Dear family,
I have to apologize in advance. This is going to be
a pretty lame letter. I am just not in the mood to write I guess. I
don't know why, just not. I am good though. I feel the spirit like
crazy, it’s the prevailing thought in my mind. I am happy, healthy, and
doing so good.
Well, I love you all so much, I hope you all
know that. Its really important for you all to know that I love you so
much! I can’t imagine where I would be without a family like you.
This
week was a bit of a tougher one, but not all bad. Transfers are again
coming up, then only two more to go. The time is going to fast! I
still really can’t believe that I am coming home so soon, it doesn’t
feel right ha ha.
This week we had a baptism for three awesome
men! The first is Joshua, he is 23 years old, super smart man. He’s
trying to work now to save so he can go to school, and then we also
baptized his brother Jonathan. They are both Nigerian, Joshua grew up
in Ghana and Jonathan in Nigeria. They are brothers but you can hardly
even tell, they are about as different as could be. Both great guys
though! The third is named Prince. Prince is friends with a member,
also a great great guy. He is 2 months older than I am, so we are
shooting for missionary service now! It was a great baptism, President
and Sister Judd came. That was cool. It was very spiritual and I was
very happy with how it went!
Well, not much more I can think of
to write about. I just want you all to know how much I love you and how
much you all mean to me. Lately, more than ever, I have really
realized what an awesome family I have.
I got the Valentine’s
package from you, and I got an Easter one from Grandma and Grandpa
Bradshaw, as well as a letter...also I got one from Sister C.B. and the
Lund's. Thank you all so much!
Well gotta go, I’ll get you a better letter next week.
Love you all,
Elder Bradshaw
Monday, March 31, 2014
Monday, March 10, 2014
Pushing cars...
Dear family,
Again so sorry. Today has been a mad house trying to get the
opportunity to email. The cafe's are really messed up this week....
Its taken me about 45 minutes to load my in-box..... So I am lucky I
at least got to read your email and try and send you a quick one.
Well...this week we had kind of a cool experience, we were walking down
the road and a tro tro (basically a Mercedes sprinter bus) stalled and
needed a push start to get going again. There were some men trying to
get it rolling, and we of course hopped on back and gave them some help.
It started...drove away...and then we just kept walking. And then...I didn’t really think
all that much about it.
A few minutes later a silver CRV pulled over
and asked if they could give us a ride somewhere. We were just going
right up the road...but for some reason we ended up in the back seat, I
think it was half ‘the spirit’ and half just because I wanted to ride in
my old car again!
But...anyway I just thought it was some members that picked us up. We
told them, “We were headed to the chapel.”
And they said, “okay which
church?”
“Wait, what? You’re not members?”
“nope”
“So, what made you want to pick us up then?”
“Well, we saw you push that dirty car up the road in your nice white shirts...
you were not a part of the car...nor did you have anything to do with it after it started...
you just kept walking...they didn't ask you to help...but you just did. When we
saw that...we knew Christ was with you and that he would have done the
same. And we wanted to be a part of you.”
Wow! I was blown away!
I didn’t think twice at all about helping to push that car, but it
touched someones heart and now they are meeting with Elder Honour and
his companion (they were not in our area). This experience really affirmed the family
theme to me that, “by small and simple things, are great things
brought to pass.”
It was really so cool.
On a funnier note, Elder Honour and I were asked to preside and conduct
a baptism the other day because the Bishop and all his counselors are
out of town. So, we were at the chapel preparing and there was a bunch
of little kids that kept running into and around the chapel, so Elder
Honour closed the steel gate that goes over the doors.....Only
problem was that we didn't have keys, and our phone was dead.... So, we
were locked in the chapel that night...not all night. Finally someone
came by and was able to let us out, but that was pretty funny!
Anyway, I’m still with Elder Johnson...but I gotta go.
Love you all so much, miss you like crazy,
Elder Bradshaw
Again so sorry. Today has been a mad house trying to get the
opportunity to email. The cafe's are really messed up this week....
Its taken me about 45 minutes to load my in-box..... So I am lucky I
at least got to read your email and try and send you a quick one.
Well...this week we had kind of a cool experience, we were walking down
the road and a tro tro (basically a Mercedes sprinter bus) stalled and
needed a push start to get going again. There were some men trying to
get it rolling, and we of course hopped on back and gave them some help.
It started...drove away...and then we just kept walking. And then...I didn’t really think
all that much about it.
A few minutes later a silver CRV pulled over
and asked if they could give us a ride somewhere. We were just going
right up the road...but for some reason we ended up in the back seat, I
think it was half ‘the spirit’ and half just because I wanted to ride in
my old car again!
But...anyway I just thought it was some members that picked us up. We
told them, “We were headed to the chapel.”
And they said, “okay which
church?”
“Wait, what? You’re not members?”
“nope”
“So, what made you want to pick us up then?”
“Well, we saw you push that dirty car up the road in your nice white shirts...
you were not a part of the car...nor did you have anything to do with it after it started...
you just kept walking...they didn't ask you to help...but you just did. When we
saw that...we knew Christ was with you and that he would have done the
same. And we wanted to be a part of you.”
Wow! I was blown away!
I didn’t think twice at all about helping to push that car, but it
touched someones heart and now they are meeting with Elder Honour and
his companion (they were not in our area). This experience really affirmed the family
theme to me that, “by small and simple things, are great things
brought to pass.”
It was really so cool.
On a funnier note, Elder Honour and I were asked to preside and conduct
a baptism the other day because the Bishop and all his counselors are
out of town. So, we were at the chapel preparing and there was a bunch
of little kids that kept running into and around the chapel, so Elder
Honour closed the steel gate that goes over the doors.....Only
problem was that we didn't have keys, and our phone was dead.... So, we
were locked in the chapel that night...not all night. Finally someone
came by and was able to let us out, but that was pretty funny!
Anyway, I’m still with Elder Johnson...but I gotta go.
Love you all so much, miss you like crazy,
Elder Bradshaw
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Ants in Pants...
Dear family,
I can’t even fathom how time is going as fast as is is! I didn’t even realize it was March until last night. I thought I just slept on my watch wrong and changed the date! Time really is going so so fast! Anyway we had an okay week, not really a great one, but one where I learned quite a bit. I am feeling pretty good this week. Kinda looking forward to transfers, I think there may be some big changes this week, so that will be kinda fun to see. Not so much for me...at least I don’t think...but we’ll see. Hoping for a new companion, and some more people to join the apartment. Living with only two of you is kinda rough. It’s nice to talk with someone else at the end of the day sometimes. Anyway...it was another one of those weeks where it went by so fast that I don’t really know what happened.
In my study right now, I am studying both the atonement and the 3 Nephi chapters where Christ visits the people in America. I have very much enjoyed it! The thing that all my study boils down to is how much God really does love us. He loves each of us at an individual level that is so incredible. It is just amazing! These chapters in the Book of Mormon are some of my favorites. I started studying them when I was in Tema, and I am still I think only on chapter 17 (they start on 11). I say that just because it blows my mind how much there is to be learned and studied...in such a seemingly small amount of words. I can spend hours, or even days on one word at a time...and I love it so much! Honestly, if I didn’t have such a desire to have a family...I think I would study ancient language and religion...move to the Middle East or Central America and devote my life to proving that the Book of Mormon is true using concrete evidence and with more than just the spirit. Elder Honour and I, on Mondays, listen to this guy, Daniel C. Peterson. I don’t know...I just get so much satisfaction by how perfect the Book of Mormon is. It’s awesome! I wouldn’t ever really do that...but I guess I say it just because of how much I love the Book of Mormon. It’s the most incredible thing, and everyone needs to read it more!
Is it transfers this week? Any news about that?
-I don't think I’ll go anywhere, but I guess we will see tomorrow.
Photos?
-sorry, my card is still messed up. I’ll try and fix it today.
Funny stuff?
-Ok...ready for this?
I was teaching a man on a bench under a tree. During the conversation...he kept doing this horribly painful face. He looked shocked out of his mind and then would grab his hum-hum...then say, “okay, go ahead”...He would give it another minute...then the same thing again. Finally he says, “I’m sorry...I have so many ants in my pants that are worrying me too much, and they’re biting! Can we make it another time?!”
Holy cow! It was hilarious. I felt for the guy though...those ant bites hurt...I’m sure especially where he was having them...
Service this week?
-not really, I wish we had more opportunities to serve.
Any special mission activities?
-not right now, I hope we have a temple trip soon though...its been way too long!
Okay so sorry! Time is out. Sorry its a short one. I had to email a few others today so thats why its short. Anyway, I love you all so much. I am safe. I am happy. I am doing well. Weston emailed me this week and it looks like we will most likely be rooming together up at USU...still not for sure. When would we need to have that figured that out?
Love you all so much,
Taylor
I can’t even fathom how time is going as fast as is is! I didn’t even realize it was March until last night. I thought I just slept on my watch wrong and changed the date! Time really is going so so fast! Anyway we had an okay week, not really a great one, but one where I learned quite a bit. I am feeling pretty good this week. Kinda looking forward to transfers, I think there may be some big changes this week, so that will be kinda fun to see. Not so much for me...at least I don’t think...but we’ll see. Hoping for a new companion, and some more people to join the apartment. Living with only two of you is kinda rough. It’s nice to talk with someone else at the end of the day sometimes. Anyway...it was another one of those weeks where it went by so fast that I don’t really know what happened.
In my study right now, I am studying both the atonement and the 3 Nephi chapters where Christ visits the people in America. I have very much enjoyed it! The thing that all my study boils down to is how much God really does love us. He loves each of us at an individual level that is so incredible. It is just amazing! These chapters in the Book of Mormon are some of my favorites. I started studying them when I was in Tema, and I am still I think only on chapter 17 (they start on 11). I say that just because it blows my mind how much there is to be learned and studied...in such a seemingly small amount of words. I can spend hours, or even days on one word at a time...and I love it so much! Honestly, if I didn’t have such a desire to have a family...I think I would study ancient language and religion...move to the Middle East or Central America and devote my life to proving that the Book of Mormon is true using concrete evidence and with more than just the spirit. Elder Honour and I, on Mondays, listen to this guy, Daniel C. Peterson. I don’t know...I just get so much satisfaction by how perfect the Book of Mormon is. It’s awesome! I wouldn’t ever really do that...but I guess I say it just because of how much I love the Book of Mormon. It’s the most incredible thing, and everyone needs to read it more!
Is it transfers this week? Any news about that?
-I don't think I’ll go anywhere, but I guess we will see tomorrow.
Photos?
-sorry, my card is still messed up. I’ll try and fix it today.
Funny stuff?
-Ok...ready for this?
I was teaching a man on a bench under a tree. During the conversation...he kept doing this horribly painful face. He looked shocked out of his mind and then would grab his hum-hum...then say, “okay, go ahead”...He would give it another minute...then the same thing again. Finally he says, “I’m sorry...I have so many ants in my pants that are worrying me too much, and they’re biting! Can we make it another time?!”
Holy cow! It was hilarious. I felt for the guy though...those ant bites hurt...I’m sure especially where he was having them...
Service this week?
-not really, I wish we had more opportunities to serve.
Any special mission activities?
-not right now, I hope we have a temple trip soon though...its been way too long!
Okay so sorry! Time is out. Sorry its a short one. I had to email a few others today so thats why its short. Anyway, I love you all so much. I am safe. I am happy. I am doing well. Weston emailed me this week and it looks like we will most likely be rooming together up at USU...still not for sure. When would we need to have that figured that out?
Love you all so much,
Taylor
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Tired Eyes
Dear Family,
I honestly can’t even describe to you how fast time goes by! I really can’t even comprehend how quickly time is going. Some weeks especially...I’ll sit down on Monday and realize I don’t even remember most of the past week. I can hardly keep my eyes open, I have a mirror in front of me right now and I am pretty sure you guys wouldn’t even recognize me. I am pretty healthy for the most part, but I think what has changed the most is my eyes. I have realized that when I feel the spirit I get really tired, kinda like Lehi, that he cast himself on his bed, I know how he feels... Physically I am pretty well off, spiritually and mentally...I am exhausted. My mind is constantly going at a rate that it never has gone before, and its so sweet! I love it! I am so busy all the time, always preparing some lesson, studying some topic, teaching, interviewing, exchanges...sleeping and eating if I get time;), its actually quite fun. I like the feeling of having such a purpose. I guess you could say, it makes you feel good, like you're doing something that is good, and in the process your making yourself into something good.....I can’t really think of anything better. I love the work I am currently involved in, but I can understand what missionaries mean by they get tired. But I am still excited to do the work that I have been called to do. Things are going well. I am learning so much, and growing so much that I almost don’t want to come home.
Questions from Mom:
Loved your story about the dad working with his sons. How is Derrick and his family doing?
-yeah turns out that Derrick lives in Cape Coast.... So we will never see him again. Its a downer...but even more so because I have a strange suspicion that he really DOES live HERE...but is just trying to ditch us...
Better luck on campus?
-Yeah the process of working with the ward has begun, we got a list yesterday of the members that live on campus, and have started going to their family home evening on Monday nights so that is helping quite a bit. The university is a tough one though, as of now not a lot of success, nevertheless it looks like a bright future.
Most spiritual time?
-I am struggling putting my finger on a specific spiritual experience, but this week I really re-realized how much God loves me. There were times when I was feeling unnecessarily sad, times when I didn’t know where to search for our next person, how to push through to the next day, how to keep going when times became increasingly bleak, etc...and in all of those times the Lord comforted me and gave me exactly what I needed to move forward. I am learning more and more perfectly the love that my Father in Heaven has for me and in return I am loving Him more than ever before.
Are you working with the ward mission leader?
-yeah we work with him. We work with him every once in a while. Our ward right now is struggling a bit, right now. No one from our bishopric is even in the country...so obviously, our coordinating efforts with them is a bit down right now.
Fun p-day stuff?
-we found a driving range this week...so this morning we went out and hit a bucket of balls,,,and that was a ton of fun! I really enjoyed that one.
Did you get yourself some good food?
-I got a bit of good food this week, but mostly I got it from more local places, making it more expensive so I didn’t get all that much. I need to go to this shopping center this week and I’ll be able to get some good stuff. I’ll be taking out some money this week, part of it will be for food.
Health stuff?
-Doing good:).
Wow! I was glad to hear that you have been taking care of yourselves there, sounds like the healthy house is still going strong! I actually got an opportunity to weigh myself a week or so ago, and I have lost some weight as well..... 26 pounds...... I don’t think I want to have lost the weight where I did though...my arms are super skinny, and my stomach really isn’t all that flat...not fat...just not all that great. So I’ll have some work to do when I get home in the gym. Keep up the good work...that’s awesome!
Well just about out of time. Love you all so much, can’t wait to talk to you all next week.
Love you all,
Elder Bradshaw
I honestly can’t even describe to you how fast time goes by! I really can’t even comprehend how quickly time is going. Some weeks especially...I’ll sit down on Monday and realize I don’t even remember most of the past week. I can hardly keep my eyes open, I have a mirror in front of me right now and I am pretty sure you guys wouldn’t even recognize me. I am pretty healthy for the most part, but I think what has changed the most is my eyes. I have realized that when I feel the spirit I get really tired, kinda like Lehi, that he cast himself on his bed, I know how he feels... Physically I am pretty well off, spiritually and mentally...I am exhausted. My mind is constantly going at a rate that it never has gone before, and its so sweet! I love it! I am so busy all the time, always preparing some lesson, studying some topic, teaching, interviewing, exchanges...sleeping and eating if I get time;), its actually quite fun. I like the feeling of having such a purpose. I guess you could say, it makes you feel good, like you're doing something that is good, and in the process your making yourself into something good.....I can’t really think of anything better. I love the work I am currently involved in, but I can understand what missionaries mean by they get tired. But I am still excited to do the work that I have been called to do. Things are going well. I am learning so much, and growing so much that I almost don’t want to come home.
Questions from Mom:
Loved your story about the dad working with his sons. How is Derrick and his family doing?
-yeah turns out that Derrick lives in Cape Coast.... So we will never see him again. Its a downer...but even more so because I have a strange suspicion that he really DOES live HERE...but is just trying to ditch us...
Better luck on campus?
-Yeah the process of working with the ward has begun, we got a list yesterday of the members that live on campus, and have started going to their family home evening on Monday nights so that is helping quite a bit. The university is a tough one though, as of now not a lot of success, nevertheless it looks like a bright future.
Most spiritual time?
-I am struggling putting my finger on a specific spiritual experience, but this week I really re-realized how much God loves me. There were times when I was feeling unnecessarily sad, times when I didn’t know where to search for our next person, how to push through to the next day, how to keep going when times became increasingly bleak, etc...and in all of those times the Lord comforted me and gave me exactly what I needed to move forward. I am learning more and more perfectly the love that my Father in Heaven has for me and in return I am loving Him more than ever before.
Are you working with the ward mission leader?
-yeah we work with him. We work with him every once in a while. Our ward right now is struggling a bit, right now. No one from our bishopric is even in the country...so obviously, our coordinating efforts with them is a bit down right now.
Fun p-day stuff?
-we found a driving range this week...so this morning we went out and hit a bucket of balls,,,and that was a ton of fun! I really enjoyed that one.
Did you get yourself some good food?
-I got a bit of good food this week, but mostly I got it from more local places, making it more expensive so I didn’t get all that much. I need to go to this shopping center this week and I’ll be able to get some good stuff. I’ll be taking out some money this week, part of it will be for food.
Health stuff?
-Doing good:).
Wow! I was glad to hear that you have been taking care of yourselves there, sounds like the healthy house is still going strong! I actually got an opportunity to weigh myself a week or so ago, and I have lost some weight as well..... 26 pounds...... I don’t think I want to have lost the weight where I did though...my arms are super skinny, and my stomach really isn’t all that flat...not fat...just not all that great. So I’ll have some work to do when I get home in the gym. Keep up the good work...that’s awesome!
Well just about out of time. Love you all so much, can’t wait to talk to you all next week.
Love you all,
Elder Bradshaw
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
I'm singing
Dear Family,
Weeks are just flying by! Still not quite sure when I'll be back, but I am thinking that by the next two weeks we should most definitely know. If you could get the exact date that the Fall semester at Utah State will start it would be much appreciated!
Anyway I had a pretty sweet week! A lot of really spiritual days, lots of work this past week but it was a good one.
Monday we didn't really do much.
Tuesday we had a zone meeting, leadership council, and then a half day exchange to take some people to an interview, which I'll talk more about in a minute.
Wednesday I was on an exchange all day with Elder Kidd to evaluate some stuff.
Thursday another half day exchange to open up the university.
Friday was a pretty normal day.
Saturday we had a wedding to attend at the chapel for a little bit, then all of our usual P.E.C. meetings in the evening.
Man I am tired, but it was also a really good week. I am happy with the work that we were able to get done in our area. Still not all that pleased with our people...but I think I pretty well know by now that right before I leave well find some good ones;). Ha ha.
We actually found a really cool family this past week...one that I was really prompted to contact, and it was one of those investigators that you just instantly fall in love with. I know that sounds weird, but it happens sometimes. They are a family of five boys, all out there working with their father to sell the pineapples that they had just harvested off their family farm. They are dirt poor, but they had so much pride in their work. Each of the five boys had their own personal assignment. One to take the money, one to pick the pineapple, one to hold the bag while the dad cut the pineapple into it. It was refreshing to see someone, no matter how un-glamorous the job was...taking pride in it and doing it to the best of their ability. It was a father who was teaching his kids the importance of work. It reminded me of my father, and it really hit me hard. Anyway keep Derrick and the boys in your prayers:).
Mail?
- I got a dear Elder from Grandma and Grandpa Bradshaw
Spiritual time of the week?
This week after our leadership council finished, Elder Kidd and Elder Johnson were deep into our area, and far from being able to quickly come back. So, while they did I had the opportunity to spend a bit of time teaching again with Elder Honour. This specific night they had scheduled special interviews for a few of their candidates and we had the great opportunity to stay with them while they waited for their turn to talk with President Labinjo. While we waited in the chapel, we decided to sing some hymns with the missionaries and investigators that were also waiting. We would pick a song, for example, 'We thank Thee of God for a Prophet', teach about prophets and then sing the song. I am a horrible singer...but that night I about skipped the entire way home. The spirit filled that room with a force that really hit home for me.
It was amazing to see the subtle anxiety that each of the investigators had before they went to meet with President and as they came out...that anxiety being completely gone, and only the look of the purest joy on their faces. Some of them came out crying. Others came and bore their testimony of how true the church was and how they were so happy and grateful for the chance they had been given to become a member. Others explained quietly that for the first time in years they finally felt released from a prison that they had prayed every night to be released from. It was such an incredible experience. It was such a blessing to be there! It was such a testimony builder of how much the atonement of Jesus Christ truly does work. I know it does, I have seen it in my life, and in the lives of countless others. I am so grateful for the opportunity I have to share that news with them that I know to be true!
Campus experience?
-its hard! This was our first week of working there and it was tough! The people are there, but they don't care to talk to you. They are all too busy at all the campus parties stuff like that.
Taking care of yourself?
-yeah, Im trying to:)
Pday?
tonight we have FHE on campus with all the members that are also students. So that will be weird, but also really good. Working with members is absolutely essential on campus.
What are you learning right now?
-I am studying a lot about pure knowledge right now. How to obtain that knowledge independent of any other source, things like that. I feel really prompted to study it, and even when I don't really want to study it. I want to study something else because my mind hurts so much I start reading somewhere else...and it takes me right back to the same topic.
Well sorry for such a lame letter this week. My mind feels fried! I am doing well though and I love you all so much!
Love you all,
Elder Bradshaw
Weeks are just flying by! Still not quite sure when I'll be back, but I am thinking that by the next two weeks we should most definitely know. If you could get the exact date that the Fall semester at Utah State will start it would be much appreciated!
Anyway I had a pretty sweet week! A lot of really spiritual days, lots of work this past week but it was a good one.
Monday we didn't really do much.
Tuesday we had a zone meeting, leadership council, and then a half day exchange to take some people to an interview, which I'll talk more about in a minute.
Wednesday I was on an exchange all day with Elder Kidd to evaluate some stuff.
Thursday another half day exchange to open up the university.
Friday was a pretty normal day.
Saturday we had a wedding to attend at the chapel for a little bit, then all of our usual P.E.C. meetings in the evening.
Man I am tired, but it was also a really good week. I am happy with the work that we were able to get done in our area. Still not all that pleased with our people...but I think I pretty well know by now that right before I leave well find some good ones;). Ha ha.
We actually found a really cool family this past week...one that I was really prompted to contact, and it was one of those investigators that you just instantly fall in love with. I know that sounds weird, but it happens sometimes. They are a family of five boys, all out there working with their father to sell the pineapples that they had just harvested off their family farm. They are dirt poor, but they had so much pride in their work. Each of the five boys had their own personal assignment. One to take the money, one to pick the pineapple, one to hold the bag while the dad cut the pineapple into it. It was refreshing to see someone, no matter how un-glamorous the job was...taking pride in it and doing it to the best of their ability. It was a father who was teaching his kids the importance of work. It reminded me of my father, and it really hit me hard. Anyway keep Derrick and the boys in your prayers:).
Mail?
- I got a dear Elder from Grandma and Grandpa Bradshaw
Spiritual time of the week?
This week after our leadership council finished, Elder Kidd and Elder Johnson were deep into our area, and far from being able to quickly come back. So, while they did I had the opportunity to spend a bit of time teaching again with Elder Honour. This specific night they had scheduled special interviews for a few of their candidates and we had the great opportunity to stay with them while they waited for their turn to talk with President Labinjo. While we waited in the chapel, we decided to sing some hymns with the missionaries and investigators that were also waiting. We would pick a song, for example, 'We thank Thee of God for a Prophet', teach about prophets and then sing the song. I am a horrible singer...but that night I about skipped the entire way home. The spirit filled that room with a force that really hit home for me.
It was amazing to see the subtle anxiety that each of the investigators had before they went to meet with President and as they came out...that anxiety being completely gone, and only the look of the purest joy on their faces. Some of them came out crying. Others came and bore their testimony of how true the church was and how they were so happy and grateful for the chance they had been given to become a member. Others explained quietly that for the first time in years they finally felt released from a prison that they had prayed every night to be released from. It was such an incredible experience. It was such a blessing to be there! It was such a testimony builder of how much the atonement of Jesus Christ truly does work. I know it does, I have seen it in my life, and in the lives of countless others. I am so grateful for the opportunity I have to share that news with them that I know to be true!
Campus experience?
-its hard! This was our first week of working there and it was tough! The people are there, but they don't care to talk to you. They are all too busy at all the campus parties stuff like that.
Taking care of yourself?
-yeah, Im trying to:)
Pday?
tonight we have FHE on campus with all the members that are also students. So that will be weird, but also really good. Working with members is absolutely essential on campus.
What are you learning right now?
-I am studying a lot about pure knowledge right now. How to obtain that knowledge independent of any other source, things like that. I feel really prompted to study it, and even when I don't really want to study it. I want to study something else because my mind hurts so much I start reading somewhere else...and it takes me right back to the same topic.
Well sorry for such a lame letter this week. My mind feels fried! I am doing well though and I love you all so much!
Love you all,
Elder Bradshaw
Monday, February 10, 2014
'Hit the wall' week
Dear Family,
This week was kinda like the week that Zack just explained last week. It's been kinda been like that for a while now, but this week it was probably the worst....I am so dead! On the bright side though, I had no trouble getting to sleep;). We have been going crazy lately! Things are so critical right now, there is so much to do. So many people to find. So many things to learn and study. So much to improve on. Some weeks it just hits you and you die! haha. This week I did pretty good until about Friday...then I died.
Mom it was funny to see that you had mentioned a lot about health and rest this week, because it seems that both Zack and I hit the same wall this week. My theory that I formulated is that I am just so sick of rice that I am getting sick, either from skipping meals, or eating things that are different, but not all that healthy. We did find...a few days ago, a supermarket that is literally straight out of the states! Like, I saw my first tub of actual ice cream in 18 months! We are planning to go back today and get some real food...in hopes that it will bring me back up physically to where I need to be. Elder Honour bought some roast there the other day, and then would just eat like 3 bite sized pieces of it with his dinner and he said it made an incredible difference in how much energy he had, and how good he felt. I think I will go get some today and see how that goes. Its a bit pricey so I obviously won't do all that much shopping there, but I think I should be able to find a few things to get me back up to where I need to be. Mom...read this. I am not dying, or anything...I've just been a bit sick the last few days. Like I said, I think it came from lack of good food and absolute exhaustion, but I am okay:).
Questions:
Spiritual high?
-really had a good lesson with a man named George the other day. He has been studying with the Jehovah’s Witnesses as well. (which by the way...are my least favorite) but we had a really good lesson about how his answer and testimony will be based on The Book of Mormon. We then knelt down with him, and had him pray for an answer right then. After he prayed, we all knelt there for a few minutes with our eyes closed and the spirit was just most definitely there! It was so strong, and George definitely felt it! HE knows that The Book of Mormon is true, but is still a bit confused about which church to join. Which completely baffles me...but then again, Satan is good at what he does... unfortunately.....
Do you still wash your clothes by hand?
-yes :(
Serving others this week?
-helped resolve a bunch of issues between the sisters and some other missionary that had offended them, that was fun, but they are good now. ....Sister Missionaries can be stubborn.
A lesson you learned this week?
-I finally had it confirmed to me of just how important the 'small and simple things' were in my continuing progression toward Christ. Due to my absolute exhaustion I was a bit lax in a few of the small things that I had been doing to have the spirit in my life and as I forgot, or rather, neglected those small and simple acts I felt my progression decline at an alarming pace. I am back on track now of course, but it was almost an exact copy of the paradigm used in Alma 37 in comparison to Lehi’s family and the use of the liahona.
Verse 41 says; “Nevertheless, because those miracles were worked by small means it did show unto them marvelous works. They were slothful, and forgot to exercise their faith and diligence and then those marvelous works ceased, and they did not progress in their journey.”
I became slothful, I trusted too much in my own 'self confidence' and I wasn’t as diligent as I had been in the past with the small things...and those marvelous works began to cease. I was quickly awakened to my own nothingness, but it was a great experience. One that really taught me the principle, as well as at the same time confirmed the power of 'small and simple things', in helping us all on our journey to where we need to be.
How are those college kids doing? Making progress there?
-the semester started today, so this week will be my first week really focusing on the university.
Do you ride a bike?
-we have them, but I don’t like using them. The best people I have been able to work with on my mission, literally all of them, would have been passed by, had I been on a bike. When I walk, I feel like I am more a part of the people, which makes me a bit more inclined to spiritual guidance on who I should talk to, or who even will talk to us.
Can you plan a fun p-day with your district or zone...
I spend quite a bit of time around Elder Honour and Elder Kidd when we have free time, but to tell you the truth...we really don't have enough time as it is to do all that we have to do on p-day.
Have you had a chance to share the bracelets that Elli sent you for Christmas?
-yes, but I haven't handed out all that many, I'll send some pictures when I do.
Okay out of time, love you all. I am somewhat healthy, but doing well, I am safe, and most of all... happy.
Love you all,
Taylor
This week was kinda like the week that Zack just explained last week. It's been kinda been like that for a while now, but this week it was probably the worst....I am so dead! On the bright side though, I had no trouble getting to sleep;). We have been going crazy lately! Things are so critical right now, there is so much to do. So many people to find. So many things to learn and study. So much to improve on. Some weeks it just hits you and you die! haha. This week I did pretty good until about Friday...then I died.
Mom it was funny to see that you had mentioned a lot about health and rest this week, because it seems that both Zack and I hit the same wall this week. My theory that I formulated is that I am just so sick of rice that I am getting sick, either from skipping meals, or eating things that are different, but not all that healthy. We did find...a few days ago, a supermarket that is literally straight out of the states! Like, I saw my first tub of actual ice cream in 18 months! We are planning to go back today and get some real food...in hopes that it will bring me back up physically to where I need to be. Elder Honour bought some roast there the other day, and then would just eat like 3 bite sized pieces of it with his dinner and he said it made an incredible difference in how much energy he had, and how good he felt. I think I will go get some today and see how that goes. Its a bit pricey so I obviously won't do all that much shopping there, but I think I should be able to find a few things to get me back up to where I need to be. Mom...read this. I am not dying, or anything...I've just been a bit sick the last few days. Like I said, I think it came from lack of good food and absolute exhaustion, but I am okay:).
Questions:
Spiritual high?
-really had a good lesson with a man named George the other day. He has been studying with the Jehovah’s Witnesses as well. (which by the way...are my least favorite) but we had a really good lesson about how his answer and testimony will be based on The Book of Mormon. We then knelt down with him, and had him pray for an answer right then. After he prayed, we all knelt there for a few minutes with our eyes closed and the spirit was just most definitely there! It was so strong, and George definitely felt it! HE knows that The Book of Mormon is true, but is still a bit confused about which church to join. Which completely baffles me...but then again, Satan is good at what he does... unfortunately.....
Do you still wash your clothes by hand?
-yes :(
Serving others this week?
-helped resolve a bunch of issues between the sisters and some other missionary that had offended them, that was fun, but they are good now. ....Sister Missionaries can be stubborn.
A lesson you learned this week?
-I finally had it confirmed to me of just how important the 'small and simple things' were in my continuing progression toward Christ. Due to my absolute exhaustion I was a bit lax in a few of the small things that I had been doing to have the spirit in my life and as I forgot, or rather, neglected those small and simple acts I felt my progression decline at an alarming pace. I am back on track now of course, but it was almost an exact copy of the paradigm used in Alma 37 in comparison to Lehi’s family and the use of the liahona.
Verse 41 says; “Nevertheless, because those miracles were worked by small means it did show unto them marvelous works. They were slothful, and forgot to exercise their faith and diligence and then those marvelous works ceased, and they did not progress in their journey.”
I became slothful, I trusted too much in my own 'self confidence' and I wasn’t as diligent as I had been in the past with the small things...and those marvelous works began to cease. I was quickly awakened to my own nothingness, but it was a great experience. One that really taught me the principle, as well as at the same time confirmed the power of 'small and simple things', in helping us all on our journey to where we need to be.
How are those college kids doing? Making progress there?
-the semester started today, so this week will be my first week really focusing on the university.
Do you ride a bike?
-we have them, but I don’t like using them. The best people I have been able to work with on my mission, literally all of them, would have been passed by, had I been on a bike. When I walk, I feel like I am more a part of the people, which makes me a bit more inclined to spiritual guidance on who I should talk to, or who even will talk to us.
Can you plan a fun p-day with your district or zone...
I spend quite a bit of time around Elder Honour and Elder Kidd when we have free time, but to tell you the truth...we really don't have enough time as it is to do all that we have to do on p-day.
Have you had a chance to share the bracelets that Elli sent you for Christmas?
-yes, but I haven't handed out all that many, I'll send some pictures when I do.
Okay out of time, love you all. I am somewhat healthy, but doing well, I am safe, and most of all... happy.
Love you all,
Taylor
 |
| Taylor with his new companion, Elder Johnson...whose family lives in American Fork! |
Monday, February 3, 2014
Precious Bits of Revelation
Hey sorry, another short week..... I had a long email to President and I wrote Zack. So sorry this one will be short.
I want to start off with the questions, because I think they will help me to get the most info I can in the least amount of time. But this week was killer! I am exhausted!
Questions...
How’s Elder J?
-He is doing well. Great desire to be better, which is so great.
Mission conference with Elder Bednar?
-three hour question and answer session! It was AMAZING! He asked us a bunch of questions and we asked him questions as well. The spirit was so so strong, it was great!
Fun to see missionary friends at mission conference?
-It was a lot of fun. It was a joint mission conference, so I got to see Elder Thornhill again which was really great. He is doing great, going back up to Utah State when he gets back. He offered me a possible spot in his house up there, which is still up in the air right now, but would be so fun, and such a great option. So keep your fingers crossed!
I heard that Elder Johnson is a basketball player...are you two getting to exercise together more now? -nope, I can hardly move with my current work load, I havent even thought of trying to add more,.
Is this the first time you have lived with only one person on your mission? Is that weird?
-weird but nice, well its nice because we get along so well, otherwise it would be not so nice!
New investigators?
-not yet...
Most spiritual time of the week?
- the conference was great!
A time you were influenced by the Holy Ghost?
- Elder Bednar asked us to make our notes more like the “small plates” notes and not “large plates” notes. He taught us to basically only to record spiritual promptings from the conference and not what he says. It was a different idea but so rewarding! I had a lot of little bits of revelation that are so precious.
Well, I love you all so much. I hope you know that! I am so tired, so stressed, and just absolutely exhausted...but I'm learning so much. I know good times are ahead, nevertheless times now are not bad. As long as I am learning and growing, and more importantly helping those around me to grow then things are all okay. I love you all more than I can say. You're the best family. I hope you know how much I love and miss you. Thanks for always writing me, it keeps me going!
Love you all,
Elder Bradshaw
I want to start off with the questions, because I think they will help me to get the most info I can in the least amount of time. But this week was killer! I am exhausted!
Questions...
How’s Elder J?
-He is doing well. Great desire to be better, which is so great.
Mission conference with Elder Bednar?
-three hour question and answer session! It was AMAZING! He asked us a bunch of questions and we asked him questions as well. The spirit was so so strong, it was great!
Fun to see missionary friends at mission conference?
-It was a lot of fun. It was a joint mission conference, so I got to see Elder Thornhill again which was really great. He is doing great, going back up to Utah State when he gets back. He offered me a possible spot in his house up there, which is still up in the air right now, but would be so fun, and such a great option. So keep your fingers crossed!
I heard that Elder Johnson is a basketball player...are you two getting to exercise together more now? -nope, I can hardly move with my current work load, I havent even thought of trying to add more,.
Is this the first time you have lived with only one person on your mission? Is that weird?
-weird but nice, well its nice because we get along so well, otherwise it would be not so nice!
New investigators?
-not yet...
Most spiritual time of the week?
- the conference was great!
A time you were influenced by the Holy Ghost?
- Elder Bednar asked us to make our notes more like the “small plates” notes and not “large plates” notes. He taught us to basically only to record spiritual promptings from the conference and not what he says. It was a different idea but so rewarding! I had a lot of little bits of revelation that are so precious.
Well, I love you all so much. I hope you know that! I am so tired, so stressed, and just absolutely exhausted...but I'm learning so much. I know good times are ahead, nevertheless times now are not bad. As long as I am learning and growing, and more importantly helping those around me to grow then things are all okay. I love you all more than I can say. You're the best family. I hope you know how much I love and miss you. Thanks for always writing me, it keeps me going!
Love you all,
Elder Bradshaw
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