Hello all Family and friends,
I hope you are all doing well and that this letter finds you all wherever you are. This week was a rollercoaster here in San Ramon. As is every week on the mission, but Ive really learned the lesson that everyone told me before my mission, is that on your mission there will be days where they are spectacular and amazing and everything goes well, and then you´ll have days where they are not so good, and they are super hard, and you wonder if its worth it. I can really see that every day is precious on the mission, it doesnt matter how difficult the situation may be, every single day is worth the sacrifice and the hard work you put into it. This week has been tough, but its had its moments of remarkable amounts of peace, happiness, and growth on my part. I learn more every day, and I am humbled by the amount that I still have to learn. I feel as though I dont have enough time, even though 18 months is a long time, I have so much to learn, and the time passes way too quickly.
Unfortunately, this week I learned how much satan is at work here. Just because we are missionaries doesnt mean that we are exempt from the works of satan. He works in strange and mysterious ways and it is always against the church and our work here. It is frustrating to see the people you have preparing and working so hard and satan comes in with one small temptation and they fall and it feels like all the work we did was lost. I can testify that the work is never lost with the gospel after the temptings of the adversary. Luckily, and thanks to our Savior, we are never lost and we can always get back up. Like I said, its frustrating to see the works of satan, but I am not mad at him, because honestly, it´s only a testimony builder to me. Everytime I see the way he tries to attack the church, my testimony doesnt weaken but grows stronger and stronger. Why would the adversary work so hard to stop a church that isnt true? Why would he do literally all in his power to stop people from getting baptized if it wasnt the doorway to their salvation?
I can testify with all that I am that after seeing the effects of satan that this church is TRUE, not only is it true, but its the only true and living church on the Earth, it is the church of our Savior whos name it carries. I know that baptism is the doorway to salvation, and I have seen lives changed, and miracles happen when satan and his temptations are overcome. This weekend we had a baptism. On saturday, Maria Sanchez was baptized, a little background information about Maria, her whole entire family, minus her dad was baptized last month before I got here, but she hasnt been able to get baptized because she was living together with the father of her 3 yr old son Joscuam. Her boyfriend didnt want to get married to her, because he didnt want her to join the church. It was tough for her to see her family growing and having these amazing experiences and she was unable to take part in them because of this man. Well, events passed and she ended up leaving him, and moving back in with her parents, and she was ready for baptism. We prepared the day for her on Saturday, and worked as hard as we could to get everything ready for her on this big day. At 2 o clock when the baptism was about ready to start, there was no sign of her. We had our investigators there to watch the baptism and see what it was like, but at 240 they decided to leave and didnt get to watch it. By 3 o clock it was just us and a member of the ward, so we decided to take a taxi to her house and see what the deal was. When we arrived at her house, the whole family was there and they were all a bit shaken up as if something crazy had happened. And something crazy did happen, apparently, Marias brother came home during the day at around 2 o clock, high on crack and cocaine (he is a member who was baptized last month, just another way satan works) with a machete in his hand. He threatened to hurt them all if they didnt give him the things he wanted to sell and buy more drugs. He also told them not to leave the house or tell anyone of this, or else he would really hurt them. So maria ended up staying home and not leaving to her own baptism. When we showed up, we reassured her that this was satan and that she absolutely NEEDED to be baptized, we hurridly shoved us all in the cab and headed up to the church. It was a small and simple service, but the spirit of the Lord was in great abundance, her baptism went great and shenow has the opportunity to partake of these amazing blessings the gospel has to offer. It was the best as she stood up and shared her testimony with all of us present, as she sobbed expressing her gratitude for this moment, the spirit was litterally palpable.
This is just one of the many amazing experiences I have seen this week. I know that God lives and watches over his children and keeps them in his constant care. I know satan is real, but it doesnt mean he has to win. I know this church is true and that only in and through the ordinances of the Gospel can we reach and obtain never ending spiritual happiness, in this life, and the life to come. I am so grateful for my opporunity to be a servant of the Lord, to witness these things that change peoples life, and at the same time to see my own life changed.
I love you all, with all I am. I hope and pray this week will bring many amazing blessings your way.
until next week,
Elder Falor
Monday, April 11, 2011
Monday, April 4, 2011
Pictures!
Yes, I made these. These are baleadas, a dish from Honduras, my all time favorite thing to make :)
The Dead scorpion!
Elder Bertrand and I saying goodbye at changes meeting
Week 24
Hello Family and friends,
Another week has gone by here in San Ramon, and I am sitting here reflecting on all that has passed, it has been a wonderful week filled with growth, learning, loving, and much more. I have really gained a love and appreciation for my mission, I honestly wouldnt trade a second of this time I have here to serve the Savior, I cant think of anything more productive, more fun and enjoyable than this. I am learning so much that I can take with me for the rest of my life.
This week we had the amazing priveledge to watch conference and to hear the inspired words of Gods servants on the earth. I was so excited Saturday morning because us 3 gringos would get the chance to watch conference in English, so we were practically running to the chapel and I felt like a little kid on Christmas. But as I was walking, I saw people who were going about their day like a normal saturday, like there was nothing special going on, and I thought, how sad that these people dont know that we have a prophet of God on the earth, who speaks with him face to face for our benefit, and I reflected on the importance of making these things known to all people, that we have a prophet, and apostles and the true church of Christ, I know that if those people knew what I knew, it wouldnt be just a regular saturday, because Gods mouthpiece was speaking to us, which was ever more reason for me to pick up my pace on the way to conference.
I learned a bunch from conference, stuff that applies to me here and now, and my future, I learned things thatI felt were truly inspired to reach my ears. I loved D. Todd Christoffersons talk when he referred to the talk The Currant Bush by Hugh B. Brown, I read that talk in my first area in a time of struggle and saddness, and it has really helped me, I have to remember that I am not the gardener here, and sometimes God will cut me down to prepare me for something bigger and better that he has in store for me. If GOd doesnt want me to be a certain way, I must accept and give thanks that He is in control in my life, and he shapes me and makes me how I can best be to serve him, and to find joy and happiness in this life. I loved everything about Conference, the spirit was truly strong, I loved that President Monson spoke of the temple being built in rome, that is a huge step for the Church and to think that the same place where the ancient apostles walked and were martyred nearly 2000 years later, we will have a temple, where the people of Italy can enter into the most sacred of covenants in the House of the Lord. Conference was truly an amazing blessing, I enjoyed every minute of it!
This week we found ourselves teaching, teaching and teaching! Which is exactly what I would like to be doing every day, I am never happier except when I am able to bear my testimony and teach people these simple but amazing and life changing truths. We have been preparing a family of 4 for baptism, their names are Alexis, Marta, Paola, and Tanya, they are a great family, and we have worked SO HARD to get them into the waters of baptism, they need to get married but Alexis is Nicaraguan and has to get his papers from his country, so not only have we been working on a marriage for them, but also with their addictions to things not in line with the Word of Wisdom, Alexis has had some bouts with alchol, but we are helping him realize that what he is doing isnt helping him or his family in their progression, and Marta has/had an addiction to coffee. I went and bought her some chocolate mix to make hot chocolate in place of Coffee, she said it would be hard and she didnt think she could do it. I told her about how at one point I drank coffee, and didnt think it would make a difference if I stopped drinking it, but I testified to her that there is a difference and the spirit of the Lord will be with her in more abundance. The next morning (sunday) we asked her how her coffee went because we challenged her to go from 4 cups to 2, she said she hasnt had any cups, and feels great! Alexis hasnt drank in over a week and he said he feels good. There is true strength to be found in the things of the Lord, he knows how to help us and make us strong in order to obey him and his commandments. We are doing everythign to help this family get baptized, and I can truly see the Lords help with us when we do all we can, he makes up the difference.
This week we had quite the funny experience, we were in our room all four of us talking, I was on my bunk and the other three were standing below on the floor. I had my glasses off because I was about to head off to sleep. In mid conversation they all started screaming "AHH!! MATELO MATELO!" I freaked out and threw on my glasses and looked at what they were talking about, expecting just to see a big spider, to my surprise I saw a GIANT scorpion crawling across our floor! Haha! It was freaky, but so funny, and I gave thanks that I got to sleep on the top bunk, I will send a picture of this scorpion so you can all seeit! There is a bunch of wildlife here in San Ramon, more than in Tibas, so far I have seen 2 tarantulas, a zillion toads, a zillion scorpions and a zillion and 3 cockroaches. But that was just a super funny experienec we had, 4 "tough guys" all screaming at the sight of a scorpion.
This week as I heard a song that I have always loved, the words hit me even stronger this time. "Sometimes he lets it rain" is the song title and I thought about that, how in life we all wish that we could have sunshine 24/7, but sometimes God lets in rain on us, and I believe its in hopes that we would show him that we have faith, and that we will excercise it, even when the clouds come in and it appears it will never let up. I have learned this experience more than once on my mission, sometimes, even when we are doing all we can to be what he wants, he lets it rain, and he doesnt let it stop. He has all power and all control over our lives in a real literal sense, but he lets it rain on us, so we can figure out what to do, and show him that we rely wholly upon him and his help in this life. I couldnt do any of the things I have done this far, without his amazing and divine help. I have seen the clouds, and I have felt like they would never leave, but I have seen the sun as well.
I know that the Lord KNOWS and LOVES each and every one of us, with a love that is so personal and so infinite. I know that he is constantly at work in our lives. I know and witness of that love in every aspect of my daily life. I know it because I can see it, I can see and feel the words of the prophet and know that he is called of God, I know that GOd calls prophets because he loves us, and doesnt want us to be alone without a guide in this world growing scarier and more confusing as the days pass by. I know God loves us enough to restore his church on the earth, full of the blessings and authority for all mankind. There is no person in the world that the blessigs of the Gospel cannot reach. I know God lives, I know Jesus Christ lives, and stands as our Savior and Redeemer. I know that this church is true, and I have no shame, doubt, or fear in saying and testifying of its truthfulness.
I love you all, and I hope you all know that. I hope this week brings many blessings and many great things!
You are always in my heart and in my prayers, I love you with all that I am!
Stay strong, keep the faith and lose the fear...
Elder Falor
Another week has gone by here in San Ramon, and I am sitting here reflecting on all that has passed, it has been a wonderful week filled with growth, learning, loving, and much more. I have really gained a love and appreciation for my mission, I honestly wouldnt trade a second of this time I have here to serve the Savior, I cant think of anything more productive, more fun and enjoyable than this. I am learning so much that I can take with me for the rest of my life.
This week we had the amazing priveledge to watch conference and to hear the inspired words of Gods servants on the earth. I was so excited Saturday morning because us 3 gringos would get the chance to watch conference in English, so we were practically running to the chapel and I felt like a little kid on Christmas. But as I was walking, I saw people who were going about their day like a normal saturday, like there was nothing special going on, and I thought, how sad that these people dont know that we have a prophet of God on the earth, who speaks with him face to face for our benefit, and I reflected on the importance of making these things known to all people, that we have a prophet, and apostles and the true church of Christ, I know that if those people knew what I knew, it wouldnt be just a regular saturday, because Gods mouthpiece was speaking to us, which was ever more reason for me to pick up my pace on the way to conference.
I learned a bunch from conference, stuff that applies to me here and now, and my future, I learned things thatI felt were truly inspired to reach my ears. I loved D. Todd Christoffersons talk when he referred to the talk The Currant Bush by Hugh B. Brown, I read that talk in my first area in a time of struggle and saddness, and it has really helped me, I have to remember that I am not the gardener here, and sometimes God will cut me down to prepare me for something bigger and better that he has in store for me. If GOd doesnt want me to be a certain way, I must accept and give thanks that He is in control in my life, and he shapes me and makes me how I can best be to serve him, and to find joy and happiness in this life. I loved everything about Conference, the spirit was truly strong, I loved that President Monson spoke of the temple being built in rome, that is a huge step for the Church and to think that the same place where the ancient apostles walked and were martyred nearly 2000 years later, we will have a temple, where the people of Italy can enter into the most sacred of covenants in the House of the Lord. Conference was truly an amazing blessing, I enjoyed every minute of it!
This week we found ourselves teaching, teaching and teaching! Which is exactly what I would like to be doing every day, I am never happier except when I am able to bear my testimony and teach people these simple but amazing and life changing truths. We have been preparing a family of 4 for baptism, their names are Alexis, Marta, Paola, and Tanya, they are a great family, and we have worked SO HARD to get them into the waters of baptism, they need to get married but Alexis is Nicaraguan and has to get his papers from his country, so not only have we been working on a marriage for them, but also with their addictions to things not in line with the Word of Wisdom, Alexis has had some bouts with alchol, but we are helping him realize that what he is doing isnt helping him or his family in their progression, and Marta has/had an addiction to coffee. I went and bought her some chocolate mix to make hot chocolate in place of Coffee, she said it would be hard and she didnt think she could do it. I told her about how at one point I drank coffee, and didnt think it would make a difference if I stopped drinking it, but I testified to her that there is a difference and the spirit of the Lord will be with her in more abundance. The next morning (sunday) we asked her how her coffee went because we challenged her to go from 4 cups to 2, she said she hasnt had any cups, and feels great! Alexis hasnt drank in over a week and he said he feels good. There is true strength to be found in the things of the Lord, he knows how to help us and make us strong in order to obey him and his commandments. We are doing everythign to help this family get baptized, and I can truly see the Lords help with us when we do all we can, he makes up the difference.
This week we had quite the funny experience, we were in our room all four of us talking, I was on my bunk and the other three were standing below on the floor. I had my glasses off because I was about to head off to sleep. In mid conversation they all started screaming "AHH!! MATELO MATELO!" I freaked out and threw on my glasses and looked at what they were talking about, expecting just to see a big spider, to my surprise I saw a GIANT scorpion crawling across our floor! Haha! It was freaky, but so funny, and I gave thanks that I got to sleep on the top bunk, I will send a picture of this scorpion so you can all seeit! There is a bunch of wildlife here in San Ramon, more than in Tibas, so far I have seen 2 tarantulas, a zillion toads, a zillion scorpions and a zillion and 3 cockroaches. But that was just a super funny experienec we had, 4 "tough guys" all screaming at the sight of a scorpion.
This week as I heard a song that I have always loved, the words hit me even stronger this time. "Sometimes he lets it rain" is the song title and I thought about that, how in life we all wish that we could have sunshine 24/7, but sometimes God lets in rain on us, and I believe its in hopes that we would show him that we have faith, and that we will excercise it, even when the clouds come in and it appears it will never let up. I have learned this experience more than once on my mission, sometimes, even when we are doing all we can to be what he wants, he lets it rain, and he doesnt let it stop. He has all power and all control over our lives in a real literal sense, but he lets it rain on us, so we can figure out what to do, and show him that we rely wholly upon him and his help in this life. I couldnt do any of the things I have done this far, without his amazing and divine help. I have seen the clouds, and I have felt like they would never leave, but I have seen the sun as well.
I know that the Lord KNOWS and LOVES each and every one of us, with a love that is so personal and so infinite. I know that he is constantly at work in our lives. I know and witness of that love in every aspect of my daily life. I know it because I can see it, I can see and feel the words of the prophet and know that he is called of God, I know that GOd calls prophets because he loves us, and doesnt want us to be alone without a guide in this world growing scarier and more confusing as the days pass by. I know God loves us enough to restore his church on the earth, full of the blessings and authority for all mankind. There is no person in the world that the blessigs of the Gospel cannot reach. I know God lives, I know Jesus Christ lives, and stands as our Savior and Redeemer. I know that this church is true, and I have no shame, doubt, or fear in saying and testifying of its truthfulness.
I love you all, and I hope you all know that. I hope this week brings many blessings and many great things!
You are always in my heart and in my prayers, I love you with all that I am!
Stay strong, keep the faith and lose the fear...
Elder Falor
Monday, March 28, 2011
Week 23
Hello Family and friends,
Wow, another week has gone by, it feels like just yesterday that I was writing you all last week. I am now a believer about time in the mission, it FLIES by, it may not seem that way to you all but I have already been out for 5 months and I am headed for 6! Crazy! I remember getting here and thinking 6 months was never going to come, but its creeping up on me. I am really enjoying my time as a servant of the Lord. It doesnt stop being hard, but it does start to get really enjoyable. I love coming home at night knowing I gave my all another day to the serving of the Lord. I found this week that even when everything goes wrong in a day, I am miserable, sick, tired, and feel I cant walk another step, it all gets better when we find one person and share our message with them. I am absolutely at my happiest when I am teaching and testifying of Christ and His church. I find after leaving a lesson I have a spring in my step, and I am energized and feel the spirit pushing me a long every step of the way.
This week was great, we taught a lot, found a lot, and just like normal, we have people in every spectrum of the Gospel, but nonetheless, the work moves forward with great speed. We are working really hard in San Ramon to strengthen and increase membership in the branch.
This week while walking through a jungle/forest to get to another appointment I was struck with fear at first. Its about a 15 minute walk in total darkness, and I let my fear take control at first, but I said a prayer in my heart and immediately the spirit took control. I was comforted and we got to theappointment safely. I can testify that the spirit is real, he is there and he knows us just as our Father and Savior know us. He waits for us to call upon him using our faith, and then he comforts and guides us.
Well family, I am typing on a computer that is super annoying and the keyboard is broken so its super hard to type, so because of that I am out of time, i wish I could write more but I cant right now. Know that I love this work, Ilove this Gospel, and I love each of you individually and specially.
God be with you till we meet again.
Elder Falor
Wow, another week has gone by, it feels like just yesterday that I was writing you all last week. I am now a believer about time in the mission, it FLIES by, it may not seem that way to you all but I have already been out for 5 months and I am headed for 6! Crazy! I remember getting here and thinking 6 months was never going to come, but its creeping up on me. I am really enjoying my time as a servant of the Lord. It doesnt stop being hard, but it does start to get really enjoyable. I love coming home at night knowing I gave my all another day to the serving of the Lord. I found this week that even when everything goes wrong in a day, I am miserable, sick, tired, and feel I cant walk another step, it all gets better when we find one person and share our message with them. I am absolutely at my happiest when I am teaching and testifying of Christ and His church. I find after leaving a lesson I have a spring in my step, and I am energized and feel the spirit pushing me a long every step of the way.
This week was great, we taught a lot, found a lot, and just like normal, we have people in every spectrum of the Gospel, but nonetheless, the work moves forward with great speed. We are working really hard in San Ramon to strengthen and increase membership in the branch.
This week while walking through a jungle/forest to get to another appointment I was struck with fear at first. Its about a 15 minute walk in total darkness, and I let my fear take control at first, but I said a prayer in my heart and immediately the spirit took control. I was comforted and we got to theappointment safely. I can testify that the spirit is real, he is there and he knows us just as our Father and Savior know us. He waits for us to call upon him using our faith, and then he comforts and guides us.
Well family, I am typing on a computer that is super annoying and the keyboard is broken so its super hard to type, so because of that I am out of time, i wish I could write more but I cant right now. Know that I love this work, Ilove this Gospel, and I love each of you individually and specially.
God be with you till we meet again.
Elder Falor
Monday, March 21, 2011
WEEK 22
Hello all Family and Friends,
Well, yet another week has passed by and I think I will have to say that this week was by far the coldest! It was my first week in San Ramon, and believe it or not, its FREEZING here! Absolutely freezing! Maybe not compared to what you guys have to deal with in good old Utah, but for CR, its pretty darn cold. But its been a great week. San Ramon is absolutely beautiful. Its in the middle of city and jungle. We have a small town called Center because San Jose is almost 2 hours away from us, but the rest of our area is all hills, palm trees and GREEN! Everywhere is green and its so amazingly beautiful.
I have seen unimaginable amounts of growth this week. My spanish is improving at a faster rate than I ever imagined, I can understand nearly everything that is being said to me and I am able to communicate one on one with people in more than just a gospel conversation. The Lord has truly picked up my slack, and the Gift of Tongues is REAL! There is no other way I could learn this fast this much as I have without the spirit as my guide. I have been immensely blessed as a missionary. This week we taught a lot! The people in San Ramon are very inviting, although a lot are deeply rooted in their Catholic beliefs, the Lord has been preparing a lot of them to hear the message of the Restoration of Gods church. I can´t believe the way I am able to communicate and how much the spirit really guides me. The Lord knows his missionaries and he blesses them in this work.
This week, I happened to be so lucky to have President and Hermana Galvez come to another district meeting, it was so powerful. As I said before, president Galvez has a spirit about him, he is inspired and called of God. He has something about him that just makes the missionaries want to do better and improve. At least thats how I felt. I found areas to improve and I am working harder and harder each day to achieve my goal and do a good job as a servant of the Lord.
This week we had an activity in the Branch and watched Joseph Smith the Prohet of the Restoration movie. And what a great movie that is, that depicts the life and trials of the Prophet Joseph Smith, that man did a lot all so we could have the gospel in our lives today. A lot of what we face is tiny compared to what he had to do to restore the truth back onto the earth. We are truly blessed to have and be able to understand the fullness of the gospel and the plan of salvation.
The gospel is an amazing blessing in my life and in every life it touches. I have witnessed many amazing miracles wrought through the power of this gospel. I have seen people and lives changed through the amazing blessings of the gospel. I have seen families strengthened, relationships strengthened and literally miracles happen through the gospel. I am deeply grateful for this oportunity to witness and be a part of this powerful, life saving gospel. I am firm in my decision to serve a mission, without a single doubt in my mind that this is where I am supposed to be. That God called ME to be here right now teaching these people. I find no greater joy then when we are in the humblest of humble homes teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in the middle of Costa Rica. I find it absolutely amazing that the spirit finds us, and the Lord finds those people to prepare to hear our message, regardless of where we might end up.
I know that Heavenly Father loves me. I can feel it and see it every single day. I know that He lives, that He watches over us and cares for our well being and safety. I know that every aspect of our lives is part of His divine plan of happiness. I know that if we wait and watch well God will pour out the blessings of heaven to us. I know our Savior personally, and have seen His hands at work. He is the reason and the motive behind all of this, and I dont want to represent anyone else than my Savior Jesus Christ. This is His work, His time, and His mission.
I am continually doing well in the mission, I am so grateful for your prayers and your support for me back home. I hope you all know how much I love you and how much you mean to me. I couldnt do this without you and I am truly truly thankful for each and every one of you reading this letter right now.
I hope this week is filled with happiness and sucess, I am praying all is well with you, I love you all,
until next week,
Elder Falor
Well, yet another week has passed by and I think I will have to say that this week was by far the coldest! It was my first week in San Ramon, and believe it or not, its FREEZING here! Absolutely freezing! Maybe not compared to what you guys have to deal with in good old Utah, but for CR, its pretty darn cold. But its been a great week. San Ramon is absolutely beautiful. Its in the middle of city and jungle. We have a small town called Center because San Jose is almost 2 hours away from us, but the rest of our area is all hills, palm trees and GREEN! Everywhere is green and its so amazingly beautiful.
I have seen unimaginable amounts of growth this week. My spanish is improving at a faster rate than I ever imagined, I can understand nearly everything that is being said to me and I am able to communicate one on one with people in more than just a gospel conversation. The Lord has truly picked up my slack, and the Gift of Tongues is REAL! There is no other way I could learn this fast this much as I have without the spirit as my guide. I have been immensely blessed as a missionary. This week we taught a lot! The people in San Ramon are very inviting, although a lot are deeply rooted in their Catholic beliefs, the Lord has been preparing a lot of them to hear the message of the Restoration of Gods church. I can´t believe the way I am able to communicate and how much the spirit really guides me. The Lord knows his missionaries and he blesses them in this work.
This week, I happened to be so lucky to have President and Hermana Galvez come to another district meeting, it was so powerful. As I said before, president Galvez has a spirit about him, he is inspired and called of God. He has something about him that just makes the missionaries want to do better and improve. At least thats how I felt. I found areas to improve and I am working harder and harder each day to achieve my goal and do a good job as a servant of the Lord.
This week we had an activity in the Branch and watched Joseph Smith the Prohet of the Restoration movie. And what a great movie that is, that depicts the life and trials of the Prophet Joseph Smith, that man did a lot all so we could have the gospel in our lives today. A lot of what we face is tiny compared to what he had to do to restore the truth back onto the earth. We are truly blessed to have and be able to understand the fullness of the gospel and the plan of salvation.
The gospel is an amazing blessing in my life and in every life it touches. I have witnessed many amazing miracles wrought through the power of this gospel. I have seen people and lives changed through the amazing blessings of the gospel. I have seen families strengthened, relationships strengthened and literally miracles happen through the gospel. I am deeply grateful for this oportunity to witness and be a part of this powerful, life saving gospel. I am firm in my decision to serve a mission, without a single doubt in my mind that this is where I am supposed to be. That God called ME to be here right now teaching these people. I find no greater joy then when we are in the humblest of humble homes teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ in the middle of Costa Rica. I find it absolutely amazing that the spirit finds us, and the Lord finds those people to prepare to hear our message, regardless of where we might end up.
I know that Heavenly Father loves me. I can feel it and see it every single day. I know that He lives, that He watches over us and cares for our well being and safety. I know that every aspect of our lives is part of His divine plan of happiness. I know that if we wait and watch well God will pour out the blessings of heaven to us. I know our Savior personally, and have seen His hands at work. He is the reason and the motive behind all of this, and I dont want to represent anyone else than my Savior Jesus Christ. This is His work, His time, and His mission.
I am continually doing well in the mission, I am so grateful for your prayers and your support for me back home. I hope you all know how much I love you and how much you mean to me. I couldnt do this without you and I am truly truly thankful for each and every one of you reading this letter right now.
I hope this week is filled with happiness and sucess, I am praying all is well with you, I love you all,
until next week,
Elder Falor
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Week 21: Hello from San Ramon Costa Rica
Helloo Family,
yet another week has come and gone here in Costa Rica. This week was just as crazy as the rest, but filled with amazing moments and memories I will never ever forget as long as I live. This week was my last week in Tibas. But we were having great success. I am constantly seeing the Lords hand in this work, and just how when we think we are not going to do any good in the month he himself intervenes, and opens our eyes and the way to his chosen and prepared sons or daughters. We found a lady named Aida, her son Jaime and his girlfriend and soon to be spouse, Yerling, who are all preparing to be baptized and Jaime and yerling married just before their baptism. I am sad I will miss it, but I know the Lord called me to San Ramon, and that the people and places and things I knew in tibas were meant for my progression as his son and his missionary.
This week in Tibas, Estaca Toyopan had their stake conference, we had an area seventy come and speak. It was a great experience, I was surprised how much I understood, and the spirit testified to me of the truth of it all. It was great, I got the chance to sustain our Prophet Thomas S. Monson, the distance between me adn the prophet, and the language barrier didnt stop the spirit from testifying that this man was chosen of God to be our guide, our seer, and our mouthpiece to heaven. I know he is a Prophet of God and I am so happy I was able to raise my hand and vote to sustain him as our Prophet seer and revelator. This week I felt the spirit in great abundance, so much that it literally almost brings tears to my eyes and I get the chills. Those who have the gift of the HOly Ghost dont know how lucky they are to have this gift to testify and teach of the truth, and to bring that overwhelming peace and reassurance in this life.
I am always amazed at how much the Lord knows me individually, he knows my circumstance, he knows when I need his help, he knows when he must let me do it on my own. But either way he is at my side. This week in Tibas I had the pleasure of doing divisions twice. Once in Zurqui, and the other in La Leon XIII. Both were amazing experiences, we were contacting in the street, in the park, testifying wherever we could. I really felt like a messenger from the Lord. Even though not a lot will come out of this, I can rest assured knowing I left those people with my testimony of the truth. And when the Lord sees fit he will cause it to stir in their hearts and they can come to this happiness that we have.
This week as I said before I had changes. It was harder than I thought to leave Tibas. It was a hard area but I grew to love it and the people SO MUCH! I almost cried saying goodbye to my dear new friends, it felt like I was saying goodbye to my family again, I get so attatched and these people become a temporary subsititute for my family. But I am happy knowing I did my part, I can leave Tibas with no regrets, knowing I gave my all even in times when it was difficult. At changes meeting, it was great to see everything change, some people progressing, Elder Montierth is now District leader in Zona Atlantica! My comp is still in Tibas, but is doing great! I am here with my new Comp in San Ramon. My comps name is Elder Gibbs from Utah, we live in a house with another kid from Utah and one from Honduras. The area seems chill and I am excited to get to work. Apparently, President Galvez thinks I am in the welcoming comittee for new missionaries who are new converts. Unknowingly, he called me from the audience to give a welcome to an elder in front of nearly 200 missionaries IN SPANISH! It went well, I just testified to him how great of a blessing his story and his testimony will be to those he serves.
Well Family, as usual the work always continues. Its like starting all over again, but I have no doubt that the Lord will lift me up. I am so amazed at the love he has for me and for each and everyone of us. Even those not of the LDS faith. God loves his children, he wants them to be successful and happy in this life, and I know that he wants us to follow him with all our hearts. I know this Gospel is true, I know that Jesus is the Christ, the light and life of the world, and that through him we can have everlasting life. I know that this church is TRUE! It is the same church that Jesus Christ himself established some 2000 years ago. I know the Book of Mormon to be true because I have read it, I know and feel with deep conviction in my heart that these are the words of God, I know that it is the most correct book on EARTH and it contains the necessary information we need to fulfill our purpose and return to live with Heavenly Father.I know I was called of God to be here. I know all this without a shadow of a doubt.
Know that I love you all! Until next week!
I love you!
Elder Falor
yet another week has come and gone here in Costa Rica. This week was just as crazy as the rest, but filled with amazing moments and memories I will never ever forget as long as I live. This week was my last week in Tibas. But we were having great success. I am constantly seeing the Lords hand in this work, and just how when we think we are not going to do any good in the month he himself intervenes, and opens our eyes and the way to his chosen and prepared sons or daughters. We found a lady named Aida, her son Jaime and his girlfriend and soon to be spouse, Yerling, who are all preparing to be baptized and Jaime and yerling married just before their baptism. I am sad I will miss it, but I know the Lord called me to San Ramon, and that the people and places and things I knew in tibas were meant for my progression as his son and his missionary.
This week in Tibas, Estaca Toyopan had their stake conference, we had an area seventy come and speak. It was a great experience, I was surprised how much I understood, and the spirit testified to me of the truth of it all. It was great, I got the chance to sustain our Prophet Thomas S. Monson, the distance between me adn the prophet, and the language barrier didnt stop the spirit from testifying that this man was chosen of God to be our guide, our seer, and our mouthpiece to heaven. I know he is a Prophet of God and I am so happy I was able to raise my hand and vote to sustain him as our Prophet seer and revelator. This week I felt the spirit in great abundance, so much that it literally almost brings tears to my eyes and I get the chills. Those who have the gift of the HOly Ghost dont know how lucky they are to have this gift to testify and teach of the truth, and to bring that overwhelming peace and reassurance in this life.
I am always amazed at how much the Lord knows me individually, he knows my circumstance, he knows when I need his help, he knows when he must let me do it on my own. But either way he is at my side. This week in Tibas I had the pleasure of doing divisions twice. Once in Zurqui, and the other in La Leon XIII. Both were amazing experiences, we were contacting in the street, in the park, testifying wherever we could. I really felt like a messenger from the Lord. Even though not a lot will come out of this, I can rest assured knowing I left those people with my testimony of the truth. And when the Lord sees fit he will cause it to stir in their hearts and they can come to this happiness that we have.
This week as I said before I had changes. It was harder than I thought to leave Tibas. It was a hard area but I grew to love it and the people SO MUCH! I almost cried saying goodbye to my dear new friends, it felt like I was saying goodbye to my family again, I get so attatched and these people become a temporary subsititute for my family. But I am happy knowing I did my part, I can leave Tibas with no regrets, knowing I gave my all even in times when it was difficult. At changes meeting, it was great to see everything change, some people progressing, Elder Montierth is now District leader in Zona Atlantica! My comp is still in Tibas, but is doing great! I am here with my new Comp in San Ramon. My comps name is Elder Gibbs from Utah, we live in a house with another kid from Utah and one from Honduras. The area seems chill and I am excited to get to work. Apparently, President Galvez thinks I am in the welcoming comittee for new missionaries who are new converts. Unknowingly, he called me from the audience to give a welcome to an elder in front of nearly 200 missionaries IN SPANISH! It went well, I just testified to him how great of a blessing his story and his testimony will be to those he serves.
Well Family, as usual the work always continues. Its like starting all over again, but I have no doubt that the Lord will lift me up. I am so amazed at the love he has for me and for each and everyone of us. Even those not of the LDS faith. God loves his children, he wants them to be successful and happy in this life, and I know that he wants us to follow him with all our hearts. I know this Gospel is true, I know that Jesus is the Christ, the light and life of the world, and that through him we can have everlasting life. I know that this church is TRUE! It is the same church that Jesus Christ himself established some 2000 years ago. I know the Book of Mormon to be true because I have read it, I know and feel with deep conviction in my heart that these are the words of God, I know that it is the most correct book on EARTH and it contains the necessary information we need to fulfill our purpose and return to live with Heavenly Father.I know I was called of God to be here. I know all this without a shadow of a doubt.
Know that I love you all! Until next week!
I love you!
Elder Falor
Monday, March 7, 2011
Week 20 and the return of HOT WATER!
Hello family and friends,
Another week has gone by and I find it important news to tell you that, YES, we now have hot water in our house! Woo! How great it was to finally take a warm shower or atleast semiwarm. Haha! I know you have all been anxiously waiting for this news, so I figured to release some tension I would tell you at the beginning of my letter.
I hope again, that this letter finds you all happy and healthy. I am so deeply grateful for all your letters that I get each and every week. I am so grateful to be here on the mission serving the Lord and carrying his name and his message to the people of Costa Rica. It was another hot week here in Costa Rica, we are entering the hot season so its going to start getting hotter, and then we will be in the rainy season, and from what I have heard the rainy season really means RAINY, it rains all day everyday without stop. Kind of like the rain on all the movies you see where it just pours and pours and pours, but we never actually see in real life. I will let you know how that goes when I find out.
Not much happened this week. We are always on a constant rollercoaster with investigators because of the new form in which we contact by talking about baptism on the first visit. Some days we have lots of investigators, we get into a lot of houses, we teach a lot of lessons, the people accept our invitations to be baptized and then we never see them again. As for now, we have a bunch of different people in different stages of the gospel. We have people that we have contacted, people we are teaching, people are preparing to go to church, people we are preparing for baptism, people who are recent converts, and people who have fallen away from the church for one reason or another. Whatever the case may be, the work of a missionary never stops.
One thing I have learned here came from our purpose we are here to invite people to come unto Christ...we dont force, we dont push, we do 50% and only expect them to fulfill their 50% and pray, read, attend church so they can really receive their witness of the truthfullness of this Gospel. But we not only need to invite investigators to Christ, even longtime members can be drawing away from the Savior but may not know it. Each and everyone of us, missionary, and nonmember, lifetime member and stake president... everyone needs to come closer to Christ. The way is and has been prepared for each of us to take the step and follow him. And we do that by how we live each and every day of our lives as if our Savior was standing in the midst of us, watching and observing all our actions. There is no soul on this planet that is living, or has ever lived or who will ever live that doesnt absolutely NEED the gospel of Jesus Christ in their lives. We live in a world growing more dangerous and scary every minute and second, and everyone needs comfort and peace which comes through living, and following the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
This week we had the privelege of having President and Hermana Galvez visit our District Meeting. My comp in the District Leader and he was pretty nervous all week to have a lesson prepared for them on Friday. President Galvez truly has a presence about him, I remember saying that I was nervous, as if the Prophet was walking into the room, in no way is he the prophet, but he is a man who has been called of God and you can tell that just by his presence when he entered the chapel on Friday. The lesson we had was amazing. Hermana Galvez is constantly trying to get the Latinos to learn English so we sang all the hymns in english, the prayers are in english, and the spiritual thoughts were in English. We practiced with Pres y Hna Galvez on how to contact many different people from many different faiths without offending their beliefs. We focused a lot on getting rid of the fear we sometimes have in contacting and talking about baptism right away. I left the meeting having learned a TON about everything, but mostly how I can improve my efforts as a messenger for the Lord Jesus Christ.
The other day we were at a less active members house. These people had been members longer than me, and have been gradually and slowly falling away from the Church, but we stopped by in an effort to strengthen them back into the faith and shared an amazing lesson with them. Our topic of the lesson was the Atonement. And how everything we have in the gospel, whether it be from fast offerings, to primary, from the sacrament to Relief Society, every single organization, ordinance, class, book, pamphlet, everything stems from the Atonement of our Savior and our Brother, Jesus Christ. Teaching the lesson, I couldnt say much, but the spirit worked through me to get my point across and share my beliefs and feelings of this amazing sacrifice. It almost brought tears to my eyes to think of the Man I have come so close to in these past 4 months, falling on his knees, crying, begging, and suffering, all so that we could have the blessings from this sacrifice. I truly tremble to know that for me, a sinner, he was crucified. The sacrifice of our Savior is nothing short of amazing. He was baptized regardless of not having sins, he suffered and died and paid a price he did not owe. All because we had a price to pay that we could not afford. I remember this day my mind was somewhere else, I was upset with my spanish, worried about everything possibly that could be worried about, but after this lesson, my mind and purpose was refocused. I was redirected on my target and refocused on the purpose of my being here.
A lot of people think missionaries are crazy. And in reality, we kind of are. We give up two years of our lives for a Church we believe is true, and then, we offer to pay for it. We suffer heat, cold, storms, screaming people, crazy dogs, rejection, everything you can imagine, all because we have a testimony of the truth. Because we have received a witness that this gospel is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The same doctrine, teaching, and authority that Jesus himself gave to his Apostles when he walked upon this earth. We are here to declare that Jesus died for us, and lives for us, so we can live with him and our Father in never ending peace. What more of a reason do we need to leave our homes from two years on our own choice? I am so grateful for my decision to serve a mission. I dont want to be anywhere else then here declaring that God lives, and loves us enough to restore his church, the instructions for this life, the map to return back to Him.
I know that this church is true. In fact I have not one doubt in my mind that Joseph Smith saw the Father and the Son, and that through him Christ restored HIS church on the earth again. I have no doubt in my mind that Jesus suffered for me and each and everyone of you. I know that my Father stands in front of me, on my left, on my right and behind me, lifting me up, and waiting to bless and strengthen me in his work. I know all this is true. With every fiber of my being I know this is true.
I want you all to know how special you are to me, and how much I love you. I love you with all that I am and pray that this week brings happiness and joy into your lives. Stay strong. Keep the faith and lose the fear.
Love you all,
Elder Falor
Another week has gone by and I find it important news to tell you that, YES, we now have hot water in our house! Woo! How great it was to finally take a warm shower or atleast semiwarm. Haha! I know you have all been anxiously waiting for this news, so I figured to release some tension I would tell you at the beginning of my letter.
I hope again, that this letter finds you all happy and healthy. I am so deeply grateful for all your letters that I get each and every week. I am so grateful to be here on the mission serving the Lord and carrying his name and his message to the people of Costa Rica. It was another hot week here in Costa Rica, we are entering the hot season so its going to start getting hotter, and then we will be in the rainy season, and from what I have heard the rainy season really means RAINY, it rains all day everyday without stop. Kind of like the rain on all the movies you see where it just pours and pours and pours, but we never actually see in real life. I will let you know how that goes when I find out.
Not much happened this week. We are always on a constant rollercoaster with investigators because of the new form in which we contact by talking about baptism on the first visit. Some days we have lots of investigators, we get into a lot of houses, we teach a lot of lessons, the people accept our invitations to be baptized and then we never see them again. As for now, we have a bunch of different people in different stages of the gospel. We have people that we have contacted, people we are teaching, people are preparing to go to church, people we are preparing for baptism, people who are recent converts, and people who have fallen away from the church for one reason or another. Whatever the case may be, the work of a missionary never stops.
One thing I have learned here came from our purpose we are here to invite people to come unto Christ...we dont force, we dont push, we do 50% and only expect them to fulfill their 50% and pray, read, attend church so they can really receive their witness of the truthfullness of this Gospel. But we not only need to invite investigators to Christ, even longtime members can be drawing away from the Savior but may not know it. Each and everyone of us, missionary, and nonmember, lifetime member and stake president... everyone needs to come closer to Christ. The way is and has been prepared for each of us to take the step and follow him. And we do that by how we live each and every day of our lives as if our Savior was standing in the midst of us, watching and observing all our actions. There is no soul on this planet that is living, or has ever lived or who will ever live that doesnt absolutely NEED the gospel of Jesus Christ in their lives. We live in a world growing more dangerous and scary every minute and second, and everyone needs comfort and peace which comes through living, and following the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
This week we had the privelege of having President and Hermana Galvez visit our District Meeting. My comp in the District Leader and he was pretty nervous all week to have a lesson prepared for them on Friday. President Galvez truly has a presence about him, I remember saying that I was nervous, as if the Prophet was walking into the room, in no way is he the prophet, but he is a man who has been called of God and you can tell that just by his presence when he entered the chapel on Friday. The lesson we had was amazing. Hermana Galvez is constantly trying to get the Latinos to learn English so we sang all the hymns in english, the prayers are in english, and the spiritual thoughts were in English. We practiced with Pres y Hna Galvez on how to contact many different people from many different faiths without offending their beliefs. We focused a lot on getting rid of the fear we sometimes have in contacting and talking about baptism right away. I left the meeting having learned a TON about everything, but mostly how I can improve my efforts as a messenger for the Lord Jesus Christ.
The other day we were at a less active members house. These people had been members longer than me, and have been gradually and slowly falling away from the Church, but we stopped by in an effort to strengthen them back into the faith and shared an amazing lesson with them. Our topic of the lesson was the Atonement. And how everything we have in the gospel, whether it be from fast offerings, to primary, from the sacrament to Relief Society, every single organization, ordinance, class, book, pamphlet, everything stems from the Atonement of our Savior and our Brother, Jesus Christ. Teaching the lesson, I couldnt say much, but the spirit worked through me to get my point across and share my beliefs and feelings of this amazing sacrifice. It almost brought tears to my eyes to think of the Man I have come so close to in these past 4 months, falling on his knees, crying, begging, and suffering, all so that we could have the blessings from this sacrifice. I truly tremble to know that for me, a sinner, he was crucified. The sacrifice of our Savior is nothing short of amazing. He was baptized regardless of not having sins, he suffered and died and paid a price he did not owe. All because we had a price to pay that we could not afford. I remember this day my mind was somewhere else, I was upset with my spanish, worried about everything possibly that could be worried about, but after this lesson, my mind and purpose was refocused. I was redirected on my target and refocused on the purpose of my being here.
A lot of people think missionaries are crazy. And in reality, we kind of are. We give up two years of our lives for a Church we believe is true, and then, we offer to pay for it. We suffer heat, cold, storms, screaming people, crazy dogs, rejection, everything you can imagine, all because we have a testimony of the truth. Because we have received a witness that this gospel is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The same doctrine, teaching, and authority that Jesus himself gave to his Apostles when he walked upon this earth. We are here to declare that Jesus died for us, and lives for us, so we can live with him and our Father in never ending peace. What more of a reason do we need to leave our homes from two years on our own choice? I am so grateful for my decision to serve a mission. I dont want to be anywhere else then here declaring that God lives, and loves us enough to restore his church, the instructions for this life, the map to return back to Him.
I know that this church is true. In fact I have not one doubt in my mind that Joseph Smith saw the Father and the Son, and that through him Christ restored HIS church on the earth again. I have no doubt in my mind that Jesus suffered for me and each and everyone of you. I know that my Father stands in front of me, on my left, on my right and behind me, lifting me up, and waiting to bless and strengthen me in his work. I know all this is true. With every fiber of my being I know this is true.
I want you all to know how special you are to me, and how much I love you. I love you with all that I am and pray that this week brings happiness and joy into your lives. Stay strong. Keep the faith and lose the fear.
Love you all,
Elder Falor
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