Where Am I? How Did I Get Here? Where Am I Going?





Monday, July 7, 2014

 Dear Parents, Mom and Dad/Dad and Mom,

That is quite a bit of updates of what is going on. Well, it sounds like everything is extremely busy in some shape or form. I am happy to hear that the missionary work is moving forward in Lemoore. It has been a crazy week for us in different ways. I am happy to hear how Mom is doing. Glad things are going well for her. Keep it up! I feel bad for my poor dog. The Fourth of July always is a killer for her. Thank you for taking care of her thus far, especially to you Mom. I am glad that she is still alive.

Like I said, it has been a crazy week. We are moving forward in the work; well, at least, we are trying to get it to go forward. Monday, we stayed home and cleaned our apartment during P-Day. We had the funds to buy cleaner and we cleaned the bathroom and other places. I cleaned our vents that looked horrible. We learned that we need to get a filter for our air conditioner. And more recent, I have been putting pictures on the walls. I had another special nightmare on Sunday (refer back to White Oak). 
Tuesday, we knew that we were going to have problems getting around. We no longer have a GPS and we have maps at the apartment. The problem with our maps is that we cannot take them with us and they are hard to use for they have been plastered with maps. We decided to take some time to go to a gas station to get a map. After all, that is where maps of an area would be, right? NO. Not at all. We went to different gas stations and to CVS. Nobody had maps. We went to a bookstore; it had maps of everywhere, but Petersburg and Colonial Heights. We decided to go to the government for help. Well, we had no idea where city hall was, so we went to the courthouse. The courthouse led to city hall where we finally got a map for Colonial Heights. All in time for lunch. Well, seeing as we had one-fourth of our area, we ventured into Petersburg to obtain a map. We went to the library, then to city hall. Petersburg's City Hall did not have a map. They told us to go to the visitor center for a map. We parked near it, not realizing we were near it, and wandered around for a while, trying to find visitor's center. Finally, we went up to someone and asked. We went to it, where we were able to obtain a map. The people were highly excited to see us; they, unfortunately, do not get many people, it seems. We tried seeing a few people afterwards, but nobody was home. We headed to the Petersburg Apartment to pick up something for somebody. I decided to rummage around, seeing what was in the apartment. And, lo, I found maps. And they cover all of our area. It was a bit of a frustrating find, albeit good.

Wednesday, we had district meeting. Our district consists of us and another set of missionaries. We tried a few people in Petersburg, but realized we needed something in Colonial Heights. We got that and worked in Colonial Heights for the time until dinner. We went to the church in hopes of a missionary coordination meeting, but there was not coordination meeting. Instead, we were enlisted to help with somebody's Eagle Court of Honor. 

 Thursday, we had interviews. It was a bit funny. I had a nightmare where I had interviews with President and I got sent home for no reason. And I woke up that morning, it was my year mark and I realized I had interviews. So, it was an interesting nightmare to wake up from. I received my package that day. Thank you. It was fun and interesting. I loved the tie. Thank you. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was a fun interview. And we had fun at a member's house. These are the members that love to feed us. I am grateful for that. I got to know them a bit. The husband also likes the show Sherlock. He told me the third season was awesome. He also likes Avatar as well. My companion has seen some episodes of Avatar, which I was thoroughly sad about, but also glad that he too knows and likes it. 
 This is my friend Denice from Lemoore. She is receiving training at the Mexico City Missionary Training Center. She will come back to the states to serve in the New Mexico Albuquerque Mission.  She is a convert herself. She knew me from High School. Her mother is also a recent convert. So why give up 18 months of your life to do this. We do it because of the pure love of Christ and His saving grace. We also know that this church is true because of our testimonies through the Holy Spirit.
Friday, we were not invited anywhere. So, we worked. We worked during the day, trying to find less actives. Partially successful. We ate dinner at home and worked on the ward roster, also known as Project 2. I am trying to sort out the people in our area to different quadrants to make it easier to know where people are when we are in that area, instead of guessing. When it came to night, we turned off the lights and we used the glowsticks. Sad enough, there were hardly any fireworks at all that night. Nor the next. Nor any time before and after.  The glowsticks are and were great. The blue one was a light to itself. In fact, it woke me up at midnight seeing as it was so bright. I chucked it out of our room and did not fall asleep until two.

Saturday, we did more work, trying to contact people. Then, we had to clean the church. We were assigned that day. After cleaning, we headed over to the Petersburg apartment to get a drink. We were both exhausted. Sunday, we had church. We tried seeing some people and then headed home to work on the roster. I, feeling a bit tired, took a nap, hence I had one of those nightmares that I had once in White Oak. After waking up from that, I began decorating the house with pictures from the Ensign. Then, we had dinner with the members that often feed us and our investigator who is being baptized (now on 25th). We had a great time. We taught lesson 5, which was a first for me and first time teaching a lesson with my current companion. With the help of the members, it went smoothly. We went over the baptismal interview questions.

It has been one crazy week. I am happy that we are going forward, trying to be organized in our actions. I am happy that we are involved with the ward. I am happy that we are making efforts. I know that the Lord is aware of our actions.

All is well! We will go forward and onward!

Love,

Elder S. Todd

Nearing My One Year Mark



June 30, 2014



Dear Parents, Mom and Dad/Dad and Mom,

I am in a state of utter disbelief. This is the very week. The week. You are indeed right. It was only a year ago that I left to Utah to the Missionary Training Center and then to Virginia. Now, it is a year left. I have to be honest. It doesn't make me happy. But, I will get to that.

I have been out more than Elder Avison by two transfers. Elder Avison is a wonderful, perfectly honest person. He bluntly states it as it is. It is a strength. I do believe that I will have a major growth with him. He is just as silent as I am and he does not smile as much. And it is just Elder Avison and I now. Elder Brown is gone; he has officially gone home. It is sad to see him go.

With Elder Brown leaving, he had a lot of things to take care of. I mean, he joined the Navy and has been trying to figure out ways to come back out here. (He had enlisted here, which means he will have to be in Virginia. His parents have yet to know about this plan of his.) It is the right decision for him (many blessings have been bestowed upon him). However, this week has been mostly bad. It is not entirely his fault, nor is it really his; it is just that he had a lot of things to take care of that took up the entire week. This coming week should be and is planned to be a week where we reestablish the work and contact with investigators.

With the Appomattox Ward, we cover Petersburg, Colonial Heights, and, the majority of our area, Dinwiddie County. With a budget of 950 miles, we cannot go far. Although this month, we currently have gone 112 miles over. I have a defense prepared in case of lectures arising. We are stationed at the Colonial Heights apartment, albeit we can transfer back and forth to the Petersburg Apartment. Only problem is that we have people to see in both areas and schedules and people do not mix. The idea of using the Petersburg Apartment is a great one, but is difficult to implement. We are limited to 20 miles per day and it is extremely hard to keep to that. There are certain difficulties. Tracting has to be done with caution; there are "safe" areas. Some finding has been done by going to the local mall by previous missionaries, but I automatically veto that idea. We do have an investigator there, but it is extremely difficult in my case to feel the Spirit. My brain goes for stimulation; noise, sound, pictures, and all of that just distracts me. There is a reason why I like quiet time, because otherwise, I would be terribly exhausted. There are issues arising, but as of now, it feels as though we are rebooting the area. We have been delayed a bit, but the work will go forward. I am happy to work here, because there are opportunities that are coming about.

Monday, it was a day of fulfilling tasks that needed to be done. At this time, we still had three. We were able to see a less active that day and help him out a bit. He is currently bedridden. 

Tuesday, we had lunch with a member. This member used to be in the Powhatan Ward. It was really fun talking about the people back in Powhatan. What I love about this ward is that I am close to Powhatan in boundaries and in certain members. We helped this member with fixing up his trailer's bathroom. (Yes, he lives in a trailer, but it is an awesome trailer.) We had dinner with a member that night as well. It was overfilling. That member gave us a personality test, which for me, hit it on the head. It was a "How Others See you" Personality Test. My result was, "Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful, and practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expect the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is broken." I have known this about myself and I know that this test really hit in the head. I remember taking another personality test for one of my psychology classes and talked about my having a martyr complex. It was pretty interesting to see that correlate with this test. After dinner, we talked with our investigator and we helped answer one of her questions.

Wednesday, I met the ward mission leader. I have no idea who the ward missionaries are as of yet and with all areas, nobody, but the ward mission leader and us show up for our meeting. Usually, we have correlation on Wednesdays, but this was not a correlation. I have been warned about our ward mission leader. So, when he asked where I came from, I actually surprised him by saying, "God." He thought I would say the prophet or my hometown. If I had said my hometown, I would have been lectured. I do not come from places. I reside in places. So, when he asked me where my parents resided, I told him, "Lemoore, California." Pretty much, I have to word my words carefully. Then after an introduction of myself, I was compelled by my companions to show my scriptures. The ward mission leader likes that I know my Bible. I am not so sure if that is a good thing with him. I feel like I am going to be toyed with and that is never fun. After that, he proceeded to explain about the Creation and his thoughts. After a while, my head started hurting. We tried talking about our people, but he wanted to talk about the Creation. We had an appointment afterwards with some members, which the ward mission leader attended with us. It was mainly for Elder Brown and his decision to join the Navy. I felt bad for him, because he barely got to speak and plead his case. After that session, the ward mission leader asked if there were any questions relating to the gospel. We got asked about the woman and the priesthood, specifically with the woman who got excommunicated. (We have been hearing all about it these couple days.) I was excited to finally be able to speak, but the ward mission leader continued to speak and helped explain it. All patience that I thought I had went out the window. I realized I am happy with speaking just a bit to put my two cents in, but when I am constantly trying to interrupt to say my part (seeing as he just kept on talking), it is frustrating. One thing I have always been sick of is people talking for me. I understand that I do not speak much, but I do say words and I am very careful of what I say. Mind you, I did not snap then, nor did I snap at all. I was just a bit frustrated afterwards.

Thursday, we stopped by a member's house. I believe we had dinner with them. But, they like to feed us on a regular basis, such as every Sunday if at all possible. They are an interesting family. 

Friday, we learned of new missionary changes. We now have to teach lesson 5, we are in charge of reteaching the lessons after baptism, and so on. I was quite surprised. We also had zone meeting, but a member needed help with moving. We simply asked and they let us go. The other two were so shocked; meanwhile, I was simply amazed at the new changes that were happening. So, we helped the member move and it was a nice good bye for them. 

Saturday, it was more things that needed to be done. 

Sunday, Elder Brown said his final good byes. I taught gospel principles. I felt like I did horrible. I had this spectacular idea that just went south. Of course, this idea was based on the amount of people, which I judged would be a lot based on the previous Sunday. As always, expect sudden changes. So, I slowly plowed through that hour, going off the top of my head on the chapter I assigned myself. Our investigator showed up that day. She has been investigating for a while and has had help from the members who recently moved. She has made decisions in her life that relate to the Church. Even more, she told the three of us she wants to be baptized after realizing the Book of Mormon is true. We do not have an official date, but she has plans. She wants the member who just moved to be there, because she promised that she would. Details are pending on that.
And so, I said good-bye to Elder Brown. It was fun. We have had similar mission experiences and similar family situations (of sorts). It was fun while it lasted. Elder Avison and I had a fun last week scaring him by jumping out of closets with metal doors. I tried duct-taping the bathroom door shut while he was in there to another door. The idea lasted until he was able to rip it open. It took a while and was mildly successful. I also scared Elder Avison by hiding behind a couch. I am going to have fun with Elder Avison, because just the way he is makes me laugh. I have not laughed in a very long time.

Now, I present to you, my summary of the year. This is my year in review. I am not really counting the MTC for much. While there were great moments, not much happened. The only big thing was our practice person who was an actual investigator and trying to figure out ways to actually help her progress. I loved White Oak and Fredericksburg. It is very historical, plus it is my first area. There were a lot of wonderful people. There were lots of good times and bad times. I look as it now as the Lord purging me; my faith grew in the light of Him. My testimony grew. I was ready to move forward with life. By the time I left, I helped see some miracles and build the area to suitable stance. I was able to see one person be baptized, but as I have now seen with another person that I taught, I will never know the effect that I have had on people's lives. I loved the people of Prince William and Woodbridge; the condensed nature and city of Woodbridge, I am not much of a fan. After growing faith and being purged, I learned to hold fast. Whether it was being on bike, dealing with the bike, or dealing with people constantly dropping us, I learned to endure. I am glad to see how much I was able to make it go forward. I heard of miracles happening after I left, but not much else after that report. I loved Powhatan. It was consistency of White Oak, only more country and spread out. It progressed nicely as well; I have of yet no report. I helped build these areas and leave my mark. The Lord's work has moved forward and I am happy to serve. I have grown so much and it has been only a year. I remember thinking that I would be on vacation here without the stress of school. No, the Lord has other plans and I have been more stressed, more exhausted, and more happy, all with the miracle of not having burnout. (Funny thing is, I had nightmares where I was behind on schoolwork and I wake up, thinking I have to catch up.) I have no idea what is going to occur this last year. It sucks that it is my last year; the reality is, it is. I would honestly love to stay. I know less of my immediate future than I do of the future. Whatever the case, I know that this year I need to build confidence. I am looking ahead instead of looking behind. I have finally forgiven myself of so many things. Now is the time to build confidence in myself and my decisions. Now is the time to prepare for my future. If anything at all, I have to prepare. I have received promptings and it is made obvious by God, especially seeing as I was with the process of Elder Brown's last moments in the field.

All is well!

Love,
Elder S. Todd

Believe You Can Bring Change



June 23, 2014

Dear Parents, Mom and Dad/Dad and Mom,
I definitely expected the call from the former bishop (my parents received a call). I could not recall whether or not the current bishop of Powhatan was going to do something. But, I am glad that they did something and that you asked to be informed about our special investigator. 




 I am in the Appomattox Ward, which does indeed cover Petersburg, Colonial Heights, and other surrounding areas. The unfortunate thing is that we are confined to the two city limits, while the rest of the ward expands beyond that, due to the mileage limitations of 950. Yes, there are the poorer neighborhoods here. (I will not use the slang term, "ghettos," for Mrs. Salgado and for an avoidance of slang.) I know about my bike and other safety tips. Luckily, I am in a car. Speaking of safety tips, I am so excited. I get to train in the next district meeting about the section in the Missionary Handbook called "Physical and Temporal Well-Being." That includes my favorite subject of health and safety. I have plans on doing what I did for my Ted Bundy presentation and fake an injury.

My new address is (address withheld), Colonial Heights, VA 23834-1688. (There are two apartments and this is our mainstay.)  I got it off a box that was left in the apartment and it correlates with the apartment. I would not call this place a safe place to drop off packages. I have been wondering what to do for packages. I could (one) talk to the bishop or (two) have the UPS require a signature. The second option is what occurred in Powhatan. Whenever I had a package, they asked for a signature. But, that option can be rather difficult due to life as a missionary on the go.

I am now in this new area. Monday was filled with good byes. It is sad to leave an area and I actually felt like I was starting to get attached. A lot of things were happening and it felt like things were starting to build up. This is a cause of reflection for me. White Oak, I spent in six months. Prince William, three months, which is the same for Powhatan. I really do feel that I have helped build those areas. I put in my area a lot of effort and new ideas. I feel the Spirit confirms to me that is true. Things are now progressing in those areas. I heard in Prince William that one of our investigators actually came to church. Things were starting to happen when they otherwise seemed they would not. It is amazing to me that there is so much that has been going on since I left. I cannot imagine what will happen next.


Tuesday, we had breakfast with the bishop. It was the second to last goodbye (the last belonging to the driver). We get to transfers and I learn that I am going to Appomattox with Elder Avison and Elder Brown. Yes, to my own surprise, I am in a trio. Elder Brown is going home in a week from today (his schedule is off for he once was a Washington D.C. South missionary). It is hard being in trio. As much as I love my companions, one seems to dominate in taking charge and other tasks while the other follows and relies. Pretty much, I feel that I have to wait a week before putting in energy. Why? Well, this week was not the best, because not much happened. I have not a clue what is going on. Elder Brown is going home, so he is taking care a lot of things to prepare for his upcoming future. With that, we are pretty much stuck in helping him and also doing work. We cannot split up; we have to be in sight and sound of each other. Mind you, I am not complaining. There is a blessing in what may seem utter frustration. I am observing what is going on and coming up with ideas that can help this area. Not much is happening and the one that relies on others just goes and hopes that things work out. 
Elder Avison is a very dry humor person, who is very blunt. He puts it out there. My task for the transfers ahead with him are to smile. He does not smile and people often wonder what is wrong. Elder Brown is a humorous person as well. I cannot say much else, but he is planning to go into the Navy. 

Tuesday and Wednesday, Elder Brown went to the mission home to go to the temple. Meanwhile, I was Elder Avison and he introduced me to the area and some people. I got to see how he works. I find it important to find his strengths and utilize them. (The more I think about this, I feel like I am scheming, which makes me feel awful. But, I feel tested by the Lord and I am not trying to be full of pride. I am trying to figure out how to make this companionship go forward to help benefit the area.) Tuesday, I met a couple of members and a recent convert. Wednesday, I went to a less active and ended up meeting somebody else along with the person we were trying to see. That person, too, is a member. That member turned our visit into a game show, or so it felt. He asked me these different questions, such as "Who baptized John the Baptist," "What is the meaning of the seven stars and the seven golden candlesticks as spoken in Revelation," "What is the name of the woman at the well," etc. By attempting to answer his questions (I got the second question correct and I was the first of many to get it correct), it showed to the less active and this member that I love to learn. The member was happy that I smiled. We tried to see more people after that visit, had lunch, and saw another less active. It was quite fun to meet that less active, who is sick and cannot come due to illness. Racoons were chattering in his chimney. Dinner forgot about us and, because there was no food in the vacant (yet rented) apartment, all we ate was a spoonful of peanut butter. (Returning to the main apartment later, we ate dinner and, even later, realized there is actual food in the mainstay apartment.) We were going to have correlation, but the ward mission leader did not show up. He has not been showing up for quite a while, apparently. I have been warned about him, too. If he asks me where I am from, the correct answer would be God. If he asks me where I was born, the correct answer would be from my mother.

Thursday, I attended my first funeral on the mission. A member who had been sick had died before I arrived. We had other tasks that we needed to take care of afterward. 

Friday and Saturday, we took care of certain tasks that needed to be done. We tried to visit some people. One person, as we found out, was in the hospital and took an adventure to the hospital. We checked up on that person and made sure he was good. We gave him a blessing. 

Sunday, I was amazed. Imagine this: a sacrament meeting that is actually quiet. Usually, you have the occasional cries from kids. Not this time. It was quiet, though one kid ended up crying. You could actually hear the quiet and the person speaking. I paid no attention to it and then, the thought occurred, It is quiet here. It was perhaps the strangest thing. We again checked up on the person in the hospital. We checked up on a lady who is in a very bad situation. I hate doing nothing, but there is nothing that we can do. She recognizes that. Bless her heart.

Here I am, Monday. Energized, but tired. I am excited for the upcoming future. I have ideas, but I still have observations to make. I do plead for a letter soon. We are in a library- while, yes, nice- that does not like missionaries too much. There is a new library in Petersburg that requires a letter as proof of residence in this area. I sent a letter to Sean, because (one) I had to wish Sawyer a happy birthday for I was unable to get a card in time, (two) thank them for the picture of Reagan, (three) respond to their question, and (four) ask for a letter. I am going to have loads of fun in Appomattox.
All is well!
Love,
Elder S. Todd



And Who Shall Say It Was Not A Miracle?

These letters stand for the Hebrew phrase, Nes Gadol Haya Sham– which means “A great miracle happened there.” - http://toriavey.com/

You can become blind by seeing each day as a similar one. Each day is a different one, each day brings a miracle of its own. It's just a matter of paying attention to this miracle.
Paulo Coelho

Monday, June 16, 2014

Dear Parents, Mom and Dad/Dad and Mom,

Do you believe in miracles? There can be miracles if only you believe. 

What a week! There is so much to update. Mom's hair almost looks pink. It is definitely a new hairstyle. I hope Dad enjoyed a wonderful Father's Day. I am glad you enjoyed my note, Dad! I received your letters this week. It was good to read them! I loved the jokes; I thought they were hilarious. 

This week was chalk full of miracles and craziness. Starting with Monday. I want to reiterate the fact that our special investigator was not home for the appointment we had set up for last week. As her family claims, "She got upset and went to a friend's house." We have been praying for her, hoping that she is alright. So, we had a normal P-day (preparation day), playing Chess and Clue. I love Clue, but that is besides the point. We had those board games in the apartment. Miracle #1: A person who is active, but had no job, obtained a job last week. It was perfect for him! Small little miracle. He has been out of work and his situation has been iffy. I am thankful that he got a job. That was a small miracle. 

Tuesday. We enjoyed working at one of the less actives. We cooked lunch with them and had a great time. We do a lot for them in trying to help them stay attached to the gospel. We later went to contact a referral we received from other missionaries. The referral was a woman. She had requested for a blessing through her nephew. This woman has terminal cancer. I was the one that had to give the blessing. It was hard, but I put my faith out there. May God bless her and all those who are going and have gone through cancer. 

Wednesday. We decided to go see our special investigator to see if she is home. Nobody was home. Disappointed, we went home and had an early lunch. Miracle #2: This stretches back to Sunday. Our special investigator came home from church; the member that took her to church gave our special investigator her phone number. Our special investigator kept it. She has been having family issues, where her family has been leeching off of her. They fight a lot and she is tired of it. Well, Sunday after church, her family had another fight. Our special investigator threatened to call the cops. They did not like that, so they took away the phones and, essentially, made her prisoner in her own home. What does our special investigator do? Oh, just wakes up at midnight, sneaks out of her home, goes to the road (which is 0.2 miles from the house), and hitchhikes to a friend's house. Yeah, she ran away from her family at midnight, which explains Monday. Wednesday, she got into phone contact, called the member, and the member called us. We talked to our special investigator and set up an appointment. Prayers were indeed answered and we had nice appointment with her and her friend. 


But, this is not at all. Just you wait. Miracle #3: We have a section of the area that we never go to due to mileage limitations. It would kill us for the month. The ward mission leader, on Sunday, told us that he would like to take us to Amelia, that section that is hardly touched, to find three less actives. I prayed for Wednesday to be a miracle day and that we would see the less actives, all of them. Prayers are indeed answered. Not only did we get to see our special investigator (which was a major surprise), we saw all three less actives and a referral in Amelia. One less active had Parkinson's and was not too interested. Another had some contact with the Church and does not mind us stopping by. The last less active was nuts. Crazy. Proud Southerner and made it obvious that he was a bit racist. He had a wall of death, meaning he had dead animal heads on a wall. He did not mind us coming back to him again. And we talked to the referral a bit. A follow-up contact will be best.

Thursday. My companion had received notice that he would be receiving a package. He is, I say this jokingly, a creeper. So, we were headed home to eat lunch, when he saw the UPS truck and pulled off the road. He wanted to make sure that the truck was coming our way, which he did. If it did not, he would have followed the truck until it stopped. The truck stops somewhere before our house and we just go home. My companion stood outside, while I went in, to watch to make sure we were not missed. Eventually, he went in. To make it even more awkward, when the UPS man did come to our door, he instantly recognized my companion and said, "Oh, I was wondering why you were staring at me." 

Miracle #4: Remember also last week about how I told you of car accidents that have occurred here? Remember the person who was T-boned? Yeah, he is another miracle this week. Two weeks ago now (last week, it was only a week after the crash), he got hit as he was turning out into an intersection by somebody going 60 miles per hour and was helicoptered to the hospital. He had a broken neck and back and a huge cut on his head. The driver of the other car received only cuts and bruises while the passenger received a broken thumb. Well, on Thursday, he was up and moving. He was moving fast, even with a broken neck and back. He still had a neck brace on. Even more, he was cleared to go to work! The doctor, who saw him in the emergency room, was astonished and could not believe what had occurred. The doctor kept on uttering, "There is no way."

Friday. Miracle #5: This day we went out with one of the youth. We had received a referral from the office just that morning. We figure we should go see that person and we did. She was a person who also had terminal cancer. She has, I believe, breast cancer that is stage 4, grade 3, and triple negative. This cancer feeds off of her. This woman was impressed that we showed up so quickly, because she only talked to her friend in Richmond, only that morning. This woman was happy as can be and relies on God. Even more, she is taking no pain medicine nor any antidepressants. If she does, she would die. She could have an adverse reaction to radiation. And she, while in pain, is happy. She was concerned for her husband, because her husband is trying to do everything from work to helping her to taking care of the house. We offered to help. This woman also had a card that she received from a non-member youth during a Relay for Life. It really touched her; our youth knew the person who signed the card. This woman and the connections we could make was a miracle.

Saturday. We had a ward picnic at a lake. It was nice to be with the people. My companion made cookies. I really enjoyed my time. I loved it. People swam in the lake and we just played games. We talked with the people and it was the best time ever. 

As much as this next event did not seem like a miracle, I am still referring to it as a miracle. It is obvious as bad as it is that I was meant to be here. Miracle #6: Friday, we received a call from our special investigator, saying she needed help with moving some stuff. At the picnic, we got some help. Our special investigator needed some things out of her house. We arrive at her house (she and her friend were in the driveway) with the member driving behind us. A policeman comes up and escorts us up the driveway. The police are involved with her situation. We get out of the car and we need to get inside. The front door is locked and the key does not work. Any doors into the main part of the house are locked. We open one of the garage doors (there are two) that was unlocked and I, due to it being a small space, crawl in. I open the main garage door and then we tried another side door. It too is locked. The policeman is watching us and giving us occasional tips. The member ended up taking off one of the storm windows by the front room and opening up the window. The member removed glass items and called me over. Another small space for a small person to crawl through. I crawl into the home and open the doors for them. The police entered, making sure nobody was home. Thankfully, nobody was. The policeman left, seeing as there was nothing left for him to do. Our special investigator's bedroom was locked. Using an old library card of mine, we broke in. (On a side note, perhaps I should learn lock picking skills.) Our special investigator needed some papers for court to be rid of her family. She, by the grace of God, was able to find them.



 Still on Saturday. We ate dinner and went to a less active's home. There we got the call. I handed the phone to Elder Clifford, because he felt that he was leaving. He is indeed leaving. Without hanging up, he hands the phone to me. I, too, am being transferred out of Powhatan. Off to a new destination. So, it is a bit of headache, trying to leave a thousand notes about this area. Sunday. We sang Take Time To Be Holy, accompanied by the member who got the perfect job. He is such a wonderful pianist and I felt so privileged to sing that song. It was his first song that he accompanied someone to and that was his mother. We both bore our testimonies. The rest of the day was filled of saying good bye to people. It sucks, because I was starting to get attached to these people and, much more, it is hard saying good bye to people. But, I must move on. And today, we have said good bye to people and had zone P-day. I did not do much, because I incidentally had most of my clothes already packed from the previous transfer and never felt inclined to unpack them.
President Wilson, or rather the Lord, likes patterns. Elder Clifford, Elder Frank, and Elder Longman all have a common thread to them and that is one companion. My chances are that I will receive that companion or a companion of his. Also, I figured I might be gone. There is one missionary that whenever he comes along, I end up leaving. He is my curse, in a sense. Who knows where I will be.

That is the wonderful, miraculous, and crazy week I had. Perhaps I should not have been involved with our special investigator's issues, but she has no one and I was needed.
All is well! 
Love,

Elder S. Todd


When Strangers Help


Monday, June 9, 2014

Dear Parents, Mom and Dad/Dad and Mom,
A bit of a humorous email you have sent. You should send a picture of Mom's new hair! I would totally love to see it! As much as what occurred is bad, it makes for an interesting story. And geez! What happened exactly to Dad's car? (a giant farm forklift backed into his car at a stop sign) Is it still drive-able? Did the kid not see? That is a crazy story! Oh man! It sounds like it has been quite a week! It has been a week over here as well, particularly the weekend!
Monday, not much happened after emailing and that fabulous lesson we had with our special investigator. I was feeling a bit sick myself, but I felt better by the next day.
Tuesday, we worked at the food bank and it was fun. I love working at the food bank. I love interfaith work. We cleaned our car as well that day. We helped an elderly British woman who was very nice. She is a potential and we attempted to talk about religion. She avoids it with us. And she loves to feed us and give us food that is near expiration date. She does not like any food wasted. Any food. 


Wednesday, we had zone conference from nine to about 6. It was in reality nine to four, but President wanted to talk to me after. I had emailed President about someone I am concerned about and, two, a summarized version about some of the paragraphs I wrote to you. So, he asked me about how I was doing and if there was anything he could do. I told him what I felt and briefly what I know to be true. Zone conference was interesting. It went over the case study that we had recently had to read. We talked about family history as well. President also addressed key indicators and their purpose.


Thursday, we helped the bishop with a few people. I got the chance to talk with him. He asked me about my interests, which we had discussed before. What did we ended up talking about? Forensic science and serial killers. The bishop watches Forensic Files to get to sleep. After helping him and eating lunch, we did some cleaning that needed to be done. We had little space in between when we got done with bishop and dinner. One of our investigators that has been sick over the past two transfers I have been in Powhatan was there. She requested a blessing, so we taught her and gave her blessing. She was really thankful.

Friday, we planned, helped somebody's yard (a less active), and got to see our knee replacement less active who is now home. He wants to improve so bad and wants to walk. He wants to walk to the podium and bear his own testimony of everything. We had dinner with one of the members. The wife, who, mind you, is pregnant, told us that she went over to our special investigator's place (the day before the service project that we had organized) and cut some of the grass. She told us what challenges would probably await us.
Saturday was the big day. We had organized a service project for our special investigator at nine. We made sure it happened and it happened. 20 people showed up; we had four riding lawnmowers (one was our investigator's), five weed eaters, and several different tools. She was so impressed and filled with joy. As she told us, "This blows my mind out of proportion!" In two hours, we cut five acres of grass that had grown from a size varying from 1 and a half to three feet tall, weeded, cut down bushes, and took care of the overgrowth. The yard looked absolutely beautiful. She was so thankful. Afterward, we talked about church and she was happy to go. Her great-granddaughters came out and helped a bit. Oh, and by the way, I am pretty sure if you look in the dictionary and look at the word awkward, you will see a picture of two LDS missionaries. One of the great-granddaughters, after signing her service project hours, wanted to give us a hug. I was in front of my companion. Time slowed, my mind went blank. All I could do was put out my hand and say, "Handshake?" It was the most awkward thing ever and my companion backed me up and explained that we were missionaries. He was happy it was not him that went through that awkward moment.

Also, on Saturday, an old investigator that I had taught in Fredericksburg was baptized. Last I knew, he was not willing to give up coffee and be baptized. I heard that he had a change of heart. Oh, how I tried to get up there, but I did not. As sad as it was, I really did try, but I found out at the last minute. I obtained permission and I was calling people in hope on Saturday morning of going without rhyme or reason. That went out of my comfort zone, instilled confidence, and made me learn from the Lord. It just seems to me that the Lord puts me in the most stressful situations to let me learn. Well, I definitely got a big confidence boost, despite it not turning out. But, I did call and wish him a wonderful baptism and congratulations.
Sunday, we had church as always. Best church meeting ever. We had ward council in the morning. Remember how I told you of the bishop's conversation with me? Well, he has a book for me to read. Of course, when he had walked into the room for ward council, he goes up to me first. He does not shake anyone's hands first, but just goes to me. He tells me the name of a book of which he recommends for me. As funny as it was, one person asked how that related to missionary work, to which the bishop told them my interests. (By the way, if you still have my bookmarks, I would be more than happy if you could bookmark this book for me. Yes, I have a bookmark for books; I use it as a way to note what books I love to read. What I do is go on Barnes and Nobles, look up the book, click on the link, and bookmark it. Like I said, it is a way to make a list of books I would like to read without losing that list. It is called "Gangland" by Howard Blum.)

Our special investigator came to church and loved it. The talks were excellent; the hymns were perfect. She loves "The Spirit of God," hymn number 2. Absolutely, beautiful. Sunday school, we taught the Plan of Salvation and all she said, "I am pondering about it." We taught the young men and talked of the Book of Mormon. We did it the way Elder Bednar did in our meeting with him. It went excellent. After that, we said goodbye to our investigator. The Relief Society sisters came up to us and told us she bore her testimony. She talked of how thankful she is for the service project. She told that she only met with us twice and we set up a project for her and complete strangers took time to help another complete stranger. She was astonished. The whole ward loves her and is excited for her.

The rest of Sunday flew by as well. We saw our two car accident people. Yes, two people this week got in car accidents and I now can add Dad on that list, making it three. One person got rear ended by a person going 40 miles per hour and is thankfully okay. His car is totaled and it just added for more of a bad week after losing his dog. The other person was coming out of a intersection, thinking it was clear, and got t-boned on the driver's side. He was flown to the hospital by helicopter. He has a broken neck and broken back. Thankfully, he is alive. And the other people, too. One person got cuts and the other person broke their thumb. Today, we set up for an appointment with our special investigator, but that fell through. She has been having issues with her family.

It has been a week for both of us. It has been crazy. I cannot believe how fast it went, though. Lots of stuff has occurred. A few more thoughts. I am nearing the end of the New Testament, which has been sad. It is reading a really good book and you know what happens. I started 1 Peter and it is beautiful. I am ever more sure that an apostasy from the early church did occur. As I have been nearing the end, there is a lot of warning to the saints in those days about those who have departed from the truth. Reading it in order definitely shows that.

Despite not being able to go to that baptism, I am still happy. It is good to see, despite how much it does not seem to pay off, how it does indeed pay off in time. I am excited for his journey in life. God speed to him.

I think the hardest lessons that I have learned so far is learning when I cannot help. I love to help people, but there are times when you cannot help. It hurts me, but I have to do what is best for that person. This Saturday is transfer calls. Who knows what will happen.
Love,
Elder S. Todd

P.S. Thank you to our 87 year old "special investigator" for letting us serve you as we serve the Lord.

To Serve God Is To Serve Others

Monday, June 2, 2014

 Dear Parents, Mom and Dad/Dad and Mom,

 I am glad to hear about my dog. She was skinny that last I saw her. Then again, when is she not skinny? 

 This week has been off. It has been odd. 

 Tuesday was P-Day. We helped somebody that day after we had taken care of our other matters. I helped stack wood while my companion helped cut wood. We did that until it rained and dinner was ready. That person fed us; they are wonderful members. 

 Wednesday, we helped this potential investigator with her yard. It has hot outside, which caused a mild headache. She fed us dinner and then we had to pick up another dinner. (Somebody had signed up and we were lucky that it is a pick up meal.) Zone leaders from another zone came by our area to help us go tract. I went one way and my companion went another. I had found a girl who is 12 and has read the entire Bible. It was crazy, so we gave her a Book of Mormon. By 8:00, a storm had reached our area. Dust was cast in my eyes and I was sneezing. End of tracting. My eyes were burning, my headache increased, and it was hard to function. So, we went to the apartment (the zone leader and I) and I broke in. I took care of my allergies and headache and went out again. So, as stupid as it was, we were tracting out in the rain without jackets. It was down pouring, lots of lightning that illuminated where we were. It was awesome and beautiful. We found some potential people.


Thursday, we had an excellent lesson with our special investigator. We had a member that told her about Welfare Square and the Bishop's Storehouse (a Bishop's Storehouse is usually a warehouse full of food and other goods which can be obtained by meeting with the pastor and his female counterpart called a Relief Society president of a congregation. They help go over the needs of a member who can go to the storehouse to obtain needed items.) over in Chesterfield. She marveled at that. Our special investigator is going through some rough moments in her life, but the Spirit was able to give her comfort while we were there. She did not go to church this week. Our special investigator was really happy that we were there. 

 In addition to visiting this wonderful person, we had a wonderful dinner with this member couple and another member. The other member was a psychologist and is a wonderful man. We talked a bit and I told him what field I would like to get into. Well, Virginia is a bit slow at recognizing my field as a specialty; perhaps some day. And this man knows French. So, guess what? He read Victor Hugo's book, Les Miserables, in French. My face lit up, because I found another person like me who has read Les Miserables and likes it. And the wife of the couple asked me, "You like Les Miserables? Not as much as me."

 Friday, we had a meeting. Not much else happened that day, but I did receive good news that day. 

 Saturday, I have no clue what occurred that day. Must not be that important. 

 Sunday, it was good. We had wonderful church meetings.  Now, I am more focused on other people. Such as another person who frequently comes, but is evidently apostatizing. As I have focused on that person and his needs, I am ready to face him again and help stem his issues. 
Today, Monday, June 2, we had another lesson with our special investigator, hence why I am writing so late. She told us that she wanted to come to church and told us she felt after we had left the previous time that she needed to go to church. She is so wonderful. And her yard needs help, so rather than have us do it, we are involving the whole ward (congregation) to help cut her lawn. And we asked on Sunday and they are totally willing to go out and help. And that is going to occur on Saturday this week.

 So, it was a good week. As odd as it was. The Lord will take care of things. I am sure of it. I love you.

 All is well.

 Love,

 Elder S. Todd



Got Eye Drops?


Monday, May 27, 2014

Dear Parents, Mom and Dad/Dad and Mom,

We just got done with lunch. We had helped with the food bank today which was slow, awfully slow. And this Tuesday P-day made life a bit interesting. We had the food bank and another service project.

With a new person in the house (his parents are renting his bedroom for a while), it will take time to get adjusted. Lots of time; patience will be what will carry you.

It sounds like you have had fun with Sean (his older brother). Reagan (his niece) looks taller. They are all getting older. Thank you for the packages. I was not expecting much, but I got a lot. We nearly got something for one of us each day of the week. It was really nice and I appreciated it.

Thank you for giving my congratulations (to the graduating class of his former high school, Lemoore, Middle College High School). It was quite nice. Keep up the work, Dad. The reason I say that is I know you are doing well.

I have no idea why we do not have tablets or how they will be used, but some day, maybe. I am not too concerned. One companion I had has a case already. I am not overly anxious.

It has yet to storm today. It has been sunny. We had a tornado warning and it was sunny. But in other places, I believe, a tornado did hit. Oh, and an earthquake hit. It was a small one, a 3.2. A very small one, according to this Californian. I did not feel it for I was on exchanges in Midlothian when it occurred. It was my companion's first earthquake and apparently, it shook our whole entire building. 

Monday, it was zone P-day  (preparation day). I tried to get into it, but it just was not the same. Regardless, I did have a bit of a good time. Not much else happened that day other than we had a great dinner with a member.



Tuesday, it was another day at the food bank. It was a bit more than we had today. We stopped by our blind less active and nothing really happened there. We went out with one of the priests and saw a few people. We saw one investigator who we cannot otherwise stop by (single female) and she does not remember much from last time. She just wanted to talk. We had dinner with this one young family. There was something that the wife said that I just wanted to help, but nothing really formulated in the way of an idea until Wednesday. We went to another of our less actives and taught her the scriptures.

Wednesday, we had another district meeting and I went to Midlothian for the day. I was with the district leader and we went out and saw a recent convert. It was hard to stay awake. We went tracting and had fun with this one person who asked us different questions. We tried a few potentials and was able to meet with one. That person stayed silent until the end. I ended up talking a lot, which was odd. I had not realized that until now. I never talk as much as I did. At a member's house for dinner, we talked with them. It just hit me like a load of bricks. I realized what I could do for the member that I talked to on Tuesday. And the rest of the night, I was with the district leader and the ward (congregation) mission leader for Midlothian while they had their ward correlation meeting.

Thursday, we saw our 87 year old investigator. She is a really neat person who has accomplished much. She could open doors when and if she gets baptized. It is a really big, yet tender situation and I am trying to not let it get too big in my head. All I will say is that Thursday, she was ready to drop us. She felt overwhelmed by the Book of Mormon, but while being there, she felt the Spirit. She opened up. She wanted to continue to meet with us. She told us some of her life stories. We really did not say much. The Spirit is really strong around her and is working hard with her. There is no denying that. She was quite grateful that we were patient, gentle, and understanding with her. She was glad we listened. We were there for three hours on her porch. The rest of Thursday, not much else happened. We contacted several people who we had previously had trouble contacting, except for one, our investigator of whom is still smoking (if he would allow them they have a successful program for quiting smoking) and is avoiding us.

Friday, a member couple took us out for lunch. It was a lot of fun. We talked with one of our investigators that day as well. She likes her church community, but she likes us. Not much happened, because she and I were not big friends with Mr. Wasp who kept on flying around us. My companion could care less. We tracted that day and tried to see other people. Not much luck.

Saturday, we helped with somebody's yard. I used a weed eater to cut a big section of their grass. We tracted with the district leader and his companion. We found a lot of potentials. It was good, except everybody was cutting their grass that day. And after dinner, we helped cut somebody's grass, our less active who we teach scriptures. Saturday could also be called allergy day. My right eye itched and I was sneezing. I was glad to have eye drops and after doing it so many times.  (I still hate eye drops, yet I can tolerate them now.)

Sunday, after church, we had a linger longer. It was a lot of fun. We stopped by and talked to the former bishop to give his mother the sacrament. Then, we had dinner.

Monday, we helped with another yard and this for the ward organist who cannot do much unless he wants to get shocked by his heart defibrillator again. And again, we helped the less active who we teach the scriptures. Her sliding glass door shattered. Lots of glass that had to be picked up.

I realized a few things this past week. One is the Bible, I get so fired up reading it. If you actually read it, whether it be in order or not, and actually pay attention, you will pick up on the fact that there needs be an apostasy and that God's church has prophets and apostles. You see that Paul warned that the leaders would be corrupt (in Acts) and that the word of God was corrupted by some (in 2 Corinthians). Reading the Bible and trying to understand it, despite its old, old English, you begin to pick up insights. Using context clues and main ideas, certain things can be picked up on. Take, for example, baptisms for the dead. Paul was not renouncing it, but rather, he was saying that if Jesus was resurrected and we also will be resurrected, then we must do baptisms for the dead. Some things bug me a lot for some reason when I read the Bible. You could say I feel like Wilford Woodruff and Robert Mason studying the Bible and seeing what things consist of God's true church. And maybe this is because I am a Mormon and a missionary, but regardless, it is something that can be picked up on.

I also realized that there are two things I should master. One is fear. I cannot explain that one, other than I feel it should be something I should master. Two, and more importantly, getting upset. I am not as upset as I have been in the past. What is weird, that I have noticed and others have noticed, is that my performance peaks when I am angry or upset. My communication improves, I think a lot more quickly, and I get more passionate. So, I figure I should master righteous anger (if there is such a thing) and control it, rather than let anger control me. I feel right about this. How, I have no idea. I just get the ideas.

All is well! In a great mood, more especially after ranting about the Bible.

Love,

Elder S. Todd
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