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
Monday, October 15, 2012
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!
 |
| 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
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