I'm Back

What I Learned On My Mission

So, as the end is just about here, I have had a lot of time (or maybe it just has been bombarding me) to reflect on the last two years. One person asked me some of the things that I have learned, so I decided I would take a moment and share some of the things that I have learned.

I have learned that in Hawaii, things get soggy very quickly. You shouldn't plan on having your towel ever be dry, except when it comes right out of the dryer. But also that love can and should be a leading motivator in all that we do. If we truly love everyone around us and see them as a brother or sister, then we and they will be much happier. Our service will be greater, and there will be less frustration and anger.

I have learned about missionaries that they are often immature, annoying, and arrogant. Yet, they are the only access to atoning grace that the world has. Without missionaries, no converts can be baptized. Also, beneath all the 19-21 year oldness, they are kind at heart and have a desire to serve. Of course they have flaws and struggles, but who doesn't. A mission will truly turn them into the men (or women) that they can be.

I have learned about myself more of who I am, and what I truly want in life. A lot of my desires have changed, and my attitude as well. I feel no longer that I have to prove myself to the world and to those around me, but that I can and should truly be me. I have learned that in some circumstances I have sacrificed much, and perhaps too much, to prove that I was something I wasn't. I hope I don't startle too many people when I get home, but I believe I have finally learned who I am, what I am capable of, more of what I want and need, and what makes me happy.

But above all, I have learned of our Savior and His gospel.

I have truly learned that Joseph Smith was a prophet. That the church of Christ was lost from the earth for almost 2000 years, but that the Lord called an unlearned 14 year-old boy to restore everything back. I have learned what eternity can mean to me and others. I have learned that the gospel contains all the answers that we are looking for.

The Book of Mormon is the word of God, and can answer the questions of the soul. There is no way that a man could have written that book.

I have learned that we are led and guided by a prophet today. He is able to receive revelation to lead us and guide us in our search for peace and happiness here, and in the life to come.

But most important, I have learned of Christ. Our Savior came to this earth, lived a perfect life. Not that everything went perfect for him, but that he never, ever sinned. He was spotless forever. He faced the hardest trials, persecutions, and struggles, yet he did more than any of us ever could. He willingly volunteered Himself and sacrificed Himself for all mankind, suffering for all of our sins. We cannot comprehend how this is possible, or even a fraction of what it felt like, yet we have faith and can feel the relief of forgiveness. He also felt all of our pains, so that He knows exactly what we are going through. He is always there, ready to reach out and give us the hand that we need, to lift us out of the hard times. If we will turn to Him, He will help bear our burdens. He cannot take them all away, for that would deny us the opportunity to learn and grow, but He can make them light, so that we can stand to continue forward. Without the Atonement, no one could ever return. Christ could have Himself without suffering, but instead He suffered for us. I love Him so much, and will forever be grateful for all that He did for me.

I thank all that have supported me during these two years. They have truly been the hardest two years of my life, but also the best. May we all continue to stay strong in the Lord, and receieve all of the blessings that He has in store for us.

Love

Elder John Cameron Kidd

07/26/10

Aloha Oe

This won't be my final, final email, but it will be the second to the last. This is simply an account of our last week... as far as I can remember....

So, unfortunately no miracles happened, and we will not be having a baptism Tomorrow, but things are ok. I get this strange feeling when we come back to visit that I will have to pack white clothes. Derek is doing alright, but still got a ways to go, and Kelsea couldn't get her grandparents to come to our activity. But, I know that I did the very best that I could for them, and I think I will still be able to continue to help them.

A lot of this week was directed at preparing for our activity on Saturday, which went very well. It was great to be able to set up a spiritual room, and everyone that saw it loved it. I think Elder Pontanares might have to do it again in the not-so-distant future. There was a good spiritual message at the end, but I don't want to spoil what might be a future activity for the younger generation.

Yesterday seems to be the day with the most events (that or it wasn't so long ago, so I can remember it). Church was our ward conference, which is handled a bit differently in Hawaii. Sacrament is an hour and a half long, and then everyone splits for the last class after that. Also, most of the high council and a few bishops come as well. So, we had a lot of people there. I talked to the Stake President a little before sacrament, and he asked the bishop to ask me to bear my testimony in sacrament meeting. Then, after sacrament, the ward sang "Aloha Oe" to me, and I was given a lot of lei's. It was an awesome experience, and I realized that I have made an impression on this ward, and am so grateful that the Lord allowed me to serve here.

After Sacrament I had to run into relief society because I had been asked to sing "Called to Serve" to begin their lesson that they were having. I realized after I sang that I didn't ever sing for this ward, so they were all rather surprised. The President and First councilor were both in tears (and we live with the president, whose name is Gloria and is excited to meet you mom). Then we went to Priesthood and then on home.

After studying for a while, we had to run my signing journal to a member family because I had forgotten to give it to them at church. We were on our way to dinner, so we had to make it fast. We pulled up and I saw one of the daughters outside opening the gate. I was a little surprised because they always keep the gate closed, but I didn't think too much of it. I motioned to her to come to the car to grab the journal, but she told me that her sister had just fallen and dislocated her knee. So, we immediately pulled in, and ran inside to give her a blessing. Turns out she had just dislocated her kneecap (sound familiar anybody?). So, we gave her a blessing, and tried to help get her ready for the ambulance, and provide some comfort for the family. After everything got settled and she was on her way to the local clinic, I took a moment to thank the Lord for allowing me to be a servant in His hand, and realized that everything happens for a reason.

So, then we went to dinner and lesson, and headed home. That night, our landlord and lady gave me a towel set: navy blue with my name and "Go Aggies" embroidered on it. So, I am excited to be able to use that.

Last night I was allowed to make some phone calls to people I knew in previous areas, and was able to talk to Jack from Kauai. He is doing well, still isn't baptized, but his life is going much better. He and I had a good talk, and it was nice to be able to talk to him again. His son is on O'ahu, so I am trying to get in touch with him to see if he can come to the airport on thursday night.

Today is all about packing though, and getting ready. We have a good day planned tomorrow, and things I think will go well. It has been a blast, and I will see you all soon. I love you all!

Elder Kidd

07/19/10

Aloha

The beginning of the end... I know this is going to be one of the hardest weeks, but I am excited for it. I'm going to make it my best.

Things this last week were interesting, but good. I feel more and more that I am becoming separated from the ward as Elder Pontanares takes over, and everyone continues to remind me of how little time I have left. In the words of our second councilor: "I'm so short I can play handball on the curb." So, they seem to be excited for me, but driving me nuts at the same time.

We were able to meet our new mission president on Thursday. IT was a good meeting. He and his wife are two amazing people, and I know things will go well for them during their service. His question to me was what could he do to help us have a baptism before I go home, and all I could think of was pray for a miracle. If a miracle happens, Kelsea's grandpa will come to an activity this Saturday, see we are ok people, and let her get baptized. Derek doesn't look like it will happen before I go home.

Elder Pontanares continues to do very well with the Filipinos in our area. He was able to commit one for baptism on August 7th. She loves the gospel and accepts everything we teach. We also were able to begin teaching another that will probably get baptized.

I really am afraid that most everything is disappearing in a blur. We had a good lesson with Don and Shirley, and Don came to church and liked it. But the funny story....

We ran into a less active member named Auntie Lelani while tracting one day, and she wanted us to come back to visit, so we came the next day. Well, when we showed up, she was outside at a table. I thought she could see us, but I guess not, so we started shouting to her... for about five minutes. She never heard us. Finally, someone in the house saw us and told her we were there, so she came out and let us in. She insisted on making us lunch, so she made us some bologna and cheese sandwiches. While she did that, I tried to ask her how her day was... about five times getting louder each time. I think Elder Pontanares was about to crack at this point, but he help it together. At one point, her dog (a very old and probably blind Rottweiler) began fighting with a rock on the ground, barking at it and throwing it around. Eventually I wanted to share a message, so I pulled out a Book of Mormon. She wanted to run into the house to get hers. Well, she never found it. So, we offered her one. She kept trying to turn us down, saying we wouldn't have one. We finally got her to hear that we had about 50 in our car, so she agreed. Then she talked about how nice it was that we had a car, and how they used to walk with the missionaries. Then I tried to hand the book to her to her, and she protested again, saying that we wouldn't have one. So, we repeated again that we had 50 in our car, and she was amazed. "You have a car? Wow!" So, we left smiling, and hoping that Auntie Lelani continues to be happy. Then Elder Pontanares laughed when we were far enough away.

So, all that was fun. I hope all is going well for everyone. I love you all. Next week may be a unique email. I hope you like it.

Elder Kidd

07/12/10

Aloha

It is my continued prayer and hope for these last two weeks that the Lord will see fit to allow me to witness a miracle, which seems more and more will be Derek getting baptized before I leave. Right now he is trying to take steps in that direction (such as selling his $4,000 gold necklace), but every time someone brings up the idea to Ericah, she quickly responds that there is no way it will happen before I go home. Yet, we trust in miracles.

Other than that, the week has been good, but interesting. In response to Elder Pontanares' lack of communication, and his telling others that he was excited for me to leave, I decided to put him in charge of pretty much everything. So, he seems happier now, and I think at the same time he is realizing that things aren't going to be quite as easy as he thought, so things between us have eased up a little bit.

Life with our investigators continues on some good paths. Most of the great that happened this week happened on Friday while I was on an exchange in another ward, so I didn't see it. I did spend a good day with a greenie that is definitely struggling with being fully committed, so I shared some words of wisdom with him that hopefully will help him to get on, and stay on the path. I think in the end it will help. Elder Pontanares did well as well, finding two new Filipino investigators, one of which decided to come to church.

Overall, things have been moving fairly quickly this last week, and it seems that it will continue to move fast until the end. I got my itinerary this last Friday for my last couple of days, and for my flight home. I will be landing around 7:30 on the morning of the 30th, so I am excited to see all of you there. I get to go to the famous Swap Meet, PCC, and then Pearl Harbor before I come home, so I will have lots of pictures, and hopefully some souveniers (just remember, missionaries are poor)

One last good experience we had last night. We went over to the Mo'e family, or rather Mo'e aiga last night for a family lesson. Their car had broken down earlier in the day on the way to taking Bro. Moe to work, so they weren't able to make it to any of church, so they definately were excited for our visit. What was awesome was how our lesson (that we planned without knowing what was going on) on faith fit in perfectly with what they needed at that time. The spirit was strong, and you could see that they were touched. Before we left, Bro. Moe told us that we have hit him harder than any other missionaries before. Thanks be to the Lord for allowing us to be His servants.

I love you all so much. As always, thank your all that you do. See you soon!

Elder Kidd

07/06/10

Aloha

Well, it seems as though the Lord has decided that I haven't learned enough on my mission so far, and is continuing to give me opportunities to learn and grow until the end. I guess nothing worthwhile ever came easy.

The struggle I am having right now is my companion. I love the kid, but apparently he has decided that he doesn't like how I do missionary work (and wants to focus more on Philipeanos), and is simply waiting until I go home. I would be ok with this, but I feel recently that the division it is creating between us is causing the work to suffer. Unfortunately every time I say anything about it, he just ignores me, or denies anything, but you can tell something is bothering him. So, we'll see how the Lord inspires me to help with this situation.

Other than that, it was a difficult,ut ok week. We had a lot of people cancel appointments with us, and other things not go so well. Derek continues to be extremely busy, but we are hoping to commit him for the 27th today so that he will get baptized before I go home. Ericah is slowely but surely getting more and more on board, especially after going to her nephew's baptism. She said she felt a desire to do better, and be better. I love those feelings.

We found out (I don't remember if I said this last week or not) that Kelsea's grandfather has told her that she isn't old enough to decide on religion, but hasn't forbidden her from having contact with the church, or her friend that is a member. So, now we pray that his heart will be softened. Sister Prather, the mother of Kelsea's member friend also pointed out that in the end Kelsea just needs the permission of her mother... so I don't know exactly what Sister Prather has planned, but it sounds as though she has some sort of idea.

We managed to get into a super-arguement this last week with a baptist outside of the house of one of our members. He came up and said he liked talking to mormons, and then began to argue with us and attack us for a while. We were with our Ward Mission leader as well, which turned out either to be a blessing or a curse, since he took over a couple of times, but may have prevented us ending the conversation earlier than we did. In the end, I learned again that I don't like people that do that, that arguing never works, and that those that argue with you don't really listen to anything you say.

So, things may not be in the most ideal setting right now, but I know there is a reason for everything that is happening. I just hope that the Lord fills me in on why soon, and gives me the strength to do what needs to be done.

I love you all. As always, thanks for all of the continued guidance and support!

Elder Kidd

06/28/10

Aloha

Another week flown by, and me still wondering what is going on in some situations. Good, bad, and interesting continues to happen.

First of all, the Hurtados did make it to the waters of baptism on Saturday, but with plenty of scares along the way. On Thursday when we went over for our lesson, Marilyn (the mom) didn't come out and Ralph (the son) told us that she had said she didn't want to be baptized anymore. Not good words to a missionaries ears. Well, somehow (probably thanks to the spirit, and Marilyn's mother-in-law) she decided that she did want to get baptized, and it all went fairly smoothly. I say fairly because the joke I had made earlier about only needing three priesthood holders and the person (people) getting baptized came true. We had a teacher, but other than that it was only the ward mission leader, and the two of us missionaries. But, it all went well, and the confirmation went well as well... that's a lot of wells.

Derek is still doing well. We were able to have a good discussion with him and Ericah last Thursday about taking a leap of faith, and sacrificing to do the Lord's will. So, at the end, Ericah said she only needs the ring now (the rest of the list seems not so important) and Derek learned that he doesn't have to have cash to buy the ring, but that he can get it on credit. So, hopefully that opens up possibilities very soon. We can definitely see the adversary working on him though. One of his friend's father died on Saturday, so they were unable to come to church yesterday.

We were able to teach a couple on Wednesday that looks very promising. Don is from California, and Shirley from the Philipeans. Well, after sharing part of the lesson, we had to leave to make it to our next appointment (they ask a lot of questions), but Shirley called us the next day to tell us that she had had a dream about us coming and teaching the lessons, and she said our message was beautiful. Miracles do happen.

Sunday, we had fun in our PEC meeting with our High Priest Group Leader again. I had to, once again, explain the WARD MISSIONARY PLAN and explain that it isn't in the hands of the missionaries, but the ward. So, hopefully he got that through his head and will start to help us now.

But, all is going well. We face trails and troubles, but if we endure well, the Lord will bless us for them. I love you all, and thank you for all the support that you give to me. Aloha

Elder Kidd

06/21/10

Aloha

Time is definitely starting to fly, and I find myself unable to remember all that has happened in previous weeks. We always joke that a mission is like a lifetime, and we give events nicknames related to life (being born, dying, getting old, etc). So, perhaps I have hit the "getting old" and so I will claim that my memory is subsiding. Perhaps it is simply that the Lord is blessing me to be able to focus a little more on the here and now, so everything else slips out of my brain. But anyway, lets see what I remember...

Derek has spent most of the last week being sick and busy. Saturday, one of their drivers managed to get the engine to overheat and seize. So, Derek gets to tear apart and rebuild the entire motor over again. He did this to another engine not to long ago. In fact, Elder Mathews helped rebuild the last one. Maybe I will try to help a little with this one.

Most of our time this last week was spent with the Hurtado family helping the wife and son prepare for their baptism this Saturday. I think the wife was extremely nervous because she and her husband just got married a little over a year ago, but we were able to set her at ease about that. She is converting from Inglsia ni Cristo, which is a Filipino church that I will have to explain more about when I get home. To put it simply, they don't like us, and we don't really like them.

This last week also seemed to be filled with a lot of people that wanted to argue with us. We took one of the young men out with us (Jewell) and went tracting. Well, three people on a doorstep looks a little menacing, so I stayed back around the corner. I heard Elder Pontanares and Jewell talking to some guy through his window, and from the tone of his voice, I could tell he wasn't one of the 'elect.' Then, he asked what version of the bible we use, and responded that they use the New World Translation. (Strike two), and then he let us in. Well, Elder Pontanares couldn't understand him incredibly well because he was talking fast, and Jewell didn't know how to respond, so I got to handle the situation. I've never seen an elderly gentleman make such a fool of himself, but unfortunately he wasn't listening to what he said. He tried twisting my words and didn't really listen to anything I said (I wonder if he listened to anything). Anyway, the Lord helped me stay calm, and we managed to get out of there. So, now Jewell knows the not-so-plesant side of missionary work.

But anyway, the week went pretty well. We taught a lot of lessons, and were able to help a lot of people. We also were able to meet with one of my favorite families in the ward, the Mo'es, and had a great meeting with them. They are active, but the husband has to work most Sundays and is only able to attend sacrament, so we are going to give them spiritual thoughts in the evening. But all in all, it's cool.

As always, and forever, thank you all for all that you do for me, and all you have done. I love you all!

Elder Kidd

06/14/10

So, I have to tell everyone about the bumper sticker I saw on the way over to the library today. "I finally got everything together, and then I forgot where I put it." Seems to be my life a lot of days anymore.

But, onto the week. It was another difficult week, but I'm starting to think that that is because my expectations are very high for the last part of my mission. We had a lot of cancelled appointments, a couple of disappointing experiences, but in the end the Kaleuati boys got baptized and confirmed, which made everything better. It was the smallest baptism I have ever been too. I was joking with a member (Sis Young) that all you need for a baptism is three priesthood holders and the person being baptized. Well, we had four priesthood holders, and not many more people there. The only ones that were there that didn't have some direct part in the program were the kids mom and sister. Elder Pontanares and I spoke. But I think I like smaller baptisms anyway. It is more special that way.

Derek and Ericah are doing well, just not engaged yet. They may have gone to the temple visitor center today. I have to call them. I'm starting to think more and more of a young teeage couple that doesn't feel quite ready for responsibility when I see them... Hopefully they will come soon though.

Kelsea is still terrified to tell her grandfather. But, as our fellowshipper and we agree, she is only 11, and doesn't want to upset her family. I have faith that if she tells him that he will not only support her, but join her in the end, but lots of prayers are going to be required.

The Hurtados are doing well. Elder Pontanares is a huge asset when it comes to Filippeanos. We should be able to start teaching atleast one new family this week that we found. I've never been let into so many houses, especially after "Tapo" is the only thing that is said. It is boggling my mind.

I also got to speak this Sunday in church. I spoke on Alma the youngers experience, and then bishop built off of my talk to continue on. I really like our bishop. He served his mission in Hawaii (started in Waianae), came back and married a girl from here, and then became bishop. He is working right now to help strengthen the ward since, as he pointed out, most of the members are either recent converts, or just coming back to church. So, we are back to the basics for them, but it is going well.

We got the phone call last night about transfers, and as was expected, Elder Pontanares and I will be staying together for my final six weeks. I found out for sure (through another missionary I go home with) that we do land on July 30 in the morning. He said his parents already had the itinerary.

So, all is well here. I hope all is well for everyone back home. Thank you all for all that you continue to do. I love you all!

Aloha

Elder Kidd

06/07/10

Aloha

So, I'm actually typing this in the body of another email, and then I will transfer it over to the normal one. I am sending a few pictures to our mission president and his wife, and it is taking forever for the pictures to upload. So, here I sit on this page, and I figure, why not type out my other email? Ahh, brilliant...

This has been an interesting week. Zone conference, canceled appointments, marriage discussions, baptismal invitations, and more canceled appointments. But we keep rolling.

Derek and Ericah (I finally got both of their names due to Ericah drawing during stake conference) had a fun week. We went over on Tuesday and Thursday, and had some good conversations. But Saturday. We showed up, and Derek told us that they had been fighting. So, he wanted us to go talk to Ericah for a bit to calm her down. Well, through both conversations we had before party a and b met up, I think we figured out what was going on. Derek felt like Ericah has such high standards that he has to work so hard to meet them, and so he wants her to be grateful for what she has. Ericah thinks Derek works too much and spends too much time with his friends. So, we read the Family Proclamation with them, and told them that they needed to find a gentle balance between work, possessions, and time together. They both realized that they needed to make some sacrifices, and seemed much happier yesterday. Hopefully some big things soon.

We spent a lot of time this last week simply trying to get ahold of the Kaleuati family since two of their boys are supposed to get baptized this next Saturday. We thought we were going to have to postpone it, but yesterday we got everything situated and organized, so they are doing well.

Kelsea is struggling right now because she is still afraid to tell her Grandpa about meeting with us. But we found out that more so, she is scared when he learns that her friend Sarah is a member, that he won't let her hang with her anymore. So, we are trying to figure out now what the Lord wants us to do in this situation.

The Hurtado family is doing well. We invited the son (Ralph) and mom (Marilyn) to be baptized on June 26. They seem to be excited. So, there is a lot this family is going to be able to do. Elder Pontanares is doing wonders with them.

We also had zone conference this last Thursday. I thought it would be the last one I would have with President Peterson, but I found out that there will be one more 2 days before he goes home. So, I will not have a zone conference with the new mission president… but I will have two interviews with him. Zone conference was very good, and as usual helped lift my spirits and get me going again.

So, there are trials and struggles, but there is a lot going on as well. After the trails come the blessings. That is for sure. I love you all. Keep smiling, and thank you for all you do for me!

Elder Kidd

Some Pictures

So, I thought I would send some pictures from this last week. I think I got a really good one of me, then I played around with it a little. So, the first two are that, and the last is of our baptism. I love you all.

Elder Kidd

06/01/10

Aloha

First, thank you to all that wished me a happy birthday. It was a very interesting day, but I will try to get to that later.

This was again a week of struggles, but still very good. On Thursday we had 8 appointments schedualed, and only 2 went through. But I guess in the majors a .250 average isn't too bad. It gets frustrating, but fortunately we were able to reschedual most of those appointments for a later day. Also, things didn't go quite as planned for Harley and Charlene. Harley backed out of the baptism, but he still wants to in the future, he just still doesn't feel ready, so we are going to keep working with him.

But Charlene stayed through. I think this all may have been an experience she needed to help her stay strong. She was very scared this last week about getting baptized since her brother backed out. But, when it came down to it, she was able to stick it out, and felt so much better. It was awesome as well for me because I was able to baptize her. It also showed again to me that nothing worthwhile comes easily. This was one of the most meaningful baptisms on my mission so far (Derek's will be the most) because of all of the work we had to put into it. So, I baptized her on Saturday, and then Elder Pontanares confirmed her on Sunday.

Hmm, most of the week has turned into a blur, but Friday.... Friday Elder Simnitt and I were on an exchange. I had set up a lesson with a lady they refered to us named Kevie. We went in with the knowledge that she was a little handicapped (mentally and physically), and that was all. What we found was a very argumentative lady, and it took us a while to get through the restoration. She kept telling us that we wouldn't sway her mind, and asking questions to Elder Simnitt that we couldn't understand. In the end she quieted down, and was very impressed with us. She told Elder Simnitt that he was strong and always stayed on his point, but said that I never flinched at anything that she said and always stayed calm. I guess I am good at controlling my emotions in that sense. It was interesting because she never argued with me, only Elder Simnitt. Anyways, when we said we wanted to come back, she was stunned again, thinking we would run away and never return. But, I have faith that the Lord works miracles, so we'll see.

Anyway, Sunday.... May 30... my birthday. It started out normal, until we got to the church. Then, the bishop asked me if I would do one of the baby blessings for the Hurtado family (the Philppeano famliy we found). So, sacrament we ended up having 3 baby blessings and a confirmation. Yet, with all of this, Our crazy member lady still managed to bear her testimony... but it wasn't too bad... until the end. But, I don't think anyone was too upset.

Afterwards, we went to Derek's to have a lesson with him. He is doing so much missionary work, it is amazing. He wants us to teach his daughter, and while we were there got us to teach his m (who seems very interested, but we'll see if it was an act or not). I can't wait until his baptism.

After that, we ran over to Mina's house (where Harley and Charlene live) to celebrate Charlene's baptism and my birthday by eating a special dinner, called Balut. Balut is a Filippeano dish, that is a hard boiled egg.... oh wait, the egg has had a chicken (or duck) sitting on it for a couple of weeks, so there is an unhatched bird inside. It didn't taste too bad, but the idea is what was gross. A video should be showing up on Facebook soon of it.

But all in all, it was amazing. Things are looking good for the coming weeks as well. I am learning through all the opposition we are facing that if we endure through, the Lord pours out His blessings upon us, we just have to keep going. Thank you all for all the support and love and I love you all!

Elder Kidd

05/24/10

Aloha and miracle May

It has been quite an exciting week. So exciting and productive that our Zone Leaders were wondering where our numbers came from. Ok... maybe politely questioning if we made them up or not. Sad that we can't seem to please them, but oh well. We did well, and we know it.

We were able to teach a lot of people this last week, but I think the miracles came more as we were able to begin teaching more people. First of all is Chris and Trisha, who were taught by missionaries almost a year ago, and elders quite stopping by. So, we went by, had a good lesson, and they are excited for all our future visits. They have struggled in the past with church attendance, and they aren't married, but we can help people get over that.

Next were the Hurtado family, a Filipino family that had gone less active a while ago, but have a son they want to have get baptized... and a non member wife. So,they are excited to have us come by, and my companion is super excited to meet with them.

Lastly the Kaleuati ohana, who provided the miracle to lift my spirits yesterday. The wife (Olive) just started coming back to church. We were supposed to stop by a couple of times to talk to them, but they were never home. We finally were able to meet with them last night, and they are excited to have us come by. Three of the kids have not been baptized, and they are excited to learn and come back to church. Olive was in tears for part of the short message we shared, and is so grateful that we are coming over. So, with that miracle, we continued on.

Most of our investigators did well this last week, but when Sunday came, Charrise, JJ, Harley, and Derek were not there, though they had said they would be. Derek showed up later, and Harley had to help his uncle, but JJ and Charrise were a disappointment. So, we will continue on.

Kelsea is the young girl we started teaching a while ago, who has member friends. She is super nervous about baptism, but wants me to baptize her. Her friend leaves next week, but gets back my last day in Waianae. So, it is looking like we will be having a baptism that last night if all goes well, which would be fine by me.

Derek and Erica are progressing. We answered a lot of questions for them this last week in our meetings, but Derek had some big news and made my week. He told us that he almost has all of the money for Erica's ring, which is awesome. But, he also told me that if something were to happen and he didn't get baptized before I left, that he would fly me back for the baptism, and I think he wants to fly me back for the sealing. The Lord truely does bless us and I guess I have been able to help Derek.

So, all is going well. Thank you all for your love and support. I won't get to write until Tuesday next week due to Memorial Day. I love you all!

Elder Kidd

04/17/10

"Cough" Aloha

Yeah, so I got sick yesterday. It was a very interesting experience in church, because I literally felt like I was about to pass out and fall over. I got a short nap after church, but the night was horrible. I went to be at 9:30, but probably fell asleep at 11, and then work up at 1, tossed and turned until 2:30, prayed for a bit, tossed and turned some more, and then decided to read some old ensigns we had (after drinking a big cup of warm milk... that didn't help), and finally fell asleep again around 4:15, and woke up drenched in sweat. So, amazingly I actually feel pretty good today. Still a little sick, but I am not falling asleep at the computer like I thought I would.

But anyway, this week was an awesome week. We had a lot of cancelled appointments, but that is fairly regular. We also were able to teach a few people we hadn't taught for a while. And Elder Pontanares is doing well.

We started out Monday evening by teaching Russell, who is from the Philippines as well. So, I didn't know much of what was going on in the lesson. It seemed to go well, we are just going to have troubles getting him to church. We have another lesson tonight, and hopefully the other lady in the house will sit in as well.

Tuesday we were able to teach Brian Cullen again. We hadn't taught him for almost a month. By the end of the lesson (the gospel of Jesus Christ) he was definitely deep in thought. It sounds as though he has a bit of a history that is going to take a bit for him to change, so we will see how it goes.

We also taught Harley and Charlene, and were able to help them along the path to baptism again. We actually recommitted them to baptism on the 29th of this month (right before Charlene flies out to vegas for a couple of weeks). The problem is that we had dinner with them on Thursday, and we were supposed to eat balout, which is basically a chicken that never hatched... well, Mina, our wonderful member forgot, so she told us we needed to come over the night they get confirmed to eat it instead in celebration.... so, I'll let everyone know how that is.

Wednesday we were able to teach Linda again, who we haven't taught for a while. We were able to take a member of the ward, and she seemed to finally understand why the Book of Mormon, and the restoration are important. So, we will see how things go with her in the coming weeks.

Thursday we were able to have a good lesson with Charrise, but unfortunately she wasn't able to come to church. We actually saw a little bit of a miracle. A security company from Utah has been going around our ward for the last little bit, and most of the workers are members. So, one found out we were coming, and wondered if he could come back for our lesson. And he did a great job. Our only concern is that it seems that Charrise's daughter thought he tried to walk into the house a day later... so we will see how that all works out.

Friday we had interviews with our mission president, and I found out that it was my last interview with President Peterson. It seems my next one will be with the new president, President Dalton. I had a temple recommend interview, and we did it all in room, so, an interview while sitting on my bed. It was definately a new experience. But later that night, Cy Kaahanui (my mini missionary) came up to help us teach a lesson. He leaves in a little less than a month for his mission, so it was good to see him again, and we got to teach JJ. JJ is still struggling to get fully motivated, so hopefully something will click soon.

Saturday we had an awesome meeting with Derek and Erica, where we fully explained the law of chastity, and they listed the reasons they haven't gotten married. Most of the reasons seemed to be finacial, but we gave them some advice to find alternatives, and also explained that the Lord would bless them. So, Derek seemed super excited to start figuring it out.

Last night we had a lesson with Kelsea (the Lord blessed me with enough health to make it through the lesson). She is still a little hesitant about baptism, but we helped her realize that she has felt the spirit, and she knows what to do. Now her only concern is her family. But this morning at about 3:45, I read an article in the Ensign about a girl who got baptized at 12 without any other members of her family, so I think we will give that to her.

So, all is going well. We have a lot of potential, and are super excited about all that is happening. Elder Pontanares is learning a lot. He has a ways to go, but he is doing well. I love you all, and as always, thank you for all your support.

Elder Kidd

05/03/10

Alright, so the transfer information is:......... I am staying in Waianae, and Elder Mathews is leaving. So, it is a little sad to see him leave, but at the same time I am excited for a new companion. I'm afraid Elder Mathews has burned himself out when it comes to Waianae, and is ready to go somewhere else. It has been hard to get things done when he has no faith in some of the people we are working with. He is also headed off of O'ahu, so he is really excited about that.

It has been another tough week. We had to go to Honolulu another couple of times for Elder Mathew's staph infection. Apparently it is a really bad case because we took so long to take him in. We actually went this morning for his last check-up (has to be the last since he is leaving). I realized again that I hate Honolulu. It was so hard to get back on the freeway, and there are so many people that we actually got locked in the parking lot for about 10 minutes. But, others may enjoy it.

With transfers, the chance that I will finish my mission in Waianae has greatly increased, which I am ok with. I made up a list of goals I had if I stayed, and there were about 7 names with "baptize" in front of them on that list, and a couple with "reactivate" in front of them. There is a lot that I want to do, so now is the time I get to do it. Also, I know that I won't ever have to serve in Honolulu! Hurray!

Things went ok other than that this last week. We got word yesterday at church that Harley and Charlene don't feel ready for their baptism on Saturday, so we will be pushing that back a bit. Derrick is still doing well, but Erica still doesn't want to get married. Charrise is awesome in lessons, but can't seem to make it to church. So, there are a lot of things that need to be done, but a lot of potential at the same time.

So, on Wednesday begins a new day. Now is a time to shine. I am so excited. I love you all, and will talk to those that are in Ohio on Sunday! I love you all.

Elder Kidd

04/26/10

Honolulu

Yeah, I've actually spent a good amount of time in the big city this last week, and I have learned again that I do not like Honolulu, and am praying that the Lord never makes me serve there.

But why have I been there? Well, on Wednesday we went to teach a lesson at the church, and our investigator and fellowshipper both have nursing backgrounds. So, they looked at Elder Mathew's arm, and told him they were going to kidnap him and take him to the doctor because the antibiotics he had weren't working... So instead he called the office and we went down to Honolulu... and have continued to do so every day since (Today made day six) so that he can get an IV with antibiotics. It was staph, but it doesn't look like it became merca (or however you spell it). I have realized that I have spent an incredible amount of time in that doctor's office (Elder Stewart, Lauritzen, and now Mathews). He is supposed to have only one more treatment, but I can't go with him tomorrow because of our district meeting.

So, that made everything fun this last week, and really took a lot of time out of everything. We didn't get to teach very many people due to that either, but are looking forward to this next week. I'm afraid I am also looking forward to transfers next week as well because I don't feel I am able to help Elder Mathews any more, and I want to be able to do more work than I currently am able to with him.

One interesting thing happened yesterday. In our PEC meeting, we brought up the Miller family and that they need fellowship, and that they still don't have home teachers. Well, our High Priest Group Leader busts out and says that home teachers are nice, but not really important, and that the family needs to convert themselves now..................................................................................

so, after the awkward silence we continued, and I came to the realization of why it is that barely anyone in our ward does their home teaching. He called us later that night trying to tell us how to do our job as missionaries too. But we love all members, and are glad that they are trying to be involved. ;- ()

So, we'll see how things go. But that was pretty much our week. I love you all, and am continually grateful for all that you do. Remember to smile!

Elder Kidd

04/19/10

loha

So, we have had a much better week this last week. Of course there were still set-backs, but such is life. We were hoping to have 8-9 investigators at sacrament meeting, and we ended up having only 4, but that still is really good. Also, all the missionaries in my district are doing well as well.

So, as for the week. We were able to begin teaching a nice guy named Russel on Monday. We are going to have a hard time getting him to come to church because he works in a care home, but we think that he will get there eventually.

Wednesday I was on an exchange with one of our Zone Leaders, which was nice. We were able to begin teaching the neice and nephew of a lady that my trainer actually baptized about 2 years ago. Anyway, we were able to commit them to be baptized on May 1st, so they are super excited. They are smart kids, and are doing well. Charlene used to go to church a lot, and really likes coming to church now. Harley, her younger brother, isn't quite as into it, but still seems to like it and enjoy it.

Unfortunately, JJ doesn't feel ready for his baptism date, so we have to postpone it for a while. He didn't come to church yesterday either, and we haven't been able to get ahold of him to see why. So, hopefully we can get that straightened out soon.

But Derrick continues to make great strides. We had a few good discussions with him this last week, and with Erica. He committed to stop smoking weed on May 3rd, which is his birthday, and then told us that he should be ready for baptism around the 24th. The only problem is getting married, which Erica doesn't seem ready or excited about yet. We talked about it for a bit one night, and I don't think she really appriciated it, but I think she's gotten over it. Both Elder Mathews and I have realized that you can't worry about offending people in a job where you are supposed to raise red flags.

We are afraid that our recent converts down at Sunflower are really struggling, atleast the Millers are. They didn't come to church yesterday, and seemed to be avoiding Jesse Kealoha (their neighbor) who tried to talk to them. It seems they got offended at church... or rather by someone at church who said something one day when they weren't there. We're pretty sure that the wife is smoking again too. But, the ward needs to be the one, and I think they are going to get in there and work on it.

But all in all it was a good week. It ended with us going to the local medical center yesterday because my companion has something on his arm that they think is Staph infection... so he isn't too thrilled about that right now. It was interesting to be sitting in a doctor's office on Sunday, and we made too many jokes about how ghetto the place was. So, I pray I never need to go there again.

But all is going well. There is so much potential here. May should be a month of many miracles and baptisms. I love you all, and mahalo nui loa!

Elder Kidd

04/12/10

loha

So, have you ever noticed that life just has a way of making sure that nothing works out the way you planned or even hoped for? Well, with the gospel even that is ok. We had a lot of cancels this week, a few things that didn't go through as we were hoping, but in the end it was alright.

So, I realized yesterday once again that I hate fast Sundays. Especially in this ward. I think I have met more characters in this ward that love to bear their testimony than ever before. I wonder if there is any way to install a trap door by the podium that the bishop can trigger and send them out of the building. He could use it. I think we had 6 people that were able to bear their testimonies yesterday. Three were really good (high councilman, the patriarch, and maybe one more?) and three that we wish wouldn't have gotten up. Apparently one of those no longer beats his wife (too much information) and the other has more medical problems than she can count (I think she quit counting before she got to the mental section), but it was alright. Derrick came to church and liked it, but we made sure that he didn't listen to a lot of the testimonies.

The biggest thing that happened this week was with Derrick. We taught him 5 times. He hasn't quite committed for baptism, and it is really interesting to teach a lesson with a pot plant less than five feet away, but they have goals and are working towards them. Elder Mathews is amazing at relation to Derrick, so we should be able to get everything figured out shortly. He also decided he isn't going to move for a little while, so we should be able to baptize him in our ward.

So, a note for anyone that feeds the missionaries, a lot of us like breakfast for dinner. Crazy as it sounds (and our members have said this to us repetedly) we never really get a hot breakfast. Ceral and oatmeal gets old quickly, so pancakes and waffles are amazing. So, we had breakfast last night, and it was delicious.

Bryan is doing well, but appparently the shelter he lives at wouldn't let him leave yesterday to come to church. His brother is going to work on that for next week. We have a meeting with him tonight as well. Apparently his brother gave him a copy of the Testiments, which he watched at the shelter. While he was watching it, a lot of other people watched it as well. So, we gave him another cd to watch over there. ; )

But all is going well. There are stuggles and trials that arise, but we can always endure through them. If we remember what the Savior told Joseph Smith in Liberty jail (D&C 121 and 122), these things are for our good. We will be blessed as we endure. If the very jaws of hell gape open after us, it will still be for our good, and our Savior has gone beneith all of these things for us so that we can endure through, and He can comfort us when we stand in need of comfort. At the same time, we have covenanted to help others as well. Perhaps serving others can be our way out of our own troubles and sorrow (remember Patch Adams). The Lord loves us, and we know that better than anyone in this gospel.

I love you all, and as always, mahola and aloha mui loa

Elder Kidd