Hello!
Well, I'm home now!
Yes, back in the good ol' Montreal.
Does it feel weird?
Well, let me put it this way:
Really, being on a mission was "weird", so coming home was instantly transitioning to "not weird" - so THAT was weird. Otherwise, it feels pretty normal. I'm getting adjusted pretty quickly.
On Wednesday, we (all ~12-14 of us) went to the Lubbock "international" airport, said goodbye, and flew to Dallas. We arrived around 11:30am (central time). From there, Elders Beesley and Allred, who were going to Alabama, and I parted ways from the Utah-Idaho group. Their layover was only a few minutes. Ours was about four hours, so we went and grabbed a pizza for lunch. At around 2:15pm, I said goodbye to the others, and headed for my gate. That was the mental shift for me - not having a companion - which really made the transition pretty quick.
There was a slight delay due to rain, but I arrived in Montreal sometime around 9:00pm (eastern time), after a close to three-and-a-half-hour flight. I went through two customs lines (the second being for "returning citizens"), which felt just as long as the flight (it did turn out to be close to two hours). Finally, after getting all the paperwork done (no thanks to a friendly but slow and talkative border patrol officer), I was reunited with my family, as well as a small greeting party. Seriously. They made a poster with balloons, and recorded the whole thing on video. It was a wonderful experience.
Now, I have a better idea when people talk about "forever families". I have a better appreciation for the Priesthood; for the power that God has given us to be with our family for all eternity, even if we are apart momentarily during mortality.
So now I'm home. Despite what I said about re-adjusting quickly, I still find that I'm a little rusty on some things, and a little disorganized. I haven't driven a car in over a year (I did just get my license renewed, though). I haven't programmed a computer in over two (not counting some little projects in the mission office). I haven't hugged a girl in over five (okay, not seriously, but it feels that way sometimes).
Also, my scripture study feels kinda disjointed. I don't have anyone to study *for* (other than myself), and so I'm going to have to find some good topics to look into.
I plan on keeping away from TV. I quit a little while before my mission, and I don't plan on going back.
I am signed up for school in the fall - studying computer science. I've already started work on my own personal projects, which are keeping me busy, and helping me re-tune my skills.
I should be getting a job really soon. Well... looking for one, anyway.
I hope to start weekly Chinese lessons with my grandmother. I'll learn it, and be fluent in it one day.
Although there are still a lot of unknowns, the future is looking up.
The Lord is merciful to all His children. I am thankful for the opportunities He gives to me to serve, and thereby, grow. They say, "whom the Lord calls, the Lord qualifies". I need that, and He knows it. In fact, I've already had another calling extended to me. I must *really* need it.
I know the Church is true. A mission didn't tell me that. A childhood in the Church didn't tell me that. It was told to me by the Holy Ghost. He was sent forth to reveal to me many great and important things pertaining to my salvation; the truthfulness of the Restored Gospel being one of the most important.
I love you all. Thank you for your support and prayers. The Lord does answer them.
-Brandon Wong
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010 - Final Week
Howdy, y'all!
This is my final week in the mission field.
As usual with almost any big event, it hasn't quite hit me yet. That's probably the biggest reason why it hasn't bugged me at all. It's also probably because I'm working harder than ever before on my mission. Each day feels pretty much like I've always been a missionary and always will be.
It is getting hot here; summer is pouncing quick.
I have a lot going through my mind, but when do I not?
I know that Heavenly Father loves us. That is why He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to atone for our sins and to teach us, that we may be perfected in Him. I know that Christ sent us a prophet, that we may know of Him, and that we may not walk in darkness. I know that what we are taught in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not the interpretations or theories or interpolations or opinions or philosophies of men, but the words of Christ. I know that the Church is true. I know that this work is true, and that it is the work of God. He has entrusted it into our hands, and we will be stronger because of it.
I love you.
Take care,
-Elder Brandon Wong
This is my final week in the mission field.
As usual with almost any big event, it hasn't quite hit me yet. That's probably the biggest reason why it hasn't bugged me at all. It's also probably because I'm working harder than ever before on my mission. Each day feels pretty much like I've always been a missionary and always will be.
It is getting hot here; summer is pouncing quick.
I have a lot going through my mind, but when do I not?
I know that Heavenly Father loves us. That is why He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to atone for our sins and to teach us, that we may be perfected in Him. I know that Christ sent us a prophet, that we may know of Him, and that we may not walk in darkness. I know that what we are taught in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is not the interpretations or theories or interpolations or opinions or philosophies of men, but the words of Christ. I know that the Church is true. I know that this work is true, and that it is the work of God. He has entrusted it into our hands, and we will be stronger because of it.
I love you.
Take care,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Friday, March 26, 2010
Friday, March 26, 2010 - Long week
Hello!
It's been a long week!
Going a solid ten days without a preparation day was a little tougher than I thought! Still, we managed to get through it without starving, or needing to do laundry early. The weather has been going up and down, too - a lot. We got hot weather (we took off our suit jackets), then we got snow! What an interesting place.
We also got mentioned in the newspaper. Mr. Beilue was very quick (not very surprisingly, I suppose). After he stopped us on the street and got our information, he called and interviewed us on Wednesday evening, sent a photographer (funny, his name is Michael Schumacher) on Thursday morning, and published on Friday. Elder Engstrom and I were on the front page of the "Today" section of the Amarillo Globe-News. We were pretty pleased with it. (We also learned that he later did a completely separate column on someone that we happened to be teaching) he did add some of his own interpolations - in fact a lot of what was written that wasn't a direct quote was slightly off - but overall it was very good. Also, if it was completely false, I believe in the adage that, for the Church, "any publicity is good publicity". To our surprise, many people have read it, and commented to us about it. It's cool to be famous, I guess.
Speaking of articles, I've been asked by Elder Hansen (who does the TLM newsletter) to write my departing article (a new tradition for all departing missionaries that he started). It's kinda tough "summarizing" my entire mission in two or three paragraphs. I guess maybe it wasn't meant to be. Anyways, I did my best.
Our special zone activity for Monday's P-day was fun, albeit really miserable. We went out to the Cadillac Ranch to take pictures. It was fun, but it was raining, and very cold, and very muddy. My shoes more than doubled in weight with the mud that was stuck to them! I'm glad we did it though, for memories' sake.
Our zone Family Home Evening afterwards was great. It was at President Barton's home, and we played some games (namely, "District Feud") and had a testimony meeting.This P-day was also good. We got to go bowling and we just had a good time.
In other news, the other Elders came over to sleep the night at our apartment. They said that the Spirit warned them (all of them separately and independently) to leave that night, and so they did. We are still unsure as to why, but we're all thankful that the Lord does talk to us, and warns us of danger, if we are willing to heed to His voice.
Also, would you be able to schedule a temple trip after I get home ASAP?
Love you!
-Elder Brandon Wong
It's been a long week!
Going a solid ten days without a preparation day was a little tougher than I thought! Still, we managed to get through it without starving, or needing to do laundry early. The weather has been going up and down, too - a lot. We got hot weather (we took off our suit jackets), then we got snow! What an interesting place.
We also got mentioned in the newspaper. Mr. Beilue was very quick (not very surprisingly, I suppose). After he stopped us on the street and got our information, he called and interviewed us on Wednesday evening, sent a photographer (funny, his name is Michael Schumacher) on Thursday morning, and published on Friday. Elder Engstrom and I were on the front page of the "Today" section of the Amarillo Globe-News. We were pretty pleased with it. (We also learned that he later did a completely separate column on someone that we happened to be teaching) he did add some of his own interpolations - in fact a lot of what was written that wasn't a direct quote was slightly off - but overall it was very good. Also, if it was completely false, I believe in the adage that, for the Church, "any publicity is good publicity". To our surprise, many people have read it, and commented to us about it. It's cool to be famous, I guess.
Speaking of articles, I've been asked by Elder Hansen (who does the TLM newsletter) to write my departing article (a new tradition for all departing missionaries that he started). It's kinda tough "summarizing" my entire mission in two or three paragraphs. I guess maybe it wasn't meant to be. Anyways, I did my best.
Our special zone activity for Monday's P-day was fun, albeit really miserable. We went out to the Cadillac Ranch to take pictures. It was fun, but it was raining, and very cold, and very muddy. My shoes more than doubled in weight with the mud that was stuck to them! I'm glad we did it though, for memories' sake.
Our zone Family Home Evening afterwards was great. It was at President Barton's home, and we played some games (namely, "District Feud") and had a testimony meeting.This P-day was also good. We got to go bowling and we just had a good time.
In other news, the other Elders came over to sleep the night at our apartment. They said that the Spirit warned them (all of them separately and independently) to leave that night, and so they did. We are still unsure as to why, but we're all thankful that the Lord does talk to us, and warns us of danger, if we are willing to heed to His voice.
Also, would you be able to schedule a temple trip after I get home ASAP?
Love you!
-Elder Brandon Wong
Monday, March 22, 2010
Friday, March 19, 2010 - Men on a Mission
Elder Wong and his companion, Elder Engstrom, were stopped on the street and were interviewed by a newspaper reporter, Jon Mark Beilue, recently. Their interview was published on Friday in the Amarillo's local daily newspaper. Here is an excerpt of that article.
Web-posted Friday, March 19, 2010
Men on a mission
by Jon Mark Beilue
Mormons put mettle to pedal in Amarillo
Alex Engstrom, 20, has been doing this for nearly a year now. He admits that, at times, while riding his bike through an assigned neighborhood or doing without electronic necessities, that he misses a bit what he left behind.
"Sometimes it's hard not to feel part of the world," Engstrom said. "You hear about a good movie coming out in the theater and you think, 'Oh, man, I have to wait until I get home to see it.' But the more I understand what I'm doing, the less hard it gets. The more I keep myself busy, the less of a priority other things are."
He goes by Elder Engstrom, this native of Seattle. His current roommate is Elder Wong, 21. Brandon Wong actually. You don't know them, but yet you do. You know them by their unmistakable sight. Wearing a coat and tie, bike helmet and riding a 10-speed. There's no mistaking Mormon missionaries.
There are 12 of them in Amarillo, part of the Texas-Lubbock mission of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Every man of the faith must complete a two-year mission that's worldwide. Engstrom, in Amarillo less than three weeks, is halfway through his. Wong, in the city since mid-January, has just a month to go. One month before he heads to Montreal to enroll in McGill University.
"Study computer science, hopefully get a career and family started, and basically begin a normal life," he said.
They're met by curious glances on the street, and often, closed doors greet them well after they knock. I don't agree with their Mormon faith - many call the religion a cult - but it's difficult not to admire their dedication, discipline and courage even if questioning the lengths it sometimes goes.
How many could do what they do?
There's only a semiday off a week, a "preparation day" where they shop, do laundry, buy groceries or go to the library and e-mail their family. There's no TV, computer or even radio in their apartment. No need for them. They're permitted only two calls a year to family - Mother's Day and Christmas.
The two-year mission is from their own money that's doled out through the church. That's why most work for a couple of years to save up. And why many learn to live on ramen noodles while occasionally splurging on McDonald's.
Six days a week, it's wake up at 6:30 a.m., exercise, shower, clean up the apartment and eat breakfast. At 8 a.m., they study Scripture and plan for any lessons they might teach that day. At 9 a.m., they have companionship study, where they share what they've learned.
At 10 a.m., they get on their bikes for their assigned part of the city to proselytize. That may mean meeting with those for set appointments, but often, it's just knocking door to door. And that's when it can get interesting.
Have you had doors slammed in your face? "Oh, yeah, plenty of that," Wong said.
Anyone care to debate faith on the porch? There are times, but through the months they've discovered it's unproductive for both parties to do that.
Do doorbells go unanswered when they know there's a full house inside? "Some people are just as shy as we are," Wong said. "They can't find the courage to say, 'Thanks, but no thanks,' but that's part of life."
"It depends on where you're at," said Engstrom, "but in some places people will yell things from cars, holler out jokes every once in a while. I guess it can be kinda weird to see guys in suits on bikes. But overall, we both agree we've been treated well here."
Like it or not, agree with it or not, these are a big reason why the LDS church is among the fastest-growing in the world. Still, they said they're not trying to convert, just share, and for those who say they're not interested, Wong and Engstrom's feet are soon on the pedals.
Engstrom, before too long, will be on what he calls a transfer bus for an unknown destination in West Texas or Eastern New Mexico. Wong, who's been to five towns in the mission, is near the end of his singularly focused two years.
"If I could sum it up in one word, it's been 'rewarding,' " he said.
Good for him.
Jon Mark Beilue's column appears Sunday, Wednesday and Friday. He can be reached at jon.beilue@amarillo.com or 806-345-3318. His blog appears on amarillo.com
Web-posted Friday, March 19, 2010
Men on a mission
by Jon Mark Beilue
Mormons put mettle to pedal in Amarillo
Alex Engstrom, 20, has been doing this for nearly a year now. He admits that, at times, while riding his bike through an assigned neighborhood or doing without electronic necessities, that he misses a bit what he left behind.
"Sometimes it's hard not to feel part of the world," Engstrom said. "You hear about a good movie coming out in the theater and you think, 'Oh, man, I have to wait until I get home to see it.' But the more I understand what I'm doing, the less hard it gets. The more I keep myself busy, the less of a priority other things are."
He goes by Elder Engstrom, this native of Seattle. His current roommate is Elder Wong, 21. Brandon Wong actually. You don't know them, but yet you do. You know them by their unmistakable sight. Wearing a coat and tie, bike helmet and riding a 10-speed. There's no mistaking Mormon missionaries.
There are 12 of them in Amarillo, part of the Texas-Lubbock mission of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Every man of the faith must complete a two-year mission that's worldwide. Engstrom, in Amarillo less than three weeks, is halfway through his. Wong, in the city since mid-January, has just a month to go. One month before he heads to Montreal to enroll in McGill University.
"Study computer science, hopefully get a career and family started, and basically begin a normal life," he said.
They're met by curious glances on the street, and often, closed doors greet them well after they knock. I don't agree with their Mormon faith - many call the religion a cult - but it's difficult not to admire their dedication, discipline and courage even if questioning the lengths it sometimes goes.
How many could do what they do?
There's only a semiday off a week, a "preparation day" where they shop, do laundry, buy groceries or go to the library and e-mail their family. There's no TV, computer or even radio in their apartment. No need for them. They're permitted only two calls a year to family - Mother's Day and Christmas.
The two-year mission is from their own money that's doled out through the church. That's why most work for a couple of years to save up. And why many learn to live on ramen noodles while occasionally splurging on McDonald's.
Six days a week, it's wake up at 6:30 a.m., exercise, shower, clean up the apartment and eat breakfast. At 8 a.m., they study Scripture and plan for any lessons they might teach that day. At 9 a.m., they have companionship study, where they share what they've learned.
At 10 a.m., they get on their bikes for their assigned part of the city to proselytize. That may mean meeting with those for set appointments, but often, it's just knocking door to door. And that's when it can get interesting.
Have you had doors slammed in your face? "Oh, yeah, plenty of that," Wong said.
Anyone care to debate faith on the porch? There are times, but through the months they've discovered it's unproductive for both parties to do that.
Do doorbells go unanswered when they know there's a full house inside? "Some people are just as shy as we are," Wong said. "They can't find the courage to say, 'Thanks, but no thanks,' but that's part of life."
"It depends on where you're at," said Engstrom, "but in some places people will yell things from cars, holler out jokes every once in a while. I guess it can be kinda weird to see guys in suits on bikes. But overall, we both agree we've been treated well here."
Like it or not, agree with it or not, these are a big reason why the LDS church is among the fastest-growing in the world. Still, they said they're not trying to convert, just share, and for those who say they're not interested, Wong and Engstrom's feet are soon on the pedals.
Engstrom, before too long, will be on what he calls a transfer bus for an unknown destination in West Texas or Eastern New Mexico. Wong, who's been to five towns in the mission, is near the end of his singularly focused two years.
"If I could sum it up in one word, it's been 'rewarding,' " he said.
Good for him.
Jon Mark Beilue's column appears Sunday, Wednesday and Friday. He can be reached at jon.beilue@amarillo.com or 806-345-3318. His blog appears on amarillo.com
Monday, March 15, 2010
Monday, March 15, 2010 - Three Day Week
Hey,
Long time no speak...
Not much has happened in the last four days.
I finally got to send some pictures home.
We helped a member of the ward put together his new cabinets.
All the missionaries in our ward (there's five of us (did I mention that Elder Decker came to the east side mid-transfer?)) sang "Lord, I Would Follow Thee" in sacrament meeting. I think we did a pretty good job. We got to practice twice; and two of us were sick, except for that morning.
Other than that, things have been going pretty well.
I hope everything's going great for y'all.
Have a good week!
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Long time no speak...
Not much has happened in the last four days.
I finally got to send some pictures home.
We helped a member of the ward put together his new cabinets.
All the missionaries in our ward (there's five of us (did I mention that Elder Decker came to the east side mid-transfer?)) sang "Lord, I Would Follow Thee" in sacrament meeting. I think we did a pretty good job. We got to practice twice; and two of us were sick, except for that morning.
Other than that, things have been going pretty well.
I hope everything's going great for y'all.
Have a good week!
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010 - CTR
Hi, y'all!
Another week has passed in the TLM.
First of all, just so you know, next week's P-day will be on Monday instead of Thursday. The zone leaders want to do a zone activity before interviews on Tuesday. Our new goal is 60 baptisms a month, and so our short-term goal is 45. They want to do something to better unify us so we can achieve it. So on Monday, we're all going to go to the Cadillac Ranch, followed by a FHE at a member's home. It sounds exciting. (It also means we'll have 10 days without a P-day.)
Also, my temple recommend was going to expire at the end of the month. I told President Robison, and so he pulled me aside and interviewed me right there. He took my old one and said he'll mail my new one to me. It occurred to me then that that was my very first one. It was also weird being without one for the first time since getting it. It felt very weird. In fact, I borrowed a "For the Strength of Youth" mini-pamphlet from one of the youth and stuck it in my wallet where the recommend would be. A couple days later, my new one came in the mail. Holding a current temple recommend means something more to me now.
One day, we passed a lady that was quickly walking along the street. When we tried to speak to her, she asked if we could calm her ex-husband down who was threatening to kill himself. We went to the address she gave us, and sure enough, there was a man sitting on his porch, with a garden hose tied into a noose that was slung over the porch. We tried talking to him. He was in a bad situation (just out of jail, no money, no documentation, no nothing). He was also too mad to talk to. We ended up leaving and calling the police. We're sure we did the right thing. I just hope things turn out alright for him.
In other news, we have been challenged by the zone leaders to read the Book of Mormon before General Conference (in three weeks). That's about 25 pages per day. I am not a fan of speed reading scriptures, but it has still been pretty interesting to do. I've learned quite a bit in the three days I've been doing it.
Speaking of news, we were out on our bikes the other day, and a gentleman stopped his truck to talk to us. He said he was a columnist for the local paper and wanted to do a little article on us in a couple weeks. That should be pretty cool to do.
Great things happen everyday. I'm learning everyday, and experiencing things only a mission could afford. I'm glad I can be a missionary.
I know the Church is true.
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Another week has passed in the TLM.
First of all, just so you know, next week's P-day will be on Monday instead of Thursday. The zone leaders want to do a zone activity before interviews on Tuesday. Our new goal is 60 baptisms a month, and so our short-term goal is 45. They want to do something to better unify us so we can achieve it. So on Monday, we're all going to go to the Cadillac Ranch, followed by a FHE at a member's home. It sounds exciting. (It also means we'll have 10 days without a P-day.)
Also, my temple recommend was going to expire at the end of the month. I told President Robison, and so he pulled me aside and interviewed me right there. He took my old one and said he'll mail my new one to me. It occurred to me then that that was my very first one. It was also weird being without one for the first time since getting it. It felt very weird. In fact, I borrowed a "For the Strength of Youth" mini-pamphlet from one of the youth and stuck it in my wallet where the recommend would be. A couple days later, my new one came in the mail. Holding a current temple recommend means something more to me now.
One day, we passed a lady that was quickly walking along the street. When we tried to speak to her, she asked if we could calm her ex-husband down who was threatening to kill himself. We went to the address she gave us, and sure enough, there was a man sitting on his porch, with a garden hose tied into a noose that was slung over the porch. We tried talking to him. He was in a bad situation (just out of jail, no money, no documentation, no nothing). He was also too mad to talk to. We ended up leaving and calling the police. We're sure we did the right thing. I just hope things turn out alright for him.
In other news, we have been challenged by the zone leaders to read the Book of Mormon before General Conference (in three weeks). That's about 25 pages per day. I am not a fan of speed reading scriptures, but it has still been pretty interesting to do. I've learned quite a bit in the three days I've been doing it.
Speaking of news, we were out on our bikes the other day, and a gentleman stopped his truck to talk to us. He said he was a columnist for the local paper and wanted to do a little article on us in a couple weeks. That should be pretty cool to do.
Great things happen everyday. I'm learning everyday, and experiencing things only a mission could afford. I'm glad I can be a missionary.
I know the Church is true.
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010 - Last Zone Conference
Hello!
How are things going?
It's been a pretty good week.
Today is Elder Engstrom's year mark. That means it's Elder Cherrington's also.
We just had zone conference on Tuesday. It was my last one, and it was on my 23rd-month mark. It was very good - probably the best yet. The zone leaders spoke about talking with everyone you pass, at least ten people per day. I was asked to bear my "final testimony", it being the last time in a zone conference before I go home.
This weekend, we also had our stake conference. (This transfer starts with stake conference and will end with General Conference. Isn't that cool? (That'll also be the fifth General Conference in my mission.)) The stake president is President Vest. He was just called six months ago, making this his first official stake conference as president. He is also very young (~35), energetic, and also very missionary-minded. He gave a powerful talk in the general session, where he declared the stake presidency's vision for the stake. He used the same scripture that President Jarvis used that says that where there is no vision, the people perish. As part of the vision, he included that the Amarillo Stake will be split within ten years.
Visiting the conference was Elder Gibbons of the Seventy. He testified of this and said it could be done in even less time. Elder Gibbons is a very good speaker. I enjoyed listening to his talks during the three sessions I attended.
President Robison told the missionaries that there are two other stakes who are also planning on splitting in the next few years. He wants it done before he goes home in 16 months! Sister Robison said that it seems that once we doubled baptisms, everyone else jumped on board, and saw what could be made of this region and what the people and members here are capable of accomplishing.
Anyways, I'm glad that I've been able to witness the changes that have gone on here and I'm excited to see what else we can do.
I have been getting all your emails (at least, I think it's all; I wouldn't know how to tell if I've missed any), and I'm still looking for a way to send pictures home. Keep on the lookout. It may be that I can only send a few at a time.
I am learning so much every day.
I love this work, and I know the Church is true.
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
How are things going?
It's been a pretty good week.
Today is Elder Engstrom's year mark. That means it's Elder Cherrington's also.
We just had zone conference on Tuesday. It was my last one, and it was on my 23rd-month mark. It was very good - probably the best yet. The zone leaders spoke about talking with everyone you pass, at least ten people per day. I was asked to bear my "final testimony", it being the last time in a zone conference before I go home.
This weekend, we also had our stake conference. (This transfer starts with stake conference and will end with General Conference. Isn't that cool? (That'll also be the fifth General Conference in my mission.)) The stake president is President Vest. He was just called six months ago, making this his first official stake conference as president. He is also very young (~35), energetic, and also very missionary-minded. He gave a powerful talk in the general session, where he declared the stake presidency's vision for the stake. He used the same scripture that President Jarvis used that says that where there is no vision, the people perish. As part of the vision, he included that the Amarillo Stake will be split within ten years.
Visiting the conference was Elder Gibbons of the Seventy. He testified of this and said it could be done in even less time. Elder Gibbons is a very good speaker. I enjoyed listening to his talks during the three sessions I attended.
President Robison told the missionaries that there are two other stakes who are also planning on splitting in the next few years. He wants it done before he goes home in 16 months! Sister Robison said that it seems that once we doubled baptisms, everyone else jumped on board, and saw what could be made of this region and what the people and members here are capable of accomplishing.
Anyways, I'm glad that I've been able to witness the changes that have gone on here and I'm excited to see what else we can do.
I have been getting all your emails (at least, I think it's all; I wouldn't know how to tell if I've missed any), and I'm still looking for a way to send pictures home. Keep on the lookout. It may be that I can only send a few at a time.
I am learning so much every day.
I love this work, and I know the Church is true.
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010 - Final transfer / final 6 weeks
Hello!
How's it going?
It's transfer week, and, unexpectedly, Elder Pearce got transferred. It means that he has had a new companion each transfer, and that I have to break in yet another companion. My new one is Elder Engstrom. He came out at the same time as Elder Cherrington, and so will be hitting his year mark this transfer. (Which reminds me, I'll be hitting my two-year-mark this transfer!) Elder Pearce is now off in Hobbs, NM, and Elder Engstrom arrived from Ruidoso, NM, making this the first Texas area of his mission.
Things have been going really well. The weather has been beautifully clear and warm. It did snow again the other week (all over the whole mission, in fact), but it's almost all gone now.
Elder Pearce and I had a great week, teaching almost 30 lessons. Our ward really likes us and we're getting some great support. If we plan right and plan ahead, then we will able to get a lot of work done.
I'm particularly excited about the ward's pre-missionaries. There are three of them and they're willing to go teach with us, and we're happy to ask. One of them is leaving close to the end of April. It's exciting to help prepare however we can.
There were a lot of changes this transfer. Many areas were whitewashed. Elder Christopherson also left (to train in Midland), and Elder Lowe came up from Abilene to serve with Elder Butterworth. It's good to see another familiar face. I am so relieved that everyone transferred here are people I already like.
A member of our ward came and fixed Elder Engstrom's bike when he arrived, and while he was at it, he adjusted / fixed mine.
There is a lot of exciting things going on in this part of the vineyard, and I'm so glad to be a part of it.
I know the Church is true.
Have a great week!
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
How's it going?
It's transfer week, and, unexpectedly, Elder Pearce got transferred. It means that he has had a new companion each transfer, and that I have to break in yet another companion. My new one is Elder Engstrom. He came out at the same time as Elder Cherrington, and so will be hitting his year mark this transfer. (Which reminds me, I'll be hitting my two-year-mark this transfer!) Elder Pearce is now off in Hobbs, NM, and Elder Engstrom arrived from Ruidoso, NM, making this the first Texas area of his mission.
Things have been going really well. The weather has been beautifully clear and warm. It did snow again the other week (all over the whole mission, in fact), but it's almost all gone now.
Elder Pearce and I had a great week, teaching almost 30 lessons. Our ward really likes us and we're getting some great support. If we plan right and plan ahead, then we will able to get a lot of work done.
I'm particularly excited about the ward's pre-missionaries. There are three of them and they're willing to go teach with us, and we're happy to ask. One of them is leaving close to the end of April. It's exciting to help prepare however we can.
There were a lot of changes this transfer. Many areas were whitewashed. Elder Christopherson also left (to train in Midland), and Elder Lowe came up from Abilene to serve with Elder Butterworth. It's good to see another familiar face. I am so relieved that everyone transferred here are people I already like.
A member of our ward came and fixed Elder Engstrom's bike when he arrived, and while he was at it, he adjusted / fixed mine.
There is a lot of exciting things going on in this part of the vineyard, and I'm so glad to be a part of it.
I know the Church is true.
Have a great week!
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Hey!
It's been another beautiful week here in the Texas Panhandle!
The weather's been clearing up, and it's been getting warmer.
The change in temperature has also brought its fair share of sickness, too. I got a little cold. Fortunately, it is *little*. It won't last near as long as the last one.
The work here has been really picking up. We're doing a lot better than when I arrived.
I'm learning new things everyday. What a wonderful blessing that is!
Some days are tough. Just the other day, it seemed everyone was mean at us. Usually that doesn't really mean much, but sometimes, it adds up. Still, though, some of the most exciting times in missionary work are when you're meeting new people.
I've (re-) learned that you have to look at things positively, and choose to be happy. That's a tough lesson for a cynic like me. I've also (re-) learned that you have to rely on the Spirit if you are to do anything of great worth, or accomplish something of value. If you do, you can do more than you could if you were the smartest or most able person on the planet. It also means that even if you are the lowliest of God's children, you can still do many great and important things here on earth.
The Church is true!
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
It's been another beautiful week here in the Texas Panhandle!
The weather's been clearing up, and it's been getting warmer.
The change in temperature has also brought its fair share of sickness, too. I got a little cold. Fortunately, it is *little*. It won't last near as long as the last one.
The work here has been really picking up. We're doing a lot better than when I arrived.
I'm learning new things everyday. What a wonderful blessing that is!
Some days are tough. Just the other day, it seemed everyone was mean at us. Usually that doesn't really mean much, but sometimes, it adds up. Still, though, some of the most exciting times in missionary work are when you're meeting new people.
I've (re-) learned that you have to look at things positively, and choose to be happy. That's a tough lesson for a cynic like me. I've also (re-) learned that you have to rely on the Spirit if you are to do anything of great worth, or accomplish something of value. If you do, you can do more than you could if you were the smartest or most able person on the planet. It also means that even if you are the lowliest of God's children, you can still do many great and important things here on earth.
The Church is true!
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Hey!
What's been going on?
Things are going well here. Our work is slowly speeding up and we're getting a lot more done than before. It helps that the weather is cooperating. It also helps that we're bit-by-bit planning more effectively. When you plan things ahead, things go so much more smoothly.
To answer your question from before, this is a geographically small area. It is most definitely one of the smallest in the whole mission, if not the smallest. I really love it. Because it's small, we don't have to worry about transportation, even if we're only on bikes. It's also almost all residential, so we'll never "run out" of work. Most of the local members live in our area. We also have a fair amount of commercial zones, so if ever we want to eat out, we don't have to go far.
One thing I noticed early on when I arrived is how stupid some missionaries (including me) are when biking at night. I was biking along one evening, and it occurred to me: I'm biking on a black bicycle, wearing an all-black coat, an all-black helmet, black shoes, black socks, black gloves, having no rear light, and it's night-time. How stupid! There's not that much I can do about it, and I have a front light (a flashlight taped to my handlebars), but the thought just popped in my mind.
Anyways, I don't have much to say today.
Still looking for a way to send my pictures. Be on the lookout for them.
The Church is true!
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Something I wish I knew before my mission: how to cheaply seal a crack in a shoe.
What's been going on?
Things are going well here. Our work is slowly speeding up and we're getting a lot more done than before. It helps that the weather is cooperating. It also helps that we're bit-by-bit planning more effectively. When you plan things ahead, things go so much more smoothly.
To answer your question from before, this is a geographically small area. It is most definitely one of the smallest in the whole mission, if not the smallest. I really love it. Because it's small, we don't have to worry about transportation, even if we're only on bikes. It's also almost all residential, so we'll never "run out" of work. Most of the local members live in our area. We also have a fair amount of commercial zones, so if ever we want to eat out, we don't have to go far.
One thing I noticed early on when I arrived is how stupid some missionaries (including me) are when biking at night. I was biking along one evening, and it occurred to me: I'm biking on a black bicycle, wearing an all-black coat, an all-black helmet, black shoes, black socks, black gloves, having no rear light, and it's night-time. How stupid! There's not that much I can do about it, and I have a front light (a flashlight taped to my handlebars), but the thought just popped in my mind.
Anyways, I don't have much to say today.
Still looking for a way to send my pictures. Be on the lookout for them.
The Church is true!
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Something I wish I knew before my mission: how to cheaply seal a crack in a shoe.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Thursday, February 4, 2010 - "And since we've no place to go..."
Hello!
Elder Wong here, writing from what I thought was Amarillo, Texas, but I'm not too entirely sure.
Last week, on Wednesday/Thursday, we got tons of sleet - itty-bitty pellets of ice. By Thursday morning, it became slush and snow. All the mission vehicles in Amarillo were parked, and we were stuck in the apartment. We did manage to pass the time by reading our stack of Ensigns and visiting the Ambassador Hotel across the street, and Oliver's Saddle Shop down the block. Friday we were stuck inside also, so we did a lot of planning. Saturday and Sunday we managed to arrange for people to give us rides to appointments and teach with us. (Regardless of weather, how often do missionaries in Montreal do that? Other than my mission prep, I don't remember anyone mentioning doing lessons alongside the missionaries...)
On Sunday, our ward's meetings were cancelled.
Just a few days before the snow, it was sunny and comparatively warm. We didn't need any jackets (or grocery bags lining our shoes). I also got in a bike wreck. My front wheel slipped to the side and I flipped right over the bike. I don't remember it, but I hit my knee somewhere in the process, which got a little cut, and it was sore for a while. Anyways, since the days we were stuck inside, we decided that we couldn't just sit around doing nothing. Elder Pearce had black boots and I had Wal-Mart bags over my socks (I found a crack in each of my new shoes!), so we decided to go walking. After a long afternoon of nothing, we came back with wet feet. Then we decided to go biking. So since that time, we've been riding our bikes in the snow. If it's not too wet and if it's not too slippery, we do fine, and we manage to get places. Sometimes, it's actually kinda fun. It's funny: we can ride our bikes in the snow better than most Texans can drive in the snow.
Then it started to rain. We tried biking out in that, but we got wet and consequently, very cold. Not only that, one man we tried to visit, whom we had been teaching for quite some time, asked us not to return. Needless to say, it was a miserable day.
But I did get the package you sent last Friday. Thanks for all the info and also that talk. Elder Cherrington had a friend that sent him the full version, given at BYU, and there are some things in there that aren't mentioned in the Ensign. You should check it out.
In other news, Elder Christopherson's companion, Elder Butterworth, finally arrived. Elder Christopherson is so relieved to have an official companion. Elder Butterworth is yet another one of those missionaries that came to the mission while I was in the office.
One thing I forgot to mention when I first got here is about the signs all over the city. I've spoken with many missionaries who would tell me about these signs with random messages on them placed all around town. Now that I'm serving here, I've been able to see quite a few, and find out what those missionaries were talking about. They've been put up by a man named Stanley Marsh. He's some rich dude who loves to spend money and is more eccentric than he is rich. He made the Cadillac Ranch, which is a bunch of cars half-buried front-first in the ground, and people are invited to come and spray paint them as they will. Anyways, he also put up signs (all of them diamond-shaped, like construction signs) in hundreds of locations around Amarillo, each with a quote, random saying, picture, or something.
A couple days ago, I got "the call". The call that I used to make while I was in the office. Sister Hansen called and asked which airport I wanted to fly to at the end of my mission. (You could tell she was tearing up a little over the phone.) I told her YUL. (I actually told her PET, which is what I thought they renamed it to. No one told me that the initials didn't change. I could've had a free flight to Brazil!)
Anyways, I hope all is well at home. I'm still looking for ways to send my pictures home.
Take care, and remember that the Church is true.
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Elder Wong here, writing from what I thought was Amarillo, Texas, but I'm not too entirely sure.
Last week, on Wednesday/Thursday, we got tons of sleet - itty-bitty pellets of ice. By Thursday morning, it became slush and snow. All the mission vehicles in Amarillo were parked, and we were stuck in the apartment. We did manage to pass the time by reading our stack of Ensigns and visiting the Ambassador Hotel across the street, and Oliver's Saddle Shop down the block. Friday we were stuck inside also, so we did a lot of planning. Saturday and Sunday we managed to arrange for people to give us rides to appointments and teach with us. (Regardless of weather, how often do missionaries in Montreal do that? Other than my mission prep, I don't remember anyone mentioning doing lessons alongside the missionaries...)
On Sunday, our ward's meetings were cancelled.
Just a few days before the snow, it was sunny and comparatively warm. We didn't need any jackets (or grocery bags lining our shoes). I also got in a bike wreck. My front wheel slipped to the side and I flipped right over the bike. I don't remember it, but I hit my knee somewhere in the process, which got a little cut, and it was sore for a while. Anyways, since the days we were stuck inside, we decided that we couldn't just sit around doing nothing. Elder Pearce had black boots and I had Wal-Mart bags over my socks (I found a crack in each of my new shoes!), so we decided to go walking. After a long afternoon of nothing, we came back with wet feet. Then we decided to go biking. So since that time, we've been riding our bikes in the snow. If it's not too wet and if it's not too slippery, we do fine, and we manage to get places. Sometimes, it's actually kinda fun. It's funny: we can ride our bikes in the snow better than most Texans can drive in the snow.
Then it started to rain. We tried biking out in that, but we got wet and consequently, very cold. Not only that, one man we tried to visit, whom we had been teaching for quite some time, asked us not to return. Needless to say, it was a miserable day.
But I did get the package you sent last Friday. Thanks for all the info and also that talk. Elder Cherrington had a friend that sent him the full version, given at BYU, and there are some things in there that aren't mentioned in the Ensign. You should check it out.
In other news, Elder Christopherson's companion, Elder Butterworth, finally arrived. Elder Christopherson is so relieved to have an official companion. Elder Butterworth is yet another one of those missionaries that came to the mission while I was in the office.
One thing I forgot to mention when I first got here is about the signs all over the city. I've spoken with many missionaries who would tell me about these signs with random messages on them placed all around town. Now that I'm serving here, I've been able to see quite a few, and find out what those missionaries were talking about. They've been put up by a man named Stanley Marsh. He's some rich dude who loves to spend money and is more eccentric than he is rich. He made the Cadillac Ranch, which is a bunch of cars half-buried front-first in the ground, and people are invited to come and spray paint them as they will. Anyways, he also put up signs (all of them diamond-shaped, like construction signs) in hundreds of locations around Amarillo, each with a quote, random saying, picture, or something.
A couple days ago, I got "the call". The call that I used to make while I was in the office. Sister Hansen called and asked which airport I wanted to fly to at the end of my mission. (You could tell she was tearing up a little over the phone.) I told her YUL. (I actually told her PET, which is what I thought they renamed it to. No one told me that the initials didn't change. I could've had a free flight to Brazil!)
Anyways, I hope all is well at home. I'm still looking for ways to send my pictures home.
Take care, and remember that the Church is true.
Love,
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010 - Let there be light
Hello!
We just had Zone Conference on Tuesday, and it went very well.
Things are going great here in Amarillo, and certainly much better than last week.
First, we went to the apartment complex managers and asked them to replace our toilet seat, which doesn't stay up. Apparently, it has been broken for months. Next, I went to the store and bought three packs of light bulbs. For the last long while, each room had a single 40-watt bulb, and it was really bothering me. Not only was it annoyingly impossible to see anything, but also the Spirit usually doesn't reside in dark places. Now, each room has at least two 100-watt bulbs (and some, four). The next thing to do would be a really good cleaning of the place, which has been rather tough with me unpacking my stuff.
Other than that, we've been having really warm weather, so bike riding is actually fun. Also, Elder Christopherson, who is in the Amarillo 2nd East area, doesn't have a companion yet, so he's been hanging out with us on and off. Every once in a while, he'd go with other missionaries also in "limbo", but he's anxious to have an official companion. In the meantime, though, he's been staying at our apartment, and we've been splitting time working in our area and his. We also get to use his area's car too sometimes.
That brings up an interesting question. Should I arrange to have my bike sent home at the end of my mission? I've always planned on it. Recently, I've thought that I might not have use for it at home and it would cost a lot to ship, but maybe it would be good to have. What do you think?
Anyways, I know the Church is true, and I love bearing my testimony of it.
I love you
-Elder Brandon Wong
We just had Zone Conference on Tuesday, and it went very well.
Things are going great here in Amarillo, and certainly much better than last week.
First, we went to the apartment complex managers and asked them to replace our toilet seat, which doesn't stay up. Apparently, it has been broken for months. Next, I went to the store and bought three packs of light bulbs. For the last long while, each room had a single 40-watt bulb, and it was really bothering me. Not only was it annoyingly impossible to see anything, but also the Spirit usually doesn't reside in dark places. Now, each room has at least two 100-watt bulbs (and some, four). The next thing to do would be a really good cleaning of the place, which has been rather tough with me unpacking my stuff.
Other than that, we've been having really warm weather, so bike riding is actually fun. Also, Elder Christopherson, who is in the Amarillo 2nd East area, doesn't have a companion yet, so he's been hanging out with us on and off. Every once in a while, he'd go with other missionaries also in "limbo", but he's anxious to have an official companion. In the meantime, though, he's been staying at our apartment, and we've been splitting time working in our area and his. We also get to use his area's car too sometimes.
That brings up an interesting question. Should I arrange to have my bike sent home at the end of my mission? I've always planned on it. Recently, I've thought that I might not have use for it at home and it would cost a lot to ship, but maybe it would be good to have. What do you think?
Anyways, I know the Church is true, and I love bearing my testimony of it.
I love you
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Thursday, January 14, 2010 - Hello from Amarillo
Hi Everyone!
I've been transferred to Amarillo, Texas!
This is the first time in a long while that I've been transferred "normally". That is: on the bus; without knowing where I'm going; without knowing my new companion; and without any special assignment. Because of all this, it was pretty exciting. It also made me really nervous. It took forever to pack all my stuff (I have a lot more than when I started off).
Anyways, I'm in Amarillo 2nd West [ward]. I've been released as a district leader, and I'm in my very first bike area. My new companion is Elder Pearce, and he's from western Idaho. That reminds me, this is the first time in a long while that I got a companion that I never heard of before.
It's rather interesting - I've never served in the Amarillo zone before. My whole mission, I've been slowly going north. Then, after Lubbock, I came down south again. Now, I'm in the northernmost zone in the mission. I wonder if that's symbolic...
The apartment is really dirty. Every time the south winds start up, it carries a certain foul odour from Hereford, which is nick-named "the beef capital of the world" (I think you can guess what that smell is). The library computers don't look like they'll be able to send my pictures home. Not to be pessimistic, but there's a lot that doesn't appeal about this area. But then again, when are we not supposed to face trials? Besides, I'm told that the ward is great. I've already met the new stake president (he just happened to drive by while we were out working), and he's very missionary-minded. I'm excited to really get things moving here.
Anyways, (there's a time limit on these computers - I really don't like library computers) that's all that's been going on around here. I've never been in this zone, so I don't really know any of the other missionaries here, and I'm looking forward to get to know them.
I hope everything is going well for you.
The Church is true.
I love you
-Elder Brandon Wong
I've been transferred to Amarillo, Texas!
This is the first time in a long while that I've been transferred "normally". That is: on the bus; without knowing where I'm going; without knowing my new companion; and without any special assignment. Because of all this, it was pretty exciting. It also made me really nervous. It took forever to pack all my stuff (I have a lot more than when I started off).
Anyways, I'm in Amarillo 2nd West [ward]. I've been released as a district leader, and I'm in my very first bike area. My new companion is Elder Pearce, and he's from western Idaho. That reminds me, this is the first time in a long while that I got a companion that I never heard of before.
It's rather interesting - I've never served in the Amarillo zone before. My whole mission, I've been slowly going north. Then, after Lubbock, I came down south again. Now, I'm in the northernmost zone in the mission. I wonder if that's symbolic...
The apartment is really dirty. Every time the south winds start up, it carries a certain foul odour from Hereford, which is nick-named "the beef capital of the world" (I think you can guess what that smell is). The library computers don't look like they'll be able to send my pictures home. Not to be pessimistic, but there's a lot that doesn't appeal about this area. But then again, when are we not supposed to face trials? Besides, I'm told that the ward is great. I've already met the new stake president (he just happened to drive by while we were out working), and he's very missionary-minded. I'm excited to really get things moving here.
Anyways, (there's a time limit on these computers - I really don't like library computers) that's all that's been going on around here. I've never been in this zone, so I don't really know any of the other missionaries here, and I'm looking forward to get to know them.
I hope everything is going well for you.
The Church is true.
I love you
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Thursday, January 7, 2010 - Happy New Year!
Howdy, y'all!
It's a cold day here today (and tomorrow). The high today is at freezing.
Missionary-wise, there's not too much going on here. We're working hard to find new people to teach. It's at a time like this that I realize not only how much I appreciated having work to do, but how much I personally value the message of the Restoration.
No matter what Church you go to (or if you feel that "you are your own church", and don't need to go at all), what is taught will have interpretations, opinions, and different views. If you're going to get interpretations, opinions, and views, you might as well get God's. The only way to do that is through current revelation. Hence, a current prophet. Hence, a Restoration.
Anyways, for New Year's, all the missionaries went to the chapel for a mini-party. After we arrived, a bunch of other people came and set up their own party, and we joined in for a while with them. We also had "flamin' diablos", which are steak cubes with jalapeno slices and bacon. It was fun, except Elder Wilson's camera got stolen by somebody.
Hope everything is going well.
(Lucky I got a tuque for Christmas from the ward!)
The Church is true!
I love you.
-Elder Brandon Wong
It's a cold day here today (and tomorrow). The high today is at freezing.
Missionary-wise, there's not too much going on here. We're working hard to find new people to teach. It's at a time like this that I realize not only how much I appreciated having work to do, but how much I personally value the message of the Restoration.
No matter what Church you go to (or if you feel that "you are your own church", and don't need to go at all), what is taught will have interpretations, opinions, and different views. If you're going to get interpretations, opinions, and views, you might as well get God's. The only way to do that is through current revelation. Hence, a current prophet. Hence, a Restoration.
Anyways, for New Year's, all the missionaries went to the chapel for a mini-party. After we arrived, a bunch of other people came and set up their own party, and we joined in for a while with them. We also had "flamin' diablos", which are steak cubes with jalapeno slices and bacon. It was fun, except Elder Wilson's camera got stolen by somebody.
Hope everything is going well.
(Lucky I got a tuque for Christmas from the ward!)
The Church is true!
I love you.
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009 - Merry Christmas!
Hey!
Merry Christmas from Texas, y'all!
Even better, it's snowing here today! Full-on, bona fide snow all over the place! That was totally unexpected.
Other than that, I went to the doctor's the night I sent that email (instead of the following week), who confirmed a small case of bronchitis, and prescribed some antibiotics for it. Meanwhile, Elder Cherrington's got something of his own. All six of the missionaries got sick with something in the last week or two. By the time we went to interviews/district meeting on Tuesday, it was a sad sight to see (except Sweetwater). Fortunately, with Christmas around the corner, it's a "slower" week, which makes all of us staying in to recover... not so bad of a thing.
Anyways, I'm looking forward to your phone call.
Talk to you soon! Bye!
-Elder Brandon Wong
Merry Christmas from Texas, y'all!
Even better, it's snowing here today! Full-on, bona fide snow all over the place! That was totally unexpected.
Other than that, I went to the doctor's the night I sent that email (instead of the following week), who confirmed a small case of bronchitis, and prescribed some antibiotics for it. Meanwhile, Elder Cherrington's got something of his own. All six of the missionaries got sick with something in the last week or two. By the time we went to interviews/district meeting on Tuesday, it was a sad sight to see (except Sweetwater). Fortunately, with Christmas around the corner, it's a "slower" week, which makes all of us staying in to recover... not so bad of a thing.
Anyways, I'm looking forward to your phone call.
Talk to you soon! Bye!
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009 - Christmas is approaching!
Hey!
What's up?
With me, I'm sick... again, or still. I don't know. It's been at least a month since I had my cold. Normally, I have a cough that lasts a while and gradually disappears. A couple of days ago, it started to get worse. Sister Robison said it might be bronchitis or pneumonia. She insisted that I see a doctor, and this time, I'm going to listen. I set up an appointment for early next week. This is the best Christmas ever.
Also, sadly, the lady that was preparing to be baptized on Sunday asked us to stop visiting her. She had been making so much progress, and we don't understand. We love her and her testimony, so we took it pretty hard.
On a positive note, thanks for the card, Dad. I love the pictures of your baptism. It's also probably the most powerful testimony you've ever borne to me. I'm keeping it on the cover of my study journal so I can look at it and show it to others.
The Sisters are doing a "12 days of Christmas" thing for one of their investigators, and for the first couple days, they asked Elder Cherrington to dress up as Santa for it. He would drop off a gift on their doorstep, knock, and run. The costume was just in case they opened the door too quick and saw who was there.
The other day, we decided to visit a member of the Church whose name we didn't recognize. When we met him, he informed us that he was born and raised in the Church, but he had since converted to Catholicism. We did a daily mass reading with him, a few prayers, and then he and Elder Cherrington discussed doctrinal points for the next hour. I wasn't quite in the mood. Then Elder Cherrington made the terrible mistake of giving him our phone number, and he has since called several times to discuss scriptures. He explained that when we are ready to make the change from Mormonism, he will be ready and willing to help us make the transition.
I wondered how someone could lose all the light and truth they once had. Then I remembered a passage of scripture in D&C 93:36-42. It is interesting: we could remember every detail discussed in Primary, every verse in the Bible and Book of Mormon, but without light and truth, none of it makes sense, and the doctrines of the world suddenly become appealing. Light and truth come by living the Gospel more and more everyday. I hope all of us will change every day for the better. If you've lived two days in a row that went exactly the same, you've done something wrong.
I don't know when the next P-day will be. Just be on the lookout for my email (as well as a phone call!).
Anyways, Merry Christmas!
I hope everything goes well, and that you get your wish.
The Church is true!
I love you
-Elder Brandon Wong
What's up?
With me, I'm sick... again, or still. I don't know. It's been at least a month since I had my cold. Normally, I have a cough that lasts a while and gradually disappears. A couple of days ago, it started to get worse. Sister Robison said it might be bronchitis or pneumonia. She insisted that I see a doctor, and this time, I'm going to listen. I set up an appointment for early next week. This is the best Christmas ever.
Also, sadly, the lady that was preparing to be baptized on Sunday asked us to stop visiting her. She had been making so much progress, and we don't understand. We love her and her testimony, so we took it pretty hard.
On a positive note, thanks for the card, Dad. I love the pictures of your baptism. It's also probably the most powerful testimony you've ever borne to me. I'm keeping it on the cover of my study journal so I can look at it and show it to others.
The Sisters are doing a "12 days of Christmas" thing for one of their investigators, and for the first couple days, they asked Elder Cherrington to dress up as Santa for it. He would drop off a gift on their doorstep, knock, and run. The costume was just in case they opened the door too quick and saw who was there.
The other day, we decided to visit a member of the Church whose name we didn't recognize. When we met him, he informed us that he was born and raised in the Church, but he had since converted to Catholicism. We did a daily mass reading with him, a few prayers, and then he and Elder Cherrington discussed doctrinal points for the next hour. I wasn't quite in the mood. Then Elder Cherrington made the terrible mistake of giving him our phone number, and he has since called several times to discuss scriptures. He explained that when we are ready to make the change from Mormonism, he will be ready and willing to help us make the transition.
I wondered how someone could lose all the light and truth they once had. Then I remembered a passage of scripture in D&C 93:36-42. It is interesting: we could remember every detail discussed in Primary, every verse in the Bible and Book of Mormon, but without light and truth, none of it makes sense, and the doctrines of the world suddenly become appealing. Light and truth come by living the Gospel more and more everyday. I hope all of us will change every day for the better. If you've lived two days in a row that went exactly the same, you've done something wrong.
I don't know when the next P-day will be. Just be on the lookout for my email (as well as a phone call!).
Anyways, Merry Christmas!
I hope everything goes well, and that you get your wish.
The Church is true!
I love you
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009 - It's December!
Hey!
How are things going?
It's getting pretty cold around here! Some days, it's foggy and never goes above 30, and the following days, it's sunny and goes up to 60 or 70! Sometimes, Texas just can't make up its mind.
I saw the pictures for Nathan's [Olympic] torch run! You looked way good! I also love that poster [coca-cola ad] of you! You're famous! I hope you had fun.
Nothing's been going on here, really.
We did go to the First Presidency Christmas devotional, and it was very good.
My companion had a couple doctor's appointments.
After having (almost completely) recovered from my cold (I still have a light cough), we're trying to catch up to the pace we were working before, and it's tough. I've never felt so useless when sick as when I have important work to do.
Our investigator quit drinking tea and we're all helping her keep a close eye on it. Elder Cherrington offered to quit drinking milk (which he loves) while she quits drinking tea. We also fasted with her for the Lord's help. So far, she's still going strong.
This Friday (tomorrow) we're having our Christmas zone conference. It's a combined one, so we're driving to Midland tonight.
Thanks for the pretzels, by the way! We're putting them to good use.
All is well here. Oh, except that I lost my tuque. Still looking for it. Worse comes to worst, Elder Cherrington will crochet me a new one.
Make the most out of this Christmas season.
The Church is true. Work on your testimony (that's what I'm doing). Christmastime is the best time for that! As the "Church of Jesus Christ", we should know the story of Jesus Christ the best, including His birth.
I love you!
Talk to you next week.
-Elder Brandon Wong
How are things going?
It's getting pretty cold around here! Some days, it's foggy and never goes above 30, and the following days, it's sunny and goes up to 60 or 70! Sometimes, Texas just can't make up its mind.
I saw the pictures for Nathan's [Olympic] torch run! You looked way good! I also love that poster [coca-cola ad] of you! You're famous! I hope you had fun.
Nothing's been going on here, really.
We did go to the First Presidency Christmas devotional, and it was very good.
My companion had a couple doctor's appointments.
After having (almost completely) recovered from my cold (I still have a light cough), we're trying to catch up to the pace we were working before, and it's tough. I've never felt so useless when sick as when I have important work to do.
Our investigator quit drinking tea and we're all helping her keep a close eye on it. Elder Cherrington offered to quit drinking milk (which he loves) while she quits drinking tea. We also fasted with her for the Lord's help. So far, she's still going strong.
This Friday (tomorrow) we're having our Christmas zone conference. It's a combined one, so we're driving to Midland tonight.
Thanks for the pretzels, by the way! We're putting them to good use.
All is well here. Oh, except that I lost my tuque. Still looking for it. Worse comes to worst, Elder Cherrington will crochet me a new one.
Make the most out of this Christmas season.
The Church is true. Work on your testimony (that's what I'm doing). Christmastime is the best time for that! As the "Church of Jesus Christ", we should know the story of Jesus Christ the best, including His birth.
I love you!
Talk to you next week.
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Thursday, December 3, 2009 - Another one into the fold
Howdy!
There's an expression that people use: " *such and such will happen* when hell freezes over!" We just had snow in Abilene, Texas. Does that count?
The last couple days, we've been getting rain and cold weather. At night, the two would combine and the result is that the following morning... there's snow randomly in patches on the ground. I've met residents here who have never seen snow in their life. I guess this is their chance.
We had a baptism on Sunday for a nine-year-old boy. They asked me to perform it. It was the first time I had ever done a baptism myself. It went a lot quicker than I expected. I'm just glad I got it right the first time. Right after coming out of the water, he commented that he was glad that no part of his body floated to the top.
We were also going to have a baptism this coming Sunday, but she is still drinking tea. We thought it would be the easiest thing to get rid of, but I figured, if it's part of the Word of Wisdom, obviously God didn't think it was so easy. We are still confident that she can be baptized. She has a great testimony and a great spirit.
I'm still sick. My cold is in its final stages, the last being a lingering dry cough. Exactly a year ago (in Midland), around Halloween time, I got a cold. As I was getting over it, I got some kind of stomach virus from something I ate. Now, a year later, I got a cold around Halloween time, and, as I was getting over it, I got some kind of stomach virus from something I ate. Last time, it was a Mexican buffet. This time, I don't know what it was, but it sure tasted great coming back up. First time I threw up in many years. It felt awful, but afterwards, it felt much better. Funny how those things are. (I guess it's like repentance - it doesn't feel good while you're doing it, but you'll feel much better after.)
We also had transfers this week. A lot of changes happened. Elder Cherrington and I are still serving together, but Elder Allred, Sister Wallwork, Sister Westover, and Elders Rasmussen and Wakefield left. Elder Allred is training in Midland. Sister Wallwork is training in Amarillo. Elder Lowe is training here in Abilene. Sweetwater got whitewashed. Now, our district is all of Abilene and Sweetwater, and Eastland is now part of the Brownwood district. The ones who came in are Sis Ficken, Elder Clove (a greenie), and Elders Rackley and Hansen for Sweetwater. It was pretty crazy. After the transfer bus left, we all went to New York Pizza for supper and got to know each other.
It's going to be an exciting transfer.
I know the Church is true.
I love you! take care.
-Elder Brandon Wong
P.S.: Isn't it interesting how it's always cold and rainy in Abilene at transfer time?
There's an expression that people use: " *such and such will happen* when hell freezes over!" We just had snow in Abilene, Texas. Does that count?
The last couple days, we've been getting rain and cold weather. At night, the two would combine and the result is that the following morning... there's snow randomly in patches on the ground. I've met residents here who have never seen snow in their life. I guess this is their chance.
We had a baptism on Sunday for a nine-year-old boy. They asked me to perform it. It was the first time I had ever done a baptism myself. It went a lot quicker than I expected. I'm just glad I got it right the first time. Right after coming out of the water, he commented that he was glad that no part of his body floated to the top.
We were also going to have a baptism this coming Sunday, but she is still drinking tea. We thought it would be the easiest thing to get rid of, but I figured, if it's part of the Word of Wisdom, obviously God didn't think it was so easy. We are still confident that she can be baptized. She has a great testimony and a great spirit.
I'm still sick. My cold is in its final stages, the last being a lingering dry cough. Exactly a year ago (in Midland), around Halloween time, I got a cold. As I was getting over it, I got some kind of stomach virus from something I ate. Now, a year later, I got a cold around Halloween time, and, as I was getting over it, I got some kind of stomach virus from something I ate. Last time, it was a Mexican buffet. This time, I don't know what it was, but it sure tasted great coming back up. First time I threw up in many years. It felt awful, but afterwards, it felt much better. Funny how those things are. (I guess it's like repentance - it doesn't feel good while you're doing it, but you'll feel much better after.)
We also had transfers this week. A lot of changes happened. Elder Cherrington and I are still serving together, but Elder Allred, Sister Wallwork, Sister Westover, and Elders Rasmussen and Wakefield left. Elder Allred is training in Midland. Sister Wallwork is training in Amarillo. Elder Lowe is training here in Abilene. Sweetwater got whitewashed. Now, our district is all of Abilene and Sweetwater, and Eastland is now part of the Brownwood district. The ones who came in are Sis Ficken, Elder Clove (a greenie), and Elders Rackley and Hansen for Sweetwater. It was pretty crazy. After the transfer bus left, we all went to New York Pizza for supper and got to know each other.
It's going to be an exciting transfer.
I know the Church is true.
I love you! take care.
-Elder Brandon Wong
P.S.: Isn't it interesting how it's always cold and rainy in Abilene at transfer time?
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009 - Happy American Thanksgiving!
Hello, everyone!
Happy American Thanksgiving!
It's an exciting time of year, and, like last year at this time, I'm still sick. A year ago, I was in Midland, and the day before Halloween, I got a cold. This year, I got it a little later. I'm taking vitamin-C, Theraflu, and I got a priesthood blessing. Now, a week after it started, I'm well enough to go out and teach and do things.
A family in the ward invited us to their home for Thanksgiving, and we're excited. Because of some doctor's appointments for the Sisters, we're also having District meeting Thursday morning. Other than that, we don't have much planned for the day. We've been asked to work, but not go tracting.
Elder Allred's MRI came back, and he's got tendonitis, whatever that is.
By the way, I loved the Line of Authority cards and "Remember This" cards that you sent - they're great. Could you send more of the "Remember This" ones? I'm going to hand them out to missionaries.
A new rule came out for this mission: we're only allowed to listen to hymns from our hymnbook for music. This doesn't really affect me, because I don't really listen to much music anyways, or mind one way or the other.
I was reading the latest issue of the Ensign (the blue one with the St. George temple on it), and there was an article about sharing the Gospel online. Elder Christensen said it'll never replace missionaries (for a million-and-one reasons - mainly the personal witness of the Holy Ghost), but it can greatly help in spreading the word. It got me thinking about anything I can do. I have a blog online now, but it's mostly stories and things that happen. I got thinking, took a blank sheet of paper and started scribbling and sketching on it. I designed a website that simply outlines the beliefs of our church, in a way that'll make people want to read more. One day, I'll make it.
On Sunday, I'm going to baptize a boy that we've been teaching. He and his older brother have such a great spirit about them and they love coming to church. They're really excited and he's been waiting for a long time. The following Sunday, we're having another baptism. We're all really excited.
It's a great time to be alive. It's a great time to be a member of the Church. I know the Church is true.
I love you!
-Elder Brandon Wong
Happy American Thanksgiving!
It's an exciting time of year, and, like last year at this time, I'm still sick. A year ago, I was in Midland, and the day before Halloween, I got a cold. This year, I got it a little later. I'm taking vitamin-C, Theraflu, and I got a priesthood blessing. Now, a week after it started, I'm well enough to go out and teach and do things.
A family in the ward invited us to their home for Thanksgiving, and we're excited. Because of some doctor's appointments for the Sisters, we're also having District meeting Thursday morning. Other than that, we don't have much planned for the day. We've been asked to work, but not go tracting.
Elder Allred's MRI came back, and he's got tendonitis, whatever that is.
By the way, I loved the Line of Authority cards and "Remember This" cards that you sent - they're great. Could you send more of the "Remember This" ones? I'm going to hand them out to missionaries.
A new rule came out for this mission: we're only allowed to listen to hymns from our hymnbook for music. This doesn't really affect me, because I don't really listen to much music anyways, or mind one way or the other.
I was reading the latest issue of the Ensign (the blue one with the St. George temple on it), and there was an article about sharing the Gospel online. Elder Christensen said it'll never replace missionaries (for a million-and-one reasons - mainly the personal witness of the Holy Ghost), but it can greatly help in spreading the word. It got me thinking about anything I can do. I have a blog online now, but it's mostly stories and things that happen. I got thinking, took a blank sheet of paper and started scribbling and sketching on it. I designed a website that simply outlines the beliefs of our church, in a way that'll make people want to read more. One day, I'll make it.
On Sunday, I'm going to baptize a boy that we've been teaching. He and his older brother have such a great spirit about them and they love coming to church. They're really excited and he's been waiting for a long time. The following Sunday, we're having another baptism. We're all really excited.
It's a great time to be alive. It's a great time to be a member of the Church. I know the Church is true.
I love you!
-Elder Brandon Wong
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009 - OD'd on Vitamin-C
Hey!
I don't have too much time (it seems like I have less and less every week) - today, we're going fishing / having a picnic on a member's property.
Oh, and I'm sick. I started with the usual dry throat and now it's a full-on sickness. It seems I've successfully averted it at least twice in the past. I had a dry throat, but I OD'd on vitamin-C and hard work, and pushed it off. I thought I could get rid of it forever, but I guess not.
I went on exchanges to Eastland with Elder Hanks. So, I had a dry throat, and we were biking around Eastland in 30-40 degree weather. It was miserable.
Speaking of biking, Elder Allred woke up one morning with a foot that was purple and swollen. The doctors had no idea what caused it. They put it in a brace and said to come back later. In the meantime, they're using the minivan, so we've been on our bikes.
By the way, to answer Elder Kaufman, I did know Elder Olson. I was never his companion, but we served around each other and I got to know him a little bit.
This week, our most progressing investigator accepted a baptismal date. It was tough. The lesson took three hours. Most of those hours, I was distracting the kids so Elder Cherrington could teach uninterrupted. She was reluctant at first, but she knows that this is what she needs. Now, we all speak in terms of "when it happens", rather than "if".
It's wonderful to see someone go through the conversion process. Since I grew up in the Church, I myself took it gradually - over many years - and hardly noticed it happen, so I'm not used to seeing it happen so quickly (comparatively). It is a true testimony that true conversion does happen. Whether slow or fast, it is as sure as the sun rising, and as strong as a summer Texan heat.
I know that this church is true. It is not based on the opinions or interpretations of men, but on knowledge from God.
I love you! Have a good week. Don't get sick.
-Elder Brandon Wong
I don't have too much time (it seems like I have less and less every week) - today, we're going fishing / having a picnic on a member's property.
Oh, and I'm sick. I started with the usual dry throat and now it's a full-on sickness. It seems I've successfully averted it at least twice in the past. I had a dry throat, but I OD'd on vitamin-C and hard work, and pushed it off. I thought I could get rid of it forever, but I guess not.
I went on exchanges to Eastland with Elder Hanks. So, I had a dry throat, and we were biking around Eastland in 30-40 degree weather. It was miserable.
Speaking of biking, Elder Allred woke up one morning with a foot that was purple and swollen. The doctors had no idea what caused it. They put it in a brace and said to come back later. In the meantime, they're using the minivan, so we've been on our bikes.
By the way, to answer Elder Kaufman, I did know Elder Olson. I was never his companion, but we served around each other and I got to know him a little bit.
This week, our most progressing investigator accepted a baptismal date. It was tough. The lesson took three hours. Most of those hours, I was distracting the kids so Elder Cherrington could teach uninterrupted. She was reluctant at first, but she knows that this is what she needs. Now, we all speak in terms of "when it happens", rather than "if".
It's wonderful to see someone go through the conversion process. Since I grew up in the Church, I myself took it gradually - over many years - and hardly noticed it happen, so I'm not used to seeing it happen so quickly (comparatively). It is a true testimony that true conversion does happen. Whether slow or fast, it is as sure as the sun rising, and as strong as a summer Texan heat.
I know that this church is true. It is not based on the opinions or interpretations of men, but on knowledge from God.
I love you! Have a good week. Don't get sick.
-Elder Brandon Wong
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