Dear Family!
We totally get to talk to eachother on the phone tomorrow! How rad is that? I can't wait to hear your voices- it'll be wonderful. I love those little videos you send always. They make me smile so darn much. It's so fun to hear you all singing good ol' Elton :D THAT will be so fun to rock out in a couple of months ha.
This week has been a completely crazy one, filled with a couple experiences I never could have dreamed of having here on the mission, but I loved every day of it.
Firstly, last Sunday was 100% amazing. It was one of the greatest Sundays I've had on the mission- especially here in Warszawa. There were 12 investigators in our branch- several of them are very seriously investigating the church and plan on being baptized, which is wonderful. The meetings were all very enlightning- especially the 2nd hour when I was asked to come into Primary to translate. I always loved Primary here in Poland, but this last week was extra hilarious.
Since I was last here, all the American families have moved away, so Primary consists of a few Polish children, and recently a couple Ukrainian children as well. This last sunday there was one Polish child, Adaś, a Ukrainian girl, Dianna, and Dawid, her little brother. They are very smart kids, and the lesson went very well (we talked about prayer, using Daniel and the Lion's den as an example of how we can pray always when we are in need of help or comfort), except little Dawid is only 2 years old, and he loves running into things/people, so all lesson, he would just run from one side of the circle to the other, slamming into people, chairs, walls. I almost cried out of laughter. Primary kids are the best.
The next part of the Sunday that blew me away was the Priesthood meeting. Priesthood meetings in Poland can quickly get out of hand, with people volunteering false doctrine, and explaining doctrines that aren't completely true. But that's why Brat Robert Magnuski is in our branch. The lesson was on the Holy Ghost, and there was some confusion as to the doctrine of the Godhead, but Brother Magnuski got up and explained it all with such clarity, power and authority, it blew my mind. I was translating for one of the American men who is here working in Poland, Brother Lewis (who is in the Branch Presidency now) and as I was translating everything he was saying, I was just in amazement at how masterfully he taught the doctrines of the Gospel. It was the perfect example of that principle that "we as missionaries need to teach the Gospel in such a way that no one can misunderstand it..."
After the meeting block, there was a Break the fast, and everyone stayed and thoroughly enjoyed the atomosphere of love and the Spirit. Everyone was so darn happy, I just loved it. Seeing everyone's happiness in just being at the chapel with eachother was something sweet for me. It was a good day :)
From Monday to Wednesday, President Engbjerg and I were driving all over Poland- I did most of the driving because President had tons of things to read over, and whatnot, but it was a wonderful experience to spend so much quality time with that man. I love him tons- he is an amazing friend and it is a pleasure to be around him, to learn from his amazing example humble and loving leadership. I has so much love inside of himself, yet he also knows when things need to be done, and how to do them in the right way. We visited the Lublin, Białystok, Kraków, Kielce, and Katowice Districts for interviews, and I shared a Spiritual thought with them all. It was a wonderful experience. I could write so much more about it- we stayed in some really neat hotels, and I ate the best breakfasts I've had for the last 2 years. We went running in the old town of Lublin, which was absolutely gorgeous. I can't wait for you to someday see a European city centre. It's unreal :) Just a walk back in time, to cobble stones, and beautiful architechture. The Districts in all those towns are doing super well- I admire a lot of those missionaries- I'm especially proud of Elder Beaty and Elder Hobbes from my group. They are all doing so well, and working as hard as they can. It's amazing to hear about the miracles the Lord is working in those cities their working in.
On Thursday we met with our investigators, and had a couple amazing experiences. Premise to experience number 1 - I met this couple - Beata and Bartek- on the Rynek the first day these last new missionaries came in, about a month and a half ago. We've been so busy I never had the chance to call an set up a day, but I called about 2 weeks ago, and asked if we could meet. The crazy thing is, I called from a different number then the one I gave them, and when she picked up, I said "Hi, is Beata there?" And before I could even explain who I was she said "Oh cześć Michał! Co słychać?" O hey Michael, how are you doing?" She remembered who I was, after a month and a half, just by my voice. I was blown away right then. She said they couldn't meet that week, but she would call when they came back from vacation a week later. Low and behold, a week later she texts and says, "Hi Michael, we'd love to meet this next week if you have time." We didn't really have time until Thursday, so we set up for that day. She texted me the day before to make sure where we would meet. She called us. This is not normal for the brand new investigator-missionary relationship ha. SO- we met on Thursday in this amazingly rad cafe on the Rynek, and had a super good meeting, and it ended asking if we could meet again soon and teach some more. They said they would like to, and that we'd be in touch. We were so happy after that meeting, and looked forward to setting up later in the week. You can imagine our amazing shock and happiness, when a mere 6 hours later Beata texts us and says, "So I'm thinking it would be good to meet this next weekend if that's possible?" We can't wait to meet with them again ha. They are sooooooo cool. Goodness.
2nd amazing experience was when we had our meeting with Bogdan. He won't be baptized today- we're hoping next week will be enough time. But, we had Brat Magnuski on the lesson. Bogdan had tons of questions, and as he asked one question, Brat Magnuski would answer it so skillfully with clear, beautiful Polish and Bogdan had all his questions answered, by a Pole. With the power of God. It was amazing to hear him explain the Gospel to Bogdan, and to see Bogdan take it all in. Brat Magnuski is the 13th member of the church here in Poland and the oldest active member by far. He is an amazing example to me of what Gospel knowledge can be if we study everyday, if we ask questions and find the answers. It was powerful.
I've got to wrap this thing up- we've got Sports Saturday in a second here (going to play some basketball...so excited!), but I quickly have to recount yesterdays day. Because it was hilarious. It was the Sisters conference for all Sister Missionaries in the mission home, and President Elder Mehner, and I were the cooks. We got there at 10 AM, and left at 23:00. The entire time in the kitchen. It was insane. But we made some darn good food ha. I'm so glad it's over though. It was good in the moment, but 13 more hours in the kitchen might do me in. :P President is a man of many talents- I'll send you pictures from everything. We made burritos, as hard core as you can possibly imagine, curry, naleśniki, amazing chocolate cream cakes, and then washed 203204934 dishes. It was worth it though. :)
Ok I've got to sign off, but we'll be talking tomorrow! Woooo! Can't wait to hear from you. Happy mothers day mama :) You really are the best mother in the entire world. Your example of love, true dedication to our family is something I will always remember for eternity. I love you so much :) Thank you for everything you do, have done for me. I love you from the bottom of my heart.
I love being here. It is the best. Each day is a new day and adventure. Carpe diem.
Elder Michael Rushton
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Sto lat
Dear Fam :)
Thank you so much for the birthday wishes and love. I felt it all the way across the sea, each hug and kiss. I imagined myself yesterday that you all were singing happy birthday to me. It was a very nice thought, and your letters are the best present a kid could ask for, to be completely honest. You are the best, ever. The well of support and love you have shown me for the past however many months runs deeper then I could have imagined and it simply means a lot to me. Thank you for every word and letter. Mama, I appreciate the letter so much. I constantly think at how lucky I am to have a mother like you. Pa, it really is unbelievable that you haven't missed a single week. It's miraculous. You are an amazing example to me of what a father should be. Spencer, I loved your letter so much. It means so much that you take the time to write me and tell me what's happening in your life. I pray that you will have an amazing week. I can't wait to hang out with you kid. Sarah, you never need to feel like a lame little sister, because you and annie are the best there ever were. No one's little sisters write them like mine write me. You are super humans, and I love you so much. Annie, you sound like you are rocking the world. I hope you are feeling happy as can be. I love you all so much.
Birthdays on the mission, are as you can imagine, pretty much like any other day, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. We had driven to Kraków the night before to exchange with the missionaries there. The day was spent in Kraków, whiteboarding, and visiting investigators. We ate at the magnificent Babcia Malina's restuarant, and enjoyed ourselves. Elder Mehner and I made the 4 hour drive home, loving every minute of it. We shared life stories, laughed a lot, and just had a good time. I love Elder Mehner. He is a best friend, and a brother. He is, like most of my best friends, the epitomy of genuinity.
As we were talking yesterday, I got on the subject of who my really good friends from home were, and what kind of an experience college was for me. I got emotional talking about Jake, and Jimmy, Kory and Ryan- people who have always been there for me, who have been examples for me, and who are just simply the best friends a kid could ask for. I told Elder Mehner how just knowing them and knowing the kind of missionaries they are makes me want to be a better missionary, and helps me realize the kind of missionary I should be. Low and behold Jake is now an Assistant to the President, which just made me smile- I know Jakey boy is the Lord's missionary and is doing everything he can to serve our Father. I am so proud to be a missionary and to be part of this mission. Not just the Poland Mission (which I am very proud of) but the mission of Jesus Christ. It's amazing to know there are missionaries all over the world doing their best. The thought of it just makes me happy.
I've also come to realize that I've been blessed throughout my life with examples of true men of God. From my own imediate family to the leaders I've had in the Church. I've been blessed beyond measure, and I feel so grateful for that.
The mission is doing so amazingly well. It's a powerful experience to hear of all the successes that the Lord has caused to be wrought here in this country. One of our investigators, Marek, has decided to prepare himself to baptism. He is a 28 year old man, who is a solid guy. Each investigator has his or her own concerns and problems- Bogdan, Tomek and Marek are all preparing themselves to baptism, and we are doing everything we can to help them feel ready, and spiritually prepared to be baptized by that day. None of them are 100 percent convinced that they will be baptized on their own date, but I know they can. Elder Mehner knows they can. We're doing our best to have members on the lessons to support and guide them. We are doing our best to testify with the power of the Spirit, and pray for them. They need all the prayers they can get. I feel like each one is my brother- I desire so deeply to see them taste of the Gospel and feel the blessings that come from baptism. Please pray for them.
We just recieved confirmation from Salt Lake that Elder Hales will be broadcasting with us live on June 4th, for a MISSION CONFERENCE! here in Warszawa. We are so stoked! It's going to be the most amazing thing ever. I don't know if I ever told you, but the day that I came into the mission, Elder Perry was leaving it ha. And so we barely missed him, but now we're going to have a live Broadcast with Elder Robert D. Hales, who was President Engbjerg's mission President back in the day. Everyone can hardly wait. The month of June is going to be a month of Miracles- so will the month of may for that matter. There are almost 20 people preparing themselves to be baptized throughout the mission right now. 3 weeks ago, there were 4 people. Amazing things are happening :)
The Neiman's- my mission grandparents from Katowice, just walked into the office for a meeting today. It's always so nice to see them. Senior missionaries are as solid as can be. Especially the Neimans. They are hardcore missionaries, and I love them. It makes me breath a little more evenly knowing that they are in Katowice and will be there for quite awhile.
This last week was simply a busy one. Monday was the Standard of Excellence dinner at the Mission Home. It was delicious as usual- we had to do some solid cooking (i'm getting way good at making this carrot salad. I can make a carrot salad like nobody's business), and then some solid cleaning up afterward. We then had to prepare the Dobra Strona for the next day...so we didn't get to bed until 3:00 am, and then the next day we took off to Kielce for an exchange. The Kielce elders, Elder Tribe and Elder Nielson, are amazing. Elder Tribe barely has 5 months in the country and elder Nielson is halfway through his second transfer, so they are you as can be, but in that little city with only 4 members, they are working their heart out. I love and respect them for the work they do. They know what missionary work is all about, and are sincerely trying. We found 13 contacts together, which is always exciting. 13 potentials for baptism there in Kielce. I do love that place. It's an amazing experience driving through the Polish forests and grassland- it's so gorgeous. And the sunsets are starting to become more and more colorful. A true divine sign.
This was the week I was supposed to go on interviews with President, but we had to move it to next week- so next week we will be driving all across Poland, seeing the Southern and Eastern part of Poland and the missionaries there. It'll be an amazing experience without a doubt.
Ok. There is a full blown senior missionary party going on in this room where I'm trying to write, so focus is low. ha. I love em to death. They're telling me all about marriage and confirmations from the Spirit, and all sorts of stuff I'm not thinking about for 2 more months haha. I really do love the elder generation. They are so wise and equally hilarious. They just know how to laugh :)
We're going to play Sport's saturday with a bunch of investigators and members and missionaries. Just like I used to do for every single p-day when i was last in Warsaw. I really miss playing soccer- it'll be so fun to go and play today.
Yesterday was also one of the most beautiful, sunny days we've had in a long time here in Poland. It's little colder today, but it's ok. All I need is a few more sunny days like that to make me happy. :)
I pray all is going well at home. You all seem happy as can be, and I love to hear that. I look forward to writing you next week, and telling you about the trip with President. I do my best to remember everything, but I simply get tired these days and it's more difficult to remember everything I want to say. I'll try to write a list :)
I love you so much, I can't believe i'm 21. That feels way older then I really am ha. I love my mission and my Savior. Everyday is an adventure, and a blessing. No one except God knows the miracles that can happen in a given day. We just need to do our part, and He works the rest.
So much love, thank you to everyone who wrote me a little birthday note. It means a lot :) I miss and love you all.
z ogromną miłością,
Elder Michael
Thank you so much for the birthday wishes and love. I felt it all the way across the sea, each hug and kiss. I imagined myself yesterday that you all were singing happy birthday to me. It was a very nice thought, and your letters are the best present a kid could ask for, to be completely honest. You are the best, ever. The well of support and love you have shown me for the past however many months runs deeper then I could have imagined and it simply means a lot to me. Thank you for every word and letter. Mama, I appreciate the letter so much. I constantly think at how lucky I am to have a mother like you. Pa, it really is unbelievable that you haven't missed a single week. It's miraculous. You are an amazing example to me of what a father should be. Spencer, I loved your letter so much. It means so much that you take the time to write me and tell me what's happening in your life. I pray that you will have an amazing week. I can't wait to hang out with you kid. Sarah, you never need to feel like a lame little sister, because you and annie are the best there ever were. No one's little sisters write them like mine write me. You are super humans, and I love you so much. Annie, you sound like you are rocking the world. I hope you are feeling happy as can be. I love you all so much.
Birthdays on the mission, are as you can imagine, pretty much like any other day, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. We had driven to Kraków the night before to exchange with the missionaries there. The day was spent in Kraków, whiteboarding, and visiting investigators. We ate at the magnificent Babcia Malina's restuarant, and enjoyed ourselves. Elder Mehner and I made the 4 hour drive home, loving every minute of it. We shared life stories, laughed a lot, and just had a good time. I love Elder Mehner. He is a best friend, and a brother. He is, like most of my best friends, the epitomy of genuinity.
As we were talking yesterday, I got on the subject of who my really good friends from home were, and what kind of an experience college was for me. I got emotional talking about Jake, and Jimmy, Kory and Ryan- people who have always been there for me, who have been examples for me, and who are just simply the best friends a kid could ask for. I told Elder Mehner how just knowing them and knowing the kind of missionaries they are makes me want to be a better missionary, and helps me realize the kind of missionary I should be. Low and behold Jake is now an Assistant to the President, which just made me smile- I know Jakey boy is the Lord's missionary and is doing everything he can to serve our Father. I am so proud to be a missionary and to be part of this mission. Not just the Poland Mission (which I am very proud of) but the mission of Jesus Christ. It's amazing to know there are missionaries all over the world doing their best. The thought of it just makes me happy.
I've also come to realize that I've been blessed throughout my life with examples of true men of God. From my own imediate family to the leaders I've had in the Church. I've been blessed beyond measure, and I feel so grateful for that.
The mission is doing so amazingly well. It's a powerful experience to hear of all the successes that the Lord has caused to be wrought here in this country. One of our investigators, Marek, has decided to prepare himself to baptism. He is a 28 year old man, who is a solid guy. Each investigator has his or her own concerns and problems- Bogdan, Tomek and Marek are all preparing themselves to baptism, and we are doing everything we can to help them feel ready, and spiritually prepared to be baptized by that day. None of them are 100 percent convinced that they will be baptized on their own date, but I know they can. Elder Mehner knows they can. We're doing our best to have members on the lessons to support and guide them. We are doing our best to testify with the power of the Spirit, and pray for them. They need all the prayers they can get. I feel like each one is my brother- I desire so deeply to see them taste of the Gospel and feel the blessings that come from baptism. Please pray for them.
We just recieved confirmation from Salt Lake that Elder Hales will be broadcasting with us live on June 4th, for a MISSION CONFERENCE! here in Warszawa. We are so stoked! It's going to be the most amazing thing ever. I don't know if I ever told you, but the day that I came into the mission, Elder Perry was leaving it ha. And so we barely missed him, but now we're going to have a live Broadcast with Elder Robert D. Hales, who was President Engbjerg's mission President back in the day. Everyone can hardly wait. The month of June is going to be a month of Miracles- so will the month of may for that matter. There are almost 20 people preparing themselves to be baptized throughout the mission right now. 3 weeks ago, there were 4 people. Amazing things are happening :)
The Neiman's- my mission grandparents from Katowice, just walked into the office for a meeting today. It's always so nice to see them. Senior missionaries are as solid as can be. Especially the Neimans. They are hardcore missionaries, and I love them. It makes me breath a little more evenly knowing that they are in Katowice and will be there for quite awhile.
This last week was simply a busy one. Monday was the Standard of Excellence dinner at the Mission Home. It was delicious as usual- we had to do some solid cooking (i'm getting way good at making this carrot salad. I can make a carrot salad like nobody's business), and then some solid cleaning up afterward. We then had to prepare the Dobra Strona for the next day...so we didn't get to bed until 3:00 am, and then the next day we took off to Kielce for an exchange. The Kielce elders, Elder Tribe and Elder Nielson, are amazing. Elder Tribe barely has 5 months in the country and elder Nielson is halfway through his second transfer, so they are you as can be, but in that little city with only 4 members, they are working their heart out. I love and respect them for the work they do. They know what missionary work is all about, and are sincerely trying. We found 13 contacts together, which is always exciting. 13 potentials for baptism there in Kielce. I do love that place. It's an amazing experience driving through the Polish forests and grassland- it's so gorgeous. And the sunsets are starting to become more and more colorful. A true divine sign.
This was the week I was supposed to go on interviews with President, but we had to move it to next week- so next week we will be driving all across Poland, seeing the Southern and Eastern part of Poland and the missionaries there. It'll be an amazing experience without a doubt.
Ok. There is a full blown senior missionary party going on in this room where I'm trying to write, so focus is low. ha. I love em to death. They're telling me all about marriage and confirmations from the Spirit, and all sorts of stuff I'm not thinking about for 2 more months haha. I really do love the elder generation. They are so wise and equally hilarious. They just know how to laugh :)
We're going to play Sport's saturday with a bunch of investigators and members and missionaries. Just like I used to do for every single p-day when i was last in Warsaw. I really miss playing soccer- it'll be so fun to go and play today.
Yesterday was also one of the most beautiful, sunny days we've had in a long time here in Poland. It's little colder today, but it's ok. All I need is a few more sunny days like that to make me happy. :)
I pray all is going well at home. You all seem happy as can be, and I love to hear that. I look forward to writing you next week, and telling you about the trip with President. I do my best to remember everything, but I simply get tired these days and it's more difficult to remember everything I want to say. I'll try to write a list :)
I love you so much, I can't believe i'm 21. That feels way older then I really am ha. I love my mission and my Savior. Everyday is an adventure, and a blessing. No one except God knows the miracles that can happen in a given day. We just need to do our part, and He works the rest.
So much love, thank you to everyone who wrote me a little birthday note. It means a lot :) I miss and love you all.
z ogromną miłością,
Elder Michael
Zone Conference Galore-April 23, 2010
Dearest family of mine :)
It's a beautiful day today, and I am fully enjoying my day of preperation and relaxation ha, and the opportunity to write to you all. I'm sitting in the same library from whence I sent my very first e-mail of my mission. It's relatively close to our house, and much closer to Centrum then the office is, so we decided to take advantage of it today. It's still as peaceful and enjoyable, and free, as ever. It's amazing to think that all those months ago, I sat here for the first time, not having any idea what the Lord had in store for me, how many amazing people I would meet, or all the lessons I would learn, and more then anything how much I would come to love being a missionary, and seeing people change their lives and become happier. It's been the most amazing ride of my entire life- somedays I can't even comprehend how blessed I am to have this opportunity, to be here in Poland at the pioneer stages of the church, seeing these men and women (members) do the most superhuman things I can imagine in building the church here in this beautiful country. It is a blessing to be here and to serve them, and the Polish people.
Happy anniversary ma and pa! How amazing is that. 22 years ha. You, my parents, have always given me such an amazing example of what a marriage is supposed to be about, always supporting and loving eachother, and doing your very best to love us and help us as your children be the best we can. I love the story of how you met and were married, and now 22 years later the story lives on. I pray that someday I will find someone I can love as much as you love eachother and that I'll have a marriage just like yours. I know of course that the Gospel is the foundation to a happy family, and that is obvious in our family. 22 years is such a long time. Ha it's a litlle bit more then my entire life ha :P I've seen so many times here how marriages can fall apart, how people can find fault with eachother if they want to- for so many a happy family is nothing less then an extravagent fairy tale. I'm so glad to know that it's more than just that, that because of the Gospel, and it's guidance we can have the most amazing and happy families, forever. Yes. :)
I have the strange feeling that I sound like an old man sometimes when I write these letters ha. I'm waxing boring in my old months here ha. The thing is, crazy junk happens all the time to me, I just am not half as phased by it now as I was once upon a time ha. I need to do better at remembering the little neat things that happen....this last week in general was something completely new and different than anything I have experienced thus far on my mission- allow me to digress.
Zone Conferences are one of the things that I always looked forward to, because they are always so inspiring and building and I felt like I always gained some new and life-changing perspecitve from them. They were always amazing, but never did I really take into consideration how much planning and meticulousness goes into planning those bad boys. In this week, we had three Zone Conferneces - one for the Katowice Zone, one for the Bydgoszcz Zone and one for the Warszawa Zone. Monday, Wednesday and Friday each with it's own conference in a different city.
Monday morning we woke up at the crack of dawn to make it to Katowice on time. We made it, with a few minutes to spare. Elder Mehner and I did the brunt of the driving so President and Sister Engbjerg could finish preparing their thougts. (Side note- President's car hauls. It is insane ha.) It always is refreshing as can be going back to that city. I just love it. That's all there is to it.
The Conference went so well, I was amazingly pleased by it all. President and Sister Engbjerg both spoke about the Atonement of Jesus Christ and it was very powerful. We as a mission are going to begin a 2 month study of the Atonement. It'll be really neat :) Elder Mehner and I presented a new teaching tool, called Heber C. Kimball firesides. The basics of the Gospel are taught by four missionaries, and at the end everyone present is invited to be Baptized. They did it all the time in President Engbjerg's mission, and we flet it would be an amazing thing to try out. We are working on being much more bold in inviting everyone to be baptized, because afterall we know that for a man to enter into the Kingodm of God he must be born of water and the Spirit. So, we're not doing anyone favors not inviting them to be baptized. It's something the mission is embracing really well, and I thinik the results with be widoczny. Visible.
Elder Beaty from my group is one of the Zone Leaders there in Katowice, and he gave a short thought about how Dan Jones was called of God to preach the Gospel and he knew it. It was the last prophecy uttered from the mouth of Joseph Smith, and when some weeks later the call was issued to him, he knew it was from God, without a doubt and he was there to preach and baptize. Our calls are, in the exact same way issued from the mouth of God, through a Prophet, and there are people here, and everywhere who need to here this message. It really hit my hard.
It'll take me 35 years to explain each and every amazing part of each Zone Conference, but as a disclaimer, they were all brilliant, and uplifting, because of the missionaries and their input and desire to embrace everyhting being taught.
The Katowice Zone especially just jumped on everything and were so excited to try out the Firesides, and also to embrace the new Mission Standard of Excellence which was the result of an challenge given by the Area Presidency to all mission presidents in Europe to create standard of excellences. President Engbjerg has had them in this mission since 2 weeks after he got here, but a Mission Standard of excellence was never erected, until that last Zone Leader Meeting we had, and then it was presented this Zone Conference. AGH! So much happens, the days just blend into one sometimes. Forgive me iff something is unclear.
I had the feeling being in that Kato Zone, that they could really be a Consecrated Zone, where each and every missionary is giving his all to serve the Lord and these people, striving each day to be better. I felt like my South Central District here was "consecrated" in hat way, as well as my Katowice district. There is no better feeling then to know that everyone on your team is leaving it all on the field. When the game is over, that have to be taken away in strechers. I hope my family, that they take me on that plane in a stretcher.
The Bydgoszcz Zone conference was held in Gdańsk. the beatiful city by the bay. We drove up the night before and stayed in a hotel. It was so pretty, and in the morning we went running with President on the Beach. It was the best. The breakfast was something out of this planet. We have to go there when we come back. You will love it :)
The Zone Conference in Gdańsk was also incredibly uplifting, and enjoyable as can be. It's so good to see all these missionaries, and the desire they have to serve and be good missionaries.
A recent convert, Kazimierz Kempa, spoke during the conference, and it was really neat. Everyone really enjoyed hearing about his experiences, and it is always inspiring to see a recent convert with so much fire and desire to help with missionary work.
At the end of the Bydgoszcz Zone conference, I was feeling simply exhausted. It amazes me so much how President has done this for 3 years, traveling all over this entire country to support and love these missionaries, me included. He is a super hero. Standing up and talking to people, driving, and organizing really took the energy right out of me. I was done for, and loved the little break we had on thursday to teach our investigators back here at home in Warsaw.
We're meeting with Tomek tonight- he's a good man and really loves meetings with Brat Herman. WE're going to see how he's doing with his concerns- he knows the Gospel is true, just worries he won't be able to live up to it I think. Be he too will be baptized- he's got another month to prepare :)
Yesterday was the last of the 3 conferences, and it was a very good one. We had it in the Relief Society room because the Zone is so small these days. It was kind of bizarre, but really cozy, and enjoyable. Agnieszka Kowalska, another recent convert, spoke to us and it was really building and inspiring. I loved it :) SHe has such a sweet spirit and is helping us a lot with teaching Bogdan.
I feel really close to all the missionaries in the Zone, especially in the 2 warsaw distrticts, which is really nice. I love being around them all and they really are good good missionaries. I hope not much changes in terms of transfers happen before the end of my mission. Everyone is really really working well with eachother. We'll see what the Lord has in store.
I admit I felt amazing relief a the end of them all- it was an amazing experience, but so exhausting. I loved each day though. I learned a lot, was very inspirited from just sseeing all the missionaries, and I really look forward to the next two months. There is so much to do. So little time.
The mission is really doing well, people are teaching often, and there are several people commited to baptism, who are doing their best to prepare for that. I know there will be several miracles before the end of President's time here.
Family, I pray this next week is amazing for you all. It sounds like all is well, and everyone is loving life. I pray for you each and everyday and I can feel the effect of your prayers here. These people need them. I love the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the power it has in our lives when we will simply live by it. It is so simple, and brings so much peace. I love each one of you with all my heart. Enjoy the sun :)
z miłością ogromną,
Starszy Michael
It's a beautiful day today, and I am fully enjoying my day of preperation and relaxation ha, and the opportunity to write to you all. I'm sitting in the same library from whence I sent my very first e-mail of my mission. It's relatively close to our house, and much closer to Centrum then the office is, so we decided to take advantage of it today. It's still as peaceful and enjoyable, and free, as ever. It's amazing to think that all those months ago, I sat here for the first time, not having any idea what the Lord had in store for me, how many amazing people I would meet, or all the lessons I would learn, and more then anything how much I would come to love being a missionary, and seeing people change their lives and become happier. It's been the most amazing ride of my entire life- somedays I can't even comprehend how blessed I am to have this opportunity, to be here in Poland at the pioneer stages of the church, seeing these men and women (members) do the most superhuman things I can imagine in building the church here in this beautiful country. It is a blessing to be here and to serve them, and the Polish people.
Happy anniversary ma and pa! How amazing is that. 22 years ha. You, my parents, have always given me such an amazing example of what a marriage is supposed to be about, always supporting and loving eachother, and doing your very best to love us and help us as your children be the best we can. I love the story of how you met and were married, and now 22 years later the story lives on. I pray that someday I will find someone I can love as much as you love eachother and that I'll have a marriage just like yours. I know of course that the Gospel is the foundation to a happy family, and that is obvious in our family. 22 years is such a long time. Ha it's a litlle bit more then my entire life ha :P I've seen so many times here how marriages can fall apart, how people can find fault with eachother if they want to- for so many a happy family is nothing less then an extravagent fairy tale. I'm so glad to know that it's more than just that, that because of the Gospel, and it's guidance we can have the most amazing and happy families, forever. Yes. :)
I have the strange feeling that I sound like an old man sometimes when I write these letters ha. I'm waxing boring in my old months here ha. The thing is, crazy junk happens all the time to me, I just am not half as phased by it now as I was once upon a time ha. I need to do better at remembering the little neat things that happen....this last week in general was something completely new and different than anything I have experienced thus far on my mission- allow me to digress.
Zone Conferences are one of the things that I always looked forward to, because they are always so inspiring and building and I felt like I always gained some new and life-changing perspecitve from them. They were always amazing, but never did I really take into consideration how much planning and meticulousness goes into planning those bad boys. In this week, we had three Zone Conferneces - one for the Katowice Zone, one for the Bydgoszcz Zone and one for the Warszawa Zone. Monday, Wednesday and Friday each with it's own conference in a different city.
Monday morning we woke up at the crack of dawn to make it to Katowice on time. We made it, with a few minutes to spare. Elder Mehner and I did the brunt of the driving so President and Sister Engbjerg could finish preparing their thougts. (Side note- President's car hauls. It is insane ha.) It always is refreshing as can be going back to that city. I just love it. That's all there is to it.
The Conference went so well, I was amazingly pleased by it all. President and Sister Engbjerg both spoke about the Atonement of Jesus Christ and it was very powerful. We as a mission are going to begin a 2 month study of the Atonement. It'll be really neat :) Elder Mehner and I presented a new teaching tool, called Heber C. Kimball firesides. The basics of the Gospel are taught by four missionaries, and at the end everyone present is invited to be Baptized. They did it all the time in President Engbjerg's mission, and we flet it would be an amazing thing to try out. We are working on being much more bold in inviting everyone to be baptized, because afterall we know that for a man to enter into the Kingodm of God he must be born of water and the Spirit. So, we're not doing anyone favors not inviting them to be baptized. It's something the mission is embracing really well, and I thinik the results with be widoczny. Visible.
Elder Beaty from my group is one of the Zone Leaders there in Katowice, and he gave a short thought about how Dan Jones was called of God to preach the Gospel and he knew it. It was the last prophecy uttered from the mouth of Joseph Smith, and when some weeks later the call was issued to him, he knew it was from God, without a doubt and he was there to preach and baptize. Our calls are, in the exact same way issued from the mouth of God, through a Prophet, and there are people here, and everywhere who need to here this message. It really hit my hard.
It'll take me 35 years to explain each and every amazing part of each Zone Conference, but as a disclaimer, they were all brilliant, and uplifting, because of the missionaries and their input and desire to embrace everyhting being taught.
The Katowice Zone especially just jumped on everything and were so excited to try out the Firesides, and also to embrace the new Mission Standard of Excellence which was the result of an challenge given by the Area Presidency to all mission presidents in Europe to create standard of excellences. President Engbjerg has had them in this mission since 2 weeks after he got here, but a Mission Standard of excellence was never erected, until that last Zone Leader Meeting we had, and then it was presented this Zone Conference. AGH! So much happens, the days just blend into one sometimes. Forgive me iff something is unclear.
I had the feeling being in that Kato Zone, that they could really be a Consecrated Zone, where each and every missionary is giving his all to serve the Lord and these people, striving each day to be better. I felt like my South Central District here was "consecrated" in hat way, as well as my Katowice district. There is no better feeling then to know that everyone on your team is leaving it all on the field. When the game is over, that have to be taken away in strechers. I hope my family, that they take me on that plane in a stretcher.
The Bydgoszcz Zone conference was held in Gdańsk. the beatiful city by the bay. We drove up the night before and stayed in a hotel. It was so pretty, and in the morning we went running with President on the Beach. It was the best. The breakfast was something out of this planet. We have to go there when we come back. You will love it :)
The Zone Conference in Gdańsk was also incredibly uplifting, and enjoyable as can be. It's so good to see all these missionaries, and the desire they have to serve and be good missionaries.
A recent convert, Kazimierz Kempa, spoke during the conference, and it was really neat. Everyone really enjoyed hearing about his experiences, and it is always inspiring to see a recent convert with so much fire and desire to help with missionary work.
At the end of the Bydgoszcz Zone conference, I was feeling simply exhausted. It amazes me so much how President has done this for 3 years, traveling all over this entire country to support and love these missionaries, me included. He is a super hero. Standing up and talking to people, driving, and organizing really took the energy right out of me. I was done for, and loved the little break we had on thursday to teach our investigators back here at home in Warsaw.
We're meeting with Tomek tonight- he's a good man and really loves meetings with Brat Herman. WE're going to see how he's doing with his concerns- he knows the Gospel is true, just worries he won't be able to live up to it I think. Be he too will be baptized- he's got another month to prepare :)
Yesterday was the last of the 3 conferences, and it was a very good one. We had it in the Relief Society room because the Zone is so small these days. It was kind of bizarre, but really cozy, and enjoyable. Agnieszka Kowalska, another recent convert, spoke to us and it was really building and inspiring. I loved it :) SHe has such a sweet spirit and is helping us a lot with teaching Bogdan.
I feel really close to all the missionaries in the Zone, especially in the 2 warsaw distrticts, which is really nice. I love being around them all and they really are good good missionaries. I hope not much changes in terms of transfers happen before the end of my mission. Everyone is really really working well with eachother. We'll see what the Lord has in store.
I admit I felt amazing relief a the end of them all- it was an amazing experience, but so exhausting. I loved each day though. I learned a lot, was very inspirited from just sseeing all the missionaries, and I really look forward to the next two months. There is so much to do. So little time.
The mission is really doing well, people are teaching often, and there are several people commited to baptism, who are doing their best to prepare for that. I know there will be several miracles before the end of President's time here.
Family, I pray this next week is amazing for you all. It sounds like all is well, and everyone is loving life. I pray for you each and everyday and I can feel the effect of your prayers here. These people need them. I love the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the power it has in our lives when we will simply live by it. It is so simple, and brings so much peace. I love each one of you with all my heart. Enjoy the sun :)
z miłością ogromną,
Starszy Michael
April 9, 2010
Dearest Family :)
It's so good to read those e-mails. I love them to death, every week. Pop, I appreciate the "preaching" more then you know. I've thought a lot about what I want to do when I go home, and it's a struggle in my heart and mind. I'm definitely going to need the Lord's help on it. I loved reading your story so much about how you found out about it all. In fact, I always love reading any story you write. They are my "movies" for these last two years. I can see each sentence so vividly played out in my mind, and I love it. Thank you, both for taking the time to write me like you do every week. It means so much to me, I can't even express. Ma, I appreicate the letter so much, as usual :) I just read the hand-written letter you wrote as well. I loved your insights, and wisdom, and I can always sense how much you love me. That means so much. You are the best parents. Period.
Again, I'm not going to have much time to write today (kind of a trend eh? haha). Elder Mehner went with President today to Gdańsk for a baptism that will be held today, and Elder Handley (one of the Office Elders) also went with them. I am here today with Elder Owen, and on this very day, Elder Owen's parents are going to be here in Poland! That's crazy eh? This is like the 3rd set of parents I've seen in the past 3 weeks. Luckily it doesn't really trunk me out to bad ha. 3 months is not a long time, and I know how much I'm going to miss Poland when the end of this time comes, so I've got to make the most out of it I can. But we're going to the airport to pick them up at 10:50. They were in Prague for business, and they asked President Engbjerg if they could see their son while they were so close, and President is really kind like that, and agreed. So, that's the plan today. ha. Absolute craziness. I look forward to the chance to come back someday soon with you all and experience that same thing.
My life is without a doubt busier then it has ever been, and in a different way then I've been used to for the past year and a half out here on the mission. The days where all I had to do was focus on investigators and how they are progressing is gone- our priorities are with President, with making the mission better, and more excited and then with our investigators in the last slot. Which is really difficult for me, just like I knew it was for Elder McRae. In spite of that, we've had a couple of really amazing meetings with our investigators, and I'm really proud of a couple of them. I do love being here, and I'm getting a hold of the craziness of the schedule, and all the different responsibilities that lay on our shoulders, and it is a very uplifting experience in the end. Every day is a new adventure with tons of neat learning and growing experiences. I am humbled on a dailt basis, and am grateful for it.
Tomek Procheńka has a baptismal date for the 5th of June, which is decently far away, but this is a big deal for him. This is the Tomek that I wrote about the last time I served in Warsaw. The man is one of my favorites. He is kind, sincere, and really desires to be a member of this church, and we just have to prepare him to his Baptismal date. We had a solid lesson with him and Brat Herman, and in general it went wonderfully.
Just a bit more about Brat Herman. He is absolutely hilarious, and is one of my best friends here in Poland. He has an amazing sense of humor and reminds me a lot of Uncle Randy, but 10 years older, and with a bit more Polish mentality. He's a very street smart man, and just funny as can be. He wants to write a song with Elder Mehner and I, called Nie jest grzechem mieć 16 lat. It's not a sin to be 16. Ha. It's going to be about the church, it'll be great. Love the man. He's the ward mission leader and is trying his best to do his job. We're doing our best to try and help him do his job.
Bogdan, the middle-aged very intelligent man who wears glasses is absolutely amazing as well, and he decided to take a baptismal date for the 8th of May. I'm excited for the man and I know he will be baptized when the date comes, but he needs all the prayers he can get. He's a major intellectual and knows the BIble like the back of his hand, and he just needs to be able to feel it a little bit stronger in his heart. Please pray for him. He's showing the faith, and I know the Lord will bless him.
We're trying to go on exchanges, or at least reach every single missionary companionship in the mission, which is a lot easier considering how small the mission is. Yesterday I went on exchanges with Elder Taylor, and that was a blast. He's been in Poland for about 3 months. It blows my mind that I've been here for so long. I can't even comprehend it. I feel like one day I was here for a year, and the next, I have 3 months left. Crimany.
I read this talk by Elder A. Dyer, I think he was an apostle, or secretary to the first Presidency. Anyway, he gave a fire&brimstone talk about being a Challenging and Testifying missionary, and Elder Mehner and I are addicted to it. It's one of the greatest things we've read, outside of General Conference, and we're going to share it as we go on exchanges, and interview trips.
Interview trips will be happening the next couple of weeks. One of us will go with President all over Poland, visiting districts and I am so excited for that. It'll be an amazing time and experience.
A bit about Elder Mehner. I was Trained in the South Central District, and 2 months later, Elder Mehner was trained by Elder Antczak in the Mokotów District (both districts in the same ward). We spent a lot of time together and I always really respected and loved Elder Mehner, and since I lift Warsaw, I always loved seeing him at Conferences and random meetings, and I love his trash. He's a really good man, who is just down to business, but so funny and I just respect him a lot. He's from Oklahoma, and is going to BYU-Idaho. He is the man.
We live in a housing tract called Wilanów. It's one of the nicer ones in all of Poland. We have an underground parking garage (:P) and then we live on the ground floor of the building. Our beds are nice, and basically we in this mission are spoiled. Excepts my first apartment, all my apartments have been really nice. Most are throughout the mission. We are spolied. What happened to the days where missionaries had to find lodging with the investigators????!?!?!? (ha. Whoo. Glad we have an apartment.)
Ok, I've got to leave, but I love you tons. This next week should be an amazing one. I'm going to do better at writing down specific experiences that I've had during the week. I feel like it's so hard to remember these days. I love being on a mission. I love preaching truth to people and seeing them change their lives.
I talked to Dominik Rędziński from Kato- he just got the Aaronic Priesthood. :) So good to hear things like that. Ok, I've got to sign off. I love you family so much. You all are the best.
Elder Rushton
p.s. I'm sorry my letters are slowly becoming less interesting. Any questions you have, just ask. I'll do my best to shard more experiences. Love you so.
It's so good to read those e-mails. I love them to death, every week. Pop, I appreciate the "preaching" more then you know. I've thought a lot about what I want to do when I go home, and it's a struggle in my heart and mind. I'm definitely going to need the Lord's help on it. I loved reading your story so much about how you found out about it all. In fact, I always love reading any story you write. They are my "movies" for these last two years. I can see each sentence so vividly played out in my mind, and I love it. Thank you, both for taking the time to write me like you do every week. It means so much to me, I can't even express. Ma, I appreicate the letter so much, as usual :) I just read the hand-written letter you wrote as well. I loved your insights, and wisdom, and I can always sense how much you love me. That means so much. You are the best parents. Period.
Again, I'm not going to have much time to write today (kind of a trend eh? haha). Elder Mehner went with President today to Gdańsk for a baptism that will be held today, and Elder Handley (one of the Office Elders) also went with them. I am here today with Elder Owen, and on this very day, Elder Owen's parents are going to be here in Poland! That's crazy eh? This is like the 3rd set of parents I've seen in the past 3 weeks. Luckily it doesn't really trunk me out to bad ha. 3 months is not a long time, and I know how much I'm going to miss Poland when the end of this time comes, so I've got to make the most out of it I can. But we're going to the airport to pick them up at 10:50. They were in Prague for business, and they asked President Engbjerg if they could see their son while they were so close, and President is really kind like that, and agreed. So, that's the plan today. ha. Absolute craziness. I look forward to the chance to come back someday soon with you all and experience that same thing.
My life is without a doubt busier then it has ever been, and in a different way then I've been used to for the past year and a half out here on the mission. The days where all I had to do was focus on investigators and how they are progressing is gone- our priorities are with President, with making the mission better, and more excited and then with our investigators in the last slot. Which is really difficult for me, just like I knew it was for Elder McRae. In spite of that, we've had a couple of really amazing meetings with our investigators, and I'm really proud of a couple of them. I do love being here, and I'm getting a hold of the craziness of the schedule, and all the different responsibilities that lay on our shoulders, and it is a very uplifting experience in the end. Every day is a new adventure with tons of neat learning and growing experiences. I am humbled on a dailt basis, and am grateful for it.
Tomek Procheńka has a baptismal date for the 5th of June, which is decently far away, but this is a big deal for him. This is the Tomek that I wrote about the last time I served in Warsaw. The man is one of my favorites. He is kind, sincere, and really desires to be a member of this church, and we just have to prepare him to his Baptismal date. We had a solid lesson with him and Brat Herman, and in general it went wonderfully.
Just a bit more about Brat Herman. He is absolutely hilarious, and is one of my best friends here in Poland. He has an amazing sense of humor and reminds me a lot of Uncle Randy, but 10 years older, and with a bit more Polish mentality. He's a very street smart man, and just funny as can be. He wants to write a song with Elder Mehner and I, called Nie jest grzechem mieć 16 lat. It's not a sin to be 16. Ha. It's going to be about the church, it'll be great. Love the man. He's the ward mission leader and is trying his best to do his job. We're doing our best to try and help him do his job.
Bogdan, the middle-aged very intelligent man who wears glasses is absolutely amazing as well, and he decided to take a baptismal date for the 8th of May. I'm excited for the man and I know he will be baptized when the date comes, but he needs all the prayers he can get. He's a major intellectual and knows the BIble like the back of his hand, and he just needs to be able to feel it a little bit stronger in his heart. Please pray for him. He's showing the faith, and I know the Lord will bless him.
We're trying to go on exchanges, or at least reach every single missionary companionship in the mission, which is a lot easier considering how small the mission is. Yesterday I went on exchanges with Elder Taylor, and that was a blast. He's been in Poland for about 3 months. It blows my mind that I've been here for so long. I can't even comprehend it. I feel like one day I was here for a year, and the next, I have 3 months left. Crimany.
I read this talk by Elder A. Dyer, I think he was an apostle, or secretary to the first Presidency. Anyway, he gave a fire&brimstone talk about being a Challenging and Testifying missionary, and Elder Mehner and I are addicted to it. It's one of the greatest things we've read, outside of General Conference, and we're going to share it as we go on exchanges, and interview trips.
Interview trips will be happening the next couple of weeks. One of us will go with President all over Poland, visiting districts and I am so excited for that. It'll be an amazing time and experience.
A bit about Elder Mehner. I was Trained in the South Central District, and 2 months later, Elder Mehner was trained by Elder Antczak in the Mokotów District (both districts in the same ward). We spent a lot of time together and I always really respected and loved Elder Mehner, and since I lift Warsaw, I always loved seeing him at Conferences and random meetings, and I love his trash. He's a really good man, who is just down to business, but so funny and I just respect him a lot. He's from Oklahoma, and is going to BYU-Idaho. He is the man.
We live in a housing tract called Wilanów. It's one of the nicer ones in all of Poland. We have an underground parking garage (:P) and then we live on the ground floor of the building. Our beds are nice, and basically we in this mission are spoiled. Excepts my first apartment, all my apartments have been really nice. Most are throughout the mission. We are spolied. What happened to the days where missionaries had to find lodging with the investigators????!?!?!? (ha. Whoo. Glad we have an apartment.)
Ok, I've got to leave, but I love you tons. This next week should be an amazing one. I'm going to do better at writing down specific experiences that I've had during the week. I feel like it's so hard to remember these days. I love being on a mission. I love preaching truth to people and seeing them change their lives.
I talked to Dominik Rędziński from Kato- he just got the Aaronic Priesthood. :) So good to hear things like that. Ok, I've got to sign off. I love you family so much. You all are the best.
Elder Rushton
p.s. I'm sorry my letters are slowly becoming less interesting. Any questions you have, just ask. I'll do my best to shard more experiences. Love you so.
Sunshiny Wielkanoc-April 7, 2010
Dearest Fam -
The sun is shining this beautiful morning, I'm wearing a short sleeved shirt, and am happy as can be. The snow has finally gone away (I can't even express to you my shock when I found out that Winter lasts into April...I could've sworn it was a November - January thing ha. Sweet ignorance in California) and we are happy as can be. Today is the last day of Easter here in Poland. The streets are generally empty, and people are enjoying their last day of freedom before heading back into the real world. Easter in Poland - Wielkanoc- is one of the most celebrated holidays in the country. They have quite a few traditions associated with it, of course theirs Wielki Piątek (Great Friday? I don't know what it's called in English), and then on for the three days of Easter, there are Soldiers in most of the churches standing guard at an altar, or a table with a figure of Christ on it, symbolic of the roman soldiers who watched Jesus' tomb for the 3 days he was actually in it. In churches all over Poland, families bring Easter baskets with eggs, pieces of bread and other random food articles, to the Priest who blesses them sprinkling water over them with this kind of broom-looking thing. Way interesting. People break eggs together and wish eachother happiness, joy, and so many other things. Poles really love to wish each other things. It's one of those things that was probably very strange to me a year and a half ago, but is now pretty much normal. When you have a birthday, and a Pole finds out he turns to you and just starts wishing you "All the best! Health, happiness, many women, a large family, success, and may you always be happy throughout your days!" It's kind of overwhelming. But kind. So that is Easter in Poland for you.
I spent mine watching beloved General Conference for 8 hours, which was incredible. And also a lot of conference, but I very much so did enjoy it. The talks are always so uplifting and leave so much to be applied in our lives so that we may become better sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven. It's amazing how much the Gospel just makes sense. The Gospel really does lead to happiness. The principles and doctrines taught lift up our hearts in joy and cause us to do our best to become the best we possibly can. At one moment in conference, it was just so clear to me that this is what people spend their entire lives looking for. There is no other institution quite like the true Church of Jesus Christ on earth. It is His, for us on the Earth to have direction, peace and joy.
I loved the talk about Patience, and Elder Holland's talk as well was very powerful. He is one of my favorite speakers. I love giving his talks to our investigators. They're face melters. In a good way ha :)
Last night at 10:00 we watched the last session with President and Sister Engbjerg at their house. My eyes were fighting sleep real good, but it was so nice. I drank Elderberry juice. Who knew there was such a thing as an Elderberry. They are pretty amazing :) Elder Hales was President's mission President- he got so excited to listen to him. It was neat to see.
I'm so glad you got to watch that video. It seems like I recorded that forever ago. I do love being a missionary with all my heart. It's like Elder John told me- he wanted to be a doctor because he loved the feeling he had of helping people, and doing good. There's nothing quite as fulfilling as getting to know these people, praying for them, and doing your best to help them become closer the our Father in Heaven. I'm glad I could be in that room with you for a bit. :)
It's true, what Jake said in his letter. The longer I'm out here, I don't really feel more distant from you all. We do a good job of staying in touch through E-mail. I've really barely had a chance to miss you, I've always had such a good chunk of you in these e-mails :) I do miss you though, and love you.
The week was a solid one. We were able to teach quite a few lessons, and meet with some prime people. Tomek Procheńka is doing so well, and will surely be baptized. He has an amazing testimony of the Gospel and simply wants to do what the Lord desires of him. In June he will be baptized, when he can start coming to church every week. He has a strong testimony however, of the truth of this Gospel.
Sylwek is struggling. The tradition of Easter was too great for him to pass up, and as a result we've been out of contact for a few days. He testifies of the truthfulness of this church and the Spirit he feels, yet he lacks the courage to step away from tradition and towards the truth. We're trying to be patient with him, but we feel that he lacks sincerity. We'll see.
We took over one of the sisters investigators, Marek. He comes to church every Sunday, to institute and English class. He is a good investigator who also has a testimony, but is afraid of the pressures of his peer group and his family. I'm excited to meet with him though, he is a very good man. About 28 years old.
We met with Irina this week, and she seems to be doing so much better. It takes time for her to understand gospel concepts, but she understands that she needs to come to church, and she;s promised she'll make the extra effort. The Lord will bless her no doubt- sometimes it takes a bit for recent converts to see how the Lord is, how much He loves, and how much he desires to bless us, but that is very much dependent on our obedience. She is so funny, and I love her. I hope to see her come every week to church.
Elder Mehner and I went out to go on exchanges with the Elders in Białystok- Elder Holden and Elder Allred- this last Friday. It was our first car trip together, about 2 and a half hours away, we drove out in the morning and really enjoyed ourselves. The highways in Poland are kind of ridiculous. Often they are one lane going both directions, and if you want to pass a car, you have to wait until theirs a break in oncoming traffic, and then put it into Sports mode and burn past the car. It's insane sometimes and I was terrified to do it at first, but now it's a piece of cake :P
The Elders out their are doing very well- theirs only two of them, which can be hard, but they really are working hard and have some prime investigators ready for baptism. There are so many ready for baptism in this mission, they just need to show the extra Faith and do it! Pray for them and us to know what to do to help them. Any missionary advice is always readily accepted.
On our way home, we drove to a referral we had received who lived out in the boones. I was afraid to see what the place looked like, but I was pleasently surprised to see one of the nicest mansions I've seen in Poland. The man opened up the door, and I said "Are you Mr. Karol?" He answered in the affirmative. "We're here to give you a Book of Mormon." He got a smile on his face and let us right in. His family was there for the Easter Holiday. They were so kind to us- they gave us tons of food, even Caviar. Ridiculous. They were apparently referred by the man's sister who is a member of the Church in Las Vegas. The older couple, the man who we were referred to, wasn't incredibly interested, but the Son in law seemed to be- we hope he'll give us a call. He's a surgeon working here in Warsaw. That would be an amazing miracle.
I've got to think about this whole school thing and it's freaking me out a bit. I really don't think I want to be an English major anymore. I'm leaning towards...something else. I'd like to take a couple History classes, and (you're going to think this is strange, but) I also want to take a German class. I'm determined to learn German and Spanish in the next couple of years. I'm going to try to earn money to study abroad in Austria in a year. I just came up with this in the last 4 days ha. I'm leaning towards being an optomologist, or some other doctor, or studying business. I'd like to shadow a couple doctors when I come home, and businessmen. So, I think it'd be good for me to take an economics class or something business related to see if I like it or hate it, and on top of that, I could take a history class (in case I want to be a history major...?). I'll have to look at the different classes and send you a seperate e-mail with more clear thoughts on the subject. But I really do want to take a German class. If you could sign me up for a German class and a Polish class, that would be neat. If the Polish isn't legit, I'll drop it. It's so strange to have to think about this kind of thing.
I'm got to wrap this up, but I love you family. Seeing that little family ice-cream eating get together made me so happy. I do have the best family in the whole world. Thank you Grandma Rushton for you're kind and loving words in your letter, I appreciate them so much. Thank you Grandma Diane so much for the card and present. I appreicate you're support very much. It means tons :)
Have an amazing week and pray for us here in Polska. There is so much yet to be done, and we're trying to think in which way we can best motivated and help the mission soar a bit higher. I love you all. Talk to you in a week :)
Elder Michael Rushton
p.s. I'll be in the Office most of the day, so if you want to let me know what you think about my crazy educational ideas I'd love to get some feedback. Thank you mother and father.
The sun is shining this beautiful morning, I'm wearing a short sleeved shirt, and am happy as can be. The snow has finally gone away (I can't even express to you my shock when I found out that Winter lasts into April...I could've sworn it was a November - January thing ha. Sweet ignorance in California) and we are happy as can be. Today is the last day of Easter here in Poland. The streets are generally empty, and people are enjoying their last day of freedom before heading back into the real world. Easter in Poland - Wielkanoc- is one of the most celebrated holidays in the country. They have quite a few traditions associated with it, of course theirs Wielki Piątek (Great Friday? I don't know what it's called in English), and then on for the three days of Easter, there are Soldiers in most of the churches standing guard at an altar, or a table with a figure of Christ on it, symbolic of the roman soldiers who watched Jesus' tomb for the 3 days he was actually in it. In churches all over Poland, families bring Easter baskets with eggs, pieces of bread and other random food articles, to the Priest who blesses them sprinkling water over them with this kind of broom-looking thing. Way interesting. People break eggs together and wish eachother happiness, joy, and so many other things. Poles really love to wish each other things. It's one of those things that was probably very strange to me a year and a half ago, but is now pretty much normal. When you have a birthday, and a Pole finds out he turns to you and just starts wishing you "All the best! Health, happiness, many women, a large family, success, and may you always be happy throughout your days!" It's kind of overwhelming. But kind. So that is Easter in Poland for you.
I spent mine watching beloved General Conference for 8 hours, which was incredible. And also a lot of conference, but I very much so did enjoy it. The talks are always so uplifting and leave so much to be applied in our lives so that we may become better sons and daughters of our Father in Heaven. It's amazing how much the Gospel just makes sense. The Gospel really does lead to happiness. The principles and doctrines taught lift up our hearts in joy and cause us to do our best to become the best we possibly can. At one moment in conference, it was just so clear to me that this is what people spend their entire lives looking for. There is no other institution quite like the true Church of Jesus Christ on earth. It is His, for us on the Earth to have direction, peace and joy.
I loved the talk about Patience, and Elder Holland's talk as well was very powerful. He is one of my favorite speakers. I love giving his talks to our investigators. They're face melters. In a good way ha :)
Last night at 10:00 we watched the last session with President and Sister Engbjerg at their house. My eyes were fighting sleep real good, but it was so nice. I drank Elderberry juice. Who knew there was such a thing as an Elderberry. They are pretty amazing :) Elder Hales was President's mission President- he got so excited to listen to him. It was neat to see.
I'm so glad you got to watch that video. It seems like I recorded that forever ago. I do love being a missionary with all my heart. It's like Elder John told me- he wanted to be a doctor because he loved the feeling he had of helping people, and doing good. There's nothing quite as fulfilling as getting to know these people, praying for them, and doing your best to help them become closer the our Father in Heaven. I'm glad I could be in that room with you for a bit. :)
It's true, what Jake said in his letter. The longer I'm out here, I don't really feel more distant from you all. We do a good job of staying in touch through E-mail. I've really barely had a chance to miss you, I've always had such a good chunk of you in these e-mails :) I do miss you though, and love you.
The week was a solid one. We were able to teach quite a few lessons, and meet with some prime people. Tomek Procheńka is doing so well, and will surely be baptized. He has an amazing testimony of the Gospel and simply wants to do what the Lord desires of him. In June he will be baptized, when he can start coming to church every week. He has a strong testimony however, of the truth of this Gospel.
Sylwek is struggling. The tradition of Easter was too great for him to pass up, and as a result we've been out of contact for a few days. He testifies of the truthfulness of this church and the Spirit he feels, yet he lacks the courage to step away from tradition and towards the truth. We're trying to be patient with him, but we feel that he lacks sincerity. We'll see.
We took over one of the sisters investigators, Marek. He comes to church every Sunday, to institute and English class. He is a good investigator who also has a testimony, but is afraid of the pressures of his peer group and his family. I'm excited to meet with him though, he is a very good man. About 28 years old.
We met with Irina this week, and she seems to be doing so much better. It takes time for her to understand gospel concepts, but she understands that she needs to come to church, and she;s promised she'll make the extra effort. The Lord will bless her no doubt- sometimes it takes a bit for recent converts to see how the Lord is, how much He loves, and how much he desires to bless us, but that is very much dependent on our obedience. She is so funny, and I love her. I hope to see her come every week to church.
Elder Mehner and I went out to go on exchanges with the Elders in Białystok- Elder Holden and Elder Allred- this last Friday. It was our first car trip together, about 2 and a half hours away, we drove out in the morning and really enjoyed ourselves. The highways in Poland are kind of ridiculous. Often they are one lane going both directions, and if you want to pass a car, you have to wait until theirs a break in oncoming traffic, and then put it into Sports mode and burn past the car. It's insane sometimes and I was terrified to do it at first, but now it's a piece of cake :P
The Elders out their are doing very well- theirs only two of them, which can be hard, but they really are working hard and have some prime investigators ready for baptism. There are so many ready for baptism in this mission, they just need to show the extra Faith and do it! Pray for them and us to know what to do to help them. Any missionary advice is always readily accepted.
On our way home, we drove to a referral we had received who lived out in the boones. I was afraid to see what the place looked like, but I was pleasently surprised to see one of the nicest mansions I've seen in Poland. The man opened up the door, and I said "Are you Mr. Karol?" He answered in the affirmative. "We're here to give you a Book of Mormon." He got a smile on his face and let us right in. His family was there for the Easter Holiday. They were so kind to us- they gave us tons of food, even Caviar. Ridiculous. They were apparently referred by the man's sister who is a member of the Church in Las Vegas. The older couple, the man who we were referred to, wasn't incredibly interested, but the Son in law seemed to be- we hope he'll give us a call. He's a surgeon working here in Warsaw. That would be an amazing miracle.
I've got to think about this whole school thing and it's freaking me out a bit. I really don't think I want to be an English major anymore. I'm leaning towards...something else. I'd like to take a couple History classes, and (you're going to think this is strange, but) I also want to take a German class. I'm determined to learn German and Spanish in the next couple of years. I'm going to try to earn money to study abroad in Austria in a year. I just came up with this in the last 4 days ha. I'm leaning towards being an optomologist, or some other doctor, or studying business. I'd like to shadow a couple doctors when I come home, and businessmen. So, I think it'd be good for me to take an economics class or something business related to see if I like it or hate it, and on top of that, I could take a history class (in case I want to be a history major...?). I'll have to look at the different classes and send you a seperate e-mail with more clear thoughts on the subject. But I really do want to take a German class. If you could sign me up for a German class and a Polish class, that would be neat. If the Polish isn't legit, I'll drop it. It's so strange to have to think about this kind of thing.
I'm got to wrap this up, but I love you family. Seeing that little family ice-cream eating get together made me so happy. I do have the best family in the whole world. Thank you Grandma Rushton for you're kind and loving words in your letter, I appreciate them so much. Thank you Grandma Diane so much for the card and present. I appreicate you're support very much. It means tons :)
Have an amazing week and pray for us here in Polska. There is so much yet to be done, and we're trying to think in which way we can best motivated and help the mission soar a bit higher. I love you all. Talk to you in a week :)
Elder Michael Rushton
p.s. I'll be in the Office most of the day, so if you want to let me know what you think about my crazy educational ideas I'd love to get some feedback. Thank you mother and father.
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