Hello everyone, hope you are all having a great week so far.
This week has been a good one; it gets harder and harder to believe that I only have three weeks left. No word on visas-they don't tell us anything until we leave or not....but I'll stop by the travel office to see if they have any idea on the situation.
Well, we weren't spoken to by Pres Hinckley, but we listened to Elder Ballard of the twelve-not bad huh? It was really good and stressing how important it is to make sure people understand what we really are in the church, our beliefs, etc because for some reason it can be hard to ignore all the rumors etc. He stressed teaching simply and clearly and making sure that they are coming along with you in their understanding. It was really good and we had a spiritual district meeting afterwards.
Well this Saturday we start SYL and it's Russian from here on out-scary to think, it's so draining to try and say everything in Russian but I know it helps us learn faster or realize what we need to learn 8)
I'm not sure why you haven't gotten my letter with pictures-my friends in Provo received it, so it's not a weight issue and I know your address...keep me posted on that.
I go back today in an hour to have them look at my ears etc and get my last shot. My hearing is pretty much back to normal and the doctor will give me some medicine to take with me so that's good.
The temple was amazing as usual. We were able to help one of our roommates get some names done that she has so that was special. I haven't seen Jason around but maybe one of these days, who knows. I'm excited for conference and it's hard to believe that this Sunday is our last fast Sunday here-wow!
Thanks for all of your support and love- oh yea, and mom my debit card works so don't worry 8)
I'm not that worried about glasses, too much work, it'll be fine. Thanks for Heather's address-tell her to call Sara cause I sent Sara a letter for heather since I didn't know her new address.
I love you all and hope that all is well! Eric gets email capabilities doesn't he? maybe not...if he does-write me!
Love, Cectpa Richards
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Thank You!
September 18, 2007
Hello everyone!
Thank you so much for all of your wonderful letters! It is amazing how happy they made me. Thank you so much for all the pictures Mike and Jess-they were so adorable and seeing you all together and how big and cute the kids are getting, it almost made me cry (in a good way) especially the pick with Benson on top of Steve's shoulders-adorable!
This week has been amazing, and it's funny because I can't find a specific thing that made it that way-just everything combined. We got to hear from Pres. Hinckley's son which was amazing with some of the insights they gave us into his life, and the spirit was really strong. We're working on the second lesson in Russian now and will teach it Wednesday. It is so humbling to be learning this language but at the same time feel so much joy when you can share a simple testimony and know that they understand. An elder in our district gave a powerful testimony with a few tears about how he finally felt the spirit in Russian when someone bore a simple testimony in response to a question he had asked (when we teach each other) and said that it really is great that we have this language and that it forces us to stay simple and pure-def not relying on our own knowledge or wisdom to teach but the spirit.
Well, some possibly big news is that we think we may hear from Pres. Hinckley tonight-we hear he is speaking at BYU today so he is in the area and it would make sense if they scheduled it at the same time for convenience-I so hope that we can hear from the prophet while we are here-how fortunate and how wonderful, especially when many of the missionaries here have never heard from him in person being from all over the world.
Well, my cold is doing better, but I had a minor setback when I ran out of decongestants-wasn't diligent in getting more right away and it has affected my ears (as my sinuses always seem to do). I woke up in the middle of the night the other night with an aching ear so I took one of the pills I had and said a prayer that it would work. I went to the health center the next morning, the doctor looked at it and said that the eardrum was fine, but he could tell there was some pressure-it was pulsing (gross!) and thus my hearing is a little muffled, but he set me up with some new medicine which makes me feel like I'm sucking on a tin can all day, but I'm stocked in tic-tacs and breath mints. He also said that the medicine I had was expired, to throw it away and then he said he would get me a good supply to have that would last longer than my mission in case it happens there seeing as medical isn’t great over there-so some great blessings 8). I'll go for a check up next Tuesday.
A funny story I thought I'd share: We were teaching some elders in our district for practice and then they taught us. They told us of a scripture in the D&C and we continued to read it in Russian-of course not understanding any of it, so opening our scriptures we read it in English so we could understand how to answer their questions about it. They had told us to read D&C 130:11-12 (we barely started reading it when we bust out laughing-read it and you'll see why. Not exactly a great scripture for brand new investigators or even brand new members of the church for that matter). We all laughed really hard, we were crying we were laughing so hard, then they realized the scripture they wanted was 20-21 about keeping commandments. It was just so funny because we had no idea what it said and were all like- yea great, I get it in Russian. It shows the importance of knowing what you're asking them to read 8).
Another story that I heard last night from my roommate’s teacher: He was in Russia and saw a family waiting for a bus. The dad was yelling at his son to come here-the son was barely able to walk (really young) and he said that he could see such utter fear and confusion from the son. He talked about how there are wars and terrorists all over the world and that we send armies to fight them and protect us, but there was no army coming to protect that boy who was feeling true fear-and living with it everyday in his home. Then he realized that he was the "army" that could come and help this family-the gospel is so important, it is the only thing that really saves people-despite circumstances in this life, wars, etc. It is so important, it's eternal and would be able to save that little boy and that father so that they could be a family unit in the way that God intended, and how important families are.
Satan is so unhappy because he doesn't have a body and thus cannot have a real family-will never have a mother, father, brothers and sisters, but is the true meaning of loneliness and forced to be a single individual with no attachments or connections with others-how sad and horrible that is, and how important is it that we can have bodies. We can have families and through the gospel. We are able to be sealed to them and will be able to progress and learn together. We are intelligences that need that family relationship and contact with others to truly grow and progress to our full potential. It just hit me so hard the utter gravity of the responsibility that I have to share this gospel, the ONLY thing that can truly save people in this unsure world. How could we feel timid about sharing that, or be uncertain? They don't know the importance of it, but we do and because of that understanding we should be sharing it with every single person that we can-it means everything. I dunno, I just really received an eternal perspective and understanding of the importance of this great work and am so grateful for that boost in my testimony. We are heroes because we are able to save people; help the Savior save people and be able to live together forever and with God forever. That is why we go through everything that we do and I know that it is the only way to accomplish this.
I love you all and hope that you have received some of the pictures I sent home so you can see what life is like here.
Andrea, thank you for the letter! I would love to help, it may take me a little bit, but I will try my best at writing a letter in Russian and bearing my testimony of the gospel and the message that you missionaries have. (and I'll try to send some pictures)
Eric, congratulations on graduating! I'm so impressed and proud of your diligence in learning Arabic and serving your country. Every week when we pray for the servicemen in the temple I think of you and how much I appreciate what you are doing and love you.
Steve, hope band is going well - keep up the hard work and let me know how the season is going-games, funny stories, competitions
Sorry to hear about the BYU game, I couldn't believe it but I’m glad it wasn't a complete shut out. We'll get them when I'm back that's for sure!
I love you all, and thank you for your love and support. Please let the knowledge of the importance of the gospel strengthen your resolve to share it
Cectpa Richards
Hello everyone!
Thank you so much for all of your wonderful letters! It is amazing how happy they made me. Thank you so much for all the pictures Mike and Jess-they were so adorable and seeing you all together and how big and cute the kids are getting, it almost made me cry (in a good way) especially the pick with Benson on top of Steve's shoulders-adorable!
This week has been amazing, and it's funny because I can't find a specific thing that made it that way-just everything combined. We got to hear from Pres. Hinckley's son which was amazing with some of the insights they gave us into his life, and the spirit was really strong. We're working on the second lesson in Russian now and will teach it Wednesday. It is so humbling to be learning this language but at the same time feel so much joy when you can share a simple testimony and know that they understand. An elder in our district gave a powerful testimony with a few tears about how he finally felt the spirit in Russian when someone bore a simple testimony in response to a question he had asked (when we teach each other) and said that it really is great that we have this language and that it forces us to stay simple and pure-def not relying on our own knowledge or wisdom to teach but the spirit.
Well, some possibly big news is that we think we may hear from Pres. Hinckley tonight-we hear he is speaking at BYU today so he is in the area and it would make sense if they scheduled it at the same time for convenience-I so hope that we can hear from the prophet while we are here-how fortunate and how wonderful, especially when many of the missionaries here have never heard from him in person being from all over the world.
Well, my cold is doing better, but I had a minor setback when I ran out of decongestants-wasn't diligent in getting more right away and it has affected my ears (as my sinuses always seem to do). I woke up in the middle of the night the other night with an aching ear so I took one of the pills I had and said a prayer that it would work. I went to the health center the next morning, the doctor looked at it and said that the eardrum was fine, but he could tell there was some pressure-it was pulsing (gross!) and thus my hearing is a little muffled, but he set me up with some new medicine which makes me feel like I'm sucking on a tin can all day, but I'm stocked in tic-tacs and breath mints. He also said that the medicine I had was expired, to throw it away and then he said he would get me a good supply to have that would last longer than my mission in case it happens there seeing as medical isn’t great over there-so some great blessings 8). I'll go for a check up next Tuesday.
A funny story I thought I'd share: We were teaching some elders in our district for practice and then they taught us. They told us of a scripture in the D&C and we continued to read it in Russian-of course not understanding any of it, so opening our scriptures we read it in English so we could understand how to answer their questions about it. They had told us to read D&C 130:11-12 (we barely started reading it when we bust out laughing-read it and you'll see why. Not exactly a great scripture for brand new investigators or even brand new members of the church for that matter). We all laughed really hard, we were crying we were laughing so hard, then they realized the scripture they wanted was 20-21 about keeping commandments. It was just so funny because we had no idea what it said and were all like- yea great, I get it in Russian. It shows the importance of knowing what you're asking them to read 8).
Another story that I heard last night from my roommate’s teacher: He was in Russia and saw a family waiting for a bus. The dad was yelling at his son to come here-the son was barely able to walk (really young) and he said that he could see such utter fear and confusion from the son. He talked about how there are wars and terrorists all over the world and that we send armies to fight them and protect us, but there was no army coming to protect that boy who was feeling true fear-and living with it everyday in his home. Then he realized that he was the "army" that could come and help this family-the gospel is so important, it is the only thing that really saves people-despite circumstances in this life, wars, etc. It is so important, it's eternal and would be able to save that little boy and that father so that they could be a family unit in the way that God intended, and how important families are.
Satan is so unhappy because he doesn't have a body and thus cannot have a real family-will never have a mother, father, brothers and sisters, but is the true meaning of loneliness and forced to be a single individual with no attachments or connections with others-how sad and horrible that is, and how important is it that we can have bodies. We can have families and through the gospel. We are able to be sealed to them and will be able to progress and learn together. We are intelligences that need that family relationship and contact with others to truly grow and progress to our full potential. It just hit me so hard the utter gravity of the responsibility that I have to share this gospel, the ONLY thing that can truly save people in this unsure world. How could we feel timid about sharing that, or be uncertain? They don't know the importance of it, but we do and because of that understanding we should be sharing it with every single person that we can-it means everything. I dunno, I just really received an eternal perspective and understanding of the importance of this great work and am so grateful for that boost in my testimony. We are heroes because we are able to save people; help the Savior save people and be able to live together forever and with God forever. That is why we go through everything that we do and I know that it is the only way to accomplish this.
I love you all and hope that you have received some of the pictures I sent home so you can see what life is like here.
Andrea, thank you for the letter! I would love to help, it may take me a little bit, but I will try my best at writing a letter in Russian and bearing my testimony of the gospel and the message that you missionaries have. (and I'll try to send some pictures)
Eric, congratulations on graduating! I'm so impressed and proud of your diligence in learning Arabic and serving your country. Every week when we pray for the servicemen in the temple I think of you and how much I appreciate what you are doing and love you.
Steve, hope band is going well - keep up the hard work and let me know how the season is going-games, funny stories, competitions
Sorry to hear about the BYU game, I couldn't believe it but I’m glad it wasn't a complete shut out. We'll get them when I'm back that's for sure!
I love you all, and thank you for your love and support. Please let the knowledge of the importance of the gospel strengthen your resolve to share it
Cectpa Richards
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Preevet
Hello everyone! I would type hello but i have no idea how to spell it-lots of vowels etc...but anywho, thanks for all of your emails!
This week has been a good one. I seem to have caught a "nasty virus" (as the nurse called it) that seems to be running rampant here at the MTC. One thing I have to say is that it is a petri dish of filth here-every devotional is littered with people coughing left and right-a chorus of coughs if you will, but it's not too bad. My voice is a lil' hoarse, and my sinus are a lil' more active then I'd like, with a lil cough but I am loaded up on the de-congestants and gargling salt water and drinking lots of clear liquids so hopefully it will pass soon. They also told me to get plenty of rest to which I kind of chuckled....yea....I'll just pencil that in to my wide-open schedule. But my comp has been great letting me take naps during our MDT (missionary directed time) etc so i'm getting there. I would stay home and rest, but A). I don't feel as bad anymore, and B). that means my comp has to stay in the room twiddling her thumbs-the one thing I'm frustrated with as far as comp rules go, but what the hay.
In other news, our older missionaries in our branch are now gone 8( and on Sunday my companion Cectpa Kelemen, was called as music coordinator (I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn't called) and I was called as coordinating sister which basically means I go to branch council on Sunday with the Dl's and Zl's and report on how all the sisters are doing in our branch. Since we're not getting anymore sisters til we leave (only getting 8 elders this wednesday) I think I can keep track of our sisters (all four of us and all roommates 8). It should be interesting though, and I have been asked to go to the meeting that welcomes the new missionaries tomorrow night which may mean we have to miss TRC this week 8(.
Speaking of TRC, last week (our first lesson in Russian) was interesting to say the least. We had two investigators in our room, one RM who was quiet but nice, and an older squatty man who was a native. Apparently he is well-known among the teachers because instead of being the golden investigator that he is told to be, he is known for giving missionaries a hard time. He's not mean or anything, but asks a lot of questions and doesn't really allow the first lesson to take place. Luckily between the two of us we semi-communicated. My comp could understand what he said better than me (man he spoke fast!) and I was able to come up with answers better, or at least coherent things to say that he could understand. It was definitely humbling, and even though we didn't really teach the first lesson, but tried to answer his questions (not knowing how to take control of the situation in Russian) it def was a reality check and reminded me that I'll get to russia and prolly not really understand one thing people were saying. So it was good practice to put myself in that situation and get used to the feeling of "I have no idea what you're saying". It'll be less shocking for me I'm sure.
Now me and Cectpa Kelemen want to get him again just so we can take control of the situation and teach him-apparently he told the elders after us, that we did a lot better than they did (I don't know what convo he was listening to, but the spirit must have helped cause I have no idea what we were saying). It helped us though because we went after and decided to learn how to explain certain things like the Holy Ghost, and what makes us different as a church etc (in Russian that is).
Mom, just curious but I was wondering if the idea of me getting those glasses would pan out at all as far as the new insurance goes etc, if not it's ok-just let me know. I'd just feel better to have a hard copy of my current perscription/sturdy, up-to-date glasses, but if not it's fine. And as far as sweater vests; anything is fine-not white, just color, lots of colors 8).
The weather has been beautiful here and I've really enjoyed it. Today we went to an earlier session just to change things up and see the other version of the movie shown, it was refreshing and the spirit was def there.
Mike and Jess, thanks for the pics! I loved them and will keep them in my folder to look at 8)
Andrea, I'm not sure if I should be writing you emails, but I'm thinking it may be a lot easier than you having to mail something all the way to Russia (shrug) and you're basically my sister right?? Haha, just let me know if you have time, you can just forward me the letter you send to fam etc. that' fine. I'm so excited to hear about your success! I had a dream the other night that I was studying outside the 1M and you walked outside dressed in street clothes dragging your suitcases surrounded by your family and were coming home. I was so sad and tried to figure out why but you wouldn't say, and all I could think of was...now I won't have anyone to be with when I get back cause she'll already be moved on-sad day huh?! But I was happy when I woke up and realized it was a dream and you're doing awesome! Way to reinactive!!
Eric, so you're graduating! So what now? Have you already been assigned, or still waiting? Will it be out in the field so to speak or desk job, or desk job out in the field? Let me know what's going on 8).
I hope everyone will have fun at the football game! Yell the fight song extra loud for me! Benson better paint his face blue-how cute would that pic be?? When we walk and review vocab in the evenings we can sometimes here the band practicing and it makes me so happy to think of the football games awaiting me when I get home, and hopefully a great team will be waiting too 8)
Thanks for the lil package mom! I haven't used the new card yet but I will today and make sure it works.
It's weird to think what I was doing on this day six years ago. I'm so thankful for the country we live in and the opportunity we have to share our beliefs with all that are around us, and the armed services who help us maintain these rights. (Luv ya Eric!)
Well, I better go and get to it, I don't know if I told you but Elder Holland spoke to us on Tuesday and the General YW pres spoke to us sisters on sunday-I love it here! I'm def trying to soak up the spirit as much as I can so it will sustain me when I'm out in the bush 8).
I love you all, keep the letters/lil notes/pics coming-I'll be sending my pictures to you today 8).
Stay strong, and I encourage you all to study dilligence-I studied it this week and was amazed what I learned 8).
Cectpa Richards
This week has been a good one. I seem to have caught a "nasty virus" (as the nurse called it) that seems to be running rampant here at the MTC. One thing I have to say is that it is a petri dish of filth here-every devotional is littered with people coughing left and right-a chorus of coughs if you will, but it's not too bad. My voice is a lil' hoarse, and my sinus are a lil' more active then I'd like, with a lil cough but I am loaded up on the de-congestants and gargling salt water and drinking lots of clear liquids so hopefully it will pass soon. They also told me to get plenty of rest to which I kind of chuckled....yea....I'll just pencil that in to my wide-open schedule. But my comp has been great letting me take naps during our MDT (missionary directed time) etc so i'm getting there. I would stay home and rest, but A). I don't feel as bad anymore, and B). that means my comp has to stay in the room twiddling her thumbs-the one thing I'm frustrated with as far as comp rules go, but what the hay.
In other news, our older missionaries in our branch are now gone 8( and on Sunday my companion Cectpa Kelemen, was called as music coordinator (I was pleasantly surprised that I wasn't called) and I was called as coordinating sister which basically means I go to branch council on Sunday with the Dl's and Zl's and report on how all the sisters are doing in our branch. Since we're not getting anymore sisters til we leave (only getting 8 elders this wednesday) I think I can keep track of our sisters (all four of us and all roommates 8). It should be interesting though, and I have been asked to go to the meeting that welcomes the new missionaries tomorrow night which may mean we have to miss TRC this week 8(.
Speaking of TRC, last week (our first lesson in Russian) was interesting to say the least. We had two investigators in our room, one RM who was quiet but nice, and an older squatty man who was a native. Apparently he is well-known among the teachers because instead of being the golden investigator that he is told to be, he is known for giving missionaries a hard time. He's not mean or anything, but asks a lot of questions and doesn't really allow the first lesson to take place. Luckily between the two of us we semi-communicated. My comp could understand what he said better than me (man he spoke fast!) and I was able to come up with answers better, or at least coherent things to say that he could understand. It was definitely humbling, and even though we didn't really teach the first lesson, but tried to answer his questions (not knowing how to take control of the situation in Russian) it def was a reality check and reminded me that I'll get to russia and prolly not really understand one thing people were saying. So it was good practice to put myself in that situation and get used to the feeling of "I have no idea what you're saying". It'll be less shocking for me I'm sure.
Now me and Cectpa Kelemen want to get him again just so we can take control of the situation and teach him-apparently he told the elders after us, that we did a lot better than they did (I don't know what convo he was listening to, but the spirit must have helped cause I have no idea what we were saying). It helped us though because we went after and decided to learn how to explain certain things like the Holy Ghost, and what makes us different as a church etc (in Russian that is).
Mom, just curious but I was wondering if the idea of me getting those glasses would pan out at all as far as the new insurance goes etc, if not it's ok-just let me know. I'd just feel better to have a hard copy of my current perscription/sturdy, up-to-date glasses, but if not it's fine. And as far as sweater vests; anything is fine-not white, just color, lots of colors 8).
The weather has been beautiful here and I've really enjoyed it. Today we went to an earlier session just to change things up and see the other version of the movie shown, it was refreshing and the spirit was def there.
Mike and Jess, thanks for the pics! I loved them and will keep them in my folder to look at 8)
Andrea, I'm not sure if I should be writing you emails, but I'm thinking it may be a lot easier than you having to mail something all the way to Russia (shrug) and you're basically my sister right?? Haha, just let me know if you have time, you can just forward me the letter you send to fam etc. that' fine. I'm so excited to hear about your success! I had a dream the other night that I was studying outside the 1M and you walked outside dressed in street clothes dragging your suitcases surrounded by your family and were coming home. I was so sad and tried to figure out why but you wouldn't say, and all I could think of was...now I won't have anyone to be with when I get back cause she'll already be moved on-sad day huh?! But I was happy when I woke up and realized it was a dream and you're doing awesome! Way to reinactive!!
Eric, so you're graduating! So what now? Have you already been assigned, or still waiting? Will it be out in the field so to speak or desk job, or desk job out in the field? Let me know what's going on 8).
I hope everyone will have fun at the football game! Yell the fight song extra loud for me! Benson better paint his face blue-how cute would that pic be?? When we walk and review vocab in the evenings we can sometimes here the band practicing and it makes me so happy to think of the football games awaiting me when I get home, and hopefully a great team will be waiting too 8)
Thanks for the lil package mom! I haven't used the new card yet but I will today and make sure it works.
It's weird to think what I was doing on this day six years ago. I'm so thankful for the country we live in and the opportunity we have to share our beliefs with all that are around us, and the armed services who help us maintain these rights. (Luv ya Eric!)
Well, I better go and get to it, I don't know if I told you but Elder Holland spoke to us on Tuesday and the General YW pres spoke to us sisters on sunday-I love it here! I'm def trying to soak up the spirit as much as I can so it will sustain me when I'm out in the bush 8).
I love you all, keep the letters/lil notes/pics coming-I'll be sending my pictures to you today 8).
Stay strong, and I encourage you all to study dilligence-I studied it this week and was amazed what I learned 8).
Cectpa Richards
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
Hello?
Well hello everyone!
I hope everything is going well with you-I say hope because I haven't received any emails from the fam which is weird since it is easy to do and doesn't take long. I'm hoping that everything is ok and everyone is in good health/spirits etc. I haven't gotten a letter/dearelder.com letter for a couple of days but I'm hoping that's because yesterday was Labor Day and there was no mail service. I am wondering if the package mom talked about has been sent yet or if I should not be expecting it.
Life here is going great. I'm going to put in an order to print some of the pics off my camera and mail it to my fam and friends just so you can see me in all of my glory here in the MTC as well as my comp, roommates, and district.
The older districts in our branch are leaving this week and then it will be just our three districts that came in originally on the first for a week-just us, it will be weird! and then soon after I'm assuming that some greenies will come in-hopefully we'll get more girls cause it will be just us four in the branch (the girls in my room).
The language is coming-this Wednesday is the first day that we get to teach the first lesson in Russian! It's hard to believe but me and my companion have been practicing-never having notes to help or prompt us so I think we will be well prepared for how it will stretch our minds and using only the things we know. I love proclaiming the gospel in Russian-they always tell you how you need to teach simply which in English can be hard cause you feel like you need to explain everything, but in Russian you're forced to keep it simple, bare your testimony alot and have faith that the spirit will bare witness to those you're talking to.
This week I've been focusing on diligence. I mean, I understood what it is...sort-of but it seems of such importance-every mention of missionary work seems to bring up this word. So I've been studying about it from PMG and the scriptures. I've come to find that diligence is simply obedience but over and through time. It seems the Lord needs marathon runners and not sprinters. Basically it seems that diligence is what we want to help members and investigators alike to develop-because if you have diligence you will always be striving to keep the Lord's commandments and improve despite circumstances or being tired-it's consistent, and energetic. Basically it's the part of our purpose-the most important part in my mind: endure to the end. If you make covenants once it really doesn’t do you much good or matter-it's when you continually keep them and honor them that we are able to receive exaltation and grow/develop-this is what stretches us in life and forces us to rely on the Savior and keep trying.
The temple was amazing today. I love going to the temple with a certain topic in mind that I'm striving to understand or learn better and focusing on that topic throughout the endowment session and listening to the promptings of the spirit-it really is the Lord's university where we can continue to learn and receive instructions.
Steve: I would just like to thank you for continually trying to be a gentleman and trying to open the door for me etc in the past while before my mission even though I would brush your efforts aside. This week we talked about why the elders stand for the sisters when we walk in a room because some of the sisters didn't feel comfortable about it or thought that it was degrading in some way to the men. We learned that we should let them do it not because we sisters need it but because they need it. It is teaching them to honor the women in their lives and if me letting them do this will help them be respectful of their wives and mothers some day then I will let them do it and hope that some sister will help teach my future husband as well.
It is allowing them to serve and strive to be Christ-like. I realize that you were doing those things not because you thought me unable but because you were showing me that you loved me. I highly encourage you to continue to show respect to the women around you in your life-it will be a great example to the other young men around you who aren't used to it, or wouldn't think to do it, and it will brighten many people's days.
Dad, well the past few days when we have gone outside for a change of scenery in our lessons I heard the marching band practicing a couple blocks south and oh how I ached for football season! Just remembering the excitement, the smell of the food, the band, cheerleaders, a perfect clear day and the fight song-sigh....brings a unique happiness let me tell ya (and I know I don't need to tell you 8). Our teacher came in to class with BYU stamped on his hand and we were asking what it was for and then I remembered: the first game! He told us it was against Arizona and that we won-and the way he said it and his sure smile made us think it was with no difficulty. Be sure to write me and let me know how the team is doing and comments from respective sports announcers etc- about our chances for this season.
Eric, are you still learning that special dialect or are you being sent somewhere? What's the news?? Let me know how it's going and your future plans if possible 8)
Mike, Jess, and fam: How are you all doing? Are you into a new home yet? How is the weather in Oklahoma, and did you hear or know anyone that was involved in that situation with the sisters in Russia that I wrote about last time? Tell everyone hi for me and feel free to send me emails with attached pictures if possible so I can see how big the kids are getting 8)
I love you all and better close because I need to get on with my P-day activities. O yea! We were able to hear from Elder Holland last Tuesday and it was amazing!! He is definitely at the top of my list with the 12 apostles 8) His love and appreciation of missions and missionaries is absolutely contagious and I hope we hear from someone just as amazing tonight 8)
I love you all, don't be shy now!
Cectpa Richards
I hope everything is going well with you-I say hope because I haven't received any emails from the fam which is weird since it is easy to do and doesn't take long. I'm hoping that everything is ok and everyone is in good health/spirits etc. I haven't gotten a letter/dearelder.com letter for a couple of days but I'm hoping that's because yesterday was Labor Day and there was no mail service. I am wondering if the package mom talked about has been sent yet or if I should not be expecting it.
Life here is going great. I'm going to put in an order to print some of the pics off my camera and mail it to my fam and friends just so you can see me in all of my glory here in the MTC as well as my comp, roommates, and district.
The older districts in our branch are leaving this week and then it will be just our three districts that came in originally on the first for a week-just us, it will be weird! and then soon after I'm assuming that some greenies will come in-hopefully we'll get more girls cause it will be just us four in the branch (the girls in my room).
The language is coming-this Wednesday is the first day that we get to teach the first lesson in Russian! It's hard to believe but me and my companion have been practicing-never having notes to help or prompt us so I think we will be well prepared for how it will stretch our minds and using only the things we know. I love proclaiming the gospel in Russian-they always tell you how you need to teach simply which in English can be hard cause you feel like you need to explain everything, but in Russian you're forced to keep it simple, bare your testimony alot and have faith that the spirit will bare witness to those you're talking to.
This week I've been focusing on diligence. I mean, I understood what it is...sort-of but it seems of such importance-every mention of missionary work seems to bring up this word. So I've been studying about it from PMG and the scriptures. I've come to find that diligence is simply obedience but over and through time. It seems the Lord needs marathon runners and not sprinters. Basically it seems that diligence is what we want to help members and investigators alike to develop-because if you have diligence you will always be striving to keep the Lord's commandments and improve despite circumstances or being tired-it's consistent, and energetic. Basically it's the part of our purpose-the most important part in my mind: endure to the end. If you make covenants once it really doesn’t do you much good or matter-it's when you continually keep them and honor them that we are able to receive exaltation and grow/develop-this is what stretches us in life and forces us to rely on the Savior and keep trying.
The temple was amazing today. I love going to the temple with a certain topic in mind that I'm striving to understand or learn better and focusing on that topic throughout the endowment session and listening to the promptings of the spirit-it really is the Lord's university where we can continue to learn and receive instructions.
Steve: I would just like to thank you for continually trying to be a gentleman and trying to open the door for me etc in the past while before my mission even though I would brush your efforts aside. This week we talked about why the elders stand for the sisters when we walk in a room because some of the sisters didn't feel comfortable about it or thought that it was degrading in some way to the men. We learned that we should let them do it not because we sisters need it but because they need it. It is teaching them to honor the women in their lives and if me letting them do this will help them be respectful of their wives and mothers some day then I will let them do it and hope that some sister will help teach my future husband as well.
It is allowing them to serve and strive to be Christ-like. I realize that you were doing those things not because you thought me unable but because you were showing me that you loved me. I highly encourage you to continue to show respect to the women around you in your life-it will be a great example to the other young men around you who aren't used to it, or wouldn't think to do it, and it will brighten many people's days.
Dad, well the past few days when we have gone outside for a change of scenery in our lessons I heard the marching band practicing a couple blocks south and oh how I ached for football season! Just remembering the excitement, the smell of the food, the band, cheerleaders, a perfect clear day and the fight song-sigh....brings a unique happiness let me tell ya (and I know I don't need to tell you 8). Our teacher came in to class with BYU stamped on his hand and we were asking what it was for and then I remembered: the first game! He told us it was against Arizona and that we won-and the way he said it and his sure smile made us think it was with no difficulty. Be sure to write me and let me know how the team is doing and comments from respective sports announcers etc- about our chances for this season.
Eric, are you still learning that special dialect or are you being sent somewhere? What's the news?? Let me know how it's going and your future plans if possible 8)
Mike, Jess, and fam: How are you all doing? Are you into a new home yet? How is the weather in Oklahoma, and did you hear or know anyone that was involved in that situation with the sisters in Russia that I wrote about last time? Tell everyone hi for me and feel free to send me emails with attached pictures if possible so I can see how big the kids are getting 8)
I love you all and better close because I need to get on with my P-day activities. O yea! We were able to hear from Elder Holland last Tuesday and it was amazing!! He is definitely at the top of my list with the 12 apostles 8) His love and appreciation of missions and missionaries is absolutely contagious and I hope we hear from someone just as amazing tonight 8)
I love you all, don't be shy now!
Cectpa Richards
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
Exciting Times
August 28, 2007
Hello Everyone!
It's been great to hear from everyone and the exciting changes and developments in everyone's lives. I was sooo excited to get a letter from Heather and Sara! I'll be sure to write each of them separately. 8)
Well it's hard to believe that I've been here for a month on Saturday. I've been greatly blessed with a great comp and a WONDERFUL district. We are really united and everyone is open and teachable with everyone which really improves our development. We are trying to have some fun too of course with the occasional fits of the giggles that always seem to come around 1-2 o'clock in the afternoon....Russian kind of does that to your brain after prolonged periods of time. 8)
The temple was of course beautiful and peaceful today. I can't believe that two of my friends are married now! It's fun to think that they are going to the temple just like me even though we can't see each other. I sooo wish I could have gone to Heather's wedding-especially since Grandpa was the one to do it, but I'm sure he'll write to me and tell me how it went and the feelings he had while visiting with them.
Steve, way to start school...i know it's a nice change of pace but also a load of stress-try to enjoy it and keep a positive attitude-you'd be surprised how much that makes all of your assignments and projects doable.
I'm of course excited/sad for the football season to start-i so wish i could be there decked out in blue and getting hoarse, but I'm sure my boys will deliver once again-be sure to keep me updated (which I know Dad will). And that's so great about Gavin doing so well! Wow France...
Mike and fam, how are you all doing?? Thanks sooo much for the letters and news from your area of the world. O yea! Quick question for you guys since you are in the area, do you know an Annie Highland? (I'm not 100% sure on the last name) who lives in Bartlesville? I'm wondering because an elder in our district-his mom got a letter from another mom who's daughter is serving in Russia (not anywhere near me) and apparently there was a kidnapping-nothing serious, but when they were tracting some guy grabbed them as they were turning to go and locked them in a room. They weren't harmed in anyway and got out fine-not sure how, but still it's def making me happy I'm going to Rostov and not that mission, but anywho-I was wondering if you or mom and dad knew a family in Bartlesville by something like that name...not sure if it's Highland. Anywho, Pres. Hinckley sent a member of the 70 to talk to her and make sure she was alright which she is and is continuing to work. I know the Lord looked out for her just as he'll look out for all of us so I'm not worried- so don't you worry ok mom? I know it's your nature and all, but try to fight it! 8) Anywho, exciting times!
Eric, how's it going? Are you finished and studying the random dialects yet - or not quite? Let me know how they treat you, and also where you will be going next!
Grandpa Adams, thanks so much for your support and charity in helping me serve my mission-it means so much! I'm constantly overwhelmed by everyone's generosity and how the Lord helps his missionaries who are trying to serve him. I love you and if you ask me your days sound great-not humdrum...I could use a lil humdrum with this language, but alas it always seems to keep me on my toes, brain firing on all cylinders.
Dad, that's great that you're racking up the frequent flyer miles...I don't suppose South West goes to Russia do they-you could use them. 8) How is the racquetball going-still making young men cry? Be sure to keep me up-to-date with the football and bball seasons, and let me know when you get a calling! I could see something like teaching the elder's quorum or something...
Mom, how are things? I think it's great that you guys are spending time with the Schearers and having fun with them-they're great! how big is their lil Heber now?
I was wondering...prolly not gonna happen, but i was wondering if you could maybe send me some sweater vests-like the one I got at the missionary mall that was white and I think a size small....but just different colors-I'm basically trying to get more color in my wardrobe and sweater vests that you can mix and match with things really add variety to a small wardrobe. either you could look around in Houston-which I understand if you can't find any, or maybe try to send money to sara/amanda my roommies and they could look around here? I don't know...just a thought, if not it's OK-I'm sure the Russians won't care. 8)
Well the older missionaries are leaving in a couple weeks then we will be the old ones and new missionaries will come in-hard to believe. O yea! I have seen Greg Hyatt multiple times and he seems to be doing well, and I also have seen Kirsten who works here and am excited to here that Jason will be working here soon, so it will be fun to see familiar faces. I've also seen Elders Hancock and Beck multiple times and they both seem to be adjusting well.
Well I can't think of anything else at the moment and my time is almost up but I want you all to know how much I love you and appreciate your support and prayers-they really do make a difference that I can feel in my life every day. The language is coming and is a good source of humility for me, and really helps me to rely on the Lord. In two weeks we will be teaching the first lesson in Russian so we'll see how that goes. 8) Prolly not as long as when we speak in English-we won't have a hard time simplifying the gospel then. 8)
I know that Jesus is our savior and has suffered for our sins so that we may return and live with our Heavenly Father out of love and obedience-things that I'm striving to develop well here in the MTC. I know that through the gospel we can have so much happiness-far more than anything else we can do in this life and God wants us to be happy and return to him-the commandments and rules aren't an annoyance but a blessing to help us avoid things that will make us sad or not be able to return to Him. I love you all and encourage you to study Preach my Gospel as well as read from the Book of Mormon everyday and when you do, read with a purpose-have a question or concept you're trying to understand better and you'll get SO much more out of it-you'll not only feel the spirit but increase your knowledge which is why we're here.
I love you all!
Keep the letters and love coming 8)
Cectpa Richards
Hello Everyone!
It's been great to hear from everyone and the exciting changes and developments in everyone's lives. I was sooo excited to get a letter from Heather and Sara! I'll be sure to write each of them separately. 8)
Well it's hard to believe that I've been here for a month on Saturday. I've been greatly blessed with a great comp and a WONDERFUL district. We are really united and everyone is open and teachable with everyone which really improves our development. We are trying to have some fun too of course with the occasional fits of the giggles that always seem to come around 1-2 o'clock in the afternoon....Russian kind of does that to your brain after prolonged periods of time. 8)
The temple was of course beautiful and peaceful today. I can't believe that two of my friends are married now! It's fun to think that they are going to the temple just like me even though we can't see each other. I sooo wish I could have gone to Heather's wedding-especially since Grandpa was the one to do it, but I'm sure he'll write to me and tell me how it went and the feelings he had while visiting with them.
Steve, way to start school...i know it's a nice change of pace but also a load of stress-try to enjoy it and keep a positive attitude-you'd be surprised how much that makes all of your assignments and projects doable.
I'm of course excited/sad for the football season to start-i so wish i could be there decked out in blue and getting hoarse, but I'm sure my boys will deliver once again-be sure to keep me updated (which I know Dad will). And that's so great about Gavin doing so well! Wow France...
Mike and fam, how are you all doing?? Thanks sooo much for the letters and news from your area of the world. O yea! Quick question for you guys since you are in the area, do you know an Annie Highland? (I'm not 100% sure on the last name) who lives in Bartlesville? I'm wondering because an elder in our district-his mom got a letter from another mom who's daughter is serving in Russia (not anywhere near me) and apparently there was a kidnapping-nothing serious, but when they were tracting some guy grabbed them as they were turning to go and locked them in a room. They weren't harmed in anyway and got out fine-not sure how, but still it's def making me happy I'm going to Rostov and not that mission, but anywho-I was wondering if you or mom and dad knew a family in Bartlesville by something like that name...not sure if it's Highland. Anywho, Pres. Hinckley sent a member of the 70 to talk to her and make sure she was alright which she is and is continuing to work. I know the Lord looked out for her just as he'll look out for all of us so I'm not worried- so don't you worry ok mom? I know it's your nature and all, but try to fight it! 8) Anywho, exciting times!
Eric, how's it going? Are you finished and studying the random dialects yet - or not quite? Let me know how they treat you, and also where you will be going next!
Grandpa Adams, thanks so much for your support and charity in helping me serve my mission-it means so much! I'm constantly overwhelmed by everyone's generosity and how the Lord helps his missionaries who are trying to serve him. I love you and if you ask me your days sound great-not humdrum...I could use a lil humdrum with this language, but alas it always seems to keep me on my toes, brain firing on all cylinders.
Dad, that's great that you're racking up the frequent flyer miles...I don't suppose South West goes to Russia do they-you could use them. 8) How is the racquetball going-still making young men cry? Be sure to keep me up-to-date with the football and bball seasons, and let me know when you get a calling! I could see something like teaching the elder's quorum or something...
Mom, how are things? I think it's great that you guys are spending time with the Schearers and having fun with them-they're great! how big is their lil Heber now?
I was wondering...prolly not gonna happen, but i was wondering if you could maybe send me some sweater vests-like the one I got at the missionary mall that was white and I think a size small....but just different colors-I'm basically trying to get more color in my wardrobe and sweater vests that you can mix and match with things really add variety to a small wardrobe. either you could look around in Houston-which I understand if you can't find any, or maybe try to send money to sara/amanda my roommies and they could look around here? I don't know...just a thought, if not it's OK-I'm sure the Russians won't care. 8)
Well the older missionaries are leaving in a couple weeks then we will be the old ones and new missionaries will come in-hard to believe. O yea! I have seen Greg Hyatt multiple times and he seems to be doing well, and I also have seen Kirsten who works here and am excited to here that Jason will be working here soon, so it will be fun to see familiar faces. I've also seen Elders Hancock and Beck multiple times and they both seem to be adjusting well.
Well I can't think of anything else at the moment and my time is almost up but I want you all to know how much I love you and appreciate your support and prayers-they really do make a difference that I can feel in my life every day. The language is coming and is a good source of humility for me, and really helps me to rely on the Lord. In two weeks we will be teaching the first lesson in Russian so we'll see how that goes. 8) Prolly not as long as when we speak in English-we won't have a hard time simplifying the gospel then. 8)
I know that Jesus is our savior and has suffered for our sins so that we may return and live with our Heavenly Father out of love and obedience-things that I'm striving to develop well here in the MTC. I know that through the gospel we can have so much happiness-far more than anything else we can do in this life and God wants us to be happy and return to him-the commandments and rules aren't an annoyance but a blessing to help us avoid things that will make us sad or not be able to return to Him. I love you all and encourage you to study Preach my Gospel as well as read from the Book of Mormon everyday and when you do, read with a purpose-have a question or concept you're trying to understand better and you'll get SO much more out of it-you'll not only feel the spirit but increase your knowledge which is why we're here.
I love you all!
Keep the letters and love coming 8)
Cectpa Richards
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Engrush
Another week has come and gone. That's really nice of you mom, to send my roommates that movie. Now for Dad's questions:
I get a half an hour for emails reading and sending-a lil red clock is ticking down on my screen as we speak so keep that in mind!
I check my emails after my session at the temple on my p-day which is Tuesday and it's generally around 9:45-10:00 so that's when to expect my emails; and this will remain throughout my stay here at the MTC
DearElder is working great-we get those letters later in the day after dinner and any hand written letters are received in the afternoon after lunch-ish.
Let's see....in my district it's me, Elder Brimley, Hatch, and Elder Barrowes and two of my roommates (not my comp.) who are in another district are going to Russia as well (we're the three girls)
I haven't heard anything about my visa yet-none of us have, but there are announcements during meals etc for certain elders/sisters to go to front desk-maybe this is why, so hopefully I'll hear my name soon.
I haven't really spent any money in the MTC. Our lil meal cards take care of meals as well as we receive $8 dollars every week for random things like using it in the bookstore or vending machines. I'm going today to get some supplies from the bookstore and will look at a lil dress shop that they have to see if I can add some color to my wardrobe, but I received a lot of cash on the day I entered the MTC (thank you all) so I haven't had to use my debit card at all.
Thank you all for writing-I can't stress enough how much receiving a letter or package (esp. packages) brightens our days here and gives us bragging rights! 8)
Thanks for your letter Steve-and yes I did understand it, don't you love the timing of it all? Story of my life. 8) I'm excited for your band season-give it your all and it will be worth it, you know that, and it's the same with life and the gospel. I love the temple because it brings everything into beautiful and simple focus and things that seemed hard suddenly don't.
The language is coming and me and my comp are striving to use all of the Russian we know within our English so we've got a Spanglish thing going on only it's .....Engrush or something....anywho, the MTC is amazing and yes we did hear about Pres. Faust's death- we wondered how the rest of the church would hear and when, if it was enough to make the news. We were able to watch his broadcast-but I'm assuming you've received my letter talking about it so I'll move on.
Have you been receiving my letters? I hope so because of this email I don't really write letters to you unless there's a specific purpose.
I'll be sure to send home all of the letters I've received. Oh yea! and if you're sending that package to my friends, please write them and tell them that I would love to hear from them as well as maybe receive some pictures from the weddings or something to let me know how it went etc. since I couldn't be there.
O yea! There's an elder in my district-Elder Doorman who has noticed my singing voice (we sing a lot here, at the beginning and end of every class, devotional etc, and he was a MDT (music, dance,and theatre) major so he wants to do a special number for sacrament meeting which should be nice since I haven't been able to really sing a proper duet with a guy (erm, elder) before, so I'll let you know what we decide to do. My comp keeps telling me to try out to do a musical number for the big devotionals/fireside, so we'll see.
I love you all and love you and your support. Keep me in touch with what's going on in the family and try to share the gospel-as simply as stating what you believe to those around you, they'll feel your sincerity and it will impress them if nothing else.
I would write in Russian, but I don't know the characters on this keyboard so i'll do it phonetically:
Ya lueblue vas E ya znie-oo shtow boge sheev E shtow own luebeet vas. Yeslee mwee slue-shaem proprokee, boge boodee-et blagaslaveet hac.
I love you and I know that God lives and I know that He loves you. If we listen to the prophets God will bless us.
Luv,
Whit
I get a half an hour for emails reading and sending-a lil red clock is ticking down on my screen as we speak so keep that in mind!
I check my emails after my session at the temple on my p-day which is Tuesday and it's generally around 9:45-10:00 so that's when to expect my emails; and this will remain throughout my stay here at the MTC
DearElder is working great-we get those letters later in the day after dinner and any hand written letters are received in the afternoon after lunch-ish.
Let's see....in my district it's me, Elder Brimley, Hatch, and Elder Barrowes and two of my roommates (not my comp.) who are in another district are going to Russia as well (we're the three girls)
I haven't heard anything about my visa yet-none of us have, but there are announcements during meals etc for certain elders/sisters to go to front desk-maybe this is why, so hopefully I'll hear my name soon.
I haven't really spent any money in the MTC. Our lil meal cards take care of meals as well as we receive $8 dollars every week for random things like using it in the bookstore or vending machines. I'm going today to get some supplies from the bookstore and will look at a lil dress shop that they have to see if I can add some color to my wardrobe, but I received a lot of cash on the day I entered the MTC (thank you all) so I haven't had to use my debit card at all.
Thank you all for writing-I can't stress enough how much receiving a letter or package (esp. packages) brightens our days here and gives us bragging rights! 8)
Thanks for your letter Steve-and yes I did understand it, don't you love the timing of it all? Story of my life. 8) I'm excited for your band season-give it your all and it will be worth it, you know that, and it's the same with life and the gospel. I love the temple because it brings everything into beautiful and simple focus and things that seemed hard suddenly don't.
The language is coming and me and my comp are striving to use all of the Russian we know within our English so we've got a Spanglish thing going on only it's .....Engrush or something....anywho, the MTC is amazing and yes we did hear about Pres. Faust's death- we wondered how the rest of the church would hear and when, if it was enough to make the news. We were able to watch his broadcast-but I'm assuming you've received my letter talking about it so I'll move on.
Have you been receiving my letters? I hope so because of this email I don't really write letters to you unless there's a specific purpose.
I'll be sure to send home all of the letters I've received. Oh yea! and if you're sending that package to my friends, please write them and tell them that I would love to hear from them as well as maybe receive some pictures from the weddings or something to let me know how it went etc. since I couldn't be there.
O yea! There's an elder in my district-Elder Doorman who has noticed my singing voice (we sing a lot here, at the beginning and end of every class, devotional etc, and he was a MDT (music, dance,and theatre) major so he wants to do a special number for sacrament meeting which should be nice since I haven't been able to really sing a proper duet with a guy (erm, elder) before, so I'll let you know what we decide to do. My comp keeps telling me to try out to do a musical number for the big devotionals/fireside, so we'll see.
I love you all and love you and your support. Keep me in touch with what's going on in the family and try to share the gospel-as simply as stating what you believe to those around you, they'll feel your sincerity and it will impress them if nothing else.
I would write in Russian, but I don't know the characters on this keyboard so i'll do it phonetically:
Ya lueblue vas E ya znie-oo shtow boge sheev E shtow own luebeet vas. Yeslee mwee slue-shaem proprokee, boge boodee-et blagaslaveet hac.
I love you and I know that God lives and I know that He loves you. If we listen to the prophets God will bless us.
Luv,
Whit
Kodak Moment
I wanted to share a picture of Whitney and our family on the day she gave her talk at church just before begining her mission to Russia.
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