Missionary Memoirs: Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Greetings from the Great OCM!!!

Another transfer awaits. We have not received transfer calls yet, and I will try and shoot another email letting you know the results. Elder DuBose and I feel as if something will change in our companionship but not really any ideas as to what. The calls should come in the early afternoon so we shall see. One thing is certain, this area is something that will be hard to leave whether now, or whenever I get transferred. I think since being here I have learned what truly makes people happy. These Amish families who gave their all, who have nothing but the gospel, are happier than anyone else I have ever seen.

Lightning bugs everywhere! Last year did not even compare since I was in the city, but out here it is crazy. It looks as if the woods and fields are exploding! That is one of the big perks about Ohio. Hopefully I can get some pictures.

Tons of rain in the last few days. The rivers are flooding. Fields have been swamped, basements are flooded, and overall I have never seen so much rain in my life. The Hot Humid weather has brought numerous thunderstorms with a great deal of rain. The rest of this week I hear is supposed to be wet as well. We may be doing a lot of service.

So, the recent convert that we baptized here in Danville is such a big help. I have found a true friend in Sean. We have deep heart felt conversations and he is always concerned for our welfare. He has been driving us to all of our meetings, and activities for the last 2 transfers, saving us tons of miles. He feeds us often, and he is constantly serving the members of the Danville Group. We told him he needs to stop or he is going to be broke and he told us "If I die with a dime in my pocket, I will be disappointed." I have never met a more intelligent person, or a more service oriented one. Without a doubt Sean is a kingdom builder, and a true friend, someone who I will definitely call and ask for advice after the mission. He oftentimes struggles with his testimony, but he tells us "I can't explain why I keep coming back, but the fact of the matter is I will be here until they kick me out." That is what the spirit does to people, it creates a desire that takes presidence over anything else. The church is true.

The more people give the happier they will be, those that give their all will receive all, those that give a part will receive a part. Sacrifice brings forth the blessings of heaven. Have we given our all to our Heavenly Father and his kingdom? In the words of Zenos in his Allegory of the Olive Tree, we should ask ourselves "What more can I do for my vineyard?"

I came across a poem that really hit home to me. It is called the Unsung Hero:

If I could choose a phrase, to remain long after I am gone

A summary of my past endeavors, a phrase becoming me

If I were to choose such a phrase, then it would surely be

The Unsung Hero, the unknown man who gave his very all

The one who sacrificed his might and heart for others

The one who heeded the call

And through my life there never was any need for merit

Never once doing something for what others would see

But out of the Charity of Heart. I resolved others needs

And should you read this poem, and wonder who's it be

The Unsung Hero I will remain, that my friend is me.