Hello there,
It was pretty funny talking to you on the phone mom haha. I was in the bathroom brushing my teeth or something, and I heard my companion answer the phone in finnish and then just start laughing. I assumed it was you guys haha. Mom don't worry about a little sin. Remember, "Eat drink and be merry for tomorrow we die and it shall be well with us... and ya know if it so be that we are found with a little sin, god will beat us with a few stripes, and we shall be saved!" That was a joke... haha NERD (me not you). But it was so good to hear your voice. I couldn't get to sleep I was so excited.. well that and my companion was listening to David Archaletta (with the mormon tabernacle choir) or whatever his name is until you called, so I was hearing Joy to the world all night in my mind! David really speaks to me... His voice is as the voice of a butterfly flying away... uh hmm (big cough)
So really nice, and I am so excited to talk to you both on Sunday! I just need to know if I'm getting one phone call or two, and I will be checking my email after tuesday to hear this response. If you both are calling then Phone calls can start after three my time. So if one of you wanted to call at like 3 or 4, and then the other at 4 or 5 that would be great. I do want to stay as close to the white handbook as possible. President said, 30 to 40 minutes so that means 40 haha. This is a letter of the law situation!! So dad make it happen! What am I paying you for!? haha jokes..
Anyways I guess I'll start by my experience leaving Joensuu. I must say that it was one of the hardest days but also happiest days of my life. Sister T drove me and Elder Rogers and his new companion to the train station. As we were pulling my bags out of the car, my big sister N came walking up!! It was a huge suprise to me! She said I wanted to say goodbye haha. Then we all pulled my bike and bags to the dock, and the H Family were there (some more members of the ward). Sister H made me some cookies. We got my bags situated, and I took pictures with my sister, and Sister T. Sister T is like my Finnish mom. She calls me her son haha. As the train was leaving, everyone waived goodby, and started walking away, but not Sister T. She stayed, and I noticed. I put my hand in the shape of a heart, and then pointed at her, I love you. I will never forget the look on her face, the thought of the love in her eyes brings tears to my eyes.
I can't in words describe how much I love that city and those people. I didn't know what love was until I came on a mission. Of course I loved people, but I didn't know how important it is in life. Pain comes to my heart thinking about never being able to see them again. It is so real. However I know I'll see them again. Someday, I prayed, and I continue to pray that someday I can just see them again. However I thanked my Heavenly Father on the train for the blessings I recieved in Joensuu. I learned, and grew so much in that city. Sure maybe I had to give up Jen, or family for a short time, or a job, or postpone college or other things... But I can't tell you how much I love and miss those People. Had I not come on a mission, I don't even want to go there. My life, and who I am as a person would not be the same.
I felt Heavenly Fathers love sink into my heart as the Spirit whispered to me, You did all that Your Heavenly Father sent you to do in Joensuu. I know that even though that chapter of my mission in Joensuu is over, my work is not done here.
Now on a more up beat note haha. Kouvola is so great! In fact Elder Larsen and I are best friends haha. I'm not sure how but everything is so perfect! Everything is just hilarious. We have fun doing everything together in the work! Study, Finding, teaching, playing the guitar at the ward christmas party in front of all the members haha. I'll tell you more about that on Sunday haha. We have really been trying to work our hardest and leaving the rest up to the Lord. I testify that this principle is true. When we work, and pray, and have theeeee funnest time ever!! THe Lord will show forth His hand, and miracles will happen. Today is the first day of the change, and last week we found two new investigators!! It is going forward, and nothing will stop it! We live life, make mistakes, and try not to look like an idiot in front of the ward on your first day, and everything goes well.
We have zone conference on the 23rd down in Helsinki, and I believe I will get my package then from you Daddy. I can't really decide what to buy with my christmas money... I'll probably just save it until I come across something cool. Like today when I go shopping haha! I need this Justin Bieber T shirt!!! It's sooo me!
well I love you both, and I will talk with you in a couple days to arrange everything... I mean... read your words........ and stuff..
k bye
Will
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Friday, December 16, 2011
December 12, 2011
HEEELLLLLLLLLOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
So the big news on change calls... am I leaving?? am I staying!!!???? uh... Elder Perry you will be... leaving. Heart.. crushed to the floor... nails. piercing... haha. President Rawlings called us on a random day haha. I answered and pronouced my name in finnish. He said haha who is that? I said well... uh... I think he's good looking haha! oh... hmmm.. excuse me President!!!
I will be leaving to Kouvola early tomorrow morning. My new companions name is Elder Larsen! I will be in my first car city!! During the winter!! He was in my group at the MTC!! I'm not sure how inspired this was.. but the Lord has blessed me with very good companions!!
However this change call was bitter-sweet for sure. I really love working with Elder Rogers, and in Joensuu. I have really come to love this city more than any other place on earth. I love the people here, and especially the members. They let me bare my testimony in Sacrament Meeting, and as I got up to the pulpit, I looked around at each individual, and my heart was so full. I couldn't speak. Never have I felt so much love in my heart towards a group of people. (Except to you mommy) haha dad ya know I had to throw that one in. Anyways haha, I looked at them, and I said with every capacity in me, I love you, each of you. Yesterday was a very hard day saying goodbye to the members for me.
So as far as moving to Kouvola, I'm not sure what Elder Larson has set up as far as using members computers. However President did say you could call skype to my phone there. I'm going to see if President will give me a little extra time, because my parents are divorced. So I will get a little more time I believe, I hope. If not, lame. Just kidding. I'm so excited to talk to you all!! You will probably be impressed that my voice as gotten a lot lower. Probably due to the fact that I lift weights here like a tonka truck! but I don't want to toot my horn. Just kidding........ same old will.... same high voice... actually there are times that I wonder if girls here have lower voices than me!! I wonder that.. because it's true!! A little awkward... Hi, we know that God has a plan for us on earth today... I DON'T BELIEVE THAT... UH.. DEEP... GIVE ME YOUR LUNCH MONEY!! (Insert deep finnish girl voice haha.) I'm going to throw in a hint... I'm not sure if this is okay or not, but you might try calling that number after this wednesday but before next monday (my time) for like two minutes to make sure it works, if it doesn't then I can figure things out. I promise I'm trying to be obediant! I feel kind of bad for saying that, but I don't want there to be any problems the day of.
So cool experiences haha. We had District Meeting last week, and the zone leaders came down! We had a very cool district meeting about keeping things fresh. Making sure that we're always having fun, and just a good experience in missionary work. It really pumped me up for coming back to Joensuu. We came home, and had about an hour left of work outside. We said a prayer, Heavenly Father, please help us to find those that are being prepared. Simple, and short, and out. We were on the street, and as we were waiting at a stoplight, We felt we should go a different direction. As we did so, we passed by a pizza shop, and I saw a potential who gave us a wrong address!! I said, Elder Rogers that's him haha!! We walked back and forth trying to see if it was haha. We came up with the conclusion that we had to eat pizza at that shop!!
We went in, and orderd, and I turned around and said (acting suprised), "Oh haha, well, hey how's it going??" haha nice acting elder perry! we met with him, but he was drunk... which puts a damper on things. We set a time to meet, and after 100 times of reminding him I asked so what time are we meeting? (the scheduled time was klo 14:00) He said, uh... no. tomorrow uhh... 14..... years..... haha I said Yeeeppp haha. However it was cool to see Heavenly Father put us in a place where someone needed the gospel. We gave him a Book of Mormon, and everything.
WOOOW I'm leaving Joensuu! I've been here for almost 7 months. Anyways, I got Grandma's package, and thank you so much! I wore the hat our whole weekly planning session! But I put it back in the package until Christmas when I can open it. I haven't heard from grandma in so long! What is so interesting is that morning I said a little prayer. I said Heavenly Father, If it's possible, can I get a letter from my grandma? I came home that night, and there was her package!! Even Better!!! I miss her, and grandma perry a lot. I am going to send them both a little suprise that I think they'll like.
Dad I'm going down south to that zone, so I would imagine that it will be easier to get. Good call on sending it to the mission office! Thank you so much for everything that you do for me. I love you both so much. I am so grateful to be here serving. Sometimes it's hard, but ya know, what else isn't? I love this country, I love this people, and I love this language (well sometimes). I am grateful for all the opportunities and blessings the Lord has given me here in Joensuu.
Thank you mom, for doing all that stuff for the T Family. They are so special to me, and I know they will appreciate it. I saw the daughter wearing her CTR ring at church yesterday haha. They love them. Thank you so much.
Rakkaudella,
Vanhin Perry
Hyvää Joulua!!
So the big news on change calls... am I leaving?? am I staying!!!???? uh... Elder Perry you will be... leaving. Heart.. crushed to the floor... nails. piercing... haha. President Rawlings called us on a random day haha. I answered and pronouced my name in finnish. He said haha who is that? I said well... uh... I think he's good looking haha! oh... hmmm.. excuse me President!!!
I will be leaving to Kouvola early tomorrow morning. My new companions name is Elder Larsen! I will be in my first car city!! During the winter!! He was in my group at the MTC!! I'm not sure how inspired this was.. but the Lord has blessed me with very good companions!!
However this change call was bitter-sweet for sure. I really love working with Elder Rogers, and in Joensuu. I have really come to love this city more than any other place on earth. I love the people here, and especially the members. They let me bare my testimony in Sacrament Meeting, and as I got up to the pulpit, I looked around at each individual, and my heart was so full. I couldn't speak. Never have I felt so much love in my heart towards a group of people. (Except to you mommy) haha dad ya know I had to throw that one in. Anyways haha, I looked at them, and I said with every capacity in me, I love you, each of you. Yesterday was a very hard day saying goodbye to the members for me.
So as far as moving to Kouvola, I'm not sure what Elder Larson has set up as far as using members computers. However President did say you could call skype to my phone there. I'm going to see if President will give me a little extra time, because my parents are divorced. So I will get a little more time I believe, I hope. If not, lame. Just kidding. I'm so excited to talk to you all!! You will probably be impressed that my voice as gotten a lot lower. Probably due to the fact that I lift weights here like a tonka truck! but I don't want to toot my horn. Just kidding........ same old will.... same high voice... actually there are times that I wonder if girls here have lower voices than me!! I wonder that.. because it's true!! A little awkward... Hi, we know that God has a plan for us on earth today... I DON'T BELIEVE THAT... UH.. DEEP... GIVE ME YOUR LUNCH MONEY!! (Insert deep finnish girl voice haha.) I'm going to throw in a hint... I'm not sure if this is okay or not, but you might try calling that number after this wednesday but before next monday (my time) for like two minutes to make sure it works, if it doesn't then I can figure things out. I promise I'm trying to be obediant! I feel kind of bad for saying that, but I don't want there to be any problems the day of.
So cool experiences haha. We had District Meeting last week, and the zone leaders came down! We had a very cool district meeting about keeping things fresh. Making sure that we're always having fun, and just a good experience in missionary work. It really pumped me up for coming back to Joensuu. We came home, and had about an hour left of work outside. We said a prayer, Heavenly Father, please help us to find those that are being prepared. Simple, and short, and out. We were on the street, and as we were waiting at a stoplight, We felt we should go a different direction. As we did so, we passed by a pizza shop, and I saw a potential who gave us a wrong address!! I said, Elder Rogers that's him haha!! We walked back and forth trying to see if it was haha. We came up with the conclusion that we had to eat pizza at that shop!!
We went in, and orderd, and I turned around and said (acting suprised), "Oh haha, well, hey how's it going??" haha nice acting elder perry! we met with him, but he was drunk... which puts a damper on things. We set a time to meet, and after 100 times of reminding him I asked so what time are we meeting? (the scheduled time was klo 14:00) He said, uh... no. tomorrow uhh... 14..... years..... haha I said Yeeeppp haha. However it was cool to see Heavenly Father put us in a place where someone needed the gospel. We gave him a Book of Mormon, and everything.
WOOOW I'm leaving Joensuu! I've been here for almost 7 months. Anyways, I got Grandma's package, and thank you so much! I wore the hat our whole weekly planning session! But I put it back in the package until Christmas when I can open it. I haven't heard from grandma in so long! What is so interesting is that morning I said a little prayer. I said Heavenly Father, If it's possible, can I get a letter from my grandma? I came home that night, and there was her package!! Even Better!!! I miss her, and grandma perry a lot. I am going to send them both a little suprise that I think they'll like.
Dad I'm going down south to that zone, so I would imagine that it will be easier to get. Good call on sending it to the mission office! Thank you so much for everything that you do for me. I love you both so much. I am so grateful to be here serving. Sometimes it's hard, but ya know, what else isn't? I love this country, I love this people, and I love this language (well sometimes). I am grateful for all the opportunities and blessings the Lord has given me here in Joensuu.
Thank you mom, for doing all that stuff for the T Family. They are so special to me, and I know they will appreciate it. I saw the daughter wearing her CTR ring at church yesterday haha. They love them. Thank you so much.
Rakkaudella,
Vanhin Perry
Hyvää Joulua!!
December 5, 2011
Morro Joensuusta!
Mom I got your package this week. We got home from Kuopio on friday, and I had a slip (in finnish) that said I could go pick up my package at the posti toimisto. Towards the end of the night, I went and the lady said, uh.... look at the date.......... your package will be here tomorrow. Lame!! but I got it, and thank you for the tie. I love it! Have you gotten your package yet?? I sent you a package for your birthday two weeks before yesterday! (Happy Birthday!!) But I guess you didn't get it yet. It has a finnish... hahaha you have to wait. No niin. But thank you for all the stuff, and i'll give those things to the T Family.
President Rawlings said we can use skype on Christmas if we can find a member to let us. I'm in the process of doing that. The problem is we get change calls on Saturday, and I have no idea if i'll be here in Joensuu. I am assuming I will, but then again I've been here for five changes. I don't want to leave. I love everything the way it is. However I'll go wherever I need to go. As far as things to go in my package dad, I would really like some more cool- aid. The red kind is my favorite... so if you could hook me up with that.
Things have been kind of rough this last little while. Two weeks before H's baptism, her husband had to go to the hospital. We haven't had any contact with them since, however he is suppose to come home on the 8th of this month, so katsoton. It makes me a little frustrated, but I try not to let those things get to me. Sometimes when I start to get discouraged, I think about funny things that happened back in the day. I remember one time doing an extra credit project for my health class in junior high. Dad walked into the room, as I was drawing my poster of the male reproductive system, and sat on the couch, and said, "I hope you don't hang that up on your wall!!" Haha pretty funny. I am so happy here! I love being here, with elder rogers in joensuu. We make literally everything fun. But sometimes there are those days that just go wrong haha.
I was pretty discouraged Saturday night, and I could feel myself getting to myself (is that a statement?) Anyways, Heavenly Father is so amazing. I read from my new conference edition ensign (5 points to mom) a scripture from a talk. It states: "Believe in God, believe that he is, and that he has all power and wisdom in earth and is heaven. Believe that man doth not comprehend, all things that the Lord comprehendeth (Mosiah 4:9). It's along those words... I realized the importance of just believing and having fun, and not stressing. I have a strong testimony that the Lord can do His own work, we just have to get out of the way, and be instruments.
I can't even describe to you how many hilarious moments I've had this week. I think last night had to top it! We were coming home to do numbers, and we were getting our in betweeners on the way home. I stopped this one girl, haha and I said something along the lines (as I was testifying) Sinä olet Jumalan tytär(you are gods daughter)... wrong... I really said, sinulla on Jumalan tytär(You have god's daughter, or maybe even you are pregnant with gods daughter) AHHHHHHHHHH LANGUAGE HIT TO THE FACE!! She was like uh.. no.. in this scared face, and I gave her our card, and didn't realize what i said, until a few seconds later!! Creepy! hahaha all I could think about after that was YOUR A WIZARD HARRY! Elder Rogers and I laughed it up for the rest of the night. DUUnnccEE!
The T Family are so cool of course. Sister T took Elder Rogers and I to lunch, at this Greek place. I told her the story about when all of us went to the greek festival, with lex and the kids, and Natalie was asking the priest all those probing questions trying to overthrow his dominion haha. (If I join this church, can I recieve this power, or so called priesthood?? ) haha just kidding nat, we love ya. But anyways it was really good. We talked about their situation a little bit. Elder Rogers and I have been praying that The kids dad will soften his heart and let them be baptized. Obviously they have as well, and the Dad is really starting to allow them to come to church. It has been so great.
I love you both so much. I cannot wait to talk to you! Rememer you can get skype, or international calling which will be cheaper. I can't wait to hear your voices, and stuff.
love you all,
Willie
P.s. I really like this quote. Excuses are nothing, but a sign of weakend faith. Whenever I feel like I want to take a short cut, I remember this, and it strengethens me.
Mom I got your package this week. We got home from Kuopio on friday, and I had a slip (in finnish) that said I could go pick up my package at the posti toimisto. Towards the end of the night, I went and the lady said, uh.... look at the date.......... your package will be here tomorrow. Lame!! but I got it, and thank you for the tie. I love it! Have you gotten your package yet?? I sent you a package for your birthday two weeks before yesterday! (Happy Birthday!!) But I guess you didn't get it yet. It has a finnish... hahaha you have to wait. No niin. But thank you for all the stuff, and i'll give those things to the T Family.
President Rawlings said we can use skype on Christmas if we can find a member to let us. I'm in the process of doing that. The problem is we get change calls on Saturday, and I have no idea if i'll be here in Joensuu. I am assuming I will, but then again I've been here for five changes. I don't want to leave. I love everything the way it is. However I'll go wherever I need to go. As far as things to go in my package dad, I would really like some more cool- aid. The red kind is my favorite... so if you could hook me up with that.
Things have been kind of rough this last little while. Two weeks before H's baptism, her husband had to go to the hospital. We haven't had any contact with them since, however he is suppose to come home on the 8th of this month, so katsoton. It makes me a little frustrated, but I try not to let those things get to me. Sometimes when I start to get discouraged, I think about funny things that happened back in the day. I remember one time doing an extra credit project for my health class in junior high. Dad walked into the room, as I was drawing my poster of the male reproductive system, and sat on the couch, and said, "I hope you don't hang that up on your wall!!" Haha pretty funny. I am so happy here! I love being here, with elder rogers in joensuu. We make literally everything fun. But sometimes there are those days that just go wrong haha.
I was pretty discouraged Saturday night, and I could feel myself getting to myself (is that a statement?) Anyways, Heavenly Father is so amazing. I read from my new conference edition ensign (5 points to mom) a scripture from a talk. It states: "Believe in God, believe that he is, and that he has all power and wisdom in earth and is heaven. Believe that man doth not comprehend, all things that the Lord comprehendeth (Mosiah 4:9). It's along those words... I realized the importance of just believing and having fun, and not stressing. I have a strong testimony that the Lord can do His own work, we just have to get out of the way, and be instruments.
I can't even describe to you how many hilarious moments I've had this week. I think last night had to top it! We were coming home to do numbers, and we were getting our in betweeners on the way home. I stopped this one girl, haha and I said something along the lines (as I was testifying) Sinä olet Jumalan tytär(you are gods daughter)... wrong... I really said, sinulla on Jumalan tytär(You have god's daughter, or maybe even you are pregnant with gods daughter) AHHHHHHHHHH LANGUAGE HIT TO THE FACE!! She was like uh.. no.. in this scared face, and I gave her our card, and didn't realize what i said, until a few seconds later!! Creepy! hahaha all I could think about after that was YOUR A WIZARD HARRY! Elder Rogers and I laughed it up for the rest of the night. DUUnnccEE!
The T Family are so cool of course. Sister T took Elder Rogers and I to lunch, at this Greek place. I told her the story about when all of us went to the greek festival, with lex and the kids, and Natalie was asking the priest all those probing questions trying to overthrow his dominion haha. (If I join this church, can I recieve this power, or so called priesthood?? ) haha just kidding nat, we love ya. But anyways it was really good. We talked about their situation a little bit. Elder Rogers and I have been praying that The kids dad will soften his heart and let them be baptized. Obviously they have as well, and the Dad is really starting to allow them to come to church. It has been so great.
I love you both so much. I cannot wait to talk to you! Rememer you can get skype, or international calling which will be cheaper. I can't wait to hear your voices, and stuff.
love you all,
Willie
P.s. I really like this quote. Excuses are nothing, but a sign of weakend faith. Whenever I feel like I want to take a short cut, I remember this, and it strengethens me.
November 28, 2011
Another week in SNOW!!
We have been working really hard this week, and the blessings have really been poured out from our Heavenly Father. Our mission president has really been stressing the importance of praying always. When we're outside, in a teach, wherever. So last monday I really tried to take it to heart. We had a very cool experience. While I was riding my bike to a specific area I decided to say a little prayer.
I said, "Heavenly Father, I'm not really sure how I'm suppose to do this, but I pray that thou wilt help us to find those that are ready... or something like that. We felt we should go say hi to one of our investigators in the area. After we were leaving his home, we went outside and as elder rogers was opening his bike, the key broke!! I immediately said, "Why are we here!!?"
We talked for a little bit, and I felt really good about going to a building across the way. We talked about it, and ended up going. As we were tracting I had this amazing feeling that we were in the right place. We came across this door, and it was my turn. I knocked and these two huge black guys answered the door. He asked, "You guys Mormon?" I said, of course haha. He said, "The bible says you cannot serve God, and mormon." I said we don't serve mormon, we serve jesus christ haha. He said, Come in! haha we followed him, and he left us in their living room for a minute. There was a huge sword on the wall!! I leaned over to vanhin rogers, and said while laughing haha We're gonna die!! It was so funny, we started bursting up laughing!
We started teaching him, and he was so prepared!! He kept asking all the questions that we have answers to about life, and god, and everything! And then his other black friend (in a spido) came and started listening! And then this other black guy came and started listening! We found three new investigators. It was such a spiritual teach. I was so grateful for that experience! It was so cool to listen to a prompting and figure out that it was the answer to someone's prolonged prayer.
Elder Rogers is legit! He and I get along so well! We have so much fun doing everything together. Even though sometimes he still stares at me while I sleep... I've learned to accept him for who he is haha. Just kidding! He reminds me a lot of Jace Larsen! (Bytheway can you find out where jace larsen went on his mission?) We literally laugh about everything. He helps me with my finnish so much. The Lord has really been helping me with my finnish. I have been so grateful for his love, and help, and advice. I know I couldn't puhua suomea ilman häntä.
So as far as thanksgiving.... a little awkward. We end up going to this couples house for thanksgiving, and we literally don't know anyone there. I talked to a lot of people, haha. Poor Elder Rogers was on the other side of the room haha. And then they started pulling out the alcohol haha. I just decided we need to finish and leave haha. As we were leaving they asked, Do you want pie to go?? OF COURSE WE DID!! We took it and left. Elder Rogers was a little tipsy, I guess He picked the wrong juice haha. IT was a joke! Chill... He didn't drink anything!
As far as the pictures, thank you so much! They made my day! That is so great! I will make sure and get you our cell phone number. We only have a cell phone, so sorry about that. Make sure and look for a code online that can get you keeper minutes. Elder Weaver told me about it, and his parents only had to pay like 12 cents a minute.
Rakkaudella,
Will
We have been working really hard this week, and the blessings have really been poured out from our Heavenly Father. Our mission president has really been stressing the importance of praying always. When we're outside, in a teach, wherever. So last monday I really tried to take it to heart. We had a very cool experience. While I was riding my bike to a specific area I decided to say a little prayer.
I said, "Heavenly Father, I'm not really sure how I'm suppose to do this, but I pray that thou wilt help us to find those that are ready... or something like that. We felt we should go say hi to one of our investigators in the area. After we were leaving his home, we went outside and as elder rogers was opening his bike, the key broke!! I immediately said, "Why are we here!!?"
We talked for a little bit, and I felt really good about going to a building across the way. We talked about it, and ended up going. As we were tracting I had this amazing feeling that we were in the right place. We came across this door, and it was my turn. I knocked and these two huge black guys answered the door. He asked, "You guys Mormon?" I said, of course haha. He said, "The bible says you cannot serve God, and mormon." I said we don't serve mormon, we serve jesus christ haha. He said, Come in! haha we followed him, and he left us in their living room for a minute. There was a huge sword on the wall!! I leaned over to vanhin rogers, and said while laughing haha We're gonna die!! It was so funny, we started bursting up laughing!
We started teaching him, and he was so prepared!! He kept asking all the questions that we have answers to about life, and god, and everything! And then his other black friend (in a spido) came and started listening! And then this other black guy came and started listening! We found three new investigators. It was such a spiritual teach. I was so grateful for that experience! It was so cool to listen to a prompting and figure out that it was the answer to someone's prolonged prayer.
Elder Rogers is legit! He and I get along so well! We have so much fun doing everything together. Even though sometimes he still stares at me while I sleep... I've learned to accept him for who he is haha. Just kidding! He reminds me a lot of Jace Larsen! (Bytheway can you find out where jace larsen went on his mission?) We literally laugh about everything. He helps me with my finnish so much. The Lord has really been helping me with my finnish. I have been so grateful for his love, and help, and advice. I know I couldn't puhua suomea ilman häntä.
So as far as thanksgiving.... a little awkward. We end up going to this couples house for thanksgiving, and we literally don't know anyone there. I talked to a lot of people, haha. Poor Elder Rogers was on the other side of the room haha. And then they started pulling out the alcohol haha. I just decided we need to finish and leave haha. As we were leaving they asked, Do you want pie to go?? OF COURSE WE DID!! We took it and left. Elder Rogers was a little tipsy, I guess He picked the wrong juice haha. IT was a joke! Chill... He didn't drink anything!
As far as the pictures, thank you so much! They made my day! That is so great! I will make sure and get you our cell phone number. We only have a cell phone, so sorry about that. Make sure and look for a code online that can get you keeper minutes. Elder Weaver told me about it, and his parents only had to pay like 12 cents a minute.
Rakkaudella,
Will
November 21, 2011
IT IS SNOWING LIKE CRAZY HERE!!
I was sitting in compi study, and I looked out the window.... my jaw dropped, and I said, Oh no...... this is an unfortunate change of circumstances haha. Anyways, It is pretty cold haha. But if I say that too a Finn, they look at me with a prideful smile, and say, "oh... not yet haha" I guess the really bad stuff hit's around January, February. Curse those months!! We were riding over here to the library, and the snow was hitting me in the face so bad I couldn't see!! I look so dorkey with my helmet and winter hattuni (hat). It is pretty hilarious though!!
Elder Rogers and I were coming down the elevator with our helmets on haha, and these two really gorgess girls were getting in the elevator as we were coming out... duh... I wear helmet... Hi...uh...cya... hahaha so great!! There are so many ridiculous moments as a missionary where you just think.. what in the world!? But that's kind of the story of my life haha. Anyway's so where do I start??
We had our weekly cordination meeting with our veli järvinen, and I was served a piece of some humble pie!! Mmm.. my favorite. We were talking in finnish, to him (stickler) uh.. hmmm. excuse me... and towards the end of the meeting I asked, "How is my Finnish?" haha, and he gave me the... well... you have a very good vocabulary, but your grammer is horrible! uh... crush... I called sister T later that night for esome reason, and I asked her haha She said, I'm doing fine. THanks... Sister T.
I have been trying to push myself with studying the grammer, but holy timothy! It is crazy. However the Lord has really blessed me. I am doing very good. I love finnish, and I very much hope I can master it. I really want to communicate with people the way they speak, not just understandably. I can already do that now. However I want to speak like they speak.
T and H are doing very good. They didn't come to church on sunday, which means she can't be baptized on the scheduled day. So it's okay we just have to move it back a week. She is completely off tobacco, and coffee, and has commited to pay tithing. She is so elect. I am so grateful for her as an investigator.
Sorry I got kicked off the computer, so I don't have very much time. I guess there is a scheduled course today our something here. Anyways, they reimbursted me for my eye doctors appointment. They payed me back in my account here. So I will just pull the money off the account. President also asked us to keep like 200 Euro's for emergancies at home. So i'm working on doing that.
Anyways, thank you for telling me about Grandma's Mckinney's funeral. I touched my heart to think that she talked about me. It brakes my heart to think I didn't take the time to go see her when I was down there to go through the temple. However I'm glad that she has moved on. All things will work together for good to them that love God. I have a very strong testimony of that. However hopefully one day, I wish to ask for her forgivness.
Please tell grandma huntley how much I love her, and think about her. I wish I could be there to help.
I've learned a few things out here. One thing I've learned is that if your too stressed out, that means your relying on yourself too much. Always remember, He can carry our load.
Love,
Will
P.s. If you could throw some money on my card that would be great. I need to buy some winter things.. I guess now.. haha. Kiitos paljon!!
I was sitting in compi study, and I looked out the window.... my jaw dropped, and I said, Oh no...... this is an unfortunate change of circumstances haha. Anyways, It is pretty cold haha. But if I say that too a Finn, they look at me with a prideful smile, and say, "oh... not yet haha" I guess the really bad stuff hit's around January, February. Curse those months!! We were riding over here to the library, and the snow was hitting me in the face so bad I couldn't see!! I look so dorkey with my helmet and winter hattuni (hat). It is pretty hilarious though!!
Elder Rogers and I were coming down the elevator with our helmets on haha, and these two really gorgess girls were getting in the elevator as we were coming out... duh... I wear helmet... Hi...uh...cya... hahaha so great!! There are so many ridiculous moments as a missionary where you just think.. what in the world!? But that's kind of the story of my life haha. Anyway's so where do I start??
We had our weekly cordination meeting with our veli järvinen, and I was served a piece of some humble pie!! Mmm.. my favorite. We were talking in finnish, to him (stickler) uh.. hmmm. excuse me... and towards the end of the meeting I asked, "How is my Finnish?" haha, and he gave me the... well... you have a very good vocabulary, but your grammer is horrible! uh... crush... I called sister T later that night for esome reason, and I asked her haha She said, I'm doing fine. THanks... Sister T.
I have been trying to push myself with studying the grammer, but holy timothy! It is crazy. However the Lord has really blessed me. I am doing very good. I love finnish, and I very much hope I can master it. I really want to communicate with people the way they speak, not just understandably. I can already do that now. However I want to speak like they speak.
T and H are doing very good. They didn't come to church on sunday, which means she can't be baptized on the scheduled day. So it's okay we just have to move it back a week. She is completely off tobacco, and coffee, and has commited to pay tithing. She is so elect. I am so grateful for her as an investigator.
Sorry I got kicked off the computer, so I don't have very much time. I guess there is a scheduled course today our something here. Anyways, they reimbursted me for my eye doctors appointment. They payed me back in my account here. So I will just pull the money off the account. President also asked us to keep like 200 Euro's for emergancies at home. So i'm working on doing that.
Anyways, thank you for telling me about Grandma's Mckinney's funeral. I touched my heart to think that she talked about me. It brakes my heart to think I didn't take the time to go see her when I was down there to go through the temple. However I'm glad that she has moved on. All things will work together for good to them that love God. I have a very strong testimony of that. However hopefully one day, I wish to ask for her forgivness.
Please tell grandma huntley how much I love her, and think about her. I wish I could be there to help.
I've learned a few things out here. One thing I've learned is that if your too stressed out, that means your relying on yourself too much. Always remember, He can carry our load.
Love,
Will
P.s. If you could throw some money on my card that would be great. I need to buy some winter things.. I guess now.. haha. Kiitos paljon!!
Monday, November 14, 2011
November 14, 2011
Haha well,
This morning has been pretty crazy. I came out of language study to go to the library around 1045am, and we start riding..... Vanhin Rogers bike tire went flat!!! Okay............ improve the shining moments... It's okay we'll just walk. We get to the library.... The computer I chose froze.......... Had to leave and go get groceries in stead haha. But now I'm here, and hopefully I can type out an email on this "computer box thing" before another phone call comes in. Haha now that the spirit is here.
Elder Rogers and I are doing great! We have like the same mind. I don't know how many times we've related Ewoks from starwars to the gospel. Whenever I loose him, we just do the chewbacca noise and find each other... joke..... But seriously.. one word.. Hilarious. He is a great missionary, and I'm grateful to be his companion.
It's getting pretty cold here!! I resorted to my thermals from Cabella's, which are so nice by the way. I didn't want to get to that point yet, but I did it. There are some night we come out of a teach, and the wind is blowing, bitter, bitter cold! I just take a deep breath, here we go.......... but it's pretty fun. The only thing harder than trying to speak finnish like a finn, is trying to do it when your jaw is frozen haha. But it's pretty hilarious. I'M LOVIN IT! Wouldn't be anywhere else, with anyone else. Except maybe...... well Han Solo on the Milenium Falcon, but that's a different story. Or in a P-51! Wow those pictures were great! 5 points to DAd!
We had our Six month language school down in Helsinki last thursday. Elder Larsen and I (he was in the mtc with me) kept making each other laugh all night haha. We kept talking about the MTC days and about how dumb we were! It was so cool to go down south for a day, and see all my buddies from the MTC. Elder Orr.. Uhhh... haha he is so funny. It's so funny because in the MTC I didn't like him at all. But now we're really good friends. He is soaring at the language. I went in for my interview with the language cordinator, and haha he threw a suprise. Teach in finnish! Uh.. well... okay... so at the end of the little test, the first thing he said was, "Elder Perry your such a good missionary... uh... keep going... EPIC FAIL!! So I was pretty frustrated, I left Helsinki and was sitting on the train just blown away, I felt like am I making any progress at all? Then I realized Grandma Huntley sent me a Dear Elder, and I decided to read it then. It meant so much to me that I got it. She saved my day that day. I felt like Heavenly Father was speaking to me through her testimony.
Things have been going very well with T and H. H will still be baptized on the 3rd of December. Maybe we can even get her in the water sooner! She is so prepared. We have really been trying to help them get over the past. It is amazing to see how the Lord works with people to help them to recieve the gospel. I was thinking about how important it is just to believe. Missionary work is so child-like. We just do what Heavenly Father asks, because we love Him, and we know He loves us. Sometimes it's hard to find belief, but if we just try.... we'll find it.
I'm so sorry to here about Grandma Mckinney. One thing I do regret is not taking the time to go see her after I recieved my endowment. I know these things come out when it's too late, but I have felt bad about that. I will make sure and send her an email today.
As far as the family I am working with. I got their pictures and everything. I'll send you those today, and ya.... I think that she would really like that apron.
As far as christmas presents, I would like pictures of you guys, with letters from everyone including extended family. I want it in a box, no email,... in a packetti that comes to my apartment. I want one from dad, and one from mom, with letters from everyone. There will be no sharing christmas haha. I want one phone call from mom, and that side of the family. I want a seperate call from Dad and His side of the family. No sharing. It's a benefit of divorce haha. However the change ends the week before christmas on like the 16th of December.
well,
love you all
will
This morning has been pretty crazy. I came out of language study to go to the library around 1045am, and we start riding..... Vanhin Rogers bike tire went flat!!! Okay............ improve the shining moments... It's okay we'll just walk. We get to the library.... The computer I chose froze.......... Had to leave and go get groceries in stead haha. But now I'm here, and hopefully I can type out an email on this "computer box thing" before another phone call comes in. Haha now that the spirit is here.
Elder Rogers and I are doing great! We have like the same mind. I don't know how many times we've related Ewoks from starwars to the gospel. Whenever I loose him, we just do the chewbacca noise and find each other... joke..... But seriously.. one word.. Hilarious. He is a great missionary, and I'm grateful to be his companion.
It's getting pretty cold here!! I resorted to my thermals from Cabella's, which are so nice by the way. I didn't want to get to that point yet, but I did it. There are some night we come out of a teach, and the wind is blowing, bitter, bitter cold! I just take a deep breath, here we go.......... but it's pretty fun. The only thing harder than trying to speak finnish like a finn, is trying to do it when your jaw is frozen haha. But it's pretty hilarious. I'M LOVIN IT! Wouldn't be anywhere else, with anyone else. Except maybe...... well Han Solo on the Milenium Falcon, but that's a different story. Or in a P-51! Wow those pictures were great! 5 points to DAd!
We had our Six month language school down in Helsinki last thursday. Elder Larsen and I (he was in the mtc with me) kept making each other laugh all night haha. We kept talking about the MTC days and about how dumb we were! It was so cool to go down south for a day, and see all my buddies from the MTC. Elder Orr.. Uhhh... haha he is so funny. It's so funny because in the MTC I didn't like him at all. But now we're really good friends. He is soaring at the language. I went in for my interview with the language cordinator, and haha he threw a suprise. Teach in finnish! Uh.. well... okay... so at the end of the little test, the first thing he said was, "Elder Perry your such a good missionary... uh... keep going... EPIC FAIL!! So I was pretty frustrated, I left Helsinki and was sitting on the train just blown away, I felt like am I making any progress at all? Then I realized Grandma Huntley sent me a Dear Elder, and I decided to read it then. It meant so much to me that I got it. She saved my day that day. I felt like Heavenly Father was speaking to me through her testimony.
Things have been going very well with T and H. H will still be baptized on the 3rd of December. Maybe we can even get her in the water sooner! She is so prepared. We have really been trying to help them get over the past. It is amazing to see how the Lord works with people to help them to recieve the gospel. I was thinking about how important it is just to believe. Missionary work is so child-like. We just do what Heavenly Father asks, because we love Him, and we know He loves us. Sometimes it's hard to find belief, but if we just try.... we'll find it.
I'm so sorry to here about Grandma Mckinney. One thing I do regret is not taking the time to go see her after I recieved my endowment. I know these things come out when it's too late, but I have felt bad about that. I will make sure and send her an email today.
As far as the family I am working with. I got their pictures and everything. I'll send you those today, and ya.... I think that she would really like that apron.
As far as christmas presents, I would like pictures of you guys, with letters from everyone including extended family. I want it in a box, no email,... in a packetti that comes to my apartment. I want one from dad, and one from mom, with letters from everyone. There will be no sharing christmas haha. I want one phone call from mom, and that side of the family. I want a seperate call from Dad and His side of the family. No sharing. It's a benefit of divorce haha. However the change ends the week before christmas on like the 16th of December.
well,
love you all
will
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
November 7, 2011
Helloooo Vietnam!!!
So this week has been pretty cool. It has been so hilarious. My new companion................................... Legit! He reminds me a lot of my old friend Jace Larson. He really pushes me to want to be a better just more obediant missionary. I have learned so much from him just in this past week! He speaks amazing finnish, and sometimes I'm the one asking Him for help. I feel like that guy in school who wakes up in the middle of the chemistry lesson gasping for air, wondering where he is, and not knowing why he's there haha. HAHA I was that guy in school!! But all in all, things are pretty sweet.
Yesterday I was sitting in personal study and I wanted to talk to you guys so bad!! Then I realized next month is December!! I can't believe it's almost Christmas! well that's a lie.......... it's freezing over here!! Are we all sure that hell is hot?? haha joke.. hmm.. (girggle in the throat)......... haha that rymned. I don't think I would be very good at writing to the gentiles like Nephi, or John, or any of those prophets. They would say things like Repent!, and They spoke really poetically.... Maybe that's why Heavenly Father saved me for this time, so I wouldn't be put in that situation haha.
So I found out that that name Eddie used to always call me (namely Wilamina) is a name here haha. It is actually a girls name in my ward................. She goes by Villi......... hmm.... maybe we should come up with something different. It was really awkward talking to her about it yesterday, and explaining that my family called me wilamina... this is an awkward change of circumstances. But all in all, things are so hilarious.
We had some really cool experiences. We're rejected like crazy!!! However we have really been trying to follow President Rawlings counsel on using the Book of Mormon in everything we do. I love contacting so much haha It is hilarious. I like to make it not weird though. It is so cool just walking up to someone casual, and teach, bear testimony, and get out. Some of the best contacts, and tracts, have been in less than one minute haha.
Yesterday was kind of a trying day so to speak. We had four appointements lined up, and none of them worked out. Sister T and her children came to the church to be taught, but we couldn't teach them because the member didn't show up. We can't teach single women without another male with us. That rule drove me crazy yesterday, but we had to obey it! I called her that night, and apologized. She wasn't mad at us, and she was so nice about it. I am so grateful for sister T, and her kids. I bore my testimony in church yesterday, and talked about how she helped me so much. The thought came to my mind. Sometimes when life get's hard, Our Heavenly Father sends angels to lift us back up.
She has helped me so much here, in so many countless ways. I don't even know what I can do to repay her. Even if I tried she wouldn't take it. Talk about a saint. She has endured so many things, and yet she is always looking to help others. I think one of the hardest things about being on a mission, is the fact that someday it's going to end. I will probably never see them again.. at least for a long time. It crushes my heart. But on the brightside that's not for awhile!!
As far as baptismal books, tell me what you want to write for each page so I can congegate and write it for you. Google translator won't give you the correct meaning. There are so many different ways to say things, and Finn's speak, and say things different than we do haha. I still don't understand it yet!! However I will get there school pictures, and stuff, and American candy... Idk.... probably like swedish fish, sour patch kids, and yaa... I Got it!
All else is going well. T and H came to church yesterday for the first time. T talked to the bishop, and H, is on tract for baptism the day before your birthday mom. I am so excited! The turuset also may be baptized soon. All is moving forward!!
love you,
will
So this week has been pretty cool. It has been so hilarious. My new companion................................... Legit! He reminds me a lot of my old friend Jace Larson. He really pushes me to want to be a better just more obediant missionary. I have learned so much from him just in this past week! He speaks amazing finnish, and sometimes I'm the one asking Him for help. I feel like that guy in school who wakes up in the middle of the chemistry lesson gasping for air, wondering where he is, and not knowing why he's there haha. HAHA I was that guy in school!! But all in all, things are pretty sweet.
Yesterday I was sitting in personal study and I wanted to talk to you guys so bad!! Then I realized next month is December!! I can't believe it's almost Christmas! well that's a lie.......... it's freezing over here!! Are we all sure that hell is hot?? haha joke.. hmm.. (girggle in the throat)......... haha that rymned. I don't think I would be very good at writing to the gentiles like Nephi, or John, or any of those prophets. They would say things like Repent!, and They spoke really poetically.... Maybe that's why Heavenly Father saved me for this time, so I wouldn't be put in that situation haha.
So I found out that that name Eddie used to always call me (namely Wilamina) is a name here haha. It is actually a girls name in my ward................. She goes by Villi......... hmm.... maybe we should come up with something different. It was really awkward talking to her about it yesterday, and explaining that my family called me wilamina... this is an awkward change of circumstances. But all in all, things are so hilarious.
We had some really cool experiences. We're rejected like crazy!!! However we have really been trying to follow President Rawlings counsel on using the Book of Mormon in everything we do. I love contacting so much haha It is hilarious. I like to make it not weird though. It is so cool just walking up to someone casual, and teach, bear testimony, and get out. Some of the best contacts, and tracts, have been in less than one minute haha.
Yesterday was kind of a trying day so to speak. We had four appointements lined up, and none of them worked out. Sister T and her children came to the church to be taught, but we couldn't teach them because the member didn't show up. We can't teach single women without another male with us. That rule drove me crazy yesterday, but we had to obey it! I called her that night, and apologized. She wasn't mad at us, and she was so nice about it. I am so grateful for sister T, and her kids. I bore my testimony in church yesterday, and talked about how she helped me so much. The thought came to my mind. Sometimes when life get's hard, Our Heavenly Father sends angels to lift us back up.
She has helped me so much here, in so many countless ways. I don't even know what I can do to repay her. Even if I tried she wouldn't take it. Talk about a saint. She has endured so many things, and yet she is always looking to help others. I think one of the hardest things about being on a mission, is the fact that someday it's going to end. I will probably never see them again.. at least for a long time. It crushes my heart. But on the brightside that's not for awhile!!
As far as baptismal books, tell me what you want to write for each page so I can congegate and write it for you. Google translator won't give you the correct meaning. There are so many different ways to say things, and Finn's speak, and say things different than we do haha. I still don't understand it yet!! However I will get there school pictures, and stuff, and American candy... Idk.... probably like swedish fish, sour patch kids, and yaa... I Got it!
All else is going well. T and H came to church yesterday for the first time. T talked to the bishop, and H, is on tract for baptism the day before your birthday mom. I am so excited! The turuset also may be baptized soon. All is moving forward!!
love you,
will
Monday, October 31, 2011
October 31, 2011
Haha I have been reading emails for the last twenty minutes or so haha.
I have had the funniest week, and have recieved some new assignments!!!!!! First of all, change calls.................. where could it be?????????................ Tampere,......... Oulu,............. Helsinki.................................... Training......................... sitting with President in an interview.................. and he says...................(drum roll)................. .................... Joensuu. HAHAA I guess the Lord likes the work I'm doing here. My new companion's name is Elder Rogers. He came with Elder Manwaring in his group. I'm pretty nervous because my finnish is okay, but not fluent haha. Well..... Life goes on. Whenever I'm on the phone and someone says something I don't understand, I just kind of laugh, and say, sorry I don't understand you haha. Hilarious!!!!
However First things first....... today Vanhin Weaver and I were playing Finnish Monopoly (We do it for language study on P-day). I won!!!! (Beware of Pride boy). I was getting so mad, and in Finnish I said, "You can't make up rules!!!" haha It was getting so intense. Elder Weaver and I really almost skipped email today. I was getting ready to throw him off our balcony!!! (insert throat clearing sound) uh.. hmm.. it was pretty cool. On to the gospel..... I was reading in the Book of Isaiah when I came across a very interesting passage talking about the how the children of Israel will return to the mother land in the latter.............................................Dad wake up and keep reading!!!!! That was a J.K.
Anyways, Things with H and T are still going very good. I drew out a baptismal calender for her, and she is so excited to be baptized on the 3rd of Dec. I had a very cool experience with them. We taught them the plan of salvation, and we got to the three kingdoms. We paused and asked them, what would it mean to them if they could be together for all eternity. They stopped talking. T the husband looked his wife in the eyes, and she looked back at him. They looked back at us, and with the most love and compasion I have ever seen they said humbly, "That is what we would really like." It touched my heart. I gained a new perspective on family relationships and what they should be. I am so grateful for the gospel!! I walked out of that teach feeling like I was standing on top of the world!
I really am so excited that I get to stay in Joensuu. I was kind of looking forward to new experiences in a different city, but I know that's not the Lords will right now. I know that there is a lot of work to do here. As I think about it, it causes me to want to shrink haha. But I just keep going forward, trying to do my best.
Are you all ready for W.D.D.T.W. (William's Dumb Doing This Week). Actually there's two, and they have to do with the mission president!! We were sitting in a meeting, and Sister Rawlings was explaining something with words I didn't understand haha. I asked what does this mean?? She replied using another word I didn't understand haha. That's when I sat back in my chair, and was like Oh.. of course that's what it means!!! Looking side to side, and pulling the collar of my shirt. Wow it's hot in here!! Second WDDTW. We picked President and Sister Rawlings up from there hotel in Kuopio, and went to the church for District Conference. President got out of the car, and it looked like he forgot his bag. I grabbed it (with him watching) and followed him inside. I asked, President, where would you like this? He turned around, and with his loving voice said, "IN THE CAR!!"
Nice Elder Perry. hahahah .... next assignment. Elder Perry we have a nice assignment for you in the mission office... sorting mail.... where you wont have to be confused, and no one will get hurt. Actually... maybe the mail is a little big......... you can be in charge of getting juice for the mission president.
Daddy!! I don't want to be juice boy!!
Everything sounds like it's going very good! I got your package mom, and I hung the halloween skeleton over our front door. His legs are kind of spred out between our mail slot, which makes it kind of awkward for posti mies to give us our mail haha. I actually haven't recieved any letters the past few days................ hmm..................
But thank you so much for everything. It made my morning when I got it during comp study.
It sounds like you and Mike, are really busy remodeling the house! It's like TLC on steroids! way to go for you. I am excited to see it someday. I can't believe this change is over almost. I'm going into my fifth change! I will be going down to Helsinki next month for my sixth month kieli koulu (language school). That is about when you start to be old in the mission. I am really excited for Elder Rogers, He sounds like a stud. President said that he lived in russia for a year, so his special assignment is to study a little bit of russian each day, which means I get extra language study too!! We are going to do great things. President told us specifics for Joensuu, which I wont talk about. It can be done, and it will be done. STOOcked!!!
As far as sister Turunen mommy. If you can find them in finnish then send them in finnish, but english is fine as well. Just send them candy, and whatever you think is necessary for Sister Turunen. They are so great. I love them so much. I talk to them all the time, and they are so sweet. I will get their address to you in the mail today when I write natalie back.
I love you all so much! Rauha.
Will
I have had the funniest week, and have recieved some new assignments!!!!!! First of all, change calls.................. where could it be?????????................ Tampere,......... Oulu,............. Helsinki.................................... Training......................... sitting with President in an interview.................. and he says...................(drum roll)................. .................... Joensuu. HAHAA I guess the Lord likes the work I'm doing here. My new companion's name is Elder Rogers. He came with Elder Manwaring in his group. I'm pretty nervous because my finnish is okay, but not fluent haha. Well..... Life goes on. Whenever I'm on the phone and someone says something I don't understand, I just kind of laugh, and say, sorry I don't understand you haha. Hilarious!!!!
However First things first....... today Vanhin Weaver and I were playing Finnish Monopoly (We do it for language study on P-day). I won!!!! (Beware of Pride boy). I was getting so mad, and in Finnish I said, "You can't make up rules!!!" haha It was getting so intense. Elder Weaver and I really almost skipped email today. I was getting ready to throw him off our balcony!!! (insert throat clearing sound) uh.. hmm.. it was pretty cool. On to the gospel..... I was reading in the Book of Isaiah when I came across a very interesting passage talking about the how the children of Israel will return to the mother land in the latter.............................................Dad wake up and keep reading!!!!! That was a J.K.
Anyways, Things with H and T are still going very good. I drew out a baptismal calender for her, and she is so excited to be baptized on the 3rd of Dec. I had a very cool experience with them. We taught them the plan of salvation, and we got to the three kingdoms. We paused and asked them, what would it mean to them if they could be together for all eternity. They stopped talking. T the husband looked his wife in the eyes, and she looked back at him. They looked back at us, and with the most love and compasion I have ever seen they said humbly, "That is what we would really like." It touched my heart. I gained a new perspective on family relationships and what they should be. I am so grateful for the gospel!! I walked out of that teach feeling like I was standing on top of the world!
I really am so excited that I get to stay in Joensuu. I was kind of looking forward to new experiences in a different city, but I know that's not the Lords will right now. I know that there is a lot of work to do here. As I think about it, it causes me to want to shrink haha. But I just keep going forward, trying to do my best.
Are you all ready for W.D.D.T.W. (William's Dumb Doing This Week). Actually there's two, and they have to do with the mission president!! We were sitting in a meeting, and Sister Rawlings was explaining something with words I didn't understand haha. I asked what does this mean?? She replied using another word I didn't understand haha. That's when I sat back in my chair, and was like Oh.. of course that's what it means!!! Looking side to side, and pulling the collar of my shirt. Wow it's hot in here!! Second WDDTW. We picked President and Sister Rawlings up from there hotel in Kuopio, and went to the church for District Conference. President got out of the car, and it looked like he forgot his bag. I grabbed it (with him watching) and followed him inside. I asked, President, where would you like this? He turned around, and with his loving voice said, "IN THE CAR!!"
Nice Elder Perry. hahahah .... next assignment. Elder Perry we have a nice assignment for you in the mission office... sorting mail.... where you wont have to be confused, and no one will get hurt. Actually... maybe the mail is a little big......... you can be in charge of getting juice for the mission president.
Daddy!! I don't want to be juice boy!!
Everything sounds like it's going very good! I got your package mom, and I hung the halloween skeleton over our front door. His legs are kind of spred out between our mail slot, which makes it kind of awkward for posti mies to give us our mail haha. I actually haven't recieved any letters the past few days................ hmm..................
But thank you so much for everything. It made my morning when I got it during comp study.
It sounds like you and Mike, are really busy remodeling the house! It's like TLC on steroids! way to go for you. I am excited to see it someday. I can't believe this change is over almost. I'm going into my fifth change! I will be going down to Helsinki next month for my sixth month kieli koulu (language school). That is about when you start to be old in the mission. I am really excited for Elder Rogers, He sounds like a stud. President said that he lived in russia for a year, so his special assignment is to study a little bit of russian each day, which means I get extra language study too!! We are going to do great things. President told us specifics for Joensuu, which I wont talk about. It can be done, and it will be done. STOOcked!!!
As far as sister Turunen mommy. If you can find them in finnish then send them in finnish, but english is fine as well. Just send them candy, and whatever you think is necessary for Sister Turunen. They are so great. I love them so much. I talk to them all the time, and they are so sweet. I will get their address to you in the mail today when I write natalie back.
I love you all so much! Rauha.
Will
October 24, 2011
THis week has been a very good week. It has been a very hard week, but I have learned so much from it. We only had 1 member teach, and 4 other teaches. It was kind of rough. However I have felt the Lords loving help as I have simply tried to put my heart into the work.
Mom, I remember one day that was really hard, however I decided not to get frustrated. I felt like I should grab the letter that you wrote to me on my Birthday the night before I entered the MTC. I was so grateful for your words, and the things you told me to do. I took it to heart, and really tried to do my best in those difficult situations. The Lord has really been shaping us, and helping us to be better missionaries. I have really been trying to listen to His voice. As I have tried, I have been able to recieve the inspiration that I've needed. I know that He communicates with His Missionaries. I can't describe the reality of the counsel, and comfort given. You can't make up these feelings, and words. I know it's true.
To follow up with last week, H and T (I'm not sure what the rule is on sharring names) are doing so great! We met with them yesterday, and things are so well. We had planned to teach the Plan of Salvation, however the Spirit led us to different topics. On an off note. Dad I remember you telling me the story about how you helped a less active family return to the church and eventually going through the temple. I have really been hoping for an opportunity to help a specific family go to the temlpe. Anyways this was it! That is H and T's goal. They want ot be sealed for eternity. We helped them realize their potential. They felt like they weren't worthy to come back. The Spirit testified to them that this wasn't true. We felt the Lord speak through us to them. The Lord is so proud of them, and what they are doing in their lives!! They are so special. I love them so much.
The Lord taught me a very important lesson this week. "Whom the Lord loveth, He chaseneth." I have felt the importance of accepting the Lords correction, and taking it to heart. I was studying last night right before my nightly prayers, and I came across a really good scripture in the Book of Proverbs it's chapter 9. It says, "Rebuke a wise man, and He will love thee." I found this scripture right after I had recieved personal counsel for what I need to be doing better. I really have learned the importance of seeking correction, and doing it with charity. Sometimes the Lord corrects us through another (companion, friend, leader... etc). It is so important to just keep a good attitude about it. I have noticed that when I recieve correction, and I laugh about it, and just try and do better, it is so much easier to take.
I have been loving life here. I have really found the joy that comes from choosing faith. Although some things are uncertain about the future, I do know that we can be happy in any situation. Today for language study Vanhin Weaver and i played finnish Monopoly in Finnish haha. "It's four in the morning grandma...... you win!!!!!! (I didn't stay up late.. just a quote, joke..........) It was super hard!! Right about the time I was winning, He came back and destroyed me! I got mad at him in Finnish haha.
I have a few questions, mom.. Why didn't you email!?? Second, Where is Jace Larson going on His mission? Third is more of a statement... Don't send packages until I give you the clear. Change call day is in like a week and a half. I will find out if I recieve one this saturday. I have been in Joensuu for 4 changes or 5.5 months. Jumpi Kumpi, not sure if I'll leave or stay. I want to stay because I love the people in this city so much. Their are so many people I will stay in touch with here for well.... eternity haha. I do want knew experiences and stuff however. Well we'll see.
Rakkaudella
The blue elephant on star wars who is playing the piano in Jabbas palace (eli Vanhin Perry).
Mom, I remember one day that was really hard, however I decided not to get frustrated. I felt like I should grab the letter that you wrote to me on my Birthday the night before I entered the MTC. I was so grateful for your words, and the things you told me to do. I took it to heart, and really tried to do my best in those difficult situations. The Lord has really been shaping us, and helping us to be better missionaries. I have really been trying to listen to His voice. As I have tried, I have been able to recieve the inspiration that I've needed. I know that He communicates with His Missionaries. I can't describe the reality of the counsel, and comfort given. You can't make up these feelings, and words. I know it's true.
To follow up with last week, H and T (I'm not sure what the rule is on sharring names) are doing so great! We met with them yesterday, and things are so well. We had planned to teach the Plan of Salvation, however the Spirit led us to different topics. On an off note. Dad I remember you telling me the story about how you helped a less active family return to the church and eventually going through the temple. I have really been hoping for an opportunity to help a specific family go to the temlpe. Anyways this was it! That is H and T's goal. They want ot be sealed for eternity. We helped them realize their potential. They felt like they weren't worthy to come back. The Spirit testified to them that this wasn't true. We felt the Lord speak through us to them. The Lord is so proud of them, and what they are doing in their lives!! They are so special. I love them so much.
The Lord taught me a very important lesson this week. "Whom the Lord loveth, He chaseneth." I have felt the importance of accepting the Lords correction, and taking it to heart. I was studying last night right before my nightly prayers, and I came across a really good scripture in the Book of Proverbs it's chapter 9. It says, "Rebuke a wise man, and He will love thee." I found this scripture right after I had recieved personal counsel for what I need to be doing better. I really have learned the importance of seeking correction, and doing it with charity. Sometimes the Lord corrects us through another (companion, friend, leader... etc). It is so important to just keep a good attitude about it. I have noticed that when I recieve correction, and I laugh about it, and just try and do better, it is so much easier to take.
I have been loving life here. I have really found the joy that comes from choosing faith. Although some things are uncertain about the future, I do know that we can be happy in any situation. Today for language study Vanhin Weaver and i played finnish Monopoly in Finnish haha. "It's four in the morning grandma...... you win!!!!!! (I didn't stay up late.. just a quote, joke..........) It was super hard!! Right about the time I was winning, He came back and destroyed me! I got mad at him in Finnish haha.
I have a few questions, mom.. Why didn't you email!?? Second, Where is Jace Larson going on His mission? Third is more of a statement... Don't send packages until I give you the clear. Change call day is in like a week and a half. I will find out if I recieve one this saturday. I have been in Joensuu for 4 changes or 5.5 months. Jumpi Kumpi, not sure if I'll leave or stay. I want to stay because I love the people in this city so much. Their are so many people I will stay in touch with here for well.... eternity haha. I do want knew experiences and stuff however. Well we'll see.
Rakkaudella
The blue elephant on star wars who is playing the piano in Jabbas palace (eli Vanhin Perry).
Monday, October 17, 2011
October 17, 2011
Hello There,
I have know idea where to start my letter today. All I can say is I have recieved so many answers to my prayers this week. This week has been pretty hard haha. It seemed as though all these different problems were mounting on my back. However one by one they were much more easier to handle as I turned to the Lord. Heaven touched my heart this week.
First of all, my bike situation hahaha... I NEED A BIKE SO UNBELIEVEABLY BAD!!! Joensuu is a bike city, and we don't have a car. I decided instead of getting discouraged or mad to just go pray. I went, and explained the situation to Heavenly Father, and then I just continued doing everything I could. The very day, I called a member to see if I could borrow His bike for ahwile. He said of course!! That was a temporary answer! But it get's even better.
The Kuopio Elder's (Our District leader) came down for splits on friday. In the morning we went over to a sister's house to do service. We helped her to tear down her sauna so they can remodal. I was so grateful for the opportunity to help her. We had so much fun, tearing wood down, and pulling the nails out, and all that different stuff. She was so grateful, and she made us a really good lunch. During the service she said, Elder Perry, come look at this bike (She knew that mine was broken). I checked it out and it was in really good condition. I rode it a little, and went back inside, and asked "Thank you so much! How much do you want for it?" She said, We'll talk about it later, with a big smile on her face. Hahah it was so funny. She said, "I want to share a spiritual thought with you all." So she sat us down, and pulled out her "Teachings of President David O Mckay book" and began talking about how God pays us back when we give service to others. She looked at me, and said,"Elder Perry, do you believe God will pay me back if I serve you?" of course I replied yes. She went on to say, Let me serve you, and give you my bike for free. I was so grateful. I still am. My Heavenly Father heard my prayer. She went on to say how she came home the night after she found out my bike was broken and opened right to that page in President Mckay's book. I'm picking up the bike today.
We had so much fun on spilts. Vanhin Cassity and I went and first went to a sister's office to give her a letter from another missionary that came to our apartment. We met up with her, and haha it was so hilarious. This particular missionary was the one who baptized her. I believe. She read the letter outloud and the whole time Vanhin Cassity and I were like, "Has He proposed!!!???" she was like, not yet haha. After she finished I said, let's read in between the lines haha. She is so funny. I call her my big sister haha. Everytime she calls us or we call her, she says my little brother haha. I used to get so nervous when I taught her for the first few times. However no one get any idea's!! I already decided that There is no one in Finland who I would pursue anything with. I'm not here for that haha.
Following that visit, we went down to teach a less active investigator and his non member wife. They are so great! The impression came at the beginning of the lesson to commit her to baptism. I waited awhile, and it's almost like the spirit led them to say what the Lord wanted them to say. We talked about the temple, and how I want a picture of them when they go through!! They want to be sealed together for eterenity. The man said, "I want to recieve the Melchezidek Priesthood, and the wife said, "I want to follow in the foot-steps of my husband." one word............GOLDEN!!! The spirit was there fo sho. haha
The last experience happened on saturday, and was pretty rough. We had four teaches planned for the day. Everything was planned around these teaches, so we were pretty busy. However I want to share what happened during the second teach of the day. We went to a DA in a potential's home for lunch, and a lesson. He was very nice on the street, and when we came into his home he was nice. We talked a little bit, and sat down to eat. He asked the question, "Why don't you believe in the Koran?" My companion said kind of an indirect answer, but didn't really answer the question. The mantle was on me. I felt like Jake Heaps, fourth quarter against the Utes haha except doing good. anyways, I said bodly but with love,"We know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." From there things went down hill... He went on calling us servants of the Devil, saying how the reason we feel good inside is because we are "good servants of him." I tried to contain myself. He asked how could you know such a thing? I looked him in the eye, and said with all my heart, "Through personal experience, and personal revelation I know that He lives. I don't dare to deny what I know. I know you can know too." Then he changed the subject to how arrogant I am, and I was just like whatever. I just tried to love him, and we left.
I have been reflecting on that experience for the last little while. I was a little down trodden, but as I turned to the Lord He comforted me. Sometimes it's not easy saying those kinds of things to people, however they have to be said. We can't be casual about our beliefs. It is very important to respect other peoples' religions, and not try and find fault with them. However when we teach, we teach in the attitude of this is what happened, and this is why it happened. There is no other way. We do it with love, but nevertheless we do it.
I was so happy to here about the house mommy. It sounds like you've been busy with everything. I remember your Disney Christmas Fireplace thing, and I also remember Mike shaking his head everytime it was put on haha. I haven't recieved any letters from him by the way! Tell him He is not getting anymore finnish stuff until I get a letter haha. Not an email, a letter. By the way, I have more for him.
I remember dad when we went to Virgina. When I'm riding my bike I sometimes think about when we went camping, or hunting (illegally) or all of the fun stuff we went to do. I miss those days so much, but it's all good. They'll come again.
I miss you both so much. Today is my Fifth month in Finland, and no....... I am not fluent haha. But someday......... I hope soon.
Rakkaudella,
Willie
I have know idea where to start my letter today. All I can say is I have recieved so many answers to my prayers this week. This week has been pretty hard haha. It seemed as though all these different problems were mounting on my back. However one by one they were much more easier to handle as I turned to the Lord. Heaven touched my heart this week.
First of all, my bike situation hahaha... I NEED A BIKE SO UNBELIEVEABLY BAD!!! Joensuu is a bike city, and we don't have a car. I decided instead of getting discouraged or mad to just go pray. I went, and explained the situation to Heavenly Father, and then I just continued doing everything I could. The very day, I called a member to see if I could borrow His bike for ahwile. He said of course!! That was a temporary answer! But it get's even better.
The Kuopio Elder's (Our District leader) came down for splits on friday. In the morning we went over to a sister's house to do service. We helped her to tear down her sauna so they can remodal. I was so grateful for the opportunity to help her. We had so much fun, tearing wood down, and pulling the nails out, and all that different stuff. She was so grateful, and she made us a really good lunch. During the service she said, Elder Perry, come look at this bike (She knew that mine was broken). I checked it out and it was in really good condition. I rode it a little, and went back inside, and asked "Thank you so much! How much do you want for it?" She said, We'll talk about it later, with a big smile on her face. Hahah it was so funny. She said, "I want to share a spiritual thought with you all." So she sat us down, and pulled out her "Teachings of President David O Mckay book" and began talking about how God pays us back when we give service to others. She looked at me, and said,"Elder Perry, do you believe God will pay me back if I serve you?" of course I replied yes. She went on to say, Let me serve you, and give you my bike for free. I was so grateful. I still am. My Heavenly Father heard my prayer. She went on to say how she came home the night after she found out my bike was broken and opened right to that page in President Mckay's book. I'm picking up the bike today.
We had so much fun on spilts. Vanhin Cassity and I went and first went to a sister's office to give her a letter from another missionary that came to our apartment. We met up with her, and haha it was so hilarious. This particular missionary was the one who baptized her. I believe. She read the letter outloud and the whole time Vanhin Cassity and I were like, "Has He proposed!!!???" she was like, not yet haha. After she finished I said, let's read in between the lines haha. She is so funny. I call her my big sister haha. Everytime she calls us or we call her, she says my little brother haha. I used to get so nervous when I taught her for the first few times. However no one get any idea's!! I already decided that There is no one in Finland who I would pursue anything with. I'm not here for that haha.
Following that visit, we went down to teach a less active investigator and his non member wife. They are so great! The impression came at the beginning of the lesson to commit her to baptism. I waited awhile, and it's almost like the spirit led them to say what the Lord wanted them to say. We talked about the temple, and how I want a picture of them when they go through!! They want to be sealed together for eterenity. The man said, "I want to recieve the Melchezidek Priesthood, and the wife said, "I want to follow in the foot-steps of my husband." one word............GOLDEN!!! The spirit was there fo sho. haha
The last experience happened on saturday, and was pretty rough. We had four teaches planned for the day. Everything was planned around these teaches, so we were pretty busy. However I want to share what happened during the second teach of the day. We went to a DA in a potential's home for lunch, and a lesson. He was very nice on the street, and when we came into his home he was nice. We talked a little bit, and sat down to eat. He asked the question, "Why don't you believe in the Koran?" My companion said kind of an indirect answer, but didn't really answer the question. The mantle was on me. I felt like Jake Heaps, fourth quarter against the Utes haha except doing good. anyways, I said bodly but with love,"We know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." From there things went down hill... He went on calling us servants of the Devil, saying how the reason we feel good inside is because we are "good servants of him." I tried to contain myself. He asked how could you know such a thing? I looked him in the eye, and said with all my heart, "Through personal experience, and personal revelation I know that He lives. I don't dare to deny what I know. I know you can know too." Then he changed the subject to how arrogant I am, and I was just like whatever. I just tried to love him, and we left.
I have been reflecting on that experience for the last little while. I was a little down trodden, but as I turned to the Lord He comforted me. Sometimes it's not easy saying those kinds of things to people, however they have to be said. We can't be casual about our beliefs. It is very important to respect other peoples' religions, and not try and find fault with them. However when we teach, we teach in the attitude of this is what happened, and this is why it happened. There is no other way. We do it with love, but nevertheless we do it.
I was so happy to here about the house mommy. It sounds like you've been busy with everything. I remember your Disney Christmas Fireplace thing, and I also remember Mike shaking his head everytime it was put on haha. I haven't recieved any letters from him by the way! Tell him He is not getting anymore finnish stuff until I get a letter haha. Not an email, a letter. By the way, I have more for him.
I remember dad when we went to Virgina. When I'm riding my bike I sometimes think about when we went camping, or hunting (illegally) or all of the fun stuff we went to do. I miss those days so much, but it's all good. They'll come again.
I miss you both so much. Today is my Fifth month in Finland, and no....... I am not fluent haha. But someday......... I hope soon.
Rakkaudella,
Willie
October 10, 2011
Heeellloooooo Rakas Vanhemmani!!! the (HEeellooooo) is just hello exaggerated. haha
Anyways where do I start!!!!! This week has been ridiculous haha fun, crazy, stressful,..... all of the ingrediants to make one want to get into the corner of his/ her bedroom, and cry for two hours... (which I didn't do). Kuitenkin, moving forward.... We made some changes here in the work in Joensuu. Vanhin Weaver and I have really been trying to push ourselves to do things more in the Lords manner. Particualry with holding on to investigators. Our purpose is to find, teach, and baptize those who are ready to recieve the restored gospel, and are willing to act on the message we share. At one point we went from like 10 to 8 to eventually around 2 investigators. Some of these people I have known since my arrival into Finland. It was definately a step of faith... however the blessings we recieved far outstretch the sacrifices we had to make. This week cannot be described in any other word other than "miracle." I would say that word in finnish, but the fact is.... I don't know it in finnish.. hmmm.. (insert clearing throat action... copy.. paste).
One thing I can say is, I HAVE BEEN SO HAPPY THIS WEEK!! Everything has been hilarious. Every time something bad happens, or a disappointment comes I laugh so hard haha. I'm laughing right now!!!! (oh.. the lady in front of me, just gave me the strong finnish stare!! but don't worry I stared right back!!!) jk but everything has been so good. I have really strived to just have a good attitude about everything. As I have just tried to look for the good in each situation, and prayed that Heavenly Father will help me, He has. I will illustrate some good examples haha.
So we finally got an appointment set up with this golden family!!! Mom, Dad, lapset!!!! So were on the way to this appointment which is around 10 kilometers out of town, and a twig get's caught in my gear system. I start to slow down to get it out and Vanhin Weaver yells, EMBRACE IT!!! hahah (always loved that guy!) So l do, and start to speed up, when all of the sudden the twig goes up through the pully, and bends the whole thing into the spokes!"! Five minutes before the teach!!! (2 points to the adversary!!) So I look at it, and just start laughing! We locked our bikes right there, and ran to the teach!! We taught them about the Book of Mormon, and they said they are interested! (5 points Elders). It was so great! We still had to walk my bike into town, but things went so well.
We had a very cool experience as well earlier in the week. We were on the way to another appointment with an potential, and Vanhin Weaver and I realized we should be talking to more people even though we are on bikes. We stopped this guy, and I said,"Hey we talk about God's plan for us, and know that He lives... or something like that... can we talk more about this with you sometime? His first response was, yeah!! It kind of shocked me haha I was like okay, can we recieve your phone number. Vanhin Weaver spoke up and said, Can we meet in your home this week? He said yes to both questions, and we recieved his address, and number. The Lord blessed us by following the counsel of our leaders. However that is not the coolest part.
We continued down the road to where I thought this potential lived. However I looked at the wrong street on the map, and so we called this potential and apologized. He said we could meet on sunday, and I felt so bad. However I just tried to think, well i'm not perfect, what are we to do now? We stopped and the impression came to go try another close potential. We went imediately there, and... no answer. We recieved the impression to knock on the door behind us. I then remembered a story that Brother Francom told me about a door he recieved an impression to knock on, but he didn't. He remembered that his whole life. We decided to do it, and met this nice new family who said we can come back!! I was so grateful to be apart of that experience. It was so humbling to me, that the Lord saw through my weakness. He understands that I make mistakes sometimes, but He is still there to help us to be successful.
I love emailing, not only because I get to speak with you, but because I get to remember all the times the Lord helped us, and particularly me to do this work. Another experience I had may not be interesting to too many people, but is very important to me. I heard the testimony of another missionary who said, "I know Heavnly Father is proud of all His missionaries. I know He is proud of me in my efforts here." I thought about that statement, and that very night I prayed. I prayed to know if Heavenly Father was proud of me, if I am doing the right thing. All I can say is, I know he is there. I felt so close to my father that night. I felt His love. It may not be revelation like Paul revieved on the road to Damascus, or Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove, or the brother of Jared on top of the mountain. But to me, it was so important. Of all the experiences I have had as a missionary, the best ones have happened while I was on my knees. I plead with anyone who reads these emails. Do not take for granted the capactiy you have to be close to your Father in Heaven. It's not worth it.
I was so happy to here about Natalies concert. I remember taking Jen to The Roof for dinner once. EXPENSIVE!! haha but I would say worth it. I am also so excited to hear about the Provo Tabernacle!!! I remember sitting in that small room, and just shouting!!! It was so great to hear.
I was so excited to hear about Aunt Marsha and Uncle Dale!!! That is so great!
I will be staying in Joensuu, and the change ends on the 6 th of November, so don't send packages or anything to my home address two weeks before that date. Send them to the mission home. Otherwise send everything straight to my apartement in Joensuu because otherwise I have to wait a month or so to get it. I'm so sorry mom, I forgot your question at home. I will write you a letter.
love you all, and thank you for your support
Will
Anyways where do I start!!!!! This week has been ridiculous haha fun, crazy, stressful,..... all of the ingrediants to make one want to get into the corner of his/ her bedroom, and cry for two hours... (which I didn't do). Kuitenkin, moving forward.... We made some changes here in the work in Joensuu. Vanhin Weaver and I have really been trying to push ourselves to do things more in the Lords manner. Particualry with holding on to investigators. Our purpose is to find, teach, and baptize those who are ready to recieve the restored gospel, and are willing to act on the message we share. At one point we went from like 10 to 8 to eventually around 2 investigators. Some of these people I have known since my arrival into Finland. It was definately a step of faith... however the blessings we recieved far outstretch the sacrifices we had to make. This week cannot be described in any other word other than "miracle." I would say that word in finnish, but the fact is.... I don't know it in finnish.. hmmm.. (insert clearing throat action... copy.. paste).
One thing I can say is, I HAVE BEEN SO HAPPY THIS WEEK!! Everything has been hilarious. Every time something bad happens, or a disappointment comes I laugh so hard haha. I'm laughing right now!!!! (oh.. the lady in front of me, just gave me the strong finnish stare!! but don't worry I stared right back!!!) jk but everything has been so good. I have really strived to just have a good attitude about everything. As I have just tried to look for the good in each situation, and prayed that Heavenly Father will help me, He has. I will illustrate some good examples haha.
So we finally got an appointment set up with this golden family!!! Mom, Dad, lapset!!!! So were on the way to this appointment which is around 10 kilometers out of town, and a twig get's caught in my gear system. I start to slow down to get it out and Vanhin Weaver yells, EMBRACE IT!!! hahah (always loved that guy!) So l do, and start to speed up, when all of the sudden the twig goes up through the pully, and bends the whole thing into the spokes!"! Five minutes before the teach!!! (2 points to the adversary!!) So I look at it, and just start laughing! We locked our bikes right there, and ran to the teach!! We taught them about the Book of Mormon, and they said they are interested! (5 points Elders). It was so great! We still had to walk my bike into town, but things went so well.
We had a very cool experience as well earlier in the week. We were on the way to another appointment with an potential, and Vanhin Weaver and I realized we should be talking to more people even though we are on bikes. We stopped this guy, and I said,"Hey we talk about God's plan for us, and know that He lives... or something like that... can we talk more about this with you sometime? His first response was, yeah!! It kind of shocked me haha I was like okay, can we recieve your phone number. Vanhin Weaver spoke up and said, Can we meet in your home this week? He said yes to both questions, and we recieved his address, and number. The Lord blessed us by following the counsel of our leaders. However that is not the coolest part.
We continued down the road to where I thought this potential lived. However I looked at the wrong street on the map, and so we called this potential and apologized. He said we could meet on sunday, and I felt so bad. However I just tried to think, well i'm not perfect, what are we to do now? We stopped and the impression came to go try another close potential. We went imediately there, and... no answer. We recieved the impression to knock on the door behind us. I then remembered a story that Brother Francom told me about a door he recieved an impression to knock on, but he didn't. He remembered that his whole life. We decided to do it, and met this nice new family who said we can come back!! I was so grateful to be apart of that experience. It was so humbling to me, that the Lord saw through my weakness. He understands that I make mistakes sometimes, but He is still there to help us to be successful.
I love emailing, not only because I get to speak with you, but because I get to remember all the times the Lord helped us, and particularly me to do this work. Another experience I had may not be interesting to too many people, but is very important to me. I heard the testimony of another missionary who said, "I know Heavnly Father is proud of all His missionaries. I know He is proud of me in my efforts here." I thought about that statement, and that very night I prayed. I prayed to know if Heavenly Father was proud of me, if I am doing the right thing. All I can say is, I know he is there. I felt so close to my father that night. I felt His love. It may not be revelation like Paul revieved on the road to Damascus, or Joseph Smith in the Sacred Grove, or the brother of Jared on top of the mountain. But to me, it was so important. Of all the experiences I have had as a missionary, the best ones have happened while I was on my knees. I plead with anyone who reads these emails. Do not take for granted the capactiy you have to be close to your Father in Heaven. It's not worth it.
I was so happy to here about Natalies concert. I remember taking Jen to The Roof for dinner once. EXPENSIVE!! haha but I would say worth it. I am also so excited to hear about the Provo Tabernacle!!! I remember sitting in that small room, and just shouting!!! It was so great to hear.
I was so excited to hear about Aunt Marsha and Uncle Dale!!! That is so great!
I will be staying in Joensuu, and the change ends on the 6 th of November, so don't send packages or anything to my home address two weeks before that date. Send them to the mission home. Otherwise send everything straight to my apartement in Joensuu because otherwise I have to wait a month or so to get it. I'm so sorry mom, I forgot your question at home. I will write you a letter.
love you all, and thank you for your support
Will
October 3, 2011
HEEELLOOOO Family.
Well, first of all, dad with the package on tuesday I believe... very nice move! That BYU poster is proudly on my desk where it should be. They beat the AGGIES!!!!!??? That is hienoa!!! I can't believe they decided to take off their skirts and end this tea party!!! Movin up to the big kids table hahaha. Anyways, trying to think of what to talk about... sooo many options, let's see... we've got Kuopio road trip to Oulu, Oulu contacting, Oulu zone conference, Elder Manwaring and I playing guitar (Oh babylon, Oh babylon we bid thee farewell!!!!!!) That was a joke because we started playing wordly songs, which is funny with the babylon referrance because the ancient Israelites were commanded to leave the city of babylon because the wickedness of the city, resulting in the... hahahaha jk not sure if any of that is even true... Kuitenkin....
We had a lot of fun in Oulu! I don't know what it is but I love that city!!! Elder Manwaring and I always have so much fun haha. He is soooo good at the language, His congegations are really progressing, and we did very well when we went contacting. We always laugh so hard, and everything is hilarious. Experience number one: We were out and He was telling me about Kaajani, and the work there, and we decided to contact this one last guy before we got back to the chapel. We talked to him about the plan of salvation, and how we have a purpose in this life. We talked about how God loves all of his children, and the guy was soooo cool!! We got his phone number, and Elder Manwaring invited him to general conference the next day!! didn't say he would come... however, we did get his number, and Oulu should have a really good investigator soon. It was so cool to see the Lord to work through us to bless this man's life.
The next thing happened the following morning. Once again with Vanhin Manwaring and I after morning work out, I realized that I didn't have any breakfast!!!!! It was about 7:30 in the morning. I convinced him to come with me to buy some food. We ran into the city, and looked at the store door... locked......DAANGGIT!!! No food, until we get to Kuopio at 1400!!! So we start walking back, and we see this guy (Drunk) trying to fix his bike. Elder Manwaring said, we should go help him. I agreed, and so we went over there and Elder Manwaring fixed his bike, and we taught him a little bit. He gave us his phone number, and he told us about how much he needed to get his life back in order. His girlfriend dumped him, and he said he is crushed. We testified of the plan of salvation, and how through God, we can find peace, or something like that... Sweeeet!!!
I have come to see the importance of the spirit in this work, and how diverse the spirit works to lead us to individuals who are ready. I still didn't get food.... but Heavenly Father led us to one of his children who needed help. I know that it doesn't matter whether everything is good in life, or whether everything is going bad... we need our Father in Heaven. I love the quote Elder Packer said. He said something along the lines of,"compared to god, man in nothing... but to god man is everything." His purpose is to help us to be eternally happy. I have realized how grateful I am that I can be with my family forever!!! Because God loves me, he is going to help me return to him. I know that God is a God of order, and things must be done his way. However, when I marry my wife in the temple, I will be sealed for all eternity to her and my children. I am already sealed to you and dad, and life is soo great!! Everything makes so much sense. God loves us, so he gives us these different commandments to keep us free and happy. Leeeegit.
Sorry I don't have a lot of time today, we just barely got back into town, and I need to go shopping and clean my apartment. However I want you to know that I do love Elder Weaver. Even though we are completely different people, he is a great missionary, and a cool Elder. Sometimes I think He is kind of strange when He talks about his computer catalogs, but I'm sure he thinks I'm strange when I lay out the pictures of Jet's you sent Me!!! Big thanks to dad!!!
It sounds like things are very much so coming along at the house! That is so great. That downstairs hallway needed the reconstruction. I am excited to see it someday ahah. Maybe you can send me pictures of it. I'll send my memory card home, so you can post pictures of myself, particularly my chizzled abs and stunning features hahaha. Elder Weaver and mines key phrase is (So noone kidnapps us) Hey kid, you want some candy?? Tell Alexya and she'll know haha.
love to be, be to love
Vanhin William Neldon Perry III
Well, first of all, dad with the package on tuesday I believe... very nice move! That BYU poster is proudly on my desk where it should be. They beat the AGGIES!!!!!??? That is hienoa!!! I can't believe they decided to take off their skirts and end this tea party!!! Movin up to the big kids table hahaha. Anyways, trying to think of what to talk about... sooo many options, let's see... we've got Kuopio road trip to Oulu, Oulu contacting, Oulu zone conference, Elder Manwaring and I playing guitar (Oh babylon, Oh babylon we bid thee farewell!!!!!!) That was a joke because we started playing wordly songs, which is funny with the babylon referrance because the ancient Israelites were commanded to leave the city of babylon because the wickedness of the city, resulting in the... hahahaha jk not sure if any of that is even true... Kuitenkin....
We had a lot of fun in Oulu! I don't know what it is but I love that city!!! Elder Manwaring and I always have so much fun haha. He is soooo good at the language, His congegations are really progressing, and we did very well when we went contacting. We always laugh so hard, and everything is hilarious. Experience number one: We were out and He was telling me about Kaajani, and the work there, and we decided to contact this one last guy before we got back to the chapel. We talked to him about the plan of salvation, and how we have a purpose in this life. We talked about how God loves all of his children, and the guy was soooo cool!! We got his phone number, and Elder Manwaring invited him to general conference the next day!! didn't say he would come... however, we did get his number, and Oulu should have a really good investigator soon. It was so cool to see the Lord to work through us to bless this man's life.
The next thing happened the following morning. Once again with Vanhin Manwaring and I after morning work out, I realized that I didn't have any breakfast!!!!! It was about 7:30 in the morning. I convinced him to come with me to buy some food. We ran into the city, and looked at the store door... locked......DAANGGIT!!! No food, until we get to Kuopio at 1400!!! So we start walking back, and we see this guy (Drunk) trying to fix his bike. Elder Manwaring said, we should go help him. I agreed, and so we went over there and Elder Manwaring fixed his bike, and we taught him a little bit. He gave us his phone number, and he told us about how much he needed to get his life back in order. His girlfriend dumped him, and he said he is crushed. We testified of the plan of salvation, and how through God, we can find peace, or something like that... Sweeeet!!!
I have come to see the importance of the spirit in this work, and how diverse the spirit works to lead us to individuals who are ready. I still didn't get food.... but Heavenly Father led us to one of his children who needed help. I know that it doesn't matter whether everything is good in life, or whether everything is going bad... we need our Father in Heaven. I love the quote Elder Packer said. He said something along the lines of,"compared to god, man in nothing... but to god man is everything." His purpose is to help us to be eternally happy. I have realized how grateful I am that I can be with my family forever!!! Because God loves me, he is going to help me return to him. I know that God is a God of order, and things must be done his way. However, when I marry my wife in the temple, I will be sealed for all eternity to her and my children. I am already sealed to you and dad, and life is soo great!! Everything makes so much sense. God loves us, so he gives us these different commandments to keep us free and happy. Leeeegit.
Sorry I don't have a lot of time today, we just barely got back into town, and I need to go shopping and clean my apartment. However I want you to know that I do love Elder Weaver. Even though we are completely different people, he is a great missionary, and a cool Elder. Sometimes I think He is kind of strange when He talks about his computer catalogs, but I'm sure he thinks I'm strange when I lay out the pictures of Jet's you sent Me!!! Big thanks to dad!!!
It sounds like things are very much so coming along at the house! That is so great. That downstairs hallway needed the reconstruction. I am excited to see it someday ahah. Maybe you can send me pictures of it. I'll send my memory card home, so you can post pictures of myself, particularly my chizzled abs and stunning features hahaha. Elder Weaver and mines key phrase is (So noone kidnapps us) Hey kid, you want some candy?? Tell Alexya and she'll know haha.
love to be, be to love
Vanhin William Neldon Perry III
Monday, September 26, 2011
September 26,
Haha, Hello Family.
I think this is the first time that mom forgot to write back haha. When I opened my email account I thought that there must be something horribly wrong. Well... this week has been incredible with an amazing end. We have gone through a lot of trials, and a lot of crazy things, but on the other hand we've seen a lot of miracles, and had a lot of fun. The term I believe is referred to as bittersweet haha.
First of all, I went to the eye doctor last monday, (155 Euro's!!!), and he said I have an eye infection. Nothing major, but He gave me some eye drops to take during the day for a little while, and everything should be good. It was so hilarious. I was sitting in the waiting room, and this doctor opens the door of a dark room, and says, "Perry," with a deep voice haha. We walk into this long dark room where He tells me, turn your head and cough...... in finnish I didn't understand.... Just Kidding.... but it was a dark room. Elder Weaver was on one side, and I was on the other in a huge chair. However he turned out to be a very nice guy, and everthing is fine now.
Well it's the first day of my fourth change. General Conference and zone conference are this week!! Hienoa!! We are going to Oulu on thursday, and coming home probably Monday. It's gonna be sweet seeing all the Vanhimmat up der in da north. Daddy Keep me away fro them mountain people!!! Haha Yesterday I was thinking about how much I wish I could go get a chocolate shake from dairy queen with you. Those were fun times.
Elder Weaver and I have started to get along a lot better. We are two completely different people. For instance he recieved a package today, and in it his parents sent him a cataloge with all this computer hardware in it haha. He said something along the lines of, "Woww!! a proton megabite harddrive with a 250 mega wat capacitator in it for only 250 dollars!!" I looked and said,"Mm Hmm... sounds like a steal haha." But we have come a long way. We're pretty use to each other now, so things are a lot easier. I've learned great lessons from the Lord in Humility. I've learned to humble myself and if a problem comes up, just say, "I'm Sorry." Those words feel like theeee hardest words to say in the english vocabulary sometimes. But they need to be said, especially when there is contention between you and your companion. We can't let contention interfere with the Lords work. I'm not gonna say that I'm perfect, but I try to do my best.
We had district meeting last week, and Elder Cassity really stressed the importance of prayer. He talked about doing it a certain way, and I know that this way works so much better. I didn't know how to pray!!! The first step is, Quiet yourself, take some time to let your mind settle down. Second, Visualize your Heavenly Father, and how much he loves you. How proud He is of his son, or daughter. Thirdly, Explain your situation with him, and counsel with him. Fourth, pay attention to your feelings, and really try to know what his will is. Fifth, Thank him for the answer you recieve.
Elder Weaver and I found ourselves at a road- block with one of our investigators. I started teaching her with vanhin Nelsen, now Vli Nelsen, and now Elder Weaver. She isn't sure about the church, the spirit has been working on her, but she says that right about the time that feels its true, she convinces herself that it's not! We weren't sure if we should give her some time, or if we should continue teaching her (because she wasn't keeping all of her commitments). We decided after the teach to say a prayer that way. I kid you not, that the powers of heaven came down to help us. Our Heavenly Father, saw our challenge, gave peace to our minds and hearts, and also gave us direction.
Some times we go through pits, or personal Hell's. But the counsel given from the Savior is so real. He says, "In the world ye shall have tribulation, but fear not, for I have overcome the world. I forgot the referrance, but the principal is so true. I know that whenever I am struggling, or whenever I have a concern, or maybe I'm just in a bad mood haha. I can pray to my father, and he will hear my prayer. I'll be honest, sometimes going tracting is not my favorite thing, or getting laughed at because you believe in something that can't be seen. Sometimes it's hard, but wherever I am, in the day or night, I know I can pray. I hope that anyone who does read my emails does not underestimate the power of prayer or the significance of it. No one is more interested in our success, than the one who called us.
I want to way I'm grateful for the prayers on my behalf. I know that we are led to people everyday, and help people in all classes of society. Now to the Grand finale!! One of our investigators was baptized on saturday by Elder Weaver!!! I was so happy to see him go to baptism. That sounds kind of weird in english, go to baptism.. that's how you say it in finnish.... anyways the night before the baptism we recieved a prompting to make sure that he brings extra underwear haha. The next day we called him and said, make sure and bring white underwear.... and he was like.. I don't have any.... (Of course I was the one on the phone with him!!!) I said, uh... well... I guess you can use some of mine... (work out ones) haha poor guy was like... uh... do I have to really?? I made some other calls and called him back and said, "well... yup I guess so."
This whole situation was so awkward, but once he was baptized it was great. The next day I confirmed him a member of the church, and gave him the gift of the holy ghost. I have to say that it was a very special experience to me, one that is very sacred. Just know that I know the power of the priesthood is real, and that Heavenly Father was so proud of His son that day. He said, "I feel like a part of me that was missing is there now.. I'm who I want to be... hahahahaha Preach my Gospel quote!!!!! Soooo sweet.
Not a bad week..........
I hope natalie got her candy bar, and mom your letters. I actually am going to write you a real letter today, last weeks letter was lame. Dad I am grateful for what you sharred from your personal studay, I am going home to study more about!! And thank you for sending that stuff... Mom.... Don't forget to write again or bad things will happen!!!! jk probably got lost in cyberspace.. I'll ask Vanhin Weaver about it haha.
love,
Will
I think this is the first time that mom forgot to write back haha. When I opened my email account I thought that there must be something horribly wrong. Well... this week has been incredible with an amazing end. We have gone through a lot of trials, and a lot of crazy things, but on the other hand we've seen a lot of miracles, and had a lot of fun. The term I believe is referred to as bittersweet haha.
First of all, I went to the eye doctor last monday, (155 Euro's!!!), and he said I have an eye infection. Nothing major, but He gave me some eye drops to take during the day for a little while, and everything should be good. It was so hilarious. I was sitting in the waiting room, and this doctor opens the door of a dark room, and says, "Perry," with a deep voice haha. We walk into this long dark room where He tells me, turn your head and cough...... in finnish I didn't understand.... Just Kidding.... but it was a dark room. Elder Weaver was on one side, and I was on the other in a huge chair. However he turned out to be a very nice guy, and everthing is fine now.
Well it's the first day of my fourth change. General Conference and zone conference are this week!! Hienoa!! We are going to Oulu on thursday, and coming home probably Monday. It's gonna be sweet seeing all the Vanhimmat up der in da north. Daddy Keep me away fro them mountain people!!! Haha Yesterday I was thinking about how much I wish I could go get a chocolate shake from dairy queen with you. Those were fun times.
Elder Weaver and I have started to get along a lot better. We are two completely different people. For instance he recieved a package today, and in it his parents sent him a cataloge with all this computer hardware in it haha. He said something along the lines of, "Woww!! a proton megabite harddrive with a 250 mega wat capacitator in it for only 250 dollars!!" I looked and said,"Mm Hmm... sounds like a steal haha." But we have come a long way. We're pretty use to each other now, so things are a lot easier. I've learned great lessons from the Lord in Humility. I've learned to humble myself and if a problem comes up, just say, "I'm Sorry." Those words feel like theeee hardest words to say in the english vocabulary sometimes. But they need to be said, especially when there is contention between you and your companion. We can't let contention interfere with the Lords work. I'm not gonna say that I'm perfect, but I try to do my best.
We had district meeting last week, and Elder Cassity really stressed the importance of prayer. He talked about doing it a certain way, and I know that this way works so much better. I didn't know how to pray!!! The first step is, Quiet yourself, take some time to let your mind settle down. Second, Visualize your Heavenly Father, and how much he loves you. How proud He is of his son, or daughter. Thirdly, Explain your situation with him, and counsel with him. Fourth, pay attention to your feelings, and really try to know what his will is. Fifth, Thank him for the answer you recieve.
Elder Weaver and I found ourselves at a road- block with one of our investigators. I started teaching her with vanhin Nelsen, now Vli Nelsen, and now Elder Weaver. She isn't sure about the church, the spirit has been working on her, but she says that right about the time that feels its true, she convinces herself that it's not! We weren't sure if we should give her some time, or if we should continue teaching her (because she wasn't keeping all of her commitments). We decided after the teach to say a prayer that way. I kid you not, that the powers of heaven came down to help us. Our Heavenly Father, saw our challenge, gave peace to our minds and hearts, and also gave us direction.
Some times we go through pits, or personal Hell's. But the counsel given from the Savior is so real. He says, "In the world ye shall have tribulation, but fear not, for I have overcome the world. I forgot the referrance, but the principal is so true. I know that whenever I am struggling, or whenever I have a concern, or maybe I'm just in a bad mood haha. I can pray to my father, and he will hear my prayer. I'll be honest, sometimes going tracting is not my favorite thing, or getting laughed at because you believe in something that can't be seen. Sometimes it's hard, but wherever I am, in the day or night, I know I can pray. I hope that anyone who does read my emails does not underestimate the power of prayer or the significance of it. No one is more interested in our success, than the one who called us.
I want to way I'm grateful for the prayers on my behalf. I know that we are led to people everyday, and help people in all classes of society. Now to the Grand finale!! One of our investigators was baptized on saturday by Elder Weaver!!! I was so happy to see him go to baptism. That sounds kind of weird in english, go to baptism.. that's how you say it in finnish.... anyways the night before the baptism we recieved a prompting to make sure that he brings extra underwear haha. The next day we called him and said, make sure and bring white underwear.... and he was like.. I don't have any.... (Of course I was the one on the phone with him!!!) I said, uh... well... I guess you can use some of mine... (work out ones) haha poor guy was like... uh... do I have to really?? I made some other calls and called him back and said, "well... yup I guess so."
This whole situation was so awkward, but once he was baptized it was great. The next day I confirmed him a member of the church, and gave him the gift of the holy ghost. I have to say that it was a very special experience to me, one that is very sacred. Just know that I know the power of the priesthood is real, and that Heavenly Father was so proud of His son that day. He said, "I feel like a part of me that was missing is there now.. I'm who I want to be... hahahahaha Preach my Gospel quote!!!!! Soooo sweet.
Not a bad week..........
I hope natalie got her candy bar, and mom your letters. I actually am going to write you a real letter today, last weeks letter was lame. Dad I am grateful for what you sharred from your personal studay, I am going home to study more about!! And thank you for sending that stuff... Mom.... Don't forget to write again or bad things will happen!!!! jk probably got lost in cyberspace.. I'll ask Vanhin Weaver about it haha.
love,
Will
Monday, September 19, 2011
September 19, 2011
Hello Perheni.....
So before I start my email today, I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for their support, and letters, whether it's through email, or cards... It means the world to me. The saddest thing to a missionary is loosing an investigator, especially one who was a good friend. The only thing that compares with that, is coming home to an empty mailbox. However, I'm grateful to my family and friends who always make sure that I can count on recieving something.
First of all, Alexya... Of course it's not the same without me!!! I'm Willy... This time I am not going to look up the words you sent me haha. I will send you a letter this week to expound on your email haha. Hilarious by the way...
Now to the Vanhemmat... I didn't get a change call!! I can stay in Joensuu for a little longer. Yesterday all the memebers in our branch asked me if I recieved one, and I smilied and said, "En!!!!!!" I love Joensuu so much. I have a big sister here named Niina. She is way sweet. Really tiny, but hilarious. Everytime she calls, or we call her she calls me her veli, and I call her my vanhempi siskoa. I also am so close to our branch.. given there is only 25- 30 people.. 30 people being generous haha.. But the branch has a big heart!!! Except for the Bishop who verbally abuses our investigators. I think He should get Michael Scotts biggest Ding award!! Our mission president said talking to him about the success in Finland is like talking with Eyeore... the donkey off of Winney the Pooh....... not that I know who that is................. (Clear the throat)... moving forward.
We had some very cool experiences. I first want to say that I know what I am about to share with you is very true. Our golden investigator! He is a very smart guy. He is a scientist from India who is very successful. He came to Joensuu for school, was here for four days before we found him. He is a very close friend to me, and we will probably be friends for eternity. Anyways He has accepted everything we have taught to him. His own words,"This feels good, and if I don't understand it, I just accept it, and choose faith." Woooooooooooooahhhhhhhhhhhhh.... okay, anyways... It finally came down to the Big three!! Law of Chasity, Word of Wisdom, and and and and and Law of Tithing.. Perry throws to Weaver who pitches to Tarun on the 20 (Law of Chasity... already obeys it). Five yards down sacked by the devil Word of wisdom, yet shakes it off, next play runs 15 for the first down, and a word of wisdom acceptance. Five yards to go....... satan, paholainen, U of U, (Clearing the throat again), intercepts the pass, and........... needless to say He couldn't accept the Law of Tithing. We talked, shared scriptures, bore testimony, nothing.................. He said it felt true, but He wasn't sure if He wanted to do it. We talked for two hours, and we thought we would have to move the date. We said a closing prayer... Elder Weaver and I were crushed..... and after the prayer He sat in his chair looked at us and said, "Don't move my date. I know this is true, and i'll follow it."
I sat back, and I think I said something along the lines of,"WHAAAATT!!??" I was shaking off the edge of my chair, and about passed out. I sat back, and for a second it seemed as though angels were in the room right next to him telling him what he needed to do. I testify that they were. The Lord knew him. He knew why he led him to joensuu, and He was not going to let him fall. I was deeply touched by his true faith. He is such a willing person, and so ready to become not only a member of this church, but a disciple of Christ. True Christianity is love in action.. (President Mckay). He is a very good definition of that.
Well with another change comes another........... hair cut............... which I gave to myself........ again. But I think it looks okay, the problem is Elder Weaver does not know how to cut hair. Nor (I got out on the word "Nor" in the third grade spelling bee... what the heck! Nor?... N.... O... R.... E...... uh.... no) does he care. So when I asked him to check the back, He's like uhhh well sure... yur good. HAHA thanks bro!!!! I could be looking like chewbackka back there, going all over the place. I need to ask someone if it looks good haha.
Now to the essentials. Last week the doctor was out of town so they rescheduled my appointment for today. It is at klo 13:20 and I will write in my letter to you (mom) the results. Father, I am disappointed that you weren't praying hard enough for BYU!!! However I do have a question haha Did you remember to send my shoe polish, and stuff?? I haven't recieved it yet so.. no worries. I will be at the same address for the next change which is Koulukatu 31 B 27 80100 Joensuu, Suomi. I will make sure and tell you when to not send stuff when I get my new schedule from the toimisto.
Tell natalie Happy Birthday!!!! and I will write her a letter today. Tell Mike that I'm sorry, but I did send a package for him, but I guess it was lost!!! Lame.
Ya'll are the best, especially you mom,
love
Vanhin P
So before I start my email today, I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for their support, and letters, whether it's through email, or cards... It means the world to me. The saddest thing to a missionary is loosing an investigator, especially one who was a good friend. The only thing that compares with that, is coming home to an empty mailbox. However, I'm grateful to my family and friends who always make sure that I can count on recieving something.
First of all, Alexya... Of course it's not the same without me!!! I'm Willy... This time I am not going to look up the words you sent me haha. I will send you a letter this week to expound on your email haha. Hilarious by the way...
Now to the Vanhemmat... I didn't get a change call!! I can stay in Joensuu for a little longer. Yesterday all the memebers in our branch asked me if I recieved one, and I smilied and said, "En!!!!!!" I love Joensuu so much. I have a big sister here named Niina. She is way sweet. Really tiny, but hilarious. Everytime she calls, or we call her she calls me her veli, and I call her my vanhempi siskoa. I also am so close to our branch.. given there is only 25- 30 people.. 30 people being generous haha.. But the branch has a big heart!!! Except for the Bishop who verbally abuses our investigators. I think He should get Michael Scotts biggest Ding award!! Our mission president said talking to him about the success in Finland is like talking with Eyeore... the donkey off of Winney the Pooh....... not that I know who that is................. (Clear the throat)... moving forward.
We had some very cool experiences. I first want to say that I know what I am about to share with you is very true. Our golden investigator! He is a very smart guy. He is a scientist from India who is very successful. He came to Joensuu for school, was here for four days before we found him. He is a very close friend to me, and we will probably be friends for eternity. Anyways He has accepted everything we have taught to him. His own words,"This feels good, and if I don't understand it, I just accept it, and choose faith." Woooooooooooooahhhhhhhhhhhhh.... okay, anyways... It finally came down to the Big three!! Law of Chasity, Word of Wisdom, and and and and and Law of Tithing.. Perry throws to Weaver who pitches to Tarun on the 20 (Law of Chasity... already obeys it). Five yards down sacked by the devil Word of wisdom, yet shakes it off, next play runs 15 for the first down, and a word of wisdom acceptance. Five yards to go....... satan, paholainen, U of U, (Clearing the throat again), intercepts the pass, and........... needless to say He couldn't accept the Law of Tithing. We talked, shared scriptures, bore testimony, nothing.................. He said it felt true, but He wasn't sure if He wanted to do it. We talked for two hours, and we thought we would have to move the date. We said a closing prayer... Elder Weaver and I were crushed..... and after the prayer He sat in his chair looked at us and said, "Don't move my date. I know this is true, and i'll follow it."
I sat back, and I think I said something along the lines of,"WHAAAATT!!??" I was shaking off the edge of my chair, and about passed out. I sat back, and for a second it seemed as though angels were in the room right next to him telling him what he needed to do. I testify that they were. The Lord knew him. He knew why he led him to joensuu, and He was not going to let him fall. I was deeply touched by his true faith. He is such a willing person, and so ready to become not only a member of this church, but a disciple of Christ. True Christianity is love in action.. (President Mckay). He is a very good definition of that.
Well with another change comes another........... hair cut............... which I gave to myself........ again. But I think it looks okay, the problem is Elder Weaver does not know how to cut hair. Nor (I got out on the word "Nor" in the third grade spelling bee... what the heck! Nor?... N.... O... R.... E...... uh.... no) does he care. So when I asked him to check the back, He's like uhhh well sure... yur good. HAHA thanks bro!!!! I could be looking like chewbackka back there, going all over the place. I need to ask someone if it looks good haha.
Now to the essentials. Last week the doctor was out of town so they rescheduled my appointment for today. It is at klo 13:20 and I will write in my letter to you (mom) the results. Father, I am disappointed that you weren't praying hard enough for BYU!!! However I do have a question haha Did you remember to send my shoe polish, and stuff?? I haven't recieved it yet so.. no worries. I will be at the same address for the next change which is Koulukatu 31 B 27 80100 Joensuu, Suomi. I will make sure and tell you when to not send stuff when I get my new schedule from the toimisto.
Tell natalie Happy Birthday!!!! and I will write her a letter today. Tell Mike that I'm sorry, but I did send a package for him, but I guess it was lost!!! Lame.
Ya'll are the best, especially you mom,
love
Vanhin P
Monday, September 12, 2011
September 12, 2011
I'm sorry about last week. The same thing just happened to me again. I was in the middle of my email and it deleted. Kind of frustrating. This week has been very good! We lost two investigators, which was very sad. One is moving to china, and the other was not willing to live the word of wisdom. He said he knew Joseph Smith was a prophet, and believed in the Book of Mormon but didn't believe He could stop smoking! LAAMMEE. the means lame exaggerated.
Kuiten Kin, life is good Joensuussa. Dad asked me about how the language went this week. I am going to liken my experience this week to my good friend the sparrow. You have this sparrow who is a gorgess big bird. He's soaring through the air!!!! Tree to tree, house to house..... anywhere he wants to go... Wind in his face, feeling good until...CRASHHHHHH!!! into the window haha. There are times when I feel pretty good, and about the time when that feeling comes around I get the Finnish stare, and "Mitä?" haha kaikki on hyvin kuiten kin.
I especially need your prayers this week. We found this golden investigator named Tarun at the beginning of the change. We have taught him a lot, and his baptism is next saturday. I pray to thee Heavens!!!!! that all will go well. Everyone please pray that all will go well... and that includes you too Alexya!!!! You can pray like we did that one time at that Greek thing, or however you want but do it!!!!! Viisi.. I just really want everything to go well. Tell our family that they should write me more :) You both and grandma are very consistant, but I want more fam action.
Werid experince.... We were on splits Kuopiossa and I was with our District Leader Elder Cassity. We were eating at a pizza shop in town when all the sudden this guy walks in and stares at me... uh.... okay... He walks up, and says He wants to meet with us right now at the library.... Vanhin Cassity shoves his pizza down and we walk with him and his mom to the library. Mom leaves, and it's just us. He puts His arm around me and says, "Oh vanhin Perry...." hmm... interesting.
He absolutely loves me!!!! At first I thought well I am pretty cool... I guess haha.... not the reason... We get to the library, and He goes off to get a whole bunch of techno cd's hmm.... we go get a room and start talking. Oh by the way he turned on his techno music and wouldn't turn it off. He kept starring at me!!! After a lot of trying to get him to talk about the gospel he says, "What do you think about the roman culture?" Mitä siitä? you know what about it?
In english he proceded to say you know, two men together, doing things, sexual things?? My eyes went wide, and my jaw dropped!!!!!!!! WHATTTT?????? He then went and turned his music up and we started to leave. THen He started dancing!!!!!!!! I was laughing so hard it was ridiculous!!! He asked do you have a girlfriend? I said, "Yep, she's great!!!!" She's back home haha AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH totally gay guy wanting me!! Why can't it be the hot finnish girl down at the store that I have to reject and say no to!!! (Which is a different story haha) However, Hilarious story I couldn't pass up telling...
However afterward, we went to a teach with an investigator who has been investigating for several years. Has read the Book of Mormon 10 times, and goes to church every sunday. During our study together we felt very strongly by the Holy Ghost that the reason he wasn't progressing is because he doesn't understand his relationship with his father in heaven. We went and taught him by the spirit, and He set a baptismal date!!!! it was so cool to see. I think one of the greatest blessings in life is to recieve a prompting from the Holy Ghost, follow it, and see the Lord work in the lives of those whom you serve. Never let a day go by without following through on the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
Well I wish I could say more but my email time is up, even though my last email deleted. I love you both very much. I have an appointment with the eye doctor today, and the mission will reimburst the charge. Pray, Pray, Pray that we will be led to people who are ready to recieve this message. I think about you both every day, and sometimes it's hard thinking about the parties and air shows, and everything. But I do know one thing. With all my heart I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. Although things are so hard, they are so worth it. I am learning what it's like to really serve the Lord for the right reasons, and out of pure love.
Love you,
Will
Kuiten Kin, life is good Joensuussa. Dad asked me about how the language went this week. I am going to liken my experience this week to my good friend the sparrow. You have this sparrow who is a gorgess big bird. He's soaring through the air!!!! Tree to tree, house to house..... anywhere he wants to go... Wind in his face, feeling good until...CRASHHHHHH!!! into the window haha. There are times when I feel pretty good, and about the time when that feeling comes around I get the Finnish stare, and "Mitä?" haha kaikki on hyvin kuiten kin.
I especially need your prayers this week. We found this golden investigator named Tarun at the beginning of the change. We have taught him a lot, and his baptism is next saturday. I pray to thee Heavens!!!!! that all will go well. Everyone please pray that all will go well... and that includes you too Alexya!!!! You can pray like we did that one time at that Greek thing, or however you want but do it!!!!! Viisi.. I just really want everything to go well. Tell our family that they should write me more :) You both and grandma are very consistant, but I want more fam action.
Werid experince.... We were on splits Kuopiossa and I was with our District Leader Elder Cassity. We were eating at a pizza shop in town when all the sudden this guy walks in and stares at me... uh.... okay... He walks up, and says He wants to meet with us right now at the library.... Vanhin Cassity shoves his pizza down and we walk with him and his mom to the library. Mom leaves, and it's just us. He puts His arm around me and says, "Oh vanhin Perry...." hmm... interesting.
He absolutely loves me!!!! At first I thought well I am pretty cool... I guess haha.... not the reason... We get to the library, and He goes off to get a whole bunch of techno cd's hmm.... we go get a room and start talking. Oh by the way he turned on his techno music and wouldn't turn it off. He kept starring at me!!! After a lot of trying to get him to talk about the gospel he says, "What do you think about the roman culture?" Mitä siitä? you know what about it?
In english he proceded to say you know, two men together, doing things, sexual things?? My eyes went wide, and my jaw dropped!!!!!!!! WHATTTT?????? He then went and turned his music up and we started to leave. THen He started dancing!!!!!!!! I was laughing so hard it was ridiculous!!! He asked do you have a girlfriend? I said, "Yep, she's great!!!!" She's back home haha AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH totally gay guy wanting me!! Why can't it be the hot finnish girl down at the store that I have to reject and say no to!!! (Which is a different story haha) However, Hilarious story I couldn't pass up telling...
However afterward, we went to a teach with an investigator who has been investigating for several years. Has read the Book of Mormon 10 times, and goes to church every sunday. During our study together we felt very strongly by the Holy Ghost that the reason he wasn't progressing is because he doesn't understand his relationship with his father in heaven. We went and taught him by the spirit, and He set a baptismal date!!!! it was so cool to see. I think one of the greatest blessings in life is to recieve a prompting from the Holy Ghost, follow it, and see the Lord work in the lives of those whom you serve. Never let a day go by without following through on the promptings of the Holy Ghost.
Well I wish I could say more but my email time is up, even though my last email deleted. I love you both very much. I have an appointment with the eye doctor today, and the mission will reimburst the charge. Pray, Pray, Pray that we will be led to people who are ready to recieve this message. I think about you both every day, and sometimes it's hard thinking about the parties and air shows, and everything. But I do know one thing. With all my heart I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. Although things are so hard, they are so worth it. I am learning what it's like to really serve the Lord for the right reasons, and out of pure love.
Love you,
Will
September 5, 2011
William's email didn't come through this week, so there is really nothing to post. Sorry! Check back on the 12th.
Monday, August 29, 2011
August 29, 2011
Mom I don't know why you worry so much... I had a helmet on haha. It really wasn't that big of a deal. Secondly, I have an appointment with the eye doctor on this wednesday. I don't wear my glasses because I sweat so much on my bike, that they slip off my face. It's easier to wear just one contact. I am completely okay with that. Don't worry, I am using my head. Take it easy over there haha.
Some missionaries just leave clothes, and coats and stuff in the apartment when they leave, so I grabbed mine. Sister Rawlings, and the Doctor in Germany both know about my eye, and everything is under control.
I'm going to zone conference on wednesday so I should get my package then. If you don't send my packages to the apartment, then I either have to pay for shipping inside the country, or wait until zone conference. By the way, I'm almost out of taco shell things haha. I'm grateful for everything you're doing, thank you for your support.
This week has been a really good week. Our district leader Elder Casity commited us to really taking advantage of our 3 hour study block in the morning. I have been so happy all the time as I have done that. We were listening to a BYU devotional talk by a quorum of the seventy, and He suggested that every latter- day saint have a personal devotional every morning. He suggested four things: 1) Get up a little earlier than usual 2: Get ready for the day, exercise, shower, do your hair, get dressed in clean clothes etc 3: Study the scriptures for 7- 8 minutes per day, 4) Find your personal "Sacred Grove." As missionaries, we have a lot longer to study the scriptures and do all these different things, but I want to focus on the sacred grove aspect.
Every night I pray for our investigators individually. I remember in the past thinking at one point... gosh I have to pray for all these people. I caught myself in the thought. I thought about what prayer really is. We are literally communicating with our father. I wonder how he feels when I throw out a bland prayer, and hope for answers. In the bible dictionary it talks about how when we understand our relationship with god, namely that He is our father, and we are his children, then prayer becomes instinctive. It really does become natural. I had forgotton who I was talking to.
I have really seen how important it is to pray out loud. Although He knows our hearts intent, it seems more important to me if I pray outloud. I have tried to visualize myself, like I'm sitting talking with Him. I have noticed that as I have really tried to talk with him, and express my feelings about the work, and what is going on here. I felt I have been guided to the answers which I have needed. I have been so grateful for prayer lately. Missionary work is so much fun, but it can be very hard. There have been some times when we have been rejected so hard that my heart was so angry, and I felt like how am I suppose to love this people if all they do is stare me down, and look at me like i'm a polar bear at the zoo?? Then the hymn, "Did you think to pray?" comes to my mind. I always go and say a silent prayer, and I find peace knowing that I have a loving Father there who is with me.
We definately see miracles though. We contacted this guy once who called us the same day and said He wanted to know more. We met with him, said He felt the spirit and everything... next day nothing...... didn't here from him again. We prayed that we could talk to him again obviously. That particular day, I prayed to know if Heavenly Father really was guiding us. We were riding our bikes and for some reason I took a wrong turn, and ended up going to the church haha when we were heading home. What's funny is I know the streets here so well... but anyways we pull up to the church, and I turn to Vanhin Weaver and said, "I don't know why I came here haha." We turned to go home, and that potential was across the street!!! Of course we went and talked to him....... Not interested....... but I walked away knowing that Heavenly Father is leading us. I can't explain everything, but I know He is there.
I heard a quote from President Spencer W. Kimball who said, "I want to wear out my life, just as I wear out my shoes.. in the service of the Lord." I have realized how much of an priveledge it is to be here. The time is so precious, and so short. I can't believe I am almost at my six month mark. It motivates me to work harder, because I know I will never get this time back.
I'm sorry that I made you mad about the car thing... I'll be more careful. All is being taken care of, If there is a problem that needs to be taken care of then I'll let you know.
Love you both,
Will
Some missionaries just leave clothes, and coats and stuff in the apartment when they leave, so I grabbed mine. Sister Rawlings, and the Doctor in Germany both know about my eye, and everything is under control.
I'm going to zone conference on wednesday so I should get my package then. If you don't send my packages to the apartment, then I either have to pay for shipping inside the country, or wait until zone conference. By the way, I'm almost out of taco shell things haha. I'm grateful for everything you're doing, thank you for your support.
This week has been a really good week. Our district leader Elder Casity commited us to really taking advantage of our 3 hour study block in the morning. I have been so happy all the time as I have done that. We were listening to a BYU devotional talk by a quorum of the seventy, and He suggested that every latter- day saint have a personal devotional every morning. He suggested four things: 1) Get up a little earlier than usual 2: Get ready for the day, exercise, shower, do your hair, get dressed in clean clothes etc 3: Study the scriptures for 7- 8 minutes per day, 4) Find your personal "Sacred Grove." As missionaries, we have a lot longer to study the scriptures and do all these different things, but I want to focus on the sacred grove aspect.
Every night I pray for our investigators individually. I remember in the past thinking at one point... gosh I have to pray for all these people. I caught myself in the thought. I thought about what prayer really is. We are literally communicating with our father. I wonder how he feels when I throw out a bland prayer, and hope for answers. In the bible dictionary it talks about how when we understand our relationship with god, namely that He is our father, and we are his children, then prayer becomes instinctive. It really does become natural. I had forgotton who I was talking to.
I have really seen how important it is to pray out loud. Although He knows our hearts intent, it seems more important to me if I pray outloud. I have tried to visualize myself, like I'm sitting talking with Him. I have noticed that as I have really tried to talk with him, and express my feelings about the work, and what is going on here. I felt I have been guided to the answers which I have needed. I have been so grateful for prayer lately. Missionary work is so much fun, but it can be very hard. There have been some times when we have been rejected so hard that my heart was so angry, and I felt like how am I suppose to love this people if all they do is stare me down, and look at me like i'm a polar bear at the zoo?? Then the hymn, "Did you think to pray?" comes to my mind. I always go and say a silent prayer, and I find peace knowing that I have a loving Father there who is with me.
We definately see miracles though. We contacted this guy once who called us the same day and said He wanted to know more. We met with him, said He felt the spirit and everything... next day nothing...... didn't here from him again. We prayed that we could talk to him again obviously. That particular day, I prayed to know if Heavenly Father really was guiding us. We were riding our bikes and for some reason I took a wrong turn, and ended up going to the church haha when we were heading home. What's funny is I know the streets here so well... but anyways we pull up to the church, and I turn to Vanhin Weaver and said, "I don't know why I came here haha." We turned to go home, and that potential was across the street!!! Of course we went and talked to him....... Not interested....... but I walked away knowing that Heavenly Father is leading us. I can't explain everything, but I know He is there.
I heard a quote from President Spencer W. Kimball who said, "I want to wear out my life, just as I wear out my shoes.. in the service of the Lord." I have realized how much of an priveledge it is to be here. The time is so precious, and so short. I can't believe I am almost at my six month mark. It motivates me to work harder, because I know I will never get this time back.
I'm sorry that I made you mad about the car thing... I'll be more careful. All is being taken care of, If there is a problem that needs to be taken care of then I'll let you know.
Love you both,
Will
Monday, August 22, 2011
August 22, 2011
Yo Ihmisiä Amerikassa!
Hello Äiti, ja Isä
HAha Mother, I am going to the eye doctor in a week. The doctor in Germany gave me a call and said I should just go ahead and go. I have been wearing one contact in one eye, and leaving the other one out. Not sure why that eye is giving me a problem, but I think it is the contacts for my right eye. When I don't wear it in my right eye, I feel fine. Winter coat, I have a winter coat already, haha everything is hyvin suomessa.
Ya andrew came in a few weeks ago! He was sitting next to my District leader on the train up north when I called, and I got to talk to him for a minute. He is in a city called Kaajani, which is north west of me a little ways. He is not in my district but in my zone!! I am so excited to see him at zone conference in a couple weeks!
I am sorry to hear about grandma mckinney, It is very sad, but everything will be okay. There is a plan, and everything is part of it.
I got that package from sisar Luik!! Thank you so much for the taco stuff, and the pen, and the tortillas!!! keep them comming!! oh if you only knew how much I love them!!! I have not recieved the other package yet, but I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully it will come today!
Things have been good this week. President Rawlings came to Joensuu thursday for His fireside. Scrub, scrub, vacuum...door bell rings..." AHHHH!!!VANHIN WEAVER PICK UP YOUR UNDERWEAR!!" Just kidding... we keep a pretty clean apartment, but the mission president has not visited Joensuu for years!! We met with him for a minute, and we went to a teach. After the teach I walked out, and half the ward came! It was sweet, we also found new investigators at the fireside. President Rawlings knows how to talk with people that's for sure. He said that He is very happy with the work we're doing here, and to keep going! I was so happy to meet with him. He is so funny.
So mom you may want to sit down for this one haha... I have to come home... psych... but seriously sit down. So Vanhin Weaver and I were riding our bikes home from an area... and I love going down fast down hills!! I love the jumps, hills, anything reckless haha... anyways, we are riding and I felt a feeling saying I should slow down... I brushed it off, and kept going right through the intersection where... I GOT HIT BY A CAR!!! hahahahah it was so dang funny. I was riding... He was driving, and he slammed on his brakes, and so did I... BBOOMMM!! I got knocked off my bike, and landed on my backpack... convenient haha. Kaikki on Hyvin.. no broken bones, no injuries. My leg was sore for awhile, and I was a little shaken up. When I was on the ground, Vanhin Weaver told me, "Hey You just got hit by a car!!"... "Thanks bro!!" haha So now I slow down through cross- walks... But what is so funny is I was so excited to say that I got hit by a car. While I was getting hit, I was thinking," I'm getting hit by a car!!! haha what the deuce.. weirdo...)
This week I had my first opportunity to be senior companion. Elder Wessman and I went on splits (He was in Andrews mtc group) and everything was so legit!! We went contacting, and stuff, and I understood a lot of the finnish that was spoken. My language is really coming a long. Sometimes things don't come out super pretty, but I understand a lot, and can communicate pretty well. The gift of tongues is so real. I can't deny that. As we are simply willing to put in the effort, and do our part in the Lord's work, the Lord will take care of the rest to make sure we're successful. We talked to this one guy about the Book of Mormon, He said," Look maybe I should have God in my life, but right now I'm just not interested. Maybe someday I will die, and He will say to me, You should have read that Book, and I'll feel bad... or something like that." I started laughing so hard! Elder Wessman didn't get it, but that's okay. It is so much fun talking to people, and trying new things in finnish. I could push myself more to use different grammar principles.
I can't believe I'm in my third change... I love it.. I really am so happy.. and I can't explain it other than, Paljon Hauska tällä Joensuussa! Elder Weaver and I are still getting use to each other, but things are going really good. We are having a lot of fun, and seeing a lot of miracles every day. Sometimes I miss home, and some aspects of my old life there, but I realize that this is where I belong, and everything is all part of the plan. "All things work together for good, to them who are called of God according to his purposes (Romans 8).
I gave my first talk in Sacrament Meeting kaikki Suomeksi!!!! I didn't use one line in English! Except for a coupld words....... Also I only had a few quotes, and three vocab words written down!! I tried to do it all by my heart. I didn't bring my bible with english tabs in it, so when I went to start my talk and grabbed the churches' copy, I realized it was in Finnish!! I said, "Yksi Minuitia, and turned around to have the bishop help me find Romans in the New Testament. It was so sweet. I realized during the talk how much I love Joensuu, especially the members. They are literally my family here in Finland. I will always remember this city, and I hope I can stay here for a long time. Some elders have been able to stay here for like 8 months, I hope that is me. I don't want to leave here!!
Papa, haha Hair cuts here are like 20 Euro's... so unbelievably expensive... so I just have to make due with the clippers, and ask the mom's in our ward if my haircut looks okay!! They are all so nice, and so far I've been good! Sounds like fun with the ATVs, and you got me a poster with autographs from the BYU Football players!!!! LEgiiiit.... I will be waiting for that anxiously by the door!!
I love you all, I want to give you my testimony... That I know the Work is true, the Book is blue, and Yesss.... God is a mormon,
love :n Kanssa... eiku... Rakkaudella,
Vanhin Perry
Hello Äiti, ja Isä
HAha Mother, I am going to the eye doctor in a week. The doctor in Germany gave me a call and said I should just go ahead and go. I have been wearing one contact in one eye, and leaving the other one out. Not sure why that eye is giving me a problem, but I think it is the contacts for my right eye. When I don't wear it in my right eye, I feel fine. Winter coat, I have a winter coat already, haha everything is hyvin suomessa.
Ya andrew came in a few weeks ago! He was sitting next to my District leader on the train up north when I called, and I got to talk to him for a minute. He is in a city called Kaajani, which is north west of me a little ways. He is not in my district but in my zone!! I am so excited to see him at zone conference in a couple weeks!
I am sorry to hear about grandma mckinney, It is very sad, but everything will be okay. There is a plan, and everything is part of it.
I got that package from sisar Luik!! Thank you so much for the taco stuff, and the pen, and the tortillas!!! keep them comming!! oh if you only knew how much I love them!!! I have not recieved the other package yet, but I'm looking forward to it. Hopefully it will come today!
Things have been good this week. President Rawlings came to Joensuu thursday for His fireside. Scrub, scrub, vacuum...door bell rings..." AHHHH!!!VANHIN WEAVER PICK UP YOUR UNDERWEAR!!" Just kidding... we keep a pretty clean apartment, but the mission president has not visited Joensuu for years!! We met with him for a minute, and we went to a teach. After the teach I walked out, and half the ward came! It was sweet, we also found new investigators at the fireside. President Rawlings knows how to talk with people that's for sure. He said that He is very happy with the work we're doing here, and to keep going! I was so happy to meet with him. He is so funny.
So mom you may want to sit down for this one haha... I have to come home... psych... but seriously sit down. So Vanhin Weaver and I were riding our bikes home from an area... and I love going down fast down hills!! I love the jumps, hills, anything reckless haha... anyways, we are riding and I felt a feeling saying I should slow down... I brushed it off, and kept going right through the intersection where... I GOT HIT BY A CAR!!! hahahahah it was so dang funny. I was riding... He was driving, and he slammed on his brakes, and so did I... BBOOMMM!! I got knocked off my bike, and landed on my backpack... convenient haha. Kaikki on Hyvin.. no broken bones, no injuries. My leg was sore for awhile, and I was a little shaken up. When I was on the ground, Vanhin Weaver told me, "Hey You just got hit by a car!!"... "Thanks bro!!" haha So now I slow down through cross- walks... But what is so funny is I was so excited to say that I got hit by a car. While I was getting hit, I was thinking," I'm getting hit by a car!!! haha what the deuce.. weirdo...)
This week I had my first opportunity to be senior companion. Elder Wessman and I went on splits (He was in Andrews mtc group) and everything was so legit!! We went contacting, and stuff, and I understood a lot of the finnish that was spoken. My language is really coming a long. Sometimes things don't come out super pretty, but I understand a lot, and can communicate pretty well. The gift of tongues is so real. I can't deny that. As we are simply willing to put in the effort, and do our part in the Lord's work, the Lord will take care of the rest to make sure we're successful. We talked to this one guy about the Book of Mormon, He said," Look maybe I should have God in my life, but right now I'm just not interested. Maybe someday I will die, and He will say to me, You should have read that Book, and I'll feel bad... or something like that." I started laughing so hard! Elder Wessman didn't get it, but that's okay. It is so much fun talking to people, and trying new things in finnish. I could push myself more to use different grammar principles.
I can't believe I'm in my third change... I love it.. I really am so happy.. and I can't explain it other than, Paljon Hauska tällä Joensuussa! Elder Weaver and I are still getting use to each other, but things are going really good. We are having a lot of fun, and seeing a lot of miracles every day. Sometimes I miss home, and some aspects of my old life there, but I realize that this is where I belong, and everything is all part of the plan. "All things work together for good, to them who are called of God according to his purposes (Romans 8).
I gave my first talk in Sacrament Meeting kaikki Suomeksi!!!! I didn't use one line in English! Except for a coupld words....... Also I only had a few quotes, and three vocab words written down!! I tried to do it all by my heart. I didn't bring my bible with english tabs in it, so when I went to start my talk and grabbed the churches' copy, I realized it was in Finnish!! I said, "Yksi Minuitia, and turned around to have the bishop help me find Romans in the New Testament. It was so sweet. I realized during the talk how much I love Joensuu, especially the members. They are literally my family here in Finland. I will always remember this city, and I hope I can stay here for a long time. Some elders have been able to stay here for like 8 months, I hope that is me. I don't want to leave here!!
Papa, haha Hair cuts here are like 20 Euro's... so unbelievably expensive... so I just have to make due with the clippers, and ask the mom's in our ward if my haircut looks okay!! They are all so nice, and so far I've been good! Sounds like fun with the ATVs, and you got me a poster with autographs from the BYU Football players!!!! LEgiiiit.... I will be waiting for that anxiously by the door!!
I love you all, I want to give you my testimony... That I know the Work is true, the Book is blue, and Yesss.... God is a mormon,
love :n Kanssa... eiku... Rakkaudella,
Vanhin Perry
Monday, August 15, 2011
August 15, 2011
Alright so pretty good week!
Wau Vanhemmat! The change is over, and I am now on my third change! Next month I hit my sixth month mark wowowow!! So I felt bad when I got your letter that said I never answer your questions so I am going to do that first. Mommy: I have no idea where the cord to charge the camera is haha unless it is in natalies room either on the black shelf bin thing, or in the surge protector I always used.
We just got back from this amazing teach!!! We made time for them in our p-day schedule because they are so amazing!! We are teaching a members two kids. Their dad left their family because she refuses to leave the church. We taught about baptism today. We showed them the baptismal font, and talked about how Jesus Christ was baptized even though he was perfect. I told them the story about when I was baptized. I ran into the font, dad baptized me, and I said can I do that again?? But we commited them to baptism, and they both said yes! They all have such amazing faith. The kids understand a lot. Thank thee heavens, and all the inhabitants there for their mom haha. I am so grateful for them.
Elder Weaver... He is pretty cool. I don't know if we are as close as Elder Nielsen and I were haha. He is a lot different, but I am grateful that He is my companion. The Lord has really been helping me with my language this last little while. My capacity to speak has really improved ever since we changed companions. Vanhin Weaver has only been here three changes longer than me. So we both are very new!! But Heavenly Father has really been helping us. He is a very funny guy, He is from Texas. His grandpa bought a huge property down there and He talks about that a lot. He calls it, "The property."
It has been pretty hard, becasue although He is the senior companion, and I totally respect that, I know Joensuu better. So I have to take charge in finding, and getting places, and our investigators. I am grateful that Vanhin Nielsen trained me well because, it would be so hard without that training. Even though we are both very new, I know that Heavenly Father will help us to be strong. Despite of our incapabilities, and our capabilities we are to rely on Christ. It doesn't matter if your not confident in yourself, or your too confident in yourself!! Your confidence should rely in Christ. That is really what I have been trying to focus on this last little while.
Anyways stories!!!
We were on this huge bike ride and on the way home we saw this American Flag post mark thing!! We decided to go tract it! We turn left, and end up going down this bumpy dirt road for awhile! We get to the house, and it is full of American trucks, and cars, and there is this waterfall font thing with the statue of liberty on it!! We go up to the door, and this kid answers speaking Finnish. We ask, "Oletko Amerkiallinen?" are you an american? He answered in Finnish saying, "Olen Suomallinen haha!" The whole family was Finnish but they just really liked america. On the way out we hurried and took a picture in front of lady liberty haha.
So I gave myself a hair cut..............first time without vanhin Nielsen.....
Vanhin Weaver just shaves his whole head, and I was like heck no haha. So I sat down in front of the mirror, took a deep breath............................... bzzzzzzzzzzzzzz..... yeaaaaaaahhhhhhh...... it turned out okay haha. I didn't trust Vanhin Weaver so I asked sisar Turunen today, and she said it looks good. I hope she was being truthful. And I hope that I understood her finnish! She probably said, "Uh.. yeah... Elder Perry maybe I should hit you with my car, maybe that would make it look better....
So now to the spiritual aspect of things...
Vanhin Nielsen and I went to Kuopio to get my new comp, and we ended up going to a teach with the elders there. Apparently the Elder had felt they should go to a particular area, and they did. They knocked a door and found this amazing family who was ready to recieve the gospel. We went back for a lesson with them. This was Elder Jones (District Leader there) last lesson in Finland. He was going home with Elder Nielsen. They have a baptismal date, and are so ready to join the church! tHey were so humble and ready!! At the end of the lesson, Elder Jones gave them His name badge. They cried and the husband grabbed him and embraced him! They were saying through their tears thank you , thank you, and it was so special that I got to see that. It made me motivated to have my elder jones experience. It motivated me to go out and find those families that need this gospel. I can't even describe the spirit that was in the room. I just remember the joy in their eyes.
Elder Hunziker really motivated me to set change goals. My change goals are: Be able to teach all parts of all five lessons in finnish clearly, Read 1/4 the Book of Mormon in Finnish. Learn 3 words/ 2 phrases Daily. Make phone calls in Finnish and be able to set up appointments! (Which I have been doing, and am so excited about!!) I have more but I can't think of them. They are written, and are hung up on my wall by my desk.
I am really sad about grandma mckinney, and I wish I could be there to comfort grandma. I am running out of time, and I think my companion is giving me a dirty look... so. Dad thank you for the pictures, and I hope things go well with your acting career at the Manti pageant. I remeber going down there with jen, and thinking wow..... LAAAMEE haha but the temple is so amazing. I show that picture of maya, to everyone haha. It's a conversation starter.
Anyways I love you both, My package is with my district leader, and I am picking it up tomorrow,
Rakkaudella,
Will
Wau Vanhemmat! The change is over, and I am now on my third change! Next month I hit my sixth month mark wowowow!! So I felt bad when I got your letter that said I never answer your questions so I am going to do that first. Mommy: I have no idea where the cord to charge the camera is haha unless it is in natalies room either on the black shelf bin thing, or in the surge protector I always used.
We just got back from this amazing teach!!! We made time for them in our p-day schedule because they are so amazing!! We are teaching a members two kids. Their dad left their family because she refuses to leave the church. We taught about baptism today. We showed them the baptismal font, and talked about how Jesus Christ was baptized even though he was perfect. I told them the story about when I was baptized. I ran into the font, dad baptized me, and I said can I do that again?? But we commited them to baptism, and they both said yes! They all have such amazing faith. The kids understand a lot. Thank thee heavens, and all the inhabitants there for their mom haha. I am so grateful for them.
Elder Weaver... He is pretty cool. I don't know if we are as close as Elder Nielsen and I were haha. He is a lot different, but I am grateful that He is my companion. The Lord has really been helping me with my language this last little while. My capacity to speak has really improved ever since we changed companions. Vanhin Weaver has only been here three changes longer than me. So we both are very new!! But Heavenly Father has really been helping us. He is a very funny guy, He is from Texas. His grandpa bought a huge property down there and He talks about that a lot. He calls it, "The property."
It has been pretty hard, becasue although He is the senior companion, and I totally respect that, I know Joensuu better. So I have to take charge in finding, and getting places, and our investigators. I am grateful that Vanhin Nielsen trained me well because, it would be so hard without that training. Even though we are both very new, I know that Heavenly Father will help us to be strong. Despite of our incapabilities, and our capabilities we are to rely on Christ. It doesn't matter if your not confident in yourself, or your too confident in yourself!! Your confidence should rely in Christ. That is really what I have been trying to focus on this last little while.
Anyways stories!!!
We were on this huge bike ride and on the way home we saw this American Flag post mark thing!! We decided to go tract it! We turn left, and end up going down this bumpy dirt road for awhile! We get to the house, and it is full of American trucks, and cars, and there is this waterfall font thing with the statue of liberty on it!! We go up to the door, and this kid answers speaking Finnish. We ask, "Oletko Amerkiallinen?" are you an american? He answered in Finnish saying, "Olen Suomallinen haha!" The whole family was Finnish but they just really liked america. On the way out we hurried and took a picture in front of lady liberty haha.
So I gave myself a hair cut..............first time without vanhin Nielsen.....
Vanhin Weaver just shaves his whole head, and I was like heck no haha. So I sat down in front of the mirror, took a deep breath............................... bzzzzzzzzzzzzzz..... yeaaaaaaahhhhhhh...... it turned out okay haha. I didn't trust Vanhin Weaver so I asked sisar Turunen today, and she said it looks good. I hope she was being truthful. And I hope that I understood her finnish! She probably said, "Uh.. yeah... Elder Perry maybe I should hit you with my car, maybe that would make it look better....
So now to the spiritual aspect of things...
Vanhin Nielsen and I went to Kuopio to get my new comp, and we ended up going to a teach with the elders there. Apparently the Elder had felt they should go to a particular area, and they did. They knocked a door and found this amazing family who was ready to recieve the gospel. We went back for a lesson with them. This was Elder Jones (District Leader there) last lesson in Finland. He was going home with Elder Nielsen. They have a baptismal date, and are so ready to join the church! tHey were so humble and ready!! At the end of the lesson, Elder Jones gave them His name badge. They cried and the husband grabbed him and embraced him! They were saying through their tears thank you , thank you, and it was so special that I got to see that. It made me motivated to have my elder jones experience. It motivated me to go out and find those families that need this gospel. I can't even describe the spirit that was in the room. I just remember the joy in their eyes.
Elder Hunziker really motivated me to set change goals. My change goals are: Be able to teach all parts of all five lessons in finnish clearly, Read 1/4 the Book of Mormon in Finnish. Learn 3 words/ 2 phrases Daily. Make phone calls in Finnish and be able to set up appointments! (Which I have been doing, and am so excited about!!) I have more but I can't think of them. They are written, and are hung up on my wall by my desk.
I am really sad about grandma mckinney, and I wish I could be there to comfort grandma. I am running out of time, and I think my companion is giving me a dirty look... so. Dad thank you for the pictures, and I hope things go well with your acting career at the Manti pageant. I remeber going down there with jen, and thinking wow..... LAAAMEE haha but the temple is so amazing. I show that picture of maya, to everyone haha. It's a conversation starter.
Anyways I love you both, My package is with my district leader, and I am picking it up tomorrow,
Rakkaudella,
Will
Monday, August 8, 2011
August 8, 2011
Isä ja Äiti
This week has been a crazy week haha. Officially next week, I am no longer a greenie! But I don't think I hit my six- month mark until next month. We picked our mini- missionary up last tuesday, and dropped him off at the train station today, and wow..... crazy!! He was a good boy. Hard worker. It was so funny, because this has been a crazy hard working week. Poor guy. One day we had to go on a huge bike ride to visit a member. When we got home, we had to finish some study sessions. I walked into the room after awhile and found him asleep on the bed!! haha. It made me realize that I am so proud of our work. Elder Nielsen and I work hardd... with two d's. I remember veli Jäkkö said,"I am so tired!" haha I said,"Welcome to the life as a missionary!" It is so funny, because you wake up at 6:30am exhausted, go work out and stuff... go through the whole day exhausted haha......... then finally collapse in bed... dead + exhausted. Then start the whole thing the next day! :) I love it! Never been so happy.
President Ralings called me on Saturday and told me who my new companion is............. d.....r....u.....m....r......o...l.........l.........Vanhin Weaver!! He is so funny. He has been in my zone, and I have met him at zone conferences and stuff. He is such a good guy. But has only been in the mission like three changes more than me...... Language skills... hahahaha this is going to be crazy! Both of us are going to see some amazing gift of tongues action. I prayed that Heavenly Father would give me a testimony of my new companion, and I know that him and I are going to do great things. President Ralings also gave me the assignment to organize a fireside here, at the end of the month because He is coming to Joensuu...... but don't worry i'm not stressed.................................
I was actually really nervous to get my new companion before change call. Elder Nielsen has been an amazing companion who has really taught me how to be a missionary. I am so grateful for Him. He is one of my best friends now, and I'm going to miss him. I don't know if I told you this, but when I came to Finland I prayed that my companion would a good one, who would teach me everything I needed to know. When I had my entrance interview with President Brown, He gave me a blessing, and told me that my companion would become one of my best friends, or good friends or something like that. I want you to know that everything is going good. I am really gonna miss him.
That is so cool that you are finishing up the down stairs, and I know that when we set goals things happen. I'm sorry, but I have to go soon, Vanhin Nielsen has a lot to do before He leaves. We are going up to Kuopio tonight, and He leaves to helsinki on Wednesday, and I come back here with my new comp. Things will be good, and Looking forward to an awesome change!
love you,
Will
This week has been a crazy week haha. Officially next week, I am no longer a greenie! But I don't think I hit my six- month mark until next month. We picked our mini- missionary up last tuesday, and dropped him off at the train station today, and wow..... crazy!! He was a good boy. Hard worker. It was so funny, because this has been a crazy hard working week. Poor guy. One day we had to go on a huge bike ride to visit a member. When we got home, we had to finish some study sessions. I walked into the room after awhile and found him asleep on the bed!! haha. It made me realize that I am so proud of our work. Elder Nielsen and I work hardd... with two d's. I remember veli Jäkkö said,"I am so tired!" haha I said,"Welcome to the life as a missionary!" It is so funny, because you wake up at 6:30am exhausted, go work out and stuff... go through the whole day exhausted haha......... then finally collapse in bed... dead + exhausted. Then start the whole thing the next day! :) I love it! Never been so happy.
President Ralings called me on Saturday and told me who my new companion is............. d.....r....u.....m....r......o...l.........l.........Vanhin Weaver!! He is so funny. He has been in my zone, and I have met him at zone conferences and stuff. He is such a good guy. But has only been in the mission like three changes more than me...... Language skills... hahahaha this is going to be crazy! Both of us are going to see some amazing gift of tongues action. I prayed that Heavenly Father would give me a testimony of my new companion, and I know that him and I are going to do great things. President Ralings also gave me the assignment to organize a fireside here, at the end of the month because He is coming to Joensuu...... but don't worry i'm not stressed.................................
I was actually really nervous to get my new companion before change call. Elder Nielsen has been an amazing companion who has really taught me how to be a missionary. I am so grateful for Him. He is one of my best friends now, and I'm going to miss him. I don't know if I told you this, but when I came to Finland I prayed that my companion would a good one, who would teach me everything I needed to know. When I had my entrance interview with President Brown, He gave me a blessing, and told me that my companion would become one of my best friends, or good friends or something like that. I want you to know that everything is going good. I am really gonna miss him.
That is so cool that you are finishing up the down stairs, and I know that when we set goals things happen. I'm sorry, but I have to go soon, Vanhin Nielsen has a lot to do before He leaves. We are going up to Kuopio tonight, and He leaves to helsinki on Wednesday, and I come back here with my new comp. Things will be good, and Looking forward to an awesome change!
love you,
Will
Saturday, August 6, 2011
August 1, 2011
Terve! Perheni!
Hyvää Viekoa Suomessa!
We are doing very well here in Finland, having so much fun! We have been laughing at almost everything. We actually just recieved an awesome assignment from President Ralings. We are getting a mini- missionary. His name is Ville Jäkkö! We pick him up from the train station tomorrow. It's going to be legit! Every year in Suomi the youth get to come work with the missionaries for a week. I think He is like 17. So He will be with us all week, so pray that we'll train him good! It is going to be an awesome opportunity for me to learn finnish better. Vanhin Nielsen was in his ward somewhere in Southern Finland. Say's he's crazy! L-E-G-I-T!!
Anyways, I have a lot to share this week haha. First of all, last week I forgot to tell you. We were cutting bushes for a guy in our ward. I was using the saw, and was on this stand so I could reach over the bush. The stand was about 5 feet long, so I started cutting and cutting, inching over, and over, and over... Getting every single stray branch... until... AHHhhhhhhhhhhhh I fell off the stand into a stinging neddel bush hahahaha!! It started killing!! Vanhin Linden (He's a swede) took me to the car and bandaged me up hahah. Now I have these huge red marks on my legs that itch like a mother bear!!!
Kokemus numero kaksi... We were tracting last week and we came across this guy who said I don't have time right now, come back huomena at 2. So we of course came back. Him and his wife were so nice. They put out cookies and juice, and awesome! However... Then He talked to us for two hours about how our church was wrong, and all of these faults. He told us straight up that Christ was going to reject us at the last day because we are preaching false things. Told us all these things, that weren't true from the bible. But for some reason nothing was coming to our minds to defend ourselves. We held our cool. We bore testimony of the things we did know, and left. It was really hard for me. I think it was the first time in my life when my testimony was really challenged. But I went home, and we talked about it for a minute. I said a personal prayer. And I know without a doubt I am where I am because the Lord sent me. I was so impressed with my companions answer to His statements. He said, "I cannot deny what I have felt, and what I know to be true." He said that with power and authority. He also said that was the worst bible bash lesson He has ever been to.
But for some reason it still bothered me. I couldn't explain some of the questions, and statements he brought up. It made for an awesome personal study!
I studied out the arguements, and what our church really believes. Everything can be explained in the scriptures, and through personal revelation. Poligamy, blacks and the priesthood, callings by prophecy, Diety, any question can be answered. And Heavenly Father helped me to feel peace. That man was not ready to recieve the gospel. Anything that we would have shared would have been thrown right back at our face.
It was really funny, because he said something along the lines of why aren't you mad at what I'm saying? The answer is, because we know our message is true. It doesn't matter if people don't agree with it, or try to justify it. The law is the law. "Behold this is the way, and there is none other way nor name given under Heaven whereby men can be saved in the Kingdom of God."
Our investigators are doing very well. We went through a short while where all our baptismal dates fell through. But Heavenly Father has really been helping us with our investigators. One of our investigators asked to see the baptismal font haha. We are really progressing here, not just with our investigators but as individuals. Elder Nielsen and I have really been working on the principal of becoming. Elder Bednar said,"There is a difference between doing missionary things, and becoming a missionary." "Someone can go on a mission without becoming a missionary." I have realized that the thing that distinguishes a good missionary from a christ-like missionary is in goal setting. It doesn't matter what you are doing in this life, if you don't set goals you won't become the best at what you do. Heavenly Father really showed me some goals that would help me to become rather than just doing good things.
So ya... now down to the serious things haha. Everytime we get in the elevator, I have a panic attack and I start telling Elder Nielsen that I HATE ELEVATORS!!! Haha He get's annoyed everytime haha. One time I did it, and we walked out of the elevator and a guy was standing there looking at us like, "What the weird??" Haha I was laughing all the way down the street. I do it everyday at 11 O'clock sharp! We have been having so much fun. Elder Nielsen and I are like best friends. I can't believe the change is almost over! I get my new companion next week. I love elder Nielsen. We are literally like the same person, both stubborn, but just these two little kids always having fun. uhmmm.. Men... Football... uhmm Rugby!!
So mother, thank you so much for the stuff, and I hope that it is the jersey kind, but I trust you. Thank you so much! Elder Nielsen is going home next week, and He is wondering if you can help him with FAFSA. I told him that you could, and you would probably have things ready for him before he gets home. Also I told him about your amazing taco's and enchiladas. He wants to come visit you and say hi. I think he is expecting those meals. If he asks I never used rubber sheets, He thinks I did, but I promised him I didn't... after I was sixteen... I guess that's better than when Rhett slept in His parents bed because he was scarred of the grudge!! Does this go to him?? anyways... if it does, SHout out to RHETT!! Yo bro! Man you ridin the Jet SKiis in CaBo BRa!? Send me his address so I can write him.
Daddy, You flooded your basement?? haha that is ei hyvää!! Mutta, I used to love the samoens by grandma. Everytime we drove up they'd stare us down!! But we would smile and waive, and then we would get the smile of approval haha. I think I am going to send some chocolate to her. How is the M1A holding up without it's owner haha? Did I say that out loud?? How is Toni? Tell her Hi!
So many experiences but such little time....... I miss you family. Pray for you, Rauha!!
Rakaudella, sinun poiasasi,
Vanhin Perry
Hyvää Viekoa Suomessa!
We are doing very well here in Finland, having so much fun! We have been laughing at almost everything. We actually just recieved an awesome assignment from President Ralings. We are getting a mini- missionary. His name is Ville Jäkkö! We pick him up from the train station tomorrow. It's going to be legit! Every year in Suomi the youth get to come work with the missionaries for a week. I think He is like 17. So He will be with us all week, so pray that we'll train him good! It is going to be an awesome opportunity for me to learn finnish better. Vanhin Nielsen was in his ward somewhere in Southern Finland. Say's he's crazy! L-E-G-I-T!!
Anyways, I have a lot to share this week haha. First of all, last week I forgot to tell you. We were cutting bushes for a guy in our ward. I was using the saw, and was on this stand so I could reach over the bush. The stand was about 5 feet long, so I started cutting and cutting, inching over, and over, and over... Getting every single stray branch... until... AHHhhhhhhhhhhhh I fell off the stand into a stinging neddel bush hahahaha!! It started killing!! Vanhin Linden (He's a swede) took me to the car and bandaged me up hahah. Now I have these huge red marks on my legs that itch like a mother bear!!!
Kokemus numero kaksi... We were tracting last week and we came across this guy who said I don't have time right now, come back huomena at 2. So we of course came back. Him and his wife were so nice. They put out cookies and juice, and awesome! However... Then He talked to us for two hours about how our church was wrong, and all of these faults. He told us straight up that Christ was going to reject us at the last day because we are preaching false things. Told us all these things, that weren't true from the bible. But for some reason nothing was coming to our minds to defend ourselves. We held our cool. We bore testimony of the things we did know, and left. It was really hard for me. I think it was the first time in my life when my testimony was really challenged. But I went home, and we talked about it for a minute. I said a personal prayer. And I know without a doubt I am where I am because the Lord sent me. I was so impressed with my companions answer to His statements. He said, "I cannot deny what I have felt, and what I know to be true." He said that with power and authority. He also said that was the worst bible bash lesson He has ever been to.
But for some reason it still bothered me. I couldn't explain some of the questions, and statements he brought up. It made for an awesome personal study!
I studied out the arguements, and what our church really believes. Everything can be explained in the scriptures, and through personal revelation. Poligamy, blacks and the priesthood, callings by prophecy, Diety, any question can be answered. And Heavenly Father helped me to feel peace. That man was not ready to recieve the gospel. Anything that we would have shared would have been thrown right back at our face.
It was really funny, because he said something along the lines of why aren't you mad at what I'm saying? The answer is, because we know our message is true. It doesn't matter if people don't agree with it, or try to justify it. The law is the law. "Behold this is the way, and there is none other way nor name given under Heaven whereby men can be saved in the Kingdom of God."
Our investigators are doing very well. We went through a short while where all our baptismal dates fell through. But Heavenly Father has really been helping us with our investigators. One of our investigators asked to see the baptismal font haha. We are really progressing here, not just with our investigators but as individuals. Elder Nielsen and I have really been working on the principal of becoming. Elder Bednar said,"There is a difference between doing missionary things, and becoming a missionary." "Someone can go on a mission without becoming a missionary." I have realized that the thing that distinguishes a good missionary from a christ-like missionary is in goal setting. It doesn't matter what you are doing in this life, if you don't set goals you won't become the best at what you do. Heavenly Father really showed me some goals that would help me to become rather than just doing good things.
So ya... now down to the serious things haha. Everytime we get in the elevator, I have a panic attack and I start telling Elder Nielsen that I HATE ELEVATORS!!! Haha He get's annoyed everytime haha. One time I did it, and we walked out of the elevator and a guy was standing there looking at us like, "What the weird??" Haha I was laughing all the way down the street. I do it everyday at 11 O'clock sharp! We have been having so much fun. Elder Nielsen and I are like best friends. I can't believe the change is almost over! I get my new companion next week. I love elder Nielsen. We are literally like the same person, both stubborn, but just these two little kids always having fun. uhmmm.. Men... Football... uhmm Rugby!!
So mother, thank you so much for the stuff, and I hope that it is the jersey kind, but I trust you. Thank you so much! Elder Nielsen is going home next week, and He is wondering if you can help him with FAFSA. I told him that you could, and you would probably have things ready for him before he gets home. Also I told him about your amazing taco's and enchiladas. He wants to come visit you and say hi. I think he is expecting those meals. If he asks I never used rubber sheets, He thinks I did, but I promised him I didn't... after I was sixteen... I guess that's better than when Rhett slept in His parents bed because he was scarred of the grudge!! Does this go to him?? anyways... if it does, SHout out to RHETT!! Yo bro! Man you ridin the Jet SKiis in CaBo BRa!? Send me his address so I can write him.
Daddy, You flooded your basement?? haha that is ei hyvää!! Mutta, I used to love the samoens by grandma. Everytime we drove up they'd stare us down!! But we would smile and waive, and then we would get the smile of approval haha. I think I am going to send some chocolate to her. How is the M1A holding up without it's owner haha? Did I say that out loud?? How is Toni? Tell her Hi!
So many experiences but such little time....... I miss you family. Pray for you, Rauha!!
Rakaudella, sinun poiasasi,
Vanhin Perry
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