tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34682307926345654602024-03-13T00:53:13.894-07:00AJ's Missionary Experience...Elder JacksonAJ's MISSIONARY EXPERIENCE...EDLER JACKSON left his ASU college career and Spirit Squad experience behind, not to mention family and friends for two years as he begins his mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, serving in the California, Riverside mission. Follow what will undoubtedly be a most interesting journey with weekly updates!candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-59019685537286205032017-08-09T11:31:00.001-07:002017-08-09T11:31:59.710-07:00Pushing My Hardest from the Intersection of Elder and Cool!<div style="text-align: center;">
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I got to help build a helicopter, we had zone pictures, we went to a yummy steakhouse, the intersection of "Cool" and "Elder" and some other fun times! </div>
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I can't believe in 7 days I'll be giving you a big ol' hug!!! I can't wait! That will be so much fun!! I love you and dad so much and I am so excited to see you. I plan on going as hard as I can this week. I am really excited because I think (and am praying) that our investigator Crystal R. will be getting baptized in the next week, on my last Sunday here in the mission! It's going to be awesome! </div>
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It will be so nice to see Dad again, I am sure. I sure love that guy and am excited to see him too. He is great. Man, being on a plane that long unnecessarily would be awful. I'm glad you endured it well and made it safely! </div>
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I think I will do cheer, but like you say as a side thing. I really want to succeed in my major at BYU so I will be doing all I can to get good grades. I feel so much more confident with school now and I feel that I can be a lot more wise and judicial with my time. </div>
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This week was great! I really enjoyed MyPlan this week. It really taught me a lot about preparing for the future. I feel a lot more comfortable and confident. I enjoyed the approach they took to it as it was more about having an attitude of faith and continuing discipleship. It will be a great help to the adjustment of returning home. I have really felt the Spirit help me these last few weeks. He has helped me see that I can keep growing greatly these last few days of my mission. I am pushing my hardest and want to "leave it all on the field". </div>
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I really enjoyed reading in Matthew 8:17 where it talks about Christ taking our infirmities. I visualized Him physically taking these infirmities from these people. A lot of the infirmities that He took were awful. I can only imagine the bravery and love it would take to willingly take upon Himself those terrible pains and weaknesses and infirmities. The love He has is amazing. I hope I can show my love for Him by being obedient!</div>
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I love you tons!! </div>
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Love,</div>
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Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-71322596983757158142017-08-03T05:24:00.000-07:002017-08-03T05:24:45.381-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
It sure is getting close! It's weird that I have less days than Elder Broadhead has months, or even transfers! And yes, that is so cool about seeing the Mullens!</div>
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I'll admit though, I still don't feel like I am going home. It is weird to describe, but I don't think it has hit me yet!</div>
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That is so cool about the Mission President. It's a small world. So there is a boy in our ward (our Bishop's son actually) who is serving his mission in Guatemala. He just got a new mission president. The new president is the Moreno Valley Stake President's brother, President Schumway. He is from Elko. The stake president's son is also serving a mission in Guatemala, just a different mission. I'm sure the returned mission president you met was the one who was replaced by our stake president's brother! Small world eh? That is way cool! </div>
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This week was another great one. There really are no such things as bad weeks when you are a missionary though. I love being out here. All of our hard work has seemed to pay off and we were able to pick up some awesome new investigators (including Crystal C., an investigator I had taught when I was here in this area last year!). It was way cool! We also had 3 people come to church, which is always a wonderful blessing. There should be quite a few baptisms coming up here in the next few weeks and months!</div>
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I was studying a lot for a talk I gave this week. I am still geeking out over Elder D. Todd Christofferson's talk called "The Voice of Warning". It really paints super clearly that if we are to truly live the gospel, we must share it. I believe the two are reciprocal and cannot be done without each other. Ezekiel 33 shows very well that our neighbors' blood is on our heads if we do not sufficiently warn them. I think that is quite easy as a missionary, but I admit, that would be a little more challenging as a "regular member", but it is nonetheless important. We have to let love be our motive in sharing the gospel, and if we do not I don't think it ever comes across as effective. If we don't have love motivate us, I think that is where the fear of opening our mouth comes from. It connected for me to 2 Corinthians 8:9 where it says that Christ was rich but became poor (performed His Atonement) for us so that we through Him can too be made rich. If we are willing to do what He asks He will transform us. We can work all we want but it is only through Christ that we can leave poverty. Once we are lifted from poverty's grasp, it becometh us to let our fellowman how they too can be lifted by Christ. If we don't I feel that we are as dross and are as hypocrites. We must love not only God, but our neighbors. We have a serious obligation to warn.</div>
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Here are some pictures of a disgustingly huge truck we saw this week! Why some people like trucks that big, I don't know.</div>
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I hope you enjoy your time in KY! I love you so much!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-91408233222987978182017-07-26T21:21:00.000-07:002017-07-26T21:21:15.254-07:00"A Sharp Object"<div style="text-align: center;">
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This week was really good. Again, we worked our hardest and looked for ways to improve, even though we didn't see a lot of results for our work. I truly think the Lord is testing us to see if we will keep being obedient and hard-working when we aren't seeing success right away. </div>
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We experienced miracles this week! We had an appointment set up with our investigator. We had a team-up planned to come with us but when she showed up she said she needed to reschedule. So we did. The night we had an appointment planned with her we had another team-up planned. We were late going to pick him up but he was late coming too, so it all worked out! Then during the lesson, the concerns she brought up were those that only he could answer (it was about race, and both the investigator and our team-up are black so he was able to say things that we couldn't). She was able to feel the Spirit and we were able to help put the pieces together to help her understand the different things she was feeling (which was great because I was able to use some of what I had learned in feeling confusing spirits to help). It was great! I'm so thankful that the Lord orchestrated all of that so that we were all where we needed to be at the right time to help this child of God!</div>
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I was reading in D&C 121:34-46 this week and some wonderful things stood out to me! In verse 38 it says that if we do not live the way God has asked, especially as priesthood holders, we are left to "kick against the pricks". I looked up what a prick was. It described it being a sharp object. Kicking a sharp, pointed object would be very painful. I also remembered that in Acts 2 (also verse 38) it describes the Holy Ghost as "[pricking] in their hearts". So the Spirit taught me that living contrary to the way we are told to in D&C 121 will leave us to painfully kick against the pointed pricks of the Spirit- we will be kicking God out of our life. We always say how much we need the Spirit to function, and it is true. If we don't act as we should, we will kick that Spirit away to our own detriment. We must not do that. We must serve as if we were truly servants.</div>
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That is a way cool blessing! Blessings are awesome. I truly enjoy giving them. I'm glad that you were able to receive what God wanted you to hear! </div>
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Haha those pictures (of trucks on the freeway) remind me of when I was like 11 years old and thought semis were the coolest thing ever and I took dozens of pictures of them as we were on a road trip. Do you remember that? But they look good! I think a photography class sounds like a blast. I would be happy to take your Nikon and try to learn how to use it. I don't know much about photography but I sure want to learn! </div>
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I also got to ride in a Humvee this week! It was sick! </div>
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I hope you have the best week ever! Love you so so so much! </div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-17823285989216331682017-07-17T19:39:00.000-07:002017-07-17T19:39:41.665-07:00Working as Hard as I Can (Home August 15th!)<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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We had an awesome week. We worked really hard and even though we didn't have much success in finding a lot of new people to teach we did see the Lord's hand in our work a lot! We had gotten quite a bit of backlog referrals and old potentials piled up on our whiteboard so we set out to find those who were ready to be taught and pause those who weren't. We spent a few days stopping by as many of them as time would allow with absolutely no success. We didn't let up though and at the end of one night right before we were supposed to return to our apartment we stopped by Mario. We sat down with him and had a wonderful lesson. He is very simple in his understanding but is just a nice man. He accepted baptism and a date and came to church! It was a wonderful miracle and made all the hot weather and no-answer doors worth it! It was awesome. </div>
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One day, when we were walking around and it was particularly hot and humid, I had the distinct impression that what I was doing right then and there made God happy. That was a really cool thought. I wasn't doing anything amazing and we weren't even having a ton of success, but the fact that we were out laboring in faith even when there wasn't immediate results made my Father in Heaven happy. That is a wonderful thought to have. I am grateful for the reassurances of the Holy Ghost and the thoughts He gives us.</div>
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I also had a wonderful thought as I was studying. I came across a part in Alma where it talks about the people of Ammon feeling, because of the dire circumstances they were in, that they should dig up their weapons and go and defend their country. Helaman counseled against it, saying they might lose their souls if they did. That hit me hard. The people of Ammon were among the most converted in the Book of Mormon and I think the reason they stayed converted was that they buried their weapons of rebellion and they left them buried. They didn't "return to [their] vomit", no matter how much it seemed like they must. They trusted in their priesthood leader and kept their covenants and the Lord blessed them. We don't know what would've happened if they had retaken arms, but thank goodness they didn't. We must do the same. Once we have buried our rebellion we must not return to it and we must move forward with faith, keeping our covenants and remembering the associated promises.</div>
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I also loved Elder D. Todd Christofferson's talk this past General Conference called The Voice of Warning. It talked about how watchmen warn. We typically think of prophets as watchmen (Ezekiel 33), but we can be too. D&C 88:81 tells us that those who have been warned must warn their neighbor. We have been warned of the dangers of sin and so it is our obligation to warn our neighbors (all) of the dangers of sin and the joy that comes from keeping the commandments or else their blood is on our heads. Thus, missionary work isn't just a good idea or a nice gesture, but a sacred obligation of all members of the Church. It made me so much more motivated to share the gospel now and when I return home. It also has helped in our dinner visits and working with members! </div>
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I am planning on not "dying" and working as hard as I can. I feel like I really have been making myself fire on all cylinders. I don't want to finish my mission jogging, but rather sprinting. </div>
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Please don't get hurt in the fire! That would be nooooo good! I can't believe that plant is still alive after all these years either! That is crazy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUUNKgH2VsxyO7phbpb2glEes-uleK4L8fCqskTopWo17ZK7lpHx95zEuxZBh_MnxvHimzjT0y9FnBlLW9trB9sLRZ5sFbUcr43AteotOkdzmTjWRgxM1LqHHtLgpoevI7ve4Vi8Gbl_E/s1600/2017+7+16+AJ+Plant+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUUNKgH2VsxyO7phbpb2glEes-uleK4L8fCqskTopWo17ZK7lpHx95zEuxZBh_MnxvHimzjT0y9FnBlLW9trB9sLRZ5sFbUcr43AteotOkdzmTjWRgxM1LqHHtLgpoevI7ve4Vi8Gbl_E/s320/2017+7+16+AJ+Plant+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is the plant Elder Jackson gave his mom in kindergarten! I have packed a starter plant from this one to take with me in case we have a fire evacuation.</div>
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So as far as AZ, maybe I can fly down either the morning of the 22nd or 23rd and return the morning of the 28th, that way I have a while to see all my old pals. </div>
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As far as my flight home, I am totally ok with you posting the arrival time of my flight on Facebook so that people can come. </div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;">(SLC, Delta Terminal, 1pm, August 15th!)</span></div>
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I am sooooo excited for the family get-together that week before school starts! It sounds like a blast to me! We should plan out some fun things! I am so excited to meet little Bryson too! </div>
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As far as technology, should we plan on getting it right when I get home (before we head to Winnemucca)? Or what do you think? I'm fine with whatever! </div>
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Is my apartment furnished? Am I sharing a room or am I in one of my own? </div>
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Here's some pictures of the week! I got a good one with the Hammons and we saw the F16s doing some cool flight exercises! They are soooo cool! And I love the Hammons! </div>
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I hope you have the best week! Love you tons!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-19905861541685423102017-07-13T22:00:00.000-07:002017-07-13T22:00:52.893-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
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We got be Marshalls in the Independence Day Parade! It was a blast!</div>
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I'm glad that Winnemucca hasn't burned down yet! Hopefully it doesn't! I see the smoke from fires here every few days. It is crazy how it went from looking like Scotland here a few months ago to being 111 degrees and bone-dry with fires all over. Fortunately all of them are pretty small and seem to be under control quite quickly. Stay safe up there!<br />
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I have really had a great week this week. We were able to have a lot of success and had 3 people at church as well as finding some awesome new people to teach. I am amazed at how well Satan can counterfeit the works of the Lord. But it really is just as Moses describes when he asks where his glory is. Satan can't replicate the peace that comes from the Spirit no matter how much he tries. I was reading this morning in Alma 56:39-40 where the stripling warriors are being pursued in a straight line. The Lamanites were pursuing them and not leaving their course because they were set on destroying and the Nephites were going straight so they would not be destroyed. When we stay on the strait and narrow we will be able to avoid the darts of Satan who is chasing after us with a desire to destroy us. That is what I am doing. I want to do my best to be obedient in all so that I have no deviations in my course that would allow Satan to catch up to me.<br />
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We were ushers at a car show for a "car club" which felt like the 4-wheel version of the Hell's Angels!<br />
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I love you tons! Have the best week ever!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-25684134418123764752017-06-27T12:32:00.000-07:002017-06-27T12:32:33.796-07:00Sad Goodbyes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the coolest missionaries I know!</td></tr>
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This week I came to know the Savior more as I studied His teachings to the apostles regarding growing faith and overcoming doubts. I was again baffled by the complete lack of of doubt that the Savior had. He was in the same situations that the apostles were in (such as casting out devils or walking on the water) but was able to do so much more than them because he did not have any doubt. He believed completely in Himself and knew He was doing His Father's will. I was really excited to learn more about this and to start applying it. I need to have more faith so that I can be the tool through which miracles can happen. </div>
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Things are going well here in Lasselle and Ironwood. I am excited for all the good things that happening. We are having a lot of member involvement, people at church, etc. It is great! I'm pumped. We are having a baptism this Sunday!</div>
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I am really sad that President and Sister Mullen are leaving this Friday. It will be an interesting transition. We'll see how it goes! I sustain my leaders though. I know President Hammon is called of God. </div>
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It has been waaaaayy hot here. Yesterday was 111. But water helps! </div>
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We had a few missionaries come home here in Moval so they are way excited to help us out and give us referrals. You are right, the responsibility to share the gospel is actually not on the missionaries, but it is on the members. The members are to find and the missionaries are to teach. The more members do missionary work, the more the church grows. The counsel given all throughout the D&C in regards to missionary work is for all members, not just missionaries. </div>
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Tell the family hi for me! I am excited to see them all. I hope they can all be at the airport when I arrive. I got my itinerary this week from President Mullen during my exit interview. Ahhh it was so spiritual but it is also so sad. I will be so bummed when my mission comes to an end. It's getting real. This is my last transfer. Ever. It's sad. </div>
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Here's a sample of a Samoan dinner and some shirts I designed for the mission! The Justs are some of the coolest missionaries I know and they are heading home this week :(</div>
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Love you so much! </div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :) </div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-72241335065141390992017-06-22T12:36:00.000-07:002017-06-22T12:36:06.167-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brother Samuelu, "He's the coolest!"</td></tr>
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<br /> This week was absolutely fantastic. I was really taught a lot by the Lord. Last week I realized that my effort could use some work so I set out at the start of last week to push as hard as I could this week and to qualify more for the Holy Ghost. Long story short, I am prideful and need to humble myself and I need to grow my faith more by being more diligent and finish my mission sprinting. I just need to make sure I don't forget this important lesson over the next few weeks!</div>
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I have been focusing on increasing my faith by asking the Lord in prayer every morning to lead me to those I can baptize and to help me be able to treat this day as if it's my only day to serve Him. I also have been asking what I need to study multiple times during my personal study both for myself and my investigators. I honestly forgot to do it many times but I did notice a big difference in my attitude and the Spirit I felt during the week. I realize how easy it is to plateau and unless we are constantly looking for ways God wants us to improve, we will start digressing in our progression (Alma 37:41). We saw some miracles in the Samoan ward this week by being led to a really cool set of cousins. We felt strongly to stop by this one family but they were not there and we talked to the younger cousins instead. We taught them the message of the Restoration and they accepted! It was awesome. We also were blessed to find some way cool people in the Lasselle Ward. We had 3 of them show up to church too! It is a huge blessing. </div>
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It is crazy to think that there in only a week and a half left of having President and Sister Mullen as my Mission President and wife. They go home the last day of June. It's sad! I'm going to miss them. We had a really good multi-zone conference this week in which they said goodbye to us and shared their testimonies, advice and the Doctrine of Christ. It was powerful. </div>
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I agree, I think the amount of time I have home will be perfect. Not too long or too short. I hope I can adjust in that amount of time. It is also really nice to know where I will be living and to have that all taken care of.</div>
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It is hot here but I think I've adjusted. We went hiking this morning and it got up to almost 100 by the time we finished and I didn't notice. I guess 4 years in this kind of heat makes it not seem so bad! </div>
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I am really determined to give it my all these last few weeks I have left! I love you so so much and I hope you have a fantastic week! Stay safe and enjoy your travels! Love you!!</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-16910351538364511822017-06-15T17:08:00.000-07:002017-06-15T17:08:12.252-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
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This week was a very interesting one. First off, I honestly feel like the Lord was letting me know all throughout the week that He was expecting more out of me. I was pushing hard but not giving my whole 100% effort, and He let me know he wanted all 100%. After some pondering and prayer and talking with my companion, Elder Broadhead, I identified the things that I should work on. We started pushing with full-steam and it was really cool how my whole attitude changed. It's funny how sometimes you have to relearn things many times. I felt the Spirit in so much of a greater abundance. The miracles started to come again and I again felt like the Lord trusted us.</div>
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I was reading in Alma 37 and 38 this week where Alma is counseling his sons. I really enjoyed how he was telling his son Helaman that he must stay focused and diligent or else, just like Lehi's family, he would wander and not progress in his journey. To his son Shiblon he counseled that he stay faithful and steady so the Lord would continue to bless him (endure to the end). I was led to Alma 25:15-16 which taught me that obedience builds faith in Christ. His obedience also brought Alma (and God) great joy. Our diligence and obedience bring about 3 major things that I see: 1) blessings from God 2) makes God and our leaders and loved ones joyful and 3) builds our faith in Christ, which faith is a requisite component of the doctrine of Christ, which is what we must live to be saved. It blew my mind. My whole outlook on obedience was changed (again). It motivated me to be increasingly more obedient and to not slacken, especially now at the close of my mission. I will admit, it's tougher to stay focused and diligent now with all that will be happening in the coming months, but I see now that I cannot afford to do anything other than sprint to the end. I cannot give God a satisfactory answer if I do not. I have seen miracles in my mission, and there is no reason I can't have more of them. I am excited to continue applying what I learned last week in this upcoming week so I can start on my journey once again and not wander aimlessly in the wilderness.</div>
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I hope your week is the best! Here are some pictures and a video from our service at March Field Air Museum and one of the ginormous cargo planes taking off, as well as one with my ZL Elder Whiting.<br />
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Love you tons!</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :) </div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-44460497051763800782017-06-08T20:58:00.003-07:002017-06-08T20:58:38.961-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We had a great Memorial Day. We went to the Riverside National Cemetery (it is huuuuuuuge! It has to be over a few square miles of just thousands and thousands of graves). It was awesome. We went through and picked up flags that had been placed on each grave. It's amazing how many people have served this country to keep it safe. There was also a really cool Medal of Honor memorial there that we checked out. America is the coolest. </div>
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I feel like a real missionary now that I've been bit by a dog. Thankfully I don't have rabies and it doesn't look like it will get infected (Boy Scouts does come in handy!). The bite only went a little in and wasn't too intense. Maybe it will leave a cool scar that I can make my mission seem super intense when I'm dating haha. But it was totally worth it because afterward, the lady who owns the dog let us in and we were able to have a fantastic lesson. She accepted a baptismal date (Elder Broadhead is getting really good at inviting!) and to read the Book of Mormon. She came to church yesterday as well and really enjoyed it! Her name is Crystal R. and she is a NICU nurse at Loma Linda and is a very good friend with our former Bishop's wife, who also works there. She is also good friends with members who live across the street. She has had missionaries talk to her before but apparently they had never invited her to learn more. She quickly accepted it and said she has always had questions she has wanted answered. It's amazing how much the Lord really does bless us when we believe that there are people out there who are ready to receive the gospel. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">March Air Force Base Museum service.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqi_-9i_OoDEpPkvzqL2Rw0kwPVF8g5FccyhreUT_VYL8V1tfEh-_SEuB_0lNu_PLNsJwyTAwuTLqzleCG3qg0ImfWphiBmHH4hmJSU7hpKr0lWfWF1Kimn5SVT28BuYBCziH8iC6Nxk/s1600/2017+6+5+AJ+Mission+%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqi_-9i_OoDEpPkvzqL2Rw0kwPVF8g5FccyhreUT_VYL8V1tfEh-_SEuB_0lNu_PLNsJwyTAwuTLqzleCG3qg0ImfWphiBmHH4hmJSU7hpKr0lWfWF1Kimn5SVT28BuYBCziH8iC6Nxk/s320/2017+6+5+AJ+Mission+%252816%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We met a guy who played basketball at BYU but who is not a member. It was kind of cool to hear about his experience there. He is still not of our faith but is very involved in a church. </div>
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Elder Broadhead is doing very well! I am very impressed with him and his skills. He is getting very comfortable with talking to people on the streets now and in lessons. I couldn't be happier with my companion.</div>
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Things are going great! I'm trying really hard to stay focused because honestly it is a little tough with how soon I will be coming home. But I've decided to only think about school stuff on Mondays and to not think about anything non-productive so that I can push hard to the end. I had a missionary tell me about a year ago that once you start to get to the last few months, its incredibly hard to focus with all that is running around in your mind with what is just around the corner and I agree. But I won't let that hold me down! I am going to finish strong! </div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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<br />candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-77106263757391009862017-05-26T20:31:00.000-07:002017-05-26T20:31:54.423-07:00May 22, 2017<br />
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Hi there! Sorry about the late reply! We had some crazy stuff happen today and so we are just now being able to email. Elder Aland isn't getting transferred after all and he is going to be with my buddy Elder Dall's (who is going home tomorrow) companion, Elder Frazier. Elder Frazier was supposed to train a new missionary too but apparently he tore his ACL in the MTC and cannot come out on his mission. He is bummed but that type of thing happens! We also had to help like 3 different companionships move apartments. It doesn't help that it is like 96 degrees today. But alas, I am able to write you! I also got a really cheap haircut today and it doesn't look too good. Thankfully my hair grows quickly! </div>
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This week was good. We were able to find some people. I am excited for this new transfer and the opportunity to be with a brand new missionary. I think that we will able to have a lot of success. It is weird though because this very well may be my last companion and I may not have any more transferring! That is crazy! I only have 12 weeks left and it will be busy with training, baptizing palagis and Samoans, doing MyPlan and having a brand new mission president come in. It's a weird feeling for sure to know that very quickly this whole life I've lived for the past 2 years will come to an end and I'll have to step back into the real world. It will be good though!</div>
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I came to know the Savior in Alma 31:38. I loved how it talked about sufferings that were swallowed up in the joy of Christ. I think that we suffer many things but they truly are swallowed up in the joy of our Savior. I look back on all that I have experienced on my mission with nothing but joy because of all the great things the Lord has done in my life for me and the miracles that have taken place. I feel that the Savior even had His pain and anguish from His life swallowed up in the joy of the redemption that Hi sacrifice made possible. He was the true example of allowing negativity to be completely swallowed up in the joy that comes from doing the Father's will. I want to continue to follow the example of Christ and be continually seeking the will of the Father so that my pains can be swallowed up in Christ.</div>
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I am really sad to see my good friend Elder Dall leave though. He's such a great kid. I have had a blast serving around him this past transfer and I am so pumped to be living close to him and hanging out with him next semester.</div>
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I really hope the missionary I train is way cool. I want to have a last comp that is really fun but also that I can get a lot of work done with. Thankfully, I've really enjoyed all of my companions and had a blast with all of them. We'll see what happens tomorrow!</div>
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Here are some pictures of service this week and pics of my drawings for a new t-shirt design that I am making! As well as a goodbye for Elder Dall! </div>
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I love you tons and hope you have the best week ever! Let me know how everything goes with the meeting tomorrow! Love you and drive safe! Have fun in KY!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-885290872860892092017-05-18T21:47:00.000-07:002017-05-18T21:47:00.327-07:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Mother's Day was this week. Missionaries get to call home on Christmas and Mother's Day, two calls each year they are out. As a result this week's P-Day (Monday) email was short because I talked to Elder Jackson Sunday! What a Mother's Day gift!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Oh, his return date is August 15th! Flying into SLC!</b></span></i></div>
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This week was good. We honestly struggled to get as much done as we would have liked to due to circumstances outside of our control, but we made the most of it and tried to not let it get us down. On a day when we didn't seem to have 5 million things to do we made some goals, pled (I don't know if it's plead, pled, or pleaded haha) for the Lord's help in accomplishing them and then went to work full of faith that we would accomplish them, seeing as we had not seen much success all week. It felt so great to be putting all the let downs from the week behind us and to be working with joy and confidence. Our pleas were heard and we were able to find a family to teach and they were very open to hearing our message, despite having rambunctious kids they were tying to goal-tend. It was a miracle and we were so grateful. I am excited to have a fresh week ahead of us and to have lots of good to be done. There are no doubt people to be baptized here and we are going to do it. I fully believe that.</div>
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I really came to know the Savior through prayer this week. I feel like, as prayers so often do, my prayers had started on the "rote cylce" again and I knew they needed some spicing-up. I put a lot of effort into making it a conversation rather than a phone call. As I did I felt that the Savior really had experienced everything I had and wants to help me. I felt comfort and peace and I have tried to make my prayers just as meaningful since.</div>
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It was way good to talk to you too and it is unreal how soon I really will be home! I can't wait to see you and dad again! You two are my favorite and I can't wait to just hang out with y'all. It'll be so much fun. I will continue to make the best of the time I have left though. </div>
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That is scary about the hacking! Ew. I'm assuming that doesn't have anything to do with the flags being at half mast today? Had you heard anything about that?</div>
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I love you a ton too! You are the best momma ever! I love you a bunch and I hope your Mother's Day was great! I can't wait to talk to you face-to-face in 3 months!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-47789228480263496752017-05-09T14:52:00.001-07:002017-05-09T14:52:33.303-07:00<br />
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We had stake conference this week and guess who got asked to speak?? Me. President Mullen called me on my birthday to ask. I couldn't tell if he was calling me for something else or to wish me a happy birthday, but I definitely wasn't expecting to be asked to speak! haha. It went well. His talk was on service/Just Serve, and my short talk was simply to accompany his. It was fun. I just hope I don't have to do it again since they had an RM speak too. I guess that's one of the perks of starting school a few weeks after getting home :)</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had a great birthday. This is my "Birthday Pyramid!"</td></tr>
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This week was a fantastic one! We were able to be greatly blessed by the Lord! We were blessed particularly with unplanned finding opportunities. We were also able to be led to lots of people who were willing to accept a baptismal date. The coolest one of them all was someone who was at stake conference whom we had never met before. His name is Allan and he is married to a returned-missionary. We had heard that he wanted to take the lessons. We were hoping to be introduced to him at church. His wife called and asked if we could have a lesson with him after church. Well we thought they meant that evening, but they marched right up to us and asked if we could meet right then. Of course we were more than happy to do so. It was a powerful lesson and he is so prepared! He has already read over 100 pages of the Book of Mormon and feels it is good. He loves church and wants to serve a mission with his wife one day. He is preparing to be baptized on the 11th of June. He said he is willing to put in all the work he needs to in order to prepare for his baptism. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting to "serve" again at March AFB Museum. Love this kind of service.</td></tr>
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We also had a wonderful lesson with Alliyah. She loves what she's learning. She's feeling a little bit of opposition as she gets closer to her baptismal date. She missed church because her uncle died the night before and she was too distraught to come, however she felt the Spirit tell her to go. She ignored the prompting and said she felt bad. She then prayed for forgiveness without us even having to tell her! It was awesome! She even invited her friend to come to a lesson. Her friend loved it so much that she wants to keep taking the lessons too and be baptized the week after Alliyah! Her name is Selena.</div>
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I came to know the Savior much more during Stake Conference. I really came to know that I need to trust the first prompting of the Spirit. No matter what doubt comes our way after that, to stick to the things the Spirit told us to do in the beginning. That is something that I learned in interviews with President Mullen a few weeks back, but it was reaffirmed. I feel like the Lord was rebuking me lovingly for "sign-seeking", for lack of a better term. I can have no greater witness than from God, so why look for one. Simply trust what He gives you. Jesus was tempted in all points, like we are, but yet was without sin. He had every reason to doubt, especially when the devil came to tempt him and the Jews were mocking Him, yet He gave them no heed and looked only to the Father and relied on the witnesses he had been given. I need to be like that. I must "wait on the Lord" and His blessings.</div>
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Funny story for the week, we were going to leave for stake conference Sunday morning and as I am backing out Elder Aland I hear a loud screeching from a car slamming on the brakes. That is quite odd for slow traffic in an apartment complex on a Sunday morning. There is a huge skid mark on the pavement, and a car leaning awkwardly connected to it, just about 20 feet away from us. We see a lady get out and we go offer help and see what happened. She had gone over basically an inverted speed bump (the kind that are used for drainage) and somehow that had yanked the front wheel sideways, shearing off the bolts holding it on, causing the wheel to be ripped off and the drive shaft to be ground into the pavement. It was nuts! I don't know how on earth that happened- it had to be a million to one chances of that happening- but it was intense! We asked to help, but there was pretty much nothing we could do. It was memorable though! </div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-9323443796214030502017-05-02T11:37:00.001-07:002017-05-02T11:37:18.890-07:00Love this Samoan Ward<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This week was full of great experiences! We had an excellent baptism in the Ironwood Samoan ward for Brother Jimmy Vakatau. It was amazing to see how many ward members showed up to support him in this wonderful step that he was taking. It was also super inspiring to be able to feel the Spirit testifying of truth, even though a lot of the service was conducted in Samoan, which is obviously a language I do not speak. I truly have fallen in love with the Samoan people; they are a wonderful group of saints. They are so happy and all love the gospel so much. I am grateful that I get to serve in their ward and feel of their spirits. I hope I can at least spend a while longer in this ward and continue laboring with them to help bring souls to Christ. We have 5 recently-returned missionaries who are all so excited and helpful in teaching. We have been having them come out with us and will continue to do so!</div>
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We are also experiencing miracles in the Lasselle ward too! We received a referral for an A. Ford. We gave her the bible that she requested and taught part of the Restoration. We came back and taught the rest. That night she apparently chatted with someone on Mormon.org and was led to scriptures to read. From exploring the website, doing her research, and of course, reading and praying about the Book of Mormon, she knew, before our next lesson, that the Church was true. It was mind-blowing! I am so excited for her! Also, we did a church tour and it really helped her feel much more comfortable yesterday at church. She even brought her friend! She got along with her fellowship as well. My testimony of praying for and then totally expecting miracles has grown so much in the past 6 months or so. I really do fully believe that if you do all you can to be obedient and diligent in the work, and then ask the Lord for His intervention, fully expecting it will happen, you will receive it. Finding and baptizing is not like blindly throwing darts at a dart board and hoping they find the bull's eye, it is an act of faith that, if done properly, will always bring results. Baptizing is not a numbers game, it's about saving souls. April has been the most amazing month. The Lord has so richly blessed the areas that I have been and it has been a blessing to see so many people whom the Lord has prepared and led us to enter into the waters of baptism. This I think applies in so many other things. If, for example, I truly trust that I have the priesthood and that it is God's power and authority, than I can act in so much more faith when someone is sick and needs a blessing that will have a major impact on his or her life. That is just one example, but I hope that makes sense. My trust in the Lord's promises is so much more meaningful and I am forever grateful for that. I am excited to see what more miracles are in store!</div>
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Thank you! I don't think that I will be able to get it until Thursday because that's when the next time is that anyone is going down to the Mission Office. I kind of forgot that I was turning 22 until just a few days ago. Man, I feel old. I got my hair cut last week and the lady said my hair is very thick, so age isn't taking its toll yet!</div>
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Thank you for praying for my safety. I appreciate it. To put you at ease (if you were uneasy at all) the area I'm in is not that bad at all. Really all of the mission is safe. We just don't go certain places at night and we are fine. I really do feel like I've been protected on my mission-- I've even felt strongly that there are angels around keeping watch over us as we work. The only thing that scares me is that soon I won't have that protection any more! My patriarchal blessing also says that I'll be protected throughout my teenage and young-adult years of my life! I hope that doesn't mean that once I'm older I'm just going to be completely wrecked and left without protection! haha I'll just make sure I always wear my garments and keep my covenants. That's the best bet! </div>
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Also, I know this is kind of far down the road, but when I get home I'd like to fly into Salt Lake instead of Reno, that way I can see the whole family. Also, we will have to work out the logistics of how I'll get released and all of that. I think I have 3 weeks from when I get home until school starts. </div>
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I love you a lot! Thank you so much for all you do! Have the best week ever!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
<br />candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-69139660504072253992017-04-27T22:33:00.002-07:002017-04-27T22:33:47.426-07:00Sea Urchin for Dinner<div style="text-align: center;">
This week was another great one. Life as a missionary is always the best. It admittedly was a little slower than we would've liked, but we will do better this week and we were still able to see the Lord's hand a lot while we were laboring. </div>
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I've really come to enjoy calling people to repentance. I've become a lot more comfortable with doing it and being bold, but making sure that people know that I am doing it for their own good, not just to rebuke them or make them feel low. I enjoy it because I feel so much more like I am fulfilling my calling that I have been given and am doing the same thing that the prophets, or even the Savior would've done. I am inviting others to leave the things behind that are holding them back, and that feels good. One such instance was an inebriated man at a gas station who asked us if we could give him a ride back home. I apologized and said that we weren't allowed to since it wasn't our car. I then told him that there was no happiness in the can of alcohol he was holding and that he were better off drinking water. I invited him to stop drinking and change. He said thank you and gave me a hug (that's the closest to alcohol I've been on my mission!). I don't know what happened to him after that, but at least he was given the invitation to come a little closer to Christ.</div>
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I also learned that no prompting is too small. I was on exchanges with Elder Dew and we were out seeking with faith. We saw a car filled with teenagers parked. The smell of a certain unnamed plant emanated from the van like a fog. We waved to the occupants of the van and they waved back. I felt that we should go talk to them, but brushed it off because of the activity that they were involved in and because all of the windows were rolled up and hazy. We kept walking. A few moments later a girl hopped out and asked if we were "God-people". We answered to the affirmative. She said that she was really struggling and that a friend of hers, a 17-year-old girl, had just been shot and killed in a gang-type confrontation just down that street a few nights prior. She really wanted to come closer to God. We testified of the healing powers that Christ had for her and she agreed to meet with the missionaries and to come to church. It was incredible. As we walked away, I remarked that I was ashamed that I had ignored the prompting and Elder Dew mentioned that he had had the same prompting and likewise ignored it. I think it is incredible that we both experienced the same thing. It goes to show that the Lord really does guide this work and that we must do all we can to follow His will for us so we can help His children. I must do better at following the promptings I am given. I will do so.</div>
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As far as the eating of the raw fish, it went alright! I also ate raw sea urchin. I don't think I'll do that one again if I can at all avoid it. It wasn't awful though. But I did eat something this past week that caused me gastrointestinal distress, as dad calls it. I was kind of out if it for most of that day and just stayed in and slept it off. I'm all good to go now though!</div>
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The work is going alright! We need to pick some things up but once we do there will be many more baptisms! I have total confidence. </div>
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It was really cool to be able to go and see Norma Alvarado get baptized yesterday! I was able to see all of my old favorite members from the Jurupa ward and see some of the cool missionaries! That ward feels like home. It was so great to be back! That place is heaven!</div>
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I was thinking, what if we do some of my class registration when I skype home for Mother's Day? Or would you prefer not to? I understand either way!</div>
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I love you to the moon and back! You are the best!! Have the best week ever :)</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-70379974223704644132017-04-13T22:30:00.000-07:002017-04-13T22:30:15.678-07:00So Long, Jurupa!<div style="text-align: center;">
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We have had so much awesome success in this ward, and I will get to come back for the baptism of Norma A. (the Elders Quorum President's wife's sister) in two weeks. She is super solid and just loves learning! It's unreal being able to work with so many golden people.</div>
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I have so thoroughly enjoyed being in the Jurupa ward these past 6 months. It has hands down been the best 6 months of my mission. I will miss the wonderful members, converts and investigators that I worked with while I was here. I am very excited to be working in the Ironwood Samoan ward. That will be a lot of fun and I am excited to eat well and be surrounded by the legendary faith of the Polynesian people. I know it will grow mine!</div>
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So I am being transferred back to the Laselle Ward in Moreno Valley (the ward that I was in before coming here to Jurupa, for 4 1/2 months). I will also be covering the Ironwood Samoan ward!</div>
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I don't know my address there yet, but I will be at the mission office this Friday for a district leader meeting! You really don't have to send me anything, mom. I already have way too much stuff out here on the mission. But if you do end up sending anything I can pick it up then. Speaking of that too, I really don't need anything for my birthday. I will only have like 3 months left at that point and I already have too many books and things to worry about getting home. Plus, I get to facetime with you and dad just a few days after so that will be a great birthday present! I am excited to see you all again!</div>
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Also, Sister Turner's daughter Mallori Mickelson will be going up to Utah in June and she is going to be taking some of my stuff up there as well. I said I didn't know if you'd be there but if not she could probably just drop it off with Stacy for a little while. Just a heads up. You still have Sister Turner's number so don't lose it for that reason!</div>
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I get to eat Cafe Rio today! Blessed Sister Williams drove to get it for us today as a going away gift for me! How nice!</div>
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I really hope FASFA didn't lose a bunch of our info. That would be the pits!</div>
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I really enjoyed learning about the Savior this week in Luke 6:12-13. There it talks about how He went and prayed all night before choosing His apostles. If the Savior needed to spend that much time, sacrificing precious sleep, pleading for His Father in Heaven's guidance, even though He was completely without sin and undoubtedly had incredible amounts of revelation coming to Him, how much greater a need I have to spend time pleading to know the Lord's will in my life. The Savior was so incredibly humble, I need to do the same. I too can do nothing without my Father in Heaven, so why try? I should seek mountains (the temple) and to pray earnestly to God so I can make the best decisions for my life!</div>
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We had MLC this week and it was great! I also really really enjoyed getting to go back to Corona for the baptism of Maria S., with whom I worked a year ago! It was such a spiritual experience and I am so happy for her to have taken this step. It was also really cool that her husband was able to do it. I love Corona. I hope I can go back! </div>
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I am so glad that you enjoyed our little music video that we sent you! I thought it was a pretty funny idea but I'm glad it came out as well as it did! Will you save that video so I can see it again when I get home? haha We laughed so hard before and after the filming. I'm glad you had a good birthday and also got my card! I don't really know how to draw Birds of Paradise, but I tried! </div>
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I love you mucho! Have the best week ever! I love you and miss you more than you know!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-35769324136927122522017-04-04T20:53:00.001-07:002017-04-04T20:53:47.172-07:00The Big Baptism Event!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Conference was so great! We were able to watch all the sessions of conference. I really enjoyed it a lot. I realized how much more I have to work on. I really need to focus on loving others and striving to serve them more selflessly, not for any other reason than to glorify God. I also loved the doctrinal clarifications by President Nelson and Elder Bednar. They were fantastic. I loved the analogies given by Elder Sabin and Elder Costa's talk on becoming a member. When they announced a new Chinese Seventy, all 20 missionaries in the stake center looked at Elder Yang (from China) as if to see if they were related. It was pretty funny! </div>
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This week was a great one. We had a lot of very spiritual experiences between having General Conference, Multi-Zone Conference, the baptisms of the 4 Davy children, and the opportunity to go with Sister Milligan to the temple to do baptisms for the dead for her first time (at which Elder Drebot and I were also able to baptize one another for the dead as well). It has been such a spiritual week! I almost felt like a straw being attached to a fire hydrant: there was so much to take in spiritually. This was the first time that I've felt ancestors accepting the work that is being done and their gratitude. It was special to be able to do baptisms for the dead again after so long. I also loved how spiritual the baptism was when I looked over to see Danielle sobbing with joy to see her 4 kids be baptized by her husband. That touched me a lot, especially their son, who is severely autistic but received special permission from Salt Lake to be baptized with his family. I loved each one and I learned a lot from them. I took a lot of notes in my journal about the things I learned from the Spirit so that I can remember them. I am truly amazed at how much the Lord blesses us when we simply try our best to do His will, be obedient, and act on the promptings we receive.</div>
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I think what I learned most this week was the need for me to continue becoming more like my Savior, particularly in the way that He loved others. I read this week in Matthew 8:16-17 where it reads that He took upon Himself our infirmities. I have heard that a lot before but in the context of Him healing people of diverse diseases and ailments I was confused. I prayed for understanding and the Spirit taught me that He was quite literally taking these things from the people He healed, knowing full well that He would then have to experience everything that they were feeling, but to an infinitely more intense level. I was blown away by how much love that would take. How often do we do one or two nice things for someone but we bail out before we have someone "take advantage" of our kindness? The Savior did not do that. He simply offered to help others and allow them to find happiness and peace, even at the price of His own comfort. That is true love, and I want to exemplify that.</div>
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It was overall a great week! I loved it and I love being a missionary. We have transfers coming up here in the next week and I have a feeling that I will be leaving, which will be really sad. But I am grateful to continue serving somewhere else and find more people to teach and baptize. It is crazy how fast time is going! It's ticking quickly! </div>
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Here are pictures from the past week, including President and Sister Mullen kissing! (yuk haha), Danielle's baptisms for the dead, the Davy kids' baptism and when our former AP David Sy came and visited! It was a great week!</div>
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Love you to the moon and back! I hope your birthday is super awesome! I love you tons! </div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-8121780776575882522017-03-27T21:35:00.000-07:002017-03-27T21:35:31.705-07:00Temple-Going Converts! Yes!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This week was another great one! We were elated to hear the news that Jayce M. can be baptized with the rest of his family this Sunday (Jorde, Jakob and Camberlynn). That family is so special and is such a wonderful addition to the Lord's church. We are so thankful to have been able to have been trusted sufficiently by the Lord to teach these wonderful children of His. Danielle was confirmed this past Sunday and said that she felt chills completely overcome her as we had our hands laid upon her head and the blessing by Elder Drebot was being pronounced. I love confirmations; they are the best!</div>
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Also, we are hoping to have both Andrew Cruz and Danielle go to the temple this week! They have both received their recommends. It is so exciting!</div>
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We were able to find some very prepared people. Elder Drebot and I set a goal to have 3 baptisms in April and we had no one on date for April so we knew that we needed to do all in our power to be worthy of that blessing and then we needed to plead with the Lord that He would provide us with miracles to accomplish our goals. One that is worth mentioning was that we prayed very hard, and even fasted, for referrals to be given to us. That same day we received a media referral and also other missionaries who had previously served here told us to stop by previous investigators. We had members tell us to stop by people, such as less-active members and part-member families. It was such a blessing. The Lord does hear our prayers and is so merciful unto us!</div>
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As I was doing my personal study I was reading in Alma where the Anti-Nephi-Lehies decide that they would rather die than shed the blood of their brethren in self-defense because of the mighty repentance they had undergone. I was deeply touched by that. Do I have such thanks for the agony that my Savior went through in paying for my sins that I would rather die myself than re-commit those sins, even if many would say they were totally justified? That is truly being changed by the Holy Ghost and having no desire to sin. That is why Christ payed for our sins. When we justify ourselves in committing sins, especially after we have repented, we are openly mocking the Atonement of Christ. I don't want to ever do that. I want to have the commitment to the Lord that I would rather die than return to my own sinful tendencies.</div>
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I felt that this week I also came to appreciate the type of life Christ lived as I pondered what His ministry was like. He really can succor us in all things because He has experienced them. I'm thankful for that.</div>
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That is way cool about your experience with Music and the Spoken Word. I agree. I think it is way important to use the talents we've been blessed with. I think you are doing a good job of that. I think that is why I am dead-set on doing design as a career because I will be able to grow my talents and hopefully bless others' lives in so doing as well! I think you've done an excellent job of that as well!</div>
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I don't know if this is super gross to share with you or kind of cool but last week I got I really big blister (about the size of a penny) on my foot from playing Ultimate Frisbee for a few hours on Pday. It's healing up well but it is currently in the shape of a heart! So we know that in all of our pain, we can see the Lord's love :) haha</div>
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Wow! That is crazy that you were so close to us when you came down! I'm glad you didn't tell me. But I am glad that you were able to have fun and spoil Jesse and Julie. They are good kids. You sure do bless a lot of people's lives. I think you've had a far-reaching impact positively of people. I'm proud to call you my momma :)</div>
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How did the kids like Disneyland? The water park sounds like a blast! I think when I come back to visit I will want to go all of the attractions that everyone here is talking about (like the theme parks, LA, beach, etc.) since I've spent almost 2 years hearing about it but never getting to go.</div>
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How are the Smithsons doing? I really like that family. I hope they are doing well. Corey gets home just a little while after me, I think? How's his mission? Is Wesley married? I've met quite a few people throughout my mission that know the Smithsons! Tell them I say Hi!</div>
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You are the bestest mom ever! I love you to bunches! Have the best week ever! Enjoy conference and I will send you all the pictures of the kids getting baptized next week!</div>
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Love you!!!</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-51941579955301111082017-03-27T21:17:00.000-07:002017-03-27T21:17:24.418-07:00A Different Kind of Investment (From March 13th)<div style="text-align: center;">
That is so crazy how much water there is in Winnemucca! That is unreal. I agree, I think I've only ever seen the water that high on the bridge one other time. Is Rye Patch finally filling up again? Stay dry!</div>
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I am really really really excited to hear about Jose Romero. I just always remember him being the sweetest kid ever. I don't think he ever said or did anything mean. I am so happy for him. I really think he will do amazingly well on his mission! You should give him my email! I would love to get in touch with him.</div>
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This week was another great one! The weeks are really flying by! I think the highlight of the week was when Andrew and Madison and Scott M. all met with the bishop in preparation for the next steps they will be taking! Madison got her temple recommend so that she can now go do baptisms for the dead to redeem her dead ancestors; Andrew is getting ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood; and Scott is getting ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood so that he can help confirm his wife, Danielle, in a few weeks and baptize his kids! It is such a blessing to see all of the good things that are happening in the lives of those with whom we are working. I am so grateful to be able to be a part of it.</div>
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I have really come to know the Savior more as I have been studying consecration and the scriptures about Christ topically. I came to really understand that there is a difference between self deprivation on behalf of the Lord and devoting all of us to Him and His causes. When we do the latter, we are able to experience joy and become more like the Savior Himself, who gave up all in order to carry us and pay for those things that we do wrong. He invites us to follow Him, to carry our own crosses and to lose ourselves for His sake. If we do so, we will inherit eternal life and we will be changed into a more Christlike version of ourselves. I really came to see that consecrating ourselves to the Lord is a blessing that will allow us to achieve all that we wish. It is like investing: when we invest our money we are using it to attain something better (investing our money to get a house, car, etc.). When we invest our all to the Lord we are able to receive His all, which He has consecrated to us for our benefit. If we want to be like Him, we must take the steps that He took as well, which is a blessing to be able to do!</div>
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I heard a talk this week by Hugh Nibley about the difference between managers and leaders. I found it very interesting. I like the sounds of a leader much more than a manager. I think that President Mullen exemplifies a great leader. I hope that I can incorporate more attributes of a leader, especially a Christlike leader, and be less of a manager. Obviously Christ was the best example of a leader ever and we should try to be more like Him in all that we do. </div>
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I really like your photographs! I think that is awesome that you are taking the time to develop your talents! Keep it up! That is great! </div>
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I love you so so so much! You are definitely one of the blessings I am most grateful for! I appreciate all you do, which is a ton! Love ya! Have a great week!</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-42592813770953014502017-03-16T21:49:00.000-07:002017-03-16T21:49:14.453-07:00Weeks are Flying By Too Fast!<div style="text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvfk_4GTfO1BlJ9vFBvzQ62MUG0arzrN88uXD8fgw6PkQBK51DgVY-pDkpKvwjMd-QJokpj_5xVocUKD0ZyqFajB-jZ4fEip49BvNDvNohneNAIZlwzfAvGe2gpjyJzy7Gx16PyQov9E/s1600/DSCN3924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRvfk_4GTfO1BlJ9vFBvzQ62MUG0arzrN88uXD8fgw6PkQBK51DgVY-pDkpKvwjMd-QJokpj_5xVocUKD0ZyqFajB-jZ4fEip49BvNDvNohneNAIZlwzfAvGe2gpjyJzy7Gx16PyQov9E/s320/DSCN3924.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zone Conference</td></tr>
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I am really really really excited to hear about Jose Romero. He and I were never super close but I just always remember him being the sweetest kid ever. I don't think he ever said or did anything mean. I am so happy for him. I really think he will do amazingly well on his mission! You should give him my email! I would love to get in touch with him.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTw6xnYM186Be5M6Hor0iP8xk2lH3IQGEQgf0mriKZv5kc4xPG1Qwuh9pMU0DXQ2mBPDpNLZrKv93vhg2yHhl-8FU2HVWMsm1ujWX9DUNMlBeZZEz86jE1ezqE_zUo6ViK2QNkeL8scP4/s1600/DSCN3926.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTw6xnYM186Be5M6Hor0iP8xk2lH3IQGEQgf0mriKZv5kc4xPG1Qwuh9pMU0DXQ2mBPDpNLZrKv93vhg2yHhl-8FU2HVWMsm1ujWX9DUNMlBeZZEz86jE1ezqE_zUo6ViK2QNkeL8scP4/s320/DSCN3926.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This week was another great one! The weeks are really flying by! I think the highlight of the week was when Andrew and Madison and Scott all met with the bishop in preparation for the next steps they will be taking! Madison got her temple recommend so that she can now go do baptisms for the dead to redeem her dead ancestors; Andrew is getting ordained to the Aaronic Priesthood; and Scott is getting ordained to the Melchizedek Priesthood so that he can help confirm his wife, Danielle, in a few weeks and baptize his kids! It is such a blessing to see all of the good things that are happening in the lives of those with whom we are working. I am so grateful to be able to be a part of it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNckK6Nasr1ESPbgY1pQ6gegDFJu6KmWqZr7hiBaZKndvegFYCbBQqOY8Nqpawshd0arSCdPk9EctUsZYFSBHM5r8XZnIWLdCSN7ds24FAmRC8HWIBhqleLsEtfm9ZyadwrBEDA-AAi2s/s1600/DSCN3928.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNckK6Nasr1ESPbgY1pQ6gegDFJu6KmWqZr7hiBaZKndvegFYCbBQqOY8Nqpawshd0arSCdPk9EctUsZYFSBHM5r8XZnIWLdCSN7ds24FAmRC8HWIBhqleLsEtfm9ZyadwrBEDA-AAi2s/s320/DSCN3928.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have really come to know the Savior more as I have been studying consecration and the scriptures about Christ topically. I came to really understand that there is a difference between self deprivation on behalf of the Lord and devoting all of us to Him and His causes. When we do the latter, we are able to experience joy and become more like the Savior Himself, who gave up all in order to carry us and pay for those things that we do wrong. He invites us to follow Him, to carry our own crosses and to lose ourselves for His sake. If we do so, we will inherit eternal life and we will be changed into a more Christlike version of ourselves. I really came to see that consecrating ourselves to the Lord is a blessing that will allow us to achieve all that we wish. It is like investing: when we invest our money we are using it to attain something better (investing our money to get a house, car, etc.). When we invest our all to the Lord we are able to receive His all, which He has consecrated to us for our benefit. If we want to be like Him, we must take the steps that He took as well, which is a blessing to be able to do!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3Z0yAG-T6Az6zabdxD_RaazmpNig_IM_SUqF3OmMo-MlBT_GkWUJV6TaL-wSJMpyQDsZe274eNyHliTSIrvM7nIlhCT0A3TDFWbgJz12v7k_BSKUVkMzWBK4x_Pn90byuFkTSzMf8CE/s1600/DSCN3935.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3Z0yAG-T6Az6zabdxD_RaazmpNig_IM_SUqF3OmMo-MlBT_GkWUJV6TaL-wSJMpyQDsZe274eNyHliTSIrvM7nIlhCT0A3TDFWbgJz12v7k_BSKUVkMzWBK4x_Pn90byuFkTSzMf8CE/s320/DSCN3935.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I heard a talk this week by Hugh Nibley about the difference between managers and leaders. I found it very interesting. I like the sounds of a leader much more than a manager. I think that President Mullen exemplifies a great leader. I hope that I can incorporate more attributes of a leader, especially a Christlike leader, and be less of a manager. Obviously Christ was the best example of a leader ever and we should try to be more like Him in all that we do.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJaA5HQoKF_dKYB-T0jqyvbAk5Tj4PQRh906mWZZEqANAtTADrnzj9fjVWSpbo2RHz72KRT8ljW0yEU58xezgCWNbc2IfzOw5fCgGSnHoyjRezUyqu0jROcBYB7jAEOMqp0qs-PNnWBU0/s1600/DSCN3938.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJaA5HQoKF_dKYB-T0jqyvbAk5Tj4PQRh906mWZZEqANAtTADrnzj9fjVWSpbo2RHz72KRT8ljW0yEU58xezgCWNbc2IfzOw5fCgGSnHoyjRezUyqu0jROcBYB7jAEOMqp0qs-PNnWBU0/s320/DSCN3938.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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That is so crazy how much water there is in Winnemucca! That is unreal. I agree, I think I've only ever seen the water that high on the bridge one other time. Is Rye Patch finally filling up again? Stay dry!</div>
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Is there anything that I can do to help with FASFA? I seriously don't understand it one bit, but I want to help in any way that I can! It's crazy how difficult school stuff can be!</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-87704230861283026112017-03-11T20:55:00.001-08:002017-03-11T20:55:29.776-08:00So Pumped!<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so pumped that I got into BYU! </div>
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We are so pumped because Sister Ashenfelter and Brother Cruz (who got confirmed this week; it was sooo great!) are getting their temple recomends this week and we are planning a trip to go do baptisms for the dead with them! Danielle Milligan and all of the Milligan family are also doing great! She is on track to get baptized on the 19th of March and her kids on the 2nd of April! We also found 7 great new investigators this week, including Madison's parents (we are teaching them again tonight), the Ualotu family (they are former investigators who moved here from Eastvale about a year ago) and some others. We have really been focused on asking the Lord to lead us to those who are prepared and He has! We were enabled as we taught because on our end, frankly, it was a little rough, but the Lord allowed the Spirit to be there and teach them wonderful things in spite of us having weaknesses in our teaching.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYVDZOxH8cb4AK4zM-qZ8aKuCBhes8NMYIth0AmjHT09uMWmXoGx_OgKFQ5M1xk2whv5VGS6VoPQIYyqx6V-3zXGbckWImSfE77i8tuIo23fkDNlJmThQvN72t21ioI4ofBsFkdScYiM/s1600/DSCN3920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjYVDZOxH8cb4AK4zM-qZ8aKuCBhes8NMYIth0AmjHT09uMWmXoGx_OgKFQ5M1xk2whv5VGS6VoPQIYyqx6V-3zXGbckWImSfE77i8tuIo23fkDNlJmThQvN72t21ioI4ofBsFkdScYiM/s320/DSCN3920.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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That is so cool that Elders Zeng and Cornia made it home safely. I miss those guys a lot. They are the best!</div>
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I love you bunches! Have the best week!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-29091990661458215712017-03-02T22:09:00.001-08:002017-03-02T22:09:56.431-08:00Another Simply Awesome Week!<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgDZcBA5jRdQq9_6LIazr6nK7oYcEEFt7LK9mTPpoS7Xz6H1AovqxNtj9r0J9kv8E0xp-3DrgHNLBRZtTxB8bKa_QWr3BpRsc41w1mtFGYjeOHWrZu2mO2iWyGu02Rau4v2_DapBMlvM/s1600/2017+2+27+AJ+Mission+T+Shirt+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgDZcBA5jRdQq9_6LIazr6nK7oYcEEFt7LK9mTPpoS7Xz6H1AovqxNtj9r0J9kv8E0xp-3DrgHNLBRZtTxB8bKa_QWr3BpRsc41w1mtFGYjeOHWrZu2mO2iWyGu02Rau4v2_DapBMlvM/s320/2017+2+27+AJ+Mission+T+Shirt+%25284%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGPKDNIVq-Ru8_Rk_Uv21FhPPzgjnjxEZpvpfrBYQ_Kg6Czw4ZoAk0OVLwNI4oWV4Wh8Jbvh3k47atQDqAbf80uKrCrGDQyxSAWkOQf7sZCAMk890WSzt5_Fc5EYjLF-EqK15v6Z11CM/s1600/2017+2+27+AJ+Mission+T+Shirt+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyGPKDNIVq-Ru8_Rk_Uv21FhPPzgjnjxEZpvpfrBYQ_Kg6Czw4ZoAk0OVLwNI4oWV4Wh8Jbvh3k47atQDqAbf80uKrCrGDQyxSAWkOQf7sZCAMk890WSzt5_Fc5EYjLF-EqK15v6Z11CM/s320/2017+2+27+AJ+Mission+T+Shirt+%25285%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This week was simply awesome! We had Madison get baptized and confirmed and Roman get confirmed as well!</div>
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Sister Madison A. was baptized! It was the best service of my life. She is hands down the most prepared person ever! Tons of people came to show their support for her, including her non-member mother and father. They were deeply touched by the Spirit and the warmness of the members they felt. We are teaching her parents in their home tonight! At the baptism the only feeling that could be felt was that of joy. I will never forget that. She was confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and received the constant companionship of the Holy Ghost the next day by the laying on of hands. The Spirit seemed to be flowing in ever direction possible (from the ground, up above, inside of me, between members of the circle and even from her head!) as the blessing was given. The Holy Ghost could be felt as it descended upon her. It was so touching. Today she even texted us today that she had a very powerful experience as she was reading President Russell M. Nelson's talk and said she "definitely have felt the companionship of the Holy Ghost this morning". She is making tons of friends and is like a celebrity in our ward. It is so amazing to see someone grow so drastically in their love towards God in such a short amount of time. We are now working on getting her to the temple! Honestly, Sunday was the most joy I think I've ever felt in my life, and I know it all came because of Jesus Christ and what He has done in my life and the lives of others!</div>
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We are still teaching Danielle M.and all of her 5 kids! The whole family, including the dad, Scott, came to church on Sunday! They are so awesome and loved church. She is going to be baptized in about 2 weeks and her kids in a month. Such good things are happening!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGcavzS3HHFx-3AXG_MYzUmwcI9i3GQwz7SkRDykbSJbEMkDQ6E0AjFN5hxc4F9TXJAZ7xhcYMj0YnWJm5OivXJQtSsqd_RSDZtmLSqREg-zU-TKYDofU61_umJ1TUwruR9m7iBb-QhI/s1600/2017+2+27+AJ+Mission+T+Shirt+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqGcavzS3HHFx-3AXG_MYzUmwcI9i3GQwz7SkRDykbSJbEMkDQ6E0AjFN5hxc4F9TXJAZ7xhcYMj0YnWJm5OivXJQtSsqd_RSDZtmLSqREg-zU-TKYDofU61_umJ1TUwruR9m7iBb-QhI/s320/2017+2+27+AJ+Mission+T+Shirt+%25287%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mini-Zone wearing T-Shirts Elder Jackson designed.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqRvRTMzEV7gC96vTt0LuevmTdFd3xJHEhE9QCYhKk8RPnv-HjR8nLvLfvCbMKHMvPtCFDbBnHtk36FcPQaaoDbbhHGM5gWTF8d-WcVmZlQGKiJjwqGzuukOt1y-gOkvWoPTLD-cOvoSo/s1600/2017+2+27+AJ+Mission+T+Shirt+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqRvRTMzEV7gC96vTt0LuevmTdFd3xJHEhE9QCYhKk8RPnv-HjR8nLvLfvCbMKHMvPtCFDbBnHtk36FcPQaaoDbbhHGM5gWTF8d-WcVmZlQGKiJjwqGzuukOt1y-gOkvWoPTLD-cOvoSo/s320/2017+2+27+AJ+Mission+T+Shirt+%25288%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We had ward conference this week and it was an honor to have the stake leaders, including the Stake Presidency there this Sunday. The theme was from Matthew 13: the parable of the sower. President Jergensen talked about how he saw a huge magnolia tree fall on a house recently due to the copious amounts of rain and the strong winds. He said it really doesn't matter how big our tree of faith and testimony is, it can always fall if we are not constantly -daily- strengthening our roots and nourishing ourselves the devil will send storms into our lives that will eventually topple us. It coincided perfectly with what I was studying in the book of Alma about the people of Ammonihah who fell into apostasy bit by bit and eventually were so far removed from the Lord that they killed the saints and even tried to kill the prophets. They boasted that their city could not be destroyed, yet even in all it's greatness, it was left desolate and lifeless. We may think we are great, but the only true power comes from the Lord and unless we are constantly receiving it we will fall, just like that giant magnolia tree, and who knows what damage our fall may cause. I pray we all can daily nourish our roots and be like the 4 type of soil that the Sower sowed His seeds upon. Let us take root and bring forth fruit to our Lord!</div>
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We had President Mullen come out with us and it was the most fun thing ever! We taught Danielle's family and it was super spiritual. They have a young boy who loves to do the Dab dance, and so President Mullen did it with him! It was the funniest thing of my life. I love President like a father and I am so glad that he is my mission president. We also taught the Turners and Mickelson's with him and they loved the missionary challenge we extended to them!</div>
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We had transfers this weekend and I am so beyond happy! I am staying here for a 3rd transfer with Elder Drebot! That will make 6 months here in the Jurupa ward and 1 year in this stake! I love it. I would be so happy if I could stay here for the rest of my mission! It is really sad though, all of the Sisters I started my mission with are now home and so is Elder Zeng and Elder Cornia (two of my best homies). I feel like this last 6 months I won't know anyone! </div>
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Also, that whole flying bit doesn't sound fun. I'm glad that I'll be flying home during August when it's usually hot and dry with no weather. I think this is the longest I've ever gone in my life without being on an airplane, isn't that crazy! I'm so glad that you made it to the ground safely though.</div>
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I love you so much! Have the best week ever!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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<br />candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-67291473073948728402017-02-23T23:27:00.001-08:002017-02-23T23:27:37.032-08:00This Week Was Fantastic!<br />
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This week was fantastic! We were able to see so much success. The Lord is truly blessing us! Roman and Andrew were able to enter the waters of baptism and make a covenant with their Father in Heaven. Seeing children of our Father in Heaven choose to follow Christ and be baptized in the manner He was. The Spirit that was present at the baptism was unreal. The ward was so supportive- the Relief Society room was overflowing with people! The talks that were given were very loving (although not completely doctrinal). President and Sister Mullen also came to the baptism! I am so thankful that we were able to have the Lord bless us with these wonderful people to teach. </div>
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were able to teach people as prepared as them. I am also grateful that we were able to have two more investigators there whom we also would not be able to teach without the grace of God: Madison, who is getting baptized this Saturday at 2:00 pm, and Danielle, who is getting baptized the first Sunday in March! It is nothing short of a miracle! We are so grateful for the Lord's hand that has been in our lives this past few weeks. Also, we were blessed by the Lord to start teaching all 4 of Danielle's baptismal age kids! We also were able to start teaching a very promising father in a part-member family. Elder Drebot showed forth our faith and diligence in a minuscule manner and look at how the Lord has blessed us! The Lord is unfairly gracious to those who try to serve Him with all they have.<br />
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I was reading in Alma 12 this week and was struck by the descriptive wording of the way we fall into Satan's grasp. It used the word "encircling" in describing the chains that will encroach into our lives if we allow ourselves to be tempted by his subtle tactics. We must employ all caution in our lives so that we do not become his captive. Fortunately, we have the Holy Ghost and the light of Christ's atonement to guide us through and break the chains with which we are "encircled about" by. Satan will try to stop our progression on all fronts if he can get us to simply stop living the way God has asked. If he can get us on one thing, he can slowly get us on more and more. The power of Christ is stronger than all of that though; we can one day stand before God as changed people and look up at Him in full confidence that we have become clean through Christ's atonement and that we are free of the influence of the devil. We will be prepared to enter into eternal life with our Father and His Son. This knowledge is beautiful and it is great that we can share it!</div>
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We are so so so excited for the next few weeks! We are going to have so many baptisms here in the Jurupa Ward. The ward members are helping out so much and it is such a blessing. This is not the same ward it was when I got here. I think that this ward will continue to have the missionary fire for a long time! I hope and pray I can stay one transfer longer! I love it here so much. </div>
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The rain here was kind of bad, but nothing too crazy! We were just soooo bored sitting in the apartment. That night I had a dream I went home and it was the weirdest thing ever. I felt as if I had had a two year dream and then woken up and life was exactly the same as where I left off. I wonder if that is what it will be like!</div>
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Oh, check out Madison's blog post about becoming Mormon! It's so stinking cool!: http://jeanmachine97.blogspot.com/2017/02/becoming-mormon.html?m+1</div>
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She is the best!</div>
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I love you lots! have the best week ever!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-25384499712932573152017-02-15T20:59:00.000-08:002017-02-15T20:59:11.869-08:00Coolest Experience of My Life!<div style="text-align: center;">
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Those cakes are crazy! (from Roots Tech pictures mom sent).</div>
Are those pictures from Wells (of the flooding)? That is nuts! We've had light rain but not anything major. I don't know if there's anything big coming up soon. I remember that there was a YSA conference at ASU and Vai Sikahema was there with Chad Petersen, Thurl Bayley, Mitt and Anne Romney, Alex Boye and others. It was super cool! I remember learning a lot from it!<br />
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Speaking of FH, we had Madison start doing hers so that withing a week or two of getting baptized she will be able to go do baptisms for the dead. She is THE most solid person I have ever taught in my whole life! She's going to be the next Al Fox.</div>
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Wow, I have learned three great things this week: 1) I am glad "marriage/relationship counselor" is not in the job description of a missionary, 2) the law of chastity is such a blessing and 3) the Lord really does work through other people to accomplish the things He needs done when He needs them.</div>
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An experience with an investigator living with a boyfriend who is cultivating a desire to get baptized realized she needed to get married, separate, or not get baptized. It definitely built my testimony that living the law of chastity, all of the other commandments and having companionship inventory with your spouse or significant other is vital to a healthy and lasting relationship. I'm thankful for the many wonderful examples of couples who, conversely, do apply these things and have amazing and loving relationships that have lasted for decades and will for eternity!</div>
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Another investigator, Madison, felt prompted to go to a fireside in Redlands where an Apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, Elder Dallin H. Oaks, would be. She felt the Spirit so strong as he spoke and she was able to receive a witness that this church is the Lord's and this is His gospel. She said she felt as if there was no one else in the chapel and he was speaking directly to her. He answered all of the questions she had, especially the ones she was hesitant to ask. There was no coincidence that he came and the cards fell the way they did. The Lord knew full well that this Sister needed to hear that. He loves us and wants to help us.</div>
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I came to know the Savior more this week as I was reading through Jesus the Christ by James E. Talmage. On page 176 it talks about the woman at the well and how the Savior did all the work. He planted a seed in that city and everywhere He went. He was the Master Sower. He then allowed His disciples to come through and harvest them. That really hit me. It is amazing how the Lord prepares people and does so much to help them and then allows His disciples to enjoy the fruits of His labor as they harvest them and bring them into the fold. He does the hard part and allows others to receive the benefit. That showed me of His true selflessness. He really did all for us and yet He wants none of the applause. He literally did everything He did for others. I'm grateful for the work he's done in preparing people to hear the word of the Lord and has then allowed me to enjoy the fruits of His labors as I get to see them enter into a promise to serve Him and keep His commandments for the rest of their life and as He promises to forgive their sins and send the Holy Ghost to them; that is a selfless act on His end that I am so grateful for. Jesus Christ's character is amazing. His infinite atonement changes everything.</div>
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This Sunday (2/19) we will be baptizing Andrew and Roman. Next Saturday (2/25) we are baptizing Madison. The following Sunday (3/5) we will be baptizing Danielle! I am so beyond excited! This has been the coolest experience of my life! </div>
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They were cleaning out the old books from the ward library and I scored! I got Doctrinal New Testament Commentary by Bruce R. McConkie (all 3 volumes) for free! I'm so excited. I'm going to send them home too because I am not really supposed to read them on my mission but will plow through them when I get home!</div>
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Love you mucho! You are the best Mom ever! Happy Valentine's Day! </div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-78743217752071070552017-02-02T20:40:00.000-08:002017-02-02T20:40:13.242-08:00Did You Know the World Is Flat?<div style="text-align: center;">
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This week was another fantastic one! Man, it is so great to be a missionary. I love every minute of it. We are so beyond blessed. We have seen so much success! We had 4 wonderful non-members come to church this week!</div>
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Madison is progressing so well. She is easily one of the most prepared people I've ever seen in my life. We have been teaching her a tad over a week and meet with her about every other day. She has already almost finished 2 Nephi and loves it. She already considers herself a "Mormon" and stood up to someone who was Pentecostal who was telling her that the Plan of Salvation was false. She is loving all of the members and even says that we are an answer to our prayers (even though she is really an answer to our prayers!). She has already made so many changes in her life and said that she simply has no desire to do anything wrong anymore! Whenever she hears a bad song come on, she changes it; whenever she gets invited to hang out with old friends, she says no; whenever she is tempted to say something mean, she refrains. It is so cool! I'm so lucky and glad to be able to teach her! She is going to be baptized on the 26th of February.</div>
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Andrew, the Freemason we are teaching is also doing spectacularly well! He is loving church and was so grateful for the Plan of Salvation. He says it has changed his whole outlook on life. He is almost done with 1 Nephi and says he is really liking it now. He listens to it whenever he drives as well. He told us how much he felt rejuvenated after honoring the whole Sabbath day with his girlfriend's family. He's getting baptized on Feb. 19th.</div>
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Roman is doing great too! He's an awesome 11 year old. He loves church and loves us. He is so smart and really absorbs so much of what we are talking about. His mom (a returning member) seems to really like coming to church too! He's getting baptized on Feb. 19th!</div>
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Myrna and Denman are doing well too. They are loving how they feel as they are keeping the Sabbath day holy, reading their scriptures, and praying twice daily. They both indicated how much they love having the missionaries come over because of the Spirit that comes as well. That tickles me inside to hear!</div>
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I really came to know the Savior through reading D&C 19:15-20. I think I've probably read these verses 100 times, but they really sunk in this time. There really is "no other way nor means whereby man can be saved, only through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ (Helaman 5:9)". If we want to live with God again, we must repent; otherwise we must suffer- even as Christ suffered. There is no excuses we can make. Alma 42:22-24, 30 teaches us that without repentance we are fully left to the demands of justice. We cannot receive mercy without repentance and we cannot try to cover our sins. I feel so much more grateful for the mercy that is available to us through Christ's Atonement, who was willing to face and pay for the demands of justice simply out of love for us and the Father. I am grateful that we don't have to pay for our sins and that we can receive complete mercy if we allow the Savior to cleanse us, which is what He is begging us to do. We must simply humble ourselves and submit to His will so that we fully become changed. </div>
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We also had a stoned teenager tell us that God had told him that we should take a hit of his weed. We replied, "He most definitely did not". He asked us why God would put weed on the earth if He didn't want us to smoke it. Elder Drebot replied, "God put arsenic on the earth, did He want us to smoke that too?" Touche. </div>
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We also walked up to a guy who was working on his yard and blowing the leaves out of the grass. He said, "Me first: the world is flat." We at first thought he was joking and was going to just say something anit-Mormon to us and say it was just as preposterous as believing in our church. But no, he proceeded to talk for the next 15 minutes about a YouTube video he'd watched that proved that the earth was actually flat and the center of the Universe. He said the video uses "physics" to prove that gravity is a conspiracy and that everything we think is gravity is actually density (which is only a factor when gravity is in effect...?). He asked if a plane ever dips when flying around the world and he said that if you were flying around the world you'd be flying upside down if the world was a sphere (again...false). He said all the water would run off the ocean floor it the world was not flat (again...gravity accounts for that). All in all, this guy was bonkers but looked completely normal. It was so sad that he full-heartedly believed that the government had spent so much time and money to cover up the fact that the world is really flat. People are crazy! </div>
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I am so beyond excited! It was such a relief to hear that I made it in to the ASU ID program.</div>
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I still have my rain gear you sent me last year. I haven't really used it because it takes so long to put on. I just wish the shoes I had didn't soak up water like a sponge (the hole in the bottom probably doesn't help). I just don't want to buy new shoes with only 6 months left to go, ya know?</div>
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Wow, your adventure to Antalope Valley sounds crazy! That is so cold! I think I would have something go wrong with me in those temperatures. I haven't been in anything under 40 in close to 3 years, I think. I'm glad you survived. I agree, I think you need to take a warm vacay to get into some heat! Sorry to hear about your car giving you troubles though! That is really the pits. Do you think they did that just to wait until the warranty was up so that you'd have to pay for it? What kind of car are you thinking of getting? Are the Renegades those smaller ones? What about a Grand Cherokee? That is a little bigger. Did you like the Highlander? You should get a 4Runner if you want something bigger. They're nice. The Tacoma is like the best car out there, in my opinion :) haha But whatever car you get, make sure that get something sleek! After all, you are the coolest mom on the block! haha. So if you got a new car, I'd get the Highlander. Does dad just like the Pilot that much? haha. I was just planning on using that when I get home, but I'm fine with whatever. I'm just grateful that I've been able to use a car! Thank you! </div>
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Thank you so much for being the best mom ever! Love you tons! Have a great week!</div>
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Love,</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3468230792634565460.post-25492850459524180852017-01-23T19:56:00.000-08:002017-01-23T19:56:23.184-08:00Another Amazing Week!<div style="text-align: center;">
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You are right about the water! It has rained like I have never seen before in my life. It hasn't rained hard, but it has pretty much been constantly raining this whole week. Yesterday we weren't allowed to leave our apartment because of the flood warnings. All we went to was church and dinner. We apparently go 6 inches just yesterday alone. The hills here are like glowing green and there has been a ton of roads that have been washed out or are closed because they are flooded. It's been a lot of fun. I way like this kind of weather compared to sunny and hot. Although, my shoes are not waterproof at all so I wanted to let you know I am going to buy some shoes today that won't get soaked every time I walk in a puddle. My electric razor also is almost 100% dead so I am going to buy a new one. If you see some charges on my account, that is why! I will say, I am sure that the snow is a ton of fun! I can't believe how much has come. Stay safe!!!!</div>
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Tell Brother Hale I said hi. He is a great guy. I like him a lot and am grateful he was my leader. You are right about the leadership meetings being so spiritual you feel you'll burst. I've turned into a baby and tear up at a lot of them now. You just can't take me anywhere!</div>
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This week was yet another amazing one! We have seen so many miracles- it's unreal. I love being a missionary. I am grateful that we have two years to serve because it's two years worth of opportunities to see ways that we can learn and improve. I have really seen these past few weeks how I really am nothing. I, of my own effort, will never baptize anyone unto repentance or have any success in the work. This is the Lord's work and for too long I have been letting Elder Jackson get in the way of it. The trainings we received on the enabling power of the atonement of Jesus Christ, or grace, have really shaped the way I am doing this work. I am still working hard, just like I was before, but I am asking to be enabled and to be led. That has made all of the difference. The Lord really does fulfill all of His promises. As we've trusted in His promises and asked to be enabled the floodgates of the Lord have poured out upon us. I am speechless. I am so beyond grateful for all that He has done for me and for us as a companionship. Even though I still stumble and fall each day, He is, for some reason I can only attribute to love, still blessing us for simply trying and trusting. It has touched my heart immensely. I feel that the only way I can even come close to paying Him back is by doing as John directs in John 14:15 & 21: loving Him and showing that love by keeping His commandments. I've always been an obedient missionary, but obedience has no longer become a "have-to" but and "I want to" to that I can continue to receive these amazing blessings and feel the Spirit I have felt recently. I've been out close to 18 months now and I feel like I'm just now learning what I need to do to be a successful missionary.</div>
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So an example of these blessings that we are talking about would be a Madison. We received a call randomly indicating that there was a girl who was friends with a member family that had moved up to Utah a few years previous. She had gone up to visit for one of that family member's wedding as a bridesmaid. She was so impressed with the strength and longevity of LDS marriages; and the love and joy that she felt among friends and families who lived the gospel that she wanted to learn more. We called her the next morning and she asked if we could meet that night. We said of course! We called a member of our stake presidency, President Harris, and asked if his family's home would be available for us to teach there and they graciously said yes. When we got there, I just felt the Spirit confirm that she was prepared. She had previously attended Harvest (the mega church) and it didn't sit well with her. We started teaching the Restoration and the Spirit flooded the room. I'll admit, the lesson went longer than it should have, but man, it was so powerful! She happily agreed to all the commitments, especially being baptized on the 26th of February because she said that she's spent the last few years of her life living "her way" (after being victim to some horrendous stuff) and she saw that that wasn't working and she knew that the only way to find actual happiness was doing things the Lord's way. That touched me. It's true. When we asked her how much of the Book of Mormon she thought she could read, she said she thought she could read up to the Book of Jacob by Monday (today). The lesson was on Saturday evening. When she showed up to church 12 hours later on Sunday morning, she was a little scared and nervous, but felt good- that was probably from the fact that she had already read the entire book of 1 Nephi! I don't know any member that has ever read all of 1 Nephi in a night. She said it was so interesting. I was blown away. The ward was so kind to her and really helped her feel at home. </div>
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Now I did nothing to deserve this. We did not find her by our hard work or obedience. But the Lord, in His mercy, allowed us, as imperfect and unprofitable servants, to be able to teach one of His wonderful and very elect daughters. I am so thankful for the trust He has placed in our hands to do so and I hope to live worthy of continued blessings. I am so thankful that my heart has been softened and I have seen this change. I truly am nothing, but my God is everything and He is blessing us beyond measure because we are simply trying our best to be obedient to His commandments, working diligently and with faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and hope in the promises He's made us. That makes my heart joyful beyond all measure. I love the Lord and I love His work.</div>
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I have been forever changed by my experiences here and I am grateful that President Mullen been an instrument in allowing that to happen. I know he loves the Lord and you love us missionaries. </div>
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We also had a dope 11 year old in a part member family who is progressing, a Mason who is looking to convert and is dating an RM, and a dry Mormon who wants to convert from Catholicism, all come to church. It was a blessing! The work is going sooooo well here! It makes me beyond happy!</div>
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I love you and dad so much! How are the Jeronimos? Tell them I say Hi and I love them! Have the best week ever! Love ya!!!!</div>
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Your Elder Jackson :)</div>
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candiJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546894599945270612noreply@blogger.com0