July 6, 2009
Hey,
Did not know Uncle Chuck was in Alaska at the time till he said it at the end of the call. All I knew was that my companion, Elder Parker, needed some advice and the people in the mission who are supposed to give the advice were not answering their phones. So I thought it would be best to call him.
I like this area much better. The homes aren't nearly as big and people actually appreciate what they have. Meaning, they don't go on spending sprees. The people here are much more humble, the part I like most.
Well, I kinda forget how old people are. It just sounded like he was already there! I was thinking....naw....really? Anita hurt her ankle....uhh...news to me!
My health? Well, the digestive booster you sent me...I can't swallow at all. Everything else is fine. Yes, I am getting in plenty of water. Why wouldn't I? It is 95 stinking degrees out here! Every home we stop by we get water from. Brother Farnsworth mentioned that to Aunt Sharon huh? (mom-that Austin looked pale) I don't know what could be wrong then. Iron intake is better than ever. Grape Nuts helps with 90% in one serving. Luckily I love Grape Nuts and all those healthy cereals. I did see one thing wrong, or rather felt. On Sunday I was depressed all day. No clue as to why, especailly during testimony meeting! GAHH! I haven't been feeling cold or anything like that. So...I really just do not know.
I need input on something. My vision is getting worse. I prayed about it and felt like it wasn't necessary to get it checked out. I also was impressed that if I felt so inclined I should talk to you about it. What do you say?
Independence Day out here is literally a warzone. There is smoke everywhere, fireworks lighting up along the way, bottle rockets flying everywhere, bombs literally bursting in the air. People shouting at you as you drive home to turn off your headlights...which I didn't. Oh yeah, I'm driving a truck! WOO!
Teaching time! The importance of prayer! Read D&C 39+40. Then go to D&C 10:5, 3Nephi 18: 18-19, and Helaman 5:12. When you read those, you will realize how vital prayer is in our lives. So pray always!
Take care!
Elder Austin Waller
Monday, July 6, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Weeks 42-45
June 29, 2009
Hey,
Answer to the movie question. Do NOT post it on the internet. I will repeat that. Do NOT post it on the internet. You can show it to people, but not online. Yes, I would very much be appreciative to have the memory back. Good to hear that it got to you alright. Thank you Mom. The pianist is Elder Epps. He is really good and can you believe that it was improv? Well it was! WOO!
We had a baptism this week. His name is Alan Battles. Very neat guy. I really like teaching people older than me because you learn from them as they are learning from you. It is really cool! Still, this area is really slow, but we are doing what we can to prepare the stakes for member missionary work.
My companion, Elder Holden, is leaving for Alabama Thursday morning. He likes to write a lot. Today he is downtown and will be going through SLC temple. Nice.
The talks were great! It made me feel really good when Dad used Joshua 1:9. Thank Dr. Piper for the Detroitosaurus Wrecks. (We sent Austin a copy of the cover of a magazine-The Economist- which had a T-Rex made of car parts-very clever) My companions liked it a lot, but of course I had much more appreciation for it. Why? I love dinosaurs! WOO!
Hmmm, so the lack of communication gene comes from Dad huh? (In reference to a funny misunderstanding story I told Austin) I'm managing. We had a communication thing out here as well, so I can relate! We were in the Oquirrh Mountain Temple open house at the baptismal font. We were stopped, explaining to someone we were taking through what the temple font was for. The lady behind us stopped and backed up the line. Elder Makiyama asked for her to go on by. For some reason she pointed at the font and said, "You first." This really confused him so he asked her again. Again she said for him to get in the font. I came to the rescue and explained to her that he wasn't telling her to get into the font, he was telling her that she could go past us. It is really funny to us now, telling a non-member to go by and she thinking he wanted to baptize her. Goes to show you what people immediately think about us when they see us. That is why only Sister Missionaries are on temple duty!
Anyways, transfers are coming up and I am wondering what will happen. I hear that Transformers 2 is out. I heard it was really good! Of course, I don't care had they said it was horrible, when I get back I will watch it. You don't see my smile right now because all you see is text! MWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! (laughter)
Hey, where is Matt serving?
With love always,
Elder Austin Waller
Answer to the movie question. Do NOT post it on the internet. I will repeat that. Do NOT post it on the internet. You can show it to people, but not online. Yes, I would very much be appreciative to have the memory back. Good to hear that it got to you alright. Thank you Mom. The pianist is Elder Epps. He is really good and can you believe that it was improv? Well it was! WOO!
We had a baptism this week. His name is Alan Battles. Very neat guy. I really like teaching people older than me because you learn from them as they are learning from you. It is really cool! Still, this area is really slow, but we are doing what we can to prepare the stakes for member missionary work.
My companion, Elder Holden, is leaving for Alabama Thursday morning. He likes to write a lot. Today he is downtown and will be going through SLC temple. Nice.
The talks were great! It made me feel really good when Dad used Joshua 1:9. Thank Dr. Piper for the Detroitosaurus Wrecks. (We sent Austin a copy of the cover of a magazine-The Economist- which had a T-Rex made of car parts-very clever) My companions liked it a lot, but of course I had much more appreciation for it. Why? I love dinosaurs! WOO!
Hmmm, so the lack of communication gene comes from Dad huh? (In reference to a funny misunderstanding story I told Austin) I'm managing. We had a communication thing out here as well, so I can relate! We were in the Oquirrh Mountain Temple open house at the baptismal font. We were stopped, explaining to someone we were taking through what the temple font was for. The lady behind us stopped and backed up the line. Elder Makiyama asked for her to go on by. For some reason she pointed at the font and said, "You first." This really confused him so he asked her again. Again she said for him to get in the font. I came to the rescue and explained to her that he wasn't telling her to get into the font, he was telling her that she could go past us. It is really funny to us now, telling a non-member to go by and she thinking he wanted to baptize her. Goes to show you what people immediately think about us when they see us. That is why only Sister Missionaries are on temple duty!
Anyways, transfers are coming up and I am wondering what will happen. I hear that Transformers 2 is out. I heard it was really good! Of course, I don't care had they said it was horrible, when I get back I will watch it. You don't see my smile right now because all you see is text! MWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! (laughter)
Hey, where is Matt serving?
With love always,
Elder Austin Waller
Austin's address is:
Elder Austin Waller
Utah SLC South Mission
8060 South 615 East
Sandy, Utah 84070
e-mail: adwaller@myldsmail.net
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
June 22, 2009
Hey!
Nearly forgot the week number? Wow...I have to look either at this or the last one I sent. You just lose track of time out here. It is merely a day of the week with a number attached to it. Sundays are hard. Mondays are fun. Tuesdays are tiring. Wednesdays are difficult to find work. Thursdays are similar. Friday has a lot of planning. Saturday is also difficult, especially when most everyone ignores you. Holidays are the worst because NO ONE IS HOME!
I got the package but have yet to open it. I hope there is a list of the songs. Don't worry, I'm confident you found the appropriate ones. We like the exact same stuff remember?
This week has been...interesting to say the least. Ok, so it was quite creepy. Dangerous? No. Just creepy. An example is that one of the nights we had a call come through our landlords, the Henries, home phone. It says the name of the caller. Well, the caller was zero-zero-zero-zero-zero-zero-zero. We were freaking out. We only learned about two days ago that it was a reverse 911 warning us about the mudslides happening. Nothing happened to us, so don't fret. That was just one of them. The others, uhh, I will leave for another time. Can't really express those in written words.
I got to do something that missionaries rarely get the opportunity to do. I got to sit in on a patriarchal blessing! WOO! Rudy Vidal is awesome. I only taught him new member lessons but he is cool. More missionaries witness sealings than patriarchal blessings.
Did you get the pictures I sent? Hopefully they don't just leave it at the door. That would not be good. I would be EXTREMELY upset. Anyways, let me know.
Love to all,
Elder Austin Waller
------------------------------------------------------------------
June 15, 2009
Hey,
This week has been really hard both physically and mentally. Physically because we had to evade huge storms in which there was lightning every 10 seconds. Mentally because of all the stress occurring. It is good to know that there are two coming my way. I don't specifically care, just as many as you can find.
I'm telling you, words have far more impact on lives than people realize. Both constructive and destructive. I wish people would look at the things they are saying more often.
So most everyone is moving huh? Not cool. I was able to see President Cottrell, the new mission president for the Raleigh mission. He said he already has it scheduled to meet President Brew and maybe come out and see the ward. Yay! He is a nice guy. You will like him. I told him about the elders being pulled out of the ward.
I really like teaching people out here who are older than me. This is because they teach things to you as well! Anyways. The Toms sent me a card with a Brittany on it. Has a lot of "Hi's." They expressed an appreciation for your talks, calling them great and other really good descriptive terms. Thanks! I'll look forward to next week.
Love,
Elder Austin Waller
This week has been really hard both physically and mentally. Physically because we had to evade huge storms in which there was lightning every 10 seconds. Mentally because of all the stress occurring. It is good to know that there are two coming my way. I don't specifically care, just as many as you can find.
I'm telling you, words have far more impact on lives than people realize. Both constructive and destructive. I wish people would look at the things they are saying more often.
So most everyone is moving huh? Not cool. I was able to see President Cottrell, the new mission president for the Raleigh mission. He said he already has it scheduled to meet President Brew and maybe come out and see the ward. Yay! He is a nice guy. You will like him. I told him about the elders being pulled out of the ward.
I really like teaching people out here who are older than me. This is because they teach things to you as well! Anyways. The Toms sent me a card with a Brittany on it. Has a lot of "Hi's." They expressed an appreciation for your talks, calling them great and other really good descriptive terms. Thanks! I'll look forward to next week.
Love,
Elder Austin Waller
------------------------------------------------------------------
June 8, 2009
Hey,
Sounds fun over there. Did that necessarily happen here this week? Uhhh...not at all. Lets just say that patience is wearing VERY thin. So this was a frustrating week.
Anything cool? This morning was possibly the coolest moment this entire transfer. One of our investigators, an "eternal investigator," told us about a dream he had a while back. In that dream he was told to read the book of Titus. Of course, he didn't even know that the book of Titus existed at the time he had this dream. Later on he found it. At the end, we all exchanged scriptures to read. Today we read Jeremiah 23, the scripture he gave us that talks all about false prophets and some qualities of true prophets. We felt inspired to read Titus. Three chapters, three companions. The book of Titus answers ALL, EVERY SINGLE ONE, IN FINALITY, OVERALL, EVERYTHING, COMPLETELY, ALL of his questions. We were literally jumping out of our seats for this one. At the end of Titus, it even gave us instructions! Now how about that? Talk about being smacked in the face by the Spirit...in a spiritual way of course.
About the pictures. It would probably be easiest for me to send it by way of mail in the USB flash-drive. Why? It can hold 8GB of memory, that's why. Plus, I have many pictures which would require more than one CD.
Spider adventures? (mom wrote -Well, it is Asiatic Garden Beetle season. If the Milky White Spores we put out in March made them sick, I can’t see it. I’ve been gathering about 20 per night in a 15-20 minute time period. Although, I did take a break for a few days this week because of a surprise collected item. I came in from the dark and was showing Danny my catch, when I spotted a plump, crab looking spider. Aaaaaaaahhhh!!!!! (Temporary loss of breathing ability, loss of focus, creepy feelings for hours-fear). When I could look, the little guy looked so out of place, I felt sorry for him. “Trust me little guy, you were an accident.” I asked Danny to release him, but, he said “he got caught, let him die”. So, after calming down and truly feeling sorry for Crabbie, I isolated him from the beetles and VERY CAREFULLY partially opened his corner of the zip lock bag. I quickly withdrew after Crabbie creeped out. He seemed to look back with a thanks and disappeared. This is outside of course.) Hmm....I could picture that happening. Crabbie. Although how it got in the bag, I am clueless. Somehow, you grabbed it thinking it was a coffee bean beetle (they look like coffee beans), then put it in the bag. You know that was a jumping spider right? Consider watching Eight Legged Freaks again. Yeah...you know it. Hooray for goofy sounding spiders and carnival music! YAY!
Speaking of music. Could you perchance be able to select some of the calming songs from the movie soundtracks, burn them to a CD, then mail it here? No upbeat or intense music though. Just that. If so, then...YAY! Are my "YAYs" making me sound more real? I think I was just really happy that day. Don't know why.
Off to save the Valley!
Elder Austin Waller
Sounds fun over there. Did that necessarily happen here this week? Uhhh...not at all. Lets just say that patience is wearing VERY thin. So this was a frustrating week.
Anything cool? This morning was possibly the coolest moment this entire transfer. One of our investigators, an "eternal investigator," told us about a dream he had a while back. In that dream he was told to read the book of Titus. Of course, he didn't even know that the book of Titus existed at the time he had this dream. Later on he found it. At the end, we all exchanged scriptures to read. Today we read Jeremiah 23, the scripture he gave us that talks all about false prophets and some qualities of true prophets. We felt inspired to read Titus. Three chapters, three companions. The book of Titus answers ALL, EVERY SINGLE ONE, IN FINALITY, OVERALL, EVERYTHING, COMPLETELY, ALL of his questions. We were literally jumping out of our seats for this one. At the end of Titus, it even gave us instructions! Now how about that? Talk about being smacked in the face by the Spirit...in a spiritual way of course.
About the pictures. It would probably be easiest for me to send it by way of mail in the USB flash-drive. Why? It can hold 8GB of memory, that's why. Plus, I have many pictures which would require more than one CD.
Spider adventures? (mom wrote -Well, it is Asiatic Garden Beetle season. If the Milky White Spores we put out in March made them sick, I can’t see it. I’ve been gathering about 20 per night in a 15-20 minute time period. Although, I did take a break for a few days this week because of a surprise collected item. I came in from the dark and was showing Danny my catch, when I spotted a plump, crab looking spider. Aaaaaaaahhhh!!!!! (Temporary loss of breathing ability, loss of focus, creepy feelings for hours-fear). When I could look, the little guy looked so out of place, I felt sorry for him. “Trust me little guy, you were an accident.” I asked Danny to release him, but, he said “he got caught, let him die”. So, after calming down and truly feeling sorry for Crabbie, I isolated him from the beetles and VERY CAREFULLY partially opened his corner of the zip lock bag. I quickly withdrew after Crabbie creeped out. He seemed to look back with a thanks and disappeared. This is outside of course.) Hmm....I could picture that happening. Crabbie. Although how it got in the bag, I am clueless. Somehow, you grabbed it thinking it was a coffee bean beetle (they look like coffee beans), then put it in the bag. You know that was a jumping spider right? Consider watching Eight Legged Freaks again. Yeah...you know it. Hooray for goofy sounding spiders and carnival music! YAY!
Speaking of music. Could you perchance be able to select some of the calming songs from the movie soundtracks, burn them to a CD, then mail it here? No upbeat or intense music though. Just that. If so, then...YAY! Are my "YAYs" making me sound more real? I think I was just really happy that day. Don't know why.
Off to save the Valley!
Elder Austin Waller
----------------------------------------------------------------
June 1, 2009
Hey,
Very good news! I was able to sell my bike for $400. Yay! We also had a baptism! Yay! He was Russian! Yay! I have a headache! Yay! I am being as optimistic as I possibly can for this week! Yay!
So it was a very good week at parts. Most of it though was one big headache. I gave a talk on Sunday as well. It was based on fear and faith. I just seem to give really powerful talks when I base missionary work on that. Many people get up to shake our hands after it. There are some times where I wonder whether people like the person or the title.
Do not buy any memory for my camera! I have plenty! I just bought a USB so I can put my pictures on it and send it. It would be much easier that way. The letter quote is very true, probably why there is much humor found in it! (mom wrote-On Saturday, Dad talked with Uncle Brian. Together they came up with this short description of a mission from a parental view. “Write a letter, read a letter, write a check (repeated over and over).” Having sent out three missionaries, Brother Tom especially appreciated it. He let out an extra big laugh when dad delivered it.)
AHH! PACKAGES! While they are nice...they can be a hassle. Ummm.....I really have no idea. I can't really think of anything. My mind is just whirling with things that need to be done and cannot slow down to think for myself. Now you are making me think.....there is nothing that I really NEED. I can suggest things not to send. No candy or hygiene items. I seem to be in excess of those. Be creative.
Still it is good to have a day of rest after a long hard week. That is my favorite commandment, Keep the Sabbath Day. Why? It commands you to REST!!!
Love to all,
Elder Austin Waller
Very good news! I was able to sell my bike for $400. Yay! We also had a baptism! Yay! He was Russian! Yay! I have a headache! Yay! I am being as optimistic as I possibly can for this week! Yay!
So it was a very good week at parts. Most of it though was one big headache. I gave a talk on Sunday as well. It was based on fear and faith. I just seem to give really powerful talks when I base missionary work on that. Many people get up to shake our hands after it. There are some times where I wonder whether people like the person or the title.
Do not buy any memory for my camera! I have plenty! I just bought a USB so I can put my pictures on it and send it. It would be much easier that way. The letter quote is very true, probably why there is much humor found in it! (mom wrote-On Saturday, Dad talked with Uncle Brian. Together they came up with this short description of a mission from a parental view. “Write a letter, read a letter, write a check (repeated over and over).” Having sent out three missionaries, Brother Tom especially appreciated it. He let out an extra big laugh when dad delivered it.)
AHH! PACKAGES! While they are nice...they can be a hassle. Ummm.....I really have no idea. I can't really think of anything. My mind is just whirling with things that need to be done and cannot slow down to think for myself. Now you are making me think.....there is nothing that I really NEED. I can suggest things not to send. No candy or hygiene items. I seem to be in excess of those. Be creative.
Still it is good to have a day of rest after a long hard week. That is my favorite commandment, Keep the Sabbath Day. Why? It commands you to REST!!!
Love to all,
Elder Austin Waller
Monday, June 1, 2009
week 41
Elder Makiyama, Elder Waller, Elder Holden, New Convert
June 1, 2009
Hey,
Very good news! I was able to sell my bike for $400. Yay! We also had a baptism! Yay! He was Russian! Yay! I have a headache! Yay! I am being as optimistic as I possibly can for this week! Yay!
So it was a very good week at parts. Most of it though was one big headache. I gave a talk on Sunday as well. It was based on fear and faith. I just seem to give really powerful talks when I base missionary work on that. Many people get up to shake our hands after it. There are some times where I wonder whether people like the person or the title.
Do not buy any memory for my camera! I have plenty! I just bought a USB so I can put my pictures on it and send it. It would be much easier that way. The letter quote is very true, probably why there is much humor found in it! (mom wrote- Saturday, Dad talked with Uncle Brian. Together they came up with this short description of a mission from a parental view. Danny used it in a talk he gave on Sunday. “Write a letter, read a letter, write a check (repeated over and over).” Having sent out three missionaries, Brother Tom especially appreciated it. He let out an extra big laugh when dad delivered it.
AHH! PACKAGES! While they are nice...they can be a hassle. Ummm.....I really have no idea. I can't really think of anything. My mind is just whirling with things that need to be done and cannot slow down to think for myself. Now you are making me think.....there is nothing that I really NEED. I can suggest things not to send. No candy or hygiene items. I seem to be in excess of those. Be creative.
Still it is good to have a day of rest after a long hard week. That is my favorite commandment, Keep the Sabbath Day. Why? It commands you to REST!!!
Love to all,
Elder Austin Waller
Very good news! I was able to sell my bike for $400. Yay! We also had a baptism! Yay! He was Russian! Yay! I have a headache! Yay! I am being as optimistic as I possibly can for this week! Yay!
So it was a very good week at parts. Most of it though was one big headache. I gave a talk on Sunday as well. It was based on fear and faith. I just seem to give really powerful talks when I base missionary work on that. Many people get up to shake our hands after it. There are some times where I wonder whether people like the person or the title.
Do not buy any memory for my camera! I have plenty! I just bought a USB so I can put my pictures on it and send it. It would be much easier that way. The letter quote is very true, probably why there is much humor found in it! (mom wrote- Saturday, Dad talked with Uncle Brian. Together they came up with this short description of a mission from a parental view. Danny used it in a talk he gave on Sunday. “Write a letter, read a letter, write a check (repeated over and over).” Having sent out three missionaries, Brother Tom especially appreciated it. He let out an extra big laugh when dad delivered it.
AHH! PACKAGES! While they are nice...they can be a hassle. Ummm.....I really have no idea. I can't really think of anything. My mind is just whirling with things that need to be done and cannot slow down to think for myself. Now you are making me think.....there is nothing that I really NEED. I can suggest things not to send. No candy or hygiene items. I seem to be in excess of those. Be creative.
Still it is good to have a day of rest after a long hard week. That is my favorite commandment, Keep the Sabbath Day. Why? It commands you to REST!!!
Love to all,
Elder Austin Waller
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Week 40
May 25, 2009
Hey!
Before you ask, yes the charges are mine!
Progress on the temperature situation. Well, I had the worst possible week on the mission. I was visiting the bathroom quite frequently during the day and night, puking out my guts. Digestive issue. Might have been due to lack of gall bladder. Temperature, getting better.*Anyways, I have seen the plumber syndrome here many times. Ace sure does seem to stick his nose into things he shouldn't...still. (mom wrote - *Plumber: We had a plumber come over to fix the bathtub's leaky faucet. Okay, I have heard about plumbers pants but never really took it seriously. Now I do. The very pleasant, tall, thirtyish plumber was nice enough to remove his high top, lace up shoes at the doorway. But, as he squatted down and bent over, is was obvious his low riding pants were a little big for him. Startled at the flesh flash, I monetarily lost control of Ace. You know Ace loves new odors. Instantly he had his nose where it had no business. I was so embarrassed. With great effort I hauled Ace into the extra room for penitence. But, because I don’t think he could repent, the door was tightly closed. Although a worded sign, “No customers allowed to observe while work is in progress” was not posted, the message was clear. Observe the plumber at your own risk. The faucet does not drip any longer.)
(mom wrote - Any words of wisdom you would like to share with our ward? Your dad and I are the main speakers for the 31st of May. We are to speak about Missionary Work. Since we have been given the general topic, I thought a little bit of speaking to the future missionaries would be a good idea. Plus, I am thinking about speaking to the mothers of future missionaries. Shortened, that would be “Mothers, you have a very difficult task ahead of you.”) Missionary work huh? You could talk about the power of words, examples, the actions we do, there are many. Something I have focused on is fear and doubt. Go over all the scriptures in the Topical Guide, pray about those things, and you can get a talk. One of my favorites is Joshua 1:9. But if you really want some good sources, just look in Preach My Gospel. Talk to the Young Men's President, Bro. Kipfer I think. He can get you one. If you mention what you can do as members of the church and state the importance of it, you will have a great talk. If people actually start doing what you say, you will see the Elders back in the ward. I can promise you that.
I'm starting to cook more. Scary thought huh? Don't worry, I know how. I do eat things other than Mac and Cheese. Usually rice, corn, beans, tuna, chicken, anything that sounds good. It is healthier than what would be eaten! Yay!
Trust me when I say I know what you are going through. I can tell because of the title. *64 weeks to go? Good grief. Also, every ward has at least two missionaries on a mission, so we meet those mothers every Sunday. We think it's funny because we know our moms are back at home doing the same thing. Hey, we get fed really good here because of it! If I can do missionary work 24/7, you can wait for 2 years. Keep yourself busy and it will fly by. (mom wrote - *I titled this week's e-mail week 40 - 64 to go)
To the Young Men and Women. Thanks for the letters and the supplies! Helps save on the budget I have here. The candy...built up my little (HUGE) stash of candy. Hey! You all need to get ready to go on a mission! Start now! You will not regret it if you get to know the lessons you share right now. I guarantee you that. Always be of good courage and never lower your standards. It is those standards that make you an example to others. Read Joshua 1:9. You will understand.
Love you all!
Elder Austin Waller
Hey!
Before you ask, yes the charges are mine!
Progress on the temperature situation. Well, I had the worst possible week on the mission. I was visiting the bathroom quite frequently during the day and night, puking out my guts. Digestive issue. Might have been due to lack of gall bladder. Temperature, getting better.*Anyways, I have seen the plumber syndrome here many times. Ace sure does seem to stick his nose into things he shouldn't...still. (mom wrote - *Plumber: We had a plumber come over to fix the bathtub's leaky faucet. Okay, I have heard about plumbers pants but never really took it seriously. Now I do. The very pleasant, tall, thirtyish plumber was nice enough to remove his high top, lace up shoes at the doorway. But, as he squatted down and bent over, is was obvious his low riding pants were a little big for him. Startled at the flesh flash, I monetarily lost control of Ace. You know Ace loves new odors. Instantly he had his nose where it had no business. I was so embarrassed. With great effort I hauled Ace into the extra room for penitence. But, because I don’t think he could repent, the door was tightly closed. Although a worded sign, “No customers allowed to observe while work is in progress” was not posted, the message was clear. Observe the plumber at your own risk. The faucet does not drip any longer.)
(mom wrote - Any words of wisdom you would like to share with our ward? Your dad and I are the main speakers for the 31st of May. We are to speak about Missionary Work. Since we have been given the general topic, I thought a little bit of speaking to the future missionaries would be a good idea. Plus, I am thinking about speaking to the mothers of future missionaries. Shortened, that would be “Mothers, you have a very difficult task ahead of you.”) Missionary work huh? You could talk about the power of words, examples, the actions we do, there are many. Something I have focused on is fear and doubt. Go over all the scriptures in the Topical Guide, pray about those things, and you can get a talk. One of my favorites is Joshua 1:9. But if you really want some good sources, just look in Preach My Gospel. Talk to the Young Men's President, Bro. Kipfer I think. He can get you one. If you mention what you can do as members of the church and state the importance of it, you will have a great talk. If people actually start doing what you say, you will see the Elders back in the ward. I can promise you that.
I'm starting to cook more. Scary thought huh? Don't worry, I know how. I do eat things other than Mac and Cheese. Usually rice, corn, beans, tuna, chicken, anything that sounds good. It is healthier than what would be eaten! Yay!
Trust me when I say I know what you are going through. I can tell because of the title. *64 weeks to go? Good grief. Also, every ward has at least two missionaries on a mission, so we meet those mothers every Sunday. We think it's funny because we know our moms are back at home doing the same thing. Hey, we get fed really good here because of it! If I can do missionary work 24/7, you can wait for 2 years. Keep yourself busy and it will fly by. (mom wrote - *I titled this week's e-mail week 40 - 64 to go)
To the Young Men and Women. Thanks for the letters and the supplies! Helps save on the budget I have here. The candy...built up my little (HUGE) stash of candy. Hey! You all need to get ready to go on a mission! Start now! You will not regret it if you get to know the lessons you share right now. I guarantee you that. Always be of good courage and never lower your standards. It is those standards that make you an example to others. Read Joshua 1:9. You will understand.
Love you all!
Elder Austin Waller
weeks 38-39
May 11, 2009
Hey,
It was really good talking to you. I was thinking that my one year at UNCW would be sufficient for me to transfer to BYU. If not, I'll go to UNCW. Still, the information would be nice. It is nice to know that some people have faith in my choice of career. It is being contended out here by some other missionaries, but I'm not letting that get my hopes down. My abilities are improving rapidly and it is also helping me see what I need to work on. Of course, that is done in free time. When the gospel is applied, the equation changes.
Thanks also for the information about being cold. I get the feeling that more activity would change that problem around. I might need to take Dad's advice and literally, roll out of bed.
The lesson last night did not happen, sadly. He was off doing Mother's Day stuff (something good). It is good to hear that about your prayers. One thing I would like to ask is that you pray that I can remember the things I learn, especially the doctrine I teach. It will help, I know it.
How is Alec doing as far as the stuff I am giving him? Is Jeremy using this as well? How are Shanna and Henry doing? What about the rest of the family? It would be nice to hear how they are doing as well. I trust they are doing fine, but I would still like to hear. Love you all.
Love,
Elder Austin Waller
-----------------------------------------------------------------
May 18
Hey,
This week was good, up until yesterday. Oh it was terrible! I am still feeling its effects. It had to be dinner or something. Sunday was not a good day. So, my faith in acting is growing rather quickly. Rudy Vidal (a recent convert) said he would gladly help me with contacts from New York after my mission. YAY! Two people we are teaching said that I reminded him during one of my talks of Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Jack Nicholson. He said it was weird that I was planning on being an actor and he thought those things. Coincedence? Quite sure it wasn't.
We are seeing what we can do about this sickness thing. Apparrently more people are getting worried about my always being cold. So we took my temperature. It is a whopping 95.2 degrees! That spurred me into action to really find out what is going on. Pray that everything will come to light.
For memory, I have been writing in my study journal. Yes it works, but not as good as I would like it. It is frustrating, but some things just don't work fast in me, unlike other things. Anyways, not much else is going on around here except for trying to find people. I just wish people would take us seriously and try to find people.
To the Kipfers. Thanks for the packages. I haven't opened them yet because I don't want them to be raided by 12 missionaries! I'll try to remember it in the next e-mail.
Love to all,
Elder Austin Waller
Hey,
It was really good talking to you. I was thinking that my one year at UNCW would be sufficient for me to transfer to BYU. If not, I'll go to UNCW. Still, the information would be nice. It is nice to know that some people have faith in my choice of career. It is being contended out here by some other missionaries, but I'm not letting that get my hopes down. My abilities are improving rapidly and it is also helping me see what I need to work on. Of course, that is done in free time. When the gospel is applied, the equation changes.
Thanks also for the information about being cold. I get the feeling that more activity would change that problem around. I might need to take Dad's advice and literally, roll out of bed.
The lesson last night did not happen, sadly. He was off doing Mother's Day stuff (something good). It is good to hear that about your prayers. One thing I would like to ask is that you pray that I can remember the things I learn, especially the doctrine I teach. It will help, I know it.
How is Alec doing as far as the stuff I am giving him? Is Jeremy using this as well? How are Shanna and Henry doing? What about the rest of the family? It would be nice to hear how they are doing as well. I trust they are doing fine, but I would still like to hear. Love you all.
Love,
Elder Austin Waller
-----------------------------------------------------------------
May 18
Hey,
This week was good, up until yesterday. Oh it was terrible! I am still feeling its effects. It had to be dinner or something. Sunday was not a good day. So, my faith in acting is growing rather quickly. Rudy Vidal (a recent convert) said he would gladly help me with contacts from New York after my mission. YAY! Two people we are teaching said that I reminded him during one of my talks of Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Jack Nicholson. He said it was weird that I was planning on being an actor and he thought those things. Coincedence? Quite sure it wasn't.
We are seeing what we can do about this sickness thing. Apparrently more people are getting worried about my always being cold. So we took my temperature. It is a whopping 95.2 degrees! That spurred me into action to really find out what is going on. Pray that everything will come to light.
For memory, I have been writing in my study journal. Yes it works, but not as good as I would like it. It is frustrating, but some things just don't work fast in me, unlike other things. Anyways, not much else is going on around here except for trying to find people. I just wish people would take us seriously and try to find people.
To the Kipfers. Thanks for the packages. I haven't opened them yet because I don't want them to be raided by 12 missionaries! I'll try to remember it in the next e-mail.
Love to all,
Elder Austin Waller
Week 37
May 4, 2009
Hey,
Yes, I am playing the flute. Sad thing though, it doesn't reach that high, but it still sounds really good. Just I am very limited to the time I can spend with it. *I thought it was quite funny when you called the mission office because right after I sent the e-mail, I was called by them. They thought it was a little funny as well. The bike? I just need to find a place to sell it. My knee is starting to give me problems every now and then just from walking. Lots of popping there. Not so fun! (*mom wrote - I had a question about a credit card charge that wasn't explained in Austin's e-mail and did not want to wait another week for the answer. I called the mission home and asked them to call him with my question. The secretary spoke with Austin and got back to me within 15 minutes with my answer. Great secretary.)
So dad was able to make everyone smile really big in the office huh? That is great! There are similar pranks pulled every now and then by other missionaries causing them to get up at say 2am. (mom wrote - Danny didn't play a prank but misread the clock, said goodbye to everyone, was in his car at the edge of the parking lot, when he realized it wasn't as late as he thought. He parked the car, came back into work - to eveyone's amusement.)
No, don't send the viola. I don't want it to get stolen. I am still trying to get back a hanger, a good one. It is making me anxious. Yesterday I actually woke up having a panic attack. Plus, the size would make it difficult to lug around. I wouldn't be able to play any music, though appropriate, either. Really, some of these things just tick me off. Let me think a little more before making the decision final.
I really don't like it that the day we get to call is a Sunday. SUNDAY IS OUR BUSIEST DAY! IT IS NOT A DAY OF REST! AGGGH! So a specific time is not capable of being given. We simply do not know our schedule for that day at all.
I have something else for Alec. Read D&C 88:123-126. This is the Doctrine of Preparation. If you do these things, you will be a very strong missionary at the get-go.
There is something I would ask you to do. I teach it to everyone. Just try it if you haven't been. Pray together in the morning, such as when you get out of bed. Pray together when you go to sleep. Before eating dinner, have a spiritual thought from the scriptures. Just those things will change your entire day. I am still trying to get that picture. Plus something else I felt inspired to get you.
It is funny how much you can learn. I am seeing a promise being fulfilled here on my mission. The more I learn about the gospel, the more I am blessed with knowledge about film and acting. It is crazy! I wish you well and wish I had more to report on. One more thing. I can't really look at schools right now, but the time is coming up where I need to start. Sadly true. Also, could you try to plan on picking me up at the end of this? I would like to spend time out here with you showing you around. Maybe Uncle Chuck would like to play golf?
Love,
Elder Austin Waller
Hey,
Yes, I am playing the flute. Sad thing though, it doesn't reach that high, but it still sounds really good. Just I am very limited to the time I can spend with it. *I thought it was quite funny when you called the mission office because right after I sent the e-mail, I was called by them. They thought it was a little funny as well. The bike? I just need to find a place to sell it. My knee is starting to give me problems every now and then just from walking. Lots of popping there. Not so fun! (*mom wrote - I had a question about a credit card charge that wasn't explained in Austin's e-mail and did not want to wait another week for the answer. I called the mission home and asked them to call him with my question. The secretary spoke with Austin and got back to me within 15 minutes with my answer. Great secretary.)
So dad was able to make everyone smile really big in the office huh? That is great! There are similar pranks pulled every now and then by other missionaries causing them to get up at say 2am. (mom wrote - Danny didn't play a prank but misread the clock, said goodbye to everyone, was in his car at the edge of the parking lot, when he realized it wasn't as late as he thought. He parked the car, came back into work - to eveyone's amusement.)
No, don't send the viola. I don't want it to get stolen. I am still trying to get back a hanger, a good one. It is making me anxious. Yesterday I actually woke up having a panic attack. Plus, the size would make it difficult to lug around. I wouldn't be able to play any music, though appropriate, either. Really, some of these things just tick me off. Let me think a little more before making the decision final.
I really don't like it that the day we get to call is a Sunday. SUNDAY IS OUR BUSIEST DAY! IT IS NOT A DAY OF REST! AGGGH! So a specific time is not capable of being given. We simply do not know our schedule for that day at all.
I have something else for Alec. Read D&C 88:123-126. This is the Doctrine of Preparation. If you do these things, you will be a very strong missionary at the get-go.
There is something I would ask you to do. I teach it to everyone. Just try it if you haven't been. Pray together in the morning, such as when you get out of bed. Pray together when you go to sleep. Before eating dinner, have a spiritual thought from the scriptures. Just those things will change your entire day. I am still trying to get that picture. Plus something else I felt inspired to get you.
It is funny how much you can learn. I am seeing a promise being fulfilled here on my mission. The more I learn about the gospel, the more I am blessed with knowledge about film and acting. It is crazy! I wish you well and wish I had more to report on. One more thing. I can't really look at schools right now, but the time is coming up where I need to start. Sadly true. Also, could you try to plan on picking me up at the end of this? I would like to spend time out here with you showing you around. Maybe Uncle Chuck would like to play golf?
Love,
Elder Austin Waller
Weeks 36
April 27, 2009
Hey,
Yeah, I met Uncle Mike's parents, or rather his mom. Talked with his dad on the phone. It is comforting to know that there is family in your area. They said if I ever needed anything, just call them. Have to stick to mission rules as much as possible, but if I ever did need anything, I will call.
A terabyte? I knew they had them out before, but they were expensive. So, did you get that or the 500GB. Apparently there are many flat screens out that are in the $300 range. To me, that is insane. When I left they were still going for $1000 or more! You want to know how much I have changed? Time is being spent how to utilize time in work and see satisfaction from that rather than time in fun and temporal satisfaction from that.
So Gran is alright? That is good. Shanna and Henry are getting married. I didn't doubt it for a second. Of course, here I am in the heart of Utah. Imagine that.....done imagining. I am sure that Bishop Carpenter will be able to find a job. Mosiah 2 promises that as long as you keep the commandments of God and go forth with a purpose of good works, you will be able to provide. Reading Nephi's story of the broken bow and building the ship might help.
Speaking of LONG, HOT DAYS. I am going to have many. Out of which, there will be much walking. Just not nearly as much humidity. Speaking of hot, I hear there is a bad fire in Myrtle Beach.
Happy Birthday Mom! It is tomorrow! Yay! I am assuming you want that painting? I will probably be able to get it somehow. I'll have to go to the Deseret Bookstore.
If there is anything I want right now, it is my viola. Could you send it to me? Just got the package now. The poker chip? Oh I just found it on the sidewalk and picked it up. Then I was given the tie. I just thought the two went together well. So I took it! Yes a photo was taken, but it wasn't very good. Plus, it is kinda hard to send photos right now...especially since there are no USB ports on the computer I am using! ARGH!
Now that I know when Mother's day is, I am panicking less. I will have to call you after all my meetings are done. So it will be 2 when you end at 4. All I can really say is...stay home. I have no idea with this schedule.
Talk to you soon!
Elder Austin Waller
Hey,
Yeah, I met Uncle Mike's parents, or rather his mom. Talked with his dad on the phone. It is comforting to know that there is family in your area. They said if I ever needed anything, just call them. Have to stick to mission rules as much as possible, but if I ever did need anything, I will call.
A terabyte? I knew they had them out before, but they were expensive. So, did you get that or the 500GB. Apparently there are many flat screens out that are in the $300 range. To me, that is insane. When I left they were still going for $1000 or more! You want to know how much I have changed? Time is being spent how to utilize time in work and see satisfaction from that rather than time in fun and temporal satisfaction from that.
So Gran is alright? That is good. Shanna and Henry are getting married. I didn't doubt it for a second. Of course, here I am in the heart of Utah. Imagine that.....done imagining. I am sure that Bishop Carpenter will be able to find a job. Mosiah 2 promises that as long as you keep the commandments of God and go forth with a purpose of good works, you will be able to provide. Reading Nephi's story of the broken bow and building the ship might help.
Speaking of LONG, HOT DAYS. I am going to have many. Out of which, there will be much walking. Just not nearly as much humidity. Speaking of hot, I hear there is a bad fire in Myrtle Beach.
Happy Birthday Mom! It is tomorrow! Yay! I am assuming you want that painting? I will probably be able to get it somehow. I'll have to go to the Deseret Bookstore.
If there is anything I want right now, it is my viola. Could you send it to me? Just got the package now. The poker chip? Oh I just found it on the sidewalk and picked it up. Then I was given the tie. I just thought the two went together well. So I took it! Yes a photo was taken, but it wasn't very good. Plus, it is kinda hard to send photos right now...especially since there are no USB ports on the computer I am using! ARGH!
Now that I know when Mother's day is, I am panicking less. I will have to call you after all my meetings are done. So it will be 2 when you end at 4. All I can really say is...stay home. I have no idea with this schedule.
Talk to you soon!
Elder Austin Waller
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)