Mi Familia,
Felicidades a Alicia! Que buenisimo! Va a BYU! Es el mejor cosa que he oido todavia. Supe que podia hacerlo. El Senor ha oido a mis oraciones. Estoy super animado por usted. Puede ser amigas con las chicas que yo conoci del semestre pasado.
Thanks for the Dear Elders! I got them all Tuesday night because of the Holiday weekend. Sounds like things are going well. Great job doing missionary work! That is so great that you are working hard, Mom. We heard a story about missionaries that left a Book of Mormon at a woman's house during her sewing club in Europe I think it was. They all got baptized years later and they have estimated 1200-1500 members as a result of that Book of Mormon. Loco, no?
The house sounds like it will be a lot different when I get home! I am excited for you - new appliances are fun. Thanks for the quote on faith. I had been thinking a lot about faith on Tuesday, and it just made things make a lot more sense. Faith is so important! Yet faith without works is dead. But I also believe that works without faith is dead. You need both.
I hosted again on Tuesday. It went well! It is fun to see new Elders come. I feel really old, and it doesn't help that all the younger districts tell us we seem older too. But it is just how the MTC works - haha. I got a scripture case for my Spanish scriptures. They are perfect. I love reading my Spanish scriptures and can understand most of it!
We have another Elder going home. He has been here two weeks. He is going home because of some unresolved issues from before the mission, but I think he will be back. I don't know too many details but his district is taking it hard. I have been trying to reach out. It is hard to say bye to a brother.
Things are going really good. I am learning a ton! I can't believe my scheduled departure date is in 11 days! I hope I will be ready - haha, but know that I will learn a lot more there. Most Elders going to Mexico are leaving only 5-7 days late right now. Visas are improving fast and it should be around that or less for me. We will see soon! Last night Elder Peck and I talked to one of the teachers from Mexico about our mission. He said that the people are very small, and a lot darker. He said probably 10 times that we will be right where the Book of Mormon took place and close to where Christ visited the Americas. He is so excited for us. He said the people have so much faith and when they promise to do something they will keep their promises. That is pretty much the opposite of what I have heard so far about Mexico. He also said you can never say no when you are offered food. Haha - perfect, I have justification. It made me so excited. It is still unreal to me. I can't wait until I am there serving the people.
Things are going great. I am so happy, the happiest I have ever been in my life. I think I am doing well with teaching. I am working my hardest. The Spanish is coming along really well. Elder Peck and I get along so well, I love him. I couldn't ask for anything more. I love my district and zone! Things are just wonderful. If I have learned anything here it is how much I have been blessed in my life. I have the best family! I really took you for granted before my mission. I wish I would have realized how blessed I am. I also have the best friends ever! I am still getting a lot of letters and I feel so loved. Everyone has supported me to go on a mission and I appreciate it so much.
This church is so true. It is Christ’s restored church on the earth. We are so blessed to have a prophet and revelation in a time of so many hardships in the world. I know the Book of Mormon is true and that Christ lives. The atonement is real. He loves us.
I miss you and love you.
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
En Cumora Estaba el Registro Santo, Libro Fiel
Mi Familia,
This week was the hardest at the MTC. I am doing great but just a lot going on!
On Friday Hermana Busch left (a Hermana from my District.) They needed a sister missionary early in San Fernando so she left. It was so hard to say bye. She felt like one of my real sisters. We had a testimony meeting and I just cried the whole time I was up there. Her companion had a really hard time. She was crying that day and I could just tell she was struggling. I asked her if she wanted a blessing and she said yes. I gave her a blessing right after lunch. It was the most powerful blessing I have ever given. She wrote me a note later saying how much she was struggling and just that I said everything she needed to hear. Isn't it amazing what the Lord can do?
One of the Elders from the district just below mine left as well. He had to take care of some stuff back home. I don't know any details. But I said bye to him three times throughout the day and every time just told him to do everything he can to get back in the field. He said he would. That night I felt like I should go and write in my journal at his desk. Elder Klaassen, his companion, his roommates and I were all sitting in there. We all just started sobbing. I closed the door and just sat and cried with them. We are so proud of how strong he is. They just had trouble saying bye because he was such a good example. When we were crying hardest I said we should pray. We all got on our knees and I prayed. I have never felt so close to God in a prayer. After the prayer we all hugged and just talked. They are doing a lot better. This was the same day Hermana Busch left. I learned that this mission is not about me though. If I sit around and think about how hard it is and how I never want to go through that again it is just going to be worse. I'm doing this for the Lord and my feelings need to be set aside. I am really happy and know that those missionaries were here for a purpose and now need to go and do what the Lord needs them to do next.
The new district is doing well. We got new Zone Leaders - Elder Klaassen and his companion. We will show them around and then they take over Sunday. In our meetings this Sunday the Branch Presidency went on and on about how great Elder Peck and I did. I did my best so I am glad it was enough! It is crazy that my time at the MTC is coming to a close.
On Sunday nights we watch movies and this week I got to sit next to Trevor! (Or Elder Knight rather.) It was so fun and felt like old times, Which was also weird to mix the MTC and home. But it was fun nonetheless.
Teaching has been going really well. Our teachers are progressing investigators and we committed both to Baptismal dates. I feel like our teaching is really improving. One of them asked if they could get baptized earlier than March 5th, and the lesson before we had to tell him he needed to pray (haha). It is amazing how much the spirit helps even in those practices. I don't know who, but a general authority or someone over the MTC said that role plays are how the Lord prepares his missionaries. It is so true. It is so much easier to speak Spanish in those lessons. At the TRC we taught a Hispanic Elder. It was humbling. I had no idea what he was saying (because of how fast he was talking) but I just knew he was bringing up a problem by the way he was saying it. Elder Peck looked at me and I was thinking "oh hombre." I just looked at him and held up the Book of Mormon and said all of the answers and everything you need is in here. Haha - it is so great to be able to trust in the Book of Mormon like that.
This week was crazy but a huge learning experience and I feel like I have grown a lot. I can't believe I might be in Mexico in a couple of weeks. I feel pretty ready and I am excited to go. I love you all so much and miss you. I hope all is well. I still pray for you every day! I love it here and I feel like a missionary. I am so glad I am here and wouldn't trade this for anything.
Con Amor,
Elder Stevenson
This week was the hardest at the MTC. I am doing great but just a lot going on!
On Friday Hermana Busch left (a Hermana from my District.) They needed a sister missionary early in San Fernando so she left. It was so hard to say bye. She felt like one of my real sisters. We had a testimony meeting and I just cried the whole time I was up there. Her companion had a really hard time. She was crying that day and I could just tell she was struggling. I asked her if she wanted a blessing and she said yes. I gave her a blessing right after lunch. It was the most powerful blessing I have ever given. She wrote me a note later saying how much she was struggling and just that I said everything she needed to hear. Isn't it amazing what the Lord can do?
One of the Elders from the district just below mine left as well. He had to take care of some stuff back home. I don't know any details. But I said bye to him three times throughout the day and every time just told him to do everything he can to get back in the field. He said he would. That night I felt like I should go and write in my journal at his desk. Elder Klaassen, his companion, his roommates and I were all sitting in there. We all just started sobbing. I closed the door and just sat and cried with them. We are so proud of how strong he is. They just had trouble saying bye because he was such a good example. When we were crying hardest I said we should pray. We all got on our knees and I prayed. I have never felt so close to God in a prayer. After the prayer we all hugged and just talked. They are doing a lot better. This was the same day Hermana Busch left. I learned that this mission is not about me though. If I sit around and think about how hard it is and how I never want to go through that again it is just going to be worse. I'm doing this for the Lord and my feelings need to be set aside. I am really happy and know that those missionaries were here for a purpose and now need to go and do what the Lord needs them to do next.
The new district is doing well. We got new Zone Leaders - Elder Klaassen and his companion. We will show them around and then they take over Sunday. In our meetings this Sunday the Branch Presidency went on and on about how great Elder Peck and I did. I did my best so I am glad it was enough! It is crazy that my time at the MTC is coming to a close.
On Sunday nights we watch movies and this week I got to sit next to Trevor! (Or Elder Knight rather.) It was so fun and felt like old times, Which was also weird to mix the MTC and home. But it was fun nonetheless.
Teaching has been going really well. Our teachers are progressing investigators and we committed both to Baptismal dates. I feel like our teaching is really improving. One of them asked if they could get baptized earlier than March 5th, and the lesson before we had to tell him he needed to pray (haha). It is amazing how much the spirit helps even in those practices. I don't know who, but a general authority or someone over the MTC said that role plays are how the Lord prepares his missionaries. It is so true. It is so much easier to speak Spanish in those lessons. At the TRC we taught a Hispanic Elder. It was humbling. I had no idea what he was saying (because of how fast he was talking) but I just knew he was bringing up a problem by the way he was saying it. Elder Peck looked at me and I was thinking "oh hombre." I just looked at him and held up the Book of Mormon and said all of the answers and everything you need is in here. Haha - it is so great to be able to trust in the Book of Mormon like that.
This week was crazy but a huge learning experience and I feel like I have grown a lot. I can't believe I might be in Mexico in a couple of weeks. I feel pretty ready and I am excited to go. I love you all so much and miss you. I hope all is well. I still pray for you every day! I love it here and I feel like a missionary. I am so glad I am here and wouldn't trade this for anything.
Con Amor,
Elder Stevenson
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Los Que Siembran con Lágrimas, con Aregocijo Segarán
Mi Familia,
I feel like I just wrote home, ha I kind of did! But I cannot believe how fast the MTC is going by.
I hosted yesterday, and I got Trevor! It was so fun. I gave him the limited edition extension tour. That includes a trip to my room and secrets of the MTC. It was so fun. He lives far away from me but his classroom is just a floor up. We have completely different schedules which is a bummer. I also saw my friend Cody Jenson (from BYU) who is also going to Mexico. I gave him a hug and he seemed happy and ready to go. The rest was pretty weird. I am not sure if I liked it. It brought back memories of my first day and made me realize how little I think about home. I am happy when I am not reflecting on it! But yesterday I feel like I got a taste as I heard the BYU bell tower ringing and thought about when I got here at the MTC. I am glad I am so far into the mission and am not homesick anymore. I love it here!
Trevor's comp is from Twin Falls Idaho and knows Elder Webb who was in my district before he went to the Peru MTC. Trevor said he really likes him. Awesome!
Elder Shaw left Wednesday morning. No problems this time. It was so hard to say bye. He was such a great missionary and he motivated me to be better. I cried a little. Man tears of course. But I wrote him a note and got to have somewhat of a good bye. He wrote our district a note and addressed some to all of us. He told me I have that "Cali groove" (haha) and that he felt like he could talk to me. It made me happy. I definitely need to stay in contact with him after the mission.
Have you heard anything about the Mexico visa drama? I guess some random people want the church to take a stand on illegal immigration. Let me know if there is any big news. The Elders who I thought got visas actually just didn't get reassigned. But we will see what happens.
We got a new district and they seem good. I like them but don't feel like I am even going to get to know them very well because my departure date is in 18 days! We will see though. Our zone has 42 missionaries now. Tan loco! Before we came in there was 14 I think. It is weird to see so much change but fun too. Our district feels so old now. I like it.
This week is going to be great. Hermana Verwer said it is going to be "La Semana de Poder." We are going to teach a ton of lessons and work really hard on Spanish. I am more motivated than I think I ever have been and I can't wait to learn and teach more.
Things are going great. I am learning so much! Elder Peck and I are getting along very well and teaching with the Spirit. I am sad we are going to have to part ways pretty soon. But it will be ok. I am so happy to be here and am learning so much. It is crazy.
Pues, me encanta el CCM. Estoy aprendiendo mas cada dia. La zona esta bien y todas las cosas en mi vida son fantasticos! Vida es buenisima. Quiero que ensene todavida! Pero paciencia es un virtud. En tiempo, yo voy a hacer las cosas reales de misioneros! Estoy feliz!
I hope everything is going well at home. I hope to hear from you soon. Sounds like everything is good. The Lord has blessed us so much. It is amazing to know his true church is on the earth today, and that we know how to obtain eternal salvation. I can't wait to share it with others. I love you and miss you. Words cannot express how grateful I am for all of you.
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
I feel like I just wrote home, ha I kind of did! But I cannot believe how fast the MTC is going by.
I hosted yesterday, and I got Trevor! It was so fun. I gave him the limited edition extension tour. That includes a trip to my room and secrets of the MTC. It was so fun. He lives far away from me but his classroom is just a floor up. We have completely different schedules which is a bummer. I also saw my friend Cody Jenson (from BYU) who is also going to Mexico. I gave him a hug and he seemed happy and ready to go. The rest was pretty weird. I am not sure if I liked it. It brought back memories of my first day and made me realize how little I think about home. I am happy when I am not reflecting on it! But yesterday I feel like I got a taste as I heard the BYU bell tower ringing and thought about when I got here at the MTC. I am glad I am so far into the mission and am not homesick anymore. I love it here!
Trevor's comp is from Twin Falls Idaho and knows Elder Webb who was in my district before he went to the Peru MTC. Trevor said he really likes him. Awesome!
Elder Shaw left Wednesday morning. No problems this time. It was so hard to say bye. He was such a great missionary and he motivated me to be better. I cried a little. Man tears of course. But I wrote him a note and got to have somewhat of a good bye. He wrote our district a note and addressed some to all of us. He told me I have that "Cali groove" (haha) and that he felt like he could talk to me. It made me happy. I definitely need to stay in contact with him after the mission.
Have you heard anything about the Mexico visa drama? I guess some random people want the church to take a stand on illegal immigration. Let me know if there is any big news. The Elders who I thought got visas actually just didn't get reassigned. But we will see what happens.
We got a new district and they seem good. I like them but don't feel like I am even going to get to know them very well because my departure date is in 18 days! We will see though. Our zone has 42 missionaries now. Tan loco! Before we came in there was 14 I think. It is weird to see so much change but fun too. Our district feels so old now. I like it.
This week is going to be great. Hermana Verwer said it is going to be "La Semana de Poder." We are going to teach a ton of lessons and work really hard on Spanish. I am more motivated than I think I ever have been and I can't wait to learn and teach more.
Things are going great. I am learning so much! Elder Peck and I are getting along very well and teaching with the Spirit. I am sad we are going to have to part ways pretty soon. But it will be ok. I am so happy to be here and am learning so much. It is crazy.
Pues, me encanta el CCM. Estoy aprendiendo mas cada dia. La zona esta bien y todas las cosas en mi vida son fantasticos! Vida es buenisima. Quiero que ensene todavida! Pero paciencia es un virtud. En tiempo, yo voy a hacer las cosas reales de misioneros! Estoy feliz!
I hope everything is going well at home. I hope to hear from you soon. Sounds like everything is good. The Lord has blessed us so much. It is amazing to know his true church is on the earth today, and that we know how to obtain eternal salvation. I can't wait to share it with others. I love you and miss you. Words cannot express how grateful I am for all of you.
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Si Alguno De Vosotros Tiene Falta De Sabiduria...
Mi Familia,
Time is flying by here at the MTC.
First of all, Trevor is not in our zone. We are getting a new district but he is not in it. I am super bummed but I am hosting tomorrow and I am going to host him if I can. I am so excited to have him here nonetheless.
Mom, I am glad you are not getting to close on your cruise. That would be so crazy! It is going to be so fun. I am excited to get my picture with the family and Temple on the back. I love using pictures to teach. I did get a “Dear John” from Grandmary which was HILARIOUS! Everyone in the district wanted to read it and even my teacher Hermano Law read it. So funny. It made my day. I had a fun valentine’s day and I gave the HLJ rings and Strength of Youth pamphlets out. Everyone loved them. So, thanks!
Dad, that was so awesome to read about Tanner's headlamp and all the hiking you are doing. I wish I could go! Philmont seems so long ago but it was so fun. You and Tanner are going to have a blast. It also sounds like Tanner's talk went great! Could I have a copy of it? Thanks!
Things are going great. Elder Peck and I are improving a lot on our teaching. I love him so much. We get along so well. My Spanish is improving and I love speaking it. In fact, I am starting to forget a lot of English already. I forget words and usually have to ask someone to figure out the word I am trying to say. It might sound silly but I think it is awesome. I was talking to some English speaking Elders and one of them was telling me a story, I don't remember what about. But at one point I said, "in serious?" Because we say "en serio" in Spanish, which means “seriously”. It was pretty funny and luckily he didn't point it out. I am going to have a rough time coming back. Haha!
Lately I have been studying stories in the Book of Mormon that I can apply to investigators. There are so many stories. I can find something applicable to almost any scenario. It is so awesome. I wish I could use it with my High School friends. Not to mention that but just answer their questions. I kind of want them to just post questions on my Facebook or something then I can just write a letter home with responses and you can post them on Facebook? High School friends: Do It! I will answer any question.
Earlier this week I heard that 7 out of the 80 missionaries going to Mexico (that were scheduled to leave this week) got their visas and the rest were getting reassigned. Crazy! I was a little bummed. Next thing I knew at gym they said they were all departing this week. Probably like 75 out of 80. I have no idea how accurate those numbers are but it sounds like improvement. I am hoping my visa comes in time. I could be in Mexico in three weeks!
On Sunday I saw President Brady! He is in one of the Branch Presidencies here. He asked what ward and said he knew Dad and remembered coming to our Mission Prep. I was so excited to see him and he kept saying thanks for saying hi. I had to run to catch up with him! But it’s always fun to see a familiar face.
Speaking of familiar faces, it turns out that Hermana Busch, one of the Hemanas in my district, knows my friend Alli Rietz from home (in Idaho)! I met Alli at BYU and she was one of the coolest people I know! Hermana Busch and I took pictures of us shaking hands for her. Haha.
I saw Jake DeBruyn on Sunday and he left Monday at like 2 AM. It was fun to say bye. He is so ready for the field and has a really great attitude. It made me want to work harder. It is so weird that my friends and I are on missions! It is such a great work.
The new district is great. I love them. Elder Shaw got his Visa and is leaving tomorrow for the Peru MTC. I am going to miss him so much! I can't believe I am going to have to say bye to my district soon. It is going to be hard.
I memorized James (Santiago) 1:5 this week. I am trying to just do better every day and be the best missionary I can be. I have no time to be sad or homesick right now. I absolutely love it here and can't wait to get out and teach. I hope everything is going well at home. Thanks for your prayers and support. Les amo!
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Time is flying by here at the MTC.
First of all, Trevor is not in our zone. We are getting a new district but he is not in it. I am super bummed but I am hosting tomorrow and I am going to host him if I can. I am so excited to have him here nonetheless.
Mom, I am glad you are not getting to close on your cruise. That would be so crazy! It is going to be so fun. I am excited to get my picture with the family and Temple on the back. I love using pictures to teach. I did get a “Dear John” from Grandmary which was HILARIOUS! Everyone in the district wanted to read it and even my teacher Hermano Law read it. So funny. It made my day. I had a fun valentine’s day and I gave the HLJ rings and Strength of Youth pamphlets out. Everyone loved them. So, thanks!
Dad, that was so awesome to read about Tanner's headlamp and all the hiking you are doing. I wish I could go! Philmont seems so long ago but it was so fun. You and Tanner are going to have a blast. It also sounds like Tanner's talk went great! Could I have a copy of it? Thanks!
Things are going great. Elder Peck and I are improving a lot on our teaching. I love him so much. We get along so well. My Spanish is improving and I love speaking it. In fact, I am starting to forget a lot of English already. I forget words and usually have to ask someone to figure out the word I am trying to say. It might sound silly but I think it is awesome. I was talking to some English speaking Elders and one of them was telling me a story, I don't remember what about. But at one point I said, "in serious?" Because we say "en serio" in Spanish, which means “seriously”. It was pretty funny and luckily he didn't point it out. I am going to have a rough time coming back. Haha!
Lately I have been studying stories in the Book of Mormon that I can apply to investigators. There are so many stories. I can find something applicable to almost any scenario. It is so awesome. I wish I could use it with my High School friends. Not to mention that but just answer their questions. I kind of want them to just post questions on my Facebook or something then I can just write a letter home with responses and you can post them on Facebook? High School friends: Do It! I will answer any question.
Earlier this week I heard that 7 out of the 80 missionaries going to Mexico (that were scheduled to leave this week) got their visas and the rest were getting reassigned. Crazy! I was a little bummed. Next thing I knew at gym they said they were all departing this week. Probably like 75 out of 80. I have no idea how accurate those numbers are but it sounds like improvement. I am hoping my visa comes in time. I could be in Mexico in three weeks!
On Sunday I saw President Brady! He is in one of the Branch Presidencies here. He asked what ward and said he knew Dad and remembered coming to our Mission Prep. I was so excited to see him and he kept saying thanks for saying hi. I had to run to catch up with him! But it’s always fun to see a familiar face.
Speaking of familiar faces, it turns out that Hermana Busch, one of the Hemanas in my district, knows my friend Alli Rietz from home (in Idaho)! I met Alli at BYU and she was one of the coolest people I know! Hermana Busch and I took pictures of us shaking hands for her. Haha.
I saw Jake DeBruyn on Sunday and he left Monday at like 2 AM. It was fun to say bye. He is so ready for the field and has a really great attitude. It made me want to work harder. It is so weird that my friends and I are on missions! It is such a great work.
The new district is great. I love them. Elder Shaw got his Visa and is leaving tomorrow for the Peru MTC. I am going to miss him so much! I can't believe I am going to have to say bye to my district soon. It is going to be hard.
I memorized James (Santiago) 1:5 this week. I am trying to just do better every day and be the best missionary I can be. I have no time to be sad or homesick right now. I absolutely love it here and can't wait to get out and teach. I hope everything is going well at home. Thanks for your prayers and support. Les amo!
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Thursday, February 10, 2011
Con Todo Vuestro Corazon, Alma, Mente y Fuerza
Mi Familia,
I cannot believe how fast time is going, but I am still learning a lot!
Mom, thanks for the Dear Elder! It was so fun hearing from you on the same day as my email home. The pictures were great, I love them. Everyone wants to see them. They make me feel like you are all with me! I still want a small one to keep in my pocket, with a picture of the San Diego Temple on the back. That would be so cool to show people. I have one of Christ getting baptized that I use in lessons, it is so effective and I think it will work great in the streets. I can get a scripture case here so do not worry about it! They are cool and pretty cheap. Also where is Elder Warren going? I will look out for him.
Trevor sent me a Dear Elder with all of his information about when he is coming in. I signed up yesterday to be a host so hopefully that works out. If I can get out there and I see him while he is driving in, I can just chase after the car and host him for sure. I will find out Sunday if he will be in our zone, and let you know on Tuesday. Trevor, look out for me! Bring two suits for the MTC if possible then send one home and only bring one to the mission. Make sure you have shower sandals. And you don't need a robe. Other than that, just bring what it says.
We got a new district yesterday. I love them and they are way on top of things. They are going to Argentina. I am going to take them on the MTC tour tonight. Their biggest star in the new district is the Grandson of Lyle on Napoleon Dynamite (the old man that shoots the cow). So rad.
P-day was really good. I saw my friend Ben from Writing 150 at the temple. His brother went through and is going to the Anaheim Mission. Frio frijoles. I love the temple and having that day to refresh for the rest of the week, even though it is way busy!
We had a devotional Tuesday which was great. Elder Gavarret of the 70 spoke. He had a heavy Hispanic accent. It was awesome! I knew exactly why he was pronouncing things and wording things like he was. It is fun to see cool things like that, and seeing that my Spanish is developing. Dad, did you say I was wording things like Spanish in your last Dear Elder? That is so funny if that is true. I can already feel my English skills deteriorating a little. It is going to be hard coming back and speaking English and taking college classes right when I get home!
The MTC is going to change how they teach in August. I don't think I am supposed to know but Hermano Law told us. He said he didn't know if he was supposed to tell us either. Haha! There are going to be 8 mini lessons to help investigators be converted. I think you also start teaching in your mission language on the second day, compared to 4 and one half weeks now. It is all about making the investigator have a relationship with God. We will get those lessons and info in the field.
I memorized Doctrine and Covenants 4 in Spanish! I am so happy and it was one of my weekly goals. I am still learning a lot and doing my best to speak as much Spanish as possible. It is coming along and getting faster. The Lord is helping me out a lot! It is so amazing to see the help he gives us. It is more apparent here.
I am so happy to be here. I am even more excited for Mexico. It is barely starting to get remotely real. I can imagine myself there a little. I know it won't be real until I am there and maybe not until I have been there for a while. Things are so good right now. I have spiritual experiences every day. I learn more Spanish every day. My testimony gets stronger every day. I am so excited to find the people I am supposed to find and teach. I am so excited to serve the Mexican people.
This church is so true. I wish I could go back and tell everyone I have ever met. If you want the truth, we have it. I know we do. Talk to the missionaries if you want to learn more! They will help you like I will help the people in Mexico.
I love you all so much. Thanks for the letters and prayers and just everything. I miss you but I would never leave here. Hope you have a good week!
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
I cannot believe how fast time is going, but I am still learning a lot!
Mom, thanks for the Dear Elder! It was so fun hearing from you on the same day as my email home. The pictures were great, I love them. Everyone wants to see them. They make me feel like you are all with me! I still want a small one to keep in my pocket, with a picture of the San Diego Temple on the back. That would be so cool to show people. I have one of Christ getting baptized that I use in lessons, it is so effective and I think it will work great in the streets. I can get a scripture case here so do not worry about it! They are cool and pretty cheap. Also where is Elder Warren going? I will look out for him.
Trevor sent me a Dear Elder with all of his information about when he is coming in. I signed up yesterday to be a host so hopefully that works out. If I can get out there and I see him while he is driving in, I can just chase after the car and host him for sure. I will find out Sunday if he will be in our zone, and let you know on Tuesday. Trevor, look out for me! Bring two suits for the MTC if possible then send one home and only bring one to the mission. Make sure you have shower sandals. And you don't need a robe. Other than that, just bring what it says.
We got a new district yesterday. I love them and they are way on top of things. They are going to Argentina. I am going to take them on the MTC tour tonight. Their biggest star in the new district is the Grandson of Lyle on Napoleon Dynamite (the old man that shoots the cow). So rad.
P-day was really good. I saw my friend Ben from Writing 150 at the temple. His brother went through and is going to the Anaheim Mission. Frio frijoles. I love the temple and having that day to refresh for the rest of the week, even though it is way busy!
We had a devotional Tuesday which was great. Elder Gavarret of the 70 spoke. He had a heavy Hispanic accent. It was awesome! I knew exactly why he was pronouncing things and wording things like he was. It is fun to see cool things like that, and seeing that my Spanish is developing. Dad, did you say I was wording things like Spanish in your last Dear Elder? That is so funny if that is true. I can already feel my English skills deteriorating a little. It is going to be hard coming back and speaking English and taking college classes right when I get home!
The MTC is going to change how they teach in August. I don't think I am supposed to know but Hermano Law told us. He said he didn't know if he was supposed to tell us either. Haha! There are going to be 8 mini lessons to help investigators be converted. I think you also start teaching in your mission language on the second day, compared to 4 and one half weeks now. It is all about making the investigator have a relationship with God. We will get those lessons and info in the field.
I memorized Doctrine and Covenants 4 in Spanish! I am so happy and it was one of my weekly goals. I am still learning a lot and doing my best to speak as much Spanish as possible. It is coming along and getting faster. The Lord is helping me out a lot! It is so amazing to see the help he gives us. It is more apparent here.
I am so happy to be here. I am even more excited for Mexico. It is barely starting to get remotely real. I can imagine myself there a little. I know it won't be real until I am there and maybe not until I have been there for a while. Things are so good right now. I have spiritual experiences every day. I learn more Spanish every day. My testimony gets stronger every day. I am so excited to find the people I am supposed to find and teach. I am so excited to serve the Mexican people.
This church is so true. I wish I could go back and tell everyone I have ever met. If you want the truth, we have it. I know we do. Talk to the missionaries if you want to learn more! They will help you like I will help the people in Mexico.
I love you all so much. Thanks for the letters and prayers and just everything. I miss you but I would never leave here. Hope you have a good week!
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Porque No Me Averguenzo...
Mi Familia,
Week 5 is over. I cannot believe it! Time is going by faster and faster. My departure date is in 3 weeks and 6 days. Eso es un poco loco.
Sounds like life is a little crazy back home. I hope Mom is doing better still. I have been praying for those in need that you have told me about. The Lord is blessing our family immensely. Mom, that is so exciting you get to go on the cruise! How far in Mexico does it go? And when? That would be awesome if we got close. By the way Dear Elders are great, I love being updated so fast so keep them coming. The amount you send out now is perfect. Thanks for the packages too. I can’t wait to give out the stuff.
Hermano Wells was in my Career Exploration class at BYU and we sat next to each other. It is funny, I remembered he got a job here (he teaches Korean) so I was thinking, I need to find him! I saw an Elder with an Asian language nametag so I asked him what language. It was Korean. Who are your teachers? Brother Wells and... No way! I know him!! Got the room number and stopped by the next day. Oh yeah he is just a floor down in my building. It was so funny and fun.
The Steelers lost in the Super Bowl! I sure am getting blessed. Oh, and I heard the Packers won too.
I sewed on my first button this week. It is holding up great and was really easy. It is on my suit pants; it got pulled hard one time and was loose. I haven't gained that much weight, but a little. I am not ashamed. I am grateful for those times we would practice for stuff like that for FHE and just at home. I felt so prepared coming here. I know it is all thanks to you guys! And mostly Mom.
Elder Shaw is still here. I love him and am glad! (He was supposed to go to the Peru MTC but had Visa issues). There was an Hermana in our zone that was having some struggles. Elder Shaw and I fasted for her last Thursday. It was so hard. But that day she was able to work things out and was so happy. Before she was so stressed and scared. I don't think she knows we did but I am glad she got it worked out!
My best friend here is probably Elder Kody Klaassen. He is from Logan, Utah and is going to the San Bernardino Mission. He is in the district just below us. We have so much fun and we are definitely going to be friends after the mission. He knows the Bolsters primos that live up there and said he was pretty good friends with Lindsey. Go figure! But we have a lot of fun during meals and in the residence. I also have seen Jake. On Sunday before the fireside I got to talk to him. It was so fun to catch up. He is so ready to get out and serve. I have never seen him so happy.
I love our teacher Hermano Law. One day I had the strongest impression that I needed to tell him that he was there for me (He had back problems and had to go home from his mission early - he would still have 3 or 4 more months). I thought I would write him a note and give it to him before I left. That day we taught him a message of our choice in English. Afterward, he said he was touched and that he needed every one of them. Then he told us it was his birthday and said how all of his friends were on missions. He was crying and said how happy he was to teach us. I felt terrible for not following the Spirit. I gave him a hug after class and told him. I need to be better about that.
Los Abuelos left Saturday. So did Elder Palmer. They are out in the field! I hope visas can catch up and get better, but I will do whatever the Lord wants.
When do you get my letters? I try to send them at this mailbox that goes out at 4 on Tuesdays. I never see anyone else put mail in there so that is why I am wondering. Maybe I am the only one that knows about it.
Oh my - out of time. This church is true and I miss you all! I hope all is well. Lately I have been amazed with prayer. It works. It is how we do so many things like covenants and repentance. Bye!
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Week 5 is over. I cannot believe it! Time is going by faster and faster. My departure date is in 3 weeks and 6 days. Eso es un poco loco.
Sounds like life is a little crazy back home. I hope Mom is doing better still. I have been praying for those in need that you have told me about. The Lord is blessing our family immensely. Mom, that is so exciting you get to go on the cruise! How far in Mexico does it go? And when? That would be awesome if we got close. By the way Dear Elders are great, I love being updated so fast so keep them coming. The amount you send out now is perfect. Thanks for the packages too. I can’t wait to give out the stuff.
Hermano Wells was in my Career Exploration class at BYU and we sat next to each other. It is funny, I remembered he got a job here (he teaches Korean) so I was thinking, I need to find him! I saw an Elder with an Asian language nametag so I asked him what language. It was Korean. Who are your teachers? Brother Wells and... No way! I know him!! Got the room number and stopped by the next day. Oh yeah he is just a floor down in my building. It was so funny and fun.
The Steelers lost in the Super Bowl! I sure am getting blessed. Oh, and I heard the Packers won too.
I sewed on my first button this week. It is holding up great and was really easy. It is on my suit pants; it got pulled hard one time and was loose. I haven't gained that much weight, but a little. I am not ashamed. I am grateful for those times we would practice for stuff like that for FHE and just at home. I felt so prepared coming here. I know it is all thanks to you guys! And mostly Mom.
Elder Shaw is still here. I love him and am glad! (He was supposed to go to the Peru MTC but had Visa issues). There was an Hermana in our zone that was having some struggles. Elder Shaw and I fasted for her last Thursday. It was so hard. But that day she was able to work things out and was so happy. Before she was so stressed and scared. I don't think she knows we did but I am glad she got it worked out!
My best friend here is probably Elder Kody Klaassen. He is from Logan, Utah and is going to the San Bernardino Mission. He is in the district just below us. We have so much fun and we are definitely going to be friends after the mission. He knows the Bolsters primos that live up there and said he was pretty good friends with Lindsey. Go figure! But we have a lot of fun during meals and in the residence. I also have seen Jake. On Sunday before the fireside I got to talk to him. It was so fun to catch up. He is so ready to get out and serve. I have never seen him so happy.
I love our teacher Hermano Law. One day I had the strongest impression that I needed to tell him that he was there for me (He had back problems and had to go home from his mission early - he would still have 3 or 4 more months). I thought I would write him a note and give it to him before I left. That day we taught him a message of our choice in English. Afterward, he said he was touched and that he needed every one of them. Then he told us it was his birthday and said how all of his friends were on missions. He was crying and said how happy he was to teach us. I felt terrible for not following the Spirit. I gave him a hug after class and told him. I need to be better about that.
Los Abuelos left Saturday. So did Elder Palmer. They are out in the field! I hope visas can catch up and get better, but I will do whatever the Lord wants.
When do you get my letters? I try to send them at this mailbox that goes out at 4 on Tuesdays. I never see anyone else put mail in there so that is why I am wondering. Maybe I am the only one that knows about it.
Oh my - out of time. This church is true and I miss you all! I hope all is well. Lately I have been amazed with prayer. It works. It is how we do so many things like covenants and repentance. Bye!
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Photos!
Lauren and Elder Stevenson on the way to the MTC. Thanks for picking him up at the airport and dropping him off, Lauren!
There's something about that name tag!
Elder Stevenson at the Provo Temple. Temple trips are the only time they leave the MTC.
The classic "here's my mission" pose. Tradition at the MTC.
Elder Stevenson's MTC district - all west coast!
Is that Blue Steel?
Apparently a lot of young women used to write messages to their missionary boys in chalk on the path to the temple. I don't know if the sign is really a deterrent.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
El Pez que Hace Nada
Mi Familia,
Thanks for the Dear Elder! I love hearing about what is going on at home. I am super excited for my scripture case too! That will be so nice to have. I will let you know when I get it. Thanks for doing that, it means a lot! I love hearing about how you are studying PMG (Preach My Gospel) and the Scriptures as well. I have also been studying my topic for my personal study. I ask myself a question that an investigator might have then find/write scriptures and ideas that I have in a journal. It is such an effective way to study and I am learning so much. I just heard about Lauren's car accident yesterday. It sounds like things are better for her though.
The MTC is going great. I love it here! I am learning a ton. I am trying to only use Spanish. We made it a district goal to use as much as possible. If you can't you have to say, "perdon" before you speak English. I think it is the equivalent to pardon. Makes sense. Also if someone in the district talks to you in English you say "no entiendo ingles." I don't understand English. It is really helpful to speak it as much as possible. I feel pretty confident with my Spanish and am getting faster at conjugating and speaking at a decent speed. I know I am going to think otherwise once I get to Tuxtla. I am also working on memorizing Doctrine and Covenants 4 in Spanish right now. Great stuff.
Los abuelos are going to the consulate today which is great news for us. I am going to miss them but that means things are speeding up. If things catch up and I leave on my scheduled departure date then this Saturday I will be halfway done with the MTC. It is so exciting and I can't wait to get to the field.
Yo tengo un otro chiste por Papa. Me encanta eso. Es como pescados, siempre! Que hace un pez flojo? Sabe? ... Nada! (Nada o de Nadar) Es muy chistoso, yo se.
Spanish jokes are so much funnier. Another of my favorites is before you pray you ask who wants to. If no one volunteers you pretend like you are playing with a yo-yo and ask someone, what is this toy called? They of course say "yo-yo." Yo means I in Spanish. They just volunteered themselves to pray.
On Tuesday we went to the Temple. I was super excited. Once we got there Elder Peck realized he forgot his recommend. I was kind of upset because it was really cold outside but I just tried to be nice about it. He kept saying sorry and I just kept saying, esta bien. We got back into the same session we would have been in and I felt great after. It would have been easy to get mad but I am glad I didn't. Elder Peck is an awesome guy.
I am so excited for Trevor to come here! I am going to try to be a host the day he comes and be his host! If you can find out what car he is coming in and what time that would be awesome, so I can get him. He could be in our zone or have the same meal/gym time. Everyone in my gym period is Spanish speaking. We will see what happens.
I have been thinking a lot about the ward and the baptism goal. President Hinckley gave that talk in April 1999 about doubling baptisms and we haven't even really exceeded 300,000 baptisms in a year since then. The members need to get involved. It is essential. They need to give referrals and help out as much as possible by friendshipping, going to lessons, etc. People are so much more likely to be baptized and stay active when members go to the lessons. Also don't be afraid to invite friends to church! I wish I would have been better about that. I thought I might lose friends doing it. But it brings so much happiness and answers to people's lives. You will lose those friends for sure if you never invite them.
I am doing wonderful. Thanks so much for the love and prayers. I can feel them. I am so happy here. I am so excited to learn and work. It is such an important work! I miss you and love you.
Yo se que este es la iglesia verdadera. Jesucristo vive hoy. Mediante la expiacion nosotros podemos regresar con el.
Te amo.
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Thanks for the Dear Elder! I love hearing about what is going on at home. I am super excited for my scripture case too! That will be so nice to have. I will let you know when I get it. Thanks for doing that, it means a lot! I love hearing about how you are studying PMG (Preach My Gospel) and the Scriptures as well. I have also been studying my topic for my personal study. I ask myself a question that an investigator might have then find/write scriptures and ideas that I have in a journal. It is such an effective way to study and I am learning so much. I just heard about Lauren's car accident yesterday. It sounds like things are better for her though.
The MTC is going great. I love it here! I am learning a ton. I am trying to only use Spanish. We made it a district goal to use as much as possible. If you can't you have to say, "perdon" before you speak English. I think it is the equivalent to pardon. Makes sense. Also if someone in the district talks to you in English you say "no entiendo ingles." I don't understand English. It is really helpful to speak it as much as possible. I feel pretty confident with my Spanish and am getting faster at conjugating and speaking at a decent speed. I know I am going to think otherwise once I get to Tuxtla. I am also working on memorizing Doctrine and Covenants 4 in Spanish right now. Great stuff.
Los abuelos are going to the consulate today which is great news for us. I am going to miss them but that means things are speeding up. If things catch up and I leave on my scheduled departure date then this Saturday I will be halfway done with the MTC. It is so exciting and I can't wait to get to the field.
Yo tengo un otro chiste por Papa. Me encanta eso. Es como pescados, siempre! Que hace un pez flojo? Sabe? ... Nada! (Nada o de Nadar) Es muy chistoso, yo se.
Spanish jokes are so much funnier. Another of my favorites is before you pray you ask who wants to. If no one volunteers you pretend like you are playing with a yo-yo and ask someone, what is this toy called? They of course say "yo-yo." Yo means I in Spanish. They just volunteered themselves to pray.
On Tuesday we went to the Temple. I was super excited. Once we got there Elder Peck realized he forgot his recommend. I was kind of upset because it was really cold outside but I just tried to be nice about it. He kept saying sorry and I just kept saying, esta bien. We got back into the same session we would have been in and I felt great after. It would have been easy to get mad but I am glad I didn't. Elder Peck is an awesome guy.
I am so excited for Trevor to come here! I am going to try to be a host the day he comes and be his host! If you can find out what car he is coming in and what time that would be awesome, so I can get him. He could be in our zone or have the same meal/gym time. Everyone in my gym period is Spanish speaking. We will see what happens.
I have been thinking a lot about the ward and the baptism goal. President Hinckley gave that talk in April 1999 about doubling baptisms and we haven't even really exceeded 300,000 baptisms in a year since then. The members need to get involved. It is essential. They need to give referrals and help out as much as possible by friendshipping, going to lessons, etc. People are so much more likely to be baptized and stay active when members go to the lessons. Also don't be afraid to invite friends to church! I wish I would have been better about that. I thought I might lose friends doing it. But it brings so much happiness and answers to people's lives. You will lose those friends for sure if you never invite them.
I am doing wonderful. Thanks so much for the love and prayers. I can feel them. I am so happy here. I am so excited to learn and work. It is such an important work! I miss you and love you.
Yo se que este es la iglesia verdadera. Jesucristo vive hoy. Mediante la expiacion nosotros podemos regresar con el.
Te amo.
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Andando con los Abuelos
Mi Familia,
I cannot believe how fast time is going by, it is unreal. My scheduled departure date is 5 weeks from yesterday
Thanks for all of your letters! Dad, sounds like things are very busy but good. And a baptism in the ward! That is so exciting. I met a couple sisters going to Carlsbad but they are Spanish speaking. They started talking to me before the Sunday Fireside and they were just so happy to hear about what it is like. 20 baptisms this year would be great! And possible. We were promised at a meeting that we could double baptisms doing three things: studying every day, asking everyone for referrals, and talking to 10 extra people every day outside of planned activities. I know that is for missionaries but it can be applied to the ward. I love the "Sin cuenta" joke and used it for some of the older Elders in the zone, everyone was laughing.
I saw Jake DeBruyn this week! I didn't know he already reported and when I saw him I was so caught off guard that I just yelled "Jake!" It scared his companion, who seems to be quite a character. We hugged and he said he is so happy. He looked happy and like he was working hard. It is so fun to see people from home. I sat next to Jake almost every day in seminary all 4 years. It sounds like BYU basketball is doing awesome and getting respect, which is awesome, and is spreading the gospel! Mom, I am praying for those in need. Thanks for the updates. It was great to hear about Brooke's Gap story and your missionary work. I am so proud of you!
I am hardly ever taught in English. Usually if we are, our teachers say it in Spanish first. I love the fajitas at the MTC, they are amazing. And I have no culture classes, it is a bummer. I don't want any more packages with food! Maybe a scripture case for my Spanish scriptures? That would be nice. I am sending my sim card today hopefully.
Things are going well with the new district. They are settling in. The new district leader showed a lot of concern in his interview but Elder Peck and I were able to help him and he is doing better.
I love the zone so much. I am getting close with all of the missionaries. Our old zone leaders left Sunday night. It was hard to watch (I took them to the travel office and van to get picked up). The whole zone has changed since we have been here. We should be the oldest but we have a "District X." They are going to Dad's mission and they start week 12 tomorrow and are not getting reassigned. I call them Los Abuelos.
We have been working on addictions in class lately. I feel pretty good about getting people to stop addictions. The day after we learned about it our teacher Hermano Law told us we were addicted to English. We made plans to stop. It is helping so much. We have gone over all we are going to cover in Spanish, and are going to start repeating lessons now. It is very exciting and Spanish is coming along so well. I know it is not me. Older districts compliment our district's Spanish a lot. They always think we have been here longer than we have. We are working so hard. It also has to do with our great teachers.
We taught as a zone on Saturday. I was assigned to the new district's classroom. I was so excited to teach someone who didn't know Spanish. Then Elder Palmer came in (The one I met in the Wilk.) We are super close but he has been here 2 extra weeks and his Spanish is great. He was our role play investigator. We weren't teaching in Spanish but I wanted to. It went so well. We taught about the Plan of Happiness and the Word of Wisdom. I committed him to follow the Word of Wisdom and everything was going great. I could feel the Spirit so strong and knew I had to commit him to baptism. He said he would! It was the best feeling ever. He told us we did great afterward.
Sunday I have no time to study with being a Zone Leader. But I had some extra time before dinner, about 10 minutes. I decided to pray and just study something. I didn't know what, and just flipped my book to Command verbs. I was so confused about it before and in 5 minutes I understood it so much more. I knew I was blessed for doing my best as the Zone Leader, Which is going great. We give a spiritual thought in Priesthood, and I was a little nervous as my old zone leaders were there. Then President Brown, the MTC President walked in. I was so nervous. But it went great. I was quite relieved.
I love it here at the MTC. I am learning so much. EVERYTHING is going amazing right now. I am so grateful for this opportunity to serve. I think about and pray for you by name every day. Thanks for all of your support. It means so much. I miss you all! I have the best family in the world. Thanks for all of your examples and prayers. This church is so true.
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
I cannot believe how fast time is going by, it is unreal. My scheduled departure date is 5 weeks from yesterday
Thanks for all of your letters! Dad, sounds like things are very busy but good. And a baptism in the ward! That is so exciting. I met a couple sisters going to Carlsbad but they are Spanish speaking. They started talking to me before the Sunday Fireside and they were just so happy to hear about what it is like. 20 baptisms this year would be great! And possible. We were promised at a meeting that we could double baptisms doing three things: studying every day, asking everyone for referrals, and talking to 10 extra people every day outside of planned activities. I know that is for missionaries but it can be applied to the ward. I love the "Sin cuenta" joke and used it for some of the older Elders in the zone, everyone was laughing.
I saw Jake DeBruyn this week! I didn't know he already reported and when I saw him I was so caught off guard that I just yelled "Jake!" It scared his companion, who seems to be quite a character. We hugged and he said he is so happy. He looked happy and like he was working hard. It is so fun to see people from home. I sat next to Jake almost every day in seminary all 4 years. It sounds like BYU basketball is doing awesome and getting respect, which is awesome, and is spreading the gospel! Mom, I am praying for those in need. Thanks for the updates. It was great to hear about Brooke's Gap story and your missionary work. I am so proud of you!
I am hardly ever taught in English. Usually if we are, our teachers say it in Spanish first. I love the fajitas at the MTC, they are amazing. And I have no culture classes, it is a bummer. I don't want any more packages with food! Maybe a scripture case for my Spanish scriptures? That would be nice. I am sending my sim card today hopefully.
Things are going well with the new district. They are settling in. The new district leader showed a lot of concern in his interview but Elder Peck and I were able to help him and he is doing better.
I love the zone so much. I am getting close with all of the missionaries. Our old zone leaders left Sunday night. It was hard to watch (I took them to the travel office and van to get picked up). The whole zone has changed since we have been here. We should be the oldest but we have a "District X." They are going to Dad's mission and they start week 12 tomorrow and are not getting reassigned. I call them Los Abuelos.
We have been working on addictions in class lately. I feel pretty good about getting people to stop addictions. The day after we learned about it our teacher Hermano Law told us we were addicted to English. We made plans to stop. It is helping so much. We have gone over all we are going to cover in Spanish, and are going to start repeating lessons now. It is very exciting and Spanish is coming along so well. I know it is not me. Older districts compliment our district's Spanish a lot. They always think we have been here longer than we have. We are working so hard. It also has to do with our great teachers.
We taught as a zone on Saturday. I was assigned to the new district's classroom. I was so excited to teach someone who didn't know Spanish. Then Elder Palmer came in (The one I met in the Wilk.) We are super close but he has been here 2 extra weeks and his Spanish is great. He was our role play investigator. We weren't teaching in Spanish but I wanted to. It went so well. We taught about the Plan of Happiness and the Word of Wisdom. I committed him to follow the Word of Wisdom and everything was going great. I could feel the Spirit so strong and knew I had to commit him to baptism. He said he would! It was the best feeling ever. He told us we did great afterward.
Sunday I have no time to study with being a Zone Leader. But I had some extra time before dinner, about 10 minutes. I decided to pray and just study something. I didn't know what, and just flipped my book to Command verbs. I was so confused about it before and in 5 minutes I understood it so much more. I knew I was blessed for doing my best as the Zone Leader, Which is going great. We give a spiritual thought in Priesthood, and I was a little nervous as my old zone leaders were there. Then President Brown, the MTC President walked in. I was so nervous. But it went great. I was quite relieved.
I love it here at the MTC. I am learning so much. EVERYTHING is going amazing right now. I am so grateful for this opportunity to serve. I think about and pray for you by name every day. Thanks for all of your support. It means so much. I miss you all! I have the best family in the world. Thanks for all of your examples and prayers. This church is so true.
Con Amor,
Elder Riley Stevenson
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