Merry Christmas!

It is weird that Christmas is in 2 days?! I'm excited to skype you guys. I really want to talk to you all. It is true that stress is just a thing that we all must deal with each day but I think I need to manage my stress better. Now it's weird like I have ZERO desire of going home but I feel like I'm missing out on something because these last couple of weeks have been umm different. I feel like I'm not succeeding or quite understand what is it that I was suppose to learn this transfer.

 

Now about my companion, President Cleveland and Sister Cleveland are both aware of this and they're helping him as much as they can but it seems like he's going to be going home after this transfer :( I have tried to helped him change his mind because I really don't want him to go home. I KNOW that he will regret it because honestly, what's at home? Everything that is at home can wait until this journey is done. I mean I am tired because I'm always careful and watch him in a distance even when he sleeps.. I just don't want him to do anything idiotic. He's a really really nice kid, I really like him as a person he's a great guy to be around. But I feel like it's out of my ability to help at this point.

 

Well, I'll be skyping from the Barlow's home on Christmas day. I'll definitely need you guys to meet them because they are awesome! We'll watch ELF with them (Yes, we got it approved) and probably be spending the whole day with them. I'm excited to spend time with their children and their family. I think it'll be fun. Anyhow, I hope your christmas week is going great so far. I really don't have anything to share this week except the fact that I strongly dislike washing the car in the cold... (Yes, I used dislike instead of hate)

 

Love you guys and please tell the ward I really appreciate what they have done and sent me!

 

Love,

Elder Uthaichai

Being on Life Alert

I have to tell you guys that I have been doing a lot better. Now if you ask me if I'm stressed? I have to say that YES I am  I feel like I'm on 'life-alert'. Good thing is that my companion is starting to tell me things that come to his head. So I can prepare and make sure that he doesn't kill himself. I want to try my best and help him but sometimes the whole teenage attitude just makes me want to bang my head! So frustrating at times. But despise all the difficulties, I'm doing alright. 

This week has been alright. Nothing too exciting, seriously the last 4 weeks or well 5 weeks now we've been staying in quite a lot. My companion is sick so we can't really go out because he'll get sicker and can't visit members because they have younglings! Anyhow, I don't know what happened this week but it seems like something just clicked. I realized that I can not prohibit someone from using their agency but I can always love them and share with them and always let them know. Actually I feel better this way.

 

We're working hard with the members and started to follow with the Ward Mission Plan which is great. The members are excited and seem to be trusting us more and more. We'll see what's going to happen next! 

Love,

Elder Uthaichai

God Has A Plan

This week has been a lot of pondering and studying. The question that has been on my mind ever since I got out here came to a conclusion. That question was what am I willing to give up for this work. For awhile I thought I could totally do the work and be committed. Well that hasn't been easy as always. True, that I have had success. But there was one thing that was holding me back. But every time I ask Heavenly Father how I can improve, every time I'm on my knees begging for guidance, this issue has come to mind. So last week I literally felt a prompting of what to do.  I know that Heavenly Father hears my prayers and He loves me. He has a better plan for all of us. And for me to truly show him and in a way Pay Him back was through giving up Everything. Literally sacrificing my "life" for the space of two years. I know that His Hands are in this work. I testify of His love for each of us.

The area is picking up-ish. I mean we have 3 new investigators but I feel since I have lost 10 lbs I can move and work faster. Here's a thing we have with this girl Misti. I don't think she cares much for the Gospel. Matter of fact she doesn't even want to read the Book of Mormon but she doesn't mind us teaching her stuff. I have a feeling that she just likes us. That she actually likes me. Yesterday we had Sis. Pulham and Misti at the fireside "Why I believe" and as they were leaving I shook everyone's hand and when I got to her; I shook her hand and said "Thanks for coming!" but it was a split second awkward moment...she didn't let go of my hand. It could just be me. but boy I feel, hmm what's the word? Violated! 

Anyway we're working a lot on door knocking and my companion needs to see a psychologist because of it... I think? Well he was really depressed to the point where he's suicidal. It scared the crap out of me. I thought I messed up that bad. Anyway we're still moving forward! and doing what we can. This area is ready to be flooded but we just gotta find a way to open that gate of Baptism! That's all I got for you guys! 

Love, 
Elder Uthaichai 

Thanksgiving

Now talking about patience; that's something Heavenly Father has been trying to teach me lately I think. We tracted and tracted. Still no one seems to be serious about the Gospel. Now I believe my companion is also trying my patience. He just won't try things.. I asked him nicely to initiate the conversation and he just goes into like awkard scene. Perhaps I need to just relax and focus on him instead of getting new investigators. I don't know. Anyway during Thanksgiving, we had 3 dinners. 2 with members and 1 with stranger. Yes I was stuffed like the Turkey. Oh I forgot to say that in the morning we played some good old Turkey Bowl which was quite enjoyable. I did however, hurt my shoulder but I will tell Sis Cleveland(President Cleveland's wife). Well although Thanksgiving might sound fun my mind wandered a bit - I wanted to go snowboarding, hah!

This week has been interesting really. We found people who just say the things that missionaries would love to hear but don't keep their end of the bargain so I guess onward!

 Can you believe it that my year mark is just around the corner? Weird huh? A few Elders that I have made friends with who are going home around the same time as me. Perhaps 1 or 2 transfers sooner or later. They want to do a road trip someday so I told them I would totally do it.

Well have a wonderful week!

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

The Lord Works In 'Funny' Ways

The temperature is not too kind lately, it's between 26-32F and the humidity doesn't help at all. I sent out those Holiday cards because I thought it would be funny and it would cheer people up. I just sent 4 of them. Anyway, my new companion is Elder Marshall from Oregon.. He'll be a more difficult one unfortunately.. I knew my mission couldn't be this easy. He just doesn't know why he's out here and he's going through some tough time right now. Now prior to the transfer I did ask Heavenly Father to help me with Patience since I figure I can always learn to be more Patience. Well guess what? I got Elder Marshall. Sometimes I just want to blow the whole house up and see what happens. Arg frustration. You just gotta love him they said, connect with them. How when he doesn't talk?! Anyway it's nothing I can't handle :)

This Thanksgiving is strange. They made preparation day that day so we'll probably be staying in since no one really signed up for anything except lunch. We'll go play turkey bowl with the ward and probably stay in. Most of the members are going out of town because 75% of the population in the ward are dental students from Utah. Go figure.

This week has been really really slow. We taught 0 lessons and we have 0 investigators.. Oh well I'm not too worried because my responsibility at this point is to train and do all that I can. Funny how the Lord works. I was homesick and wanted to go home a week prior and now I have to help someone deal with it. Life is full of surprises. I have been sick for the last 2 weeks though, my sleep has not been that great because I have these dry coughs that annoy the crap out of me... Ehh! Anyway I have 3 new Elders in the area so I guess I'll have to be a good elder now.

Well Happy Thanksgiving!

Love,

Elder Uthaichai

Downs & Ups

This letter was after a series of short conversations between my parents and Elder Uthaichai. Elder Uthaichai had been feeling depressed, and expressed a wish to return home. This was the final letter he sent home.

11/11/2013

I can't explain to you guys right now how I feel. I feel overwhelmed, really. I WILL regret it if I go home. I know that because I hate quitting. It's something that I will never be okay with. Dad has helped me a lot and I think I'm just feeling a little under the weather in a way. I will talk to my mission president and perhaps get a blessing from him. Or even my companion. I guess I have just been feeling a little bit too much stress. I guess I really need to stop worrying about things I can't control. You always know what to do and say. I love you and I miss you!

 

Love,

Elder Uthaichai

 

 

 

This is this weeks letter. He sounds better, but prayers would still be appreciated.

 

11/18/2013

This week has been easier for me even though I have been sick. Although I couldn't do much of the typical work I was able to find peace and I was able to really enjoy my time out here. I'm not sure if it's an answer to my prayers or what but I'm going to be training another new missionary this transfer so I know that it will keep me busy and keep me strict to certain extent. I think that the Lord knew that if I keep doing the same old stuff again and again I will get bored so He's showing me that He's here. I'm not sure what this new assignment will be but I"m excited for it.  I'm not sure if President Cleveland understands that I have no idea what I'm doing and he wants me to train again?... Hmmm either he's nuts or he just see something I don't. He said "since you're good at it." It's crazy that holiday season is coming right up and that It'll be a new year.. It will be different being on a mission during the holidays but I"m ready to experience a new kind of joy!  Yesterday we got a crazy storm it was pretty cool if you ask me.

Thank you for everything!

Love,

Elder Uthaichai

 

p.s. My new comp with all the Halloween candy you sent to us:

 

 

 

Cold Weather, Commitments, and Spiritual Growth

I don't think I have ever experience this kind of Cold before, it's not temperature cold but it feels a lot colder than it should. If that makes any sense. The mission just annouce or I guess gave us warnings about the winter. They want us to be VERY careful with our cars and with the Cold. I will definitely wear a hat this winter. I have 2 shoes, one which I bought back in Kokomo and the heels are like broken already... I guess I like walking? anyway I will look into boots when the winter comes because I'm not sure how much walking I'll be doing.

Sorry for being so slow on the pictures, just haven't really been taking too many pictures lately.

Being a District Leader is just being responsible for the area I'm assigned to, I have to basically make sure that their needs are met and make sure that everything is going well. I'm not too good at bossing them around really sometimes I even struggle to correct them. I guess what I really need to do is be a better example. It's pretty tough to be strict for me. This week has been pretty slow we struggle with people keeping commitments. We get a lot of "Yeses" but no show. So we'll be studying how to commit this week. As for backpacks, we are moving away from it; I haven't used backpack for awhile now expect when I have meetings. I have military set scriptures that Elder Garrett's dad sent us so that's what I have been using. I refuse to use those purses!

I'm sorry for not having any cool stories lately because it's pretty tough to "make" a story when we don't have much going on but I can promise you that I'm not discouraged. I know what I need to do and that this is an opportunity to grow. Speaking of growing, you know what I learned this week is that how grateful I am to have my family. There are tons of children out there who are missing out on the blessings of the Gospel and it makes me sad and makes me want to try harder.

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Photo Dump #12

The Hunt Is On

I seriously wish that I can tell you more about my week but honestly, I only taught 3 lessons... that's how slow it is. The weather here is weird! It's 40's but it's freezing! Worst than anywhere I have ever been. So I really tried to come up with cool stories but unfortunately there's not much to tell. I did however take a bunch of pictures though so I hope that will make up for the missing "stories". Elder Duve and I are still struggling with each other a tiny bit. Just don't really know how to work well just yet but it's not like an argument or anything. Our teaching skills could improve more that's all. Elder Duve is a great guy. Anyway I'm still enjoying my time here. Still looking for ways to find new investigators. So if you have any ideas please let me know.

Love
Elder Uthaichai

A Slow Start

My week has been really really slow... not a lot going on here sadly. I try to keep us busy so that we don't get "homesick" or do something stupid. It's pretty brutal out here in the city believe it or not. I feel like the missionaries out here have to rely mainly on referrals to get someone to teach. Knocking is NOT effective at all. People are either working or they're in the city shopping or what not. As for my companion he's different. I'll take pictures of the apartment soon and send them to you.

Love,

Elder Uthaichai

 

P.S. It's freaking cold here!

Online Proselyting - Message from the Mission President

"Many of you have inquired about Online Proselyting, and when our mission will have devices and tools to do that work. There are currently a few missions in the US who are testing the devices. Over the next 6 months, several more missions will utilize the devices. Final decisions will be made in the spring, and if all goes well, everyone in the US will participate in Online Proselyting. Best guess, any time between May-Dec 2014. It will include two mini iPads and one iPhone per companionship. There will be a Dashboard with Apps, Area Books, Planners, Teaching Records, Progress Records and much more that will be utilized on the devices. Stake Presidents, Bishops, WML, and Ward Councils, will have access to everything that you are doing in your area. Everything is real time access. I will be able to access your planner at any given time and know your goals and appointments for the day. There is more accountability, but more important is the ability to provide you with the resources you need to reach those goals. Missionaries and Members totally aligned! Facebook will be a key component to sharing the work as well. One of the miracles of social media, is the ability to teach your family or friends the gospel on Skype or Face Time. One example of this is a missionary in New York, who is currently teaching his non member mom in "his" home in Nevada, with local missionaries present at the lessons. This is currently happening in every mission with devices. In those missions, lessons are being taught throughout the country, and around the world. There are currently 1.6 Billion people in the world who utilize a device every day. In four years that number reaches 2.7 Billion. And you thought the IPhone was just for gaming and texting your friends, think again!"

NEW ADDRESS

5045 Edinborough Lane Apt# 701
Indianapolis, IN 46241.

New Area, New Job

This week will be fairly short because we don't have much to do. The new area is a little different from my old area because it's in the city. I"m down in Indy 3rd ward, full of young families. We can't really tract because it's a different field so we're working with the members and try to get them fired up with the whole hastening the work. I"m doing okay right now not much to do but try out different ways of proselyting. I"m excited to work with younger people. This is a young ward, the members are around mid 20's to early 30's so it'll be interesting.

Anyway, I'm not sure I know exactly what i'm suppose to do as a district leader but I mean how much worst can i do right? I'm enjoying my calling so far the one thing that i have to get use to is Elder Duve, he's the typical Mormon you expect... Shy when it comes to talking about the gospel but when he socialized he states the obvious all the time... Sometimes it gets annoying but I know that I"m suppose to learn something.

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Photo Dump #11

My old District

Being a goof, as usual.

Can you tell we love our converts??

 

"We gotta stick together"

 

Investigators Bob & Connie, adopted grandparents.

 

Sister Murphy

 

The Marlers!!!

A Week of Good-Byes

Conference was great I mean it made me miss mom.. It's strange because I haven't gotten "homesick" for awhile now and the conference did that to me.. Hmm go figure huh. To be honest, the conferences was quite short... I thought it was a lot longer and more boring... I guess I actually pay attention this time. It was very spiritual and it was very sad at the same time. It made me think of home and of mom and how she used to wake me up and tell me that conference was going on and that I need to get up and go watch it. I haven't felt like that in awhile. I really like the fact that most of the talks on Saturday were really centered in missionary work and using technology to spread the gospel. I thought it was very interesting.

We spent a lot of time at the Marlers It was such a great experience both sessions and both days. We had treats and we just lie around the floor. My companion and I never have a dull moment so it was fun.

This week has been good.. Mostly saying goodbyes to people because I'm leaving Kokomo. Right now we're teaching 2 people Lisa and Sis. Murphy a part member family. Unfortunately I'm getting transfer outta here starting tomorrow. I was sad to hear that I'm leaving and I was surprised that they called me to be a district leader. It's just strange that they would move me so quick. I mean, right after I got trained, I train and now I'm going to be a district leader... I'm not sure I'm qualified. However, I accepted the call so I will have to buckle in and do what I  can.

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Photo Dump #10

Baptisms Round 2

My week has been really busy and somewhat slow at the same time. We had 3 baptism this week which was pretty cool. I mean I gotta to say that I was somewhat "disappointed" because I was hoping that I would get this "Taa dahh" feelings when I get a baptism but all I got was like a peaceful feelings and calm. I mean it was very exciting to see all these people come unto Christ and I just felt like I"m just blessed to be part of the journey... I'm not sure if this will make any sense at all but that's how I felt.

So President Cleveland was suppose to come to our baptism because Frank had requested that however, he got caught up in preparing a lesson for the mission so he couldn't make it. Well he did however, apologize to us and to Frank and offered to take us to Lunch. It was really cool to interact with Mission president on weekly basis even though we don't have any type of leadership position. I have to say that Kokomo Ward has been pretty loud lately. They're no longer depress or shy. Everyone talks to one another and we're pushing forward with the missionary effort. Bishop had stated that He had prayed for this ward to be a missionary base ward. So in a way he thinks that his prayers are being answered.

 It's so strange that each day that goes by, I don't want to leave this area.. It started from nothing and now a lot of things are happening and It's time for me to leave???.... Somewhat it seems so unfair.. Like I worked hard for this and now I gotta leave?.. Not sure if I like that. I'm going to miss Sister Marler here. She takes care of me like you would.... We call her Mama or mom.  Anyway, some of the missionaries and members tease me all the time about being "jacked" because I guess I'm just not their typical missionary that they have had in the past.. I'm just myself for the most part unless I'm in a lesson then I do whatever I need to rely on the spirit. It's kind of funny. Don't worry mom I'm not breaking any rules.. just walking on the line... :P just Joking!

Anyway everything is going well. I will find out this Sunday if I'm getting transferred or not. However, I'm positive that I will be.

Rumor has it that I will be able to use Facebook Jan 1st. and We'll get Ipad mini by then... So we'll see what's up. Hey there is a Indiana Indianapolis mission on Facebook so go check it out. Love you guys!

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

When In Doubt, Pray It Out

The Lord's Mission

Now you would think that 140 a month should be enough for food right? well it's not. Because we don't just use that money for food... We have to pay for car wash, all the cleaning stuff, and anything that breaks.. So it adds up. Also you don't always get paid on preparation day. So sometimes I have to use my person money. Also we sometimes pay for ourselves when we go out and eat.. with members.. See The Jeffries wants to feed us (the Recent convert) but Indiana isn't the richest place on earth so members don't have that much money so we don't feel good letting them pay for us.

I mean it's just a scary thought when I think back in my life when I think that I really know what I wanted to do with my life. The mission really have given me a better perspective on the things that I need to do and what I really want to focus on. 2 years are not that long if you really look at it. I'm happy that I chose to come here but now that I have been here in Kokomo for almost 6 months I don't want to leave Kokomo. I mean I love the people here they are all great and I have gotten to know them really well so now I don't want to start all over... I mean you would think it would be easy for me right? since I move all the time.. well it's not.

I'm actually excited for winter.. I think fall is my favorite but I wouldn't mind a little snow here and there. I just don't want to leave Kokomo just before the holiday season starts... Unfortunately I can't dictate what I want to do.. It's not my mission but He that sent me.

So this week has been pretty fun, I can't remember much but I know it went by really fast.

hmmm so we taught a lot of lessons this week and we had a lot of "stress" preparing people for baptism. Jacob, Frank and Katty are getting baptized this week so we'll have to buckle in and start working hard. Although it might look like we're getting some what of a success but it troubles me that Sister Murphy isn't retaining much of the information we have taught her... She's 76 but she can't remember too much I mean she's so smart and all but it's frustrating when you do everything that you could possibly think of but she forgets the next day. Although that has been the issue from the beginning, we have seen a lot of progressions. It was pretty sad when I was on the phone with her. I told her that I'll probably be leaving this area soon, approximately 2 weeks she mentioned how much she loves me and how much she'll miss and how much I meant to her.. I think it was the sweetest thing ever but I'm not sure if it's the kind of impact I wanted to leave this ward. As bad as this will sound, My companion and I have gotten a lot of hugs this week... well of course from older people. For instance, yesterday sister Dwigin was feeding us Lunch and she was giving the sisters hugs and I reached out my right hand to give her a hand shake and she just came up to me and give me a hug and said "I don't care anymore, I'm like your grandma" hahaha. In a way that's a good thing because the ward is trusting us now and the missionary effort in Kokomo is hastening because of it. However, now is that breaking the "rule" perhaps it's breaking the letter of the law but I don't see any issue with the spirit of the law... It's not like we go around offering hugs.

There are so many people I want you guys to meet! These are great people whether they're LDS or not... Anyway I can't remember much of what I did but I know it was productive hahaha

Love

Elder Uthaichai

Having A Purpose

There are so many things I wish I can just put in this email however, it would take me way too long to describe everything. You know how the story of people going to the "prophet" to be baptized? Well similar situation occurs to us. It might not be 2000 people but it's one.

As for right now we have about 5 people set for baptism on September 28th. It's such a cool thing to witness as you see them grow in the gospel. I love it. It's tough but it's definitely worth it. I will briefly share with you the progress. Well we have Jacob, Steve, Cody, Frank and Katty, and Deene Murphy. Amazingly my trials and challenges that I have faced in my life have allowed me to relate to these people. It's doesn't even feel like I'm teaching them. It feels like I'm sharing my own experience with them and watch them grow and change. All these people want to be baptize while Elder Garrett and I are still in the area so we're doing a lot of shuffling around and driving.

Of course I record most of these experiences in my journal but I have to admit I don't record too much details. I'm just too tired by the end of the evening you see. I will do my best to get on top of that. I promise I will do better.

Now this week has been pretty interesting. We had tons of support from the members now, it seems like that's the key to "success" is to gain their trust. By gaining their trust I mean like literally to the point where they say something like "I have a niece at BYU that you can marry into the family when you get home" It's funny but really they are trusting us and I don't know if I want to leave this area :(.

In addition, Elder Garrett and I left our mission this week... We were just sick of working so we just decided to leave our area.. Hah JK! We needed new tires so we had to go to firestone. Well innocently we went to Nobleville which is no longer part of Indiana mission. I didn't know that until I called Elder Hodges - one of the car dude that you need to call when you want to do something with the car. Well he started bursting out laughing so I was thinking to myself "What is so freaking funny? waiting for 6 hours to get new tires is not that funny" well he then said, "Elder do you know that you're not longer in your mission area?" I was like "Oh ops" well I guess we have our own little secrets every now and then :P

Here's a little "confession" I think I'm going to be crushed when President Cleveland tells me that I'm being transfer.. I really want to continue to watch these people grow and go to the temple! If I did what I suppose to I know that I will see them go to the temple before I leave my mission! Hey dad guess what! So Jacob is 19 year old right? well he just asked if he could be baptized one night.. we were just "hanging" out with him and he just said "Guys, I think I'm going to apply to BYU and BYUI" I was so excited! I think I might do that! I might transfer to Provo just because it's better "name" and I will have a lot of friends there also Rachel will be there not too far! So maybe you, Dad, should get a job there :P.

Dad, umm so I think it was on Saturday when we took the car in for repairs. Well we had time to just do nothing and I mean nothing. So we walked around the mall and went around like how we would if we were home right? well frankly I dislike it very much. It really feels odd walking around without purpose.. I'm getting scared about going home... I'm not sure if I want to go home. I know I have a long ways to go but it's only 18 months left.. That's not a lot and I don't know if I can go home. I'm actually scared. When I go home I won't have a Purpose... what on earth am I going to do with myself.... I try to not think about this but sometimes it comes up, you know as I lie down waiting to fall asleep.

Well I can say that everything here is good and I'm loving Indiana. Although sometimes the weather and the "leaders" kind of irritates me because of how they deal with younger missionaries.. Well I guess everyone has flaws even myself sadly.

Have a wonderful day and week!

I love you guys and I love you mom!

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Zone Picture

Home

So this week has been pretty interesting. First of all anything that can go wrong did go wrong. Elder Garrett's bike blew up while we were biking home so we had to drag one another home. Then we tried to fix his bike but it didn't go anywhere. So we have been walking miles and miles. We figured why not! nothing else we could do and the Lord has blessed us with health and strength.

Right now we have 5 people with baptismal dates. Many of these people have some issues with the Word of Wisdom but I know that God will help them and will provide a way for them to quit and over these obstacles. I wish I can share more in details about these cool miracles but I rather wait. Elder Garrett and I will write a story about this week as these people proceed to the baptismal font. It's such a great experience to really see that as long as you do what needs to be done and do it with Faith, He will provide a way.

This week I was really bored despised the fact that Kokomo is doing well. I was hitting the point where I felt like I'm getting bored of missionary work. Well To be honest I am... It's just so repetitive I think I need to come up with a new temporal goal. I go out and I just try to do my best to get the job done so in a way I'm becoming rote. Luckily I still teach people not lesson so that's a good thing.

 

Well I have 3 weeks left in Kokomo and I gotta be honest, I don't want to leave. I really enjoy it here. It has become a home.. My home and I really enjoy the members here and the people I get to teach and talk to. For instance, today as we left the apartment a girl came up to us and ask us if we have seen her underwear... Now that doesn't happen everyday but it was something Unique I guess... Stuff like that happens out here where I wouldn't be able to experience it anywhere else so I'm glad that I am on my mission.

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

New Investigators

Because it was Labor Day, I didn't get to email yesterday. Sometimes I question these holidays... It seems like missionaries never take a day off do they? I feel more and more tired each day. No wonder most of the seasoned missionaries whine about sleep. It's so hard to sleep at night. I keep waking up, I don't know what's going on.

So, remember how I mentioned that we have to start from the bottom up? Well right now we have 4 baptismal dates set and as for right now 3 are pretty solid. Frank and Katty have master degrees in Theology and they're working on their Dr. Well the cool thing is that we tracted into them by accident and I figure what else do I have to lose from sharing my testimony so we did that. Now they're so excited to meet with us and learn more about the Gospel. He made a connection himself about the Book of Mormon and the Bible... what a stud.
 

Also, we were contacted by Cody, a formal investigator that fell away. He took the discussions a couple of years back and went into the stupid teenage years and now he's ready to come back and take things serious. It's going to be a blast working with him. We hope that he is sincere about it. Well he seemed sincere since he contacted us. Those are the people we're working with. We also have Lisa, a mother of 13 children that we hope to get their entire family involve but I'm afraid my time in Kokomo will come to and end before I get to see them accept baptism... but that's alright as long as they do it right?
 

Well everything is going well, I miss you guys!

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Photo Dump #9

Journey On

This week was pretty slow, we're just rebuilding back so right now we're not teaching that much. I will be here in Kokomo for another 6 weeks.. I will be here for 6 months.. That's insane! Anyway I'm happy with it. Well last friday I went to Purdue campus and worked with the people same age and it was way easy. I mean everyone was willing to talk to you and willing to hear what you have to say. Hopefully I'll get a chance to work there during my mission. Anyway Elder Garrett and I get alone just great! And he's a smart guy, he is a great missionary as well. We work really well together so I feel blessed to have another 6 weeks to work with him.

We did however get a new Ward Mission Leader though, and he was so awesome. He was like this is what I want done and this is how we'll do it. Awesome guy, I know this ward will blow up. Right now we're focusing on the members and attempting to turn this mission into a referrals mission.

He wants us to Baptized once a transfer so every 6 weeks. It's an insane goal but I'm sure with the help of the members it will be done. We're rebuilding the area right now and a lot of changes are being made so it's a little tough to write stuff back. Nothing too exciting except a lot of improving techniques and stuff.

I really miss home sometimes but every time I pray about going home he tells me that I don't need to worry about it and that my "job" and responsibilities are here in Indiana right now so I guess I'll continue on my journey :)

Ohhh, Mandy and AJ are so awesome they're actually becoming a part of the ward. They are so prepared for the gospel! It's insane the sad part is that every time we bring up transfer she gets so sad... I hope she'll be alright when I leave the area!!

The more I teach about the Gospel, the more I realize that everything revolves around that. We're nothing without Christ and we're nothing to God yet we're everything to God.

 

Love,

Elder Uthaichai

A "Good" Missionary

 

I'm not quite sure about me being a "good" missionary.. I just do what I should I guess. It's really not that difficult. However, Yes! we did have all those baptism and I'm super happy about but now I need to start from 0 again. Ha, typical huh?

Something super strange happened to Elder Garrett and I this week. A man wanted to "support" us. He asked if he could give us scholarship money and wanted us to buy a German car when we get home. I'm not sure I believe much of what he says but it's definitely a fun story to talk about.

1st Baptism

Last Saturday we have 2 baptism. Sis. Hornbuckle who has been investigating for 3-4 months is now baptized. She's so amazing. She quits smoking cold turkey after knowing that it is a commandment. Then we had a child-baptism a long with that. Now next Saturday we'll have 3 baptism. Mandy and AJ are finally getting baptized. They have been waiting for it for quite sometimes now. I'm so excited and feel so blessed to be part of their journey. The 3rd person is Sis. Sonja Rohn. Her son went on a mission in the Philippines and that made a big impact on her. It made her want to know more and so she took a step of faith and found out more. Now she's ready to make a covenant with Our Heavenly Father.

The Ward is blowing up quickly, We're trying to get members involved more in finding and fellow-shipping because we know that the work is hastening. We are not longer allowed to tract in the evening time. We are told to work with members and part-member etc. I really think that we're preparing for the new way of doing missionary work. I'm so excited! Anyway I miss you guys! Have a wonderful week! I'll send pictures next week.

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Being Effective & Efficient

It's amazing to me how much FUN Elder Garrett and I have. We figured out a better way of doing our work. Our Motto is Effective and Efficient so for now things have been going really well. A couple days ago we were interviewed by Pres. Cleveland and the weird thing is that Elder Garrett and I was asked to be interviewed together... He said he felt inspired to do that and that our companionship is very special. He said that it was Literally selected by the Man upstairs. It was super neat experience. I'm so grateful to be here and I will serve the Lord with all my mind, might, strength and heart so please don't worry about whatever you hear... some people just don't speak English well I guess.

This week has been "easy". I feel like things are getting into a "routine" in a way. We go out and we do what we can, we run from one end to the next. Like I have mentioned earlier, our teaching pool is getting really deep so we're doing really well on finding. We are trying to get members to be excited to do missionary work and help them realized that it is their responsibility to help build the Lord's kingdom. Mandy and AJ are doing really well, they'll be interviewed by Pres. Ellis and hopefully are qualified for baptism. We did what we could now it's up to them to progress. Elder Garrett and I are truly working in unity. We have to go visit him in Walla Walla. Such an amazing boy he is. He's always up for challenges! (that scares me) but we work really well together. We discuss our problems right as it erupt. Thank you for all the support and prayers! please keep doing that

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Spiritual and Temperal Experiences

It's amazing how fast time flies. I have never felt this way before. I feel like I don't have enough time in the day to do anything. This week has been really fun, Elder Garrett and I get along pretty well. We talk about our feelings and have "companion Inventory" all day long. We have funny conversations and when we need to be serious; we can be. When we teach, we teach as one. It's amazing how quick he learns. I'm amazed. He keep giving me compliments about being able to "command" the spirit. I think he's on drugs... But really, am I really "commanding" the spirit or am I just attentive? I think I just listen well.

Anyway, Mandy and AJ are still going strong on their baptism date. I'm so excited for her and her husband. They are amazing. I feel so bless to have the opportunity to share with them this Gospel. Oh I have to share something very personal to me. I did something that is pretty bad. I tricked Elder Garrett this week. I left him hanging at the door, because I thought it was funny. We went to Connie (Non-member friend that I met my first week here in Kokomo) and I acted like I don't know what was going on and I just let him choke there. I laughed my butt off and we smiled and laugh. However, when I got home I felt like I have done something really really wrong. I felt his feelings and thoughts... as weird as it sounds I was in tears... I failed as a trainer. I really couldn't explain it I felt so small that night so we ended up talking about it for the next 2 hours. I even called my district leader prior  to our talk. I just didn't feel at peace. I feel like I have a better understanding of the Atonement ya know?

Well that was one of many instances that I have encountered spiritual experience. Well the downside of this week is that I got my bike stolen... They didn't even take the Helmet. I mean if they're going to steal it, mind as well steal the whole deal.. I thought I had to buy a new one but Mandy and AJ had 2 new bikes that they don't really use so they just gave them to us. They said that we're such a blessing to them so they want to do what they can to help us. It's brand new so we both got new bikes. We are TWINS now!

Elder Garrett is super cool, He's from Walla Walla and from what I have heard from him, his family is really cool as well. I have learned a lot from him to be honest. I'm blessed to be here. Thanks for making it possible! Take care and have a great week.

love,
Elder Uthaichai

New Companion Pic

Elder Uthaichai with first new 'greenie' Elder Garrett

Teaching With The Spirit

Well, my new companion is Elder Garrett. He's a pretty good comp. I feel like he wants to establish a really long term relationship with me...I don't mean that in a homosexual way. He's really tall though.. He's 6' 6'' and eager to learn! We get along really well so far. He can play a lot of instruments! He's from Walla Walla Washington. Funny thing is I believe I have seen him at BYUI Fall semester.. I just didn't really pay attention to him and now I'm training him. I'm truly am humbled for the opportunity that I have to train him. It's a joy and challenge at the same time. Elder Garrett knows everything about cars. He wanted to go dune buggie - fix up crappy cars and drive them around at the sand dunes for fun.

This week we have 2 investigators from our area and 2 from the sisters. However, our teaching pool is around 8-10 investigators.. So we just need them to progress. We will always strive our best to be strictly obedience and always follow the prompting of the spirit.

To be honest, I have never felt the spirit this strong. I don't know many scriptures. However, I never fear when I teach because I know Heavenly Father will help me when I need it. Believe it or not I have seen the reward already. The joy I feel at each lesson is indescribable. I will continue to work hard and always do my best.

Oh Guess What!? I'm picking my Swedish back up... It's amazing how fast you can re-learn something when you read the Gospel Of Jesus Christ (Jusu Kristus Evangeliet). I began to read Preach my Gospel in English and switch back and forth. We practice quite often since Elder Garrett is still learning. He said he wants to be able to "Command" the Spirit like me... I'm not quite sure what he means but it sure sounds bad. Well I miss you guys, and I hope that everything is going well! It's so weird that 3 months have gone by so quick...

I'm so busy mentally it's nuts.. Everything I do and think about has to be with Investigators.. Even when I sleep.. Weird huh? It's either about the investigators or Elder Garrett.. I don't know what it is but I just feel like I need to continue to improve myself so that I can help others.

We'll be planning Mandy and AJ's baptism next week so it'll be interesting because it'll be my first. I'm not sure what's going to happen because I don't really trust people. I just have faith in the Lord. So I guess Courtney really did screw me up in a way. Don't get me wrong I am excited for Mandy and AJ but just not the same excitement as Courtney. I'm cautious.

Anyway I love you guys and wish that you will always have the spirit with you; to keep y'all safe!

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Now a Trainer

Well, you guys are probably wondering what happened this transfer and I'm here to let you know that I'm staying in Kokomo. However, I'm training someone... Can you believe it? They're trusting me with a new Greenie. I'm not sure what President is thinking but I know the Lord knows what He's doing so as long as I can keep myself thinking like Nephi I will be alright. The seasoned missionaries keep teasing me about going assistant. They said Elder Mungia did that and he has been one of the assistants for 5 transfers now. Yuck! We won't know who I'm training until Wednesday, so I'm excited to find out who this "unlucky" elder is.

I am pleased to report about this weeks effort. We had 7 non members at Church from our and  the sisters efforts. 5 investigators and 2 of their friends. I'm not sure if this is good or bad however, I have been called con-artist.. and that I'm "pushy" but Elder Brezenski said I'm bold and persistence. That's the only way to do it... If you don't follow up and keep inviting then nothing will get done right?

I have had good and bad days, however I wouldn't want to trade anything else for this. I really enjoy loving people and really teach by the spirit. Now don't get confused now. I'm still the same just a little more "spiritual" and mature you can say. I will always be  a boy though like the other day we froze the water balloon that  you gave me in the package and went out and used it as a baseball...

Anyway, I hope everything is going well! I love you all! Thanks dad for the encouragement. Hey when I get home we need to go down to Utah to see Trevor Marler and then maybe come to Indiana? Haha anyway that's a dream away. We're picking up slowly so it's moving. We'll be like Noah and Flood this entire place with baptism :). If not I'll be sure they know who we represent :) Have a wonderful week!

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

My district!

Godly Sorrow

I know that the Lord loves me and is providing a way for me to learn. Sometimes I am just so immature and so stuck up in a shallow end. I don't look ahead however, I am please to tell you that I have picked myself up and continue this journey. I really enjoy being a missionary; help all those who are in need of my God given ability.
I did develop a new type of love for others and yes I was deeply hurt however, I realized that every time I sin whether it be minor or major that Our Heavenly Father truly feel sorrow. The sadness that I can never ever comprehend. I want to let you know that my understanding of the Atonement is far beyond what I can imagine. I know that Jesus Christ suffer for ME and that through him I can be forgiven and continue to grow. I don't know where or what I would be without the Gospel. Thank you very much for bringing me into the Gospel. I want to let you know that not only have you provided a way for me but you have also provided a way for generations to come.

Now, this week we have received tons of names for less active members. So this week we'll be doing a lot of contacting and re-activation process! Gotta get these lost sheep back into the fold. We're working with Mandy and Alex right now and they have a baptism date. They are very excited for it. I'm doing the best that I can right now so I hope you can be some what proud of me. Although I'm not a perfect teacher or even good for that matter. The one thing I can promise you is that I teach with my heart and love. Mandy is 27 I believe and she was hit by a car at 11 and she is recovering slowly.. She has the warmest heart and spirit I have ever felt. She wants to encourage others. The funny thing is  that as a missionary I suppose to teach her however, she's actually teaching me. She showed me how bless I am and how much Heavenly Father loves me. I'm excited to work with her whether it'll be until her baptism or not. I'm glad I had the chance to learn and feel the spirit when teaching her.

I think it'll be a little better after this transfer because Elder Brezenski has been here for way too long so he's having a little tougher time here. Anyway I'm glad to be here!

Love,
Elder Uthaichai!

Disappearing Acts

There were a few instances that happened this week that made me miss home and got me super sick of my area. First of all the sister missionaries were to teach Rowdy and everything was great. Everyone was very excited for him and all of the sudden he just disappeared... A few days later we found out that he had raped his daughter and got sent to jail. It seems like everyone we have brought to Church or teach have the tendency to have a criminal record. It's so sad and makes my heart ache. I have really lost trust in these people. A lot of them are very enthusiastic when we invited them and they accept most of our invitations however, they don't follow through.

Now this is a major heartbreak for me; Courtney. I hate to say it but she literally broke my heart like a shattered mirror. I really love her and her family. It's strange to say but I have developed such a love that I didn't know existed for her and her family. I KNOW with every ounce of my heart that the gospel will make their lives better. Well, something really strange happened. So we set up an appointment for Friday evening to teach her FHE and we were really close. However, she texted us and re-scheduled because something popped up. So we didn't pay too much attention because she mentioned that she was going to be coming to Church so we were hoping to see her there. To be honest I was praying to see her at the Sacrament meeting. She didn't show up. We went by her house that evening to find out that all her stuff was gone and  that the house was empty. She has moved away without saying anything  to us and what kills me is that she doesn't give us any explanation. She's ignoring our calls and text. I don't know what to say or do. I mean I could careless if she refuse the Gospel but at least give us an explanation. Anyway that's my week. Sucks. Pardon my language.

We don't knock too many door anymore because President Ellis our stake president and mission leader said it's a waste of time. Also our mission coordination leader seems to be "discouraging" us to teach people up north due to criminal records. I mean North side is what we are responsible for. It's frustrating not knowing what the Lord wants from me. I'm doing the best that I can however, it doesn't seem like the ward here wants to grow. I have just realized that this area was shut down a few transfers prior to mine. Anyway I did receive your package so thank you very much. My transfer is coming up in 2 weeks I believe I'll find out on the 14th so I will keep you posted.

About President Collins. He left on Friday and President Cleveland is here now I believe. We will meet him tomorrow at Lafayette. I hope he's not too strict but whatever rules he makes I will obey without questioning it anyway. I might have an opinion but that's as far as it goes. Well I hope everything continues to go well back home. I miss you all and sure hope that this cloudiness in my mind is temporary. The members here are amazing as always.  Thank you for all your prayers and support! I will let you know if I'm getting transfer or staying. I hope I stay because I don't want to leave this area having negative thoughts/experiences about it.

Love always,

Elder Uthaichai

 

I don't have that many picture this week sorry. This is Trevor Marler. He's going to Salt Lake West Spanish Speaking. If you're down there please go find him and feed him. His family is so good to me.

Photo Dump #8

Becoming A Teacher

This week was awesome. We taught about 5 lessons maybe and I was able to improve my teaching skills by going on exchanges with other missionaries. They all keep telling me that I might be training someone else right after my training.. I'm not sure if I like that idea. I can barely carry myself.

Aside from the lessons taught we committed Courtney to baptism and she said "I never thought you would asked!" Well here's the trick, she works on Sundays so we didn't want to commit her because it would be an empty commitment but we told her to keep praying about it and The Lord will provide a way 1 Nephi 3:7. Well on Saturday we ran into her on our bikes and she was very excited to tell us that She switched her Sunday with someone else so that she can attend Church. Her son Wyatt wanted to be an Elder when he grows up. So it's pretty awesome!

Thursday and Friday we had a "day off" because we went to LDS scout camp thing to just represent or something. Well Elder.. something, Area of the Seventy came and gave talks and camped there. He was very nice guy. Anyway we had a blast and I will send pictures to you.

Today I don't feel that well that's why I don't have energy to email as much as I used to. I woke up with the worst headache ever and I spent my morning vomiting or sleeping. I know I'm not suppose to but I called sister Collins and let her know that I was not capable of doing anything. So right now I'm still trying to recover :(

Love,
Elder Uthaichai

Photo Dump #7

These pics didn't come with any captions...