The Epistle of Daniel the Missionary to the Filipinos - Chapters 6 & 7

In the sixth and seventh months, 2015 A.D.

In each apartment I've lived in the rent has been paid for by the mission and the bills have been divided among those in the apartment. Having us pay the electric and water bills help us learn to manage our use of these utilities, and helps us to be conservative. Water bills range from 200-300 pesos (or 5-7 dollars) for 4 missionaries for a whole month, and electricity is about 1,000-1,500 pesos (or 22-34 dollars) for 4 missionaries for a month. In my current apartment however there is a bill that must be paid on or before the 15th of every month. It's called "association dues".  It costs exactly 2,550 pesos (or 57 dollars) every month. It pays for the building security, the elevators, the pool, the basketball court, and the other things associated with living where we live. However, no one in my apartment wants to pay it, so I end up paying it every month. Although it is a reimbursable expense unlike the other bills. The mission understands that such a bill would place an undue burden on missionaries.

As a missionary, I learn and experience many great and wonderful things for myself, but I'm also blessed to learn from association many great and important things that I never had to struggle and endure myself. I've learned many lessons about leadership, even though I myself have seldom been a leader. I've learned how to rise above challenges that I've not yet encountered, and I've been blessed to learn from association, and rarely from experience, that wickedness never was happiness. So to my many associations I am greatly indebted. I am grateful that there are no bills for such associations, but if there were I would pay them rather than suffer myself to learn of all the pain.

I'm sure Satan is disappointed when we learn to do what is right by association. He intends for each of us to experience all of the pain and suffering that our neighbors experience. He truly desires that all men might be miserable, like unto himself. When we see our friend struggling because of a bad decision and we say in our hearts and commit to ourselves that we will never make the mistake they made we remove entirely that weapon from the devil's arsenal.

Here's a sports example. A curve ball is a powerful weapon of an astute pitcher, but only if the batter is not expecting it or has not seen it before. Either curving into or out of the strike zone at the last millisecond, this pitch can and has fooled nearly everyone who has seen it, at one time or another. If however, upon watching his teammate at the plate, a player notices a variance in the pitcher's delivery of his curve, as compared to his other pitches he has indeed "removed this weapon from his arsenal". Even if this player has not yet taken a pitch from this particular pitcher he knows how to predict, and thus how to avoid, the pitfalls of this pitch. This knowledge alone will not save him, but if he acts on this knowledge and is watchful and mindful he will not be deceived.

How many times does a mistake have to be repeated before we resolve and commit to avoid it. The answer is way less than 1. If we are truly watchful God will give us many chances to watch the 'pitcher' before our plate appearance, as well as after. Our Father in Heaven intends for us to learn some things from experience. A batter will not be worth his weight in rice unless he's had many personal experiences in the batters' box. But let us all be grateful for the things that we are blessed to learn from association, and not seek to experience every pain of soul, and every sin, in our ignorance forgoing the blessing of eyes that see and ears that hear.

 * * * * * * * *

This week we had a really cool activity called Flight 2015. It wasn't a real flight, but it was a simulated flight that ended with a simulated crash after which all of those involved were taken to a room and taught about the plan of salvation, and where we go after we die.

Four of our investigators came to the activity. There were about 100 people that attended, some members, but many non-members. It was really well planned out, and it was all in Tagalog which was awesome because sometimes they speak too much English at our church meetings and some of the investigators don't understand any of it. I used to fall asleep when they spoke Tagalog in church, but now I can understand most of what they say, and I stay awake easily in church.

Anyway, after the plane crash and the classes about where we go when we die, and the rest of the plan of salvation, there was a Q&A portion, and the investigators asked questions which we as missionaries took turns answering. I only had to answer one question and there weren't many questions asked, but the whole atmosphere at the activity was celestial. It even made me ponder about the next life, and our purpose here.

When one of our investigators asked questions about baptism and joining the church I was surprised and happy. I didn't know that those were even on her mind. We have only taught this investigator 3 times, and we haven't given her a baptismal date yet.

I know that the Lord is preparing people and that the gospel is true, maybe the time will come when I won't be surprised by the miracles of missionary work, but maybe not.

* * * * * * * *

I have to admit, there were more long emails than I had time to read today, so I apologize if there was something you requested or asked me about because I haven't yet read them. I've saved them to this computer and I will print them out, but if you have an urgent concern or question send it separately in a small email. But don't stop sending those long emails. I love reading those, and I read all of them.

I remember a few weeks ago I was worried that I was being forgotten. I was worried that I'd been away from my family and friends for so long that I was pushed further and further into the back of your mind, and further down on your list of priorities.

But now I've begun praying about everything and worrying about nothing.

Try it. It works.

And I'll tell you more about my experiences next week. The time is far spent.

* * * * * * * *

I'm very grateful for all of the things that have been happening and I feel like I should share some of those things with you.

1. Investigators at church - A few weeks ago we were struggling with getting anyone to come to church. We tried over and over again inviting people to church, and even offering to pick them up. Even showing up to pick them up. Occasionally that resulted in them coming to church once, but then they wouldn't come the next week. The people we were trying to get to church were mostly primary age investigators, and we seemed to be hitting a brick wall. However, just more than a month ago we met Elizabeth Dela Pena, and she's been to church 4 times in a row now. To our surprise she has brought a new investigator to church each time. The first week it was just her, but then it was her and her son, then her and her son and her aunt, then she brought her older son to a baptism last Saturday, and yesterday she brought both of her sons and her husband to church, and they stayed for all 3 hours. Sister Elizabeth was someone we just met while we were proselyting. I know that very little of her progression in the church is due to the things that we've done. The Lord prepared her to hear the word.

2. Overwhelmed with food - Every week we have 2 set dinner appointments. One on Sunday nights, and one on Wednesday nights, and on top of that we usually get fed some sort of snack every day. Sometimes a whole meal, and sometimes more than one. If you've been praying for me to be well fed then you're prayers have been answered.

3. Stress investigators - Some of our investigators just seem to add stress to my life and don't really progress. They progress just enough that I feel like we need to help them, but they don't do the hard things like come to church on their own, or pray with real intent. There were about 7 or 8 of these kind of investigators in my area last week, but I found out last Sunday that 4 or 5 of these investigators don't actually live in my area. We thought they did, and we taught them as if they did. They actually live in the Zone Leaders' area. They gladly accepted them as new investigators, and maybe they can help them turn their lives around. So far, I still haven't seen them at church, but now the stress is off my shoulders. :)

Wish I could say more, but this is the substantialness I can muster right now. :)

* * * * * * * *

DANIEL'S FAMILY AT HOME

The Epistle of Daniel the Missionary to the Filipinos - Chapter 5

In the fifth month, 2015 A.D.

Thanks for all the emails, and for those of you that didn't send me one, thanks for your prayers on my behalf, and for those of you that didn't pray for me, thanks for at least reading my emails, and for those of you that don't read my emails, I'd like to say "You're the kind of people Moroni was talking about in Alma 60:14", but I would never say that.

It's been a great week, and I've really enjoyed this new area in Pasay 3rd Ward. The members here are incredible, and they love working with us. And in my first 5 days in this area there were 3 family home evenings that we were invited to. 

But sadly, I'm going to be transferred again on Wednesday. This will be my shortest time ever served in an area by far, as you can see in this chart and illustration:

Area:    Days:

1          126   ]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]

2          168   ]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]

3          158   ]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]

4          10     ]]

]  =  5 Days

I have a lot to do now that I'm transferring. I have to pack my bags again and say goodbye to all the members I just met. I wish I could stay longer, but I actually had a feeling that I would transfer. I'm excited for a new area and companion. It's weird to imagine, but the area I transfer to could be my last area..

I'm trying to remember the things that I've done this week, but I can't stop thinking about transferring.

Elder Reupta and I haven't taught many lessons in this area, but we've spent a lot of time with the members. I adore the members here. The Pestanas family is one of my favorites, they feel like my brothers and sisters already. The Driz family is similar, and the De Dios family is very much the same.

The reason that I love these families so much is because I was their missionary, for however short a time. Being a missionary would be pointless without the people that we teach. So think to yourself who's missionary you are. If you share the gospel with anyone you could become or may already be their missionary. 

I had an experience in my second area regarding my first area. I was in Roxas and far away from my first area in Bonifacio (part of Manila) and one P-day I received an email from an investigator in my first area. Her name is Gizelle Salas. No one in her family was a member of the church, and we had visited her a few times and she seemed excited to listen, but her family was generally absent during these lessons, and she was only able to come to church 2 times, about a month apart. I was hoping she would be baptized but it seemed like something that would not happen at any time in the near future. 

The email I received informed me that Gizelle was baptized. The day she was baptized was 4 weeks after I left the area. I still don't know what changed or why she was baptized so soon after I left because she was not coming to church when I left, I was so happy about the whole thing that I didn't care to ask. I was her missionary, and I scarcely knew it. I didn't know that her heart was listening as we taught her. 

It's difficult to know who is truly listening and who will be changed based on the things you share with them. I was blessed to find out about the baptism of Gizelle, and with all of the people that I've taught and talked with about the gospel it is naive to think that Gizelle is the only one who has since accepted the gospel and been baptized. She is merely the first one that I found out about. 

So if you've had a chance to share even a piece of the gospel with a friend or invited a co-worker to be taught by the missionaries or given a Book of Mormon to anyone, thank the Lord that you've had such an opportunity. You might not hear the sweet story of the conversion of the few that were listening in this life, but those people we greet you in the next life with open arms and will forever be grateful that you were their missionary.

Love,

-Elder Southwick

* * * * * * * *

I really have no idea where I am. I know it's called Mandaluyong, but I haven't seen a map since I got here. I don't know where our area is in relation to the Church, I don't know where our apartment is in relation to either, and I don't know where we are right now. I just know it's called star mall. 

My new companion is Elder Claro, and he is Philipino. I've been following him around for a the past few days. He knows where everything is somehow. I think he has a map in his head. I could have him explain it to me, but he would probably just confuse me.

I'll have more to talk about next week. The Detros and Milan family will likely be brought up. They're some investigators we're teaching, and they're quickly becoming my close friends. I don't really miss my old areas, I'm happy to be serving here in Mandaluyong, and I was also very happy to be able skype with my parents and adorable siblings. They're all so big now. 

* * * * * * * *

This week was awesome, and it was mostly because of the new investigators that we had. We had 13 new people listen to our message this week. Admittedly, none of them came to church, but some of them wanted to and were just unable to do so. I was hopeful that they would come to church anyway, but I understand the setbacks that they're facing. Some of them have no one to go with them and are too young to go by themselves, and some of them are single mothers that are almost literally too busy to come to church on Sunday, but we'll work on building their faith. 

I want all of them to come to church because I care about them so much. I wish I could just rent a van and drive them all to church each Sunday, but that would be cheating, and they would likely stop coming to church the moment it required a sacrifice from them. This was also a problem I faced in Palawan. Many many people want to come to church, and many of them say that they would if it was closer. "I'll go to church again when they build one that's closer. No one likes a long walk to church, and no one wants to pay 15 pesos for themselves and each one of their kids to take a jeepney or trike or bus to church. But such sacrifices are those that make strong leaders, and strong testimonies.

I remember one lesson on Tuesday earlier this week, our first lesson after the Zone Leaders told us to sing at each appointment. It was a roomful of soon to be new investigators that had never been taught before by missionaries. After we sang Families Can Be Together Forever, I was blessed to give the opening prayer. I prayed for these people that I barely knew and I prayed that their family would be blessed, and when I finished the prayer I lifted up my head and I felt a warm peace. It was as though we were not alone, abut among all of us there was someone else. At that moment their home was a holy place, and remained so as we taught them about the importance of families and the gospel. It was the first time in months that I saw an investigator cry. As they each shared about why their family is important to them a mother, whose own parents had separated, expressed her deep desire that her family would always be together.

Experiences like this really make it easy to love being a missionary. I care so much about Cherry and her family. It hurt my heart to hear about her ‘broken family’ and I felt the truthfulness of the words in Preach my Gospel “Satan is attacking the family on many fronts, and TOO MANY families are being destroyed by his efforts.”

Now, raising a family is not easy. It wasn't meant to be. A journey of a thousand miles is generally not fun, but if you press forward and lean not on thy own strength, and never give up then you will be infinitely stronger and more blessed than those who were to afraid to start the journey, or wimped out in the midst of it. 

Be faithful. Endure. Don't compromise years of sacrifice by giving up now. God is at the helm. He will overrule for your good. He has promised us angels on our right and on our left to bear us up, and he always keeps his promises.

I know these things are true. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. 

* * * * * * * *

I've received many emails from some of you about how you are dealing with life's challenges. I hope you know that I'm learning things from your experiences, and your examples of enduring to the end. Some of you feel alone in this effort. Some of you are surrounded by those that love you, but may still feel overwhelmed by the things that life throws at us. I can say us because I'm not ignorant to the presence of challenges in my life. In fact, that couldn't be much further from the truth. But the belief that we are alone in our trials or that there is no relief from such also could not be further from the truth.

If you have ever read John 3:16, and understood it, then you know that a gift was given, a sacrifice was made, and a price was paid, all that we might not perish. Our loving father does not intend for us to perish to any degree. He weeps when we suffer, and offers relief to those who may be wandering in darkness and pain. The trials that he gives are calculated to bring enough sadness to humble us, enough experience to teach us, and enough difficulty to strengthen us. None of these trials are meant to destroy us or cause us to perish. He in His infinite wisdom and through His grace we will always be able to bear them.

As he did with the people of Alma when they turned to Him, as recorded in the Book of Mosiah, He will "ease the burdens...that even ye cannot feel them upon your backs"

The Epistle of Daniel the Missionary to the Filipinos - Chapter 3

In the third and fourth months, 2015 A.D.

Recently my mission President asked each of us to be clean. This seems like a simple request, and it ought to be, but I have been well acquainted with much of the filth that exists in the world, as many of us have. As fun as playing in the mud may seem at the time, it makes you dirty, and it doesn't come out with a light rinse. I've been on the earth for many days, and I've not avoided all the pitfalls, but I can trace back a long line of good things that I've done.

Many days indeed have passed since, as a young man, I applied for college, and as a newly ordained elder, gave my first priesthood blessing, and as a newly called missionary, taught my first lesson, and as a full-time missionary baptized my first family. Indeed, many days have past since I learned to be patient. But I'm not done doing good or making any changes I should to my life and character.

With the landfall of March, I hope to be a new person. As children of Our Heavenly Father we are all intended to progress. If a day passes and we have not grown or learned or changed, even by small degrees, we are not fulfilling the measure of our creation.

God will, over the course of our lives, give us many chances to learn, grow and change ourselves when needed. We call them trials. Although, God would never inflict harm on us, he knows that all the love in the universe would never foster the "mighty change of heart" or the "broken heart and contrite spirit" that is required to return to live with Him, so he allows Satan to test and try us. 

Satan is real. Bad things can and do happen to wonderful, amazing people because there is opposition. He would love for us to believe otherwise. His work and his 'glory' is to destroy us.

Read and re-read 2 Nephi 4:16-35, and ponder on Nephi's words. Satan hates every one of us, more than we can understand, don't give place for him in your mind or in your heart.

And even all this by itself is not enough to come off the conqueror. In addition to all of this we must cling to our Savior with all diligence. Learn of Him, embrace Him and follow Him. He who is said to be the "Light of the World" is indeed the only source from which darkness flees. 

Let us not sit in darkness, hoping, by and by that the darkness will flee. But let us labor in seeking for the Light, that we may be ready.

Time flies on wings of lightning, we cannot call it back. Work while the sun is radiant. Work for the night draws nigh. As Jesus Himself said "I must do the works of Him that sent me while it is day, for the night cometh when no man can work."

* * * * * * * *

Before my mission I did everything possible to avoid being labeled as childish, and rightly so, but we use the word 'childish' in such a way that it seems we have forgotten the Savior's words about the attributes of children. 

I happen to be very fond of children and seem to understand them on a level that is not very common. I enjoy talking to them, even when they cannot yet speak their mind the way they would want to I listen with all my heart, and look for ways to communicate. I then help them solve their little problems which seem huge to them. It brings me great joy when I can see in their eyes that they realized I helped them. 

I've had many such experiences on my mission which was not something that was mentioned in my call letter, at least not specifically. However, they are treasured moments that help me remember that we are all part of God's family and he blesses us when we serve each other. This service can take many forms and has no age limit.

One of these experiences was last Saturday at a church activity. It was the annual Relief Society activity, and there were hundreds of faithful sisters and their husbands in attendance. There was dancing and singing and food from every corner of the Philippines. I would have tried all of it, but most of it was gone when I went back for seconds. Anyway, there were many people there that I had never seen before. Members from other wards and other stakes, and many of them brought their kids with them. 

About half way through the activity I found myself just outside the doors of the cultural hall where the activity was being held. I was glad to be outside because of the hosts of people crowding the hall. As I was standing there I saw a little girl. She couldn't have been older than 2. When I looked at her, her eyes met mine and she had a distressed look on her face. I thought it was because she was not accustomed to seeing tall Americans, but as I continued to look at her with a questioning look on my face she locked her eyes on me and began to walk towards me. I was confused. I thought she was scared of me. In fact, I thought that was the very reason for the look on her face, but she approached me.

As she drew near she reached out her hand and I took it in mine. I was astounded as she then led me by the hand into the cultural hall, still distressed and upset, but now hopeful that I would help her. By this point I was very confused. I tried asking her questions to no avail. She didn't say a word. But as we entered the activity another member recognized her and noticing her distress picked her up. 

This member then explained that he would take her to her mother. Then he thanked me. I realized then that she was alone and looking for her family, and no one had taken notice of her, until I saw her, and somehow she saw something in my eyes that led her to think that I would help her. She walked to me, a stranger, and without words I helped her. I don't feel as though I really did anything. She led me, she walked to me, and she discerned my goodness and I was glad to be there for her long before I understood her problem. I was there to help.

I don't know her name. I don't know her family, I couldn't even guess what ward she's from, and I will likely never see her again, but sweet opportunities to help the Lord's little children are precious to me, and I will remember her. I will remember her FAITH when she saw me and believed I would help. I will remember her TRUST when she grabbed my hand with her tiny one and did not doubt that I was good, and her HOPE when she pulled me along not knowing where to go or how to her problem would be solved.

If you spend enough time with children you will begin to admire their childish attributes of trust, love-unfeigned, humility and faith. (just to name a few) It is one of my goals to become as a child in all such ways. When I grow up to be a man I want to be submissive, meek, patient and full of love. Even as a Child.

I know that I am a Child of God, and I pray that my age and status and pursuits never interfere with that knowledge, and same to you. :)

Mahal kita kapatid

-Elder Southwick

* * * * * * * *

2 weeks ago I had been in Pasay 4th Ward for 5 months, and I had taught hundreds of lessons, and talked to hundreds more people, but had no real success. I didn't view my efforts as wasted, knowing that I had been doing what I could, but I had come to the realization that a baptism was something that would have to wait until my next area. 

Then the sister missionaries told us that there was a family they were teaching that might actually live in our area, so we tried to contact that family. We then found out that one of their daughters had a scheduled baptismal date for April 18, and it was going to be our baptism. The diligent sister missionaries have taught Juliz 34 lessons in the last 4 months trying to prepare her for baptism. She was baptized on April 17th and by her choice I baptized her. She was confirmed on April 19th and I confirmed her. It was awesome, and now this 9 year old girl that I met less than a month ago is like a sister to me. She is so sweet and I hope I can remain in contact with her forever. 

I can truly testify that God's timing is not the same as our timing, but now I see that not as a reason for patience, but also a reason for hope. Even when I thought all hope was lost, and I thought there was not any time left, the Lord stepped in and showed me that He can do anything with any amount of time.

I'm grateful for the sisters that taught Sister Juliz Naigan, and for the chance to be such a big part of her life. I'm often surprised at the love Jesus offers me; confused by His timing, but humbly accepting of it.

I love you guys,

-Elder Southwick

* * * * * * * *

I'm happy to report that my companion and I are still together and still getting along great, and last Friday, 2 weeks before transfer day my companion got a call from the Zone Leaders and they informed him that we were being emergency transferred to a new ward the next day. We're still in the same apartment, and we're still companions, but Elder Reupta and I are no longer assigned in Pasay 4th Ward, but have moved to Pasay 3rd Ward.

It's such a close transfer that our house is still ideally positioned to work there every day. One major difference is that Pasay 3rd meets in a different chapel.

However, as a stake they're having a volleyball tournament, and there was a game the day we were transferred. So on Saturday when we went to the chapel to participate in a Ward Family Home Evening, we saw the teams that were playing: Pasay 4th Ward, against Pasay 3rd Ward. My companion and I really didn't know who to cheer for. We sat with Pasay 4th, but we didn't cheer very much, aside from the occasional "Go Pasay". I didn't know what else to say.

So, after 3.7 transfers in Pasay I was preparing for the inevitable transfer to a new area and a new apartment, and to be assigned a new companion, I thought I knew what the future had in store. I thought I would be transferred on transfer day, but I guess that would be too predictable.

In other news, I finished the Book of Mormon again yesterday. It seems to get shorter and shorter. Alma is always exciting, and Moroni is a bit depressing. I'm haunted by chapter 9, but thank goodness for chapter 10. It makes me feel less alone when I think of what Mormon and Moroni went through. They witnessed the destruction of their own people, and were forbidden to preach unto the people because of the hardness of their hearts. They had distanced themselves from God so much as to obscure their view of good and evil. They exemplified the doctrine that the Spirit does not always strive with men. The wonderful gift of the Spirit of Christ is given to every man, that he may know good from evil, but even this sweet gift can be driven away by pride, and contention, and war.

I'm going to do all that I can to ensure that the Spirit does not cease to strive with me. I will stand in holy places and be not moved, and I will let charity fill my heart and mind, and I will follow the example that Jesus set when he said: "For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed, but my kindness shall not depart, neither shall my covenant of peace be removed."

I'm trying to be like Jesus, I'm following in His ways.

-Elder Southwick

The Epistle of Daniel the Missionary to the Filipinos - Chapter 2

In the second month, 2015 A.D.

Your many emails are a pleasure to read and ponder. You are all very dear to me no matter where you are at this time. I haven't seen many of you for more than a year, and you might be happy to know that I'm not the same person I was.

I've changed in many ways, but you probably notice them more than I do. Especially because I'm too busy to really pay any attention to myself. I'm really enjoying missionary service, and I'm looking forward to interviews with the mission president this Wednesday. I'm super excited to see my very first recent convert family go through the temple to be sealed. That will likely happen in the middle of March, which is getting closer all the time.

I have not always been as obedient as a missionary ought to be, or as a child of God ought to be, but I've tried to cultivate in myself an attitude of exact obedience. In last First Presidency Message Thomas S. Monson said "the greatest single lesson we can learn in mortality is that when God speaks and His children obey, they will always be right." I've tried to convince myself of that truth so that I will have the strength and the tenacity to be exactly obedient no matter what. All of the excuses become meaningless as I realize that the Lord cannot be wrong, and his guidance through prophets and inspired leaders is always given with our best interest in mind, even when we don't understand His ways, they are still right.

Now, on to the story of this week.

I've been rejected many times before. Knocking on doors rarely brings success even if it's a familiar door. If someone does answer the door, they usually have an excuse ready. Some common ones are "they are sleeping"; "they just got home"; "I just woke up"; "I'm busy"; "I'm Catholic"; "I was just leaving" and many others. Some are more understandable than others, but even the lame excuses can keep us from teaching people. So I was not harshly disappointed when, upon visiting his house on Sunday, an investigator of ours answered the door and said he was about to leave and take his family somewhere for dinner. My companion and I were, understandably, understanding of his situation, especially considering that we had neglected to call of text him or in any other way inform him of our coming. So we left with the promise that next time we would at least text him first to see if he's available.

Not even five minutes later, having walked a good distance from his house, he called us on the phone and told us to come back. He said he changed his mind. When we got back there he said that the word of God is more important than his plans to go out with his family. He invited us in and openly apologized for turning us away. It was probably the most appreciated apology that I've received on my mission. He probably didn't know that there have been hundreds of instances in my mission when I have been rejected, dismissed and sent away from others with much less valid excuses, but Bernie, out of the goodness of his heart told us to return and apologized.

After that we prayed with him and taught him about prophets. Throughout the lesson he agreed with the doctrines we taught him, and towards the end declared "I believe the things you've told me" I'm am hopeful that he will come to church this week and become truly converted to the truth that he so deserves. I won't forget this man, and neither will God forget those who call to Him, no matter how oft or how crudely you have rejected Him.

* * * * * * * * * *

First off, I will have a new companion on Wednesday. I think his name is Elder Harera. I'm excited. I love Elder Seculles, but I'm excited to have some changes. Also, one of my kabahay is my dating kasama sa MTC. I'll let you know how that goes.

But this last week we talked to a lot of people trying and trying to find someone to teach, and mostly we were unsuccessful. One day this week a member worked with us, but he's leaving to serve a mission later this week, so he probably won't work with us again. We did however, find some other members that are willing to work with us later this week, and I'm excited for that. My companion and I tried to share the gospel with many people, but only 11 kids came to church this Sunday, and 9 of them for the second time. I don't mean to be pessimistic, I would just be much more excited if their parents would come too, or if some of the other people who said they would come actually came. I do love those kids though, ​and they do enjoy coming to church.

It makes me feel like I'm doing something right every time I see them and realize they wouldn't know anything about the church if we hadn't introduced it to them.

If you don't mind, keep them in your prayers. Many of them want to get baptized. Pray for their parents to accept the gospel that they might see all of the blessings of the gospel as families. In this picture there are 5 different families, and there are more that want to come, but aren't allowed to. Pray for their parents to open their hearts and their homes. I'll do all I can to show them through their children that the gospel blesses families.

I know you weren't expecting for me to ask you to do something, but prayer is easy and it brings miracles.

I also learned in Gospel Principles class that if you don't feel like praying, you should pray until you do. I've had to do that before. It's humbling.

* * * * * * * * * *

I've had many interesting experiences this week, but I think I'll start with the most recent one. While reading through my emails I was surprised to see an email from a member in my first area. What surprised me even more was what the message contained. I found out that the mother of the family that we baptized in my first area, has abandoned her kids, and thus they will not be sealed in the temple next month.

It's hard to receive news like that. It makes me doubt my past effort in teaching them, and my current effort in praying for them. Did I not pray for them often enough or earnestly enough? Did I not do my part to help them stay active? I promised them that I would come to their family sealing and now I can't keep that promise. I love them. Did I not show that? What have done? What have I not done? 

I'm reminded of a scripture in D&C 18. Verse 16 reads: "..if your joy will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me in the kingdom of my Father, how great will be your joy if you should bring many souls unto me!"

To me, it could also be said: "..if your pain will be great with one soul that you have brought unto me that fell short of the kingdom of my Father, how great will be your pain if you should bring many souls unto me and they still fall short!" 

There were 8 hopeful souls, anxious, and preparing to be sealed as one. They were on their way... I'm not too upset about it, but I am hurt by what happened.

Anyway, in other news, yesterday we were visiting and picking up people to go to church. Our first 3 planned visits didn't happen. They were either gone or busy, but then I got the idea that we should pick up Sister Marinel, and when we got there she was waiting for us. 

 

We took her and went to pick up the kids that have always been willing and excited to come to church, however, upon our arrival none of them were ready yet, and some said they didn't want to come. 45 minutes later only 3 of them were ready to go, and after an hour 5 of them were completely ready to go. So we left with just the 6 of them, and I was happy, I know that it's not easy to go to church every week and sacrifice that time, and I was proud of the kids that had decided to join us. We all got on a jeepney and went to church. We dropped them off in their classrooms and went to our class. 

However, after 30 minutes a member told us to come out and see something. We got up and went out the door, and saw 4 of the kids that we left in our area standing in front of us. The children then explained to us that they had walked to church on their own. This surprised me and confused me, but it made me really happy at the same time. I hope their parents knew that they did that. 

After the classes, for the first time ever, they all sat in their seats and were generally reverent for all of sacrament meeting, even though I was not able to sit with them for most of the meeting because I had the surprise assignment of playing the piano for the whole meeting. It was surely memorable. 

So despite all of the ups and downs of missionary work, the ups are always the most memorable, and the successes are the easiest to see. My mission has had disappointments, but for the most part I don't remember them. I remember the moments when everything went right.

* * * * * * * * * *

It's been 8 days since I last emailed any of you, and for many of you it's been even longer. I could send a mass email to everyone I know, but I really consider each and every one of you before I add you to the send list. If it's been a while since you've received an email maybe this email has something in it that's just for you.

It's been 4 months since I've had a baptism, which may seem like a small drought, but in this mission we're expected to have about 1 baptism each month and the standard is actually 2 each month per companionship. I don't feel like a failure, I've baptized before in my mission, I'm just wondering if maybe there's something that I'm doing wrong.

I know that there are times when each of us must feel that way. If we don't it might be because we didn't read or understand or have yet to apply the principles taught in Elder Uchdorf's conference talk entitled "Lord, Is It I?" 

I have gone to the Lord in prayer and often confessed "Lord, it's me." and then asked "How can I change?" 

I've seen a lot change since I left home. I've had old friends get baptized, close friends leave on mission, good friends get married, and family members grow and progress in numerous ways. With all these changes I would hate to arrive home not a changed man. And with all the many changes that have and will continue to occur I need the Lord's guidance to know how to change myself in order to be successful in an ever changing world. 

Also, with all the many changes I would be living in fear of an uncertain future. Luckily, through trusting God, I'm not the least bit worried about what might happen after my mission. I know the Lord will prepare a way. I've seen Him do it before in my mission, and thank goodness, He doesn't change.

I would honestly love to share all of my experiences with you, but now I have no time for such an endeavor. I'll try my best to write about all of my experiences, if not in emails, in my journal or in letters. I'm really learning a lot from my mission, but at the end of the day, that's not even the main reason I'm here. So I have a lot to do.

See you soon,

-Elder Southwick 

The Epistle of Daniel the Missionary to the Filipinos - Chapter 1

In the first month, 2015 A.D.

Dear Everyone,

I'm really glad to be serving a mission here in the Philippines especially at this time. There are so many nice people who are willing to listen to missionaries. I only wish I had more time to teach them. Recently we've had a hard time getting members to work with us, and it's resulted in some untaught lessons and unproductive days. 

No matter what ward you're in or how many missionaries are in your ward or branch you need to work with the missionaries. If you don't know the missionaries serving in your area you should introduce yourself. Regardless of your age or gender or activity in the church, the missionaries need your help. Don't wait for them to ask you, ask them. The missionaries have a lot on their plates and they will be pleased to receive help from anyone, but especially from a member of the church who knows the doctrines and principles of salvation. No matter how small your testimony may seem to you it may mean a world of difference to someone. In addition, every time you share your testimony it will grow.

If you are planning on serving your own mission you need the experiences that can only come from working with real missionaries in real situations. Pray for the strength to approach your ward or branch missionaries and ask them what you can do to help them. If the missionaries themselves don't seem excited about missionary work, a member who is excited about it might be just what they need to awake their own desire to serve the Lord. Don't wait for your situation to change, change it.

I've spent way too much time waiting for my ward to help us with the work, but I've started asking them specifically. I'm trying to make the best of my situation, and that's all we can ever do.

* * * * * * * *

I've been greatly blessed over the course of my mission. I've rarely been sick; I'm yet to experience a hurricane; There was an earthquake a few days ago, but I slept through it; I've baptized more people than I ever thought I would, and my life has never been more full or joyous. 

At the same time, my apartment is 20 minutes away from my area; my camera got stolen last week; two of my pants have ripped in various places; I'm slightly behind on my laundry again; only one person came to church this Sunday; none of our investigators are progressing; I don't know where half of our members or investigators live; I hurt my back a few days ago; I still don't speak the language fluently; and my shoes are on their last leg. (Pun intended)

So why am I so happy? It's a fair question. My life isn't easy, and I rarely get to do any of the fun things that I used to do. What's so awesome about missionary work that makes it enjoyable even in the worst of times?

It's the smiles on the faces of the people you teach. It's the kids who call me Mr. Bean. It's the less actives that come to church. It's the members who sacrifice their time to work with us. It's the stories that I hear of people I've impacted without even knowing it. It's the scriptures and the strength that comes daily reading. It's prayer and all the blessings of strengthening my relationship with my Father. All these things make it all worth it. No trial can take away the joy and no pain can take away the peace. It's inexplicable.

If you think a mission is awesome you're right. If you think it's easy you're insane.

In conclusion, I miss all of you dearly. Even if I don't know you as well as I'd like to. Keep doing the hard things that bring joy, and the sacrifices that bring forth the blessings of heaven.

* * * * * * * *

It's so hard to type emails when you have a time limit. It's stressful and it makes me feel very rushed. I'll do my best though. I usually do alright.

This week was very exciting. On Monday we went bowling, and I single-handedly lost the game for us. There were 6 of us, and it was senior companions against junior companions. We were losing at first and then we pulled ahead in the middle, but when we got to the 10th frame we were tied. I had been doing well. I'd gotten a few spares, but on the last two rolls I hit less than 1 pin. and my companion, playing for the senior companions, got a spare and then a strike. His first of the game. It was pitiful. But afterwards we played billiards and Elder Seculles and I won.

I've been trying extra hard to be obedient this week, motivated by a group of children that we've been teaching. If they're ever going to truly progress in the gospel we need to penetrate their homes, and convert their parents, and we're doing very well so far. With their parents permission we took many of them to church last week. There were 17 of us total. The hardest part was finding transportation to the church. We waited with them on the side of the road for a jeepney that was going to the right place and had enough room for all of us. We waited for about 20 minutes and then an old SUV stopped. It was empty other than the driver. I was excited by the fact that we finally had a ride, but then I realized that there were far too many of us. This vehicle had 8 or 9 seats, and only because of the 4 makeshift seats in the back. But we did it. 18 people rode in that car about 2 km or so. 1 driver, 2 elders, 1 member and 14 kids. The lack of seatbelts only made it easier to pile in.

They had a great time at church they didn't all stay in the sacrament hall for all of the meeting, but they enjoyed it, and even more, I enjoyed sharing one of the most sacred parts of my week sitting next to the kids that I've grown so close to.

They enjoyed the classes as well. I believe they made friends, and their relationship with one another seemed strengthened. I can't wait to follow up with them and ask them about the things they learned. 

Sadly, not all of them obtained permission from their parents, mostly because of their age. I know at least one girl spent some of her Saturday night crying because she was not allowed to come to church with us.

But they're awesome, and they remind me of my crazy little brothers. They hang off my arms like I'm their playset, but I never complain. I have so very little to complain about.

Wow, time moves on wings of lightning. I need to get back to work and teach some more people. I'm sorry if you were expecting more this week. I'll try to send more next week and I'll be better about sending pictures too.

* * * * * * * *

From Nov.-Dec. 2014

I'm being transferred to Pasay (which is in Manila) on Wednesday. Tell everyone. I'm in the process of saying goodbye to all the members. I love them a lot. I haven't cried yet, but I don't know how much longer that's going to last. I gave a talk in the Magara Sacrament Meeting yesterday, I talked about, pag-ibig sa kapwa, and selflessness. I've been very selfless recently, so it was nice to share about it using real examples. I gave the whole talk in Tagalog, something I've been doing for a while. I don't know if it's exactly right, but I can always get the point across.

I loved the pictures that you sent to me. I'm very humbled to see how much I mean to each one of you. I'm grateful for all of the pictures and emails that you've sent to me. I've recently been terrible with replying to letters, being a senior companion is time-consuming, maybe I'm just not good at delegating yet.

I'm sorry for my lack of communication in general. I've been taking a lot more pictures, but sending them is a very heavy task. I'll be sure to share with you all of my pictures and adventures after my mission, I only have about a year left. 

Love you,

Elder Southwick

* * * * * * * *

I've been transferred off of Palawan. There, now you all know. :) On the plane ride over here I was sitting next to two random Filipinos. The one on my left had headphones in so I figured I ought to talk to the one on my right. I didn't know how to start the conversation, then I saw something she was reading; "395 Ways to Live a Better Life." One of the ways listed was to "attend a religious service at least once this week" another one was "read a religious book that's unfamiliar." When I read that I knew I had to talk to her. My love for her grew as I saw her desire to have a better life. I wanted more than anything to share the gospel with her, but I didn't want to do it wrong, so I said a prayer, just a little one to let God know that I needed his guidance. Then an idea came. I had a letter from a family in Roxas, and because the whole thing was in Tagalog, I decided that I should ask her to help me translate it. I already understood all of it except one word. "Nag-aantay" I gently got her attention and asked her what it meant. From there I was able to share some of my experiences in Roxas with her, and I told her that I was a missionary. She was very nice. We talked about the plan of salvation and then I brought out the only book I had not packed in my luggage: the Book of Mormon. She had many questions about it. Before I had a chance to introduce it she asked me: "Sino si Mormon?" or "Who is Mormon?" I had the opportunity to teach her about the history of the book. She became quite interested in it and asked many more questions. She also asked many questions about missionaries. I found out that she's going to Manila to be a pre-school teacher. When we landed in the airport we were still talking and she was leading the conversation. I got her phone number and her general address. When I told her that I was 20 she said she's 20 also. I asked her about her birthday and she said it's in December. Unbelieving I said "Anong araw?" or "What day?" December 21 she said. Thousands of miles from home I found a girl who is 9 days younger than me, and certainly now investigating the gospel, and I never would have known that and she would still be searching if I hadn't opened my mouth.

Since I got to Pasay, apart of Manila, I've met many interesting people one who is 2 days older than me and is one of our investigators and he's a Muslim. Crazy how things are here. This is my first P-day since leaving Palawan, and of course I miss the people, but I got to go to the temple today and see my grandparents who now work there. See Pictures.

Also a few days ago I got to go to MOA. If you don't know what that is look it up. We went to Burger King. It was the first time I've been there in a year. It was almost as good as I remember it. I'm very happy here. Don't worry about me. My life is great. I'm just a LRT ride away from my first area.. I wish I could visit. Maybe at the temple someday.

I got a package from my loving family on November 19. FYI, the candy and snacks are all gone now and the letters have all been read at least once thank you all for your love and time. Please keep me updated on your busy lives. I look forward to hearing from all of you. :)

Love you all,

-Elder Southwick

* * * * * * * *

Dear Family and Friends,

I've been in Pasay City, Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Philippines for about 2 weeks now. I used to be in Palawan which is a big island that is more than a hundred miles from here. When I first came here I felt some of the same feelings that I felt when I first arrived in the Philippines. Here are the changes that I've had to re-adjust to these last few weeks:

1. Where there were lizards, there are now cockroaches.

2. Where there were dirt roads, there are now stairs.

3. Where there were dogs, there are now kids.

4. Where I once traveled by bus, I now travel by jeepney.

5. When I once heard thunder and dogs, I now hear traffic and planes.

6. My area was 37 sq km (23 sq mi), now it's 0.9 sq km (0.5 sq mi).

7. I used to see maybe 100- 200 people in a day, now I see thousands and thousands.

8. I lost my glasses in my last week in Palawan, and haven't yet replaced them.

9. I used to eat at a local restaurant on special occasions, today I'm eating at one of the biggest malls in Asia and my grandparents might be there.

10. I can send an email without waiting for an hour.

My life is great. I miss the way things were, but I'm happy with the changes; most of them.

Keep me updated on your busy lives. I'll keep you updated on mine. 

-Elder Southwick

* * * * * * * *

Dear Friends and Family,

For most of you I've been away for a long time. I sure miss each one of you. I've been doing great recently. We haven't had a lot of success in our area recently, but I'm not getting down on that. We might baptize a few people in January, but we do not plan on having any more this year. Right now we're just finding people that we can teach, we have about 30 potential investigators, but the hard part is finding time to teach them. They're always busy, or sometimes we can't teach them because there's no 3rd lalaki. 

I'm still feeling very lost in our area. I don't know where anyone lives or how to get there. If Elder Seculles gets transferred then I will surely perish. I actually know where one family lives, but that is the extent of my knowledge. The entire area is completely different than Roxas, and I'm having a hard time adjusting to the geography. 

Now, about Ruby. For some reason she's late. We were all expecting her last night, but she's still not here. She's close. it started raining about an hour ago, but that's all I've experienced so far. I am not impressed. However, some of the members in our area are from Dolores, Samar, which is directly in the path and has already been hit. They're pretty devastated..

In other news, I finally got some new glasses, they were fairly expensive, but I have enough money left to last until the next support cycle. I'm very glad to finally be able to see clearly. All that time living in a blur. All that time never really seeing things the way they were and at last I see the light.

I've also been rather sick the last few days. I've had a cold and a headache and a fever and I've been feeling weak. But I'll probably have some time to rest as we wait for the storm to pass.

I'm always surprised by how many people accept our message and want us to teach them. Missionary work is awesome here or at least it has the potential to be. If only more members were available to work with us. 

All that being said, it's very fun being a missionary. If you haven't tried it you should. :)

As for my family in America, I've been away for a long time, and I'm sorry that you have to spend another Christmas without me, but please know and remember that I'll see you all next Christmas.

Love you guys

-Elder Southwick

* * * * * * * *

At this time of year it's hard to not want to serve those around you. I want desperately to send each and everyone of you something for Christmas, but alas, I'm some seven thousand miles away from most of you. My love goes out to you. I wish I could do more than wish you a merry Christmas, but at least I can share the truth about Christ with those here with me and serve them. These coming days and weeks I will share the spirit of Christ with as many people as I can and I encourage each of you to do the same. It doesn't take much. You don't have to give all of yourself, just a small piece.

Sadly, I have been sick since last week and am still sick. As far as I know it's something called "reactive airways." Like asthma, but not chronic. It's been 11 days now and I still have some symptoms. I get tired and winded pretty easily and that makes it hard to do missionary work, considering how much walking we do. I was even sick on my birthday, and we didn't teach any lessons that day, but for 3 hours we tried to find someone who was available. We've only taught 6 lessons the whole time I've been sick, and 0 in the last 4 days. Count your many blessings. If you are healthy, rejoice and give thanks, and do things that we sick people can't do. I'm not bed ridden or anything like that, but I miss being healthy enough to do missionary work for hours and hours every day. Maybe you could pray for me. It couldn't hurt. I need all the help I can get. I'm taking medication and I have an inhaler now. I'm doing all I can.

I'm looking into buying a voice recorder to better record my life as a missionary. I'll let you know when I find one.

The missionary work this week was very minimal, but next week I'll have more to talk about. This week we have many scheduled choir activities, and I'm excited for those, now that I can kinda sing again. Early Merry Christmas to each one of you. 

Discover the Gift..

Love,

Elder Southwick