Mon 8/30/2010 10:59 AM
Semana de Cosas asi :)
Buenos dias mi amada familia!!!
OK. Well, this week wasn't all that fantastic - I mean, nothing spectacular. It was a good week, but nothing eye goggling, I guess. So this will be an even shorter email, I imagine. We did receive like 14 referrals this week though. So that’s pretty sweet. The state fair is here! So we are going to be attending that today! So things are going well. I just can't believe that September is already here. Man, the time goes so fast!
Tuesday - So we tried to visit some people all morning, but no one was home. It stunk! But then, my mission buddies from North Platte showed up because we had mission training in Lincoln the next day! So Mac, Burty, and I went down to Hastings and visited some past investigators of theirs and some less actives. It was really fun. Then we had a little bbq at night with like 12 missionaries. It was legit. It was a fun day. I could see myself hanging out with Mac and Burton when I get home. They are chill. Not much that day.
Wednesday - All day was just the mission conference thing. We got home at 8pm and then we had to take some beds to the sisters and such. Then we all got some pizza, at like 8:30, before the elders went back to North Platte. It was a good day. I learned a lot, but I hate it sometimes because they say baptize, baptize, baptize. I'm thinking, “What about we elders who try hard and don't baptize?” Because Burt hasn't baptized in a year, same with Mac. And for me, it’s been 7 months. So it’s like what do you say to us? All they say is be obedient and have faith. I am like, “I am doing that!!!!” Oh well, it’s the Lord's time and His work, so when he chooses for me to baptize, I will.
Thursday - We taught 7 lessons this day! I said, “Elder Stephenson, we are gonna get 7 lessons today, in the morning.” As it turns out, I prophesied truth! It was really good. We had some good lessons. I mean, lots of the people were new so I don't have much to say about them, but hopefully you will be hearing more about each person. One of them has a concussion, so that lesson was like teaching a drunk. But the others went well. I am hopeful for them!
Friday - We tried so many people and, man, no one was home! We had like 3 lessons scheduled and all of them canceled. We had a member with us, so it was like ahhhh....come on! Are you kidding? But luckily we found some less actives to meet with that night! It was not a bad day, but turned out nice. Then we went for a run and I just looked at the stars. It was so beautiful!!
Saturday - Service day. We went and built that house. I hung like 6 bi-folding closet doors. Every single time that we have done service for people my day is ten times better. Also, each Saturday, by doing the service opportunities, we find a new investigator. So when we are serving others, the Lord always blesses us with happiness and someone to teach. So many blessings come from service. I would just do service all the time if I could. But yeah! I have learned some stuff there about building a house. It was fun. We got interviewed by Habitat for Humanity. So we might be online. It’s the Grand Island group, so if you want to look you can. After that, we tried finding more and more people. Nada!! ah! Oh well. After that, we got called by our president because no one was at the church to clean it. So we went and did that. We then went to a baptizm that lasted 2 hours. I don't remember the baptismal prayer in English and I was a witness. I was like, uh, is that right? I don't know. So I had them do it again. I was so confused. After all that, we taught one person and then we played some basketball with the ward and the investigators as usual!
Sunday - This day was so boring. Man, Sunday School is about the Bible, and, man, I almost fell asleep. Then Priesthood and Relief Society combined was about finances and stuff. I was like, ya, I have already heard this. Then the guy in sacrament meeting didn't come, so I had to give a 20 minute talk. I was like, wow, every time Elder Stephenson has to speak, it’s like for 5 minutes. But both times for me, I have given 20 minute talks. I’m thinking that Elder Stephenson is the one who needs to learn more Spanish. Oh well. After that, we went and taught a couple. One is Spanish, one is English. One is a member, one is not. We taught them with the Sisters. This guy had so many questions and he is a member, but way less-active. I had no idea what to say. He was asking questions and I am like.....I really don't know what to say. But I just start talking and then, bam, the guys eyes are filled with tears. I am thinking, “I don't even know what I just said, but I know I felt it. And it was good.” It is just so awesome how the Lord takes care of His children. He just fills my mouth with words every time. It is such a blessing! I love it out here. After that, I can’t really remember much except the lady gave us free fair tickets!! haah. :) Then we had some dinner and talked with some less-actives for a bit. It was good day after all.
Monday – We are just doing laundry all morning. After this, we are going to the State Fair! Woohoo! I can't wait to look at the steers and all the animals. It reminds me of Twin Falls! It’s going to be awesome. We are going to a pig race too! and a diving show. Nebraska State Fair is huge. They have like huge concerts every night. It’s so busy right now in this town. It’s awesome! But yeah, other than that, not too much going on!
Welp. (I know you love that word so much, it’s my hick Nebraska accent in me) But yeah. I done gone warshed all my time away! But I love you all so much! Things are really going so well with me. My companion sometimes drives me insane and I pretty much am senior companion because he can't speak Spanish. But I know I am with him for a reason. The Lord puts us in places we don't particularly like so we can grow. I am growing and just focusing on the mission and other people, not how I feel personally. I love you all so much and I plead for your happiness in my prayers daily. I hope you have an amazing week. Stay close to the Spirit and He will stay close to you. You will always be happy. I love and miss ya! peace!
Love always,
Elder Bradley Ruby (thats how Hispanics say my name sometimes ;) ha.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
23 August 2010
Mon 8/23/2010 11:22 AM
Semana de Circo!
Buenos Tardes Familia!!!
First off, I gotta give a birthday shout out to coolest, most awesome, best MOM in the WHOLE WORLD! I hope you have a wonderful birthday mother! What are ya, like 60 now? Something crazy like that huh? Just Kidding. I love you mom! Thanks for everything!
Well, this week was actually a pretty good week. It seems like a lot went on, but not really. But, oh well. I am getting a little lazy with my emails. Things are better, I am really trusting in the Lord. He helps us out with everything! But I better get started!
Tuesday - We taught a girl named Vanessa. She is cool and all, but mostly Catholic. Go figure. But we had a really good lesson with her and at the end she said an amazing prayer! It was way legit! We also taught some less-actives. But I can't remember anything cool happening! Oh, we got an oil change. The people took like 1 ½ hours to do it! It was taking away from our precious time to teach. Oh well. The van needed some new blood.
Wedsnesday - We had district meeting in the morning. After which, I, being the cook that I am, made some lunch for everyone! Some good ole French Toast! It was good! Then later, we taught Lorenzo y Solidad (set for baptizm). We are still having troubles trying to get them married, but I have faith that it will come to pass. We brought the Catalans with us. They are so good! They taught the lesson, pretty much. Then they invited us to go to the circus with them. So we brought some investigators and went to a Mexican circus. Oh my, I was laughing the whole time because it was just so ghetto hilarious. I loved it. I will send some pictures.
Thursday - Nothing happened this whole day.... We seriously tracted like 200 doors. No lessons, no nothing. It was terrible.
Friday - Hmmm.....wow. I can't remember anything from this day either....honestly. It must have been nothing too big. Oh well! I know we taught 3 people, but I can't remember who?
Saturday - We did so much service. First, we picked up trash off the highway for like 2 hours for the state fair to come here. I think we are going to volunteer for that as well. But then we went and I hung some closet doors. I am so happy that dad taught me how to do stuff, so I can be more handy. But I did that at the Catalans new house. After that, we went and taught Sajid. He is living with a member, but they have a date for marriage. His dad just died, so we had a really spiritual lesson and then we set him for baptism! He is set for October. But hey, at least he is looking forward to that! After that, I think we tried to see people, but didn't. At night, we had our usual Saturday activity - basketball. We had like 4 investigators there and like 3 less actives. So it was a good turn out! We play ball and then teach them. It works out well! It’s fun too!
Sunday - Sundays are so stressful with correlation meeting and getting people to church. It’s tough, but we got 3 people to church: Lorenzo, Solidad, y Sajid. It was good! I was so tired though because my companion has a sinus infection and he sneezes and blows his nose constantly. He does it so loud and he did it all night. It’s so annoying. But, oh well. I am patient. But, yeah, after church, we tried seeing like 20 people. They all were not home or busy. It was weird. But yeah.
Monday - today...Not much. Just chillin, pretty much. We might go to the Y, we have no idea. We have a lesson with Samantha tonight. She is so cool! Her sister had some missionary lessons before, so she bears her testimony to Sam. So it’s cool. We hope to set them tonight. But we will see! Not much else!
I just want you all to know that I love you! I know each of us are in a place for a certain reason. We should always reach out to others! because that’s what our Heavenly Father has asked us to do! I really have a testimony of prayer right now. It gets me through all the toughest times and I know it will with you too! I love you all and I hope you have a great last week of August! Love you oodles and oodles. So peace and toodles! ;)
Love always,
Elder Rigdizzle
NOTICE: This email message is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy all copies of the original
Semana de Circo!
Buenos Tardes Familia!!!
First off, I gotta give a birthday shout out to coolest, most awesome, best MOM in the WHOLE WORLD! I hope you have a wonderful birthday mother! What are ya, like 60 now? Something crazy like that huh? Just Kidding. I love you mom! Thanks for everything!
Well, this week was actually a pretty good week. It seems like a lot went on, but not really. But, oh well. I am getting a little lazy with my emails. Things are better, I am really trusting in the Lord. He helps us out with everything! But I better get started!
Tuesday - We taught a girl named Vanessa. She is cool and all, but mostly Catholic. Go figure. But we had a really good lesson with her and at the end she said an amazing prayer! It was way legit! We also taught some less-actives. But I can't remember anything cool happening! Oh, we got an oil change. The people took like 1 ½ hours to do it! It was taking away from our precious time to teach. Oh well. The van needed some new blood.
Wedsnesday - We had district meeting in the morning. After which, I, being the cook that I am, made some lunch for everyone! Some good ole French Toast! It was good! Then later, we taught Lorenzo y Solidad (set for baptizm). We are still having troubles trying to get them married, but I have faith that it will come to pass. We brought the Catalans with us. They are so good! They taught the lesson, pretty much. Then they invited us to go to the circus with them. So we brought some investigators and went to a Mexican circus. Oh my, I was laughing the whole time because it was just so ghetto hilarious. I loved it. I will send some pictures.
Thursday - Nothing happened this whole day.... We seriously tracted like 200 doors. No lessons, no nothing. It was terrible.
Friday - Hmmm.....wow. I can't remember anything from this day either....honestly. It must have been nothing too big. Oh well! I know we taught 3 people, but I can't remember who?
Saturday - We did so much service. First, we picked up trash off the highway for like 2 hours for the state fair to come here. I think we are going to volunteer for that as well. But then we went and I hung some closet doors. I am so happy that dad taught me how to do stuff, so I can be more handy. But I did that at the Catalans new house. After that, we went and taught Sajid. He is living with a member, but they have a date for marriage. His dad just died, so we had a really spiritual lesson and then we set him for baptism! He is set for October. But hey, at least he is looking forward to that! After that, I think we tried to see people, but didn't. At night, we had our usual Saturday activity - basketball. We had like 4 investigators there and like 3 less actives. So it was a good turn out! We play ball and then teach them. It works out well! It’s fun too!
Sunday - Sundays are so stressful with correlation meeting and getting people to church. It’s tough, but we got 3 people to church: Lorenzo, Solidad, y Sajid. It was good! I was so tired though because my companion has a sinus infection and he sneezes and blows his nose constantly. He does it so loud and he did it all night. It’s so annoying. But, oh well. I am patient. But, yeah, after church, we tried seeing like 20 people. They all were not home or busy. It was weird. But yeah.
Monday - today...Not much. Just chillin, pretty much. We might go to the Y, we have no idea. We have a lesson with Samantha tonight. She is so cool! Her sister had some missionary lessons before, so she bears her testimony to Sam. So it’s cool. We hope to set them tonight. But we will see! Not much else!
I just want you all to know that I love you! I know each of us are in a place for a certain reason. We should always reach out to others! because that’s what our Heavenly Father has asked us to do! I really have a testimony of prayer right now. It gets me through all the toughest times and I know it will with you too! I love you all and I hope you have a great last week of August! Love you oodles and oodles. So peace and toodles! ;)
Love always,
Elder Rigdizzle
NOTICE: This email message is for the sole use of the intended recipient(s) and may contain confidential and privileged information. Any unauthorized review, use, disclosure or distribution is prohibited. If you are not the intended recipient, please contact the sender by reply email and destroy all copies of the original
Thursday, August 19, 2010
16 August 2010
Mon 8/16/2010 2:35 PM
Semana de Ocho Meses?
So 8 months eh? not much!!
The months go by so fast! You have no idea. It seems like yesterday I was saying bye, and the day after that I was landing here! What goes on with this time! Oh well. So this week really was so boring and just nothing much. But it was a really good week though! I don't know why. The work wasn't amazing nor were the days, but it was good! I think it’s because I have been saying 30 minute prayers at night. They are so amazing! If you haven't done that before, try it. It will change your life for sure! But yeah. I will get going on the weekly update. It will be a shorty. Nothing much went on, so ya!
Tuesday - We only taught 2 people! I don't know what it was. No one was home this week! But we had a really good Plan of Salvacion lecion con Lorenzo y Solidad! They both loved it and it was great. The problem with them - they both are ready for baptism, but not for marriage, which is not good. I can't remember who else we taught. I think… a… ah... it was Olga. Same exact situation, except her "boyfriend" is against the church and wont' get hitched. Ah! I don't get it! You have kids together, you live together, but yet you won't get married? Spanish culture is crazy, but i love it!
Wednesday - We had zone conference all day. It was good to see my friends and learn some great stuff from President and Sister Kunz! It was good. I am liking the style of teaching with which the mission department has decided to go. It’s a lot more personable. Different from when pops was on his mish!
Thursday - I was sick all day with the trots. Not fun!!! So yeah. That was all!
Friday - We taught Lorenzo y Soledad again. We just asked questions the whole entire time! And man, it was way Spiritual. I hope it helped them figure out the marriage situation and stuff! Ah. I have been praying my knees off for them!
Saturday - Was so fun! In the morning, we did some service for the house again. We continued with the shed. We met like 3 new people to teach while we were there. It was great. Also, we planned to go see some less actives down in Hastings, NE. and on Saturday, it was also Kool-Aid days. That’s where Kool-Aid was invented! So yeah. We checked that out for like an hour after we had done some searching for the people. And, yeah, we even saw President there. It was weird, he wasn’t in church clothes. But he said, “Hi!” So after that, we invited everyone to our Saturday night basketball activity. We actually had 2 investigators there. It was great! This area is great for investigators. The ward really loves them!
Sunday - This day was not good - No one came to church, and I had to speak on developing talents. Man, I just read out of the Gospel Principles book. I didn't feel like composing a talk, so I winged it! But, yeah, then we knocked doors the rest of the day - and no one home.
Monday – Today, I don't know. Just chill. We are out here with just us, so not much to do! oh well!
So family, I miss you. 8 months since I have seen ya, except Jess, it’s been 7. How funny is that? But seriously, just trust in the Lord whatever you do. He will always be there for us. I have learned through prayer that the Lord will always be there for us. I really had a spiritual experience during my personal prayer for 30 minutes and it really built my testimony a lot more. The Lord has definitely blessed me so much - being able to speak this language and, not only that, but he speaks through me! I am on His clock so I have to be patient and I will be. I love you all so much! I hope you have a fantastic week all! Love and miss ya!
Love always,
Elder Bradley Rigby
Semana de Ocho Meses?
So 8 months eh? not much!!
The months go by so fast! You have no idea. It seems like yesterday I was saying bye, and the day after that I was landing here! What goes on with this time! Oh well. So this week really was so boring and just nothing much. But it was a really good week though! I don't know why. The work wasn't amazing nor were the days, but it was good! I think it’s because I have been saying 30 minute prayers at night. They are so amazing! If you haven't done that before, try it. It will change your life for sure! But yeah. I will get going on the weekly update. It will be a shorty. Nothing much went on, so ya!
Tuesday - We only taught 2 people! I don't know what it was. No one was home this week! But we had a really good Plan of Salvacion lecion con Lorenzo y Solidad! They both loved it and it was great. The problem with them - they both are ready for baptism, but not for marriage, which is not good. I can't remember who else we taught. I think… a… ah... it was Olga. Same exact situation, except her "boyfriend" is against the church and wont' get hitched. Ah! I don't get it! You have kids together, you live together, but yet you won't get married? Spanish culture is crazy, but i love it!
Wednesday - We had zone conference all day. It was good to see my friends and learn some great stuff from President and Sister Kunz! It was good. I am liking the style of teaching with which the mission department has decided to go. It’s a lot more personable. Different from when pops was on his mish!
Thursday - I was sick all day with the trots. Not fun!!! So yeah. That was all!
Friday - We taught Lorenzo y Soledad again. We just asked questions the whole entire time! And man, it was way Spiritual. I hope it helped them figure out the marriage situation and stuff! Ah. I have been praying my knees off for them!
Saturday - Was so fun! In the morning, we did some service for the house again. We continued with the shed. We met like 3 new people to teach while we were there. It was great. Also, we planned to go see some less actives down in Hastings, NE. and on Saturday, it was also Kool-Aid days. That’s where Kool-Aid was invented! So yeah. We checked that out for like an hour after we had done some searching for the people. And, yeah, we even saw President there. It was weird, he wasn’t in church clothes. But he said, “Hi!” So after that, we invited everyone to our Saturday night basketball activity. We actually had 2 investigators there. It was great! This area is great for investigators. The ward really loves them!
Sunday - This day was not good - No one came to church, and I had to speak on developing talents. Man, I just read out of the Gospel Principles book. I didn't feel like composing a talk, so I winged it! But, yeah, then we knocked doors the rest of the day - and no one home.
Monday – Today, I don't know. Just chill. We are out here with just us, so not much to do! oh well!
So family, I miss you. 8 months since I have seen ya, except Jess, it’s been 7. How funny is that? But seriously, just trust in the Lord whatever you do. He will always be there for us. I have learned through prayer that the Lord will always be there for us. I really had a spiritual experience during my personal prayer for 30 minutes and it really built my testimony a lot more. The Lord has definitely blessed me so much - being able to speak this language and, not only that, but he speaks through me! I am on His clock so I have to be patient and I will be. I love you all so much! I hope you have a fantastic week all! Love and miss ya!
Love always,
Elder Bradley Rigby
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
09 August 2010
Mon 8/9/2010 12:15 PM
Grand Island Estoy Aqui
Buenos Tardes Personas que lea eso!
So what’s up? I’m now in the good old, small town of Grand Island. It’s a little bit bigger than Kearney. And yah! My companion is Elder Stephenson now. He is about like 5 ft 5 and kind of looks Hispanic but isn't. We drive a Dodge Caravan and we live in the basement of our Branch President’s house. The members are way sweet here though. They are very hospitable and they are definitely a good group of people. They are like a family; it’s really great for the investigators that we bring in! What else....hmmm not much. Oh so I was a little sad to be transferred again. This is my 6th area. But it’s all good! So I'll get started on my weekly updated for ya'll! But since I can't really remember anything before Wednesday, that’s where I will start.
Wednesday - We found out about transfers so I just went and visited a bunch of families, of course! And I made sure I saw Guillermo and bore my testimony to him! I hope he gets baptized! He's such a good guy and needs the gospel in his life! But yeah, we just visited people all day, pretty much. It ended at the Rivera's - my favorite family here. And we had a good little chat, so it’s good. But then I just packed until like 2 am! I woke up at 4:30 am the next morning.
Thursday – We met at the transfer point, and yeah, took pictures with people I may not see again - such as Elder Moore and Elder Ozmun (he is home already, was my ZL and helped me a ton) and yeah. Then we went down to Lincoln! I saw everyone down there again too. I got to see Elder Hudspeth, it was way good to see my p-town (Provo Town) homie again. He's going up to Sioux City to be a ZL. Maybe I'll see him again. We'll see! Then yeah we left and it was only Elder Cahoon (AP) and in the car we had a really good talk. I told him I didn't want to get transferred. He really helped me realize a lot of things. It was a way good talk. So I decided to set some goals for myself! I'm going to make these next 16 months the most Spirit filled months ever. I’ve just decided that I need to get to work harder and just push myself even when I have nothing left to give. I have to give more! So yeah! We showed up in Grand Island. I saw Elder Stevens. Oh man, it was so good to see him before he went home. We had to wait at transfer spot like another 2 hours for the other people to drive back through. So we all just chilled. Then, yeah, they needed to leave. I seriously cried when Elder Stevens left. I love that guy. He was, seriously, my best friend out here. But, oh well! So then it was just Elder Stephenson and I. The first thing we did was go visit members and such, and then when there was no more, that’s right, we tracted a trailer park. It was so hot, and I was so tired. But I just kept going. At the end of the day, we had about 5 new people to teach - one of which, Vanessa, was a 16 year old girl who we taught on the doorstep. It was a good spiritual lesson. She started out kind of rejecting us, but as we started asking some good questions, man, she really opened up! It was great! After that, we went home and passed out at like 9:30.
Friday - We tracted all day again! We had no set appointments until the evening! But, oh well. I just kept going and going and thinking, “It’s probably gonna be the last door we knock on because it always is.” And, of course, it was! It was the last person before our set appointment. They were home and we made a return appointment. But he didn't show the next day. But then that night, I met our baptismal set. Lorenzo y Solidad! They are great. I really clicked with them because I'm just a fun goofball and so is Lorenzo. It went really well, but we found out that they are not married. Boo. So we have to get that going! Anyway, nothing big happened that day except that!
Saturday - We woke up and we built a house. No joke when I say that. The coolest family in the ward,. the Catalan's, are getting a house from Habitat for Humanity. So every Saturday from 8-2 we go and build their house for service. It was so fun. I spent most of my time building this shed! It was really fun. And we actually made 3 appointments with some people there who were interested in our message. So it worked out! After that, we tried knocking at some of our set appointments, but it didn't work out. So we went to our ward activity, that they have every Saturday night. They play basketball, soccer, and such after they have a little gospel study. We invited all the investigators and they came. They had a blast. Some left early, but it really worked out! I even balled it up. All the people were like, “You are so good.” And I said, “Not really....you guys are just used to playing soccer.” I think they were just amazed that someone could touch the rim. It was funny! But yeah, afterward, we placed two copies of LDM (Book of Mormon) and ate some tres leche! It was such a long fulfilling day! I loved it. I got a pretty good tan because of it too.
Sunday – We had a correlation meeting. Then 3 investigators showed up for church! Lorenzo, Solidad, y Sajid! So good. Elder Stephenson and I taught Priesthood meeting. It was really good. It was about faith. and Lorenzo and Sajid were just commenting so much. Alberto, a member for like 3 months, was just bearing his testimony like crazy. It was really good! I think they all had a good time. Then in la santa cena (Sacrament Meeting), my companion spoke. (apparently we speak every other Sunday.) Oh well, good for my Spanish! Then we went home and ate some din din and after, we went and taught Sergio. He's a less active. But yeah, good times already. It just because I have just been more focused on the work and everything! It’s so great!
Monday – Today, we have been just doing laundry, came here, and a member is taking us bowling! Then we'll go shopping. Then we have a dinner appointment with Lilia, a person we met on Saturday from service. After that, we are taking our investigators to Noche de Hogar (Family Home Evening) that the members of the ward put on every Monday night! So yeah! I'm excited for this transfer. I mean, I'm sure it will be tough because I know more Spanish than my companion, but, oh well. It’s a good opportunidad for me to learn and to grow in Spanish and in the Gospel! I'm really excited for it! I can't believe it’s already August. Where does the time go?
Welllll. I gotta get going, but I just want to thank everyone for all that they do for me and for this wonderful work of the Lord. It really is an important work. And if we just submit ourselves to it, we will have more happiness than any other thing can give us! I love you all so so so so so much! Have a great week!
Love always,
Elder Brad Rigby
Grand Island Estoy Aqui
Buenos Tardes Personas que lea eso!
So what’s up? I’m now in the good old, small town of Grand Island. It’s a little bit bigger than Kearney. And yah! My companion is Elder Stephenson now. He is about like 5 ft 5 and kind of looks Hispanic but isn't. We drive a Dodge Caravan and we live in the basement of our Branch President’s house. The members are way sweet here though. They are very hospitable and they are definitely a good group of people. They are like a family; it’s really great for the investigators that we bring in! What else....hmmm not much. Oh so I was a little sad to be transferred again. This is my 6th area. But it’s all good! So I'll get started on my weekly updated for ya'll! But since I can't really remember anything before Wednesday, that’s where I will start.
Wednesday - We found out about transfers so I just went and visited a bunch of families, of course! And I made sure I saw Guillermo and bore my testimony to him! I hope he gets baptized! He's such a good guy and needs the gospel in his life! But yeah, we just visited people all day, pretty much. It ended at the Rivera's - my favorite family here. And we had a good little chat, so it’s good. But then I just packed until like 2 am! I woke up at 4:30 am the next morning.
Thursday – We met at the transfer point, and yeah, took pictures with people I may not see again - such as Elder Moore and Elder Ozmun (he is home already, was my ZL and helped me a ton) and yeah. Then we went down to Lincoln! I saw everyone down there again too. I got to see Elder Hudspeth, it was way good to see my p-town (Provo Town) homie again. He's going up to Sioux City to be a ZL. Maybe I'll see him again. We'll see! Then yeah we left and it was only Elder Cahoon (AP) and in the car we had a really good talk. I told him I didn't want to get transferred. He really helped me realize a lot of things. It was a way good talk. So I decided to set some goals for myself! I'm going to make these next 16 months the most Spirit filled months ever. I’ve just decided that I need to get to work harder and just push myself even when I have nothing left to give. I have to give more! So yeah! We showed up in Grand Island. I saw Elder Stevens. Oh man, it was so good to see him before he went home. We had to wait at transfer spot like another 2 hours for the other people to drive back through. So we all just chilled. Then, yeah, they needed to leave. I seriously cried when Elder Stevens left. I love that guy. He was, seriously, my best friend out here. But, oh well! So then it was just Elder Stephenson and I. The first thing we did was go visit members and such, and then when there was no more, that’s right, we tracted a trailer park. It was so hot, and I was so tired. But I just kept going. At the end of the day, we had about 5 new people to teach - one of which, Vanessa, was a 16 year old girl who we taught on the doorstep. It was a good spiritual lesson. She started out kind of rejecting us, but as we started asking some good questions, man, she really opened up! It was great! After that, we went home and passed out at like 9:30.
Friday - We tracted all day again! We had no set appointments until the evening! But, oh well. I just kept going and going and thinking, “It’s probably gonna be the last door we knock on because it always is.” And, of course, it was! It was the last person before our set appointment. They were home and we made a return appointment. But he didn't show the next day. But then that night, I met our baptismal set. Lorenzo y Solidad! They are great. I really clicked with them because I'm just a fun goofball and so is Lorenzo. It went really well, but we found out that they are not married. Boo. So we have to get that going! Anyway, nothing big happened that day except that!
Saturday - We woke up and we built a house. No joke when I say that. The coolest family in the ward,. the Catalan's, are getting a house from Habitat for Humanity. So every Saturday from 8-2 we go and build their house for service. It was so fun. I spent most of my time building this shed! It was really fun. And we actually made 3 appointments with some people there who were interested in our message. So it worked out! After that, we tried knocking at some of our set appointments, but it didn't work out. So we went to our ward activity, that they have every Saturday night. They play basketball, soccer, and such after they have a little gospel study. We invited all the investigators and they came. They had a blast. Some left early, but it really worked out! I even balled it up. All the people were like, “You are so good.” And I said, “Not really....you guys are just used to playing soccer.” I think they were just amazed that someone could touch the rim. It was funny! But yeah, afterward, we placed two copies of LDM (Book of Mormon) and ate some tres leche! It was such a long fulfilling day! I loved it. I got a pretty good tan because of it too.
Sunday – We had a correlation meeting. Then 3 investigators showed up for church! Lorenzo, Solidad, y Sajid! So good. Elder Stephenson and I taught Priesthood meeting. It was really good. It was about faith. and Lorenzo and Sajid were just commenting so much. Alberto, a member for like 3 months, was just bearing his testimony like crazy. It was really good! I think they all had a good time. Then in la santa cena (Sacrament Meeting), my companion spoke. (apparently we speak every other Sunday.) Oh well, good for my Spanish! Then we went home and ate some din din and after, we went and taught Sergio. He's a less active. But yeah, good times already. It just because I have just been more focused on the work and everything! It’s so great!
Monday – Today, we have been just doing laundry, came here, and a member is taking us bowling! Then we'll go shopping. Then we have a dinner appointment with Lilia, a person we met on Saturday from service. After that, we are taking our investigators to Noche de Hogar (Family Home Evening) that the members of the ward put on every Monday night! So yeah! I'm excited for this transfer. I mean, I'm sure it will be tough because I know more Spanish than my companion, but, oh well. It’s a good opportunidad for me to learn and to grow in Spanish and in the Gospel! I'm really excited for it! I can't believe it’s already August. Where does the time go?
Welllll. I gotta get going, but I just want to thank everyone for all that they do for me and for this wonderful work of the Lord. It really is an important work. And if we just submit ourselves to it, we will have more happiness than any other thing can give us! I love you all so so so so so much! Have a great week!
Love always,
Elder Brad Rigby
02 August 2010
Mon 8/2/2010 12:06 PM
Semana De Fija
Well hello there,
So honestly this week went by super fast so I'm just going to hit another quick email. I'm trying to be much shorter with everything because I want more time to play ball and chat with ya'll. So here I go.
So nothing happened really at all until Wednesday. Well, Elder Poccori and I got in some disagreements and such. But oh well, don't worry, I really am being patient and I wait until the last straw to say something. And yeah, he has a temper and is very stubborn about everything. It’s so crazy. I mean we get along most of the time, but sometimes he really doesn't understand the rules or anything, so I have to be the one that puts him in his place or no one will! So yeah. But Wednesday we had Zone Conference again. It was good. It was super long though! It was nice to have some Spanish missionaries to talk to though, instead of teaching in English when we do role plays! But after Zone Conference, we had dinner with the Rivera's. That’s always way fun! Then after that, we went to the trail center with Guillermo. We watched the Joseph Smith movie, it made him cry! So we were like. YES! So after that we walked around the temple grounds for a talk. We ended up running into to so many members who bore their testimony! It was great and we ended up setting him for the 28th of August. It was great!
Then, let’s see, the next day we seriously walked around what seemed an eternity. I'm so sick of walking and not talking to anyone. Oh well, but that night Elder Poccori went with Brother Goff and taught Guillermo. I guess it went well. Elder Starkey and I went and did some service for a member.
Saturday, Elder Poccori went on a team up again. We just send him all the time so we can have a break. We went and taught Guillermo at the church and I started like to tear up talking about the Plan of Salvacion and so did Elder Starkey. It was weird. I hate crying. But yeah, we taught a way spiritual lesson and Guillermo really liked it a lot! So we were really happy about that! But then, later that night, when he said he would show up to a baptism of another person in our district, he didn't come. It was sad! But at church, yesterday, he said he was going to be late. He felt bad being late! So yeah, not too much happened this week!
Oh well! I just know the Lord is testing me. Patience, diligence, and obedience every day. He's testing me on those! So I'm trying to do my best!
Love always,
Elder Rigby
Semana De Fija
Well hello there,
So honestly this week went by super fast so I'm just going to hit another quick email. I'm trying to be much shorter with everything because I want more time to play ball and chat with ya'll. So here I go.
So nothing happened really at all until Wednesday. Well, Elder Poccori and I got in some disagreements and such. But oh well, don't worry, I really am being patient and I wait until the last straw to say something. And yeah, he has a temper and is very stubborn about everything. It’s so crazy. I mean we get along most of the time, but sometimes he really doesn't understand the rules or anything, so I have to be the one that puts him in his place or no one will! So yeah. But Wednesday we had Zone Conference again. It was good. It was super long though! It was nice to have some Spanish missionaries to talk to though, instead of teaching in English when we do role plays! But after Zone Conference, we had dinner with the Rivera's. That’s always way fun! Then after that, we went to the trail center with Guillermo. We watched the Joseph Smith movie, it made him cry! So we were like. YES! So after that we walked around the temple grounds for a talk. We ended up running into to so many members who bore their testimony! It was great and we ended up setting him for the 28th of August. It was great!
Then, let’s see, the next day we seriously walked around what seemed an eternity. I'm so sick of walking and not talking to anyone. Oh well, but that night Elder Poccori went with Brother Goff and taught Guillermo. I guess it went well. Elder Starkey and I went and did some service for a member.
Saturday, Elder Poccori went on a team up again. We just send him all the time so we can have a break. We went and taught Guillermo at the church and I started like to tear up talking about the Plan of Salvacion and so did Elder Starkey. It was weird. I hate crying. But yeah, we taught a way spiritual lesson and Guillermo really liked it a lot! So we were really happy about that! But then, later that night, when he said he would show up to a baptism of another person in our district, he didn't come. It was sad! But at church, yesterday, he said he was going to be late. He felt bad being late! So yeah, not too much happened this week!
Oh well! I just know the Lord is testing me. Patience, diligence, and obedience every day. He's testing me on those! So I'm trying to do my best!
Love always,
Elder Rigby
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
26 July 2010
Mon 7/26/2010 11:54 AM
Semana de Nuevos Misioneros!
WHAT IT DO FAMILIA!!
So this week, first off, we got two new missionaries. They are in the south. Elder Finnerty, who is from Sandy, Utah, he's way awesome! And Elder Thorpe (greenie), from Phoenix, AZ. So yah. That was a huge burden lifted off my shoulders for sure! It’s been great. But yeah, this week like nothing happened. I swear. So this email will be short because, yeah, I can't really think of what to say? Sorry! But I'm trying! Here we go!
Tuesday - We went and had lunch with a family. They made this stuff that’s called mole. I hate it. It’s so disgusting! It’s like eating charred bricks in a tortilla. But yeah, I threw it up after. It was sick. But later, we went and taught the Loeza family. They are the family of 9! Los padres son miembros. I mean, they are members, but the 7 kids aren't. It’s really hard to get them all in one place, but once we did, we taught about the importance of going to church and following the profeta. They have tons of questions always. But we try to do our best with all of them.
Wednesday -So first off, we had to go meet the new missionaries and give them the keys to the other apartment and give them their phone. Then it was off to district meeting. It was fun! After district meeting, I went on exchanges out to Fremont with Elder Werrett. (I go home with him.) We seriously knocked doors all day and nothing - nothing at all. But then Elder Werrett was like, “Let’s go take a picture of this cool place.” So we did and we were just about to go home and this car pulls up and this lady gets out. Her name is Trina. We taught her like a first lesson right there on the street and she was wanting to learn more. So we made a return appointment for the morning. It’s crazy how the Lord works. He waits until your just about the go home for you to find someone. So diligence is a huge deal in missionary work. We were like....holy cow, going from nothing to something! After that, we had a good talk with Papa G, whose the member that the Elders live with. He's an awesome guy. He comes to like all the missionary things because he's pretty much part of our mission. It’s great!
Thursday - We went and taught Trina with a member and it went great! We started just asking her some deep questions, because we had no idea what to teach her. So we just started asking her questions and I had the thought to ask her about Christ. And then, bam, she started into Christ. And then Elder Werrett had a feeling to ask her about if she knows where we come from and where we go. Next thing we know, we're teaching the Plan of Salvacion. It was great. The Spirit really does direct us what to say and what to do. The rest of the day, after we exchanged, composed of eating dinner and kind of showing the new guys around Omaha. It was fun!
Friday -Nothing happened this day. Seriously nothing! Everyone canceled. So we just walked around and got sweaty. It was one of those down days!
Saturday - We woke up and went to 24th street and picked up trash with the ward for like 3 hrs! There is so much trash on the streets here. It’s so crazy. It’s like, doesn't anyone care about the streets and how they look? Turns out they don't. But after that, we went home and showered and went to the Bautistas and ate some lunch. It was yummmy! Then, after that, we taught them about the temple and going there and making sure that they come to church and stuff! After that, just more tracting until Irma (recent convert) called us and we went and had a great discussion with her. But she never showed up at church yesterday. dang it!
Sunday – We went to Ward Council and it was great. The ward is really starting to pick up. And the bishop is just being awesome about it. So I think things will definitely pick up. So as I walk in to church, Elder Finnerty says, “I love your outfit.” And I was like what the....ha. Then I realized it. I was wearing my blue slacks with my black suit coat. I was like, oh my gosh. I look like a dork! So Starkey and I went out to the car to go change it and Guiermo shows up to church! We were like, “What the....we haven't been able to get a hold of him all week!”So that was super awesome! We were way pumped. So I went and changed my suit coat and just took Guiermo to church basically. But then Sacrament came and when investigators come to church, I love the Spirit of Sacrament, but the talks are always scary. And yup, what do ya know, the talks were on FHE and the Temple - both things that Guiermo doesn't know yet. So the whole time, all he was doing was asking questions to me and looking confused. I was just praying that I would make sense enough for him. At the end of church, he's said, “I like this place. I definitely want to come back. Everyone is nice and I love learning. So you guys are coming over to my house on Tuesday and teaching me more.” We're like for sure! Oh man, I'm so excited for him! Then the rest of the night we went to dinner and then ya!
Monday – Today, we didn't do much. After this, we have zone activity with President and it should be pretty fun!
Well family, I love you so much. Sorry I kind of ran out of time this week. It’s because we had some fun at the gym. But next week we will plan to end earlier so I have some time to do some detailed emails for you! I love you all so much! Keep diligent in your callings. Diligence is huge in the Lord's eyes. We will be so rewarded if we keep diligent and patient! I love you all. Thanks for all your support and prayers for me! I love you so much!
Love always,
Elder "Pepino" Rigby
See photos below
19 July 2010
Mon 7/19/2010 3:38 PM
Semana de Color!
Buenos Tardes Familia!
K, so first off. I forgot my planner so this email will be a little bit shorter because the week is just a blur! So I'll try my best to tell you as much as I can. This week was SOOOOOO hot. Wednesday was the worst day ever and we've been running low on miles, so we've succumbed to walking - which I absolutely hate to do in the heat. Plus, I’m a Spanish missionary - we don't walk. Ha-ha. But seriously, every doorstep we just sweat, sweat, and sweat. It’s so insane. All I do is drink water. It’s so crazy. But it’s fun. Just way different! But it was a good week. It went by so, so, so, so, fast! It’s crazy. I swear the months are just going by like nothing else. It’s so crazy! But the week was great; we had a lot of team ups this week, so it was way awesome to see the ward kicking in. I'm excited to see missionary work go on! But then again, it’s the Lord's time, not mine. I mean it’s been like 6 months since my last baptism, but our ZL has gone 1.5 years without one. So, it honestly isn't all about those at all. I mean I'm just doing what I need to do! :) Anyway, I'll get started.
Tuesday - uh....I can't remember anything. Elder Starkey went on team ups and Peccori and I tried some people but no luck. Boring day!
Wednesday - We walked around for what seemed forever. I was sweating so bad! But we did manage to find a new investigator! Guiermo. He's just great. He wants to be baptized and is always looking to learn more. It’s just great! So he's a hopeful for the week! And when we got to dinner at the Robles house, we moved a wooden swingset! It was insanely heavy, so I sweat some more. Then after that, obispo came and picked up Elder Peccori, Elder Starkey, and me and we went to the Sandoval’s house. By the time we got there, there was a huge! Huge! huge! thunderstorm. Like trees falling down in the road and crazy. I have a video of me dodging things as we're driving home. It was so fun. I love rough weather! So we went home early that night because we were advised to do so, because there was a possible tornado. It didn't happen though! dang it!
Thursday - So this day changed my outlook on the mission big time! It was great. We had our mission training! It was super great. I loved it so much and I felt the Spirit a ton! They made a new District video. It’s focusing more on teaching! it was great! I really did enjoy it. It lasted until about like 4. Then we went and taught Guiermo. The lesson before, he had offered us like 20 bones for the BOM. We're like, its free.Then he's like, well, I want to feed ya sometime. I said maybe next time (just totally kidding) and that day we had our lesson and I was ready to go, but I noticed in his prayer, he blessed the food. I was like.....uh? We have a dinner at 6 but we can't just say no. So he pulled out the lasagna and we ate there! Then we left and went to our dinner appointment and ate some more. Two meals - too much! I was so full. I wanted to throw up after that. So after that, wow, I was beat. But we went and taught some less-actives and then helped Sister Rivera out with some stuff! Then we went home and I collapsed.
Friday - Nothing much happened this day at all. We found a lost sheep though. We found a family of 9!!! That’s right, 9! The parents are members, but the kids aren't. We taught them the first lesson and it was really great! We challenged them to come to church, but they work on Sunday's. But I hope things start turning up for them. I don't remember anything else this day.
Saturday - We had some service in the morning as a zone. We cut trees down for like 2 hours, it was so fun. It was way hot though. I got a tan though! :) But while we were there, the assistants told us that we would be getting a new Spanish missionary this week. Weird. But we'll see where he goes. I think it'd be smart to have two area's in “O”town. But it’s the Lord's will, not mine! Then we were supposed to go to the trail center with Guiermo, but he canceled. He got stuck in Columbus with car trouble. So he didn't come to church either. So we had to improvise. So we went and saw a recent convert - which was great because she came to church the next day!
Sunday - Same old Sundays. We went to church, then to Torres house to eat. Then we went and had family home evening with the Sandovals! I love Sunday's. They are definitely more low key.
Monday - So we went to the YMCA today all morning. then came here. Then after this, I have no idea. Then we have a dinner and a lesson afterward! So ya! Good times.
Well, this week I have definitely learned to be more humble, I think. As I was praying the other day, I was wondering how I could be a better missionary. I had the answer to be more humble. So I've definitely been doing that. It’s very humbling every single time we eat at someone's house. These families, some of them, can barely feed themselves and yet they are always willing to give us something. It’s so great to see that. I think that giving our time and service to the Lord and our family we will be much better off. You know, amidst the things we have in our lives, I think sometimes we forget why we are really here. It’s "to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man"(Moses 1:39) and its great. We are so blessed to be here and to have chosen this path. I'm so grateful for the oppurtunidad that I have to be a missionary and to serve the Lord. I know that as I magnify my calling, I become closer to the Lord. So I urge each of you to do that this week. Magnify your calling and humble yourself and see what more you can give. I love you all so much, and I miss you a load! But I know this is where I need to be right now. I love you all! Have a great week!
Love always,
Elder Bradley Don Rigby
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