First, I hope that everybody had a very merry Christmas. I hope you each had time to think about the season, to slow down for at least a bit. I also hope that everyone who had a White Christmas appreciated it.
As for me, Christmas was not white, at least we didn't have any snow down here. Yes, it was different from the norm, but it truly was a wonderful time for me. This last week with Elder Robinaugh has been great. We get along even better than I had hoped. Our district has a good bond and I am making some good friends.
Both Christmas Eve and Christmas were unusual days. We spent a lot of time visiting with members of our ward. It was good to be invited in as a part of their holidays. Some even bought us presents, making us feel spoiled, but we were very grateful.
Yesterday, Elder Robinaugh and I ate five very delicious, very large, and very enjoyable meals. It was a miracle, but we made it through. In fact, with both of us being sick, I think we are feeling better today after being incredibly well fed.
Our final dinner appointment was with the family and friends of one of our investigators. Rosalia, who is blind, had another blind friend there. Her friend, Evelyn, speaks English as well as Spanish and is very curious about religion, in fact she spends most of her time thinking about it and learning more. She had come to some very acute conclusions about God and the Bible and I was grateful to be able to testify to her and teach her in a mix of Spanish and English. Other investigators of our's are friends of Rosalia's family, and were at the party as well. We watched the Joy to the World video, and the Spirit was strong. It is a great time of year to learn more about the Savior.
As nice as all that was, the best part of Christmas was the time I spent on the phone with my family. The only pity was that Cecily and Tommy weren't there. It's always nice to talk with Grandma Rose, and JoAnna and Hyrum were also fun to talk to. With so much going on at home and such a full house, I'm sure I miss out on a lot of parties and good times. But I haven't really been gone that long. In fact, on the phone, it felt as though I hadn't really left.
But I am gone, and I have changed. As the year comes to a close, it's astounding to think how much I have grown since last Christmas. To think where I was is almost unbelievable. Surely, there have been miracles in my life that have shaped and directed me. Accept my gratitude, all those whose guidance helped lead me in the past year. Many of you will never know how you have influenced me, and I suppose that is as it always is. Thank you for the Christlike examples, and uplifting hands of friendship, and patience. I wish I could write you all and tell you individually, but if I had enough time for that, then I wouldn't be doing what I am supposed to. (If you are wondering if you are one of the people I am talking about, just assume you are and feel good about yourself)
My time is up. Thank you again, for everything. Party hardy, and Happy New Year. Love you!
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
asi, empieza
Thus, it starts, transfer 2! The anticipation continued to build through the week, but at last transfers came. And the results ... I stayed. My trainer has been transferred to another area. It was time, considering he had been in our Ward seven-and-a-half months already.
My new companion, Elder Robinaugh (rob-in-aw), came from the other companionship in our ward, so I already know him very well. I am excited for this time coming up, because we have a lot of work to do, but it will be so pleasant to do it with Elder Robinaugh.
Christmas approaches and our plans are looking favorable. We will be spending some time with the English speaking members Elders Wood and Rutt live with, but much of the day will be with a family from our Ward, the Baldwins. All four missionaries will be together, so it will be a party. I just wonder if there is such thing as too much fun in missionary work.
This is the last email I'll get to send before Christmas. I testify of the sacred purpose of that Babe born in Bethlehem. I know that God has purpose in all things, that there is a plan for us as all of His children and individually. I know that we cannot grow without suffering. We cannot grasp joy without going through the fire of affliction, and everything is for our good. I am thankful for the plan of my challenges, and the plan that was set forth to make up the difference for the times when I don't do what I should. We must come unto Christ, especially in this special season. I pray that you are all safe and well and enduring well the things God has been planning for you.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
My new companion, Elder Robinaugh (rob-in-aw), came from the other companionship in our ward, so I already know him very well. I am excited for this time coming up, because we have a lot of work to do, but it will be so pleasant to do it with Elder Robinaugh.
Christmas approaches and our plans are looking favorable. We will be spending some time with the English speaking members Elders Wood and Rutt live with, but much of the day will be with a family from our Ward, the Baldwins. All four missionaries will be together, so it will be a party. I just wonder if there is such thing as too much fun in missionary work.
This is the last email I'll get to send before Christmas. I testify of the sacred purpose of that Babe born in Bethlehem. I know that God has purpose in all things, that there is a plan for us as all of His children and individually. I know that we cannot grow without suffering. We cannot grasp joy without going through the fire of affliction, and everything is for our good. I am thankful for the plan of my challenges, and the plan that was set forth to make up the difference for the times when I don't do what I should. We must come unto Christ, especially in this special season. I pray that you are all safe and well and enduring well the things God has been planning for you.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
one week to transfers and counting ...
There is an anticipation leading up to transfers that I find very interesting. Apparently with a fairly new Mission President, nobody really knows what to expect when transfers come around. Some are excited, others afraid, I just want it to come.
In the last week I have discovered a lot about my situation in the mission. Apparently, my district for the last few months has been known for being the most "apostate." There are a lot of negative feelings amongst the missionaries and it really hinders the work. Everybody is trying to make predictions for what will go down next Wednesday at our transfer meeting, but like I said, nobody has any real educated guesses.
A section of our mission became part of the Phoenix Mission on Sunday. This meant a lot of companionships became threesomes for a short time until our transfers when they will be dispersed into the rest of the mission. This adds more tension to the upcoming transfer.
One of my companions from the MTC, Elder Rutt is now in my same ward with the other Spanish companionship. It's strange to see him again. The MTC feels like a very long time ago, but the last 5 weeks have moved very quickly. We've both grown a lot.
I don't know who says that it never rains in Arizona ... it has been raining for 2 weeks almost every day. And everybody else is bundling up for colder weather. This morning we left our house in a dense fog. All this bad weather has been bad news for missionaries who are accustomed to working in perfect weather. But still Elder Bull and I worked hard this week. And it paid off I suppose.
I don't know if I mentioned it, but we are teaching a blind lady. Her brother and sister-in-law are great to testify powerfully about the church every time we are there. She quit drinking coffee and is on track to be baptized, all we need is a date.
Another family is gaining more knowledge about the nature and purpose of God. As they learn, they have more faith to do things like quit drinking alcohol, a big accomplishment for their family.
Another investigator, Steve, is something we call an "eternigator" because he mostly just likes us to come over and visit, but he never makes progress. This week, he told us that he is actually going to come to church, a huge step. Steve is funny though, he's been paying his "tithing" for months. As we leave, he goes to grab $20 that he smoothly slips to us as he shakes our hands. We turn it in every Sunday as his tithing, and told him we would bring him some tithing envelopes next time we stopped by.
Norma and Carlos have been studying with Jehovah's Witnesses for a while. We had a powerful lesson with them and they were excited to read the Book of Mormon and ask their preacher why the J. W. Bible has omitted certain scriptures.
Jorge and Marta basically know the church is true, they just need to learn more, and it's wonderful to teach them.
Of course, not everything is good. These successes come after a lot of rejection, but the field is white in Queen Creek for Spanish missionaries. I continue to work at Spanish, and it becomes a great way to make friends with the people we meet. Sharing stories about learning a language is good common ground. I have made many good friends of investigators and members of our ward. It's hard to think, in one week I could be leaving. Perhaps even more scary, Elder Bull might leave, and I will need to show a new companion everything about the work we are doing, which seems daunting right now.
This is God's work. He wants all His children to know of the Gospel and to give them the true opportunity to make a clear and educated decision. This church is so true, and it is so obvious to one who asks in faith. I am grateful to be a missionary, even though I don't get to be at home with all of you. Always do good things, I pray for you all, just think of me during the season.
Love,
-Elder Sam Bostwick
In the last week I have discovered a lot about my situation in the mission. Apparently, my district for the last few months has been known for being the most "apostate." There are a lot of negative feelings amongst the missionaries and it really hinders the work. Everybody is trying to make predictions for what will go down next Wednesday at our transfer meeting, but like I said, nobody has any real educated guesses.
A section of our mission became part of the Phoenix Mission on Sunday. This meant a lot of companionships became threesomes for a short time until our transfers when they will be dispersed into the rest of the mission. This adds more tension to the upcoming transfer.
One of my companions from the MTC, Elder Rutt is now in my same ward with the other Spanish companionship. It's strange to see him again. The MTC feels like a very long time ago, but the last 5 weeks have moved very quickly. We've both grown a lot.
I don't know who says that it never rains in Arizona ... it has been raining for 2 weeks almost every day. And everybody else is bundling up for colder weather. This morning we left our house in a dense fog. All this bad weather has been bad news for missionaries who are accustomed to working in perfect weather. But still Elder Bull and I worked hard this week. And it paid off I suppose.
I don't know if I mentioned it, but we are teaching a blind lady. Her brother and sister-in-law are great to testify powerfully about the church every time we are there. She quit drinking coffee and is on track to be baptized, all we need is a date.
Another family is gaining more knowledge about the nature and purpose of God. As they learn, they have more faith to do things like quit drinking alcohol, a big accomplishment for their family.
Another investigator, Steve, is something we call an "eternigator" because he mostly just likes us to come over and visit, but he never makes progress. This week, he told us that he is actually going to come to church, a huge step. Steve is funny though, he's been paying his "tithing" for months. As we leave, he goes to grab $20 that he smoothly slips to us as he shakes our hands. We turn it in every Sunday as his tithing, and told him we would bring him some tithing envelopes next time we stopped by.
Norma and Carlos have been studying with Jehovah's Witnesses for a while. We had a powerful lesson with them and they were excited to read the Book of Mormon and ask their preacher why the J. W. Bible has omitted certain scriptures.
Jorge and Marta basically know the church is true, they just need to learn more, and it's wonderful to teach them.
Of course, not everything is good. These successes come after a lot of rejection, but the field is white in Queen Creek for Spanish missionaries. I continue to work at Spanish, and it becomes a great way to make friends with the people we meet. Sharing stories about learning a language is good common ground. I have made many good friends of investigators and members of our ward. It's hard to think, in one week I could be leaving. Perhaps even more scary, Elder Bull might leave, and I will need to show a new companion everything about the work we are doing, which seems daunting right now.
This is God's work. He wants all His children to know of the Gospel and to give them the true opportunity to make a clear and educated decision. This church is so true, and it is so obvious to one who asks in faith. I am grateful to be a missionary, even though I don't get to be at home with all of you. Always do good things, I pray for you all, just think of me during the season.
Love,
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
one month
Tomorrow is my one-month anniversary in the mission field. As another missionary pointed out, that means I only have 21 months left. I'm not very anxious to start counting down to the end. So far, it is true that time picks up. It doesn't feel like a month has gone by. Before I know it, I will be home and wondering what happened, and perhaps even wishing to come back to my mission.
The wedding and baptism for the Yeomans this weekend went great. The wedding ceremony was simple and performed by the Bishop, followed by food, music, and dancing. Latinos know how to party. The following day, at the baptism, the Spirit was so strong with the support of almost the entire Ward in attendance. We even had other investigators come. The part that was most nerve-wracking was the announcement that Elder Robinaugh, Elder Wood (the other companionship in our Ward) and I would take some time to talk. Apparently this meant we were to teach the first lesson. For the first time, I taught the Restoration of the Gospel through Joseph Smith. It was also my first opportunity to bear open and straightforward testimony to our ward. With the help of the sympathetic Holy Ghost, I did it, and did it well. Not that I am fluent at all, but the improvements in my Spanish are hopeful and truly miraculous.
All the Spanish missionaries in the mission meet the first Saturday morning of every month to have Spanish Class. It was the first time I had seen my MTC companions since we all left the first transfer meeting with our trainers. Once again, I had a sudden jolt of realization that this is actually my mission. Sharing stories of the past month got me thinking about how I will be telling mission stories for the rest of my life.
And as for Christmas time ... With Christmas lights on our house, and a borrowed Christmas tree in our living room, the holiday cheer is sneaking up. I was on an exchange with another missionary one night this week, and as we were walking around, I started to look at the stars. The stars in our end of the Phoenix area are fairly vivid, moreso than Salt Lake in any case. Walking through the desert with the stars, I imagined a star brighter than the others in the wide expanse of sky, pointing to the new-born Christ. How silly to be wishing for snow, there certainly wasn't snow the day Jesus was actually born in a manger. What does snow mean to Christmas, really? So Dad, I accept your challenge to make "White Christmas" mean something more than winter time. But even more than the goal to see investigators dressed in white, I want to become more "white" inside myself. I want to sacrifice more, I want to give more, to become pure through service to others with. Christmas is a time to become more like Christ, by loving others, by being happy and focusing on family and God.
Merry Christmas everyone, I love you. Take care and enjoy the winter in Utah.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
holidays
Thanksgiving was pleasant. We ate dinner with a large group of 4 or 5 families from our ward, including the Bishop, and then ate dessert with a few different families from the ward. Almost all the food was completely American, with the exception of a Peruvian dish of raw tilapia marinated in lime juice. It would not have been bad, except they dowsed it with cilantro, my least favorite. An American Thanksgiving gave me mixed feelings, and being on exchanges with English missionaries (my companion has been training other Elders in our District), it's hit me really hard that I am only in Arizona.
As if to contradict the feelings that I am so close to home, Christmas has swept our area in a comical way. Christmas has always been equated with cold and snow and such. The contrast of the Arizona Christmas flavor is large. The Christmas palm trees are lit up and the winter grass is getting greener every day. Many families have the over-sized inflatable Snow Globes in their yards to bring a bit of winter to the desert. I don't think I'll get used to this.
Exciting news is that the second and third Baptisms of my mission are scheduled for this Sunday directly after the Christmas Broadcast. The Yeomans are getting married on Saturday and baptized on Sunday to end their five-year investigation of the Church. This is another situation where I didn't have much involvement, but am just lucky.
On the other side, a family we started teaching last week seemed to be at conflict about how they feel about the Church. I got so distressed during our last lesson wishing I knew how to say what I felt. That not all churches are created equal. This is the only true church, with all the same truths as the church that existed in the Bible and during the time of Christ. That everybody has the flat-out right to know for themselves if it is true and they will know for sure, if they only ask. My testimony got stuck inside me because my mouth didn't know how to work and it was the most painfully frustrating feeling ever.
So to all the friends and family that read this, know that this church is undeniably the only church on the earth that has the power of God through a prophet who receives revelation. There is no doubt that Joseph Smith restored the exact same church that Christ himself established during His time on earth. As nice as other churches are, they are not true, because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and there is one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism. I can't say the smallest part of what I feel, like Ammon, but I know this to be true.
Thanks for the letters, it's always nice to hear from you all. I try to write back as fast as I can, but handwriting letters is time consuming for me. I'm hoping to get hold of a type-writer to make responses faster. I think about you all as often as appropriate, and love you and miss you. Don't party too much this Holiday Season, and if you do, at least think about me once while you do it.
Love,
-Elder Sam Bostwick
P.S. As far as Christmas music is concerned, it is all approved, as long as the lyrics are not romantic. And of course, what good is Christmas music after Christmas....
As if to contradict the feelings that I am so close to home, Christmas has swept our area in a comical way. Christmas has always been equated with cold and snow and such. The contrast of the Arizona Christmas flavor is large. The Christmas palm trees are lit up and the winter grass is getting greener every day. Many families have the over-sized inflatable Snow Globes in their yards to bring a bit of winter to the desert. I don't think I'll get used to this.
Exciting news is that the second and third Baptisms of my mission are scheduled for this Sunday directly after the Christmas Broadcast. The Yeomans are getting married on Saturday and baptized on Sunday to end their five-year investigation of the Church. This is another situation where I didn't have much involvement, but am just lucky.
On the other side, a family we started teaching last week seemed to be at conflict about how they feel about the Church. I got so distressed during our last lesson wishing I knew how to say what I felt. That not all churches are created equal. This is the only true church, with all the same truths as the church that existed in the Bible and during the time of Christ. That everybody has the flat-out right to know for themselves if it is true and they will know for sure, if they only ask. My testimony got stuck inside me because my mouth didn't know how to work and it was the most painfully frustrating feeling ever.
So to all the friends and family that read this, know that this church is undeniably the only church on the earth that has the power of God through a prophet who receives revelation. There is no doubt that Joseph Smith restored the exact same church that Christ himself established during His time on earth. As nice as other churches are, they are not true, because Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever, and there is one Lord, one Faith, one Baptism. I can't say the smallest part of what I feel, like Ammon, but I know this to be true.
Thanks for the letters, it's always nice to hear from you all. I try to write back as fast as I can, but handwriting letters is time consuming for me. I'm hoping to get hold of a type-writer to make responses faster. I think about you all as often as appropriate, and love you and miss you. Don't party too much this Holiday Season, and if you do, at least think about me once while you do it.
Love,
-Elder Sam Bostwick
P.S. As far as Christmas music is concerned, it is all approved, as long as the lyrics are not romantic. And of course, what good is Christmas music after Christmas....
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
adjusting
We had my first baptism this week. My heavens it was amazing. Alicia Hernandez was already taught when I arrived and had a baptismal date, but missed it suddenly to visit family in Mexico. When she got back, Elder Bull especially was relieved to see she was enthusiastic as ever about joining the church. She was so kind to me and was honored that her's was the first baptism of my mission. While I did not perform the baptism or the confirmation, I feel like it was very much part of me. Other missionaries might strive to be very much a part of the baptisms, but I was elated to have it the other way around. Even later when I do get the opportunity to participate more, I hope each baptism takes an active participation in my life. In any case, it was a marker and an exciting one.
And now, days later, we have a family who is starting from the beginning and I'm praying for them. It's fun to get a chance to work on my Spanish to teach the Gospel, especially with this family. They are so eager to learn. And I'm glad to have Elder Bull there when they ask about the existence of other worlds and other such extreme questions. They really want to know!
Today we had the chance to attend the Mesa Temple, an occasion we get to enjoy every 6 weeks. A well respected Temple Scholar was in the session with us and so we grabbed the opportunity to ask "deep" questions before we left. I was excited to hear my curiosities become dispelled as the answers were delivered with a ring of truth that couldn't be denied. That must be what it is like to hear about the Gospel for the first time for the firm seeker of Truth. Things just make so much sense in the Gospel. For the amount that people believe our beliefs to be mysterious and confusing, we really have such a clear understanding of much of the purposes of God. True, we don't know everything, but many people just discount their lack of any knowledge to the fact that we aren't able to comprehend God.
I am still meeting more wonderful members every day. They still help me with my Spanish as though it were a fun game. You can be sure to hold up a solid dinner conversation about why a particular country is better than all others at every single home. For example, one sister was telling us we were eating Celestial food because it was Peruvian. That is just one case. Everybody speaks better Spanish than everybody else for different reasons and you'll hear about it from each of them. I love it. And no, I have not yet met any Chileans, although, I would worry about keeping up with them. It is funny to hear different accents and try and decipher them. One family is completely incomprehensible to me. I can't even understand 3 words. And for some reason, Elder Bull speaks like the Argentines, which everybody comments on. I just keep laughing. Jackie, you'll have to let me know how I can keep my Spanish honorable amidst such a sea of confusion.
I'm not sure how it happened, but I think I am the new pianist for our Ward. I played in Sacrament meeting, in Primary and at the Baptism for Alicia. I fear I am rusty without practice and it is just a sign of how desperate they are to have me play. Others might not enjoy it, but I very much enjoy any opportunity to be at a piano. I miss music so much.
So everybody, I hope the Spirit of Gratitude has become aroused from within you as we take the opportunity to reflect at the Thanksgiving Season. It is in itself a blessing to think about how we have been blessed. I hope that you are finding more to be thankful for, as you contemplate, for truly, we can never say, "thank you" enough.
I love you, take care until next week.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
And now, days later, we have a family who is starting from the beginning and I'm praying for them. It's fun to get a chance to work on my Spanish to teach the Gospel, especially with this family. They are so eager to learn. And I'm glad to have Elder Bull there when they ask about the existence of other worlds and other such extreme questions. They really want to know!
Today we had the chance to attend the Mesa Temple, an occasion we get to enjoy every 6 weeks. A well respected Temple Scholar was in the session with us and so we grabbed the opportunity to ask "deep" questions before we left. I was excited to hear my curiosities become dispelled as the answers were delivered with a ring of truth that couldn't be denied. That must be what it is like to hear about the Gospel for the first time for the firm seeker of Truth. Things just make so much sense in the Gospel. For the amount that people believe our beliefs to be mysterious and confusing, we really have such a clear understanding of much of the purposes of God. True, we don't know everything, but many people just discount their lack of any knowledge to the fact that we aren't able to comprehend God.
I am still meeting more wonderful members every day. They still help me with my Spanish as though it were a fun game. You can be sure to hold up a solid dinner conversation about why a particular country is better than all others at every single home. For example, one sister was telling us we were eating Celestial food because it was Peruvian. That is just one case. Everybody speaks better Spanish than everybody else for different reasons and you'll hear about it from each of them. I love it. And no, I have not yet met any Chileans, although, I would worry about keeping up with them. It is funny to hear different accents and try and decipher them. One family is completely incomprehensible to me. I can't even understand 3 words. And for some reason, Elder Bull speaks like the Argentines, which everybody comments on. I just keep laughing. Jackie, you'll have to let me know how I can keep my Spanish honorable amidst such a sea of confusion.
I'm not sure how it happened, but I think I am the new pianist for our Ward. I played in Sacrament meeting, in Primary and at the Baptism for Alicia. I fear I am rusty without practice and it is just a sign of how desperate they are to have me play. Others might not enjoy it, but I very much enjoy any opportunity to be at a piano. I miss music so much.
So everybody, I hope the Spirit of Gratitude has become aroused from within you as we take the opportunity to reflect at the Thanksgiving Season. It is in itself a blessing to think about how we have been blessed. I hope that you are finding more to be thankful for, as you contemplate, for truly, we can never say, "thank you" enough.
I love you, take care until next week.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Thursday, November 15, 2007
queen creek
The Spanish Ward for the Queen Creek East Stake is wonderful. The members here are missionaries. They are hardworking and goodnatured. They are good to help others. And Dad, you are right, they are humble, humble people. I have never felt so comfortable with my weaknesses as with these people. We all have things to improve, and we work at them.
This knowledge has been important for me. It seems as though I hadn't learned anything in life before my mission. Why did I not seek out the answers to doctrinal questions? Did I even care enough to have questions? I take comfort in the powerful influence of the Atonement. Beyond repentance for sin, we, especially I, have the ability to repent for my apathy. I have met people who don't accept missionaries into their homes, although they accept that what we say might be true, simply because they don't care enough. I wish I could persuade them to care.
As I become adjusted, I am getting more bearings and more of an awareness of the kind of missionary I want to be. It is exciting to me that there are thousands of missionaries in the world, and their differences are what makes them powerful. I hope to find my differences in this work and strengthen them.
The members are kind to be patient with my Spanish. The trick is that many of them, even most of them, speak English at least as well as I speak Spanish. They are kind to play games with their children to not speak English at all for the new Elder. Their help is helping and I have already seen an improvement in my ability to communicate. But even still, there are interesting things to being a Spanish missionary in the states, at least where I am. Chances are good that I will not be speaking Spanish regularly in at least 1 area where I serve. If I ever serve as a Zone Leader, my Spanish status is dismissed. We'll see how things actually turn out.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
This knowledge has been important for me. It seems as though I hadn't learned anything in life before my mission. Why did I not seek out the answers to doctrinal questions? Did I even care enough to have questions? I take comfort in the powerful influence of the Atonement. Beyond repentance for sin, we, especially I, have the ability to repent for my apathy. I have met people who don't accept missionaries into their homes, although they accept that what we say might be true, simply because they don't care enough. I wish I could persuade them to care.
As I become adjusted, I am getting more bearings and more of an awareness of the kind of missionary I want to be. It is exciting to me that there are thousands of missionaries in the world, and their differences are what makes them powerful. I hope to find my differences in this work and strengthen them.
The members are kind to be patient with my Spanish. The trick is that many of them, even most of them, speak English at least as well as I speak Spanish. They are kind to play games with their children to not speak English at all for the new Elder. Their help is helping and I have already seen an improvement in my ability to communicate. But even still, there are interesting things to being a Spanish missionary in the states, at least where I am. Chances are good that I will not be speaking Spanish regularly in at least 1 area where I serve. If I ever serve as a Zone Leader, my Spanish status is dismissed. We'll see how things actually turn out.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Thursday, November 8, 2007
arizona: the beginning
I don't think there is any way to adequately prepare or get an idea of what the first few days of your mission will be like. It is an unknown in the extreme and no amount of thinking about it will brace you for what is coming. But in Arizona, they seemed to be aware of this and they did everything to soften the blow.
I expected to arrive in Arizona, be taken to the Mission Home for a quick interview, be assigned my companion immediately and get to work. This is not what happened.
14 missionaries traveled to Arizona together on Tuesday, 4 Spanish Speaking. We were welcomed by the President's Assistants and the entire Mission Presidency at the airport and they took us to a chapel next to the Mission Home where some ladies had prepared a brunch for us. We took time for introductions and then went to the Mission Home and spent some time for interviews with the President. There were many people to get through, so our interviews were short, but not bad. I am excited to keep my President for my whole mission. President Craig clearly loves us and gives lots of hugs.
After our interviews, there was a down hour where 13 Elders waited at the Mission Home by ourselves. They took Hermana Murray somewhere else to be away from all of us "boys" unaccompanied. I spent the hour taking advantage of the piano, but I'm afraid I was a bother to some without realizing it until after. Oh well, there's nothing wrong with hymns.
Then we went to the Mesa Visitor's Center and learned how we can use that as a resource for our proselyting. And we went to dinner at a member's beautiful house. It was a nice event for us newbies and I sat next to one of the Counselors in the Mission Presidency and his wife. We then went back to the Mission Home where more members met with us to take us to their homes for the night. We were split up in two's, and I was finally apart from my MTC Companions, although not technically with a new companion yet. I and the other Elder with me talked with Brother Lee for about an hour before we retired to our bedrooms (each of us had our own room...) and we called it an early night. It was a long day.
Then next morning we were back in the Mission Home at 7:30 for some orientation. When was I going to get my companion? Most of the morning passed with orientation with the office staff. Then we finally went back over to the Chapel where there had gathered well over a hundred missionaries. I had no idea each mission had so many missionaries. We at last received our companions and heard about everybody else's companion and area transfers. Most of the Mission moved around, which I understand was pretty significant.
My trainer is Elder Bull. He has been out 18 months and is also our District Leader. And he speaks good Spanish. I'm excited to be working with him and hope I learn tons. He tells me that my Spanish is better than his was when we first arrived in the field. I hope I learn fast. Elder Bull's old area was split into 2, and he is now responsible for opening one of the new halves. This means a lot of organization and paperwork. We spent some time getting all we needed from the Mission Home and then swapped around luggage from his old apartment to his new one and then much of the day was over. We went to Walmart for some grocery shopping and then went to a dinner appointment.
Dinner was good with the members we were with. They spoke some English, and I spoke some Spanish. Even Elder Bull spoke mostly English during regular conversation. Their kids were great and the whole family was excited for my first day in the Mission and to help me with my Spanish. The evening did turn out to be a bit of a downer because the investigator who was supposed to have dinner with us and take a lesson didn't show and we don't know why. But the members, the Chy Family, did give us another referral closeby and we visited and made an appointment to come back.
I can do this. The most frustrating feeling is not knowing what is going on. But the thing about a missionaries schedule is that it is full, but not stressful. Things are busy, but not hectic. You never plan more than you can do, and there are many good and worthwhile activities to spend your time on. I hope I adjust fast and learn everything soon. Although I have not had any spiritual manifestations that this is where I am supposed to be, I know I am in the right place. I feel peace of mind being a missionary and am confident that I can quickly understand what I am to do and how I can be successful.
I love you all. I will write again next Wednesday. Take care and write, please.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
I expected to arrive in Arizona, be taken to the Mission Home for a quick interview, be assigned my companion immediately and get to work. This is not what happened.
14 missionaries traveled to Arizona together on Tuesday, 4 Spanish Speaking. We were welcomed by the President's Assistants and the entire Mission Presidency at the airport and they took us to a chapel next to the Mission Home where some ladies had prepared a brunch for us. We took time for introductions and then went to the Mission Home and spent some time for interviews with the President. There were many people to get through, so our interviews were short, but not bad. I am excited to keep my President for my whole mission. President Craig clearly loves us and gives lots of hugs.
After our interviews, there was a down hour where 13 Elders waited at the Mission Home by ourselves. They took Hermana Murray somewhere else to be away from all of us "boys" unaccompanied. I spent the hour taking advantage of the piano, but I'm afraid I was a bother to some without realizing it until after. Oh well, there's nothing wrong with hymns.
Then we went to the Mesa Visitor's Center and learned how we can use that as a resource for our proselyting. And we went to dinner at a member's beautiful house. It was a nice event for us newbies and I sat next to one of the Counselors in the Mission Presidency and his wife. We then went back to the Mission Home where more members met with us to take us to their homes for the night. We were split up in two's, and I was finally apart from my MTC Companions, although not technically with a new companion yet. I and the other Elder with me talked with Brother Lee for about an hour before we retired to our bedrooms (each of us had our own room...) and we called it an early night. It was a long day.
Then next morning we were back in the Mission Home at 7:30 for some orientation. When was I going to get my companion? Most of the morning passed with orientation with the office staff. Then we finally went back over to the Chapel where there had gathered well over a hundred missionaries. I had no idea each mission had so many missionaries. We at last received our companions and heard about everybody else's companion and area transfers. Most of the Mission moved around, which I understand was pretty significant.
My trainer is Elder Bull. He has been out 18 months and is also our District Leader. And he speaks good Spanish. I'm excited to be working with him and hope I learn tons. He tells me that my Spanish is better than his was when we first arrived in the field. I hope I learn fast. Elder Bull's old area was split into 2, and he is now responsible for opening one of the new halves. This means a lot of organization and paperwork. We spent some time getting all we needed from the Mission Home and then swapped around luggage from his old apartment to his new one and then much of the day was over. We went to Walmart for some grocery shopping and then went to a dinner appointment.
Dinner was good with the members we were with. They spoke some English, and I spoke some Spanish. Even Elder Bull spoke mostly English during regular conversation. Their kids were great and the whole family was excited for my first day in the Mission and to help me with my Spanish. The evening did turn out to be a bit of a downer because the investigator who was supposed to have dinner with us and take a lesson didn't show and we don't know why. But the members, the Chy Family, did give us another referral closeby and we visited and made an appointment to come back.
I can do this. The most frustrating feeling is not knowing what is going on. But the thing about a missionaries schedule is that it is full, but not stressful. Things are busy, but not hectic. You never plan more than you can do, and there are many good and worthwhile activities to spend your time on. I hope I adjust fast and learn everything soon. Although I have not had any spiritual manifestations that this is where I am supposed to be, I know I am in the right place. I feel peace of mind being a missionary and am confident that I can quickly understand what I am to do and how I can be successful.
I love you all. I will write again next Wednesday. Take care and write, please.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
week 8
A week from today I will be at the airport preparing for my long flight to Arizona. Okay, so it won't be a long flight, but somebody jokingly said that they might show one episode of a tv show on the flight. Even better, one Hermana in my District did not receive flight plans, but simply travel plans. Her traveling consists of riding with the other missionaries to the airport, staying on the bus, and then getting dropped off at the Salt Lake City mission home. She is excited, and so are we.
As Zone Leaders my companions and I welcomed a new group of missionaries this week. It was so fun to reference them for how far we have all come in the short time we have been here. I have grown here so much in ways that I didn't think I needed to. Although I have not enjoyed every moment, it has all been for my good, and hopefully therefore, for the good of others. It does frighten me a little to think that I will be expected to speak Spanish to real Spanish people next week and teach them about the Gospel. My biggest fear is that they won't understand how much I want them to accept the message I bring.
But those fears are silly. Last night, two Elders from the new District taught the 1st Lesson to us for their first time. They were nervous. They wanted to get it right. Their biggest fear was to screw up and be embarrassed in front of us. As they taught, in English of course, their simplicity brought the testifying Spirit to the Lesson. I was moved strongly as they testified of the Book of Mormon and the Prophet Joseph Smith. At times, I think they weren't sure what to say, but in those times, the Spirit was saying it all.
And so, my friends, even though I am speaking English, I do speak simply. I know that the Book of Mormon is powerful. I know that it will change lives as my life has been changed. I honestly never thought to be a missionary, but here I am, because of that book. Anyone who carries doubts about the Book of Mormon need only to read it. If you feel nothing, then I am a fool. But if you feel a peaceful and calming emotion that makes everything feel right, and a bit better than it seemed before, then I am here for a reason. And an important one. And then, if the Book of Mormon is scripture and brings you closer to God, it is logical to know that Joseph Smith was a Prophet. He truly saw God and Jesus Christ, and as one of those missionaries told me last night, "They told him something IMPORTANT." His vision was important. It was so important that everyone needs to know that it happened. It may seem too simple or too grand, but it is true. With everything I am, I know it is true.
Thank you for the letters and mom, for the snacks and my Halloween costume (we are going to Trick-or-Treat amongst our Zone) and the shirt ... at last :). And Kristen, the cookies were a hit. I know you all too well. Thank you. And to everybody else, thank you for everything.
And so to all, Hola y Adios del CCM (MTC) por el ultimo vez. Yo les amo mucho. Estoy agradecido por todos de ustedes, mis bendiciones mayores.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
As Zone Leaders my companions and I welcomed a new group of missionaries this week. It was so fun to reference them for how far we have all come in the short time we have been here. I have grown here so much in ways that I didn't think I needed to. Although I have not enjoyed every moment, it has all been for my good, and hopefully therefore, for the good of others. It does frighten me a little to think that I will be expected to speak Spanish to real Spanish people next week and teach them about the Gospel. My biggest fear is that they won't understand how much I want them to accept the message I bring.
But those fears are silly. Last night, two Elders from the new District taught the 1st Lesson to us for their first time. They were nervous. They wanted to get it right. Their biggest fear was to screw up and be embarrassed in front of us. As they taught, in English of course, their simplicity brought the testifying Spirit to the Lesson. I was moved strongly as they testified of the Book of Mormon and the Prophet Joseph Smith. At times, I think they weren't sure what to say, but in those times, the Spirit was saying it all.
And so, my friends, even though I am speaking English, I do speak simply. I know that the Book of Mormon is powerful. I know that it will change lives as my life has been changed. I honestly never thought to be a missionary, but here I am, because of that book. Anyone who carries doubts about the Book of Mormon need only to read it. If you feel nothing, then I am a fool. But if you feel a peaceful and calming emotion that makes everything feel right, and a bit better than it seemed before, then I am here for a reason. And an important one. And then, if the Book of Mormon is scripture and brings you closer to God, it is logical to know that Joseph Smith was a Prophet. He truly saw God and Jesus Christ, and as one of those missionaries told me last night, "They told him something IMPORTANT." His vision was important. It was so important that everyone needs to know that it happened. It may seem too simple or too grand, but it is true. With everything I am, I know it is true.
Thank you for the letters and mom, for the snacks and my Halloween costume (we are going to Trick-or-Treat amongst our Zone) and the shirt ... at last :). And Kristen, the cookies were a hit. I know you all too well. Thank you. And to everybody else, thank you for everything.
And so to all, Hola y Adios del CCM (MTC) por el ultimo vez. Yo les amo mucho. Estoy agradecido por todos de ustedes, mis bendiciones mayores.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
week 7
Week 7 brought on some changes in the MTC. My district is now the oldest in our zone. On Wednesday, my companions and I will be welcoming a brand new district of 10 elders. We are their zone leaders. Excuse me while I laugh that I am in missionary leadership. It just seems strange to me. But I am grateful for it. I've gotten to know a lot more people through this call and it is wonderful.
With all the departing districts since we arrived, the five elders in my district have accumulated many gifts, traditional rites of missionaryship if you will. And soon, it will be time for us to bestow these meaningless things onto others for them to figure out what to do with. These are things such as a paper-organizer box, or a bendable glow in the dark skeleton, etc. Who will I deem worthy of such honors? Sometimes the MTC feels like scout camp.
Today I face the barber. I am nervous, and I did my best to avoid it, but I need a haircut. After weeks of parting my hair to make myself feel more like a missionary, I finally gave it up. A part in your hair is not longer a requirement for missionaries, there are few people that have one. As for the Barber, I hope they know how to follow instructions, I don't want to feel self-conscious about my hair.
But all of these things that I've talked about really only signify that our time in the MTC is waning. In just a few short weeks we will be teaching real people the real gospel in real Spanish. Really. I thought I would be nervous at this point. But you know, I've realized that as long as we are doing what the Lord wants us to, we need never to be nervous, for anything. I know I have spent a lot of time with uneasy anticipation for good things and with negative outlook on change. What was I worried for? God has never led me in a direction I didn't like. I have such an appreciation for the details of our lives that were planned ages before we ever came here.
I love the Gospel. I love that the Atonement is for everybody, ever day, all the time. Jesus Christ is our Savior and God wants us to be happy with Him, nothing more. I love you all and miss you and pray for you. Take care. And don't be nervous.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
With all the departing districts since we arrived, the five elders in my district have accumulated many gifts, traditional rites of missionaryship if you will. And soon, it will be time for us to bestow these meaningless things onto others for them to figure out what to do with. These are things such as a paper-organizer box, or a bendable glow in the dark skeleton, etc. Who will I deem worthy of such honors? Sometimes the MTC feels like scout camp.
Today I face the barber. I am nervous, and I did my best to avoid it, but I need a haircut. After weeks of parting my hair to make myself feel more like a missionary, I finally gave it up. A part in your hair is not longer a requirement for missionaries, there are few people that have one. As for the Barber, I hope they know how to follow instructions, I don't want to feel self-conscious about my hair.
But all of these things that I've talked about really only signify that our time in the MTC is waning. In just a few short weeks we will be teaching real people the real gospel in real Spanish. Really. I thought I would be nervous at this point. But you know, I've realized that as long as we are doing what the Lord wants us to, we need never to be nervous, for anything. I know I have spent a lot of time with uneasy anticipation for good things and with negative outlook on change. What was I worried for? God has never led me in a direction I didn't like. I have such an appreciation for the details of our lives that were planned ages before we ever came here.
I love the Gospel. I love that the Atonement is for everybody, ever day, all the time. Jesus Christ is our Savior and God wants us to be happy with Him, nothing more. I love you all and miss you and pray for you. Take care. And don't be nervous.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
week ... 6?
I don't even know what week it is. I do know however that in three weeks from today, I will be leaving the MTC. Of course by then I will be fluent in Spanish and a wiz with doctrine. Okay, maybe those things will come a little after three weeks.
We got a new district this week, which is not unusual. But this District is the first since we arrived that has Hermanas. Our Hermanas jumped onto the new friendship opportunities and we now have an entire District that eats lunch with us, both Hermanas and Elders. Some of our Elders need to be reminder to focus after talking to some of the new Hermanas...."Enfoque!" As for me, I just run faster than them at gym time, so I see them a lot and they are good friends.
Speaking of Sister Missionaries in general, I think they are wonderful. Unlike Elders, they have grown up, and weren't idiots to begin with, which makes them powerful servants who are mature. If any girl is considering a mission- don't avoid other things in life, but don't hesitate if a mission becomes an opportunity for you! The world needs you, because let's face it, many people would rather listen to you than an Elder.
This Sunday, my companions and I were asked to be Zone Leaders. This is a position that works under our Branch President (a branch and a zone are the same in the MTC) on a more personal level with the missionaries in the Zone. This is one of those times where I worry about the inadequacy to serve, but like President Eyring, I know the Lord won't let me fall.
And speaking of President Eyring and keeping journals and remembering great experiences, I've been working on a project. It sounds silly, but it is basically my own brass plates. You could call it memoirs. I have been writing about experiences and places I've gone and people I've known. This has been in itself a new and wonderful experience. Looking back from here, it's easy to recognize the powerful influence of the hand of God clear back into my childhood. Small details of life that seemed happenstance at the time now show themselves to be utter miracles, railway switches in my life. Like President Hinckley's analogy, I have found myself in Louisiana rather than Pennsylvania (not that I have any particular dislike or preference in any way to Louisiana or favor Pennsylvania, they are just different).
I know that God plans an immense amount for our lives. This week, I urge you to stop and consider a time that changed your course. Think of the small things surrounding that time. Then recognize it for the miracle that it was. And also remember that though the jaws of Hell open to consume you, it is and was for your good. (I wish I had my scriptures here so I could quote that and reference it for you--it's in D&C). Looking at what God has done for me already in life, I am humbled, and wonder what could be in store for the future. No doubt more need of forgiveness, more work, and definitely more miracles. Consider what God has done for you and what He will do more in the future. He loves us.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
p.s. to my family, thank you for your letters.... those of you that have sent them. I promise, they do not serve as a distraction to my missionary service. I love you all.
We got a new district this week, which is not unusual. But this District is the first since we arrived that has Hermanas. Our Hermanas jumped onto the new friendship opportunities and we now have an entire District that eats lunch with us, both Hermanas and Elders. Some of our Elders need to be reminder to focus after talking to some of the new Hermanas...."Enfoque!" As for me, I just run faster than them at gym time, so I see them a lot and they are good friends.
Speaking of Sister Missionaries in general, I think they are wonderful. Unlike Elders, they have grown up, and weren't idiots to begin with, which makes them powerful servants who are mature. If any girl is considering a mission- don't avoid other things in life, but don't hesitate if a mission becomes an opportunity for you! The world needs you, because let's face it, many people would rather listen to you than an Elder.
This Sunday, my companions and I were asked to be Zone Leaders. This is a position that works under our Branch President (a branch and a zone are the same in the MTC) on a more personal level with the missionaries in the Zone. This is one of those times where I worry about the inadequacy to serve, but like President Eyring, I know the Lord won't let me fall.
And speaking of President Eyring and keeping journals and remembering great experiences, I've been working on a project. It sounds silly, but it is basically my own brass plates. You could call it memoirs. I have been writing about experiences and places I've gone and people I've known. This has been in itself a new and wonderful experience. Looking back from here, it's easy to recognize the powerful influence of the hand of God clear back into my childhood. Small details of life that seemed happenstance at the time now show themselves to be utter miracles, railway switches in my life. Like President Hinckley's analogy, I have found myself in Louisiana rather than Pennsylvania (not that I have any particular dislike or preference in any way to Louisiana or favor Pennsylvania, they are just different).
I know that God plans an immense amount for our lives. This week, I urge you to stop and consider a time that changed your course. Think of the small things surrounding that time. Then recognize it for the miracle that it was. And also remember that though the jaws of Hell open to consume you, it is and was for your good. (I wish I had my scriptures here so I could quote that and reference it for you--it's in D&C). Looking at what God has done for me already in life, I am humbled, and wonder what could be in store for the future. No doubt more need of forgiveness, more work, and definitely more miracles. Consider what God has done for you and what He will do more in the future. He loves us.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
p.s. to my family, thank you for your letters.... those of you that have sent them. I promise, they do not serve as a distraction to my missionary service. I love you all.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
week ... I don't know
Well, we reached our halfway mark in the MTC at midnight on Friday night. Just yesterday we bid farewell to a large District of Elders in our Zone. We had grown attached to several of them and it is strange to see them go. Just a reminder that the MTC never stays still. Before we know it, it will be our turn, though our destinations aren't quite as foreign as Paraguay or Chile. Every missionary in my District will be serving in the States--and every other District in our Zone has foreign destinations. We are called 'spoiled' and I can't say that I disagree.
Conference in the MTC was a strange affair. Really, I just wish my seat wasn't so uncomfortable and it might have been perfect. I breathed fresh air again when the Tabernacle Choir sang--not a single Elder in my District brought a single CD, including myself. Great music has been sucked out of my life, and it's almost painful. I did however spend some time at a piano on Sunday night. I played hymns for a while and then tried to play some classical pieces from memory it wasn't the best concert you've ever heard, but Elder Rutt was impressed I had memorized so much music.
Spanish is coming. Slowly but surely. I am working very hard to speak and draw from the vocabulary in my head, not vocab that I look at in a book. There is value in memorizing phrases, but too many Elders find themselves unaware of grammar principles because they never thought about how they apply. I have signed up for individual tutoring, not because I am behind, but because it is extra practice. The language teaching in the MTC is nothing short of miraculous. Two of my good friends from Nauvoo, Elders Black and Johnson, arrived in the MTC this week. I had only been here for 4 weeks and was able to bear a detailed testimony to them (except I mixed up the words for 'strong' and 'strength' several times without realizing it). We can teach about Joseph Smith and the pattern of dispensations and prophets all from words and principles we already know. It's a miracle.
And of course, my testimony is very strength. I mean strong. Especially that the Love of God and His individual care for us is incomprehensible. He knows us literally, as a dear friend. He knows our quirks and faults, but He doesn't worry about those. He knows what makes us happy, what lifts our Spirits, what draws love out of us and helps us to connect to others. The Father of all things, a being with such supreme power and authority truly does care about me, of all things. That is significant.
This is the Church of Jesus Christ. No other church exists that carries the authority to act in the name of Jesus Christ and no other church is entitled to Revelation by a prophet. Gordon B. Hinckley is a prophet! His counselors and the Quorum of the Twelve are servants of the Lord! I hope your life was improved by listening to them. I hope you were improved by them, I know I was.
I love you all so much. I love you all so much, that I want to hear how all of you are doing.... But really, I've been thinking this week about where I came from. Why am I the way I am? What got me here? And the answer I came up with is the heroes that have always surrounded me. To my family--I look up to you as heroes. Every day I see more ways you have been powerful influences to me. And to the many friends who might read this blog--I assure you, I think about each one of you. I promise that you have changed me and made me into a better person. Each one of you feels like a gift that has changed my life. I am honored to know you. (So write to me!)
So, until next week everybody, God be with you, although I know He already is.
With Love,
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Conference in the MTC was a strange affair. Really, I just wish my seat wasn't so uncomfortable and it might have been perfect. I breathed fresh air again when the Tabernacle Choir sang--not a single Elder in my District brought a single CD, including myself. Great music has been sucked out of my life, and it's almost painful. I did however spend some time at a piano on Sunday night. I played hymns for a while and then tried to play some classical pieces from memory it wasn't the best concert you've ever heard, but Elder Rutt was impressed I had memorized so much music.
Spanish is coming. Slowly but surely. I am working very hard to speak and draw from the vocabulary in my head, not vocab that I look at in a book. There is value in memorizing phrases, but too many Elders find themselves unaware of grammar principles because they never thought about how they apply. I have signed up for individual tutoring, not because I am behind, but because it is extra practice. The language teaching in the MTC is nothing short of miraculous. Two of my good friends from Nauvoo, Elders Black and Johnson, arrived in the MTC this week. I had only been here for 4 weeks and was able to bear a detailed testimony to them (except I mixed up the words for 'strong' and 'strength' several times without realizing it). We can teach about Joseph Smith and the pattern of dispensations and prophets all from words and principles we already know. It's a miracle.
And of course, my testimony is very strength. I mean strong. Especially that the Love of God and His individual care for us is incomprehensible. He knows us literally, as a dear friend. He knows our quirks and faults, but He doesn't worry about those. He knows what makes us happy, what lifts our Spirits, what draws love out of us and helps us to connect to others. The Father of all things, a being with such supreme power and authority truly does care about me, of all things. That is significant.
This is the Church of Jesus Christ. No other church exists that carries the authority to act in the name of Jesus Christ and no other church is entitled to Revelation by a prophet. Gordon B. Hinckley is a prophet! His counselors and the Quorum of the Twelve are servants of the Lord! I hope your life was improved by listening to them. I hope you were improved by them, I know I was.
I love you all so much. I love you all so much, that I want to hear how all of you are doing.... But really, I've been thinking this week about where I came from. Why am I the way I am? What got me here? And the answer I came up with is the heroes that have always surrounded me. To my family--I look up to you as heroes. Every day I see more ways you have been powerful influences to me. And to the many friends who might read this blog--I assure you, I think about each one of you. I promise that you have changed me and made me into a better person. Each one of you feels like a gift that has changed my life. I am honored to know you. (So write to me!)
So, until next week everybody, God be with you, although I know He already is.
With Love,
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
week 4
Can I emphasize enough how fast things change in the MTC? Wow. Thank you to all who write. I recommend reading Proverbs 25:25. Those who don't write.... read it as well and then guilt yourself into writing me. You know how to reach me.
So being in a threesome makes things unusual. I love both of my companions, but what can I say, three's a crowd. We taught our first lesson entirely in Spanish this week. I stumble and fear that I am hopelessly slow, but it's coming. There are a few more basic grammar principles to learn and then it will be a whole lot of trying to figure it out.
I continue to see people that I know, including one of the Elders from the Nauvoo Brass Band. Elder Johnson and I spent an entire dinner reminiscing and catching each other up on happenings amongst our Nauvoo friends. Elder Black and a different Elder Johnson both report to the MTC on Wednesday this week and I'm excited. I wonder which Nauvoo song we will sing first. Along with people I know, there's always connections to be made in the church. Everybody here comes from someplace and is going someplace and everybody wants you to know their friends. Dad, I met some Worthams from Santa Clara who know Grandma and she knew your name. Sister Wortham very well recognized aunt Mary's name. -As a side note, get this, the Worthams are serving their 9th mission. They've been going on missions since before I was born.
My testimony of Jesus Christ continues to grow. He is our Savior. I know it, and I know I have hope because of it. My testimony of prayer has grown. The message of the Gospel is that Jesus Christ will never fail us. Prayer is always available and is real, legitimate communication with our Father. My testimony of the power of the Book of Mormon is strong. Revelation comes from that book. I know that the words are for us, each of us, on an individual level. It is promised that we will find answers from the Book of Mormon. When in doubt, search it prayerfully. I feel like an Apostle testifying and I just keep waving my hand for emphasis. These things really are true! They aren't just nice thoughts or fabrications of fantasy to make us feel better- They are real! And I wish everybody was aware of that.
We have so many amazing firesides and devotionals and meetings. This Sunday we had a "Mission Council" with the whole MTC. It was 2 hours of the MTC Presidency and their wives and it was amazing. Their talks all seemed for me! I ate it up. And now I can't wait until General Conference. Every six months, the importance of Conference becomes so much more significant. Here I am testifying of a Prophet, and have I ever really listened? Have I ever personalized what he says? Have I ever stopped to think that the words of a Prophet are for me? Oh, how I wish I could go back and listen again now that I've realized these things. The Gospel is so vitally important, and I didn't ever know it.
I love you all. I hope you are well. I pray for you and know that God is taking care of you. My suggestion for this week is to not waste time with discouragement. Sometimes it may feel as though you deserve to feel bad about things, but Christ never did. If you are discouraged, pray for a greater testimony of the Savior. Truly, we can achieve all things with the help of the Lord. Except maybe extend my 30 minutes of email time.
Until next week,
-Elder Sam Bostwick
P.S. My mom's birthday is this Saturday, the 6th of October. If you know her, make her feel special on Saturday.
So being in a threesome makes things unusual. I love both of my companions, but what can I say, three's a crowd. We taught our first lesson entirely in Spanish this week. I stumble and fear that I am hopelessly slow, but it's coming. There are a few more basic grammar principles to learn and then it will be a whole lot of trying to figure it out.
I continue to see people that I know, including one of the Elders from the Nauvoo Brass Band. Elder Johnson and I spent an entire dinner reminiscing and catching each other up on happenings amongst our Nauvoo friends. Elder Black and a different Elder Johnson both report to the MTC on Wednesday this week and I'm excited. I wonder which Nauvoo song we will sing first. Along with people I know, there's always connections to be made in the church. Everybody here comes from someplace and is going someplace and everybody wants you to know their friends. Dad, I met some Worthams from Santa Clara who know Grandma and she knew your name. Sister Wortham very well recognized aunt Mary's name. -As a side note, get this, the Worthams are serving their 9th mission. They've been going on missions since before I was born.
My testimony of Jesus Christ continues to grow. He is our Savior. I know it, and I know I have hope because of it. My testimony of prayer has grown. The message of the Gospel is that Jesus Christ will never fail us. Prayer is always available and is real, legitimate communication with our Father. My testimony of the power of the Book of Mormon is strong. Revelation comes from that book. I know that the words are for us, each of us, on an individual level. It is promised that we will find answers from the Book of Mormon. When in doubt, search it prayerfully. I feel like an Apostle testifying and I just keep waving my hand for emphasis. These things really are true! They aren't just nice thoughts or fabrications of fantasy to make us feel better- They are real! And I wish everybody was aware of that.
We have so many amazing firesides and devotionals and meetings. This Sunday we had a "Mission Council" with the whole MTC. It was 2 hours of the MTC Presidency and their wives and it was amazing. Their talks all seemed for me! I ate it up. And now I can't wait until General Conference. Every six months, the importance of Conference becomes so much more significant. Here I am testifying of a Prophet, and have I ever really listened? Have I ever personalized what he says? Have I ever stopped to think that the words of a Prophet are for me? Oh, how I wish I could go back and listen again now that I've realized these things. The Gospel is so vitally important, and I didn't ever know it.
I love you all. I hope you are well. I pray for you and know that God is taking care of you. My suggestion for this week is to not waste time with discouragement. Sometimes it may feel as though you deserve to feel bad about things, but Christ never did. If you are discouraged, pray for a greater testimony of the Savior. Truly, we can achieve all things with the help of the Lord. Except maybe extend my 30 minutes of email time.
Until next week,
-Elder Sam Bostwick
P.S. My mom's birthday is this Saturday, the 6th of October. If you know her, make her feel special on Saturday.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
week 3
It is still amazing to me how much life can change in one week when you don't actually go anywhere for weeks on end. Much happened this week.
The biggest event is that we lost one of the Elders from our District. He had to take his leave early because of some panic attacks and we miss him and pray for him. This means that E. Nauman and I have a new companion. E. Rutt. Both of my companions are from Washington State and keep finding people they both know. They even attended the same funeral once, although didn't notice each other. It's also funny that my first companion in Nauvoo was from Washington. 3 of 4 companions so far, Washington must be a pretty good state.
As great as the MTC is, it is also a prison. We smashed our heads against our window that doesn't open very well to watch the BYU Homecoming fireworks. It was past curfew and we couldn't be out of our building, so that was the best view we could get. It's strange to think how close BYU is. Literally a parking lot and a street and you could be on BYU Campus. We hear faint commentaries and even the marching band sometimes.
And as you could expect as a result from close confinement, the MTC is an incubator of infectious germs and viruses. I've got a cough that is persistent and really cannot be treated in any way. It's something I'm trying not to share, but already other Elders in my District are showing signs of illness.
Having a cough and therefore not wanting to run during gym time or else endure fits of hacking, I have had some extra reading time. I read through the book "Our Heritage" and was amazed at how many of the stories I already knew. In many other things I am becoming a sponge wanting to suck up as much knowledge as I can for sheer interest. This is new for me, but I really like it. I also laid out study plans and goals for the next two years, and I might end up needing new ones because they aren't accelerrated enough for my new tastes. Maybe my attitudes will change in the field, but I hope not. I also truly hope that my attitudes won't change when I come back and begin learning about math and writing essays again. Those things seem slightly less interesting, but I hope I can apply this new fire.
Spanish is going well. Not strangely or miraculously well, but well enough. We have learned most of the concepts already and the next step will be to figure out how to apply them. I wrote a letter in Spanish to Mom and Dad and I've also written a few talks in Spanish. Nothing fancy, but understandable, which is great. The Elders who have been here 2 weeks longer are also much further than us, which gives us hope. As for teaching the lessons, we still teach in English, but it is going well.
We taught the Plan of Salvation a few times yesterday and it made me think. Do we really realize what the Atonement means for us? Are we actually applying it enough? Are we expressing enough gratitude for this outrageous gift? I challenge anybody who reads this to take some serious thought and study about the Atonement. Make it personal. Make it real. Make it a constantly active part of your life and every challenge you face will become easier, I promise.
I pray for you all, and have found it in my heart to miss home. I hope to hear from you all, letters mean so much and lift me up so greatly. I love you, and I'll see you all later.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
The biggest event is that we lost one of the Elders from our District. He had to take his leave early because of some panic attacks and we miss him and pray for him. This means that E. Nauman and I have a new companion. E. Rutt. Both of my companions are from Washington State and keep finding people they both know. They even attended the same funeral once, although didn't notice each other. It's also funny that my first companion in Nauvoo was from Washington. 3 of 4 companions so far, Washington must be a pretty good state.
As great as the MTC is, it is also a prison. We smashed our heads against our window that doesn't open very well to watch the BYU Homecoming fireworks. It was past curfew and we couldn't be out of our building, so that was the best view we could get. It's strange to think how close BYU is. Literally a parking lot and a street and you could be on BYU Campus. We hear faint commentaries and even the marching band sometimes.
And as you could expect as a result from close confinement, the MTC is an incubator of infectious germs and viruses. I've got a cough that is persistent and really cannot be treated in any way. It's something I'm trying not to share, but already other Elders in my District are showing signs of illness.
Having a cough and therefore not wanting to run during gym time or else endure fits of hacking, I have had some extra reading time. I read through the book "Our Heritage" and was amazed at how many of the stories I already knew. In many other things I am becoming a sponge wanting to suck up as much knowledge as I can for sheer interest. This is new for me, but I really like it. I also laid out study plans and goals for the next two years, and I might end up needing new ones because they aren't accelerrated enough for my new tastes. Maybe my attitudes will change in the field, but I hope not. I also truly hope that my attitudes won't change when I come back and begin learning about math and writing essays again. Those things seem slightly less interesting, but I hope I can apply this new fire.
Spanish is going well. Not strangely or miraculously well, but well enough. We have learned most of the concepts already and the next step will be to figure out how to apply them. I wrote a letter in Spanish to Mom and Dad and I've also written a few talks in Spanish. Nothing fancy, but understandable, which is great. The Elders who have been here 2 weeks longer are also much further than us, which gives us hope. As for teaching the lessons, we still teach in English, but it is going well.
We taught the Plan of Salvation a few times yesterday and it made me think. Do we really realize what the Atonement means for us? Are we actually applying it enough? Are we expressing enough gratitude for this outrageous gift? I challenge anybody who reads this to take some serious thought and study about the Atonement. Make it personal. Make it real. Make it a constantly active part of your life and every challenge you face will become easier, I promise.
I pray for you all, and have found it in my heart to miss home. I hope to hear from you all, letters mean so much and lift me up so greatly. I love you, and I'll see you all later.
-Elder Sam Bostwick
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
week 2
As week two is almost over, I am astounded at how much progress has been made in just one week. This is one of those surreal times where time seems to have it's own very strange balance for running.
In this week, a new Elder was having trouble with being at the MTC. He wasn't happy and had a lot of things at home that were unresolved. Me, another Elder in my District, and one of the Zone Leaders were very encouraging for him to stay and give it a try. Elder Wise (ZL) and I stayed up with this Elder one night going over each of his concerns and working them out. We testified to him that the Lord gave him his call for a reason and that he has a purpose in being here. We also testified of the blessings of service and that Jesus is the Christ and could take away all of his depressions and discouragements. Elder Wise had been in a very similar situation and could relate in almost every way. We promised him peace and happiness if he would stay. The Elder left on Sunday night. It was heartbreaking. If losing an investigator feels anything like that, I need to prepare myself for it.
I suppose if anything, all that talking with the Elder solidified my purpose and goals in being on a mission. I know truly know the things I bore testimony of, and I know the truth of the blessings we receive. And now Elder Wise is gone, left for Argentina and I will share that memory with him forever. That's how the MTC is I suppose.
Elder Sam Bostwick
In this week, a new Elder was having trouble with being at the MTC. He wasn't happy and had a lot of things at home that were unresolved. Me, another Elder in my District, and one of the Zone Leaders were very encouraging for him to stay and give it a try. Elder Wise (ZL) and I stayed up with this Elder one night going over each of his concerns and working them out. We testified to him that the Lord gave him his call for a reason and that he has a purpose in being here. We also testified of the blessings of service and that Jesus is the Christ and could take away all of his depressions and discouragements. Elder Wise had been in a very similar situation and could relate in almost every way. We promised him peace and happiness if he would stay. The Elder left on Sunday night. It was heartbreaking. If losing an investigator feels anything like that, I need to prepare myself for it.
I suppose if anything, all that talking with the Elder solidified my purpose and goals in being on a mission. I know truly know the things I bore testimony of, and I know the truth of the blessings we receive. And now Elder Wise is gone, left for Argentina and I will share that memory with him forever. That's how the MTC is I suppose.
Elder Sam Bostwick
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
week 1
So I am near one week in the MTC. As a piece of advice to anyone going into the MTC or anybody who would just like to know a bit about it, hang in there until the first Sunday. Each District has two teachers that help them learn the Gospel lessons and their language if going to a language mission. The teachers are inspired on how to teach, but it can be frustrating to begin. They talk mostly in the mission language, which you don't know, and you just have to kind of figure out what they are saying. Sunday is the first day you don't have classes with them, so it gives you your first chance to digest what has been happening.
Also in your first few days, you sit in a lot of seminars that make you sleepy. But they are very worthwhile. These meetings are similar to what it is like when the families drop off their missionaries. You take notes and soak it all in...even though you're tired. It's hard to believe how much sitting we do. In one of these meetings, we were told to convince ourselves that our companion is perfect, and he will be. I actually don't have to pretend, he is perfect.
Elder Nauman is from Elma, Washington (on the west side of the state near Seattle) and just graduated from High School in June. He is the type of person who has been waiting his whole life for his mission. He even took Spanish his last two years of high school, so he can answer most questions we have had so far. He was captain of the football team, on the basketball team, sang in the show choir, and is spiritual and prepared for a mission. Wow, good thing we don't compare ourselves....
The food- everyone has myths about the food in the MTC. Here's the truth. There is nothing wrong with the orange juice. The food isn't as good as home cooking. It is not as bad as regular cafeteria food. If you have eaten at a BYU cafeteria, you've eaten at the MTC. The most remarkable thing about it is that there is as much as you could ever want for every meal. This is a bad thing for some Elders who can't control themselves. As for me, I have quit sugar as a personal goal and it keeps out all the desserts. I eat salads and wraps, and Mom, I eat all my vegetables. It is a bit disappointing when they bring in the BYU Creamery Ice Cream Bar. Oh well.
I also love gym time. With all the sitting we do, it's necessary to expel all the energy you can in the 50 minute gym period. I run almost the entire time. It feels good to channel stress and worries into some good old hard running. Most of the Elders and Sisters think I'm crazy, but that's alright, I sleep really well at night, which I was worried about.
I try to miss you all, but I don't really have much time to think about home. If I did, I wouldn't be concentrating on what I'm doing. I'm glad that I've had enough experience being away from home, that homesickness is not something I am dealing with. Maybe I'll feel it in a few months or a year, but by then, Grandma and Grandpa will be back in Arizona and I'll be fine. I love you and pray for you. God be with you 'til we meet again.
-Samuel the Elder
P.S. My email is swbostwick@myldsmail.net
My DearElder.com address is
Elder Sam Bostwick
Provo MTC Mission
MTC Box# 273 Departure Date: November 6th
Mission Code: Arizona Tempe
2005 N. 900 E.
Provo UT 84604-1793
(I think, I'm not really sure how it works, but that should be all the info. you need. Congratulations Jon for figuring it out already.)
Also in your first few days, you sit in a lot of seminars that make you sleepy. But they are very worthwhile. These meetings are similar to what it is like when the families drop off their missionaries. You take notes and soak it all in...even though you're tired. It's hard to believe how much sitting we do. In one of these meetings, we were told to convince ourselves that our companion is perfect, and he will be. I actually don't have to pretend, he is perfect.
Elder Nauman is from Elma, Washington (on the west side of the state near Seattle) and just graduated from High School in June. He is the type of person who has been waiting his whole life for his mission. He even took Spanish his last two years of high school, so he can answer most questions we have had so far. He was captain of the football team, on the basketball team, sang in the show choir, and is spiritual and prepared for a mission. Wow, good thing we don't compare ourselves....
The food- everyone has myths about the food in the MTC. Here's the truth. There is nothing wrong with the orange juice. The food isn't as good as home cooking. It is not as bad as regular cafeteria food. If you have eaten at a BYU cafeteria, you've eaten at the MTC. The most remarkable thing about it is that there is as much as you could ever want for every meal. This is a bad thing for some Elders who can't control themselves. As for me, I have quit sugar as a personal goal and it keeps out all the desserts. I eat salads and wraps, and Mom, I eat all my vegetables. It is a bit disappointing when they bring in the BYU Creamery Ice Cream Bar. Oh well.
I also love gym time. With all the sitting we do, it's necessary to expel all the energy you can in the 50 minute gym period. I run almost the entire time. It feels good to channel stress and worries into some good old hard running. Most of the Elders and Sisters think I'm crazy, but that's alright, I sleep really well at night, which I was worried about.
I try to miss you all, but I don't really have much time to think about home. If I did, I wouldn't be concentrating on what I'm doing. I'm glad that I've had enough experience being away from home, that homesickness is not something I am dealing with. Maybe I'll feel it in a few months or a year, but by then, Grandma and Grandpa will be back in Arizona and I'll be fine. I love you and pray for you. God be with you 'til we meet again.
-Samuel the Elder
P.S. My email is swbostwick@myldsmail.net
My DearElder.com address is
Elder Sam Bostwick
Provo MTC Mission
MTC Box# 273 Departure Date: November 6th
Mission Code: Arizona Tempe
2005 N. 900 E.
Provo UT 84604-1793
(I think, I'm not really sure how it works, but that should be all the info. you need. Congratulations Jon for figuring it out already.)
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
mailing addresses
Elder Samuel Wayne Bostwick
Arizona Tempe Mission
1871 E. Del Rio Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282-2822
until 6 November use:
MTC Mailbox #273
AZ-TEM 1106
2005 No. 900 E.
Provo, UT 84604
Arizona Tempe Mission
1871 E. Del Rio Drive
Tempe, AZ 85282-2822
until 6 November use:
MTC Mailbox #273
AZ-TEM 1106
2005 No. 900 E.
Provo, UT 84604
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