out the past 17 months. So, this transfer, with things falling through, and people falling-off date, and people not getting baptized (well...we've had two. That's pretty dang good...) has been hard on her. Our numbers were a little bit low this week - for her. They were still good numbers! - and she gets frustrated by that. But, we're working hard! I know we can improve those numbers, because we can always improve, but I'm trying not to get down because of them, because we are working hard!
We're doing another exchange this week, and I think I'm going to be with one of the sisters Sister V trained. She's excited for me, and from what I've seen from this sister, I think it'll be another fun time. I've really enjoyed these exchanges. I've seen miracles each time - the companion I've been with has been able to put someone on-date both times - and it's neat to see how other missionaries work. I think it's been good for me, as a new missionary. It helps to widen my view.
Well, all is going well..ish. Haha, I'm getting the hang of it! It's hard stuff. I know I say that all the time, but it is! But, it's worth it, because not only am I learning things about myself, but I'm learning about my Savior. this is only strengthening my relationship with Him, and thereby, strengthening me. It's increasing my desire to be an instrument in His hands. Because, as a missionary, that is the ONLY way to see lives change: by being an instrument in the Lord's hands. Change will NEVER happen because of me; it will be because of the spirit. I just need to make sure I'm an effective instrument! One that, preferably, plays beautiful music!
I'm going to try to figure things out with my foot this week. I'll try inserts in all of my shoes, to see if that helps. If not...orthodics? I don't know...I don't want to do that because of money, but if my feet are going to prevent me from doing the work I need to, I may have to! I'll talk to President about it this week - we have interviews tomorrow.
I love you all! It was wonderful getting to talk to some of you yesterday. The kids are getting big! They legitimately look different from just a month and a half ago! Let me know how you all are doing. And catch the wave! Find out some way you can help the missionaries in the ward! My birthday is in a couple of weeks. Doing something for the missionaries would be the best birthday present ever! :) Love you!
Sister Beth Ann Root!
Monday, May 6, 2013
Letter from May 6th, 2013
Hey all!
The WA-TAC has actually been super sunny. Yesterday it was actually in the 80s!! Crazy, right?! I have a new respect for the missionaries in Mesa. I have no clue how they do it, because the heat (yes, the heat. Flagstaff corrupted me.) when you're out walking just utterly exhausts you. And the work is exhausting to begin with! Sometimes I can't make it to 10:30, and me and Sister V are in bed by 10. Since yesterday was fast Sunday, it was really, really hard to be out walking - we walked, because of the limitations of our miles. Sister V is doing exchanges (well, the both of us, obviously) because President wants the young missionaries to learn some things from her, so we're going to be driving to all sorts of places in the mission - and I've decided that fast Sunday will always be a driving Sunday. I just can't walk around that much when I'm fasting! I get WAY too light-headed. I felt similar to how I felt when I got my wisdom teeth pulled, and then I almost passed out because I had slept all day and hadn't eaten anything. It wasn't very fun.
We did our first exchange on Friday. It was a BLAST! I went to Tacoma, by The Sound (does Dad know where that is?) and worked with Sister Stuki. She's from Provo, but, luckily, she's one of those awesome Utah Mormons. :) But, really, She was a blast to be with. Honestly, it was the most fun I've had since leaving Flagstaff!! This is only her third transfer, so she said she was really nervous, but she seemed to know what she was doing. I was able to learn a lot from her, and she gave me lots of encouragement and advice. She shared with me some wonderful insights that I'm going to try to take to heart. I told her she would make a wonderful trainer, because of her great compassion, and her obvious ability to decipher needs through the spirit. She was able to address some of the things I needed to hear, without me fully explaining the thoughts inside of my head. Her passion for the Gospel and for learning was absolutely wonderful. I told President that she would make a good trainer, when the times comes, and then requested to be companions with her sometime...don't know if it will happen, but I hope so, because I grew to love her in those 24 hours, and I think if we were companions, a strong and possibly eternal friendship would be created.
I'm adjusting more and more every day. Learning more and more. Saying more and more. We have 2 people on date - Chris is back on date! For this Saturday! It'll follow through, for sure this time! It makes us so happy!! And this 18 year old boy named Mitchell. He just lost a friend a few weeks ago, and has a lot of negative feelings in his heart because of it. I testified to him of the healing power of the Atonement, and that peace, through Christ, was the only thing that could heal those feelings. (How to begin teaching in Preach My Gospel, right there. Good stuff!!) He was like, "yeah, I think it's that peace that I've been looking for." We set up to meet with him, and Sister V and Sister Logan, Sister Stuki's companion, met with him on Friday and put him on date. So much happiness!
We're also teaching this 10 year old girl, Elizabeth. I LOVE going over to her house to teach her. She's such an awesome girl, who is SUPER intelligent - haha sometimes I think she's TOO smart for her own good, when we teach her - and her family is awesome. Her step-dad (well, almost step-dad. He and her mom are getting married in June. I've been invited to the wedding!) is inactive but keeps encouraging her to be baptized. Her mom is absolutely wonderful, and I hope her heart will soften enough so we can start teaching her. Elizabeth, though she says she knows the things we are teaching her are true, is still uncertain if she should be baptized. I know she will be, but me and Sister V sometimes get impatient. But, it's always the Lord's timing! I just hope she'll get baptized soon! She's an awesome girl who strives to obey and apply the things she learns. A wonderful trait to have, especially as a 10 year old girl.
We were able to go to the temple on Wednesday, and that was a wonderful, renewing, and empowering experience. I'm so grateful we were able to go. Afterwards, we had a little devotional, and President and Sister Weavers shared some things. One of the things they shared was about how sin breaks our hearts. Sin and the sorrow of others people's sins. Elder Holland attended mission president meeting that the Weavers were at, and he said that Christ literally died of a broken heart. It made me a little bit sad to think about, but it's true. Much of the sorrow that one encounters on the mission is from people choosing to do things contrary to the Gospel. In an MTC talk by Elder Holland, he states that, since we are in the work of the salvation of souls, it will not be painless for us. In fact, it shouldn't be. We will experience, to some small degree, what Christ felt.
The mission, though it's hard - and quite humbling - is a wonderful experience. I can't wait to talk to some of you on Mother's Day - we can only talk for 40 minutes, so make sure I have plenty of time to talk to Mom!! I know it's Sarah's birthday today. Happy birthday, Sarah!! I love you all. I'm so grateful for all you have had to sacrifice for me to be out here, and I know you'll be blessed. Record those blessings, for me, would you? I want to hear about them, some time!! I love you!
Sister Beth Ann Root
The WA-TAC has actually been super sunny. Yesterday it was actually in the 80s!! Crazy, right?! I have a new respect for the missionaries in Mesa. I have no clue how they do it, because the heat (yes, the heat. Flagstaff corrupted me.) when you're out walking just utterly exhausts you. And the work is exhausting to begin with! Sometimes I can't make it to 10:30, and me and Sister V are in bed by 10. Since yesterday was fast Sunday, it was really, really hard to be out walking - we walked, because of the limitations of our miles. Sister V is doing exchanges (well, the both of us, obviously) because President wants the young missionaries to learn some things from her, so we're going to be driving to all sorts of places in the mission - and I've decided that fast Sunday will always be a driving Sunday. I just can't walk around that much when I'm fasting! I get WAY too light-headed. I felt similar to how I felt when I got my wisdom teeth pulled, and then I almost passed out because I had slept all day and hadn't eaten anything. It wasn't very fun.
We did our first exchange on Friday. It was a BLAST! I went to Tacoma, by The Sound (does Dad know where that is?) and worked with Sister Stuki. She's from Provo, but, luckily, she's one of those awesome Utah Mormons. :) But, really, She was a blast to be with. Honestly, it was the most fun I've had since leaving Flagstaff!! This is only her third transfer, so she said she was really nervous, but she seemed to know what she was doing. I was able to learn a lot from her, and she gave me lots of encouragement and advice. She shared with me some wonderful insights that I'm going to try to take to heart. I told her she would make a wonderful trainer, because of her great compassion, and her obvious ability to decipher needs through the spirit. She was able to address some of the things I needed to hear, without me fully explaining the thoughts inside of my head. Her passion for the Gospel and for learning was absolutely wonderful. I told President that she would make a good trainer, when the times comes, and then requested to be companions with her sometime...don't know if it will happen, but I hope so, because I grew to love her in those 24 hours, and I think if we were companions, a strong and possibly eternal friendship would be created.
I'm adjusting more and more every day. Learning more and more. Saying more and more. We have 2 people on date - Chris is back on date! For this Saturday! It'll follow through, for sure this time! It makes us so happy!! And this 18 year old boy named Mitchell. He just lost a friend a few weeks ago, and has a lot of negative feelings in his heart because of it. I testified to him of the healing power of the Atonement, and that peace, through Christ, was the only thing that could heal those feelings. (How to begin teaching in Preach My Gospel, right there. Good stuff!!) He was like, "yeah, I think it's that peace that I've been looking for." We set up to meet with him, and Sister V and Sister Logan, Sister Stuki's companion, met with him on Friday and put him on date. So much happiness!
We're also teaching this 10 year old girl, Elizabeth. I LOVE going over to her house to teach her. She's such an awesome girl, who is SUPER intelligent - haha sometimes I think she's TOO smart for her own good, when we teach her - and her family is awesome. Her step-dad (well, almost step-dad. He and her mom are getting married in June. I've been invited to the wedding!) is inactive but keeps encouraging her to be baptized. Her mom is absolutely wonderful, and I hope her heart will soften enough so we can start teaching her. Elizabeth, though she says she knows the things we are teaching her are true, is still uncertain if she should be baptized. I know she will be, but me and Sister V sometimes get impatient. But, it's always the Lord's timing! I just hope she'll get baptized soon! She's an awesome girl who strives to obey and apply the things she learns. A wonderful trait to have, especially as a 10 year old girl.
We were able to go to the temple on Wednesday, and that was a wonderful, renewing, and empowering experience. I'm so grateful we were able to go. Afterwards, we had a little devotional, and President and Sister Weavers shared some things. One of the things they shared was about how sin breaks our hearts. Sin and the sorrow of others people's sins. Elder Holland attended mission president meeting that the Weavers were at, and he said that Christ literally died of a broken heart. It made me a little bit sad to think about, but it's true. Much of the sorrow that one encounters on the mission is from people choosing to do things contrary to the Gospel. In an MTC talk by Elder Holland, he states that, since we are in the work of the salvation of souls, it will not be painless for us. In fact, it shouldn't be. We will experience, to some small degree, what Christ felt.
The mission, though it's hard - and quite humbling - is a wonderful experience. I can't wait to talk to some of you on Mother's Day - we can only talk for 40 minutes, so make sure I have plenty of time to talk to Mom!! I know it's Sarah's birthday today. Happy birthday, Sarah!! I love you all. I'm so grateful for all you have had to sacrifice for me to be out here, and I know you'll be blessed. Record those blessings, for me, would you? I want to hear about them, some time!! I love you!
Sister Beth Ann Root