Aloha
There are definately some benefits to a new transfer. One of those is the new missionary in the pad. He seems to be distracting me from his companion (The DL), so he hasn't been getting on my nerves as much this week.
The bad thing seems to be that my companion has gotten in a bad mood. I'm not entirely sure why, but I have some suspicions. His sister got married on Saturday, he broke some of the work out equiptment, and he is stuck in Hilo (he hates Hilo). Basically, I feel like the line from Hitch: "And if that sign on your forehead that says"Go Away" doesn't say it..." (Edited on purpose). Its been a rough couple of days. Hopefully by tonight it will be better. It doesn't seem to be as of yet, but thats what P-days are for!
Anyway, this last week was a bit of a rough one. We had a few cancelations, a few no shows, and we are having a really hard time getting in touch with Ahia. She has been really busy at work lately thought. A group of supervisors or something like that came in from Missiouri and her boss is out of town, meaning... PANIC! She is in charge, so she has been extremely busy. She said she was going to be in church yesterday, but didn't make it, and we couldn't get in touch with her. I still have high hopes though, and I think this week will go better.
As for Carey O'oka (the 25+ year investigator), we have an appointment with him tomorrow right after our district meeting, and he seems extremely excited. He came to church yesterday, and made quite a few good comments in Gospel Essentials. He says he wants to get baptized soon, and now has made it clear that HE wants home lessons, so foreward we go!
We had a really good lesson with a media referal we got this morning. His name is Mason. We have been struggling with him a bit in the recent past. He wants a sign, and keeps arguing with a lot that we say. We finally found a good analogy this morning, and commited him to read and pray about that Book of Mormon. Well, when we left, he was reading. It was as if his whole countinence changed while we were there. It was amazing. He is super busy right now, but I wouldn't be surprised if he called us today or tomorrow and asked us to come over really quickly because he knows it's true. We're super excited!
It's going to be amazing to see the house all different when I get home. I half want to claim the downstairs bedroom already, but then I realize I won't be home long before school starts.
So, there are definatley ups right now. There are a few downs, but that is how it goes on a mission. It is all good though, and life is going well. Thank you all for your continued support, and I hope all is going well. I love you all!
Elder Kidd
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Monday, June 8, 2009
06/01/09
Aloha!
Well, that time has come for transfers again, and I have found out that.... my companion and I are staying together (much astonished sounds and gasping). Yes, for the first time on my mission, I will have a companion longer that a transfer. Unfortunately, my district leader is staying, so it may be an intersting 6 weeks.
It has been a fantasitc, crazy, unnerving, and miraculous week. We started out on Tuesday by finally being able to meet up with Ahia, who I had mentioned before in my emails. It turns out she hasn't read most of the Book of Mormon, but she has read a bit, and felt the spirit as well. She is dating a member, and works with afore mentioned member's brother. The brother gave her a Book of Mormon a while ago, but she forgot about it and lost it. Well, the boyfriend gave her a quad, which she began reading. Imagine our surprise when we meet her, and she says, "Oh, let me get my stuff," and then grabs a quad. It began a long conversation that proved to us that she is golden. She has the desire to know and learn. She came to church yesterday, but had to leave early for work. She liked it though, and told us she really wants to meet with us again. We will be happy to comply.
We also had a good lesson with Cathy, but are having struggles with her. She likes most everything about the church, but has some interesting beliefs that she holds to very dearly. We simply asked her to read and pray and promised she would receive answers she is looking for. We aren't sure if she is crazy or not, but she sure seems crazy sometimes. We hope for the best and will continue to help her though.
On Friday we went to dinner with Carey O'oka, who is the man that has been investigating the church for 25 years and recently told us that he doesn't want home lessons. He did want to have us come for dinner though. While at dinner, we met a friend of his who has talked to missionaries before. She said that the only reason she didn't get baptized before was because she didn't like the idea of worshipping dead people. Well, we finally figured out that she meant baptisms for the dead, so we explained what they really are. We are meeting with her on Wednesday at 7.
Speaking of Carey O'oka though, he wants us to teach her at his house (but he still doesn't want home lessons) and he told us and a few members yesterday at church that he wants to be baptized soon (but still doesn't seem to want us to be teaching him) but really likes us... yeah....
The crazy thing was that night. We went and watched Joseph Smith: The Prophet of the Restoration with a recent convert in our ward. Well, she lives right across from Barbara and Robert (two investigators we are pretty sure are crazy). Well, it turns out Barbara had overdosed on something, so our ward mission leader had to call the ambulance for her. It was an intersting experience. Anyway, we left and apparently she came walking out later by herself. She comes home from the pych ward today.
Saturday we were able to meet with Tara, an investigator we have had for a while that has a problem getting work off on Sunday. We had a good lesson with her, so hopefully she will be able to make more of an effort to get work off now.
This morning we had a fun lesson with Mason, the golfer who has issues with religion. We taught the plan of salvation, but spent most of the time answering questions. He has a lot of valid concerns, but it seems as though he may have dabbled in some anti-lititure at one point (something he said seemed like a line from "The godmakers"). He wants a sign, and I felt like a broken record player telling him to pray and ask if things were true. So, we took a step back and asked him to pray if God was real. We are meeting with him at the church on Friday, and hopefully he will feel the spirit there.
So, that has been our week. Things are going really well over here, and we are excited. I want to say thank you for the many birthday wishes I received, and say that I love the newsletters I get from the family. I hope all is going well for everyone, thank you for your continued success, and I love you all!
Elder Kidd
P.S. These are some pictures of a sunset a couple of weeks ago. The vog was crazy that morning.
Well, that time has come for transfers again, and I have found out that.... my companion and I are staying together (much astonished sounds and gasping). Yes, for the first time on my mission, I will have a companion longer that a transfer. Unfortunately, my district leader is staying, so it may be an intersting 6 weeks.
It has been a fantasitc, crazy, unnerving, and miraculous week. We started out on Tuesday by finally being able to meet up with Ahia, who I had mentioned before in my emails. It turns out she hasn't read most of the Book of Mormon, but she has read a bit, and felt the spirit as well. She is dating a member, and works with afore mentioned member's brother. The brother gave her a Book of Mormon a while ago, but she forgot about it and lost it. Well, the boyfriend gave her a quad, which she began reading. Imagine our surprise when we meet her, and she says, "Oh, let me get my stuff," and then grabs a quad. It began a long conversation that proved to us that she is golden. She has the desire to know and learn. She came to church yesterday, but had to leave early for work. She liked it though, and told us she really wants to meet with us again. We will be happy to comply.
We also had a good lesson with Cathy, but are having struggles with her. She likes most everything about the church, but has some interesting beliefs that she holds to very dearly. We simply asked her to read and pray and promised she would receive answers she is looking for. We aren't sure if she is crazy or not, but she sure seems crazy sometimes. We hope for the best and will continue to help her though.
On Friday we went to dinner with Carey O'oka, who is the man that has been investigating the church for 25 years and recently told us that he doesn't want home lessons. He did want to have us come for dinner though. While at dinner, we met a friend of his who has talked to missionaries before. She said that the only reason she didn't get baptized before was because she didn't like the idea of worshipping dead people. Well, we finally figured out that she meant baptisms for the dead, so we explained what they really are. We are meeting with her on Wednesday at 7.
Speaking of Carey O'oka though, he wants us to teach her at his house (but he still doesn't want home lessons) and he told us and a few members yesterday at church that he wants to be baptized soon (but still doesn't seem to want us to be teaching him) but really likes us... yeah....
The crazy thing was that night. We went and watched Joseph Smith: The Prophet of the Restoration with a recent convert in our ward. Well, she lives right across from Barbara and Robert (two investigators we are pretty sure are crazy). Well, it turns out Barbara had overdosed on something, so our ward mission leader had to call the ambulance for her. It was an intersting experience. Anyway, we left and apparently she came walking out later by herself. She comes home from the pych ward today.
Saturday we were able to meet with Tara, an investigator we have had for a while that has a problem getting work off on Sunday. We had a good lesson with her, so hopefully she will be able to make more of an effort to get work off now.
This morning we had a fun lesson with Mason, the golfer who has issues with religion. We taught the plan of salvation, but spent most of the time answering questions. He has a lot of valid concerns, but it seems as though he may have dabbled in some anti-lititure at one point (something he said seemed like a line from "The godmakers"). He wants a sign, and I felt like a broken record player telling him to pray and ask if things were true. So, we took a step back and asked him to pray if God was real. We are meeting with him at the church on Friday, and hopefully he will feel the spirit there.
So, that has been our week. Things are going really well over here, and we are excited. I want to say thank you for the many birthday wishes I received, and say that I love the newsletters I get from the family. I hope all is going well for everyone, thank you for your continued success, and I love you all!
Elder Kidd
P.S. These are some pictures of a sunset a couple of weeks ago. The vog was crazy that morning.
05/25/09
Malo e lele
We'll try a little tongan this week...
Well, it seems the thing I learned most this week is that there are a a lot of crazy people in Hilo. And when I say crazy, I mean completley off their rockers. The problem is, as missionaries we listen to them because we want to help them, and then they love us because no one else in the world listenes to them. By the time we realize they are not accountable and that teaching them may not be the best course of action in the world, we are their best friends, and can't get away from them.
The greatest part was when my district leader told my companion and I that one ladies salvation was on our shoulders if we didn't teach her. Well, my comanion works out for 90 minutes every day, and his only complaint is that we don't have enough weight for him, and I weigh over 200 lbs (but barely! I'm going down). Lets just say we both just stared at him and pondered over whether it would be worth it to get transfered out of this area for hitting him. We decided against that action though.
But, we are working with some sane people as well, and we got a referal this morning of a girl that told her friend she is ready for the missionaries to come over (oh yeah, she has already read the Book of Mormon up to 4 Nephi), so super excited are we!
Last night we had an interesting night. Our zone decided to have a movie night at the chapel. We watched the Testiments. The funny thing was, my companion and I forgot to invite anyone, so we had it announced in our wards on sunday (only once). Well, we had two members from each of our wards, and two new investigators that were there (I think two other people that weren't missionaries showed up). So, we really enjoyed the movie.
Right after that, we got a message from a less active in our ward that we have been working with. She has a smoking and heart problem. Well, she was panicing (sp? nothing looks right on spelling that word), so we went over and gave her a blessing. It was amazing the change that happened during the blessing. It is a true testimony of the power of the priesthood.
I gave a talk yesterday in one of our wards, and decided to speak on Joseph Smith. On these thoughts, I tried to help our ward see the true need to have a testimony in Joseph Smith and what he was able to do for us. We need to follow his example and ask of God. Remember his words after the First Vision? "I had seen a vision. I knew it, and I knew God knew it, and I could not deny it." May we all strive to apply those words to our own testimony: I know it, and I know God knows it, and I cannot deny it.
Ofa'atu, and mahalos, and much aloha!
Elder Kidd
We'll try a little tongan this week...
Well, it seems the thing I learned most this week is that there are a a lot of crazy people in Hilo. And when I say crazy, I mean completley off their rockers. The problem is, as missionaries we listen to them because we want to help them, and then they love us because no one else in the world listenes to them. By the time we realize they are not accountable and that teaching them may not be the best course of action in the world, we are their best friends, and can't get away from them.
The greatest part was when my district leader told my companion and I that one ladies salvation was on our shoulders if we didn't teach her. Well, my comanion works out for 90 minutes every day, and his only complaint is that we don't have enough weight for him, and I weigh over 200 lbs (but barely! I'm going down). Lets just say we both just stared at him and pondered over whether it would be worth it to get transfered out of this area for hitting him. We decided against that action though.
But, we are working with some sane people as well, and we got a referal this morning of a girl that told her friend she is ready for the missionaries to come over (oh yeah, she has already read the Book of Mormon up to 4 Nephi), so super excited are we!
Last night we had an interesting night. Our zone decided to have a movie night at the chapel. We watched the Testiments. The funny thing was, my companion and I forgot to invite anyone, so we had it announced in our wards on sunday (only once). Well, we had two members from each of our wards, and two new investigators that were there (I think two other people that weren't missionaries showed up). So, we really enjoyed the movie.
Right after that, we got a message from a less active in our ward that we have been working with. She has a smoking and heart problem. Well, she was panicing (sp? nothing looks right on spelling that word), so we went over and gave her a blessing. It was amazing the change that happened during the blessing. It is a true testimony of the power of the priesthood.
I gave a talk yesterday in one of our wards, and decided to speak on Joseph Smith. On these thoughts, I tried to help our ward see the true need to have a testimony in Joseph Smith and what he was able to do for us. We need to follow his example and ask of God. Remember his words after the First Vision? "I had seen a vision. I knew it, and I knew God knew it, and I could not deny it." May we all strive to apply those words to our own testimony: I know it, and I know God knows it, and I cannot deny it.
Ofa'atu, and mahalos, and much aloha!
Elder Kidd
05/18/09
Aloha
Right now I can't tell if I am a little sick, or just suffering from the vog (volcanic fog, nice poisonus, sulferus gasses). Either way, coughing has been a common thing this last week, but oh well. Proves that Hawaii isn't always the greatest place in the world.
This last week has been an intersting one. We had some ups, some downs, some "What the"s and some "Hmmm"s.
One of our biggest ups is that we got a referal from Provo (which they got from a member who just moved from our ward) for a guy in our area. He is a little skeptical of religions, but is willing to put it to the test. He seems like a great guy, and could definiatley use the gospel.
One down was that two of our investigators dropped us on Monday. Well, one is moving to O'ahu for the summer, but he does want missionaries coming there. One of our zone leaders thinks he may be headed to the ward he lives in, so that would be awesome. The other is Carey O'oka (yes, it can sound a little like Kareokee (sp?)). We called on Monday to try to set up an appointment with him, and he told us that he doesn't feel ready for the gospel yet. But, we found out yesterday that he is Bi-Polor, so that might be why. We asked the bishop to send someone a little more familiar over first though.
We have also realized this week that there seem to be a lot of interesting (and by intersting I mean absolutely crazy) people in Hilo, and we are teaching a couple. We are going to have our bishop meet them before we get too far along in teaching. Our mission president told me that "for lack of a better word, they become his problem after they are baptized". So yeah... our bishop is happy that we are doing that though.
We had zone conference on Friday, and that was a "hmmm" moment for my companion and I. It was a very good zone conference, but everything seemed to be focused on baptism. My companion and I came to the conclusion afterwards (and we pretty much had before Friday as well) that we are going to do everything we can to help people get to baptism, but we aren't going to force them. We both want solid converts who aren't going to fall away. Of course baptism is a goal, and what we would like, but we don't want to get baptism hungry, like a lot of missionaries seem to be. Call me rebelious, but I can't bring myself to force people.
We are looking forward to this week though. There is a lot of potential. If all goes as hoped, we should be able to help 7-8 people come to sacrament this sunday. Add others we hope to find this week, and our areas are starting to see some better activity. So, onward, forward we go.
We had a very interesting converstation with a member last night. He was talking about the research our most active non-member in our ward (thats a funny story) did. Basically, he talked about how stereotypes destroy everything in our life. Not just about races and cultures, but towards adults and children as well. We assume how people are going to react, and they assume how we are going to react. Let us rise above and follow how the gospel tells us we should respond. Our Savior asked us to live in the world, but not be a part of the world.
I love you all, and thank you for all of your support!
Elder Kidd
Right now I can't tell if I am a little sick, or just suffering from the vog (volcanic fog, nice poisonus, sulferus gasses). Either way, coughing has been a common thing this last week, but oh well. Proves that Hawaii isn't always the greatest place in the world.
This last week has been an intersting one. We had some ups, some downs, some "What the"s and some "Hmmm"s.
One of our biggest ups is that we got a referal from Provo (which they got from a member who just moved from our ward) for a guy in our area. He is a little skeptical of religions, but is willing to put it to the test. He seems like a great guy, and could definiatley use the gospel.
One down was that two of our investigators dropped us on Monday. Well, one is moving to O'ahu for the summer, but he does want missionaries coming there. One of our zone leaders thinks he may be headed to the ward he lives in, so that would be awesome. The other is Carey O'oka (yes, it can sound a little like Kareokee (sp?)). We called on Monday to try to set up an appointment with him, and he told us that he doesn't feel ready for the gospel yet. But, we found out yesterday that he is Bi-Polor, so that might be why. We asked the bishop to send someone a little more familiar over first though.
We have also realized this week that there seem to be a lot of interesting (and by intersting I mean absolutely crazy) people in Hilo, and we are teaching a couple. We are going to have our bishop meet them before we get too far along in teaching. Our mission president told me that "for lack of a better word, they become his problem after they are baptized". So yeah... our bishop is happy that we are doing that though.
We had zone conference on Friday, and that was a "hmmm" moment for my companion and I. It was a very good zone conference, but everything seemed to be focused on baptism. My companion and I came to the conclusion afterwards (and we pretty much had before Friday as well) that we are going to do everything we can to help people get to baptism, but we aren't going to force them. We both want solid converts who aren't going to fall away. Of course baptism is a goal, and what we would like, but we don't want to get baptism hungry, like a lot of missionaries seem to be. Call me rebelious, but I can't bring myself to force people.
We are looking forward to this week though. There is a lot of potential. If all goes as hoped, we should be able to help 7-8 people come to sacrament this sunday. Add others we hope to find this week, and our areas are starting to see some better activity. So, onward, forward we go.
We had a very interesting converstation with a member last night. He was talking about the research our most active non-member in our ward (thats a funny story) did. Basically, he talked about how stereotypes destroy everything in our life. Not just about races and cultures, but towards adults and children as well. We assume how people are going to react, and they assume how we are going to react. Let us rise above and follow how the gospel tells us we should respond. Our Savior asked us to live in the world, but not be a part of the world.
I love you all, and thank you for all of your support!
Elder Kidd
05/11/09
Aloha a day later
And about 10 hours of sleep later as well. Since I wasn't feeling well yesterday, and it was Mother's Day, my companion and I came home a bit early, planned quickly for today, and then I went to bed. Well, I think that was the first time in a long time that I have actually gone to bed before 9, and then I woke up this morning at 6:30. It was extremely nice. I still have a bit of a cough, but am doing a lot better.
Ahh, for this week. Monday we had an interesting day. We took our P-day a day later so that our Zone Leaders wouldn't be alone, so Monday we went to work. We were able to teach a lesson to this couple that came to church a couple of times with a member that lives in the apartment across the way from them. Well, we aren't entirely sure how accountable they are, but it is not our place to judge. Either way, they had a friend there that lives in another ward who enjoyed the lesson, so we gave his information to those elders. We'll update you next week on Robert and his girlfriend Barbara.
We were able to provide a little bit of service for Kathy and Pearleen this week. They have had car trouble, and the last little bit was a flat tire that we were able to change... and then change later. The spare hadn't been used in so long that it was very flat, so they ended up just taking a taxi to get a new tire. We put that on for them as well. We were able to have a lesson with Pearleen about family history, and are going to see her and Kathy on Wednesday.
Unfortunantly, Carry O'oka canceled his appointment this week, didn't make it to church, and we never could catch him home. We have to call him today and set up an appointment for tomorrow.
Thursday we had a bit of fun with a lady in one of our wards who is trying to quit smoking. She is a member, but is trying to come back. Anyway, we typed up a contract for her to follow. She is going to quit smoking before May 30. I told her it is her birthday present to me. We had a little too much fun with the contract making is sound as corny as possible.
Saturday morning we had another Free Car Wash to try to find new investigators. The problem was, we didn't have enough signs to advertise it (we've got plans to make it a big and regular activity). Well, we had one lady amongst all that came who seemed solid (she had a head cover to go into the chapel). She thought we were so nice, but is catholic and very happy there. Ever wish you could carry around spiritual 2X4s to smack people with?
And of course yesterday, the wonderful phone call home. It was great to be able to talk to those who came, and sorry to those that couldn't make it, guess church got in the way (dang mormons). I spent most of church trying to cough and sneeze up my lungs. It was a lot of fun. But, it was a wonderful day to remember mothers. So, happy late mother's day to all of the mothers out there, especially to my own. Thank you all for your continued support, your prayers, your love, and everything else. I love you all!
Elder Kidd
And about 10 hours of sleep later as well. Since I wasn't feeling well yesterday, and it was Mother's Day, my companion and I came home a bit early, planned quickly for today, and then I went to bed. Well, I think that was the first time in a long time that I have actually gone to bed before 9, and then I woke up this morning at 6:30. It was extremely nice. I still have a bit of a cough, but am doing a lot better.
Ahh, for this week. Monday we had an interesting day. We took our P-day a day later so that our Zone Leaders wouldn't be alone, so Monday we went to work. We were able to teach a lesson to this couple that came to church a couple of times with a member that lives in the apartment across the way from them. Well, we aren't entirely sure how accountable they are, but it is not our place to judge. Either way, they had a friend there that lives in another ward who enjoyed the lesson, so we gave his information to those elders. We'll update you next week on Robert and his girlfriend Barbara.
We were able to provide a little bit of service for Kathy and Pearleen this week. They have had car trouble, and the last little bit was a flat tire that we were able to change... and then change later. The spare hadn't been used in so long that it was very flat, so they ended up just taking a taxi to get a new tire. We put that on for them as well. We were able to have a lesson with Pearleen about family history, and are going to see her and Kathy on Wednesday.
Unfortunantly, Carry O'oka canceled his appointment this week, didn't make it to church, and we never could catch him home. We have to call him today and set up an appointment for tomorrow.
Thursday we had a bit of fun with a lady in one of our wards who is trying to quit smoking. She is a member, but is trying to come back. Anyway, we typed up a contract for her to follow. She is going to quit smoking before May 30. I told her it is her birthday present to me. We had a little too much fun with the contract making is sound as corny as possible.
Saturday morning we had another Free Car Wash to try to find new investigators. The problem was, we didn't have enough signs to advertise it (we've got plans to make it a big and regular activity). Well, we had one lady amongst all that came who seemed solid (she had a head cover to go into the chapel). She thought we were so nice, but is catholic and very happy there. Ever wish you could carry around spiritual 2X4s to smack people with?
And of course yesterday, the wonderful phone call home. It was great to be able to talk to those who came, and sorry to those that couldn't make it, guess church got in the way (dang mormons). I spent most of church trying to cough and sneeze up my lungs. It was a lot of fun. But, it was a wonderful day to remember mothers. So, happy late mother's day to all of the mothers out there, especially to my own. Thank you all for your continued support, your prayers, your love, and everything else. I love you all!
Elder Kidd
05/04/09
Aloha!
Kiah huh? I hope she enjoys the movie Willow. It scared me to death when I was a kid... But it is a very pretty name. I couldn't open the pictures that Stacie sent though. I did get the ones mom sent.
Anyway, Aloha! It has been a fun week in Hilo, and a very warm one as well. We are starting to get out of the rain a little bit, and get some sunshine. I am starting to remember last year when I first got out here though. It was hot, and I think I prefer the rain.
Hmmm... so what happened this last week... On Tuesday we were able to go and see Carey O'oka again and have a lesson with him. He is doing well, just struggling to get his heart in the right place. He wants to be baptized, and he wants to know it is true, he's just looking for that confirmation right now. So, always a fun time. He can't meet tomorrow, but we should see him on Sunday.
We also had fun doing service on Tuesday as well. And when I say fun, I mean we spent the whole time wondering what in the heck we were doing it for. The lady is a little crazy, and simply likes free labor to try to get the land cleared she is trying to sell... Yeah, so we have been told by numberous people to cease going over there, and we are following that advice. I feel really sorry for her and her husband, but I think she is crazy too, and we don't have time to help her earn a profit off of a bad financial decision.
Oh, by the way, dakine is a word used in Hawaii to mean just about anything, so "small kine" would be small things. "Choke" means a lot. Thought I would try and throw some pigeon in for everyone. Try looking up "Da Jesus Book" to get a copy of the pigeon bible.
Also, I said my district leader is interesting because he is driving me crazy. He is the type of person who doesn't ask, he just does. Throw in that he enjoys pinning things on everyone else, slipping out of doing things, and acts like roalty, he's getting on my nerves. So, a perfect opportunity to learn patience has arrived.
Tuesday night we were able to see Tara, and take a recent convert with us (Helen). We had a good lesson about tithing and fast offerings, and Tara told us that she is working on getting Sundays off (still) and is sincerely searching for answers about what is true. She likes what we teach, but knows she needs that witness. So, add her to Carey O'oka, and Ikaika (Ikaika wants to get baptized, knows it's true, but can't afford to move out of his girlfriends apartment) and we have a lot of solid investigators who are just having those tests of faith at the moment. Slightly frustrating as a missionary, but you do your best, pray for them, and pray for inspiration as to how to help them.
Wednesday we were able to see Kathy and Pearleen and had a good discussion with them. My companion and myself are both wondering if they are crazy or not, but we are still trying to help them. They are very in touch with the "Energy" side of things, so we are trying to help them see that even "energy" comes from Heavenly Father. They weren't at church yesterday though, and we haven't been able to get ahold of them. We'll let you know what happens.
Thursday we had an interesting evening. We taught a good lesson to a less active young man in our ward (who really wants to come to church, but work makes it difficult) and his girlfriend (who is a recent convert and less active with him... two birds, one stone?). The lesson was great, but they live across the street from a couple that is very active, very kind, and a little senile. Well, as we were leaving to go to our dinner appointment, the husband waved us over. When we got there, he handed us each a sandwhich and some veggie chips (they were actually really good), a glass of milk, and some garlic bagle bites. Well, missionaries never turn down food, so we ate it. Well, the conversation starts, "Do you have a dinner tonight?", "Yep", "At what time? 6?", "Yep, at six.", "Oh, you're late. Eat up.". I love brother Auld. So, my companion and I weren't very hungry for our dinner at the New Star Chineese resturant.
The food wasn't terrific though, so I don't know if we minded. I prefered the tomatoe and bacon sandwhich the Aulds gave us. The sad part was that while we were eating, the song "I'm Going Home" by Dautry (spelling even close?) came on. Well, yeah, thats too funny and would make anyone atleast a little homesick. But we laughed about it too (as we sang it to ourselves).
Thursday morning we went to Sister Hess (a less active we are working with) just in time. We came in and she burst into tears because it seemed everything was mounting up on her. Well, that's really not good for someone who has had atleast one heart attack, and possibly two. So, we watched the Restoration with her, calmed her down, swept her floors, and cheered her up. She felt a lot better when we left, and made it to church.
That afternoon we went to see Gail (the buddist lady). While we were there, three of her buddist friends showed up. Well, this wasn't a good finding activity, and most missionaries will agree that friends showing up seems to distract from the lesson. It doesn't help that when they come in they each had to chant and bow to a little shrine thing in the room. Hopefully they were listening while I was bearing testimony of Christ, but it didn't seem that way. They didn't seem to hear anything we said at all, but no effort is wasted, right?
Anyway, Saturday night we went to a reception held at the stake center. If you think you have seen big receptions, you haven't seen anything. There were well over 1,000 people that attended. They had great food though, and a samoan slap dance at the end. That was fun. (You should look up on youtube and see if you can find one. They are really cool.)
Well, as we walked back to our pad, I had to back our Zone Leaders out (stand behind the car and make sure no one was coming). Well, as they were driving away, I thought I would be funny, so I was going to jump and push off their trunk a little to get higher... Yeah, stupid. Well, I either misjudged how fast they were going, or they hit the gas as I did it, and it pulled me off balance. So, I hit the ground on my feet, but couldn't hold myself up and took a fall into the asphault. They didn't even notice though, and went home without stopping. They came over later to see the damage, and still feel really bad about it. My palms are a little torn up, and my left knee, and a little scrap above my elbow are all I got. I'll send pictures next week of my bloody mess. The good news is that my shirt and pants are fine!
I'm healing up really well (and yes, I am using triple antibiotic ointment) but a little sore. We went to see our ward missionary (who is the RM who just got back) off at the airport this morning. He is headed to California for the rest of the summer, and then to Snow College. His name is Michael Straight (maybe Aaron or Collin Jensen will run into him). It has been a lot of fun working with him, so we wished him luck.
Now for the words of wisdom: Don't play leapfrog with a unicorn. Oh wait...
Maybe I can tag along with I think it was Elder Oaks, who gave a talk about testimony. A testimony is not a travelogue, a thankimony, or a stand up comic routeen. It is a statement of truth that bears witness of Christ and His restored gospel. Stories can teach us things, but a testimony is a witness of Christ. May we all strive to bear a true testimony so that it can allow the spirit to touch the hearts of all those who hear us.
I love you all, and I will be calling home probably about 5 AM here, so 9 AM there next Sunday morning for mother's day. I can't wait to talk to everyone. Thank you all for all the support and love you give and have given me. I love you all.
Elder Kidd
Kiah huh? I hope she enjoys the movie Willow. It scared me to death when I was a kid... But it is a very pretty name. I couldn't open the pictures that Stacie sent though. I did get the ones mom sent.
Anyway, Aloha! It has been a fun week in Hilo, and a very warm one as well. We are starting to get out of the rain a little bit, and get some sunshine. I am starting to remember last year when I first got out here though. It was hot, and I think I prefer the rain.
Hmmm... so what happened this last week... On Tuesday we were able to go and see Carey O'oka again and have a lesson with him. He is doing well, just struggling to get his heart in the right place. He wants to be baptized, and he wants to know it is true, he's just looking for that confirmation right now. So, always a fun time. He can't meet tomorrow, but we should see him on Sunday.
We also had fun doing service on Tuesday as well. And when I say fun, I mean we spent the whole time wondering what in the heck we were doing it for. The lady is a little crazy, and simply likes free labor to try to get the land cleared she is trying to sell... Yeah, so we have been told by numberous people to cease going over there, and we are following that advice. I feel really sorry for her and her husband, but I think she is crazy too, and we don't have time to help her earn a profit off of a bad financial decision.
Oh, by the way, dakine is a word used in Hawaii to mean just about anything, so "small kine" would be small things. "Choke" means a lot. Thought I would try and throw some pigeon in for everyone. Try looking up "Da Jesus Book" to get a copy of the pigeon bible.
Also, I said my district leader is interesting because he is driving me crazy. He is the type of person who doesn't ask, he just does. Throw in that he enjoys pinning things on everyone else, slipping out of doing things, and acts like roalty, he's getting on my nerves. So, a perfect opportunity to learn patience has arrived.
Tuesday night we were able to see Tara, and take a recent convert with us (Helen). We had a good lesson about tithing and fast offerings, and Tara told us that she is working on getting Sundays off (still) and is sincerely searching for answers about what is true. She likes what we teach, but knows she needs that witness. So, add her to Carey O'oka, and Ikaika (Ikaika wants to get baptized, knows it's true, but can't afford to move out of his girlfriends apartment) and we have a lot of solid investigators who are just having those tests of faith at the moment. Slightly frustrating as a missionary, but you do your best, pray for them, and pray for inspiration as to how to help them.
Wednesday we were able to see Kathy and Pearleen and had a good discussion with them. My companion and myself are both wondering if they are crazy or not, but we are still trying to help them. They are very in touch with the "Energy" side of things, so we are trying to help them see that even "energy" comes from Heavenly Father. They weren't at church yesterday though, and we haven't been able to get ahold of them. We'll let you know what happens.
Thursday we had an interesting evening. We taught a good lesson to a less active young man in our ward (who really wants to come to church, but work makes it difficult) and his girlfriend (who is a recent convert and less active with him... two birds, one stone?). The lesson was great, but they live across the street from a couple that is very active, very kind, and a little senile. Well, as we were leaving to go to our dinner appointment, the husband waved us over. When we got there, he handed us each a sandwhich and some veggie chips (they were actually really good), a glass of milk, and some garlic bagle bites. Well, missionaries never turn down food, so we ate it. Well, the conversation starts, "Do you have a dinner tonight?", "Yep", "At what time? 6?", "Yep, at six.", "Oh, you're late. Eat up.". I love brother Auld. So, my companion and I weren't very hungry for our dinner at the New Star Chineese resturant.
The food wasn't terrific though, so I don't know if we minded. I prefered the tomatoe and bacon sandwhich the Aulds gave us. The sad part was that while we were eating, the song "I'm Going Home" by Dautry (spelling even close?) came on. Well, yeah, thats too funny and would make anyone atleast a little homesick. But we laughed about it too (as we sang it to ourselves).
Thursday morning we went to Sister Hess (a less active we are working with) just in time. We came in and she burst into tears because it seemed everything was mounting up on her. Well, that's really not good for someone who has had atleast one heart attack, and possibly two. So, we watched the Restoration with her, calmed her down, swept her floors, and cheered her up. She felt a lot better when we left, and made it to church.
That afternoon we went to see Gail (the buddist lady). While we were there, three of her buddist friends showed up. Well, this wasn't a good finding activity, and most missionaries will agree that friends showing up seems to distract from the lesson. It doesn't help that when they come in they each had to chant and bow to a little shrine thing in the room. Hopefully they were listening while I was bearing testimony of Christ, but it didn't seem that way. They didn't seem to hear anything we said at all, but no effort is wasted, right?
Anyway, Saturday night we went to a reception held at the stake center. If you think you have seen big receptions, you haven't seen anything. There were well over 1,000 people that attended. They had great food though, and a samoan slap dance at the end. That was fun. (You should look up on youtube and see if you can find one. They are really cool.)
Well, as we walked back to our pad, I had to back our Zone Leaders out (stand behind the car and make sure no one was coming). Well, as they were driving away, I thought I would be funny, so I was going to jump and push off their trunk a little to get higher... Yeah, stupid. Well, I either misjudged how fast they were going, or they hit the gas as I did it, and it pulled me off balance. So, I hit the ground on my feet, but couldn't hold myself up and took a fall into the asphault. They didn't even notice though, and went home without stopping. They came over later to see the damage, and still feel really bad about it. My palms are a little torn up, and my left knee, and a little scrap above my elbow are all I got. I'll send pictures next week of my bloody mess. The good news is that my shirt and pants are fine!
I'm healing up really well (and yes, I am using triple antibiotic ointment) but a little sore. We went to see our ward missionary (who is the RM who just got back) off at the airport this morning. He is headed to California for the rest of the summer, and then to Snow College. His name is Michael Straight (maybe Aaron or Collin Jensen will run into him). It has been a lot of fun working with him, so we wished him luck.
Now for the words of wisdom: Don't play leapfrog with a unicorn. Oh wait...
Maybe I can tag along with I think it was Elder Oaks, who gave a talk about testimony. A testimony is not a travelogue, a thankimony, or a stand up comic routeen. It is a statement of truth that bears witness of Christ and His restored gospel. Stories can teach us things, but a testimony is a witness of Christ. May we all strive to bear a true testimony so that it can allow the spirit to touch the hearts of all those who hear us.
I love you all, and I will be calling home probably about 5 AM here, so 9 AM there next Sunday morning for mother's day. I can't wait to talk to everyone. Thank you all for all the support and love you give and have given me. I love you all.
Elder Kidd
04/27/09
Aloha Actually
Thought I would try something a little bit different.
So, it has been an interesting week here in Hilo. I have a new companion, my old companion is up the road about an hour and a half in Waimea, and my new district leader is.... interesting. I'll let you know how that one turns out.
My new companion is Elder Thomson, from Twin Falls. He has been out the same amount of time as Elder Aldridge has (and Elder Bagley and Elder Higley). I'm wondering if I am going to be companions with everyone in their generation (or group from the MTC) through the rest of my mission. I know everyone's name at this point. I hope not though. Elder Thomson and I are getting along and I am looking forward to this transfer.
We had some struggles this week getting in contact with our investigators, so not a whole lot new has happened. We were able to teach the gentleman who wants to be baptized, and he is progressing. He wants his son to baptise him, but knows that he needs to do some things prior. Apparently he has been investigating the church for the last 20 years.... So yeah, we've got to figure out how to help him get a secure testimony and quit smoking first, all small kine.
We are starting to meet with choke people from our wards though. I realized that I didn't know the members out here very well, so I am going to fall back on what I did over on Kaua'i a little bit: visit the members, get to know them, let them know you, show them you care, and then remind them about missionary work. Seemed to work out there, and I think we need a bit of that here. The members seem to have forgotten who the missionaries are. But, our slow ward (one with not a lot going on) is starting to see a little bit of movement.
One interesting note: the bishop of the slower ward (Kaumana) has a son that is serving in the Tempe Arizona mission, where Felipe is.
So, I just realized that mother's day is coming up rapidly. Weird, I'm gonig to be able to call home again. It seems like just yesterday that I was calling on Christmas. I don't remember when church is, so we may have to work around that. I am thinking I can call early (about 8:30 there) or maybe later in the evening (around 6:30-7:30). Just let me know what would work best so we can coordinate our calling. We have cell phones, so we will just be calling from those since it has free minutes on weekends.
So, to clarify, S-lyn is really the girls name. It is pronounced 'S' (as in the letter S) and then lynn (as in uncle lynn). They are chuukese, so it was interesting. I was so scared I was going to mess up the name. One other bit of good news, the three girls that I helped teach in Kaua'i got baptized the Saturday after S-Lyn. Hopefully Elder Bagley will send me pictures like he said he would.
Weather here has been fun. It actually rained almost non-stop all of Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. We got a bit of a break on Saturday, and a little today. Hopefully it will stay because we are going to play ultimate frisbee this afternoon.
I hope everyone is doing well. Keep up the faith, remember to smile, and remember that Christ was completely alone so that we never have to be if we will do what is right (I think Elder Holland has become my new favorite Apostle. He's awesome).
As we say in Hawaii: We are grateful to be in the Hawaii, Honolulu mission, the Aloha mission.
The (A)tonement of Jesus Christ is our message
(L)ove of God and others is our motivation, and
(O)bedience to the commandments and mission rules is our strength. By sharing the gospel with others, we can give them the
(HA), the breath of life, even eternal life. ALOHA!
I love you all!
Elder Kidd
Thought I would try something a little bit different.
So, it has been an interesting week here in Hilo. I have a new companion, my old companion is up the road about an hour and a half in Waimea, and my new district leader is.... interesting. I'll let you know how that one turns out.
My new companion is Elder Thomson, from Twin Falls. He has been out the same amount of time as Elder Aldridge has (and Elder Bagley and Elder Higley). I'm wondering if I am going to be companions with everyone in their generation (or group from the MTC) through the rest of my mission. I know everyone's name at this point. I hope not though. Elder Thomson and I are getting along and I am looking forward to this transfer.
We had some struggles this week getting in contact with our investigators, so not a whole lot new has happened. We were able to teach the gentleman who wants to be baptized, and he is progressing. He wants his son to baptise him, but knows that he needs to do some things prior. Apparently he has been investigating the church for the last 20 years.... So yeah, we've got to figure out how to help him get a secure testimony and quit smoking first, all small kine.
We are starting to meet with choke people from our wards though. I realized that I didn't know the members out here very well, so I am going to fall back on what I did over on Kaua'i a little bit: visit the members, get to know them, let them know you, show them you care, and then remind them about missionary work. Seemed to work out there, and I think we need a bit of that here. The members seem to have forgotten who the missionaries are. But, our slow ward (one with not a lot going on) is starting to see a little bit of movement.
One interesting note: the bishop of the slower ward (Kaumana) has a son that is serving in the Tempe Arizona mission, where Felipe is.
So, I just realized that mother's day is coming up rapidly. Weird, I'm gonig to be able to call home again. It seems like just yesterday that I was calling on Christmas. I don't remember when church is, so we may have to work around that. I am thinking I can call early (about 8:30 there) or maybe later in the evening (around 6:30-7:30). Just let me know what would work best so we can coordinate our calling. We have cell phones, so we will just be calling from those since it has free minutes on weekends.
So, to clarify, S-lyn is really the girls name. It is pronounced 'S' (as in the letter S) and then lynn (as in uncle lynn). They are chuukese, so it was interesting. I was so scared I was going to mess up the name. One other bit of good news, the three girls that I helped teach in Kaua'i got baptized the Saturday after S-Lyn. Hopefully Elder Bagley will send me pictures like he said he would.
Weather here has been fun. It actually rained almost non-stop all of Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. We got a bit of a break on Saturday, and a little today. Hopefully it will stay because we are going to play ultimate frisbee this afternoon.
I hope everyone is doing well. Keep up the faith, remember to smile, and remember that Christ was completely alone so that we never have to be if we will do what is right (I think Elder Holland has become my new favorite Apostle. He's awesome).
As we say in Hawaii: We are grateful to be in the Hawaii, Honolulu mission, the Aloha mission.
The (A)tonement of Jesus Christ is our message
(L)ove of God and others is our motivation, and
(O)bedience to the commandments and mission rules is our strength. By sharing the gospel with others, we can give them the
(HA), the breath of life, even eternal life. ALOHA!
I love you all!
Elder Kidd
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