Sunday, December 16, 2018

Ho Ho Ho

I'm doing pretty good, as you can tell...

Merry Christmas everyone!  Love Elder West



Sunday, December 9, 2018

Nov 26th -Choose to Stay

I've had a good run with Elder Pugmire, but sadly he has to leave. He'll be missed, but he'll do great things in Mexico serving the remainder of his mission in TorreΓ³n. 

But guess what that means for me and Elder Judi... we are staying together for another transfer. Yay! Another sad departure I've learned of this past week, is of my first "son" Elder Remus. I was training Elder Remus over a year ago, about the same time last year. He has served well, but I guess he has decided that his talents are better served back home.  There is obviously more to it, but I hope he is well. 

"She said I don't spend time like I really should. She said she don't know me, anymore. I think she hates me deep down I know she does, she wants to erase me." - Scott Mescudi

These song lyrics have been stuck in my head for such a long time! As I recall them today, it reminds me of going home after the mission. I know I've changed a lot, and its kinda scary thinking about going back and talking to people and friends I used to know. Hopefully they'll still like me.... haha.


Elder West


Nov 5th - PUG and my swing is back

"And now remember, remember, my brethren, that whosoever perisheth, perisheth unto himself; and whosoever doeth iniquity, doeth it unto himself; for behold, ye are free; ye are permitted to act for yourselves; for behold, God hath given unto you a knowledge and he hath made you free." - Helaman 14:30

It's been a great week this week. First of all, we got Elder Pugmire back with us! The trio is back at it again! He's been recovering from his tonsillectomy fairly well. We got news that he will indeed be leaving us at the end of the transfer to head to his original assignment in Mexico, but we are glad to keep him for the three more weeks that we can! 

On Monday we went to a members home in another Ward and they have this sweet batting cage! I was able to pitch baseballs to some missionaries and take some batting practice of my own. I hit a lot better than I thought I would (G-Money has still got it 😘). They served us lunch and we had an absolute blast. 

On Halloween night President Browning let missionaries who are serving near the Temple go and do a session in the evening. It was probably a good idea as to not have us tracting door-to-door among trick-or-treaters and get an awkward "OH, I love your Mormon Missionary costumes" at the doorstep (excuse the slang). It was a great night, there were 40 missionaries in the session! 

I'll quickly share a experience we had this week with one of our investigators Katy. She is in her 30's, very vibrant and enthusiastic. She's currently living with her mom who is a native from the Philippines. Katy has had a rough upbringing. Unfortunately due to her tough younger years, she has made some decisions that has resulted in her getting caught up with drugs and alcohol. Her "friends" have only added to her addictions. These decisions have brought pain and darkness into her life. She is still trying to recover from her addictions and is now facing serious trials and turmoil due to her not being willing to change and follow Christ's true gospel. Her demeanor is sullen, her addictions and friends have limited and her ability to choose well for herself. We continue to meet, teach, and pray for her, but it's sad to see this; especially when it can be avoided. 
 
"For behold, if ye have procrastinated the day of your repentance even until death, behold, ye have become subjected to the spirit of the devil, and he doth seal you his; therefore, the Spirit of the Lord hath withdrawn from you, and hath no place in you, and the devil hath all power over you; and this is the final state of the wicked.
And this I know, because the Lord hath said he dwelleth not in unholy temples, but in the hearts of the righteous doth he dwell; yea, and he has also said that the righteous shall sit down in his kingdom, to go no more out; but their garments should be made white through the blood of the Lamb." - Alma 34:35-36

I'm not at liberty to tell you all that has proceeded with Katy, but I will tell you this, we must accept and choose to follow Christ. We can delay our repentance and withhold Heavenly help, or we can obey and follow our Savior where there is refuge. Nobody deserves affliction, just as was stated in the first scripture, we can only really punish ourselves. We make the decisions, we call the shots. The outcomes and results of those choices are dependent on whom we choose to follow; our adversary or our God. 

"No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon". 

I relate now to Matthew 26:4 and 2 Nephi 32:8

"Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." 

"And now, my beloved brethren, I perceive that ye ponder still in your hearts; and it grieveth me that I must speak concerning this thing. For if ye would hearken unto the Spirit which teacheth a man to pray, ye would know that ye must pray; for the evil spirit teacheth not a man to pray, but teacheth him that he must not pray."

These scriptures now have a new meaning to me. We all must listen to the Holy Spirit. 

"And why should I yield to sin, because of my flesh? Yea, why should I give way to temptations, that the evil one have place in my heart to destroy my peace and afflict my soul? Why am I angry because of mine enemy?
Awake, my soul! No longer droop in sin. Rejoice, O my heart, and give place no more for the enemy of my soul." - 2 Nephi 4:27

If you create room for the evil one, he will enter. Do not leave space or open a door or window for him to creep in. If you seek help, you must obey that help. The power of God must be manifest on condition of our willingness and obedience to keep His commandments. Satan only has the power that we give him. 

"For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified." - Romans 2:13

The Priesthood is real. God's ability to bless and heal His children is real. The Lord beckons:

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:28-30

He can and will give us aide. Let His Spirit work within you, and it will work out for your salvation. I leave this witness in the name of Jesus Christ. 

-Elder G. West

Nov 20th Temple Visit

"And now I would that ye should be humble, and be submissive and gentle; easy to be entreated; full of patience and long-suffering; being temperate in all things; being diligent in keeping the commandments of God at all times; asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal; always returning thanks unto God for whatsoever things ye do receive." - Alma 7:23

This scripture is titled the "Formula for Success". As we endeavor for greatness, we must to look up to God for our achievements.

My email today is going to be real short. We went to the temple and went through every ordinance for my family names except for sealings. It's sad we don't get to do sealings. As I was in the Celestial room, I saw a family all huddle around each other, hug, and expressing their love. It was a tender moment. That is what heaven will be like! As I saw them I felt the calling and the realization that I'll be there someday. Heaven wouldn't be heaven without family and a family of my own. I had my two companions with me of course, but being in the temple with an eternal companion will be much better (just one I promise 😘).

Thank you all, family and friends, who have kept up with me thus far in my mission. Have a happy turkey day!

Elder G. West

Lizard that stuck itself to our window screen
"the great cup incident" πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚
A pic we took of the temple this morning

 

Sunday, November 11, 2018

Pre-Slammed Door

October 29, 2018 

"Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbor, and hate thine enemy. 
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" - Matthew 5:43-44

What a ride this last week was. It was a roller coaster for sure! Elder Pugmire went into surgery on Wednesday to get his tonsils removed. He's been recovering at some senior couples' homes until he comes back with Elder Judi and I. In the meantime my new little "greenie" and I have been on the grind! We re-opened this area last month, so I've been trying to build-up a teaching pool again. We have been knocking on a lot of doors, which is a good experience for my new missionary. It helps get the "greenness" out of them per say. But Elder Judi is a stud, simple and meek in his teaching, and willing to learn and do the work. He's from Coalville Utah, a small community by Provo. He likes comic books and writing. There is one tender moment we had together that really made me like him.

When a new missionary arrives to the ATM (Arizona Tucson Mission) they go through a lot of training and orientation to become a missionary and we throw a lot of stuff at them (not literally).  One thing is that they let you pick out a pillow and comforter that you will use for your bedding for the next two years. Now this is the moment that is so special. There are a lot of different colors of comforters to choose from; red, brown, black, blue, pink, and purple. Of course the pink ones are for the Sister Missionaries coming in, but there were only a few left. You know what he does? He takes a pink one haha! That's when I knew we would get along. Hilarious. (maybe not to you but definitely for me)

A day of adversity for us was this last Saturday while tracting. We have been knocking on a lot of doors, talking to nearly everyone we see, you know "planting a lot of seeds" but no one was interested in learning more. After about 4 hours of knocking on doors one interesting moment happened after we finished at the doorstep of one home and as we made our way to another. We were about to cross the street to introduce ourselves to the people outside who were across the road, as we got to the pavement on the other side of the road we heard a loud "bang"! Not putting much thought into it we went up to the door and knocked. A few seconds roll by and the door was promptly opened in order for the owner to have just enough leverage on it to give the door an impressive "thud"! No formalities. No words as in, "Go away! " or "We aren't interested!", just the sound of the wood hitting the framework echoing in our ears. All of a sudden I realize... that noise from before we knocked on the door was them slamming the door! It was a "pre-slammed door!" Hahaha... I've just learned to laugh at instances like that. Everyone warns you before you go on a mission that people will throw doors in your face, but when it actually comes to pass I just think to myself, "Wow! They were right! How neat is that?" 

Last week was my birthday. It's strange to think that I am now 21. If I want to legally become an alcoholic now I can! 

Thanks everyone for all of your support, letters, and prayers.
  
Love, Elder West


My sisters and I are now 21 years old!  Crazy! Miss you!

Drawing I made...(its an inside joke).

Sunday, November 4, 2018

I'm a Grandpa...kinda

October 15, 2018 

"But I have commanded you to bring up your children in light and truth."
-Doctrine and Covenants 93:40

Elder Pugmire and I received a call from President Browning last Saturday... We will be training a new missionary as a trio! It'll be interesting, Elder Pug got his visa to go to Mexico for his mission in Torreon. He will be staying here for a little longer but exactly how long we don't know. So technically I'm a grandpa, because my "son" I've been training, Elder Pugmire, will be training with me. We are both super excited! Our new missionary will be the most loved kid in this mission, haha.

Our work has been going well. We had a super cool experience the other day. It was raining real hard, and we are on bikes this week, so we got drenched. We went to the family history center (which is about a 15 minute bike ride) to fill out some paper work for Elder Pugs he needed for his return to Mexico. After we arrive, we sit down, and then realize that Elder P forgot some information he needed at our apartment. As we were leaving to head back to our apartment this older woman and her friend asked us if they could take our seats because they wanted to be next to each other. She was very nice, she is a member in a different ward. We talked with her for a little but then went on our way. Before heading back to our apartment we decided to wait-out the rain in the parking lot and make some calls to our Ward, set up lessons etc. After making some calls and trying to build on our work for the coming week, we decided to ride our bikes to In-n-Out burger; we didn't have a dinner scheduled that night, (they canceled on us). The rain didn't stop, but we're hungry and we needed to get going anyway, so we ride our bikes, arrive dripping wet and go inside and little be known... the same lady and her friend we met earlier were sitting inside having dinner! They paid for our dinner (members are always so nice) and we ate together. As we talked with them we found out that they are both converts to the church. One of the ladies has a son who less active, that married a non-member and his kids are not baptized. We had a great conversation, got to know them better and found out her son is actually in our Ward boundaries! So we will be visiting them next week, hoping to put on a "good look" for the church and build a relationship with them. Such a cool experience that wouldn't have happened without rain and a couple mishaps. πŸ˜‡

I'll send some pictures of the past week, including our drenched faces from the rain. Love everyone! 

Elder West




Tuesday, October 9, 2018

Love πŸ’—

A couple of gems from the scriptures:

"He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength."
-Isaiah 40:29
"And the rebellious shall be pierced with much sorrow; for their iniquities shall be spoken upon the housetops, and their secret acts shall be revealed." 
-D&C 1:3

"And he has translated the book, even that part which I have commanded him, and AS YOUR LORD AND YOUR GOD LIVETH IT IS TRUE."
-D&C 17:6

Doctrine and Covenants 1:3 has been a scripture that I've remembered most of my life. It has influenced me over my life time as I try to improve. The principle that our sins will be shouted from the rooftops and our secrets will be known to all if we do not repent is frightening! If there is anything disingenuous or "embarrassing" about your past you should put your knees to the ground and figure out how to make restitution for what you have done. I would much rather work out my difficulties in this life and move forward now than have to wait for the day of reckoning when all my hidden works are brought to light and I am ashamed. "Do ye suppose that ye shall dwell with [God] under a consciousness of your guilt? Do ye suppose that ye could be happy to dwell with that Holy Being, when your souls are racked with a consciousness of guilt that ye have ever abused his laws? Behold, I say unto you that ye would be more miserable to dwell with a holy and just God, under a consciousness of your filthiness before him, than ye would to dwell with the damned souls in hell" (Mormon 9:3-4). 

Gratefully, "... the Messiah should be made manifest unto them in the latter days, in the spirit of power, unto the bringing of them out of darkness unto light—yea, out of hidden darkness and out of captivity unto freedom" (2 Nephi 3:5). "...I desire that ye should let these things trouble you no more, and only let your sins trouble you, with that trouble which shall bring you down unto repentance" (Alma 42:29). "Therefore, blessed are they who will repent and hearken unto the voice of the Lord their God; for these are they that shall be saved" (Helaman 12:23). "And whosoever will hearken unto my words and repenteth and is baptized, the same shall be saved. Search the prophets, for many there be that testify of these things" (3Nephi 23:5). 

It only makes sense to repent now. Don't be so ignorant as to believe that you will live tomorrow! "And now, my brethren, I wish from the inmost part of my heart, yea, with great anxiety EVEN UNTO PAIN, that ye would hearken unto my words, and cast off your sins, and not procrastinate the day of your repentance" (Alma 13:27).
The Book of Mormon shows us that the gospel of Jesus Christ is simple, yet also has expansive reach. These profound truths are precious. In President Nelsons address in the October 2017 General Conference, he spoke of a king that when confronted with this added insight in the Book of Mormon he exclaimed, “You could have given me diamonds or rubies, but nothing is more precious to me than this additional knowledge about the Lord Jesus Christ.” 

As my time in the mission field is coming to a near close, I've wanted to finish the Book of Mormon one last time before I leave. My current study of the BofM using "Questions of the Soul" has been taking me a long time, I'm only half way through and I started in May! If I continue studying this way I wouldn't be able to finish at that pace! But as the Prophet encouraged the women (men also) in this last conference session to read the Book of Mormon by the end of the year, it was an answer to my question. My "study" can resume afterwards, but now is the moment to seek and learn more of the grace and love of Christ and I'm going to read the good book and finish it as our Prophet has asked.

Love is a tough subject for me. I stress and strain myself as I try and recognize my emotions. This internal battle compels me to put up barriers and to desensitize my feelings, to avoid being hurt. The importance to love people in the mission field and especially at home towards my family, friends, and my future companion is critical. I know this. I'm afraid to be beaten, battered, or bruised as I struggle to show my love. I'm still working on how to implement Moroni's admonition to, "perfect love casteth out all fear" (Moroni 8:16). I feel the pure love of Christ at times, for others predominantly. Recently, as my companion and I were sitting in the living room of a man with his three children, or as I voiced a blessing to a struggling daughter of God, or as I "[prayed] continually for [those I care about] by day" ... "mine eyes [watered] my pillow by night, because of them" (2Nephi 33:3) and I have felt unrestrained love. Like Nephi, I I have felt love beyond my own capacity, so much so that I cry because of it. It becomes impossible for me to constrain my emotions that it all comes out in one burst of compassion. I can't help but love people that I get to know and associate with. I know the Lord is helping me with this. He is there by my side, just as much as He is by yours. 

Keep fighting the good fight.
Love,
Elder West


Sunday, September 30, 2018

Elder Pugs

Great scripture this week that's stuck in my mind.  "And thus they were instruments in the hands of God in bringing many to the knowledge of the truth, yea, to the knowledge of their Redeemer.  And how blessed are they! For they did publish peace; they did publish good tidings of good; and they did declare unto the people that the Lord reigneth." Mosiah 27:36-37

I am officially out of the Gila Valley. It was sad to say goodbye to a place I put so much of myself into. I loved the people, the missionaries, everything. I had a good hug with Elder Brown before I left, it was good being his companion. I have to say, it was harder leaving the Gila than it was leaving home (sorry mom). I can't imagine what it'll be like once I have to leave the mission... I try not to think about it.

I received my new companion Elder Pugmire this week! He is in Tucson waiting for a visa before going to Mexico. We don't know how long he'll be here, but we get along great so I'll take Elder Pugs as long as I can!

We are in a "car share" area, so every other week we will have a car (which will be nice during hot weeks), but I'm looking forward to riding a bike again. Unfortunately I let other missionaries use my bike tools and other bike stuff which seemed to have been "lost" or stolen. So I'm back to square one having to buy tools and stuff... Oh well, that's the bike life.

One funny thing that happened this week. 

We went to our missionary district council meeting in East Tucson at a church building on Wednesday as usual. When we entered the chapel one hallway was covered in some sort of dust or vapor seemed to fill the room. It wasn't smoke, because it settled like flour on the floor. It was white and stung our throats when we would breathe in. Eventually we found a fire extinguisher on the roof. Some chalk boards had some explicit images drawn on them. We learned later in the week that some teenager took a fire extinguisher and put the dry solution in the ventilation of the church building. Eventuality it was cleaned up by some very kind members. Apparently a few weeks ago the building was tagged twice so there has been some vandalism going on in the neighborhood. We will see what happens in the future, but that's Tucson for ya. πŸ™

Work wise ... we are doing our best to get in the door and begin the missionary work in this area. We have met some great people out here but unfortunately they not very committal. Wish us luck on the bikes this week!

Love Elder West

Elder Pugs and I during a video chat


A king snake I caught on p-day service project

Vandalism inside the church

Ha...




Monday, September 3, 2018

Outra point .IV

Great scripture I like this week: "But this much I can tell you, that if ye do not watch yourselves, and your thoughts, and your words, and your deeds, and observe the commandments of God, and continue in the faith of what ye have heard concerning the coming of our Lord, even unto the end of your lives, ye must perish. And now, O man, remember, and perish not." - Mosiah 4:30

Hello all! Quick update...🐐

I received a call from President Browning on Saturday telling me that I will be leaving the Gila Valley and receiving a new assignment. I'm going back to Tucson and its a bike area; Yay! He asked me to train a new missionary, and I will be "white-washing" an area in the city, which means neither of us have been in that area, it's a newly re-opened area, so we can get a good look and REVAMP the work. I'm so excited, I love biking! And I'll be having another son! I'm soooooexcited! With a greeny missionary, straight out of the MTC, I'll have no appointments, no prior work, and no idea what to do in this area... but it'll be great. I am sad to leave this area and Elder Brown. These past two transfers were probably the best of my mission so far.

On Saturday we had another baptism in our young single adult Ward, our investigator Mianna. She was sooo prepared I feel like we did nothing at all but lead her through the lessons. It was really fun teaching someone my own age, it's a different feel than teaching adults. The YSA Wards are fun and I survived the summer months, so now back Tucson. It should be a ride.

We just started teaching this new investigator, a FLDS kid.  It's interesting how he can have a testimony of Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon and not believe in the continuation of the priesthood into the Restored Church of Jesus Christ. He's a good kid and he wants to be baptized once he is ready.  We aren't sure when "ready" is.  Unfortunately, I won't get to see him through the lessons nor see his view of the church, but the process has helped me better understand and appreciate my own testimony. I don't think I've ever doubted the church, I've probably just doubted myself; which we all tend to do at some point in our lives. It's a good thing we have a God who is ALWAYS there and we have a Savior who suffered for us. "Look unto me in every thought; doubt not, fear not. Behold the wounds which pierced my side, and also the prints of the nails in my hands and feet; be faithful, keep my commandments, and ye shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Amen." - D&C 6:36-37  Another great scripture for the week.

Peace-out.  Love ya'll!

-Elder G. West


Gila Valley is on fire!


Hey everyone!  These past 5 weeks of the transfer flew by. I feel like I say that every transfer...

Last week our baptism went great! We will be having another one this upcoming weekend! I'm so excited.  Our Zone has been on fire with baptisms too. In the Gila Valley Zone we had 7 baptisms this month! Elder Brown and I are so proud of our Zone. Things are picking-up out here and we have some great momentum. Transfers are coming up soon, so we will find out this Saturday if I end up staying in the area or not.

A few fun things we did during our last p-day; we went on a hike and then climbed a few watch towers in the "mountains."  And we also found a huge locust!

 




Monday, August 27, 2018

Aug 13th - Always follow the little Mexican boy

Cool scripture and quote I like this week.
"Ye are swift to do iniquity but slow to remember the Lord your God. Ye have seen an angel, and he spake unto you; yea, ye have heard his voice from time to time; and he hath spoken unto you in a still small voice, but ye were past feeling, that ye could not feel his words; wherefore, he has spoken unto you like unto the voice of thunder, which did cause the earth to shake as if it were to divide asunder." - 1 Nephi 17:45

"Determined to walk in his own way, the natural man often persists to the point where he is "past feeling," having been sedated by pleasing the carnal mind. Sadly, like the drug addict, he is always in need of a fresh fix."  -Neal A. Maxwell 

I'll quickly write about this super cool miracle we had the other day. Elder Brown and I were out trying to contact people... as always. This little Mexican boy comes riding by on his scooter saying "hola, hola," and whatnot.  We really couldn't understanding him. It was cute, but we continued to tract further and knock on more homes, but he rides up to us again, circling and saying, "hola" with a smile. He is more persistent the second time and catches our attention by trying to throw out some other Spanish words that I couldn't translate (I left my seer stone at home). But he continues to point down the street for some reason and then starts riding off.  So Elder Brown and I look at each other, kinda' confused, not knowing what he is saying, but we felt prompted to follow him down the road. As we are walking down the street he continues to look back at us every ten yards or so to make sure we are still following him. Eventually we get to what we supposed to be his house. On the the front porch we find his mother, three sisters and now the little Mexican boy staring at us. They ask us if we speak Spanish, and in my "Gringo" awesome Spanish, I tell them "no hablo espanol".  Luckily one of the daughters spoke some English. The first thing she asks is "What time does your church start?"  So obviously we do what any good missionaries would do... call the Spanish Sisters to come by and teach these people! We haven't heard from the Hermanas yet, but that was such a miracle that came by surprise. Lesson learned,,,ALWAYS follow the Little Mexican Boy. :)

In our YSA Ward we are going to have a baptism next week, and we are real excited. Kobe has been so prepared, I feel like I haven't had to do any work. We have a great teaching pool and expect another baptism for the first of November. The college campus is starting to fill up with students and we are getting more and more people at church. Pray for us!

Thanks for all your love, prayers, and emails!  I promise I read them, but I'm not always great at responding, so please forgive me.  But I love them!

Elder West

Golden Kobe

"But Alma said unto him: Thou hast had signs enough; will ye tempt your God? Will ye say, Show unto me a sign, when ye have the testimony of all these thy brethren, and also all the holy prophets? The scriptures are laid before thee, yea, and all things denote there is a God; yea, even the earth, and all things that are upon the face of it, yea, and its motion, yea, and also all the planets which move in their regular form do witness that there is a Supreme Creator."
-Alma 30:44

Nothing too spectacular happened this week. We are still teaching and meeting with our newest investigator / slash Golden boy, Kobe, who by the way, will be getting baptized soon. Yay!  He came to church yesterday, so that was awesome seeing him there! Recently we've been getting more referrals from our members and other missionaries... The Lord really is raining down blessings for us. It's awesome!

One of my favorite parts of the week is on Sunday when we help teach the Mission Preparation class. Elder Brown and I do demonstrations and help instruct and practice with some of the kids out here preparing to go on missions. This last week we taught about the Gospel of Jesus Christ and how simple it really is. How amazing it is to be able to feel the love of God and spread it to those who are in need.

The other night as we were winding down after working in our area and our apartment building lost power. There was a blackout for an hour or so, that was kinda fun. I can't believe I will be hitting my year and half mark soon.  I can't believe it.

Love everyone!
Elder West

July 30 - I think I broke my nose

"For your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." 
-3 Nephi 13:32-33

Another great week but it was a crazy transfer let me tell you! We have four new companionship's training four new missionaries in our Zone, so organizing everyone to get to Tucson and back was a chore. We are also closing an area, so we are splitting up their Wards into two other companionship's. It's like playing domino's with Elders. Enough of the Zone stuff... now down to my area and further changes. Since school will be starting soon we will be dropping our two "Family Wards" to make room to cover more students and YSA Wards. So much is going on it's crazy, but a lot of great stuff!

Earlier this week we got a "sick" referral from a YSA member who is just Golden! Our member who told us about him said we should invite him to be baptized... so on our first visit in the member's home ... we did just that!  And he said yes. Golden right?  He will be getting baptized on August 18th! We've met with him twice this week and he is doing great!

Another major event was our service on last Friday. Some Sisters asked (okay...basically begged) us to help them "clean" a guys yard and house. So we picked up some other Elders to help out the Sisters and this guy they've been working with, but none of us were expecting to be there very long. The Sisters asked if we could start at 6 a.m., so we woke up at 5:30 in order to get there on time. To make a long story short, I'm pretty sure most of the time we "cleaning" we weren't even on ground level! We were ACTUALLY there to help re-roof and level the house. The roof was rotting away so we polished it up with 2×4's and plywood etc, etc. Sounds more like hard labor and carpentry, not "cleaning," but it's all good. We helped them level the house with jacks under the pillars and foundation of the home (BTW which can slip off the structure and crush you). Eight hours later we were still there. It was fun, but not what we were anticipating...thanks Sisters. πŸ˜‡

During one of our morning basketball sessions (ball is life) I did indeed broke my nose. There's this Elder who is like 6'3" who I was wrecking in the paint. I was playing on him hard, keeping him honest, and he goes ahead and posts-me-up, then turns and the back of his head slams me right on the bridge of my nose. He felt the pop on the back of his head and I definitely felt it. The break lacerated my nose and there was just a waterfall of blood spewing out my nostrils. I'm all good now though. Haha.

Today is our p-day and we are riding up in our large van to see three of the most powerful telescopes in the world! Mt. Graham is amazing! Should be a good day.

Appreciate all your letters and boxes.  You're the best!!

Have a good one y'all.  Love, Elder West

Sunday, July 22, 2018

July 16 - Great day

"And now, my son, I trust that I shall have great joy in you, because of your steadiness and your faithfulness unto God; for as you have commenced in your youth to look to the Lord your God, even so I hope that you will continue in keeping his commandments; for blessed is he that endureth to the end." - Alma 38:2

What a ride it's been. Because Elder Brown and I have not gone to the Temple for a while we moved our P-Day in order to do so... And I can tell you this, it's been a struggle! But don't worry, we made it haha! The temple was so worth it, we took a family name from Baptism to Endowment... Super cool! 

Things are starting to pick up in our 4 YSA Wards now that school has almost started. We have an investigator who is a young single adult who is doing great with the lessons, commitment, and church attendance! This guy is wanting to get baptized... buuuuut... he wants his "less active" okay, inactive friend to conduct the baptism. So the challenge now is to get his buddy ready, attend church, and "worthy himself up" so he can perform the ordinance for his friend. So maybe we can get a two-for-one supporting the gospel. Pray for us!

Also, some interesting news that you may or may not care about. Because of the recent increase in students to the University there is a sensible shift in the YSA dichotomy. The Gila Valley girls are very much on the prowl for their mates. And this is a very uncomfortable and problematic environment to be around. Our ward mission leader (an RM) IS DATING A GIRL STRAIGHT OUT OF HIGH SCHOOL! If they get married like all of our other YSA Ward Mission Leaders have done, I will lose my mind! FYI, don't marry a girl from the Gila Valley, because some how you will end up living here like everyone else. 

Transfers are coming up, so we will see how it all turns out Saturday night. Keep on... keeping on y'all. 

Love,
Elder West

1) Elder Brown and I at the Gila Valley Temple!




Sunday, July 8, 2018

June 25th - Frieeeeends!

"And since man had fallen he could not merit anything of himself; but the sufferings and death of Christ atone for their sins, through faith and repentance, and so forth; and that he breaketh the bands of death, that the grave shall have no victory, and that the sting of death should be swallowed up in the hopes of glory; and Aaron did expound all these things unto the king." Alma 22:14

Elder Brown and I had a solid week! We've been going on splits with all the elders in our zone, helping them plan for their areas, and setting some dope goals. We also got to pick a new zone focus for the coming month which was cool.

We actually got to do some YSA work as well this week, which was great. I'm excited for school at EA to start again because then we lose the two family wards and just cover 4 YSA Wards, and I've heard that's pretty swanky. 

Also random update, Elder Brown and I are total bros. Honestly there are so many random things we have in common it's kind of ridiculous. Post mission adventure plans have already been made, and countless inside jokes have already been born. 😎 Haha 

We are also playing a lot of basketball on our p-days, many dope workouts throughout the week, plenty of movie references, and stories of past shenanigans shared. He truly is a shenanstigator at heart, and therefore a brother.

Hope everyone back home is doing well! I apologize for not being able to write a longer email, but tis the nature of my life now. Stay as fresh as the haircuts of all the elders in my zone now (thanks for the fresh fades Elder Brown). 

Love G. West

Ok so this email will not be nearly as long as I would like it to be, our schedule has been less than convenient, cuz like everyone in the zone needs something, so sorry.

July 2nd - Enlightenment

"And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 


"And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name."

"And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ." Acts 5:40-42

When I reflect on the early apostles, I think of how courageous they were in sharing the gospel. They weren't as steadfast and immovable right from the beginning as they were at the end. "Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad." Matt 26:31

This gives me comfort in the fact that I am not a perfect disciple. It's interesting how "disciple" and "discipline" are only different by a couple letters. For us to be true disciples of Jesus Christ we must be disciplined and show self restraint, bridling our passions, facing adversity with calmness, and loving those who despise us (1Cor 13:5, Alma 38:12, D&C 135:4, Matt 5:44). This is not easy, but can be possible through the grace and wisdom of Christ. What a wonderful change it has been for me to want to be disciplined and not kick against the pricks. I don't know where I would be in my progression towards perfection or as a person if I had not come on a mission. 

I learned a lot this week, mainly because our zone had a conference and we had interviews with the president. It's so inspiring to be around so many good people. It's a real blessing to serve the Lord.

Onward and upward

Me and My companion Elder Brown

Love,
Elder West


June 11th - Hello There

"And the church did meet together oft, to fast and to pray, and to speak one with another concerning the welfare of their souls. And they did meet together oft to partake of bread and wine, in remembrance of the Lord Jesus." - Moroni 6:6

This past Sunday in one of our Wards we were talking about the Sacrament during Sunday School and I feel impressed to share my thoughts. 

Amongst many scriptures that advise us "partake not of the sacrament of Christ unworthily" (1Cor. 11:29; 3Ne 18:29; Morm 9:29; D&C 46:4) there are many more things which I personally consider that will help us to "keep in remembrance" Christ and enable us to FULLY indulge in His atoning sacrifice. We read in the Sacrament prayers (Moroni 4:3; Moroni 5:2 etc.) that we must always remember Him. There is no better time than at church to look back on our previous week and move forward in the next. Once a week the Lord has set aside this sacred time solely devoted for this purpose. As we show God that it is important to us, our effort and repentance can make us whole. "For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered [week by week] continually make the comers thereunto perfect." - Hebrews 10:1

The Atonement, the great and everlasting sacrifice of Jesus Christ made it possible to be "at one" with Heavenly Father's personal path for us. Without the Atonement we would be lost and without hope. Because He did die and He does extend His mercy, we can be spiritually lead to a life the Lord would want us to live. For God is no "respecter of persons", but thoroughly concerned with the individual salvation of all of His children. So individually we must "work out [our] own Salvation" (Acts 10:34; Philipians 2:12). Personally we need to be concerned for the welfare of our souls. How can we do this when we are not thinking of Christ first, especially at church, especially during the sacrament? We are renewing our covenant with God, an Eternal promise, to remember His Son. Do you honestly think you'll do so during the week if you do not do so during a time specially sanctioned by the Creator?! How are you showing Him that it is important to you? Are you bowing your head in humility or just arching your neck to see the screen of your phone? Do you close your eyes in precious prayer or out of boredom? Are you making the Sacrament special or just something we do at church?

In symbolism to partaking of His goodness, let's look toward another instance where there is a group of people gathering and consuming. "And it came to pass that I beheld others pressing forward, and they came forth and caught hold of the end of the rod of iron; and they did press forward through the mist of darkness, clinging to the rod of iron, even until they did come forth and partake of the fruit of the tree."

"And after they had partaken of the fruit of the tree they did cast their eyes about as if they were ashamed.
And after they had tasted of the fruit they were ashamed, because of those that were scoffing at them; and they fell away into forbidden paths and were lost." (1Ne 8:24-25; 1Ne 8:28)

We may partake but not internalize the impending importance of the ordinance of the Sacrament. Our we may just taste and just do so without thought or feeling. I can't stress enough how much I love and appreciate my Savior and the gift of the Sabbath and the chance I have to indulge in His Atonement. 

Enjoy your week!

Elder West

P.S.
I ate 15 Dennys pancakes today. I now hold the ATM record.

And part of a video we made... 

Kbye



June 4th - Weekly

"And there are many among us who have many revelationsfor they are not all stiffneckedAnd as many as are not stiffnecked and have faith, have communion with the Holy Spirit, which maketh manifest unto the children of men, according to their faith."

Hello everybody, its good to write to you this week! There have been a lot going on... so I'll make this quick and painless.

Recently our Zone has had the opportunity to help out a potential investigator clean her house. This place was honestly the filthiest home I've been inside on my mission (and that's saying something). It was a single wide trailer, literally falling apart. The floors were made of particle board, most of which was rotting away and many parts had holes where you could see outside! Cobwebs lined the walls and they were not without spiders. Luckily they had two dogs and 4-5 cats which had defecated all over the place. The mother had her clothes layered about a foot high in her bedroom, all of which smelled of cat urine. Don't even get me started with the bathrooms. Needless to say it was a BAD situation. The mother of the family anxiously wanted us to come help her "tidy up", because the CPS (child protection services) were threatening to take away her kids. We did the best we could but after our help doing what we could with her home, unfortunately (or fortunately depending upon how you look at it) her kids were still taken from her.

Let's get to some happy stuff now! We had a Zone Conference and an MLC, which were both AMAZING! At our Zone Conference our Mission President's Mission President from his mission came to speak to us. Wise words from a wise man, he essentially told us to not lie and to get married as fast as necessary when we get home haha. At MLC we had the opportunity to hear from Elder Taniela B. Wokolo from the Quorum of the Seventy and also an Area Seventy attend the conference and give us some training. Elder Wokolo is now in my top 3 favorite General Authorities. That man can spit out scriptures like it's none of your business! My respect for the leaders of the Church has grown ten fold. They are true servants of God.

Today we went to an escape room, we escaped. Just thought I'd let you know.

Have a good week Y'all

Love Elder West