September 1st, 1994 – Thursday
Today went by pretty fast. This morning we studied a few things. The new district is pretty good. I don’t know them very well, but they seem to be cool. Tomorrow we get to go to the Temple. I’m excited. Today I got a lot done with my Libro de Mormon. I have started to do the alphabetical order deal now. It’s coming along. Today I studied Charla 3 & I’m getting to know it better. I still need to practice a lot. I need to learn them well. I got a package from Gwen Petty today. That was super nice of her! She sent me cookies & the same type candy I gave her in Florida – Werthers. They’re good. I guess she visited Sister Barney (Gwen knows everybody) & dropped them off. Gwen is an awesome girl. I’m excited that she’s keeping in touch with me. I should’ve kissed her that night on the beach. DANG IT!! Anyways, I mustn’t worry about those things. I’ve got my work to concentrate on. The Lord has blessed me very much. I can pretty much understand Spanish. I can talk enough to get by. I need to learn the language within a month. It’s my goal!!
September 2nd, 1994 – Friday
Today was pretty darn cool. This morning we went to the temple. Elder Ashworth & I did sealings. I acted as the son. It was neat to do. Everyone in there was relaxed. It was pretty peaceful. We came back, then went to class at 10am. The teacher told us our ½ P-day was this afternoon. Why? Why not on Tuesday? I asked the dude in charge & he said he had to time to make everything “convenient” for everyone. Whatever. So we went to gym. It’s fun playing hoops. I’m going to miss it when I leave to Ecuador. This afternoon I got a few things organized. Mom sent me a package with a camera & photo album. She’s awesome! Also she sent me some goodies. I wrote Gwen to thank her for her package. Also I wrote the fam. I probably won’t be able to write them for a while. This Tuesday I’m going to do my laundry. I don’t want to have it done today & bring dirty clothes with me to Ecuador! Nope! So Tuesday I need to pack & wash my clothes & get a haircut. Tonight we did all personal study. It’s ok because I got a lot done. I saw Randy. He said Jenna needs an operation. She’s in my prayers! A week from today I’ll be in Ecuador! So weird, but very exciting!
September 3rd, 1994 – Saturday
Today was sweet! This morning we taught the 1st discussion. 1st, tonight I saw Meredith, Kristen Bowman, Jenna & Randy. I saw them (Meredith and Kristen) before class today. I didn’t talk to them, but I had a feeling that Kristen would be here. After class, Elder Ashworth & I went. Kristen, Mere & me & my comp went into a video room & talked. It was cool finding out how Meredith was doing. She gave me Kamee Larkin’s address. Ty Kidman came by. Mere was totally pumped to see him, & wants to write him. It was great to see Meredith. Jenna gave me her flip chart she made for my birthday! It’s so AWESOME! I’m excited to have it! Jenna is so crafty. This morning we taught the 1st discussion to a girl named Suzanna. She was from Ecuador. She was so pretty & I just started to love the people of Ecuador. I’ll be there soon. I felt the spirit super strong during the Joseph Smith part. AFter this I put the charla down & just asked her how her missionaries answered her questions. She said all she could remember was that they were two men who wholeheartedly believed what they were doing. She remembers only their testimonies and she said she just believed them. I want an investigator just like Suzanna! This afternoon we did situations. I felt the spirit super strong during one part. I just knew what to say next & how to tie it all together! It’s so awesome to feel the Spirit working in you! Today has been great! Tonight we watched “The 1st Vision” in Spanish. I did some personal study. Some guy saw me give Meredith a kiss. I bet I’m turned in. If I am, that’s ok. I’ll explain the situation & all should be well.
September 4th, 1994 – Sunday
Today was SWEET! This morning Elder Peterson gave the lesson on God. It was good. I talked about how we need to realize each time we sin we’re adding a bit more pain to Christ. If we don’t, then that’s pain that Christ wouldn’t need to have. We had mission conference today. President Barney never did call me up because of giving Meredith a kiss. The meetings were excellent except that a Branch President behind me kept talking so I finally moved. He needs to grow up, even though he is old. President Barney is cool. He always chooses people out of the crowd to bare testimonies. Scares the mess out of everyone. Elder Ashworth & I went to a Branch Correlation Meeting. I guess Sister Canter has opened up a little bit more, which is good. I hope everything works out good with the Sisters. Sacrament Meeting was amazing today. It was a huge spiritual uplifter. It was testimony meeting. Elder Goettsche said he would like to work with me in the field. I pray we can! I feel we would do so awesome together! Elder Rotz bore testimony of his family & his example for his brother. Elder Spencer bore testimony of finding his pre-existence friend in Ecuador. It touched me & made me realize that my friend is waiting for me to teach him the gospel. They both said kind words about me, which I appreciated. Elder Ashworth expressed his thanks to our district for loving him & being his family. He let me know he loved me also. President Gifford asked me to speak last. I was very grateful for the opportunity. I hope I helped some missionary with my words. I love bearing testimony, it always strengthens mine even more. I said I would never deny the truthfulness of this church, & I never will. This evening we had a Transfer Meeting. President Barney spoke. I realized how close I am to getting out & working hard. I hope I’m ready. Today I fasted that I’d open my mouth right away. I need this strength to do this. I need to have zero fear! Tonight we had a fireside. It was on Charity. I need to have charity & show it to all my companions. It’s a must if I want to grow closer to Christ. After, I talked to President Barney & thanked him for his help with the sisters. He’s a loving, awesome man! Sister Barney recognized my name, and I told her about Gwen. She said she was having dinner this Thursday with Gwen, so I told her to tell Gwen “Hello”. Today I’ve been working on the flipcharts Jenna made for me. They are in the back of my Book of Mormon (in Spanish). I feel a little bit more prepared. I can’t believe how soon I’ll be in Ecuador. I need to pray for strength to resist the temptations of Satan. I need to have strength! I love this work! It is definitely run by Jesus Christ!! How comforting!
September 5th, 1994 – Monday
Today was unbelievable! Tonight we had an awesome experience. Our teacher had us each go to different rooms & sit there for 15 minutes to think of what it means to wear the plaque of Jesus Christ – to have His name on my chest. I sat there, felt the spirit very strongly. I read a few scriptures & prayed. I prayed for help to realize what it meant to wear Christ’s name. We returned & made a circle. I was second to last to talk. I don’t remember a lot of the words said, but I remember that I realized how protected I am. I know I have the Lord on my side. With him on my side, I have confidence. I’m a representative of Jesus Christ, and he will help me to succeed. I also realized that Christ stood up in heaven, and volunteered to take upon Him all of our pain. It’s something I realized when I read “He took the whippin” (or something). I read it tonight & it was awesome. Tonight Elder Ashworth bore testimony. He bore it with force! He’s going to be a great missionary! Tonight Sister Bowlden gave me a bag full of books from the welfare class that will help me on my mission. She’s so nice & strong. Today Sister Canter asked me if I was scared of her. I told her I was scared of her to blow up again at me, but I’m not scared of her. Tonight I also talked to Randy. We talked for like an hour. He gave me a lot of advice – to get involved in the ward – AT ALL TIMES!!; live your own mission, not your companions. Talk to anything & everything that moves! Have a good attitude everyday; learn everything you can from good & bad companions; Have fun and be yourself!! This is great advice & I plan to apply it. This morning we taught Charla 2 – It was weak because the missionaries we were teaching were sleeping. Nice. Today was my last gym time. I’m excited to leave, I’ll miss basketball, but that’s not important. What’s important is my calling and effire I put forth to fill it! I LOVE JESUS CHRIST AND HE LOVES ME!!!
September 6th, 1994 – Tuesday – Last day at the MTC
Tonight I had an unbelievable experience! President Boyd K. Packer spoke tonight. He explained to us how a few things worked when Prophets die. He would always mention things like “The 12 &I had a good talk today” and things like that. It is so hard for me to think of all those men talking together or being in one place! Those men are so powerful! President Packer explained to us how to receive revelation. He mentioned that all the levels of the church receive the same feelings for revelation. I just think Apostles know exactly when they are receiving it & for us it is hard to recognize. He told us if we would obey the commandments, we would be fine. We would not be controlled by Satan. He told us we need to ask God for his help & dedicate your life to Him. Sometime in our life we’ll have to do it. I’ll do it tonight! AT the end of his talk he gave us an Apostolic Blessing. The spirit hit me & went through me with force. He promised us that “The Spirit of the Lord will work with us with direction, inspiration, and safety.” He also blessed our family, & told us we’d understand their hard work for us once we sent someone off on a mission. At the end, he walked out, we were asked to stay seated but we all stood up anyway. I felt so strong, without a doubt that Boyd K. Packer was an Apostle of God! I knew it. He bore in his testimony that he knew Jesus Christ lived. He is a witness of Him. It hit me hard! I was brought to tears when he left because I knew Jesus Christ would give me the power to preach, teach & say the things He wants me to say. I know it. I love Him, and I love what I’m doing!
September 7th, 1994 – Wednesday
Oops! I left my other journal in my room at the MTC, so I’ll have to use this one for my 1st few weeks. Today was sweet! I got up at 4:30am, showered, said bye to Sweep & Pedro, then left. They got my ticket mixed up with a girl & for a while I had the ticket to go to Rochester NY!!! Anyways, it all got straightened out. At the airport Leroy, Jenna, Mishaun, James, Straussers, Jacksons (with little Haley), and Grandma & Grandpa were all there! It was good to talk to all of them! I left down the terminal (tough to say bye) & they kept yelling my name saying “Clint…..bye.” Always joking! 🙂 From SLC to San Francisco Sister Sanford gave out a Book of Mormon. Did that pump us up! So we get in a rent a van & talk to the driver “Beatrice” about what we are doing. We spoke about the earthquake & how it seems to take disasters to wake people up! I gave her a Book of Mormon afterward too! Then, I got my shoe shined & talked to this guy for a while. We didn’t talk much religion. At the terminal Sister McDonald talked to some Spanish people & gave them a Book of Mormon!!! On the plane, I talked to this business man, but nothing came of it. Then in Los Angeles, we were on our way to get our luggage when Barbara Turner stopped us and asked Sister Sanford where she is going. Then she asked why Sister Sanford was here. Sister Sanford full out bore her testimony to her. I pulled up a seat next to her & Sister Sanford & I were taking turns telling her our feelings & beliefs! She wanted to find out for herself whether the Book of Mormon was true! We recommitted her to read (because Missionaries had committed her the day before) & committed her to pray whether or not this book was true. The Spirit guided my words and Sister Sanford & I worked well together & were totally pumped after! I tell ya what! The Lord has blessed us. All we need to do is open our mouths because the people are ready to listen! I don’t need to fear man, just talk to them! It’s that simple! The Lord guided us today! Sister McDonald & Sister Lizenby stopped a black man whose wife was taking the discussions. He felt it was a sign from God that he needed to take the discussions too! So Sister McDonald committed him to do it! Today has been so spiritually uplifting & I build off of the others! It is so neat to see people become receptive to your wards! Only through the Spirit is this possible! I love this work! I’m never going to lose this vision! We have so many souls to bring this gospel to! We’re running out of time! I pray I’m led to the honest in heart! I talked with my family today. They’re all doing great! Trent has a lady. He better watch himself. Liz is playing volleyball! Mom & Dad are well!! I need to sleep. God is in charge of each of my days. I know it & I’m glad He is!
September 8th – 10th, 1994 – Thursday to Saturday
Ok. I’m in Puyo Ecuador right now. We just ran into the missionaries from teh office & they’re checking out our house. The trip on Thursday was good. I gave out a Book of Mormon to an old lady who was from Boston going to see her family. I talked to a guy named Ron going to Bogata. His problem was why do we need anything other than the Bible. Arriving in Quito was an awesome feeling. I felt a lot of excitement & joy! We were picked up by President Farnsworth, his two sons & others. The sisters were dropped off, & I hung out with the Elders until about 1:00am! We ate dinner that Sister Farnsworth made. I couldn’t sleep too good at the place of the Elders. The next day we had a meeting with all the new Elders & Sisters. I met my comp Elder Salazar & he’s a stud! He’s from Guayaquil. He’s a hard worker, too. President Farnswroth let us know that it was up to us, not the area, on how many people we baptize! I need to remember this. We ate (Sis Farnsworth is so nice) & had a briefing over mail & things. We left, caught a cab (It was kind of sad seeing the Sisters leave). We waited at a terminal for a while. Elder Salazar kept telling me to watch my luggage because of thieves. After two hours, we got on a bus to Puyo. The ceiling went to my back. I was hunched over! My legs (knees) were digging in the seat in front of me. I was sore, & we were in there for 6 hours! The bus was packed. There were families sitting in a seat for two. One father stood up the whole way! I talked to a lot of kids & they taught me a lot! One’s name is Diego & his family is coming to church this Sunday. Elder Salazar did this. Right now I ate at the Candobravo’s house. We had an egg on rice with a cocoa type drink. It was really good! I just got back from walking around Puyo. We talked to an Hermana (Amada) and she gave us a reference. Ecuador is sweet. Puyo is humid and it looks like a rain forest. I’m excited to be here. I’ll write more later. My comp is sick.
September 10th, 1994 – Saturday (night)
Today we walked all over! It was sweet. Puyo is sweet. I found letters from Elders Sweep & Ashworth in my bags. They were both very nice! Today we visited a few peoples houses. We taught the 1st New Member Discussion to Narsica & Alisadeth. It went well. She prayed for me to learn the language. We ran into a young girl named Yolanda & hwill have a charla with her this Tuesday. We also gave the 3rd New Member to Laura & Anita. They had strong spirits. She wanted her family to be baptized. I told her that this was very possible & talked to her about Randy. We went & had Family Home Evening with the familia Velin. We saw a video of Christ. The video is awesome & helps me to realize the reality of Christ’s life. Earlier we also visited the Rodriguez’s. Their Dad is super funny! He wants me to teach him English. He & his wife aren’t baptized, but will be! Ecuador is sweet. The people here are nice. A lot of people look at me weird, but that’s OK. One old lady called me “Gringo” & wanted to talk to me. Elder Salazar told me all she wanted to do was bash. Tonight I met Sister Candobravo. She’s super chevere (cool). She talks so fast, but I could understand. The Lord has blessed me & it’s only my 1st day!
September 11th, 1994 – Sunday
Wow, am I tired! Today was tiring! This morning we studied together as comps. We tried finding Diego & his family but we couldn’t. We got to church late. I felt real bad of this & we’ve talked of this & won’t do it anymore! Church was great. I bore my testimony. It was pretty bad Spanish, but it was fine. There were 41 people there. I blessed the sacrament in Spanish. The people were noisy. I had to teach Primary for 2 hours. I talked with all the kids. They’re all so cool & helped me with the language. We visited a family in Shell, they seem cool. I can’t talk well, but Elder Salzar takes over. We always eat at “Mamita’s” house. I don’t want to be there every second. THere is some contention here. I hope I can help out. I want to be more organized & punctual. Elder Salzar is cool. I think we can build this branch up quick! I got to go, but i want to write more.
September 12th, 1994 – Monday
Today was P-day. We got up late. No more! We did companion study, I organized my stuff a little better, and wrote the family and Gwen. We went to town & bought food. I couldn’t buy Sandals, they didn’t have my size. We ate at an oriental place then we played hoops for a while. I talked with la Mamita awhile. She’s super cool! She bought me a lot of things. Tonight we had FHE with the Elexandra Teran family. It was cool. We focused on Love one Another. We played a game “Patito, Patito”. It was fun & it was cool playing with kids. They’re all super cool. The language is tough but good. The Lord is blessing me. Today I noticed contention between the Elders Moulton & Salazar. This isn’t good. We need the Spirit. Good night.
September 13th, 1994 – Tuesday
I am so tired! My body is full of sweat, my feet kill, & it’s hot & muggy! But I love it. Today we taught 5 discussions (charlas). We taught Natali the 1st discussion. We then helped La Mamita with groceries. This lady is so cool! She feeds us every day! We pay her, but it’s cheaper than most. She’s always saying that I might be her next favorite Elder. We’ll see. One thing she might not like is that I don’t plan on hanging out with her as much as Elder Salazar likes to. I hope this doesn’t turn into a problem. We next went & taught Marlene the 1st new member charla. We looked for other people but couldn’t find them. We taught Yolanda Moran the 1st Charla. She liked it a lot. I felt the spirit strong during the Joseph Smith 1st Vision. But Satan did find a few ways to make interruptions. We then taught Narcissa the 2nd New Member Charla. We went next to the church to listen to President Farnsworth speak. He was sick so he didn’t go. We then went to talk to members. We then taught the 1st Charla to the son of Alexandra Espinosa (Andres). I didn’t use the charla book, I just talked. I need to study the charlas more & obtain the word & then I can talk. Today Elder Salazar & I talked a lot. He’s so cool. He’s a good hard worker. He wants me to help him keep excited! I need him to help me & he has helped me a ton. He & Elder Moulton argue every second they talk. It isn’t good. Elder Moulton told me “Everything was taken care of.” Whatever that means. I hope they don’t change Elder Salazar as my comp. He’s a sweet comp. We’ll see what happens because tomorrow we’re going to Ambato.
September 14th, 1994 – Tuesday
Today we got up at 5:00am to leave to Ambato. We left at 6:00am & almost missed the bus. The drive there was so pretty! There were green mountains with houses & waterfalls. I took pictures on the way back. We got to Ambato on time for the meeting. Elder Moulton & Salazar argued last night on what time to leave. It was lame. Today we had a meeting on leadership. I didn’t get much out of it because Elder Salazar was always making smart comments. I also didn’t listen much because of laziness. Today Satan has been all over me@ My thoughts weren’t good & there was pornography around every corner! He’s a punk. President Farnsworth finally arrived (like at 2pm). He talked of a lot of things, he talked of the need to follow leaders. He directed the talk to Elder Salazar. We talked about how people who die & don’t accept the gospel are just too lazy to repent! Afterward (He also spoke on steps of repentance) I talked to Prez about the contention in our place. He said for us to wait & see how things are. He said Elder Salazar is never like this. I don’t know w’sup. I’ll pray for the spirit. I plan on doing a public presentation about the church. I know we can get quite a few investigators. Today Elder Salazar seemed annoyed. He talked to Prez. It was quick & short. The Prez told me that we should never leave a meeting like that. I felt the spirit leave when we left. I need to follow the Spirit. Tonight we were at the Mamita’s for 2 hours!! That’s ridiculous! I’m going to pray for investigators & then we’ll be too busy to “hang out” there.
September 15th, 1994 – Thursday
Today was a good day. We taught 4 charlas, 1 New Member discussion & 3 Charlas. We taught Natali, ran in pouring rain to Andre’s house & taught him (we were drenched!) (They’re both kids) We went to teach Yolanda but they were doing construction so we decided to reschedule because of noise. Before lunch, I made flyers to hand out to the people in the streets for an open house. I was all hyped about it and felt good but then I felt like the other missionaries thought it was overhyped. I even felt like forgetting it. I think that this was Satan trying to stop me to continue because this will get a lot of people in the church. The feeling had to be from Satan because what bad to come of trying to bring the work forth? It’s a good thing, not a bad thing. Tonight we taught Vega Valencia the 1st Charla. It went awesome! I felt the spirit super strong. They agreed with all. It went very well! They fed us too some good food. They’re super funny! I’ve prayed to get more investigators so that we can’t spend time at the Mamita’s house. I know the Lord will answer my prayers! We need more investigators!
September 16th, 1994 – Friday
Today was OK. I don’t feel like I got a lot done. I woke up, did scripture reading & companionship study. I studied the vocabulary words too. This morning we went to Sister Ruth’s work & helped her pack up some wooden parrots. Her pet parrot bit my finger! It was my fault though, I put my finger in front of his mouth. We ate lunch at the Mamitas. We had an appointment at 2:30pm & gave a charla to Natali. We were there 1 ½ hours! We went to Anita & her Grandma’s house. Her Grandma wasn’t there so we sat & talked for 1 hour about gay stuff & ended up being 20 minutes late to Yolanda’s. Man, when I’m the man, this isn’t going to happen! I’m going to be on time & not waste time. It’s something I want to do. I might say something because we’re doing more socializing than missionary work. Yolanda basically didn’t want to be baptized & had about 5 doubts. Her aunt was giving sarcastic looks to us all the time. We were late to an appointment in Shell, so the people are probably still waiting because we didn’t go & they don’t have a phone! So instead, take a guess where we went………Yes, the Mamitas. We once again, cooked for 1 hour, ate for 10 minutes. But tonight we did give Mamita a blessing. She was sick. I’ve learned a lot already from my companion. He can teach awesome! I ‘ve also seen a lot of things that I don’t want to do: They are:
- Never waste time
- Do Missionary Work
- Be friends with members, but don’t live there
- Do more street contacting
- Talk to everyone
I need to talk to my companion about spending so much time at the Mamitas. I could be doing a lot of things & getting things done. AHHHHHHHH! I know I should confront him but I don’t want to mess us up. I’ve got to pray for guidance. Tonight, we might have seen a UFO. People the other day said they saw some. Never know. Ecuador is awesome. It’s a very pretty place. The people are simple and humble. Our place is nice. I have a bed. I’m tired. Good night.
September 17th, 1994 – Saturday
Today was a pretty sweet day. We went to the church to do some service. We cleaned the side of the church. We hurried home, took showers, & ate at Mamitas. We taught Natali the 4th Charla. She’s nervous about the Baptism. I get to baptize her. That’s so awesome. My 1st baptism will be on my Birthday! What a present! To bring a soul into the church. What a blessing! We talked to Yolanda & read the Book of Mormon. She has doubts of her baptism. We’ll teach the 3rd charla again to her & if she won’t be baptized… Adios! We taught 2 New Member charlas to Anita & Laura, and Marlene. We taught Andre again. I’m talking much better & feeling the spirit quite a bit. Tonight Elder Salazar & I talked about next week. We’re going to lose investigators, so we’re going to visit inactives, get referrals, also pass out pamphlets for our Open House. I hope the Lord blesses us with success. I want to change Puyo into a place with the church – STRONGLY!!
September 18th, 1994 – HAPPY 20TH BIRTHDAY ELDER! – Sunday
Yep. Todays the big 2 – 0! No more teenager for me. Kind of sad. Today we taught Natali the remaining two discussions. She was nervous to get baptized & interviewed too! We went to the Mamitas to eat lunch & were about late to prepare the sacrament & I was stirred up. I hate rushing around! Church was good. I blessed the sacrament and passed it. There wree 45 people there today. Primary was OK. We had a lesson on the Word of Wisdom. The kids are so dag, gummin loud. They need to chill. After church, I baptized Veronica Nataly Sanchez Teran. It was an awesome feeling. I felt the Spirit big time. Nataly said she felt “Feliz”. It was such a neat feeling! I love Nataly, and that’s the best present I’ve received ever on my Birthday. We went & taught Vega Valencia in Shell. We just read with them because they hadn’t done their reading. I came home & Elder Slazar was practically running to the Mamitas. I was mad because he seemed to be in a more hurry to Mamitas than to appointments. Well, they had a big surprise party for me! It was super cool. I know Mamita organized it! About the whole branch was there. We played games, I got my face shoved in the cake, and on the way we the “Mas Cheveres Y Unicas Mujeres Jovenes” & I sang songs. Good day!
September 19th, 1994 – P-day Monday
Today I didn’t get much done. I wrote to the fam & to Maestro Ballado. I did some washing. Man, I’m already sick of scrubbing out dirt of my shirts. It takes forever. And then it takes 3 to 4 days to dry! We played hopps for a long time today. It was alright. I found a place where I can practice pitching. I need to. Elder Moulton & Salazar tried talking things over. Wrong move. Man, they just can’t get along! Ridiculous! I’m not going to try & help them out either because Elder Moulton mentioned my name to my comp & my comp had to ask me what I said & why. No more. We went to the Mamitas quite a bit. I hope this is a good week. I need to pray better every night for investigators & patience. I know the Lord knows my desires & will bless me according to my obedience. I ate gizzard today at the Mamitas.
September 20th, 1994 – Tuesday
Today was a learning experience. I woke up feeling super empty. I felt homesick, I felt like crying & very weird & confused. After 2 ½ months of feeling the Spirit I know when it isn’t with me. And this morning it wasn’t. I tried to push it back & just get to work. We visited a few members and gave a charla for New Members to a young girl. It went well. We came home & on the way home Elder Salazar mentioned that he felt the same way (empty, no enthusiasm). We got into the house & it was super strong. I could feel it was Satan. So we prayed and cast Satan out of our presence. We ate at the Mamitas, then went & visited some inactives (to church we invited). We then ran into an old man who had been walking since morning looking for his son. His son never visited him so he took a cab to a part of Puyo, and then walked since morning. We bought him a soda & sat him down in the shade. We walked him until we found out where his son lived. His grandson came & got him. I felt so good serving this man. I felt like a peculiar person because of taking time to serve him. A lot of people looked at us like we were wasting our time but we weren’t. We were serving this helpless old man who could barely walk. The poor man was tired & it was hot. I wanted to carry him but figured that would be a little uncomfortable for us both. After serving this man I had the Spirit back with me in a snap. I’ve learned that Service will bring the true love of Christ at any time! Tonight we taught a few charlas. I felt the Lord helping me with them. The Mamita helped us today. She’s cool, man. Sometimes through it’s a waste of time to be with her. Well, it’s bedtime. I’m very tired. The Lord has blessed me tremendously. He is helping me to achieve my goal of learning the language in one month. Today I prayed to find my lost agenda & tonight I did! Just like the old days.
September 21st, 1994 – Wednesday
AHHHHHHHH! It’s 10:10pm & we just got in! We were here at 9:00pm & I was studying. Mamita called and needed eyedrops. How lame. I went anyway (I had no choice – like I’m gonna say no & get everyone mad at me). My comp said it would be super fast. We get there, eat some cake, chat, walk to a house, give a man eye drops, chat, walk to Mamitas, chat, eatsome cake, wait 15 minutes for her son to buy a cola, chat, eat, drink some sprite, chat & leave. ABOUT TIME! I could’ve been studying vocab or scriptures but instead we end up getting nothing done, and end up breaking the rules (inside by 9:30pm). How can I pray for Golden Investigatores when I can’t even obey a stupid rule of being in by 9:30pm? I hope the Lord forgives me. Today we did a lot. In the morning we basically did nothing because we had nothing planned. Boy, am I learning a lot of things I want to improve on when I’m in charge. I need to talk to my comp, but I don’t want contention. Today, I ate the neck of a chicken & I don’t want to know what else! I’m so dang full. I thought I was going to lose weight here. I think I’m going to puke sometimes. I don’t think the Mamita likes me. But that’ ok, I want to do the Lord’s work, not hers! WE SPEND TOO MUCH FREAKING TIME AT THE MAMITAS!!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.
September 22nd, 1994 – Thursday
Today was ‘aight. We picked up the mail and I got a letter from Mom, Meredith, Kristen Bowman, and Mandee Ellis. Also, President & Sister Farnsworth sent me a birthday card. They’re cool. We went & taught a New member discussion to Yomara. She’s only 10 or so years old. She told us that God talked to her in her mind & told her something and to not tell anyone. I sure hope that it was something good because if it wasn’t then it was from Satan. We went through town for errands. We then went to the Mamitas & hung out from 1pm to 3:45pm or so. That’s ridiculous. The Mamita went with us to talk to inactives. I hope they attend. I know they will. We taught Anita & Laura their final Charla. We couldn’t find Yolanda. We might have lost her. Her aunt didn’t seem to like us too much. I’m so tired. We walked all over. My head hurts from the sun. But I love it. I want to work harder. Elder Moulton told me not to worry about “the Mamita” situation but that he had it taken care of. Whatever that means. I’m headed for bed. Maybe if I’m in bed (it’s 9:45pm) we won’t go to the Mamitas.
September 23rd, 1994 – Friday
Today. What happened. All day we visited members & inactives and gave them invitations to give to their friends. I hope & pray that this will be a success (the Open House). We don’t have many investigators. Plus today (tonight) we wasted a lot of time. We talked to members for 2 ½ hours. It was good talk, but I just didn’t feel right. Then, instead of going by Narciassa’s house (who we missed an appointment) we went to the Mamitas. She was complaining, arguing with her daughter, and getting us involved in personal things. I hope I don’t get too involved because I don’t plan on spending close to as much time there once my comp leaves. Tonight, Elder Moulton & Guarderas talked with the Mamita. I have a feeling he mentioned my name, not wanting to be there every second. Today I ate fish. It was aight.
September 24th, 1994 – Saturday
Today was wild. Last night the other Elders talked to the Mamita & basically ripped her a hole on how she is raising her children. Ummmm “He who hath no sin cast the 1st stone” “Beam in Eye”. Not cool to tell someone else that they’ve got a problem. Not a good way to handle things. Need to build them up, or present a message to let them see their own problem. Anyway, the Mamita is basically gone inactive. She isn’t planning on going to church or activities anymore. Man, they said they followed the Spirit on their decision but……I don’t know. We’ll see. The mamita is the heart of the Rama (Branch). Today we didn’t do much. We practiced for a talent show, taught a charla, went to Shell, (a guyreal old) did push-ups for us for $$. What people do here for $$. We ate at Sister Ruth’s & played hoops. I’ve told my companion how I want to work. Now with this problem it doesn’t look like we’ll be home much, just at the Mamitas. The poor lady has lost all spirit. Satan has done some work.
September 25th, 1994 – Sunday
Today I was ticked! We were 15 minutes late to Sacrament Meeting. I didn’t participate in Sacrament because I was so mad at being late & the lack of effort on my companion’s part. After church I told him all the things that bugged me big time. I told him about being on time, being at the Mamitas. I don’t think it got through to him about the Mamitas because tomorrow he wants to eat breakfast there. When we can easily make what we want here. That bugs me. I’m going to take my time & do all I need to before leaving the house. I need to because I’m not coming back. Instead we’re at the Mamitas. Today Hermana Vega Valencia talked a lot about the Book of Mormon. I hope we can baptize him & his family. I asked the Lord for forgiveness for not doing all I can, disobeying rules because of my companion. I need more patience & also to be more bold.
September 26th, 1994 – Monday
Today was up & down. We had a baptism. Elder Moulton baptized Brother Rodriguez & Brother Rodriguez baptized his wife after receiving the Priesthood. We walked home & Elder Salazar was walking with the Mamita like 1 mile an hour. Elder Moulton & I talked & he’s going to do something. He’s fed up seeing us always at the Mamitas. What kind of news is that? I’ve been fed up since the start. I’m going to say more things to my companion because I’m sick of not getting much done. I’m going to talk to more people. I need to . Tonight Elder Cedeno and Elder Durfee are here. The Zone Leaders. They’re cool. I hope Elder Moulton does something about Elder Salazar being at the Mamitas. It’s getting dumb. I’ve gotten frustrated quite a bit. I’ve got to keep focus & realize what my job is. Faith in Christ. Remember He’s on my side.
September 27th, 1994 – Tuesday
Today was aight. We left the house to get the mail & track (knock doors). I got letters from Mom, Dad, Mandee Ellis, Stake Presidency, and Kamee Larkin. Letters are the best. They lift me up. We never did go tracting. Instead we did errands in town and visited 2 people. We came back & ate at the Mamitas. We came home & I did some studying. My companion is praying whether he should leave the 2nd of November or the 20th of December. Either one is fine, whatever the Lord wants. We did some real work from lunch on. Tonight we had an FHE at the Mamitas. We watched a movie about 2 Mexicans that gave their lives for the gospel. It was touching & I bore my testimony that I would die too. I would. There was an investigator there. I know he felt the Spirit. I hope he decides to take the Charlas. We haven’t found anyone to teach for 2 weeks. We need to do something.
September 28th, 1994 – Wednesday
Ok. Today is loco! I’m laughing right now because this crazy situation is worse. This morning there was basically an argue fest between Elder Moulton & Elder Salazar. They called the President, he talked to me & the other two. All in all, Elder Salazar left. I feel good about him leaving. We rededicated the house & asked for the spirit to be here. We did some work today. We visited Brother Caiza & some of his workers. They are pretty behind on their beliefs but we’re going to work with them. We talked to the Mamita tonight and Elder Guarderas ripped her another hole. I didn’t feel Guarderas was too nice to her. He seemed to put himself on a higher level than her. He also judged her & did it saying he knew he had to say it because he received revelation. I was pretty mad. I told him he shouldn’t have come down so hard on her & he told me I needed to learn something. Oooook. I know you got to tell people straight up at times, but heck, I’m a sinner. I’m not one to judge. Plus Elder Guarderas is either incredibly in tune or he is Mr. “I never make a mistake”. I’m gonna tell him what I think whenever I need to. I can’t see him accepting it. Oh well. I’m going to get Elder Delgado tomorrow. I talked to him on the phone. He seems cool. I feel we can now start to work with strength. I know the Lord has tested me, & he isn’t done. I just can’t wait to reap the rewards. I’ll stay faithful & try to learn everyday. I pray for success here in Puyo. I feel as if I’m just starting my mission. I’m going to make the best of it.
September 29, 1994 – Thursday
Today was incredible. This morning we basically just planned out a few things in the morning waiting for Elder Delgado to arrive. He came at like 12pm. We ate & then visited tons of members, talked to tons of people. He’s a work horse. He’s like 5 foot 2 inches, 120 lbs. & works his tail off. I’m dead tired. I love it. Things are looking up! I’m excited and tired.
September 30th, 1994 – Friday
Today was aight. We didn’t do much. Elder Delgdo talked to the Mamita & didn’t feel good about how the Elders said things to the Mamita. He talked to me & I told him what I thought. We just got back from the talent show. It was pretty sweet other than there weren’t many investigators there. It was funny, people sung & we did skits – “Contagious”, “Best Spitter in the World”, “Ugliest Man in World”, “Best Looking Man in World”, “Kiss Kings Ring” (foot). It was fun. I hope this helps the members feel united. Tonight Elder Delgado & Moulton talked to President about the situation. I think there might be a change with Elder Guard