"So let me get this right. You aren't going to watch another football game for the rest of the year?"
"Yes... well, no. I mean, You are correct in that statement"
Long pause. "Why not?"
And here is where the background information shall be revealed. I shall start by saying it was a bipolar week; Wonderful highs mixed with painful and maddening lows. I shall begin with the end, as I have already done, and proceed backwards through this last week.
The reason I did not post a blog yesterday is because my father, in all his care and worry, but quite possibly in an effort to probably try and call what he assumed to be a bluff on my part, took me to the hospital to get my hand examined and x-rayed. You see, I had a rather unfortunate Sunday night as a Packer fan.I have allowed these events, which I have no control over and no impact on, to have a huge impact on the way my week goes. I have gotten amazingly better at accepting a win as a win, no matter how ugly, and everyone loses at some point so I can accept those with some form of dignity. However, when every contest against the Giants brings us a visual debacle in which receivers don't separate, lineman come out of their stance and then just get knocked back, linebackers seem to not flow to the ball carrier or their coverage assignment, and Rodgers refuses to get rid of the ball, seems frightened the whole time, and misses wide open catchers, then I get rather upset. No matter how how the Pack is and how downtrodden the Giants, we never play a good game against them. I stopped watching after McCarthy settled for a field goal at the 10 yard line. We had gotten kicked up and down the field to the tune of 24 points, and then got stopped 4 inches short of a first down. When you are getting beat that bad, a field goal is like putting a band-aid on a gash; it's a sign that you are resigned tot he fact that you are done, and you just want to make it seem that you are still trying. With 3:30 left in the half, you punch back and show YOUR team that you are still in this fight, that they are still swinging to win. I know I'm not no coach, and definitely no McCarthy, but that is my opinion. The Pack seemingly given up, so I gave up, and proceeded to spend the rest of the night doing two things; laundry and hitting my punching bag. I do not have boxing gloves, so both my wrist and my knuckles tend to get quite a punishment during my round with the bag, and in this case I appear to have jammed my right ring knuckle down and back into my hand and also pushed my middle knuckle (also on the right hand) further toward my thumb than is natural. My knuckles are scraped pretty raw, too. I was fine with it, but when my dad saw it in the morning, he began to contended warmly with me regarding 'throwing future away by letting my hand shrivel up and wear away' through lack of medical care. We compromised; I went to the hospital under the agreement that I would not have to do anything they told me. So here I am today, typing with a slightly mangled hand. Cheers world! It is due to this outcome that I have decided to not watch football for the rest of the year. It will be a great challenge, but I must resist. I have to know that it is not that important, that it has no right or reason to influence me to beat on a fifty pound bag for 90 minutes.
Anyway, the rest of the week was mostly better. We Spent Wednesday through Saturday with my Aunt and Uncle, Nancy and Keith, and their adorable daughters. I ate like a pig the whole time. I went through 5 bags of candy on the drive to and from Nashville. I had a serving of turkey on Thursday that would have choked a great Red Dragon. I ate an entire pie (pumpkin, of course). I had four steaks, topped with melting cheese and sides of mounding mashed potatoes. I devoured a half dozen turkey, avocado, bacon, and pepper jack tortilla wraps. I ate a salad that filled an entire serving dish, heaped with garbanzo beans, cheese, bacon, turkey, cherry tomatoes, and topped with a Caesar dressing. It was sooooooo good. YUM! The company was spectacular. The little cousins swarmed me, a little too much to be perfectly honest, but they are so sweet, so I was purty okay with it. On the way down we ended up driving through a fog that cut vision to maybe 25 feet in front of the car. Even driving 20 miles an hour slower than normal, it would have given us about .3 seconds to recognize the danger ahead of us, react, and bring the car to a complete stop... not likely. We were actually barely staying on the road while driving through Indiana. But, we saw no accidents and arrived safe. Christmas miracle!
The rest of the week was fairly ho-hum. Not a great deal going on. Doing good. Living... I'm looking for a good book to read though. Any suggestions?
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
The Late Night Post with Curella Deville
It has been two weeks yet again. It is a bit harder to stay consistently posting each and every week when I no longer can only use the internet once a week. How peculiar it is that I seem to be accomplishing far less now that I have almost all day to do whatever I want. On to the real content!
WE have had some amazing weather in Wisconsin these past two weeks. I have gone for runs and ended up shirtless multiple times, I went for a walk tonight and wore only jeans and a T-Shirt. It just began raining again, but I even enjoy the rain at this point. I have always enjoyed rain, as well as fog, so I am hardly bothered by them.
Another wonderfully fun thing that I have done this past fortnight is playing with Quigley. He has seemingly been taking an even greater liking to me since I began to play with his balls whenever he wants... oh, I should probably let everyone know who doesn't that Quigley is my families overly active and exuberant Red Heeler. He is a magnificent dog. Now it is hopefully not so awkward. He has mellowed out a bit relative to where he was when I left for my mission, which is a very good thing. He was almost to the point where he was out of hand and we were considering finding a nice farm for him so he would have all the running room he wanted, but it did not have to come to that.
This past weekend was the highlight of the last 14 days. I was able to go back up to school and see people that I was planning on possibly never seeing again, because that is unfortunately what happens. Once graduation has transpired, your class comes together in a giant group hug, and you all swear to see each other every other weekend for the next entirety of your earthly lives. It is sad that in a lot of cases you never get together again, so I was very pleased that I could see so many of you. To those I haven't seen, I tried, but I am without my former cellular telephonic device, so it made it pretty hard to get in touch with anyone. I shall return!
Happy Thanksgiving to all, and to all a good night.
WE have had some amazing weather in Wisconsin these past two weeks. I have gone for runs and ended up shirtless multiple times, I went for a walk tonight and wore only jeans and a T-Shirt. It just began raining again, but I even enjoy the rain at this point. I have always enjoyed rain, as well as fog, so I am hardly bothered by them.
Another wonderfully fun thing that I have done this past fortnight is playing with Quigley. He has seemingly been taking an even greater liking to me since I began to play with his balls whenever he wants... oh, I should probably let everyone know who doesn't that Quigley is my families overly active and exuberant Red Heeler. He is a magnificent dog. Now it is hopefully not so awkward. He has mellowed out a bit relative to where he was when I left for my mission, which is a very good thing. He was almost to the point where he was out of hand and we were considering finding a nice farm for him so he would have all the running room he wanted, but it did not have to come to that.
This past weekend was the highlight of the last 14 days. I was able to go back up to school and see people that I was planning on possibly never seeing again, because that is unfortunately what happens. Once graduation has transpired, your class comes together in a giant group hug, and you all swear to see each other every other weekend for the next entirety of your earthly lives. It is sad that in a lot of cases you never get together again, so I was very pleased that I could see so many of you. To those I haven't seen, I tried, but I am without my former cellular telephonic device, so it made it pretty hard to get in touch with anyone. I shall return!
Happy Thanksgiving to all, and to all a good night.
Monday, November 5, 2012
Home Field Advantage
I must say that I love Packer games. After the Packers went a combined 0-6 with me in attendance, they have won the last two when I have made my presence felt. That puts a good feeling in my stomach. I felt very guilty about cheering them into defeat for the last 22 years while sitting on the benches of Lambeau Field, but the last 10 months have been much better. It was a great win for the ground game, and the defense was great on (most) third down stands. Casey Hayward gets to the ball. I was unsure about him coming out of Vandy, but he has performed better than I expected. Brad Jones has returned to his rookie form after spending far too much time being purely mediocre. Ryan Taylor can block. Defenses are going to start watching Crabtree, the ugliest man in the NFL. Rodgers showed his feet but was both high and low on way too many throws. It was good to see some hard running from Green and Starks. I miss Kuhn, Nelson, Woodson, and Jennings, and will be missing Matthews.
This past Friday, I was given the opportunity from my great-great-grandfather, Adam Mason, to fly up from south Milwaukee. He needed a plane, and asked me to accompany him in fetching one. It was a lot of fun to fly at night. I have been doing a lot of flying the last six months, and will fly again in December. To Utah, to Cali, back to Milwaukee, then flying into Sheboygan. Next month, I will fly to Denver, where my brother Tom and I will be reunited in an overt display of flamboyance that would get us court marshalled if we were in the military. From there, we shall travel to Phoenix to see our beautiful sister, her hunky hubby, and our oh-so-cute nephew. I may even run a race down there in AZ.
I have also been doing some cooking. My mother has taken to sending me recipes and telling me to just follow the directions, and wouldn't you know it, it works. Isn't that incredible? I have added Chicken White Chili and a charcoal cooked Ham to my thus far still short list of achievements, but I am working on expanding my culinary horizons.
I think that about wraps it up... except that Ke$ha and Gangnam have been stuck in my head all week.
This past Friday, I was given the opportunity from my great-great-grandfather, Adam Mason, to fly up from south Milwaukee. He needed a plane, and asked me to accompany him in fetching one. It was a lot of fun to fly at night. I have been doing a lot of flying the last six months, and will fly again in December. To Utah, to Cali, back to Milwaukee, then flying into Sheboygan. Next month, I will fly to Denver, where my brother Tom and I will be reunited in an overt display of flamboyance that would get us court marshalled if we were in the military. From there, we shall travel to Phoenix to see our beautiful sister, her hunky hubby, and our oh-so-cute nephew. I may even run a race down there in AZ.
I have also been doing some cooking. My mother has taken to sending me recipes and telling me to just follow the directions, and wouldn't you know it, it works. Isn't that incredible? I have added Chicken White Chili and a charcoal cooked Ham to my thus far still short list of achievements, but I am working on expanding my culinary horizons.
I think that about wraps it up... except that Ke$ha and Gangnam have been stuck in my head all week.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Two-fer tuesday
Well, that was a little awkward... (Oct 22nd)
So I had a plan. It was a good plan, as far as I was concerned. In fact, you might be able to say it was a Plan, or maybe even "A Plan." In other words, this was some big time stuff that I had planned (or Planned). I was almost certain of it. I had done what I felt was necessary to make this plan of mine effective. I had followed through and followed up. I had worked and organized. I even gave up a number of pairs of shoes to accomplish my intended outcome. Well, my plan is no longer working. It has fallen kaput. It is a broken plan. But the good news is I have a better one now.
This last week was very interesting for me. For starters, my plan was nullified. But to continue, with two weeks left in the transfer, I was removed from the Lodi 1st Ward. I found out Monday night, and left Tuesday morning. I rode out with the sunrise, which I felt was rather poetic. Our car also got a flat on the way north toward Sacramento, which was rather less poetic. The rest of the week was a breeze. Running in the morning, some lifting, some reading of scriptures, meeting with Bishops and Stake Presidents and Stake YSA Coordinators, Elders Quorum Presidents and the like. Too be honest, I was very shocked at the love and welcome that I received. It was so inspiring and uplifting.
When things seem to be going wrong, there is always something you can do; the right thing. Pres. Thomas S. Monson said 'you can't be right by doing wrong, and you can't be wrong by doing right.' As long as we do what we know to be right, what we know to be true, everything will work out in the end. I can attest to and testify of that.
Swimming... it's hard (Oct 30th)
For most people that know me, they understand that I am not a natural swimmer (See "gasp!", posted Dec. 15th, 2011). My lower body is somewhat stocky compared to my upper body. I have thick set legs and a rather rounded and protruding rump. I have a great tendency to sick upon placing myself in the water. In fact, I spent three years trying to pass Level 3 swim classes at the local YMCA and through the Sheboygan Area Recreation Department. It was not so much that I didn't know how to swim... I simply swam from the bottom of the pool which constituted as a failing performance. Well, I have tried swimming only a mere 2 times since the Fall of 2010. Both times were with members of the wonderful and exquisite Pond family. Both times I was out performed by the women in this family. Now I would like to state that I am perfectly fine to be put to shame by that (which I guess would mean that I was not actually put to shame...) mainly due to the fact that Kjirsten is a magnificent swimmer and Sis. Pond is the sort of calmly competitive person that would, without getting in anyone's face about it, beat a Carni in a juggling competition by sheer willpower. I think about these instances of swimming and realize something; I lack conviction. I am perfectly willing to work hard as long as it isn't too difficult. I will run long, run fast, lift, read, study, but I am willing to take a break whenever it becomes taxing. I have a lot to learn from a lot of people.
So I had a plan. It was a good plan, as far as I was concerned. In fact, you might be able to say it was a Plan, or maybe even "A Plan." In other words, this was some big time stuff that I had planned (or Planned). I was almost certain of it. I had done what I felt was necessary to make this plan of mine effective. I had followed through and followed up. I had worked and organized. I even gave up a number of pairs of shoes to accomplish my intended outcome. Well, my plan is no longer working. It has fallen kaput. It is a broken plan. But the good news is I have a better one now.
This last week was very interesting for me. For starters, my plan was nullified. But to continue, with two weeks left in the transfer, I was removed from the Lodi 1st Ward. I found out Monday night, and left Tuesday morning. I rode out with the sunrise, which I felt was rather poetic. Our car also got a flat on the way north toward Sacramento, which was rather less poetic. The rest of the week was a breeze. Running in the morning, some lifting, some reading of scriptures, meeting with Bishops and Stake Presidents and Stake YSA Coordinators, Elders Quorum Presidents and the like. Too be honest, I was very shocked at the love and welcome that I received. It was so inspiring and uplifting.
When things seem to be going wrong, there is always something you can do; the right thing. Pres. Thomas S. Monson said 'you can't be right by doing wrong, and you can't be wrong by doing right.' As long as we do what we know to be right, what we know to be true, everything will work out in the end. I can attest to and testify of that.
Swimming... it's hard (Oct 30th)
For most people that know me, they understand that I am not a natural swimmer (See "gasp!", posted Dec. 15th, 2011). My lower body is somewhat stocky compared to my upper body. I have thick set legs and a rather rounded and protruding rump. I have a great tendency to sick upon placing myself in the water. In fact, I spent three years trying to pass Level 3 swim classes at the local YMCA and through the Sheboygan Area Recreation Department. It was not so much that I didn't know how to swim... I simply swam from the bottom of the pool which constituted as a failing performance. Well, I have tried swimming only a mere 2 times since the Fall of 2010. Both times were with members of the wonderful and exquisite Pond family. Both times I was out performed by the women in this family. Now I would like to state that I am perfectly fine to be put to shame by that (which I guess would mean that I was not actually put to shame...) mainly due to the fact that Kjirsten is a magnificent swimmer and Sis. Pond is the sort of calmly competitive person that would, without getting in anyone's face about it, beat a Carni in a juggling competition by sheer willpower. I think about these instances of swimming and realize something; I lack conviction. I am perfectly willing to work hard as long as it isn't too difficult. I will run long, run fast, lift, read, study, but I am willing to take a break whenever it becomes taxing. I have a lot to learn from a lot of people.
Monday, October 15, 2012
I was not defeated... I simply postponed my victory!
The crowd gathered. The bets were placed. The challenger was patted on the back, arms were wrapped around his shoulders, there were cheers. He sat down, surrounded by the crowd. Then, the challenge began. He worked, muscles constantly repeating their motion as he pushed himself. He felt the strain, he felt weighed down, and sluggish. Women were crying, and men's hearts sank. He was nowhere near the end... and he stopped. There were groans from the crowd, and they dispersed.
Such was my Thursday morning as the Lodi California Zone missionaries came together to encourage me to eat 15 pancakes at iHop - one for each of the 15 baptisms that our Zone had - to break the Mission record. I stopped at 10. I was okay having not eaten fifteen pancakes, but then my Mission President told the entire Lodi Stake, 10 congregations all gathered together, that a missionary among them attempted, and failed, to eat fifteen pancakes. Challenge accepted! That night, I cooked up and put down a stack of 15 pancakes, one pancake at a time. I was victorious!... and then paid for it this morning when I ran 12 miles. I felt pretty bad this morning, but hey, I was a winner!
This week was quite the roller coaster. A missionary attempted to light my room on fire last week, but I was able to douse the flames before they spread too far. That was rather fun! I have also been listening to a number of church songs, compliments of the Pond family's wonderful package to me, and have been trying to learn the song 'Saviour, Redeemer of my Soul.' I got to go on team ups with my District Leader, Elder Boeke. What a fun guy!
This last Saturday was a lot of fun. Our Zone Leaders came into our room and asked 'Wanna help us cut a tree down?' I ironically stated that I would only do it if I got to borrow a pair of Wranglers. He agreed. We cut the tree down. It was a ton of fun! There was sawdust all up in the air, limbs flying toward the ground, and now and then the resounding thud of a huge branch slamming into the earth. I got lunch out of it. It was Thai food. So goooood! I now own those Wranglers, and am looking into getting a belt and buckle, and really hope I do not turn out to be a Cowboy poser... so I might very well have to help out with branding this fall.
I want to testify to everyone who reads this blog: I know Jesus Christ is my Savior, and that I have found true happiness through serving Him and by turning to Him. This last week was a witness to me that the Gospel is true, the Church is true, and that the love our Heavenly Father has for us is true. It is powerful. The Book of Mormon inspires and directs. Thomas S. Monson is the Prophet of God leading the Church today. And it is up to every one of us to choose for ourselves to follow those promptings from the Spirit.
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
Such was my Thursday morning as the Lodi California Zone missionaries came together to encourage me to eat 15 pancakes at iHop - one for each of the 15 baptisms that our Zone had - to break the Mission record. I stopped at 10. I was okay having not eaten fifteen pancakes, but then my Mission President told the entire Lodi Stake, 10 congregations all gathered together, that a missionary among them attempted, and failed, to eat fifteen pancakes. Challenge accepted! That night, I cooked up and put down a stack of 15 pancakes, one pancake at a time. I was victorious!... and then paid for it this morning when I ran 12 miles. I felt pretty bad this morning, but hey, I was a winner!
This week was quite the roller coaster. A missionary attempted to light my room on fire last week, but I was able to douse the flames before they spread too far. That was rather fun! I have also been listening to a number of church songs, compliments of the Pond family's wonderful package to me, and have been trying to learn the song 'Saviour, Redeemer of my Soul.' I got to go on team ups with my District Leader, Elder Boeke. What a fun guy!
This last Saturday was a lot of fun. Our Zone Leaders came into our room and asked 'Wanna help us cut a tree down?' I ironically stated that I would only do it if I got to borrow a pair of Wranglers. He agreed. We cut the tree down. It was a ton of fun! There was sawdust all up in the air, limbs flying toward the ground, and now and then the resounding thud of a huge branch slamming into the earth. I got lunch out of it. It was Thai food. So goooood! I now own those Wranglers, and am looking into getting a belt and buckle, and really hope I do not turn out to be a Cowboy poser... so I might very well have to help out with branding this fall.
I want to testify to everyone who reads this blog: I know Jesus Christ is my Savior, and that I have found true happiness through serving Him and by turning to Him. This last week was a witness to me that the Gospel is true, the Church is true, and that the love our Heavenly Father has for us is true. It is powerful. The Book of Mormon inspires and directs. Thomas S. Monson is the Prophet of God leading the Church today. And it is up to every one of us to choose for ourselves to follow those promptings from the Spirit.
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
Monday, October 8, 2012
The Evolution of Dance
The Evolution of Dance!
I just thought of that YouTube video. If you haven't seen it, do. It is very enjoyable.
The reason the title of this blog came to be is because the original title would simply be 'Evolution', which is not a nod to that wondrous sailing ship that docks in Sheboygan's Harbor, as my father may be postulating. No, it is instead a nod to the title of my blog overall; My Metamorphosis. It is how I have come to change, and what those changes are.
First, I was eating less... not very important, but I know that I can do it, which is encouraging. But I am now training to prepare to break our Mission's iHop pancakes record.
Far more important is the change that has taken place of a spiritual nature. I remember writing about General Conference a year ago on this very blog. If you remember, General Conference is the opportunity we have as members of the church, as well as most EVERYONE in the ENTIRE world (except those that are actually cut off from the rest of the world) to hear the testimonies of the prophets of God... and we get to watch it on TV. This would also be the first time that I would watch all 5 sessions available to me, each 2 hours long. Back home, I would consider watching 2 sessions a success, and I would have slept for 20 minutes in both. The very first news, that 2 new temples will be built in Tucson and Peru, was fabulous. The second, however, was groundbreaking; worthy young men in possession of a high school diploma would be eligible to serve a mission at 18 years of age, as opposed to 19, and worthy young women would qualify at 19 instead of 21... what a fantastic announcement. There are so many people that have been anxious to serve sooner than 19, and have been working toward it with eager haste, only to find that they are now qualified individuals. I immediately began to go through numbers in my head trying to determine how many missionaries I believe that we will have by the time I go home, and it is encouraging what I came up with. I can't wait to see my first 18 year old in the Sacramento CA Mission!!!
I worked to focus on, and take notes from, and seek inspiration regarding the talks given (which you will be able to find on www.lds.org). After reviewing them, I was able to discern that what I needed to do was become converted. Over the last few weeks and months, I have been trying to change what I desire. I cannot change who I am, but an interesting point brought up by Bro. Judd from the Lodi 2nd ward is that who we are and what we are can be two very different things. My desires and goals make me what I am. I have difficulty changing that. I, at times, don't want to do what I am told to do by thousands-of-years-dead prophets. I want to do other things. But lately, I have been working on humility. Through that, I am improving on diligence. Through diligence, I find that I am improving in areas of a temporal as well as spiritual nature more easily, because I am more ready to work to change. For those who know me decently well, you may very well know that my goal has been to play football... but since I know that is not a possibility (at least not a likely one at the NFL level), I decided to use my mind to help my team win by becoming a Sports Economist and going into scouting. However, I decided this week that by working in the NFL, I would be limiting myself from the callings I may receive in the Sunday School or Young Men's programs. I would be taking myself away from the opportunity I have to serve and grow my own testimony, so I am now thinking about college level scouting and coaching, as well as teaching. It was not as painful a decision to make as I thought it may be, and I think my life will be blessed by it.
Also, I got to talking to one person about the Plan of Salvation, or the Eternal Plan of Happiness, that allows us to overcome our shortcomings through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and return to live in everlasting life and glory with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ through faith, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. The faith that we exhibit as devout and faithful Christians brought to this girl's memory a conversation she had with someone regarding her requirements for her future husband. It was inspiring. Everything she mentioned was about the spiritual devotion her partner must have, and she said that "as I am running toward God I look to the side and he is beside me, and we grab each others hands and run to Him together." I am nowhere near what I consider converted. I am still far too 'human', far too willing to rest upon my goals and my plans as opposed to living up to the expectations our Father in Heaven has for me.
I was able to experience a magnificent thing this week. My companion's tire went flat. Now that is not what is encouraging, but what I love is that I had been up and down that particular street in Lodi 3 times, and there was a man who I had talked to before in his garage, and I kept putting off going back to talk to him, but because Eld. Nethercott's tire went flat, and the 4 people we asked did not have a bike pump, I decided to talk to this man about a bike pump, NOT about the Gospel. As soon as I stepped up and greeted him, he lambasted me for taking my time to come back and talk to him, it having been a little over two weeks since I had been there. He told me he had problems with the church, with RELIGION and to know God we must be like Him, and work with our hands in the earth. He told me to "lose the bike, lose the tie, lose the white shirt, and Work with Your HANDS!!!" I listened earnestly and politely and intently to him for 7 to 9 minutes, then stepped forward, and began to share my testimony of the truthfulness of what he said; we must work. To know God, we must try and emulate Him. The man's scowl left his face and he began to smile. He offered me a chair, and I talked to him about life and the impact faith has on our actions. 30 minutes later, he told me that I was a special spirit, a great person, a loving and caring and unique individual. I need to teach, and counsel, and lead people, but, even more, bear my testimony in how I live my life, not through the words I speak. I agreed largely with what he said to me, and we said a prayer, and this man, who had very recently had three neck and back surgeries, embraced me and told me he loved me.
I had a great need to be encouraged at this point, and I know that I was guided by the Spirit to talk to him. I needed to hear those words, to be uplifted by a man who was upsetting his wife (who we apologized to numerous times) because he was ignoring her birthday to speak to us. I grew that day. I changed that day.
I love my Savior, my Father in Heaven. I love this Gospel and the love I get from Prophets and Apostles. I am so blessed, and I am finding that my family is being blessed as well. I bear my testimony that this work that I am doing every day is work ordained, supported, and aided by God. I cannot do this work alone, but He helps me do His work.
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
I just thought of that YouTube video. If you haven't seen it, do. It is very enjoyable.
The reason the title of this blog came to be is because the original title would simply be 'Evolution', which is not a nod to that wondrous sailing ship that docks in Sheboygan's Harbor, as my father may be postulating. No, it is instead a nod to the title of my blog overall; My Metamorphosis. It is how I have come to change, and what those changes are.
First, I was eating less... not very important, but I know that I can do it, which is encouraging. But I am now training to prepare to break our Mission's iHop pancakes record.
Far more important is the change that has taken place of a spiritual nature. I remember writing about General Conference a year ago on this very blog. If you remember, General Conference is the opportunity we have as members of the church, as well as most EVERYONE in the ENTIRE world (except those that are actually cut off from the rest of the world) to hear the testimonies of the prophets of God... and we get to watch it on TV. This would also be the first time that I would watch all 5 sessions available to me, each 2 hours long. Back home, I would consider watching 2 sessions a success, and I would have slept for 20 minutes in both. The very first news, that 2 new temples will be built in Tucson and Peru, was fabulous. The second, however, was groundbreaking; worthy young men in possession of a high school diploma would be eligible to serve a mission at 18 years of age, as opposed to 19, and worthy young women would qualify at 19 instead of 21... what a fantastic announcement. There are so many people that have been anxious to serve sooner than 19, and have been working toward it with eager haste, only to find that they are now qualified individuals. I immediately began to go through numbers in my head trying to determine how many missionaries I believe that we will have by the time I go home, and it is encouraging what I came up with. I can't wait to see my first 18 year old in the Sacramento CA Mission!!!
I worked to focus on, and take notes from, and seek inspiration regarding the talks given (which you will be able to find on www.lds.org). After reviewing them, I was able to discern that what I needed to do was become converted. Over the last few weeks and months, I have been trying to change what I desire. I cannot change who I am, but an interesting point brought up by Bro. Judd from the Lodi 2nd ward is that who we are and what we are can be two very different things. My desires and goals make me what I am. I have difficulty changing that. I, at times, don't want to do what I am told to do by thousands-of-years-dead prophets. I want to do other things. But lately, I have been working on humility. Through that, I am improving on diligence. Through diligence, I find that I am improving in areas of a temporal as well as spiritual nature more easily, because I am more ready to work to change. For those who know me decently well, you may very well know that my goal has been to play football... but since I know that is not a possibility (at least not a likely one at the NFL level), I decided to use my mind to help my team win by becoming a Sports Economist and going into scouting. However, I decided this week that by working in the NFL, I would be limiting myself from the callings I may receive in the Sunday School or Young Men's programs. I would be taking myself away from the opportunity I have to serve and grow my own testimony, so I am now thinking about college level scouting and coaching, as well as teaching. It was not as painful a decision to make as I thought it may be, and I think my life will be blessed by it.
Also, I got to talking to one person about the Plan of Salvation, or the Eternal Plan of Happiness, that allows us to overcome our shortcomings through the Atonement of Jesus Christ and return to live in everlasting life and glory with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ through faith, repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. The faith that we exhibit as devout and faithful Christians brought to this girl's memory a conversation she had with someone regarding her requirements for her future husband. It was inspiring. Everything she mentioned was about the spiritual devotion her partner must have, and she said that "as I am running toward God I look to the side and he is beside me, and we grab each others hands and run to Him together." I am nowhere near what I consider converted. I am still far too 'human', far too willing to rest upon my goals and my plans as opposed to living up to the expectations our Father in Heaven has for me.
I was able to experience a magnificent thing this week. My companion's tire went flat. Now that is not what is encouraging, but what I love is that I had been up and down that particular street in Lodi 3 times, and there was a man who I had talked to before in his garage, and I kept putting off going back to talk to him, but because Eld. Nethercott's tire went flat, and the 4 people we asked did not have a bike pump, I decided to talk to this man about a bike pump, NOT about the Gospel. As soon as I stepped up and greeted him, he lambasted me for taking my time to come back and talk to him, it having been a little over two weeks since I had been there. He told me he had problems with the church, with RELIGION and to know God we must be like Him, and work with our hands in the earth. He told me to "lose the bike, lose the tie, lose the white shirt, and Work with Your HANDS!!!" I listened earnestly and politely and intently to him for 7 to 9 minutes, then stepped forward, and began to share my testimony of the truthfulness of what he said; we must work. To know God, we must try and emulate Him. The man's scowl left his face and he began to smile. He offered me a chair, and I talked to him about life and the impact faith has on our actions. 30 minutes later, he told me that I was a special spirit, a great person, a loving and caring and unique individual. I need to teach, and counsel, and lead people, but, even more, bear my testimony in how I live my life, not through the words I speak. I agreed largely with what he said to me, and we said a prayer, and this man, who had very recently had three neck and back surgeries, embraced me and told me he loved me.
I had a great need to be encouraged at this point, and I know that I was guided by the Spirit to talk to him. I needed to hear those words, to be uplifted by a man who was upsetting his wife (who we apologized to numerous times) because he was ignoring her birthday to speak to us. I grew that day. I changed that day.
I love my Savior, my Father in Heaven. I love this Gospel and the love I get from Prophets and Apostles. I am so blessed, and I am finding that my family is being blessed as well. I bear my testimony that this work that I am doing every day is work ordained, supported, and aided by God. I cannot do this work alone, but He helps me do His work.
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
Monday, October 1, 2012
Isolated
We had no phone. We could not even contact anyone to let them know our troubles. Our mail delivery was on hold. We could not write our office to let them know our plight. For 4 days, we were stuck in limbo. We could do nothing! Such was our state last week. We did not have mail delivered to our apartment for 11 days! We decided to discover the cause for this by calling our Mission Office, but our phone had ceased to function. We could not contact investigators. We could not call our members. We floundered in the depths of fear and loneliness... not really, but it did make things quite difficult for us. We also spent a day in when our Zone Leader, Elder Vaughn, spent the day with a non-serious case of Montezuma's Revenge, so the results of this past week were somewhat less than satisfactory... but we ended the week with a baptism!!!
Bro. Davis had been going through a number of trials in his life on so many fronts. Undeterred by these tribulations, he pressed forward, with a steadfast faith in Christ and the power of His atonement (2 Nephi 31:20). I have been teaching him since I arrived in Lodi in late June. He is amazing, and I was honored and humbled to be there for him.
In an effort to draw closer to Christ myself, I began to read 'Jesus the Christ' by James E. Talmage. It is a fantastic book, and sparks within me a desire to read the Pearl of Great Price. Talmage's book is over 700 pages and speaks of Christ's life before earth, His ministry on earth, His purpose, His plan, everything! I am really enjoying it in a way I never could have even 2 months ago. When my brother Brandon sent me the book, I was almost reluctant to take it with me on my mission. I am so glad that I packed it. It has strengthened my testimony and reinforced my knowledge.
Wednesday morning found me in the bathroom, shaving as I sang 'Oh Holy Night.' Admittedly, I started singing that song last year on September 9th, so I am closer to Christmas this year, but I almost began to scold myself about my pre-October festivities when I dwelled on something; I should be celebrating Christ at all times in my life. So, apologies to any who will be annoyed, but I am now singing Christmas songs.
Elder Nethercott and I have found ourselves doing a great deal of one thing; tracting. We go from one door to the next, picking a street for the morning, another for the afternoon, and a last for the evening. We knock every door on the street, and do our best to share our testimony with everyone we talk to. I was getting somewhat down on myself at the lack of success that tracting normally has, so I thought of the alternatives, and about how I could be napping in the apartment, or at least studying the Book of Mormon. Then, the Holy Ghost saw fit to grace me with an inspiring thought; if I were back in the apartment, I would be disappointed that I was not out working. I wouldn't enjoy the rest. The slothful acts would hang over me like a bright neon sign. For the rest of the night, I was upbeat, and I hope that it will carry through the next 20 months+.
Three more things of a spiritual nature before I close. Bro. Lance, a young man still not out of college, but with a wife and child and 2 years good service in Ireland, bore his testimony yesterday on prayer. He shared the Book of Mormon with someone in Ireland as a missionary just as the woman's friends, who are member drove past and honked their horn. Bro. Lance met with that family the next day, and they told him that that morning, they prayed that they could share the gospel with this woman that the missionaries met on the street. He says "When we pray specifically the Lord gives us specific answers." It hardly gets more specific than that!
Before church began, Elder Nethercott and I met with our ward mission leader (WML), Matt Anderson. To be blunt, Matt is not the best of WML's. He admits it. He tells every new missionary to not even have expectations for him, but I like, admire, and want to work hard for him, so he is a great WML for me. To stay on topic, we were discussing our teaching, and he made a comment that basically meant that what we need to teach is the Atonement, because that is what matters. We need to teach of Christ's ministry, because that is how we learn to come unto Him. We need to teach of his miracles, because they are testimonies of the Priesthood. He has a POWERFUL testimony, and it lifted me up and inspired me.
Lastly, we met with our Mission President last night at a fireside, or a seminar of sorts, where two recent converts bore their testimonies. They were able to feel the Spirit of Christ because people opened their mouths and shared their love for Christ with them. How selfish would it be to hold that for yourself, to not share your testimony, that knowledge you have of the changing power of the Atonement? I used to hold it, to hide it away. Now, I want to share it, but I am still unsure how. I pray for the day that I may share it with loving boldness with anyone who asks.
I love this Gospel, and the blessings it gives me and my family. I love my Heavenly Father, and my Savior Jesus Christ. I am so blessed to be living where and when I am, and can not even fathom how greatly the Lord's hand plays in my life.
With love to you all,
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave.
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
Bro. Davis had been going through a number of trials in his life on so many fronts. Undeterred by these tribulations, he pressed forward, with a steadfast faith in Christ and the power of His atonement (2 Nephi 31:20). I have been teaching him since I arrived in Lodi in late June. He is amazing, and I was honored and humbled to be there for him.
In an effort to draw closer to Christ myself, I began to read 'Jesus the Christ' by James E. Talmage. It is a fantastic book, and sparks within me a desire to read the Pearl of Great Price. Talmage's book is over 700 pages and speaks of Christ's life before earth, His ministry on earth, His purpose, His plan, everything! I am really enjoying it in a way I never could have even 2 months ago. When my brother Brandon sent me the book, I was almost reluctant to take it with me on my mission. I am so glad that I packed it. It has strengthened my testimony and reinforced my knowledge.
Wednesday morning found me in the bathroom, shaving as I sang 'Oh Holy Night.' Admittedly, I started singing that song last year on September 9th, so I am closer to Christmas this year, but I almost began to scold myself about my pre-October festivities when I dwelled on something; I should be celebrating Christ at all times in my life. So, apologies to any who will be annoyed, but I am now singing Christmas songs.
Elder Nethercott and I have found ourselves doing a great deal of one thing; tracting. We go from one door to the next, picking a street for the morning, another for the afternoon, and a last for the evening. We knock every door on the street, and do our best to share our testimony with everyone we talk to. I was getting somewhat down on myself at the lack of success that tracting normally has, so I thought of the alternatives, and about how I could be napping in the apartment, or at least studying the Book of Mormon. Then, the Holy Ghost saw fit to grace me with an inspiring thought; if I were back in the apartment, I would be disappointed that I was not out working. I wouldn't enjoy the rest. The slothful acts would hang over me like a bright neon sign. For the rest of the night, I was upbeat, and I hope that it will carry through the next 20 months+.
Three more things of a spiritual nature before I close. Bro. Lance, a young man still not out of college, but with a wife and child and 2 years good service in Ireland, bore his testimony yesterday on prayer. He shared the Book of Mormon with someone in Ireland as a missionary just as the woman's friends, who are member drove past and honked their horn. Bro. Lance met with that family the next day, and they told him that that morning, they prayed that they could share the gospel with this woman that the missionaries met on the street. He says "When we pray specifically the Lord gives us specific answers." It hardly gets more specific than that!
Before church began, Elder Nethercott and I met with our ward mission leader (WML), Matt Anderson. To be blunt, Matt is not the best of WML's. He admits it. He tells every new missionary to not even have expectations for him, but I like, admire, and want to work hard for him, so he is a great WML for me. To stay on topic, we were discussing our teaching, and he made a comment that basically meant that what we need to teach is the Atonement, because that is what matters. We need to teach of Christ's ministry, because that is how we learn to come unto Him. We need to teach of his miracles, because they are testimonies of the Priesthood. He has a POWERFUL testimony, and it lifted me up and inspired me.
Lastly, we met with our Mission President last night at a fireside, or a seminar of sorts, where two recent converts bore their testimonies. They were able to feel the Spirit of Christ because people opened their mouths and shared their love for Christ with them. How selfish would it be to hold that for yourself, to not share your testimony, that knowledge you have of the changing power of the Atonement? I used to hold it, to hide it away. Now, I want to share it, but I am still unsure how. I pray for the day that I may share it with loving boldness with anyone who asks.
I love this Gospel, and the blessings it gives me and my family. I love my Heavenly Father, and my Savior Jesus Christ. I am so blessed to be living where and when I am, and can not even fathom how greatly the Lord's hand plays in my life.
With love to you all,
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave.
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
Monday, September 24, 2012
May Need Some New Shoes
This morning I allowed myself the pleasure of another long run. Elder Christensen and I left our companions far behind as we inadvertently found ourselves in the back woods of a Nature Preserve. We were about a mile into it before the No Trespassing signs popped up.We spent 20 minutes trying to find our way out of it, and eventually decided to just go back the way we came instead of trying to swim across the wetlands to where we could see the public trails. We made it back to the church and found our companions there, so we quick took the car (our companions chosen mode of transport) and grabbed a quick bite whereupon I discovered that my shoes are absolutely tattered around the toes. I have torn them up fairly well, and no longer will be running in them, which is sad cause they are AWESOME shoes.
Something that we have seen a lot of the last few weeks is wild cats, and this morning was no exception. It turns out that Elder Christensen was ejected from his high school CC team for carrying a .22 pistol while running and shooting cats and jack rabbits. The coach decided that was not good for the team's image and kicked him off. Elder said that he wished he had his .22 on him this morning, because we see so many of these wild cats all over. We also talked about the fun runs from this weekend. There were two, one on Saturday and the other on Sunday. The fastest times for that race are rarely under 19 minutes (only 1 or 2 under 19 each year between 2009 and 2011) and I heard that the winner this year was not even under 19. I could have won it! Oh well. I am looking at running marathons, and really enjoying the longer runs that Cowboy Christensen and I go on. We are running more often, generally every morning now, and also lifting fairly often, so I am getting in decent shape... now if I could only control how much I eat.
Speaking of eating, I had salmon on Saturday and enjoyed it. I have never really been one for salmon, so having a nice big slab of it and finding out it doesn't taste fishy was a huge bonus. It also was not flaky. So I have now found a fish that I like, which means that I can eat much more healthy food. I did also have a sausage (brat-like, but not as good), a hot dog, and a burger... so not quite healthy. We also had In-N-Out burgers that night, but we had the protein burger, which gives us lettuce instead of a bun. (I talked to some guys at In-N-Out that ran a CC invitational at Angels camp that day, and discovered that I am still probably faster than them.) I have been using a little more protein powder, but it makes it a lot better when I add it into oatmeal or my pancakes. I get protein and I get filled up with good food.
Yesterday was the Church Primary Program. Being a former primary worker, I had a great deal of enjoyment watching them sing and recite scripture and bear their testimony. I sang along silently to most of the songs. I love seeing the happy faces and hearing the giggles of the children and the parents alike. It is such a wonderful day at church. It was also a great way to ease in our new Bishopric. They basically got the day off, making it much less stressful for the first full week they have been a Bishopric. My new companion and I met with Bishop Means this past Friday. He seems very interested in the Ward Mission, and he is still fairly young and spry, so he may continue to be very involved and hands on.
It has been sad having Elder Leavitt gone, and I am also missing Elder Busselberg. Leavitt gave me his memory foam pad for me to use for the rest of my mission. He also gave me the blanket that his ex-girlfriend gave him with specific instructions regarding its future in the mission. He has already been asked by numerous mothers to marry their daughters now that he is back in the Trinity wards.
I am doing a decent job of staying on track to read the Book of Mormon twice more by the end of the year. I figure 5 chapters a day will do it. I started Mosiah this morning. I read through Enos and I still love his story. I have trouble praying for more than 5 minutes. To be able to pray all day is remarkable. He may have started in the afternoon and only prayed until evening, but that is still a few hours more than I could do it. And then he prays for his people. And then he prays for those trying to KILL his people, and LABORS DILIGENTLY to help bring them to God. His is an amazing conversion story, and he has an amazing testimony. I love Enos.
A few odds and ends, now. My new companion is from Poulson, Montana (not sure on the spelling). He is a farm boy. Nice. Fairly quiet. He ALWAYS has candy. He also has the Lord of the Rings soundtrack. I LOVE IT!!!
I saw a sticker in a window that reads "In case of fire, please save my..." and it had a list of pets and animals living within the house that the fire department so rescue. It made me laugh.
We broke the Zone record for baptisms in a month, and we still have a Saturday to go. Way to go LODI!!!
There was an escaped cow roaming the streets of Lodi Saturday night. We could not find it, despite Cowboys best efforts to do so.
Love and other affections to all!
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Avenue
Fair Oaks CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
The Dawn of a New Era!
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| Nephew Samson knows which way to go. |
On a more positive note, I was asked to take part in a 9/11 commemoration in Lodi this past Tuesday. I was told I would be giving a prayer, but it turned out I was supposed to address those assembled individuals in the Legion Hall about my memories of 9/11, the impact it had on me and my outlook for the future... I was unprepared, but a Jewish Rabbi told me that he was very touched by my words and the sincerety I spoke with. He took Elder Busselberg and me out to lunch at Dennys. I had a delicious burger. Oh, and I made it into the paper (http://www.lodinews.com/news/article_b9fffcfa-5a08-53d4-9c5f-df7fd2912988.html).
I need to say that I enjoy wearing my Tau Kappa Epsilon shorts when I go running or workout. So many people stare at my knee and ask "what does 'tech' mean?" and I have the opportunity to talk about the fraternity. It reminds me a great deal of things I left behind, but not with a sorrowful longing for the past, but with a brightness of hope for the future.
I have been loosely informed of some of the dangerous happenings in the world as of late. Many people enjoy telling us that the world is coming to an end, that these are the end times... and I am not saying they aren't...but I really hope to have a college degree when the world ends, simply so that I know that I didn't waste three years of my life...but really, I would not consider it a waste. I enjoyed those three years so much, and have many wonderous memories of St. Norbert College. I eagerly anticipate returning to its lovely, riverside campus and completing my education with Reed and Grant, the only two people I know of who will still be there since they graduate in 2015 (unless they work hard and leave early).
I have been working very hard lately... well, harder than before at least. I am still not to the brink, but it is stressful. A great thing about it is I am finding more information about the Gospel. There are two fabulous videos on Mormon Channel on YouTube. One is "Patterns of Light" by David A. Bednar, a wonderful series of three short videos that explain the Spirit of Christ and receiving direction from the Holy Ghost. The other is a talk by Jefferey R. Holland entitled "Staying Within the Lines". He speaks on the dangers and impacts that sexual sin have on people, but the message is more far reaching than that. He speaks with power on the battle between us, as children of God, and Satan, a real being whose mission is to destroy all hope you have for the future. Any allowance we give Satan to operate in our lives can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Also, I would like to extend an invitation to ALL of you who are LDS, as well as to all who are not: Get a copy of the Book of Mormon, ask a question you have always had about the Gospel, or the Church, or the nature of Christ, and then read at least one chapter every day and underline everything you find that answers your question. I promise you will learn so much. If you do this prayerfully, you will feel the Spirit testify to you. Also, just a fun numerical fact: if you were to read 2 chapters of the Book of Mormon, one in the morning and one at night, every day from the time you were 10 until you could no longer see those small words at age 90, you would have read the Book of Mormon 240 TIMES!!!... that's 3 times a year. And it is so easy. Just do it! It's simple, and it is so powerful.
I would like to end with a very fun story. A member in our ward, Bro. Lance, served his mission in Dublin. His departing interview with the Mission President went something like this...
Mission Pres: So, are you ready to go home?
Bro Lance: Not yet.
MP:Well I have one more challenge for you before you leave tomorrow.
BL: Okay
MP: When you arrive at your home airport, and before you see your family again, I want you to do something.
BL: Place a Book of Mormon, right?
MP: No. I want you to walk up to the most beautiful girl in the airport, and say "Hi, my name is Elder Lance. I am a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I have not kissed a girl in two years. Would you like to be the first?"
BL: (absolute stunned silence)
The point was not to kiss her, but to get over the hump of talking to girls. I just loved the story though.
Take care all!!
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
Monday, September 10, 2012
The difference...
I went to church yesterday on a big rush. I had finished reading the Book of Mormon again. I had received such wonderful revelation and inspiration from it, and was so excited. It was slightly dampened through out the day by the numerous 49ers fans I go to church with. They continually updated me on the game, and eventually my Ward Mission Leader got in touch with me to inform me of the Packers loss... and yet I was ok with it. It hurts a little bit, I still love the Pack, but I think I have changed.
I am really trying to allow the scriptures to change me, to allow my service to others to change my desires. I love it out here. California is not Wisconsin. My family is hours away at the closest (love you Tommy!) and across the whole country from me (you're a scumbag Brando!!). I want to see my little nephew walking (or swimming, whichever comes first). The milk here does not taste as good to me. The cheese is not as yummy. The days are getting much shorter (a world wide thing, not a Cali thing). People have returned to college. The steak is a little tougher out here. The weather is hotter. I never see bodies of water. There are fewer trees. There are PALM trees. I haven't run on a track in 4 months. I missed all the wonderful birthday wishes that my mom tells me I received on my facebook wall, and I look forward to seeing them when I get home in time for my 25th birthday. I live with 3 other guys, and my bunk bed squeaks with most every adjustment. I gained 8 pounds this week. It has not rained more than a slight drizzle for three minutes. I can't keep updated on everything going on in the NFL. And yet I love it here so much. It is not home, and yet I am at home here.
This has been a wonderful week, and what made it very great for me is that it was very basic, very unmemorable, and yet it meant so much to me to work with and get to know and meet the people I did this week.
My love goes out to you all.
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
I am really trying to allow the scriptures to change me, to allow my service to others to change my desires. I love it out here. California is not Wisconsin. My family is hours away at the closest (love you Tommy!) and across the whole country from me (you're a scumbag Brando!!). I want to see my little nephew walking (or swimming, whichever comes first). The milk here does not taste as good to me. The cheese is not as yummy. The days are getting much shorter (a world wide thing, not a Cali thing). People have returned to college. The steak is a little tougher out here. The weather is hotter. I never see bodies of water. There are fewer trees. There are PALM trees. I haven't run on a track in 4 months. I missed all the wonderful birthday wishes that my mom tells me I received on my facebook wall, and I look forward to seeing them when I get home in time for my 25th birthday. I live with 3 other guys, and my bunk bed squeaks with most every adjustment. I gained 8 pounds this week. It has not rained more than a slight drizzle for three minutes. I can't keep updated on everything going on in the NFL. And yet I love it here so much. It is not home, and yet I am at home here.
This has been a wonderful week, and what made it very great for me is that it was very basic, very unmemorable, and yet it meant so much to me to work with and get to know and meet the people I did this week.
My love goes out to you all.
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Game Time!!!
I was in a dim room. The sun was not yet up, and a sneeze began to tickle my nose. I readied, but it began to fade, and there was no bright light to stare into to spur my sneeze. Depressed, I dropped my gaze and they met my florescent Adidas, whereupon, I SNEEZED!!! It was great.Lodi CA has been treating me well. I have been running a little, lifting a bit, and even got play football today. There were three guys from Wisconsin in attendance, and we played very well, though it was not classic, grind it out, Wisconsin football. I have dropped to about 178 pounds out here, 8 pounds less than when I left. I am feeling pretty good, except for my shoulder. The pain does remain some days, and has continued to keep me up some nights, though it is not nearly as stinging as the first time that I had it. I do not know the cause, but it seems fairly random.
Due to the delay in snail mail reaching me, I am looking forward to receiving birthday cards from you all... belated cards are accepted.
I have met two individuals out here with connections back home. First is Brother Harddy who served with Robert Graham in Washington back in the early 2000's. Second is Bro. Ellsworth who served in Wisconsin back in the early 80's and he knows my Stake President, Pres. Kindt, and his family. It is wonderful to find these connections in the world.
I have been pouring through the Book of Mormon. I am on pace to finish it before the week is up, but it will take some dedication, so forgive me if I have not written you back recently. I am spending 5 dollars a week on stamps. If you write me a letter, I request, but do not require, a stamp. If a stamp is included, I will write you back sooner as I am all but out of stamps now.
Regarding reading, I read about Samuel the Lamanite this past week. Just at a time when I was called to repentence (lovingly and kindly) by my apartment mates, I was reading this. What Samuel tells the people (among many other things) is that the people rejected the true prophets of God because they called them to change their ways, but upheld false prophets who flattered them and spoke to the pride of their hearts. I also read that God chastens us because he loves us. Between these scriptures, I knew that I must, in order to uphold my calling as a follower of Jesus Christ, follow the commandments that I have been given. It would be wrong of me to invite others to draw closer to Christ while not doing everything I can to do the same.
I truly believe that the Book of Mormon is an inspired book of scripture and testimony of Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the gospel. Immediately, Nephi testifies of the blessings of following the gospel. In Nephi 3:7, he stands up for what is right by saying that he will go and do whatever the Lord commands because he knows that the Lord will not command him to a task he can not accomplish, as long as he trusts in the Lord. In Mosiah 3:19, we are instructed that in order to really trust in the Lord, we must humble ourselves and become as children, humble and submissive to our Heavenly Father. We have an example of a man who does trust in the Lord fully: Captain Moroni in Alma. In Alma 48:17, we are told that if every man exemplified the example Moroni leads, in trusting the strength of the Lord above all else, the very powers of hell would be shaken that none would ever fall. I bear testimony that as we follow the path set before us, we are given strength, and added guidance, and the companionship of the Spirit of the Lord. I know that I have only improved my life with each page of the Book of Mormon that I have read. It has been the greatest blessing to me so far in my life, and I am seeking to share it with all those who are willing.
I feel sad whenever I grow close to those that I am teaching, and see them struggle with temptations. I can do little more than invite and direct them, and to see the pain in their eyes at their struggles brings me pain. I have never been one to be overly empathetic, but my heart is growing to encompass so many people as I teach them, and see them grow in the light of Christ. I love these people, and seek for their happiness.
I am growing ever more comfortable in California, and will miss those I grow to love here as well as those I miss at home. I miss so many already, and look forward to meeting many more that I may miss. God Bless, and take care!
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
Monday, August 27, 2012
I'm Michael Jordan
It was a wonderful week. My companion and I spent the rest of last Monday in our apartment. I spent four hours writing letters (and am still behind!). Tuesday, we had Zone Conference. It was wonderful! Our Mission President, President Lewis, was so great. He spoke on a few different subjects, but it was always so easy to relate everything to me. It felt so personal, so inspirational. I was surrounded by 100 missionaries, all eager to learn. There were four missionaries there from Wisconsin as well: Elder Crager (Lake Geneva), Busselberg (Hartland), myself (The Great Land of She-Bo-Bo), and Sister Oliphant (Madison). We were all very excited to talk all about home with each other. I do miss home (deep sigh).
Zone Conference focused on Becoming Converted, and we used Elder Dallin H Oaks October 2000 General Conference address. I loved it. We each wrote a talk, and I was eager to prepare it. I love the topic of conversion, because it is so personal, and so deep. It is between ourselves and God.
After Zone Conference, I once again went on exchanges to Lodi 3rd. I love it there. It seems as though all the members are huge BYU football fans. The bad thing is that I got a flat on another missionary's bicycle which caused me to wipe out in front of a speeding Waste Management truck. (No worries, I jumped clear and the bike skidded out of the trucks path.) I lived to see another day!
Which was good, because on Thursday, I had my first baptism as a missionary. Elder Busselberg baptized a 10 year old who recently moved into our area and lives right next door. Then, on Saturday, I baptized 3 members of a family who also recently moved into the area. It was beautiful to be a part of this. I have grown to love these people over the last 6 weeks, and will be saddened when I move away from Lodi.
Friday night, the power went out in much of Lodi. I was having fitful dreams anyway, but the screams from next door when the lights went black didn't help at all. I was groggy when I got up, and spent all morning helping our Ward Mission Leader move, then went on to yet another move. It was an exhausting day, and our whole apartement went to bed early that night.
I walked into church the next day and prepared for the morning meetings to find out that the primary class was celebrating President Monson's birthday. I approached the teachers and informed them that it was my birthday as well. They gave me a slice of cake that would have tilted over the leaning Tower of Piza... I could not even finish it!
One last thing: I have a story. At an undisclosed location (not my area), a companion and I decided to do our laundry at another missionary's apartment, encouraged to do so by our Zone Leaders. They were driving us over when they informed us that they would not be able to pick us up because they would be heading out of town after they did their laundry (at yet another missionary apartment). We thought this would be fine because one of the sets of Elders who lived there have a car. Well, they left early, and we were left without a ride. What could very well be a longer story (hard to believe, right?) shall be abbreviated; we ended up walking home without our laundry in a sloppy appearance that included Pumas and Vans for shoes, only one of us with a name tag, and also only one brought a belt. We were hoping (we didn't think praying would be appropriate) that no one would spot us for what we were, but less than five minutes in, 2 people had already called us out as missionaries. It was long walk home...
Well, that is about it for now (I think). I'm just getting into the War Chapters in the Book of Mormon (SO EXCITED!!). Thanks to everyone who wrote, and my letters will slowly make their way back to you.
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
Zone Conference focused on Becoming Converted, and we used Elder Dallin H Oaks October 2000 General Conference address. I loved it. We each wrote a talk, and I was eager to prepare it. I love the topic of conversion, because it is so personal, and so deep. It is between ourselves and God.
After Zone Conference, I once again went on exchanges to Lodi 3rd. I love it there. It seems as though all the members are huge BYU football fans. The bad thing is that I got a flat on another missionary's bicycle which caused me to wipe out in front of a speeding Waste Management truck. (No worries, I jumped clear and the bike skidded out of the trucks path.) I lived to see another day!
Which was good, because on Thursday, I had my first baptism as a missionary. Elder Busselberg baptized a 10 year old who recently moved into our area and lives right next door. Then, on Saturday, I baptized 3 members of a family who also recently moved into the area. It was beautiful to be a part of this. I have grown to love these people over the last 6 weeks, and will be saddened when I move away from Lodi.
Friday night, the power went out in much of Lodi. I was having fitful dreams anyway, but the screams from next door when the lights went black didn't help at all. I was groggy when I got up, and spent all morning helping our Ward Mission Leader move, then went on to yet another move. It was an exhausting day, and our whole apartement went to bed early that night.
I walked into church the next day and prepared for the morning meetings to find out that the primary class was celebrating President Monson's birthday. I approached the teachers and informed them that it was my birthday as well. They gave me a slice of cake that would have tilted over the leaning Tower of Piza... I could not even finish it!
One last thing: I have a story. At an undisclosed location (not my area), a companion and I decided to do our laundry at another missionary's apartment, encouraged to do so by our Zone Leaders. They were driving us over when they informed us that they would not be able to pick us up because they would be heading out of town after they did their laundry (at yet another missionary apartment). We thought this would be fine because one of the sets of Elders who lived there have a car. Well, they left early, and we were left without a ride. What could very well be a longer story (hard to believe, right?) shall be abbreviated; we ended up walking home without our laundry in a sloppy appearance that included Pumas and Vans for shoes, only one of us with a name tag, and also only one brought a belt. We were hoping (we didn't think praying would be appropriate) that no one would spot us for what we were, but less than five minutes in, 2 people had already called us out as missionaries. It was long walk home...
Well, that is about it for now (I think). I'm just getting into the War Chapters in the Book of Mormon (SO EXCITED!!). Thanks to everyone who wrote, and my letters will slowly make their way back to you.
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
I don't love cats (Mom's title, not Gavin's, because Gavin's was lame and had nothing to do with the post.)
I will tell you of a cat. He is a nice cat, but he was feeling a little down. He had begun to not hold down any of his food, and would sleep more than usual. While the missionaries were at his home, his brother sneaked over, due to everyone's attention being on our sickly main character, and widdled all over our friendly neighborhood missionary's wonderful Northface back pack. Yes, it smells of severe cat pee now. To end a sad story with an even sadder finish, our poor cat friend passed away Friday night. The missionaries were called over and the human servants to the cat asked them if they would pray.
So I think that means that I led a eulogy for a cat. It was a sad time, though (not simply because of my back pack). I will be getting my back pack cleaned with vinegar.
Also over by that family (who lost their cat to an early demise) Busselberg and I saw an individual on a long board. He was very relaxedly going down the street, and I thought to myself "I wish I could just have no cares, go about with an easy life, not worrying about-" when my thoughts were cut short by a slight crack. I looked over to see this individual go flying as his board hit a crack in the sidewalk, and he lays out and road rashed his side. I then thought "I gotcha, God. I will focus on the work."
Speaking of the work, SO GOOD!!!! There will be more on that next week, because I do not want to give anything away.
There was a welcome home potluck for two missionaries from our ward this week. One served in Jackson, MI, and the other in Tokyo. The one from Jackson tracted (where missionaries simply walk around and talk to everyone and knock on doors) into Brett Favre... and did not have any idea who he was. He also met Karl Malone. Pretty cool. The food there was great, too.
I am making fairly good progress on the Book of Mormon. I know that if I read 10 chapters a day, I will read the entire Book in a month. That is only about 20 pages a day, which is not at all hard when it is a novel, but scripture is different. It is a bit harder to keep my eyes open, but I am also underlining and taking notes, and that stretched the time out a little bit at well. I hope to read the Book of Mormon all the way through at least twice a year, and maybe even more often as a missionary.
Tomorrow, we have Zone Conference. For those who do not know, the church is pretty well organized. A congregation, an area where the members meet every week for Sunday service, is called Ward or a Branch, depending on the size (ward is larger). Many wards (and/or branches) make up a Stake. There are over 2700 stakes in the world. The missionary work is split up throughout the world in 341 missions, with over 50000 missionaries. Each mission is separated into Zones, and then Districts, and then area. I serve in the Lodi 1st area of the Lodi 1st, English District in the Lodi Zone. There are 13 Zones in my mission. So, getting back to the point, we are meeting with 4 Zones tomorrow. It will be agrand ol' time, but it means that the rest of tonight, I will be setting up our church building to house 150 missionaries and leaders. So Fun!!!
A big shout out to Brian Curran and Libby Wissing, as well as my co-workers form Associated Bank. I got letters from them this week. Also got a package from the Palenskes. What I now know is that it takes at least 10 days for letters to get from you, the sender, to me. Both BC and Libby's letters were written in very early August/late July. So please forgive me if I am slow to respond. I just may not have gotten it yet.
I love my family, my friends, this gospel, this work. I love my Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost.
Take care, and God bless.
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
So I think that means that I led a eulogy for a cat. It was a sad time, though (not simply because of my back pack). I will be getting my back pack cleaned with vinegar.
Also over by that family (who lost their cat to an early demise) Busselberg and I saw an individual on a long board. He was very relaxedly going down the street, and I thought to myself "I wish I could just have no cares, go about with an easy life, not worrying about-" when my thoughts were cut short by a slight crack. I looked over to see this individual go flying as his board hit a crack in the sidewalk, and he lays out and road rashed his side. I then thought "I gotcha, God. I will focus on the work."
Speaking of the work, SO GOOD!!!! There will be more on that next week, because I do not want to give anything away.
There was a welcome home potluck for two missionaries from our ward this week. One served in Jackson, MI, and the other in Tokyo. The one from Jackson tracted (where missionaries simply walk around and talk to everyone and knock on doors) into Brett Favre... and did not have any idea who he was. He also met Karl Malone. Pretty cool. The food there was great, too.
I am making fairly good progress on the Book of Mormon. I know that if I read 10 chapters a day, I will read the entire Book in a month. That is only about 20 pages a day, which is not at all hard when it is a novel, but scripture is different. It is a bit harder to keep my eyes open, but I am also underlining and taking notes, and that stretched the time out a little bit at well. I hope to read the Book of Mormon all the way through at least twice a year, and maybe even more often as a missionary.
Tomorrow, we have Zone Conference. For those who do not know, the church is pretty well organized. A congregation, an area where the members meet every week for Sunday service, is called Ward or a Branch, depending on the size (ward is larger). Many wards (and/or branches) make up a Stake. There are over 2700 stakes in the world. The missionary work is split up throughout the world in 341 missions, with over 50000 missionaries. Each mission is separated into Zones, and then Districts, and then area. I serve in the Lodi 1st area of the Lodi 1st, English District in the Lodi Zone. There are 13 Zones in my mission. So, getting back to the point, we are meeting with 4 Zones tomorrow. It will be agrand ol' time, but it means that the rest of tonight, I will be setting up our church building to house 150 missionaries and leaders. So Fun!!!
A big shout out to Brian Curran and Libby Wissing, as well as my co-workers form Associated Bank. I got letters from them this week. Also got a package from the Palenskes. What I now know is that it takes at least 10 days for letters to get from you, the sender, to me. Both BC and Libby's letters were written in very early August/late July. So please forgive me if I am slow to respond. I just may not have gotten it yet.I love my family, my friends, this gospel, this work. I love my Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Ghost.
Take care, and God bless.
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
I'm gettin' too old for this schtuff!
To start my post this week, Elder Holmes is, by now, enjoying the wonderful feeling of walking around in shorts and a t-shirt, swimming, and watching movies. He has returned home having served faithfully from August 4th, 2010, until he left the Sacramento Mission on August 9th, 2012. He has been released, and he will be missed. Taking his place in our apartment is Elder "Cowboy" Christensen from Moroni, UT. He is the same size as me (except for the legs, where he is skinny and I am broad), wears a cowboy hat to every service project he does, and has a half dozen lassos. He has three pairs of boots, and the same number of Wranglers. He has a thick drawl, as well. It is so much fun.
Getting to the goings on in my mission, I was in the YSA (Young Single Adults) class this past Sunday. We had been teaching it since I arrived, but this day, the teacher asked one of the YSAs to teach it. So the lesson was on charity, and it was great. We were learning, participating, having fun... great time! A little more than half way through the lesson, the instructor asked us how being charitable and helping others makes us feel, so I threw both my thumbs in the air and said "Like Siskel and Ebert!!!" You could have heard a pin drop in there, so I continued somewhat tentatively "Two thumbs way up?" Again, no one responded positively, although one kid did cock his head to the side at me. I said, in a mockingly angry tone, "You guys are way too young!" A few of the returned missionaries tried to tell me that they were older than me, but I refuted those claims pretty easily when I showed them my Drivers License. It is now less than a fortnight to my 23rd birthday (not that I am obviously excited for it). Thing is, everyone thinks I'm 19 cause I'm a greenie. If it weren't for the fact that I was on a mission, they would all think that I was 15 judging by my maturity. It was a moment that made me feel like a thirty year old (not that there is anything wrong with being thirty!).
Well, this week has been... hot. The temperature was over 100 every day this week, and even got as high as 108 according to one person we taught and did service for. We did sooooooo much service this week (anything to get out of our white shirts and ties!). We did some hedging, trimmed some bushes, mowed and edged, painted, pruned, carried furniture and lifted equipment up and down stairs, emptied a storage unit, rearranged an apartment, hung up a mirror, clocks, and bulletin boards, did some electrical work, and finished the week off doing 2 Eagle Scout Projects. Cowboy lassoed my companion at one of them while he was hiding behind a pillar. We dug up a bunch of bushes that people would allegedly violate laws behind (illicit substances, illicit acts, building nuclear bombs, peddling pokemon cards... heinous crimes!!!), and replaced them with smaller and much more prickly bushes. I have planted these bushes back home, and I HATE them. I have cuts and tears all over my hands. It was still a ton of fun though.
We have also been teaching a lot. Our work was slowed because Buss didn't have a bike this week, but we were still successful in our efforts to get baptismal dates for 5 of our investigators. We are so excited. There had been little progress in our area for quite some time, and we have seen true miracles in our lives recently. The families and individuals that we are getting to know, growing to love, are so wonderful and eager to learn and change for the better.
A strange occurrence that took place this past week was that Busselberg and I agreed to not buy a car unless it was American or German in make. I do not know why exactly this happened, but we determined that if we did this, and convinced 5 friends each who would then convince their friends, etc., that we could save the American car industry (or supercharge the German car industry). We were talking with a woman this week, and she was adamantly upset at how many of the things in her garage were from China. She was shaking with anger about it. I think that inspired us a little.
I have tried to learn a few more songs on piano. I thought I had one down, when I moved my fingers up to the black keys, and it just sounded so much better, but the problem is I'm not good enough to play black keys consistently, so I just made it a different song, kinda.
Also, I have taken up roping. Not anything big, yet. Just a small, foot long wood and plastic model bull. I'm pretty decent at it. In addition, there are a few country songs I like now (Dang you, Christensen!!!). We have been running almost every night, and a route that took Elder Leavitt and me 17:03 to run last Tuesday night took Christensen and me 13:53 to run (without a kick, and trying not to speed up at all as we got to the end). I do not know the exact distance it is, but it seems to be about 2 miles. I take this to be good news, because I haven't been in racing shape for a while, so it is good to know that I can still do a 13:23 (with a kick at the end) without feeling too drained at all. What I really want to do is get on the track and time my two mile, because I need some set distance. Our Zone might also begin doing zone sports again, where 20 missionaries come together and we play football or frisbee or basketball or soccer. I am really looking forward to it! Additionally, we now have a bench press bench in our apartment, so we went to town on it Saturday morning after the Service Project (the bushes). I did 5 reps of 185 on the bench, then 16 of 185, then 3 of 235, then 12 of 185, then I did skull crushers, curls, triceps extensions, squats, and pushups, then did 8 more reps of 185. I felt so good!!! D&C 89, baby!
Well, to conclude, I recommend that EVERYONE read the Book of Mormon. The more I read it, the more I learn. I am more able to read for longer stretches of time than I was before. I love the teachings of King Benjamin, the stories told by Mormon, the writings of Nephi and his brother Jacob, the testimonies of these great individuals who humbled themselves before God that they would be able to help others come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored Gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and his atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end (all you returned missionaries better have been able to stop reading and still known what I had written!!!). It is so wonderful to see happiness grow inside others as they learn the things that I have learned. It is also so humbling to see them grow beyond what I can teach them.
My personal testimony continues to grow daily. I love the scriptures and the teachings of our modern prophets. I love the guidance I can obtain through my patriarchal blessing (I never should have waited to get it. It is SO powerful!). I love that through prayer I can have secrets revealed to me and my mind can be opened to the truths that I would not otherwise be able to know. My heart is filled for the people of California. I love it out here.
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks, CA, 95628
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
The hot, the gluttonous, and the painful
To start out, this is in apology to Allison Theune. I forgot to add my birthday wishes to you in my response to the letter you sent me, so here is to hoping that you had a marvelous and wonderful 22nd b-day. (You too, Spencer)
This past week has been quite a time for our mission. I have been on exchanges (where senior missionaries trade places for a day so that they can observe one's conduct) multiple times in the last 8 days. Due to this, I have gotten to see a more diverse investigator pool in addition to working with missionaries that I hardly ever get to see. My appreciation is growing for every ward that I am visiting as a missionary. The members are kind and loving.
Also, my host for dinner last Wednesday night had a small farm. Elder Stradling, my companion for the day, and I braved the 106 degree weather to tour the small area. The Richardsons have a number or Pyngora sheep, a combination of Angora and Pygmy sheep, as well as 20 chickens of three various breeds. They also have some goats. We had a great time and I now, once I get home of course, would like to get chickens. I would eat about 12 eggs for breakfast each day in college and it may be cheaper to just raise my own.
Adding to the gluttony, I put down 15 tacos last night at a member's house. He was excited to have a large portion of the Zone eating at his house, and I out ate all the others. I was allowed to take home a bag of candy for my efforts, adding to the size of my waistline. We also eat at either Chili's or King China Buffet for lunch on Thursdays, and I usually put away 4 bowls of soup and 2 salads at Chili's. I am not gaining much weight, thank goodness, but if I am ever out of a biking area I am going to have to change my ways or change my wardrobe.
Also, last week, mere hours after finishing my long run, Elder Holmes knee slammed into my right thigh as we were playing basketball. I received a deep thigh bruise and could barely walk for the next 4 days, so I spent some time in a car, and then hobbled for a while. To add to my misery this week, my broken collar bone flared up with pain last night. I could not get to sleep before 4 last night.
But, far outweighing the negative pains I have experienced, we have been teaching and they have been learning. One family is doing especially well. They are enjoying church a great deal and everyone wants to get baptized. It is so exciting to be a part of this family's journey. I am so gald that they are willing to and wanting to and eager to take these steps.
As football season begins, I am feeling out of the loop, a little lost, and somewaht sad. But over the last 2 weeks I have been thinking of football less and less and dwelling more and more on what I studied that morning in the Book of Mormon, or thinking about how I can help teach an investigator, or what I can do to be a better companion and apartment mate. I am beginning to change my self. I also like myself better now.
Hugs and high fives to all of you.
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks, CA, 95628
This past week has been quite a time for our mission. I have been on exchanges (where senior missionaries trade places for a day so that they can observe one's conduct) multiple times in the last 8 days. Due to this, I have gotten to see a more diverse investigator pool in addition to working with missionaries that I hardly ever get to see. My appreciation is growing for every ward that I am visiting as a missionary. The members are kind and loving.
Also, my host for dinner last Wednesday night had a small farm. Elder Stradling, my companion for the day, and I braved the 106 degree weather to tour the small area. The Richardsons have a number or Pyngora sheep, a combination of Angora and Pygmy sheep, as well as 20 chickens of three various breeds. They also have some goats. We had a great time and I now, once I get home of course, would like to get chickens. I would eat about 12 eggs for breakfast each day in college and it may be cheaper to just raise my own.
Adding to the gluttony, I put down 15 tacos last night at a member's house. He was excited to have a large portion of the Zone eating at his house, and I out ate all the others. I was allowed to take home a bag of candy for my efforts, adding to the size of my waistline. We also eat at either Chili's or King China Buffet for lunch on Thursdays, and I usually put away 4 bowls of soup and 2 salads at Chili's. I am not gaining much weight, thank goodness, but if I am ever out of a biking area I am going to have to change my ways or change my wardrobe.
Also, last week, mere hours after finishing my long run, Elder Holmes knee slammed into my right thigh as we were playing basketball. I received a deep thigh bruise and could barely walk for the next 4 days, so I spent some time in a car, and then hobbled for a while. To add to my misery this week, my broken collar bone flared up with pain last night. I could not get to sleep before 4 last night.
But, far outweighing the negative pains I have experienced, we have been teaching and they have been learning. One family is doing especially well. They are enjoying church a great deal and everyone wants to get baptized. It is so exciting to be a part of this family's journey. I am so gald that they are willing to and wanting to and eager to take these steps.
As football season begins, I am feeling out of the loop, a little lost, and somewaht sad. But over the last 2 weeks I have been thinking of football less and less and dwelling more and more on what I studied that morning in the Book of Mormon, or thinking about how I can help teach an investigator, or what I can do to be a better companion and apartment mate. I am beginning to change my self. I also like myself better now.
Hugs and high fives to all of you.
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks, CA, 95628
Monday, July 30, 2012
That's the sound of the men workin' on the chain gang!
As much as I enjoy being new to the mission, not having the
responsibilities expected of those District Leaders and Zone Leaders, or the
office Elders/Sisters, or the Assistants to the President, etc., it does kinda
stink to go from college senior to missionary greenie... oddly enough, that has
not really happened to any real degree. The Elders I live with are awesome. They
are all so close to being done with their two years, and they change everyday.
Sometimes they are super excited about going home, then afraid, talk about
college, then talk about how they are going to miss tracting, mention jobs they
have back home, then wish they could just stay out in the field for the rest of
their lives. Almost every one, though, talks about the increase in fat that they
have very lovingly developed over the last 18 to 23 months, and the desire they
have to separate themselves from it.
So, I set them working. We yo-yo'd between attempts at dieting, but now
they are starting to crack down a little more. We run 3 to 4 times a week, and are upping that to 5 times for this week. We are eating eggs like they are going out
of style (which they might very well be. The price of 5 dozen eggs was 5.99 two
weeks ago, and 7.98 today). We are turning down seconds (or maybe turning down
thirds and fourths and fifths in my case) and desserts. Collectively, we lost 20
pounds in a week. That is an average of 5 pounds a person. BOOM!!! Elder Leavitt
is the most serious about it, though. He came out in great shape and at 175.
Now, he is a bit flabby and was over 190 two weeks ago. I'm back under 180
consistently. My companion... he just does whatever. Elder Holmes goes home in
10 days, so he did a special work out with me this morning.
I have not been on a nice long run in over two months. I could feel myself
getting antsy, my legs ached a little bit, and I was foggy minded and
distracted. I went around the apartment last night and asked the other Elders if
they wanted to go biking this morning. Elder Holmes agreed, and after a light
amount of rice and a small taco, I laced up, and walked outside. Elder Holmes
biked alongside me as I ran, and ran. It was one of the better runs I have been
on. I felt good, I felt strong. I didn't feel 180 pounds. I felt like I was a
frosh again; 165 pounds and fast. We left the apartment just after 7, and got
back just before 9. We ran around a nature trail at Lodi Lake, and I finally saw
an Eastern Gray Squirrel, the first one I have seen in 2 months, as well as a
doe, a young 3 point buck, and a strapping 6 point buck who leapt across the
moss covered creek. I love deer. They are so graceful, so majestic.
Well, anyway, total running time; 1:39:39.56. Total distance, 13 miles
(according to my ruler measurements), 12.6 miles (according to map directions
with guesstimations for the park I ran around) or 14.2 miles (according to my
mile pace at mile 12ish spaced out for the whole run). So lets just say a half
marathon in 100 minutes. And I was still feeling pretty good! The balls of my
feet hurt a bit, my knees ached a little bit, and there was a slight tightness
in my neck, but my legs were good, my calves felt fine, my hammies were strong,
and I was talking with Elder Holmes for much of the time.
Speaking of Elder Holmes, I will miss him. He has been such fun over these
last 5 weeks. He is a good guy, fun, and I will miss his presence in our
apartment. He goes back to Utah next week, and I may not see him again on this
earthly realm. Great luck to you Elder! Hurrah for Israel!!!*
The Work in the mission field has been going great as well. We are teaching
a number of investigators, people very interested in learning, growing in the
Gospel, increasing their faith and testimony, and feeling the Spirit work within
them. It is AWESOME to share the love that I feel from Christ with these
wonderful people. I can feel my love for them growing. I love the people of
California, and waved and said hi to everyone that I saw this morning.
I read the Book of Mormon yesterday (meaning the book Mormon wrote within
the Book of Mormon, a total of 9 chapters), and I love it. It is heart wrenching
to read of the loss of faith these people had, and the sorrows and fall that
they have. I have been so richly blessed, and if I every become swallowed up in
the pride of my own heart, will any one of you please follow the example of
Katherine Heigel's friend in 27 Dresses, and just step up and slap me... not too
hard, though, if you please.
Love to all, take care, please write!
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks, CA, 95628
*Watch 'The Other Side of Heaven'. I cry every time.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
The Best Seven Days
What a week. In the last seven days, I have had tons of fun, lost weight, served in 3 areas, and seen miracles. I have grown and changed so much in the last week, and received more letters from home than the previous 40 days. I was having a trying time, and this week I have been lifted up with joy and love.
My work week began last Monday evening. We progressed through our list of appointments and had minimal success. It did little to raise my spirits, which had begun to sink a little as of late. The following day, we lost a good deal of time because we stopped over at the hospital so that my companion could get his shoulder checked out. It had popped out of place before and it was giving him pain, and a 2 hour doctors appointment later we were told he would be taking physical therapy twice a week for 4 weeks. Another block of time was taken away from us. We checked in with a few more investigators, but due to work induced fatigue and overly-protective-and-other-religion-fearing spouses, we were unable to teach anyone in our afternoon schedule. We went to dinner with a bit of a heavy heart, but left with a full stomach (which does wonders for one's optimism, though tends to have a negative effect on enthusiasm to work). We hopped on our bikes and headed home to call anyone we could, and were eventually able to acquire a member to attend a lesson with us.
We arrived at our lesson to meet two new individuals in addition to the two we were planning on teaching. We began by teaching the less active member, but as the lesson drew on, the others began to migrate into the living room, and we ended by teaching all four of them. One was very touched by the spirit and, at the end of the lesson, and with sadness and reverence evidence in his manner and speech, told us about his recent family plights, and asked us to pray with him. We did so, and he quickly set a time for us to come back. I spent the next day in another area (Galt, 15 or so miles north), and met so many friendly and wonderful people. I was encouraged by the work we did, and returned to Lodi with an uplifted heart.
We taught the family again, and by the end of the lesson, we challenged the two non-members to baptism, and they eagerly accepted. It was wonderful to see the joy in their eyes, to see the evidence of the Spirit working with them. I was overjoyed at the anticipation on their faces as they set another appointment for the very next day.
The next day, I was again on exchanges, this time with my Zone Leader. Though we had gotten no opportunities to teach all morning (we did weekly planning until lunch, then we to therapy for my companion), Elder Leavitt and I quickly transitioned into work mode. We stopped by and visited four investigators, and did a quick service project for one, and taught a lesson, then again provided a service for the last investigator. They were all so happy. We headed out to dinner at a member's house, and had a quick birthday celebration with the son before the party started, then headed back into town to teach the Restoration to a non-member family. The woman had read a pamphlet on the restoration, and had numerous questions. We were able to teach what she needed to hear, spoke to her worries, and enlightened her mind to the teachings of Christ. She was so filled with joy, and when Elder Leavitt asked if she wanted a ride to church on Sunday, she said they would need five seats, because she was bringing her two kids, her dad, and her fiance. It was a wonderful day.
On Saturday, Elder Busselberg and I were back together, and we were able to see one of our investigators, who had been out of town for a week. We watched Prophet of the Restoration with him, and invited him to church the next day. I love that movie. It is so stirring, so inspiring. I cry every time I watch the movie. Elder Busselberg and I also had a sit down to discuss the direction of the companionship, and we progressed quite a bit in our understanding of each other. It was a good day. On Sunday, 7 non members showed up to our ward (as well as 5 for our Zone Leaders). It was the first time that an investigator had been to church in the last month and a half. It was such a blessing for us, and gave us a boost to work harder this week to keep up that success.
I love this church. I love teaching the Gospel to those that I meet. I love the class at church that we teach to the Young Single Adults group. So many of them are going through mission prep, or college. It is wonderful to see them working hard in a good cause. I have seen such a change in me since I have been set apart as a missionary, and I am happier and healthier in so many ways. I love this time that I have to give back to the Lord. I thank those that have extended their help, their assistance, their time, their letters, their emails, and any other way that they encourage this great, noble, marvelous work. I love you!!!
Elder Strawn
8267 Deseret Avenue
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
Monday, July 16, 2012
The Younger Older Elder
It is a day that many men have looked forward to since they were old enough
to think. You are now 19, and that large, white envelope from Utah arrives in
the mail. Your family gathers around you, you call everyone you know, and 14
cell phones are on speaker as you announce that you are going to...
That isn't my story. Or my brother's. He didn't prepare from a mission
until after his sophmore year of college. He went to Samara, Russia at nearly
21. I waited until after my Junior year to prepare for a mission. I am nearly 23
years old - old enough to have served two missions. I am one of the older guys
out here. I am older than many of the sister missionaries (they serve at 21).
When I opened my call, I had one sibling on the line, and three family members
around. I had not wanted to serve when I was younger... But I am so glad I decided
to serve.
The last week has been pretty fun. We have been playing basketball on our
P-Day, as well as a form of 'skinny football', a version where no one wears
pads, no one hits... okay, it's basically where I run and the quarterback throws
me the ball. It's a ton of fun though. Elder Leavitt has a good arm, and I am
greatly enjoying running routes.
Speaking of football, I found out that Austin Collie is in my mission
boundries. For those of you who do not know, Austin Collie is a wide receiver
for the Indianapolis Colts. He had a fabulous career at BYU, left a year early,
and became a go-to guy for Peyton Manning. He had 15 TDs and 1300 yards in his
first 25 or so games. He's good. His family sounds awesome. His dad runs a
receiving camp every year. Eagles Coach Andy Reid said something along the lines
of him being the best coach not on a payroll. I can't remember the details. I
read the articles about his family nearly 6 months ago, but his little brother
just got recruited by BYU, as well. I really want to meet them.
Now, to music. I love music. There is a acapella group named Noteworthy. Oh
my goodness, I highly suggest anyone who likes acapella sound look into this
group. They sound great. Also, we have been listening to a lot of Elder
Archeletta. I like him as well. I have been trying to sing solely hymns while
biking, but it is a little hard.
This area is wonderful. We have a handful of people we are teaching. They
are all challenging in their own ways, but I am growing to love them. I enjoy
teaching so much. It is something that is dear to me, and grows more dear every
time I study. I love this work.
Elder Gavin Strawn
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks CA 95628
Monday, July 9, 2012
What you mean they don't eat no meat?!?!?!... that's okay, I make lamb.
I shall tell a tale. This tale is not for the faint of heart. It is a story
of struggle, of mauled flesh and red stained foliage. It is a story... of the
first time I ate at In-N-Out burger. I was with Elder Lawrence, a spindly man of
19 and a half years with a narrow face an pointed nose. He is a worker of steel,
and an accomplished wrestler. He was my temporary companion and my Leader, Elder
Busselberg, traveled to the land of Sacramento to be taught by the sages of the
mission. Lawrence and I walked mile after mile, trudging our way through heat
and noise across the (not so) vast expanse of Lodi. for hours we toiled along
winding roads, talking to all who we passed. We found ourselves at the corner of
Lower Sacramento and Kettleman, and looked up to see an In-N-Out restaurant.
Looking at our watches, we found that the time had eclipsed midday, so we
eagerly walked into the vaulted chamber, and stepped up the the serving girl,
and placed an order of 3 by 3 burgers with cheese, pickles, onions, and Animal
styles on the side. We slathered our food with ketchup, sinking our teeth into
the warm meat and devouring the fries with fork in hand. Afterward, Lawrence and
I turned to one another, and I said "Johnsonville Brats are better." Now don't get me wrong, it was good. But I desire a feast of flesh still steaming from the Palenske's grill.
Lodi is still doing well. The temps are going over a hundred, so I keep finding my tongue lolling out and covering my tie. My companion has even stopped wearing his hair piece, it's so hot. There are a number of places to stop for drinks, though. The members are nice and supportive, so we are well watered, though they tend to just put a bowl outside for us to lap from... actually, come to think of it, those bowls may be for their dogs...
I have been yo-yoing on my dieting. We have eggs every day for breakfast,
and I tend to have refried beans and salsa with eggs for lunch. Dinners we tend
to go to member's houses where they very graciously set us a spot at their
tables. On Friday, we have pizza and cookie dough for lunch and dinner... not
very healthy. Although they do have a Chili's deal that we employ for lunch were
it is unlimited Soup & Salad for $7. Not to bad for someone who generally eats
$16 worth of soup and $9 worth of salads.
Everyone in my apartment looks to me to get them in shape, but then they
don't want to run in the morning (to be honest, though, I don't really want to
either). This morning, I went running with Elder Holmes, who is a month away
from going home. I think I almost sent him home early. He was bent over double
heaving and huffing half way into our run. I don't think having him go through
wind sprints with me was a great idea for his first workout in 2 months.
Tomorrow, I'm making the rest of the apartment work out with me.
I'm getting a pretty nice farmer's tan. My forearms are the reddish brown
color of burnt clay, and my shoulder is a pasty white of white guy skin. I
started wearing my watch dangling from my backpack strap instead of on my wrist
simply so that I don't get that tan line.
I'm thinking about buying two nerf guns...
Anyway, look forward to hearing from people (gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net or the
mailing address below), and I shall respond ASAP. Take care, and Stay
Classy!!!
8267 Deseret Ave
Fair Oaks, CA, 95628
It's a brand new day!
I am currently living in Lodi, CA. It is a smallish city, and it takes but half an hour for me to bike around my entire proselyiting area, but there is an In-N-Out burger, and I am pretty sure my burger and fries was 2000 calories alone. It was tasty though. I am coupled with an Elder Busselberg, a missionary who is twenty years old, and twenty months into his mission. He is from Milwaukee, WI, has a toupe (not really, it's just a really bad haircut), and is a goof... lightly annoying, but in a fun way.
My final days in the MTC were hectic. New Mission Presidents were being trained, so they ended up cancelling one of our classes and sticking us into the gym where we watched "The Other Side of Heaven".
I love that movie. Our District at the MTC was great. We were from West Jordan, UT (two), Provo (two), Nashville, Las Vegas, Star Valley, WY, Fulton, MO, and Toronto. We would re-enact Potter Puppet Pals all the time. I was Ron. Our District Leader, Elder Strickland (Nashville) was Dumbledore. He was very convincing. Six of us ended up coming to Sacramento, and 4 were scheduled for Jamaica, but Strickland had Visa problems, so he is in Pheonix, AZ. I told him to hit up Briana and sal while he is out there. We had a great last few nights of sleepovers (sort of), pictures, and vending machine/microwavable burrito induced gas. It was not pretty at times, and my companion got pretty angry at one point (not with me!), but all in all, our group was very sad to be disbanding. Our last Sunday, we were about to head over to the Provo temple to walk the grounds, and I was feeling a little hot in my suit.
I thought it was probably a little over 80. Our Branch President comes up to us and tells us the we don't have to wear our jackets because it was over a hundred degrees. I must say, i love dry heat!!!
10 missionaries flew out of Salt Lake at 11:26 MST, and landed at the Sacramento Airport at 12:10, but there was a problem with the mechanics of the door and we were locked in the plane for an additional hour. We finally got off the plane and were greeted by our Mission President, H. Benson Lewis. He and his wife skipped the handshakes to give us hugs. We got a group photo, and headed off to do a Temple tour of the Sacramento Temple. It was gorgeous. It is on a rise, and the temple has these Gondorion arched walk ways. There is a small garden, and a lovely tree off to the side. So lovely. After Subway and some introductions, we headed off to the Presidents home where we had a wonderful dinner and met some more Elders and Senior Missionaries. They were playing Josh Groban (YES!!!). The next day, I was set up with Elder Busselberg, and found out I was headed to a biking mission. I quickly talked to a departing missionary, and bought his wheels for a dollar. He told me his bike was a legend in the mission named Old Blue. We swung over to Rancho Cordova and picked it up. The missionaries there told me that Old Blue had been passed around quite a bit, and I was lucky to have him. It had shoddy brakes, a bent wheel, and an hour into my first day, the front tire blew.
Luckily, an Elder Lawrence and I spent all yesterday together while our companions went to a leadership thingy, and he is pretty good with his hands. The only thing wrong with Blue now is the wobbily rear wheel. I'll get it fixed soon.
Speaking of swithces, I have already been a part of 5 different companionships. Usually, 2 "exchanges" occur each 6 weeks; I have had five in my first week. It's been strange. There are 4 missionaries that live in our appartment, and one of them leaves in 5 weeks, one in3 months, and then my companion leaves in less than 6 months. They all thought I was lying when I say I'm almost 23, because only one of them is over 21. They are a little bit on the dirty side; dishes tend to pile up in the sink, the garbage over flows, and there are always random tid bits of clithing in random places. By the way, when I say dishes, I mean one of the 3 plates we have, the one pan, and all 6 of our utensils. I do not know what the missionaries were eating on/with before us, but I am really thinking about getting a pan, plate, bowl, and utensils to just keep with me as I move around.
My first Sunday as a missionary was so much fun. Being the first Sunday of the month, we had a testimony meeting were the entire time is open to the congregation to come up to the pulpit and bear their testimony. 6 kids went up pretty fast, bearing the typical testimony; "I'd like to bear my testimony, I know this Church is true, i love my mommy and daddy, inthenameofJesuschristamen!"It is so cute with their goofy, shy voices. I went next, and while staring at the podium itself very quietly began "I'd like to bear my testimony...... I know this Church is true....... I love my- I'm just messing with you. Hi, I'm Elder Strawn" I looked up and everyone was staring at me like I was super strange, or overly simple, but then they all laughed. It was alot of fun. We teach a Sunday School class, too, so I am getting to know the ward a little better. On the walk home, a member pulled up next to us and offered us a ride. He was Don Van Noy, who is the grandfather of Kyle van Noy, Linebacker for the BYU Cougars!!!
I'm really starting to like it out here. There haven't been any earthquakes for a while (18-24 months, or so), the weather is nice, and the people are great.I have found so much more joy in my life in the last month, and I am so grateful to be here. I have been reading the Book of Mormon (In Spanish!!!), praying, and feeling the Spirit of God. I miss you all!!!!
Friday, June 22, 2012
Not flirty, just metro
Ok, in reality, I barely even made it out here to Provo, Utah. I was just
able to meet with my Stake President the night before so that I could be set
apart as a missionary. I got home and had to remain dressed in my whites and tie
as I packed my body-and-a-half sized duffel bag with everything I felt I would
need for the next two years. I began to freak out a bit as I thought of things I
though I would need, left behind things I realized were superfluous, and found
forms I didn't know existed that I had never sent in. Hyperventalating is an
understatement. Well, 2:30 am rolled around and I decided to get a bit of shut
eye before flying out of Mitchell Airport at 6:30. I woke back up at 3:50,
finished shoving a bunch of socks and other such junk in my bag, threw it in our
Honda Pilot, and drove off.
We arrived slightly behind schedule at the airport, but there was a very
friendly check in man waiting at the drop off area. I checked in, weighed my
bag, and received my boarding pass and baggage claim ticket. I proceeded slowly
up the escalator, resplendent in a blue pinstripe suit, sleek black shoes
(courtesy of Laura), a dashing red tie (courtesy of Brandon), and... MY TIES!!!
it was at this time I remebered that I had not packed my ties in my rush. I
would be left with but one tie until my family was able to send the rest to me.
But the worst was yet to come.
I had waited in line, slowly advancing, until I finally stood before the
agent would would direct me to empty my pockets, take off my shoes, and lose my
belt. Instead, she told me that my name was not my own, meaning that I had the
wrong ticket. It was 6:02 am, and I couldn't get on the plane. A nearby TSA
agent stepped over, and ran three laps around the airport before she had gotten
me a ticket, rerouted my bag, and returned triumphant. I was expedited through
the security, and boarded the plane 79 seconds before they locked the door. The
flight was uneventful (napped), the layover in Minneapolis- St. Paul was
uneventful (napped), and the flight over the mountains to land in Salt Lake was
Mostly uneventful (napped). BEfore I was able to let my eyelids droop over my
eyes, a simply dressed young woman turned to me and asked "Are you going to the
Missionary Training Center?" I nodded ad confirmed that I was indeed headed to
the MTC. A huge grin split her face as she responded "ME TOO!!!"
I was so gald for her spirited response. As I dwelled on it, I thought more
and more about how wonderful an experience I could have over the next two years
if only I allowed myself that joy. Her name is Sis. Salfi. She is from Canada,
and will be serving in the Denver South Mission.
When we landed in Salt Lake, I waited patiently for my ride, and eventually
Jared Bingham appeared as if summoned, walking towards me. He took me to a Soup,
Salad, and Sandwich place (Zupas, maybe) after a tour of Salt Lake, and we ate
with Patrick Carroll. I made it to the MTC, and found myself surrounded by
missionaries. My journey had only just begun.
A slightly more full report will follow in a week. In the meantime, feel
free to email me at gavin.strawn@myldsmail.net. If you
do so, please include a mailing address as I will not be able to email you back.
If you would like to mail me a letter or package (no food stuffs, most
unfortunately), that address is -Elder Gavin Dunlap Straw -2005 N 900 E -Provo,
UT 84604. If you feel so inclined, feel free to include a stamp.
I closing, I have already greatly loved this experience, and look forward
to another 103 such gleeful stories coming to you through my dearest mother who
has so gratefully accepted the responsibility of posting my emails on my blog,
and thence to my facebook. Cheers to all, and may your lives be as joyous as
these last ten days have been for me.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
A new start
I put off this post for a very simple reason; it would make it real for me. I have had three mini meltdowns and a frantic freak out; and am now in the acceptance stage (though I am sure I am going to relapse).
I leave my home for Utah in 4 and a half hours. I will return home in June of 2014. I will miss many friends, weddings, graduations, celebrations, births, deaths, and be apart from it all. I know there will be times that I will want to come back home.
I also know that I need to be out there. I need to go to Sacramento and learn and teach. I need this far more than most anyone I will come in contact with. I look froward to growing into someone I never knew that I could be.
love you all.
I leave my home for Utah in 4 and a half hours. I will return home in June of 2014. I will miss many friends, weddings, graduations, celebrations, births, deaths, and be apart from it all. I know there will be times that I will want to come back home.
I also know that I need to be out there. I need to go to Sacramento and learn and teach. I need this far more than most anyone I will come in contact with. I look froward to growing into someone I never knew that I could be.
love you all.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Mommy's are the best!
Today is my sister's first Mother's Day. She has a gorgeous, yodeling, wild haired boy. She has a handsome Sicilian for a husband. I find her to be one of the strongest personalities I have ever met. When she knows what to do, she does it. I love her, and wish her family the best. We are on the phone with her and her fam, and her baby is chortling. I LOVE YOU GUYS!!!
Now, to talk about my own mom.
On April 14th, I was able to convince my mother to buy the first season of Chuck. Three hours into watching the show, we had already ordered season 2 on DVD off Amazon. By the time I was half way through season 2, we had order seasons 3 and 4, and pre-ordered season 5. We connected ourselves to special events in the characters lives as the show progressed, including buying chess puffs, dressing up for the wedding (Awesome and Ellie get married at the end of season 2. Sorry to spoil it) and buying bottles of bubbly. We would drink fruit juice from wine glasses while watching White Collar, and eat yogurt with Michael Westen in Burn Notice. We squealed with delight at the union of Scarecrow and Mrs. King (1970's and 80's TV show), and giggled madly at the fight choreography.
We have had an enormous amount of fun watching so many seasons of so many shows in the last year. It has been thoroughly enjoyable. I leave my family in less than a month, and I will miss my mom the most. I did not realize that until now, but there is little that my mom has done that I would argue against.
For everyone who loves their mother (and to quote Meg Ryan "Everyone loves their mother. Even people that hate their mothers love their mother."), thank them for everything they have done. I cannot even begin to fathom the will power it took to not give up on me when I was a kid.
Thank you mom, for everything I know you have done, for everything I don;t know that you have done for me, and for so much more that I know that you will be doing for me in the future. Love you tons.
Now, to talk about my own mom.
On April 14th, I was able to convince my mother to buy the first season of Chuck. Three hours into watching the show, we had already ordered season 2 on DVD off Amazon. By the time I was half way through season 2, we had order seasons 3 and 4, and pre-ordered season 5. We connected ourselves to special events in the characters lives as the show progressed, including buying chess puffs, dressing up for the wedding (Awesome and Ellie get married at the end of season 2. Sorry to spoil it) and buying bottles of bubbly. We would drink fruit juice from wine glasses while watching White Collar, and eat yogurt with Michael Westen in Burn Notice. We squealed with delight at the union of Scarecrow and Mrs. King (1970's and 80's TV show), and giggled madly at the fight choreography.
We have had an enormous amount of fun watching so many seasons of so many shows in the last year. It has been thoroughly enjoyable. I leave my family in less than a month, and I will miss my mom the most. I did not realize that until now, but there is little that my mom has done that I would argue against.
For everyone who loves their mother (and to quote Meg Ryan "Everyone loves their mother. Even people that hate their mothers love their mother."), thank them for everything they have done. I cannot even begin to fathom the will power it took to not give up on me when I was a kid.
Thank you mom, for everything I know you have done, for everything I don;t know that you have done for me, and for so much more that I know that you will be doing for me in the future. Love you tons.
Sunday, May 6, 2012
I'm getting mixed signals here.
When I lived in Burke Hall, I dabbled with the idea of playing rugby or la crosse, and eventually decided on the latter. But that is a story for another day. I will instead tell a story of institute.
For those of you who don't know, institute is a form of Gospel Study designed for young adults in the Church. We study doctrine and gospel teachings at the home of our teacher on Thursday nights. Now I am using the term "we" somewhat loosely because, thus fa, I have been the only one to attend class with our teacher (excepting her husband and daughter). It is very sad because she does have so much to teach, so much to offer, and a unique perspective on the material within the lessons. It is kinda cool as well because once the lesson is over I get to just hang out with the family and talk with them about life, my upcoming departure, school, work, kids, etc.
This past week, the lesson was on Matthew 20. I did not recognize the scriptural reference off the top of my head, either, so I have included a link to my favorite set of online scripture. The passage speaks of a master of a vineyard who, through out the day, hires workers, who work hours between 1) the whole day (6am-6pm), 2)portions there of (9-6, 12-6, 3-6), and finally 3) those hired in the 11th Hour (5-6). At the end of the day, every laborer is paid an equal amount. Those hired first claim that this is unfair, that those who worked far less than they should be paid an equal share.
The main point of this parable is that no matter when the master of the vineyard comes to you, no matter when you come unto him, you will be rewarded in full. I find another valuable lesson in this.
When the master of the vineyard announced that every laborer would be paid in full, there was a bickering among those that had worked the fullness of the day, but had received wages equal of those who had worked as few as a single hour thereof. The master told them that the wage had been agreed upon before hand, and that there is no unfairness in his dealings, yet there is still anger among many of the laborers. Now, it is no business of the first laborer what the master does with his money, so long as his agreement is fulfilled. It is not up to the laborer to claim what is just and fair. The laborer must accept that by being paid, the master had done his part, and all that is left for him to do is be thankful.
Far too often we absorb ourselves with the goings on of others lives. We spend hours of our days surfing the web to get the latest scoop on celebrity gossip, or pay $8 an issue to learn the juicy details of a recent arrest, love tryst, marital argument, or drunken escapade. We then complain about how these people get the breaks, earn 75K per episode for acting like idiots on network TV, or earn multi-million dollar contracts top play a game.
It is not our place to point the judging finger, but we all take the opportunity to thrust it in others directions from time to time. If we want to act in movies, or marry royalty, or play at Wrigley Field/Lambeau Field/Yankee Stadium/The Mercedes-Benz Superdome/Fenway Park/(Insert your favorite sports complex here), then you had an opportunity. Yes, some people got the break of meeting Prince Henry, or not blowing out a knee in the midst of a great senior season, or having parents that have the political clout to get you in touch with talent scouts (even you have no semblance of talent whatsoever (REBECCA BLACK!!!)), but it is still your life.
It is up to you whether or not you are happy. I still want to play for the Pack on Sundays (although I would prefer it if all of our games were scheduled for Monday and Thursday night). If I worked uber hard, I might still be able to pull it off by the time I'm 29 years old (Brandon Weeden). But the truth is, I do not have the drive to do that. So it is, therefore, my fault that I am not playing football. And I can live with that.
We can only do as much as we can. After that, it is up to us to accept that we have been given the payments of our labors. Don't worry about the other guy/gal. Just worry about yourself.
For those of you who don't know, institute is a form of Gospel Study designed for young adults in the Church. We study doctrine and gospel teachings at the home of our teacher on Thursday nights. Now I am using the term "we" somewhat loosely because, thus fa, I have been the only one to attend class with our teacher (excepting her husband and daughter). It is very sad because she does have so much to teach, so much to offer, and a unique perspective on the material within the lessons. It is kinda cool as well because once the lesson is over I get to just hang out with the family and talk with them about life, my upcoming departure, school, work, kids, etc.
This past week, the lesson was on Matthew 20. I did not recognize the scriptural reference off the top of my head, either, so I have included a link to my favorite set of online scripture. The passage speaks of a master of a vineyard who, through out the day, hires workers, who work hours between 1) the whole day (6am-6pm), 2)portions there of (9-6, 12-6, 3-6), and finally 3) those hired in the 11th Hour (5-6). At the end of the day, every laborer is paid an equal amount. Those hired first claim that this is unfair, that those who worked far less than they should be paid an equal share.
The main point of this parable is that no matter when the master of the vineyard comes to you, no matter when you come unto him, you will be rewarded in full. I find another valuable lesson in this.
When the master of the vineyard announced that every laborer would be paid in full, there was a bickering among those that had worked the fullness of the day, but had received wages equal of those who had worked as few as a single hour thereof. The master told them that the wage had been agreed upon before hand, and that there is no unfairness in his dealings, yet there is still anger among many of the laborers. Now, it is no business of the first laborer what the master does with his money, so long as his agreement is fulfilled. It is not up to the laborer to claim what is just and fair. The laborer must accept that by being paid, the master had done his part, and all that is left for him to do is be thankful.
Far too often we absorb ourselves with the goings on of others lives. We spend hours of our days surfing the web to get the latest scoop on celebrity gossip, or pay $8 an issue to learn the juicy details of a recent arrest, love tryst, marital argument, or drunken escapade. We then complain about how these people get the breaks, earn 75K per episode for acting like idiots on network TV, or earn multi-million dollar contracts top play a game.
It is not our place to point the judging finger, but we all take the opportunity to thrust it in others directions from time to time. If we want to act in movies, or marry royalty, or play at Wrigley Field/Lambeau Field/Yankee Stadium/The Mercedes-Benz Superdome/Fenway Park/(Insert your favorite sports complex here), then you had an opportunity. Yes, some people got the break of meeting Prince Henry, or not blowing out a knee in the midst of a great senior season, or having parents that have the political clout to get you in touch with talent scouts (even you have no semblance of talent whatsoever (REBECCA BLACK!!!)), but it is still your life.
It is up to you whether or not you are happy. I still want to play for the Pack on Sundays (although I would prefer it if all of our games were scheduled for Monday and Thursday night). If I worked uber hard, I might still be able to pull it off by the time I'm 29 years old (Brandon Weeden). But the truth is, I do not have the drive to do that. So it is, therefore, my fault that I am not playing football. And I can live with that.
We can only do as much as we can. After that, it is up to us to accept that we have been given the payments of our labors. Don't worry about the other guy/gal. Just worry about yourself.
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