Do you know, something I love about our Heavenly Father is the
opportunities he gives us to learn and grow. He's given me the chance
to learn about effective planning. He's taught me about budgeting.
He's teaching me, every moment, how to be a faithful daughter in His
Kingdom.
So now I urge all who read these words to ask yourselves: What is the
Father trying to teach you at this moment? What can you learn from
your situation? How can this better yourself?
Our Relief Society lesson was from the talk "The Lord Has Not
Forgotten You". We talked about the trials that make us feel like
we're forgotten by the Lord, and it helped me to feel a little
better--not that I've ever felt forgotten!
The Zone goal for contacts is 70/week, which means 10/day. My comp and I decided one day to really spearhead that goal, and we spend almost the whole day contacting--getting 38 people to hear about the Gospel! We felt mighty happy with ourselves
that day!
**
Well, my family and friends, all I can do now is leave you with a scripture:
D&C 39:24
Sister Adams
Monday, May 6, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
...and if it be bad, the spirit will cause you to forget the thing
(or something like that)
Which means that whatever title I wanted to give this week was not inspired, otherwise I would have remembered.
On Saturday, as us missionaries were waiting for General Conference to begin, we began to share humorous scriptures among ourselves, of which I will only share a few:
1 Nephi 11:10,15--the desire of a leaving Elder
Jeremiah 4:19-20--hey, pepto bismal?
3 Nephi 3:7--the mistaken reading assignment; guess who didn't get baptized?
As you can see, missionaries have the ability to find humor in all things. I mean, how many times in the scriptures does it say "be of good cheer"? We are simply following God's commandments!
But I will say this, that GenCon was amazing! I was impressed with how many talks about family and obedience there were; it seemed all of them were either on one or the other. I certainly found a few things that I hope will help me in the near and far future.
I will start by answering your three questions. What language do they speak in Kitwe? 1/ here they speak Bemba, which is similar to Chichewa, but not. For example, here the word ayi means right, whereas in Lilongwe ayi means no. What is your apartment like? 2/ Our flat is actually really nice. We've got the bigger room, and it even has a bathroom attached and its own a/c unit! Are you close to the H's? (the senior couple in Kitwe) 3/ As for the H's, we're right next door, which is really nice if we need something from them.
**
Well, my friends, at this point I am curious. Have you come across anything amusing whilst perusing the scriptures? If so, I would love to hear about it!
But seriously, studying the scriptures can really enlighten your mind and enhance your soul. Don't skip it for anything, or else you'll feel a loss of what to do when focus really matters!
Sister Adams
Which means that whatever title I wanted to give this week was not inspired, otherwise I would have remembered.
On Saturday, as us missionaries were waiting for General Conference to begin, we began to share humorous scriptures among ourselves, of which I will only share a few:
1 Nephi 11:10,15--the desire of a leaving Elder
Jeremiah 4:19-20--hey, pepto bismal?
3 Nephi 3:7--the mistaken reading assignment; guess who didn't get baptized?
As you can see, missionaries have the ability to find humor in all things. I mean, how many times in the scriptures does it say "be of good cheer"? We are simply following God's commandments!
But I will say this, that GenCon was amazing! I was impressed with how many talks about family and obedience there were; it seemed all of them were either on one or the other. I certainly found a few things that I hope will help me in the near and far future.
I will start by answering your three questions. What language do they speak in Kitwe? 1/ here they speak Bemba, which is similar to Chichewa, but not. For example, here the word ayi means right, whereas in Lilongwe ayi means no. What is your apartment like? 2/ Our flat is actually really nice. We've got the bigger room, and it even has a bathroom attached and its own a/c unit! Are you close to the H's? (the senior couple in Kitwe) 3/ As for the H's, we're right next door, which is really nice if we need something from them.
**
Well, my friends, at this point I am curious. Have you come across anything amusing whilst perusing the scriptures? If so, I would love to hear about it!
But seriously, studying the scriptures can really enlighten your mind and enhance your soul. Don't skip it for anything, or else you'll feel a loss of what to do when focus really matters!
Sister Adams
Monday, April 22, 2013
Up in the 'Belt
Greetings from the Copperbelt of Zambia!
This place is so much different than Lilongwe. First of all, I have not yet been in a house that is lacking a television set, or even electricity for that matter. But with money comes pride, and we've been told it's the biggest issue that we'll face here.
For the most part, Sister J and I have just been driving our little corolla around trying to get the feel of the place, and mostly we've been to visit the less-active members. But we're making progress, and we are gradually getting on our feet!
Sister J, my new companion, is fresh from Uganda, and she's a very sweet girl! She is so eager to learn, and to try out the best parts of the work for herself. She's pretty much ready to start swimming on her own, I just need to point her in the right direction.
The bus ride to Zambia took fifteen. flipping. hours. And you know how I get on long road trips. At one point I was just leaning against the window wanting to be anywhere but where I was. But then one of the elders distracted me by talking about action movies.
There were no chickens on the chicken bus, but there was a lot of Afro-Gospel and boy band music. Have you ever heard of the band West Life? Well neither had I before then, but now I think I may have all their songs memorized...
This morning I forgot that the H's have a washing machine, and I did all my whites by hand. And now I have these painful sores on three of my fingers that are actually making it hard to type. But hey, the point is that we learn from our trials, right?
One thing that I'm a little down about is the fact that I'm not driving a truck here. And there's a ton of speed bumps all over the place! I have to almost stop so that our little corolla doesn't hit the bump when I go over... One thing is for sure: it's a nice car, but I don't want one of my own.
**
If there is one thing I'm learning up here, it's that persistence is key. "Just do your best and God does the rest".
Sister Adams
This place is so much different than Lilongwe. First of all, I have not yet been in a house that is lacking a television set, or even electricity for that matter. But with money comes pride, and we've been told it's the biggest issue that we'll face here.
For the most part, Sister J and I have just been driving our little corolla around trying to get the feel of the place, and mostly we've been to visit the less-active members. But we're making progress, and we are gradually getting on our feet!
Sister J, my new companion, is fresh from Uganda, and she's a very sweet girl! She is so eager to learn, and to try out the best parts of the work for herself. She's pretty much ready to start swimming on her own, I just need to point her in the right direction.
The bus ride to Zambia took fifteen. flipping. hours. And you know how I get on long road trips. At one point I was just leaning against the window wanting to be anywhere but where I was. But then one of the elders distracted me by talking about action movies.
There were no chickens on the chicken bus, but there was a lot of Afro-Gospel and boy band music. Have you ever heard of the band West Life? Well neither had I before then, but now I think I may have all their songs memorized...
This morning I forgot that the H's have a washing machine, and I did all my whites by hand. And now I have these painful sores on three of my fingers that are actually making it hard to type. But hey, the point is that we learn from our trials, right?
One thing that I'm a little down about is the fact that I'm not driving a truck here. And there's a ton of speed bumps all over the place! I have to almost stop so that our little corolla doesn't hit the bump when I go over... One thing is for sure: it's a nice car, but I don't want one of my own.
**
If there is one thing I'm learning up here, it's that persistence is key. "Just do your best and God does the rest".
Sister Adams
Monday, April 15, 2013
Leaving Lilongwe
Parting is such sweet sorrow.
On Sunday I was asked to talk in both branches, and I shared about the story of the ten virgins. In preparation for the talk, I read about the parable in James E Talmage's Jesus the Christ. If you can, I urge you all to do the same. His explanation is simply beautiful, and it helped me to really break it down in simple terms for those wonderful people. There's something about telling stories that really helps people to know more about the Gospel. Perhaps the Savior was onto something.
On Thursday, F and I had a funny experience as we walked through Kauma. We saw one of the Elders' investigators and walked up to say hello. Now, she'd been coming to our English class, so I said to her:
"Amayi, how are you?"
To which she promptly replied:
"My name is Berthi (pronounced Bert)."
F and I were in stitches afterward, and as a bit of an inside joke, we'll randomly say 'my name is berthi!' I think I can safely say that I hope Sister A, my new companion, will have kwambiri amounts of yellow (look up 'the color code' to understand).
I don't know if you watched it, but on the internet broadcast of General Conference there was this thing called The World Report, and Elder Holland talked about some people I think in a French speaking part of Africa (can't remember the name, much less how it's spelled--but I know it's french because the name was spelled weird and french-like). He said if you ever want a lesson on how to truly be happy, go to Africa. He talked about how the people don't have much in the way of the world, but they are happy here. And it's true. Every day I'll be walking through the village where parents maybe can't even give their children shoes, but the kids are always laughing and smiling and playing. And I've realized that that is how they know to be happy. They don't need expensive toys or video games, they just live. It's a lesson I plan on teaching my kids when they are old enough to understand.
I started packing this morning, just because I didn't actually want to move all my things. You know when you have a jar of dirt and water and you shake it up and then just let it sit there? Well, packing would be for me like shaking up that jar again. And I wanted to put it off for as long as I could. But when I woke up this morning I sighed and realized that I couldn't really put it off any longer. I was amazed that all my stuff could still fit (almost all of it, because that package you sent me back in November won't fit in any of the boxes... wonder how I'll pull that off in the chicken bus...).
**
The hymn for the week is #124. This is a brilliant hymn, with a calming melody along with calming words. It really helps me go through troubles, and I know it can do the same for you. I leave you those things in the name of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sister Adams
On Sunday I was asked to talk in both branches, and I shared about the story of the ten virgins. In preparation for the talk, I read about the parable in James E Talmage's Jesus the Christ. If you can, I urge you all to do the same. His explanation is simply beautiful, and it helped me to really break it down in simple terms for those wonderful people. There's something about telling stories that really helps people to know more about the Gospel. Perhaps the Savior was onto something.
On Thursday, F and I had a funny experience as we walked through Kauma. We saw one of the Elders' investigators and walked up to say hello. Now, she'd been coming to our English class, so I said to her:
"Amayi, how are you?"
To which she promptly replied:
"My name is Berthi (pronounced Bert)."
F and I were in stitches afterward, and as a bit of an inside joke, we'll randomly say 'my name is berthi!' I think I can safely say that I hope Sister A, my new companion, will have kwambiri amounts of yellow (look up 'the color code' to understand).
I don't know if you watched it, but on the internet broadcast of General Conference there was this thing called The World Report, and Elder Holland talked about some people I think in a French speaking part of Africa (can't remember the name, much less how it's spelled--but I know it's french because the name was spelled weird and french-like). He said if you ever want a lesson on how to truly be happy, go to Africa. He talked about how the people don't have much in the way of the world, but they are happy here. And it's true. Every day I'll be walking through the village where parents maybe can't even give their children shoes, but the kids are always laughing and smiling and playing. And I've realized that that is how they know to be happy. They don't need expensive toys or video games, they just live. It's a lesson I plan on teaching my kids when they are old enough to understand.
I started packing this morning, just because I didn't actually want to move all my things. You know when you have a jar of dirt and water and you shake it up and then just let it sit there? Well, packing would be for me like shaking up that jar again. And I wanted to put it off for as long as I could. But when I woke up this morning I sighed and realized that I couldn't really put it off any longer. I was amazed that all my stuff could still fit (almost all of it, because that package you sent me back in November won't fit in any of the boxes... wonder how I'll pull that off in the chicken bus...).
**
The hymn for the week is #124. This is a brilliant hymn, with a calming melody along with calming words. It really helps me go through troubles, and I know it can do the same for you. I leave you those things in the name of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sister Adams
Monday, April 8, 2013
A Bit About Conference
Because of a wonderful thing called internet, us missionaries were able to watch the Saturday and Sunday morning sessions of General Conference live! On Saturday, I was kicking myself because I didn't have anything to take notes with, but Sunday I made sure I brought my journal with me. There were a few things that I really loved that I think will help me improve as a missionary and as a daughter in Zion (personal revelations are personal). But the one thing that I would like to share was from Saturday morning:
What e'er thou art, act well thy part.
That phrase really got me thinking, and it reminds me of another phrase that President Padovich gave to us once: Either you should be 100% right or 100% wrong; be committed!
So now with those two phrases in mind, I feel I can really go forward knowing a bit more of how to be a missionary (yup, I'm still learning!). With my pending transfer to Zambia next week, and the arrival of the new baby sharks, I'm feeling a tad bit more prepared.
I'm using a mosquito net, and it's been tied up with a bit of... well, it looks like a bit of flimsy ace bandage. I'm not sure what it is, but it's not string. In other news, the net has worked wonders for me at night, but it does nothing for me while I'm in the area where most of the mosquitoes are. I woke up Tuesday morning dying of malaria (the medicine they gave me to prevent it makes me sick, so I haven't taken it since November almost...). And just in case you're curious, malaria = three days in the compound going mad. I wasn't so sick mid-way through day 2, but I still didn't have the energy to do much else besides move like a snail around the house. I slept most of Thursday, just because I didn't want to look at the walls that I'd memorized.
Actually, this week has been full of sick missionaries. On Tuesday, only two companionships went out and worked (out of six) and everyone else stayed home to die of malaria together. It's not fun, by the way. I was confused about whether I wanted to curl up on the bathroom floor, under a billion blankets, or even out on the grass. But the trick was I didn't want to move at all because I was aching all over. I'm not going to ask that you try for yourself because it's that bad. But they say you haven't experienced an African mission until you've had malaria.
A lot of Malawians get excited when they see an azungu, and I guess the mosquitoes are the same.
**
Well, the week ahead promises to be one full of adventure as this sister missionary goes paired with a local. Then I'm off to Zambia the Great!
I know this Church is true. I know Joseph Smith truly was the man called of God to restore His wonderful Gospel. I know that our Heavenly Father loves us, and is very aware of the little things in our lives. In parting, I would like to share a story that demonstrates His love.
Saturday afternoon, I was using my favorite pen during the English Class as a pointer. After the class, I had put it in my ponytail because I didn't feel like putting it in my bag. Then, while I was playing with one of the children who'd come, she stole the pen right out of my hair and began running around the primary room with it. I finally caught her and recaptured my pen. But I don't remember where I put the thing. I know for certain, though, that I did not put it in my bag. Needless to say, when I got home and discovered the pen missing I was very sad.
Fast forward to Sunday afternoon. I was digging in my bag for my planner, when I saw something shiny at the bottom. Reaching down, I found my favorite pen! I have no idea how it got there, and the pen could have easily been replaced, but to me it stands as a testimony of our Heavenly Father's love.
I love you all,
Sister Adams
What e'er thou art, act well thy part.
That phrase really got me thinking, and it reminds me of another phrase that President Padovich gave to us once: Either you should be 100% right or 100% wrong; be committed!
So now with those two phrases in mind, I feel I can really go forward knowing a bit more of how to be a missionary (yup, I'm still learning!). With my pending transfer to Zambia next week, and the arrival of the new baby sharks, I'm feeling a tad bit more prepared.
I'm using a mosquito net, and it's been tied up with a bit of... well, it looks like a bit of flimsy ace bandage. I'm not sure what it is, but it's not string. In other news, the net has worked wonders for me at night, but it does nothing for me while I'm in the area where most of the mosquitoes are. I woke up Tuesday morning dying of malaria (the medicine they gave me to prevent it makes me sick, so I haven't taken it since November almost...). And just in case you're curious, malaria = three days in the compound going mad. I wasn't so sick mid-way through day 2, but I still didn't have the energy to do much else besides move like a snail around the house. I slept most of Thursday, just because I didn't want to look at the walls that I'd memorized.
Actually, this week has been full of sick missionaries. On Tuesday, only two companionships went out and worked (out of six) and everyone else stayed home to die of malaria together. It's not fun, by the way. I was confused about whether I wanted to curl up on the bathroom floor, under a billion blankets, or even out on the grass. But the trick was I didn't want to move at all because I was aching all over. I'm not going to ask that you try for yourself because it's that bad. But they say you haven't experienced an African mission until you've had malaria.
A lot of Malawians get excited when they see an azungu, and I guess the mosquitoes are the same.
**
Well, the week ahead promises to be one full of adventure as this sister missionary goes paired with a local. Then I'm off to Zambia the Great!
I know this Church is true. I know Joseph Smith truly was the man called of God to restore His wonderful Gospel. I know that our Heavenly Father loves us, and is very aware of the little things in our lives. In parting, I would like to share a story that demonstrates His love.
Saturday afternoon, I was using my favorite pen during the English Class as a pointer. After the class, I had put it in my ponytail because I didn't feel like putting it in my bag. Then, while I was playing with one of the children who'd come, she stole the pen right out of my hair and began running around the primary room with it. I finally caught her and recaptured my pen. But I don't remember where I put the thing. I know for certain, though, that I did not put it in my bag. Needless to say, when I got home and discovered the pen missing I was very sad.
Fast forward to Sunday afternoon. I was digging in my bag for my planner, when I saw something shiny at the bottom. Reaching down, I found my favorite pen! I have no idea how it got there, and the pen could have easily been replaced, but to me it stands as a testimony of our Heavenly Father's love.
I love you all,
Sister Adams
Monday, April 1, 2013
And The Verdict Is....
I AM GOING TO THE COPPER BELT IN ZAMBIA. I WILL BE TRAINING A NEW MISSIONARY.
We're getting a whole batch of new baby sharks on the 16th, and I'm going to Lusaka to pick up Sister A (from Uganda) and take her on a chicken bus up to Kitwe. The magic question of the week is: How do you feel about training? I have no idea. Next question: How do you feel about a baby shark being your second companion? Again, I have no idea. All I know is that brother so and so has my journal and I need A B C D E and F to sign as well before the time runs out.
I am really going to miss these wonderful people! I didn't really realize how much I'd grown to love all these wonderful brothers and sisters until President P told me that I would be leaving them. Of course, I'm excited and looking forward to a change in scenery, but still... I've really grown to love Malawi. The people here are simple, and they don't need much to survive. If only the rest of the world could learn the same things...
We had a really powerful weekend. On Saturday, we got to have lunch with a family that is currently on their way to being an eternal family! Three families, in fact, are going to Joberg this week to go through the temple! Then on Sunday, when we told the B's and taught them about the principle, they looked more than excited because they realized it was more than possible!
Also, Saturday we had some powerful baptisms--my last in Malawi. Two sisters in Branch two who had been looking forward to it for forever, Sister L as well got baptized by her husband (powerful thing to watch) and even the star of the day: E! This was a man who'd been a drunkard for 26 years, and he's finally sobered up and is living the gospel. He's one of the most powerful members now, and the day he was confirmed he came out and worked with my companion and me. The best thing about him is that he doesn't just translate; he adds his own testimony to the end of whatever we say!
**
In closing, I would like to direct your thoughts to this wonderful holiday (for which so many shopping centers inconveniently closed). Whenever we think about Easter Weekend, most people here in Malawi focus on the fact that Christ died for us. Not many remember that he also rose again the third day. He lives, and because He lives we will all rise from the resting places. This I testify to you, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sister Adams
We're getting a whole batch of new baby sharks on the 16th, and I'm going to Lusaka to pick up Sister A (from Uganda) and take her on a chicken bus up to Kitwe. The magic question of the week is: How do you feel about training? I have no idea. Next question: How do you feel about a baby shark being your second companion? Again, I have no idea. All I know is that brother so and so has my journal and I need A B C D E and F to sign as well before the time runs out.
I am really going to miss these wonderful people! I didn't really realize how much I'd grown to love all these wonderful brothers and sisters until President P told me that I would be leaving them. Of course, I'm excited and looking forward to a change in scenery, but still... I've really grown to love Malawi. The people here are simple, and they don't need much to survive. If only the rest of the world could learn the same things...
We had a really powerful weekend. On Saturday, we got to have lunch with a family that is currently on their way to being an eternal family! Three families, in fact, are going to Joberg this week to go through the temple! Then on Sunday, when we told the B's and taught them about the principle, they looked more than excited because they realized it was more than possible!
Also, Saturday we had some powerful baptisms--my last in Malawi. Two sisters in Branch two who had been looking forward to it for forever, Sister L as well got baptized by her husband (powerful thing to watch) and even the star of the day: E! This was a man who'd been a drunkard for 26 years, and he's finally sobered up and is living the gospel. He's one of the most powerful members now, and the day he was confirmed he came out and worked with my companion and me. The best thing about him is that he doesn't just translate; he adds his own testimony to the end of whatever we say!
**
In closing, I would like to direct your thoughts to this wonderful holiday (for which so many shopping centers inconveniently closed). Whenever we think about Easter Weekend, most people here in Malawi focus on the fact that Christ died for us. Not many remember that he also rose again the third day. He lives, and because He lives we will all rise from the resting places. This I testify to you, in the sacred name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sister Adams
Monday, March 25, 2013
Let Your Light So Shine
Do you know, after 6 1/2 months on mission, I think I'm finally starting to understand why I'm here. There are certain events that I've been through that, had I made a different decision, I would not be where I am. But the things I'm learning and the things I'm doing are helping me to see that I'm here in Malawi for my own good and my own salvation. Yes, I'm here to help others come unto Christ, but they're doing the same thing in the spirit world free of all costs.
There's a question that I'm asking myself every day: What can I learn today to become a more faithful daughter in Zion? What can I learn that will help me in life, and in eternity? I have a great feeling that those two questions will really help me to become the best missionary that I can be.
Zone Conference is coming up on Friday, and with it we'll get transfer news (I'll learn who my new companion will be, since Sister N is leaving Malawi on the 4th and the whole mission on the 9th) even though we're only in week two of the transfer. But President doesn't really go by the numbers in the planner; he just follows the Spirit, who is the best Guide of all!
I'm a bit anxious to find out who my new companion is, seeing as I've only had the one since I've gotten here. But it's okay, because then I'll be able to learn new things from whichever Sister is assigned to me!
Love you lots!
**
In other news, my friends and family, the sun has turned this beloved brunette sister into half-ginger.
Boundless love from the local Azungu Malawian,
Sister Adams
There's a question that I'm asking myself every day: What can I learn today to become a more faithful daughter in Zion? What can I learn that will help me in life, and in eternity? I have a great feeling that those two questions will really help me to become the best missionary that I can be.
Zone Conference is coming up on Friday, and with it we'll get transfer news (I'll learn who my new companion will be, since Sister N is leaving Malawi on the 4th and the whole mission on the 9th) even though we're only in week two of the transfer. But President doesn't really go by the numbers in the planner; he just follows the Spirit, who is the best Guide of all!
I'm a bit anxious to find out who my new companion is, seeing as I've only had the one since I've gotten here. But it's okay, because then I'll be able to learn new things from whichever Sister is assigned to me!
Love you lots!
**
In other news, my friends and family, the sun has turned this beloved brunette sister into half-ginger.
Boundless love from the local Azungu Malawian,
Sister Adams
Monday, March 18, 2013
The Spider and the Cockroach
There once was a little spider named Opile. He was full of dreams, even though most bugs in the village were bigger than him. His Amayi even told him, "Opile, you must just remember that God is bigger than all those bugs." And Opile believed her.
One day, Opile was near his home when Mkuku, the biggest cockroach in the village came and started shouting at the little spider. "You're such a pangono bug!" he shouted. "How can you bring pride to your banja?"
Opile didn't like the shouting, and besides that he knew what Mkuku was saying wasn't true. His Amayi told him every day that she was proud of how quick and clever he was. That gave Opile an idea. Mkuku was big, yes, but he was also slow. Opile was quick and clever, and he could also spin some of the strongest webs in his family.
So, quick as a flash, Opile skittered around Mkuku, wrapping two of his legs in his web and pulling the big cockroach on his back. Opile then pulled his web up between two walls, and made certain that his web would hold. Mkuku, suddenly realizing that he was at a disadvantage, started pleading with Opile to let him go.
"No," Opile said. "I'm leaving you here to be supper for my Amayi and Abambo."
______
This is just a little story I made up after seeing this very ordeal this morning at the flat. And you know, the spider looked very pleased with himself to have caught such a big meal. Probably he thought he wouldn't be able to do it. Maybe he felt scared in the face of such a big opponent.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUQIJ070vqeNykjR4e5Jfd6IxQz1aRkoISyrz14qiggs4VC5V_h1GFclwRg9wP1sqJczwNImOCEpCVuVtZm6uo-1WyS-nexHz8wIOFRYYmMowzP8tPttscjghSitJw8D_2e04AlgOv4Q/h120/P1030406.JPG
Think about what this means for our lives. God sends challenges our way, and some of them may seem like they're impossible. But really, God knows what we can handle, and he won't give us a challenge that is too big. We just need to have the courage to press forward!
This week we've really been focusing on helping our people know how to endure to the end. It can be hard, yes, and the trials may make us want to give up. But as we learned in Relief Society on Sunday, we cannot go to the Celestial Kingdom and become like Heavenly Father without those trials. You don't have to like them, but maybe we could all stop wishing our troubles would just go away.
___
Well, my dear family and friends, I hope you are all doing well! I pray that the sun shines warm over you, and that you find the courage to be happy always!
Sister Adams
One day, Opile was near his home when Mkuku, the biggest cockroach in the village came and started shouting at the little spider. "You're such a pangono bug!" he shouted. "How can you bring pride to your banja?"
Opile didn't like the shouting, and besides that he knew what Mkuku was saying wasn't true. His Amayi told him every day that she was proud of how quick and clever he was. That gave Opile an idea. Mkuku was big, yes, but he was also slow. Opile was quick and clever, and he could also spin some of the strongest webs in his family.
So, quick as a flash, Opile skittered around Mkuku, wrapping two of his legs in his web and pulling the big cockroach on his back. Opile then pulled his web up between two walls, and made certain that his web would hold. Mkuku, suddenly realizing that he was at a disadvantage, started pleading with Opile to let him go.
"No," Opile said. "I'm leaving you here to be supper for my Amayi and Abambo."
______
This is just a little story I made up after seeing this very ordeal this morning at the flat. And you know, the spider looked very pleased with himself to have caught such a big meal. Probably he thought he wouldn't be able to do it. Maybe he felt scared in the face of such a big opponent.
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUQIJ070vqeNykjR4e5Jfd6IxQz1aRkoISyrz14qiggs4VC5V_h1GFclwRg9wP1sqJczwNImOCEpCVuVtZm6uo-1WyS-nexHz8wIOFRYYmMowzP8tPttscjghSitJw8D_2e04AlgOv4Q/h120/P1030406.JPG
Think about what this means for our lives. God sends challenges our way, and some of them may seem like they're impossible. But really, God knows what we can handle, and he won't give us a challenge that is too big. We just need to have the courage to press forward!
This week we've really been focusing on helping our people know how to endure to the end. It can be hard, yes, and the trials may make us want to give up. But as we learned in Relief Society on Sunday, we cannot go to the Celestial Kingdom and become like Heavenly Father without those trials. You don't have to like them, but maybe we could all stop wishing our troubles would just go away.
___
Well, my dear family and friends, I hope you are all doing well! I pray that the sun shines warm over you, and that you find the courage to be happy always!
Sister Adams
Monday, March 11, 2013
A bit of quiet p-day..
There was some civil unrest today due to some uppity-up's arrest, which meant no going downtown for the missionaries. But we're all fine, as we were warned of the riots before we found ourselves right in the middle. Thank goodness for the church leaders!
The missionaries of the Zambia Lusaka mission have been playing the 'Transfer Shuffle' (similar to the Cupid shuffle) and now we have a new baby shark, along with a pair of new Zone Leaders, and a new sister. We are all excited about the changes being made, but that means that another transfer has come and gone. I'll be starting my 5th transfer, and I'm moving into my "2nd trimester". Yup. I have hit six months!
The branches are planning a youth activity for August, and they're talking about going to Salima. everyone is really excited, as most of the people from the village have never even been up that far. Jacob B was pop-eyed when we told him that he was included in the trip, simply because he's a Deacon! The excitement of the kids here never ceases to amaze me.
I had a cool experience with the priesthood this past week. I had had a really bad cough, one that at one point kept me indoors from weakness, and at another point I couldn't even talk. That evening I asked president P for a blessing, and he promised through the spirit that my body would begin to be healed. In the morning it was only a mild cough and my throat didn't hurt at all! Because of that, I've gained a testimony of the priesthood power.
**
Let us remember, my friends, that there are certain things we need to do in this life. This life is a time to prepare to meet God, but you really only have to worry about today. "Take no thought for the morrow, for the morrow will take care of itself." Just do what you can to make yourself good today.
I love you all a lot!
Sister Adams
The missionaries of the Zambia Lusaka mission have been playing the 'Transfer Shuffle' (similar to the Cupid shuffle) and now we have a new baby shark, along with a pair of new Zone Leaders, and a new sister. We are all excited about the changes being made, but that means that another transfer has come and gone. I'll be starting my 5th transfer, and I'm moving into my "2nd trimester". Yup. I have hit six months!
The branches are planning a youth activity for August, and they're talking about going to Salima. everyone is really excited, as most of the people from the village have never even been up that far. Jacob B was pop-eyed when we told him that he was included in the trip, simply because he's a Deacon! The excitement of the kids here never ceases to amaze me.
I had a cool experience with the priesthood this past week. I had had a really bad cough, one that at one point kept me indoors from weakness, and at another point I couldn't even talk. That evening I asked president P for a blessing, and he promised through the spirit that my body would begin to be healed. In the morning it was only a mild cough and my throat didn't hurt at all! Because of that, I've gained a testimony of the priesthood power.
**
Let us remember, my friends, that there are certain things we need to do in this life. This life is a time to prepare to meet God, but you really only have to worry about today. "Take no thought for the morrow, for the morrow will take care of itself." Just do what you can to make yourself good today.
I love you all a lot!
Sister Adams
Monday, March 4, 2013
Transfer News
So my companion, who is finishing in just over a month, has gotten the news that she will be finishing in Malawi! This is a bit odd, because she hasn't actually served in Zambia in the Zambia Lusaka Mission... She jokes that she's serving in the Malawi Lilongwe mission! And I received news as well--I'll be with her till she's gone! I won't share my speculations here, because I'm not in charge of transfers, but I have a few ideas of how things will be going after that...
Brother L's baptism was on Saturday, and it was a wonderful experience. He looked so happy, and when we told him he'd be able to baptize his wife in two weeks he looked near overcome with joy! It certainly made me really happy to be there (regardless of a bad flu), and I realized that the L's are the first converted family I've helped teach since first contact! I guess that is the show of being on mission for just about six months.
Here is the story behind the monkey skull and the pictures from our Zone trip to Lake Malawi...
I had my hat, a certain hat that made me feel like Indiana Jones. I'd found a nice stick, one that I could walk with and poke things. I also had some kind of strange ball-shaped fruit thing that was very hard and that made me feel like I was out to discover.
So there I was, with my stick and my ball thing and my hat, jumping over the big rocks and feeling like Malawian Jones. I and my beautiful assistant, Sister S, knew that there were baboons nearby, so we were being cautious as we explored. We wanted to discover!
I spotted a tree that I thought myself clever to climb, and as I rounded a large stone to approach the base, we were greeted by the sight of some long-gone creature of local origin! We were fascinated by the spectacle, and we as we examined more closely I, the great Malawi Jones, was able to identify the creature as once being a baboon, the very animals that were now terrorizing our mission trucks in search of food.
I took my stick and poked the skull of the creature, turning it over and grinning like a schoolgirl. There was a hole in the base, just the right size for my stick! I speared the thing, and stood tall as I took it to show the other missionaries.
The reactions were mixed, and the best was a certain Canadian acting Hamlet.
President P at first wanted to claim the thing from me, but I was adamant, saying that I wanted to send it to my family.
You see, I had already begun to formulate a plan that would result in shocks for my family, and lots of laughter for me. I would send the skull without telling them, and hiding it in the package with something else seemed like the best way to do it. Therefore, President P advised me to let the thing sit in bleach for a bit, thus cleaning the skull of any unmentionables.
And thus it was sent.
I walked away from the post office that day giggling like a child, imagining the looks on my family's faces when the package finally arrived and they saw what was inside.
(Note from Naunie- Cassie put the skull with a couple of Chitenjes for Marie and I, but didn't tell us what else was in the box we received last week - imagine our surprise to lift the first fabric and have the skull staring up at us.)
This week we were working with a sister, and we were trying to get her to figure out about our Heavenly Parents on her own. This is the girl that goes silent when she's shocked about something--literally speechless! She kept saying, "Sisters, this is all so much." Do you know those cartoons where their eyes pop and their jaws fall to the floor?
Ndi Makukondani! (in chichewa, that means 'I love you!')
**
The thoughts I leave with you this week is a tidbit from the March Home teaching message. The hymn Master the Tempest is Raging. This powerful song testifies that no matter what trials come our way, if we are built upon the foundation of Christ we cannot fail. We cannot fall. This I also testify to you, and seal this letter with my love,
Sister Adams
Brother L's baptism was on Saturday, and it was a wonderful experience. He looked so happy, and when we told him he'd be able to baptize his wife in two weeks he looked near overcome with joy! It certainly made me really happy to be there (regardless of a bad flu), and I realized that the L's are the first converted family I've helped teach since first contact! I guess that is the show of being on mission for just about six months.
Here is the story behind the monkey skull and the pictures from our Zone trip to Lake Malawi...
I had my hat, a certain hat that made me feel like Indiana Jones. I'd found a nice stick, one that I could walk with and poke things. I also had some kind of strange ball-shaped fruit thing that was very hard and that made me feel like I was out to discover.
So there I was, with my stick and my ball thing and my hat, jumping over the big rocks and feeling like Malawian Jones. I and my beautiful assistant, Sister S, knew that there were baboons nearby, so we were being cautious as we explored. We wanted to discover!
I spotted a tree that I thought myself clever to climb, and as I rounded a large stone to approach the base, we were greeted by the sight of some long-gone creature of local origin! We were fascinated by the spectacle, and we as we examined more closely I, the great Malawi Jones, was able to identify the creature as once being a baboon, the very animals that were now terrorizing our mission trucks in search of food.
I took my stick and poked the skull of the creature, turning it over and grinning like a schoolgirl. There was a hole in the base, just the right size for my stick! I speared the thing, and stood tall as I took it to show the other missionaries.
The reactions were mixed, and the best was a certain Canadian acting Hamlet.
President P at first wanted to claim the thing from me, but I was adamant, saying that I wanted to send it to my family.
You see, I had already begun to formulate a plan that would result in shocks for my family, and lots of laughter for me. I would send the skull without telling them, and hiding it in the package with something else seemed like the best way to do it. Therefore, President P advised me to let the thing sit in bleach for a bit, thus cleaning the skull of any unmentionables.
And thus it was sent.
I walked away from the post office that day giggling like a child, imagining the looks on my family's faces when the package finally arrived and they saw what was inside.
(Note from Naunie- Cassie put the skull with a couple of Chitenjes for Marie and I, but didn't tell us what else was in the box we received last week - imagine our surprise to lift the first fabric and have the skull staring up at us.)
This week we were working with a sister, and we were trying to get her to figure out about our Heavenly Parents on her own. This is the girl that goes silent when she's shocked about something--literally speechless! She kept saying, "Sisters, this is all so much." Do you know those cartoons where their eyes pop and their jaws fall to the floor?
Ndi Makukondani! (in chichewa, that means 'I love you!')
**
The thoughts I leave with you this week is a tidbit from the March Home teaching message. The hymn Master the Tempest is Raging. This powerful song testifies that no matter what trials come our way, if we are built upon the foundation of Christ we cannot fail. We cannot fall. This I also testify to you, and seal this letter with my love,
Sister Adams
Monday, February 25, 2013
Becoming Converted To This Gospel
There's something interesting that we as missionaries have learned from one of our mission leaders. On the other side of the veil, there are spirits of the righteous doing the exact same thing as us who wear the tag. They find, teach, and convert people, all free of any sort of charge. They don't get tired, they don't need to buy things like food or pay for lodgings. So why does the church send out thousands of missionaries every month? Because we, the missionaries, need to become converted to this Gospel.
Sure, we help people. For example, the L family picked up everything and moved two hours away from their nearest family just so they could be closer to the church. Brother L is getting baptized on Saturday, and his wife will follow two weeks after. Their lives will be infinitely blessed by this glorious restored gospel, and yet the same thing could have happened in the spirit world free of charge. I would not trade a single moment with this family for all the treasures on earth.
Another example is Sister N. I've talked about her several times. She chased us away at the beginning, but then progressed to simply tolerating us and (reluctantly) saying recited prayers. Now she'll pray willingly, and the messages she sends to our Heavenly Father are short and sweet. When I listen to her, I can tell she knows who she is talking to.
Being around all these wonderful, humble people are making me question the way I live my life. Why can't I have the faith of Brother L? Why can't I understand my relationship with Heavenly Father like Sister N? But the wonderful thing about this Gospel is that we are all equipped with the ability to change.
One thing I can think of is a caterpillar just when it comes out of it's cocoon. It's a completely new creature. At first, it's unsure of what exactly it is, and so it will just sit there for a while. As for myself, I'm like that caterpillar-just-turned-butterfly. I'm seeing things in a new light, and while I'm eager to learn I'm not sure exactly where--or how--to start. But I know that if I just get on my knees and pray to the Lord I'll be able to get instruction on the way forward.
There was some exciting news in the branch this past week: everyone's passports came through! Several young men have been waiting just for this so they could move forward with their mission papers, and I think the branches are going to be planning a temple trip soon. It's so cool to see their excited faces at the prospect of going to Joberg and getting temple work done, and it makes me so very humbled to know that we in Utah don't have to go to such lengths to attend the temple. Which reminds me--The morning after I get home, I want to go straight to the temple. I don't care which one, I just want to go. Maybe I'll spend the whole day there...
One of the funniest joys I have is trying to describe snow to Malawians. Or just Africans in general. They really don't get the concept of freezing cold all around, and I would trade a year's supply of peanut butter just to see a few of their faces in the dead of a Utah winter. I once was trying to convince one of our Branch missionaries that she would serve her mission on Temple square, and that she would just disappear beneath all the snowdrifts because she's so small. Her eyes were just big and she had very few words to say (a rare occurrence for this sister).
**
I would like to share a bit of something that has really helped me progress as a missionary, as a sister, and even as a human being. Verse four of How Firm a Foundation. I read it, and I had to quickly try to hide my face and the pending tears (because I was in sacrament meeting). Those words really touched me, and I knew that I am not alone in this crazy endeavor. Nobody is. Because the Lord is always with us, no matter what. If nothing else, read through all seven verses of that song, and ponder for a moment the promises the Lord is making to us. I leave you these things in our Savior's name, even Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sister Adams
Monday, February 18, 2013
Things that are good to know in advance...
So this past Sunday, I learned a lot about preparation. There I was, sitting with a lovely family who are preparing to be baptized, playing with their young boy, and somewhat listening to the announcements (which I know by heart now, by the way). They then said the opening hymn and announced my companion as pianist. The direct next words out of brother M's mouth was "and our chorister will be Sister Adams."
I looked up in surprise. They didn't tell me beforehand that I was going to be waving my arms around in front of the congregation. But I shrugged my shoulders and got up to lead the music. It was really no big deal, because I've been a semi-trained singer since I was fifteen. It got me thinking though...
If I hadn't taken choir for all of high school and also college, I would not even know how to read music. And if that had been the case, I would have probably frozen in my seat when my name was called on Sunday (actually I wouldn't even be on mission, but that's a longer story for another day). I've pondered about this experience, and about the purpose of this life.
One day we will be called from this mortal existence, and the time for preparation will have passed. We'll be standing before the judgement bar of God and there won't be a thing we can do to change the way we will be at that point. So it is extremely important that all of us use this life to the fullest, and prepare as best we can to meet our Heavenly Father with no regrets!
About personal revelation: Saturday night, we were making dinner in the flat, and I was putting a package of instant noodles on the stove to cook. I was chatting with my companion about the blessings of serving a mission, and I was looking at my small square of noodles in the pot. I walked out and got the other package I had from the room and walked back in, saying I'd received personal revelation. My companion looked at me like she was impressed, and then I held up the noodles and said "One package will not be enough."
On a serious note though, I have had a bit of revelation. The Lord wants me to learn something in Zambia, and while I'm looking forward to the day President says I'm getting transferred there, I still want to be in Lilongwe for a while longer.
The work here is progressing as always. President P just raised our Zone goal of 26 lessons a week to 28 lessons! It makes me happy that he (and the Lord) has such faith in the way we work, and it shows that he knows we can do it! (Of course, there are some weeks that my companion and I just laugh because we're hitting 30+ lessons a week!)
Love you so much! I'm so happy you are my father for all eternity!
**
Well, the closing remarks of this lesson will be brought to you by Coke, without which my companion would be sprawled on the floor with her scriptures on her face.
To put it in short, God Be With You Til We Meet Again!
Sister Adams
I looked up in surprise. They didn't tell me beforehand that I was going to be waving my arms around in front of the congregation. But I shrugged my shoulders and got up to lead the music. It was really no big deal, because I've been a semi-trained singer since I was fifteen. It got me thinking though...
If I hadn't taken choir for all of high school and also college, I would not even know how to read music. And if that had been the case, I would have probably frozen in my seat when my name was called on Sunday (actually I wouldn't even be on mission, but that's a longer story for another day). I've pondered about this experience, and about the purpose of this life.
One day we will be called from this mortal existence, and the time for preparation will have passed. We'll be standing before the judgement bar of God and there won't be a thing we can do to change the way we will be at that point. So it is extremely important that all of us use this life to the fullest, and prepare as best we can to meet our Heavenly Father with no regrets!
About personal revelation: Saturday night, we were making dinner in the flat, and I was putting a package of instant noodles on the stove to cook. I was chatting with my companion about the blessings of serving a mission, and I was looking at my small square of noodles in the pot. I walked out and got the other package I had from the room and walked back in, saying I'd received personal revelation. My companion looked at me like she was impressed, and then I held up the noodles and said "One package will not be enough."
On a serious note though, I have had a bit of revelation. The Lord wants me to learn something in Zambia, and while I'm looking forward to the day President says I'm getting transferred there, I still want to be in Lilongwe for a while longer.
The work here is progressing as always. President P just raised our Zone goal of 26 lessons a week to 28 lessons! It makes me happy that he (and the Lord) has such faith in the way we work, and it shows that he knows we can do it! (Of course, there are some weeks that my companion and I just laugh because we're hitting 30+ lessons a week!)
Love you so much! I'm so happy you are my father for all eternity!
**
Well, the closing remarks of this lesson will be brought to you by Coke, without which my companion would be sprawled on the floor with her scriptures on her face.
To put it in short, God Be With You Til We Meet Again!
Sister Adams
Monday, February 11, 2013
The magic word this week is Unity
Saturday night I was preparing for bed when my comp and I got a call from President D (of 2nd branch). He asked to speak to me, and asked me if I would be so kind as to give a talk in Sacrament meeting the following day. The topic was unity, he said. I said I would love to, as we had discussed earlier that day about some issues in the branch and it had been my idea to help the members understand about love and *ahem* unity.
As I sat down at my desk to begin writing the talk, I felt the familiar jitters of apprehension that seem to always come with speaking (at one point they came with teaching, but that was really only at the MTC). I absently flipped through Liahona's and Conference magazines, trying to find something that could give me a good idea of how to start. When I picked up one from May 2011, I saw from the YW broadcast a talk that was called "Remember this: Kindness begins with me". Thinking to myself that it looked promising, I turned to the page. (this is where I invite you all to find this particular talk, as it is powerful!)
After I sat down from sharing my thoughts and ponderings on the subject, I felt calm as I prayed the things I shared would be carried to the hearts of those who heard. It is my witness to you that the Holy Ghost does work in the hearts of the people, as long as they are willing to have an open heart.
I found a really nice scripture on Sunday about missionary work. 1 Peter 5:2-4. I was actually reading through the words of Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd, and I was curious about the matching scriptures. These verses are really nice, and I'm making it my goal to be like the undershepherds mentioned in these verses. Its funny--nobody ever mentioned this section to me when giving me missionary scriptures. Now I can pass it on to others!
**
The motivational hymn for the week is Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd (223?). Heavenly Father wants us all to be missionaries as much as we can, and this hymn, as well as the accompanying scriptures, provide some excellent guidelines of how we can do so. I encourage each of you to ponder about the words in the verses, and to apply them to your life where you can. I promise that as you forget about yourself and go out and help others, you'll find a rare sort of happiness (one that I'm still trying to get 24/7!). I love you all,
Sister Adams
As I sat down at my desk to begin writing the talk, I felt the familiar jitters of apprehension that seem to always come with speaking (at one point they came with teaching, but that was really only at the MTC). I absently flipped through Liahona's and Conference magazines, trying to find something that could give me a good idea of how to start. When I picked up one from May 2011, I saw from the YW broadcast a talk that was called "Remember this: Kindness begins with me". Thinking to myself that it looked promising, I turned to the page. (this is where I invite you all to find this particular talk, as it is powerful!)
After I sat down from sharing my thoughts and ponderings on the subject, I felt calm as I prayed the things I shared would be carried to the hearts of those who heard. It is my witness to you that the Holy Ghost does work in the hearts of the people, as long as they are willing to have an open heart.
I found a really nice scripture on Sunday about missionary work. 1 Peter 5:2-4. I was actually reading through the words of Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd, and I was curious about the matching scriptures. These verses are really nice, and I'm making it my goal to be like the undershepherds mentioned in these verses. Its funny--nobody ever mentioned this section to me when giving me missionary scriptures. Now I can pass it on to others!
**
The motivational hymn for the week is Dear to the Heart of the Shepherd (223?). Heavenly Father wants us all to be missionaries as much as we can, and this hymn, as well as the accompanying scriptures, provide some excellent guidelines of how we can do so. I encourage each of you to ponder about the words in the verses, and to apply them to your life where you can. I promise that as you forget about yourself and go out and help others, you'll find a rare sort of happiness (one that I'm still trying to get 24/7!). I love you all,
Sister Adams
Monday, February 4, 2013
Divide and Conquer
Something wonderful happened this past week: the branch in which I'm serving was split! There's about one hundred members in each branch, and the new presidencies are powerful! President D (2nd Branch) has already called about half a dozen people! My comp and I have realized that we weren't transferred because we need to help get these branches on their feet. Because yes, they're doing good in some points, but there are some struggles. But those things happen when the church is just new. And I'm pretty sure that by the time I'm done in Lilongwe I'll know just about all the duties of every auxiliary in the church.
We have a new sister with us! Well, she's not really new, she just got transferred from Blantyre. She is Sister K, from Zimbabwe, and she is what we call a 'Top Shayela' (really fancy person) and we were joking that she will be shocked by the dustiness of the village where she'll work. But we're excited to have her here, and the flat has gotten just a little louder since she came!
This Saturday, I got to have a peek in the life of a Zone Leader. After my comp and I got done in the area (not even after we got done--before we were even finished with our last lesson!) our phone almost blew up with calls! We were asked to help a sister move, and also to pick up the Mtandiri elders, and the Sisters from area 47 and to also drop a branch missionary in area 25 (about a half hour drive on dirt road) , and on top of that we were designated to take a cake to a sister who was having a birthday, and also to help another family get supper. And we were expected to do all this in the 45 minutes we had before the daylight would be gone. I went to bed early that night.
When you get on mission, you learn quickly that little things like a cold don't mean you can stay at home and sleep. President P says when you get a cold, you can either 1) stay at home, drink hot soup, and eat oranges, and your cold will go away in a week; or you can 2) go out and work and it will go away in 7 days. So when I had a cold I didn't really see the point of staying home when I could go out and help other people come unto Christ.
This past week (well, the past several months, actually) I have been able to realize just how much of a blessing it is to have a priesthood holder as my dad. A lot of the young people in the branches are the only members in their families, and so it is kind of hard for them to keep their standards up.
**
The scripture I would like to share with you all in closing is from Doctrine and Covenants, section 121, verses 7 & 8. Read those verses and think about it. Heavenly Father never gives us a challenge that we cannot overcome. So if you are facing something that seems impossible, just remember that our Father in Heaven knows that you can do it. You can go through it. Never forget that.
I love you all so much!
Sister Adams
We have a new sister with us! Well, she's not really new, she just got transferred from Blantyre. She is Sister K, from Zimbabwe, and she is what we call a 'Top Shayela' (really fancy person) and we were joking that she will be shocked by the dustiness of the village where she'll work. But we're excited to have her here, and the flat has gotten just a little louder since she came!
This Saturday, I got to have a peek in the life of a Zone Leader. After my comp and I got done in the area (not even after we got done--before we were even finished with our last lesson!) our phone almost blew up with calls! We were asked to help a sister move, and also to pick up the Mtandiri elders, and the Sisters from area 47 and to also drop a branch missionary in area 25 (about a half hour drive on dirt road) , and on top of that we were designated to take a cake to a sister who was having a birthday, and also to help another family get supper. And we were expected to do all this in the 45 minutes we had before the daylight would be gone. I went to bed early that night.
When you get on mission, you learn quickly that little things like a cold don't mean you can stay at home and sleep. President P says when you get a cold, you can either 1) stay at home, drink hot soup, and eat oranges, and your cold will go away in a week; or you can 2) go out and work and it will go away in 7 days. So when I had a cold I didn't really see the point of staying home when I could go out and help other people come unto Christ.
This past week (well, the past several months, actually) I have been able to realize just how much of a blessing it is to have a priesthood holder as my dad. A lot of the young people in the branches are the only members in their families, and so it is kind of hard for them to keep their standards up.
**
The scripture I would like to share with you all in closing is from Doctrine and Covenants, section 121, verses 7 & 8. Read those verses and think about it. Heavenly Father never gives us a challenge that we cannot overcome. So if you are facing something that seems impossible, just remember that our Father in Heaven knows that you can do it. You can go through it. Never forget that.
I love you all so much!
Sister Adams
Monday, January 28, 2013
Azungu chifoya nditu nditu...
But no worries, my friends; nothing can stop this work!
We had a powerful week. You know, the kind that makes you so eternally grateful that you listened to the spirit (and in my case came on mission)? We had nail-biting times, when Brother L told us that he'd found a house closer to the church, but he'd also been offered a job by the airport which is across the city. My companion and I taught him a lesson on faith and went home crossing our fingers and praying. The next day we saw him in Makatani, looking cheerful as ever. He told us that he'd made a decision, and my comp and I were practically on our toes before he told us...
That he's moving to Kauma! He turned down the job (which is unheard of here!) and found a house that he's confident that he and his wife can afford. We were over the moon about it! And then on Sunday, he even brought his wife and young son along! We were so happy to meet them, and we know that this wonderful couple has been prepared by God Himself.
Some more wonderful-ness: Mission President came and we're having Zone Conference this week, and when President P leaves on Wednesday he might be taking some missionaries with him. I say might, because I know for a fact that for the next transfer I am staying right here in the Celestial area! I'm so happy, especially with the pending baptisms we have this next month (S, a 19-year-old on the 3rd, and the L's on the 17th--powerful, yeah?!). Also it would seem that I'll be 'killing' my mother (or trainer as some call them). She's leaving in April, and I think I'll be her last comp before she goes a week and a half in Zambia.
You know, the subject of this email means 'the azungu has a very bad cold', and when I read that scripture (Alma 26:27) I realized I wasn't bearing my afflictions with patience. I'll work on that this week. And Sister N and I have shared that scripture between ourselves many times, replacing Lamanites with Malawians. And right now I am really trying my level best, but this cold (beginning to think its something else) sometimes gets the better of me and I all but pass out during lessons. But don't worry, my mother is a loving one, and she encourages me every day just by getting me water when I start to cough.
The weather here feels like early May. I told my companion and she looked at me like I was crazy (because early May in South means winter is coming very soon). You know that feeling when it's the last couple days of school, and you know that there are just lazy days ahead? Somehow the weather has brought on the same kind of feeling for me. That's really the best I can describe it... (Sister N also looked at me like I was crazy when I told her).
As for the grossest thing I've eaten, or been offered, (and I'll get a lot of pouts from the villagers for saying this out loud) is nsima. Imagine taking corn flour, boiling water, and stirring the flour in until it makes a putty like substance. Then you eat it with random leaves you pull off the ground, or beans, or these little tiny fish the size of my pinky... yeah. I managed to eat half a lump my first time, but the second time I could hardly finish three fingerfuls. I've tried, though... it's just the consistency of salt dough and tastes about the same... I'm not complaining, its just my companion and I avoid eating in the area as much as possible!
I don't really have much else to report this week that I haven't already written, so I'll just say farewell by dropping a hymn: Come Listen to a Prophet's Voice. Love you!
**
My friends, this week's spiritual thought comes from hymn # 277, and the scriptures associated. We know that the Lord has commanded us to 'be ye therefore perfect', and sometimes we may wonder how on earth we can do so. Well, the answer is found in 2 Timothy 3:14-17. I'll just let you explore those scriptures freely, and let you come to your own conclusions. But don't forget to read!
Love you all!
Sister Adams
We had a powerful week. You know, the kind that makes you so eternally grateful that you listened to the spirit (and in my case came on mission)? We had nail-biting times, when Brother L told us that he'd found a house closer to the church, but he'd also been offered a job by the airport which is across the city. My companion and I taught him a lesson on faith and went home crossing our fingers and praying. The next day we saw him in Makatani, looking cheerful as ever. He told us that he'd made a decision, and my comp and I were practically on our toes before he told us...
That he's moving to Kauma! He turned down the job (which is unheard of here!) and found a house that he's confident that he and his wife can afford. We were over the moon about it! And then on Sunday, he even brought his wife and young son along! We were so happy to meet them, and we know that this wonderful couple has been prepared by God Himself.
Some more wonderful-ness: Mission President came and we're having Zone Conference this week, and when President P leaves on Wednesday he might be taking some missionaries with him. I say might, because I know for a fact that for the next transfer I am staying right here in the Celestial area! I'm so happy, especially with the pending baptisms we have this next month (S, a 19-year-old on the 3rd, and the L's on the 17th--powerful, yeah?!). Also it would seem that I'll be 'killing' my mother (or trainer as some call them). She's leaving in April, and I think I'll be her last comp before she goes a week and a half in Zambia.
You know, the subject of this email means 'the azungu has a very bad cold', and when I read that scripture (Alma 26:27) I realized I wasn't bearing my afflictions with patience. I'll work on that this week. And Sister N and I have shared that scripture between ourselves many times, replacing Lamanites with Malawians. And right now I am really trying my level best, but this cold (beginning to think its something else) sometimes gets the better of me and I all but pass out during lessons. But don't worry, my mother is a loving one, and she encourages me every day just by getting me water when I start to cough.
The weather here feels like early May. I told my companion and she looked at me like I was crazy (because early May in South means winter is coming very soon). You know that feeling when it's the last couple days of school, and you know that there are just lazy days ahead? Somehow the weather has brought on the same kind of feeling for me. That's really the best I can describe it... (Sister N also looked at me like I was crazy when I told her).
As for the grossest thing I've eaten, or been offered, (and I'll get a lot of pouts from the villagers for saying this out loud) is nsima. Imagine taking corn flour, boiling water, and stirring the flour in until it makes a putty like substance. Then you eat it with random leaves you pull off the ground, or beans, or these little tiny fish the size of my pinky... yeah. I managed to eat half a lump my first time, but the second time I could hardly finish three fingerfuls. I've tried, though... it's just the consistency of salt dough and tastes about the same... I'm not complaining, its just my companion and I avoid eating in the area as much as possible!
I don't really have much else to report this week that I haven't already written, so I'll just say farewell by dropping a hymn: Come Listen to a Prophet's Voice. Love you!
**
My friends, this week's spiritual thought comes from hymn # 277, and the scriptures associated. We know that the Lord has commanded us to 'be ye therefore perfect', and sometimes we may wonder how on earth we can do so. Well, the answer is found in 2 Timothy 3:14-17. I'll just let you explore those scriptures freely, and let you come to your own conclusions. But don't forget to read!
Love you all!
Sister Adams
Monday, January 21, 2013
When on mission.....
...You have mission dreams. I dreamt a few nights ago that I was teaching Russel Brand about Law of Chastity. It was very strange.
In other news, there were some city wide demonstrations last Thursday, and President P didn't want us in the area. So instead of going out to work that day... We went to Lake Malawi!
It was such a wonderful day, full of sunshine, a cool breeze, a nice cook-out, and exploring over the rocks. At one point, there were even baboons crawling all over the trucks trying to get the food inside! It was so cool, and I found a stick and felt like I was Indiana Jones . The day was finished off by a wonderful dinner at the B's home.
In Relief Society on Sunday, we had a lesson on Learning by Faith. It helped me put a few of my life goals into perspective, and I would urge all who can to read the chapter by the same title from the Lorenzo Snow book they're using this year. We should always be learning, whether from the scriptures, or from textbooks, or even from other people. But keep this in mind: one of the only things we get to take with us once we depart from mortality is our knowledge, so do all you can to gather all you can!
Well, the toilet walls went up pretty quickly. Elder S said he felt like he was at scout camp, as he went around straightening sticks and tying complicated knots. He and Elder W did a good job! And yes, they are like the privacy part of an outhouse. Usually the walls are brick, but this one was just sticks with plastics stretched between. I can tell you right now I prefer the brick walls (yes, I've used the Hole several times).
If you ask a Malawian, they will tell you that yes, it gets cold. But if you ask someone who hikes around in the snow for fun (me) they will tell you that it's warm all the time and they don't even need the three jackets they brought.
The only thing that makes me sad here, is seeing the rock-bottom of poverty. Sometimes the only thing we can do is turn the other way. But one thing that motivates me is that when Malawi was dedicated for missionary work, it was promised that the country would rise out of poverty when everyone starts paying their tithing. Which gives us a lot of work to do! I know that this Gospel can help improve lives, and it's what gets me out of bed every day.
My companion and I got some wonderful news this week: We led the mission on our key indicators! It was such a shock, because we had basically two full days without lessons, but we've been working hard and I know that's the blessings coming from the Lord.
**
To finish off this week, I would like to share with you all a scripture from D&C 139:12, which says "He who is boring and is a robot, the same is not my disciple." (Section 139 as it is revealed to the missionaries of Zambia Lusaka Mission the GREAT)
Think about it though. Regimentation is the opposite of Revelation. And we need revelation to guide us in a life of discipleship. We need to have fun now and again to keep our spirits light and happy. The Lord has commanded us, in fact, to 'be of good cheer'! How can we pass up obeying such a commandment? So my friends, the song of the week is "Don't worry, Be Happy!"
I love you all,
Sister Adams
In other news, there were some city wide demonstrations last Thursday, and President P didn't want us in the area. So instead of going out to work that day... We went to Lake Malawi!
It was such a wonderful day, full of sunshine, a cool breeze, a nice cook-out, and exploring over the rocks. At one point, there were even baboons crawling all over the trucks trying to get the food inside! It was so cool, and I found a stick and felt like I was Indiana Jones . The day was finished off by a wonderful dinner at the B's home.
In Relief Society on Sunday, we had a lesson on Learning by Faith. It helped me put a few of my life goals into perspective, and I would urge all who can to read the chapter by the same title from the Lorenzo Snow book they're using this year. We should always be learning, whether from the scriptures, or from textbooks, or even from other people. But keep this in mind: one of the only things we get to take with us once we depart from mortality is our knowledge, so do all you can to gather all you can!
Well, the toilet walls went up pretty quickly. Elder S said he felt like he was at scout camp, as he went around straightening sticks and tying complicated knots. He and Elder W did a good job! And yes, they are like the privacy part of an outhouse. Usually the walls are brick, but this one was just sticks with plastics stretched between. I can tell you right now I prefer the brick walls (yes, I've used the Hole several times).
If you ask a Malawian, they will tell you that yes, it gets cold. But if you ask someone who hikes around in the snow for fun (me) they will tell you that it's warm all the time and they don't even need the three jackets they brought.
The only thing that makes me sad here, is seeing the rock-bottom of poverty. Sometimes the only thing we can do is turn the other way. But one thing that motivates me is that when Malawi was dedicated for missionary work, it was promised that the country would rise out of poverty when everyone starts paying their tithing. Which gives us a lot of work to do! I know that this Gospel can help improve lives, and it's what gets me out of bed every day.
My companion and I got some wonderful news this week: We led the mission on our key indicators! It was such a shock, because we had basically two full days without lessons, but we've been working hard and I know that's the blessings coming from the Lord.
**
To finish off this week, I would like to share with you all a scripture from D&C 139:12, which says "He who is boring and is a robot, the same is not my disciple." (Section 139 as it is revealed to the missionaries of Zambia Lusaka Mission the GREAT)
Think about it though. Regimentation is the opposite of Revelation. And we need revelation to guide us in a life of discipleship. We need to have fun now and again to keep our spirits light and happy. The Lord has commanded us, in fact, to 'be of good cheer'! How can we pass up obeying such a commandment? So my friends, the song of the week is "Don't worry, Be Happy!"
I love you all,
Sister Adams
Monday, January 14, 2013
Half-way through the transfer...
Do you know when you work hard, the Lord rewards you? This past week my companion and I did something incredible. Somehow, we managed to teach 36 lessons! This is a new record for us, and we were joking that this week we're aiming for 40! I'm telling you, the Lord's hand is in this work, and He really wants the people in Makatani and Kauma to know of His Gospel.
We found a wonderful family, the K's, who at first seemed just down in the world. We got to know them a little, especially the Abambo, and we started talking a little about the Plan of Salvation. He mentioned that he'd once asked someone where we go after we die, and they'd told him that death was the end. When we testified that it was not, his whole countenance lit up and he looked much happier! It's those kind of people that make me glad I get up every morning!
This Sunday every member got their own Lorenzo Snow book. The presidency went through and wrote their names on them, and passed them out during classes. What made me really grateful was that they even had one for a sister who hadn't come in months, and they had it ready for her like they expected her to come back! It really helped her feel welcome, and we as missionaries are going to serve her on Wednesday (building temporary walls for her toilet, as the last ones fell in the rain) and we're hoping that she'll once again warm up to the Church!
The sun only shines some times. It's the rainy season now, so everything is wet and muddy...
Here they have something like (Friday, the snow day in Davis County because of the storm). Whenever it rains the people just hide indoors (which is great because we always find families at home) and they have 'rain days'. Its not so good, though, when such a day is Sunday and the chapel is only half full. Then we have to go out and have a dozen Sabbath Day lessons, and listen to the people telling us about the mavuto that is the mvula. (I use chichewa words regularly out of habit, so you should get used to that!)
I love you very much!
**
Here's a little thought I'd like to share before I leave you lot for the week. I learned during personal study this week that when Christ accepted the role of Redeemer of us all, He could have, by personal revelation, known how to succor us when we went through trials and pain. But He loves us so much that He chose to physically go through those things, so that "His bowels may be filled with mercy." I testify that because of the Atonement, Jesus Christ truly knows each and every pain and affliction we can ever go through, and because of that we can rely on Him even if its something as insignificant as a headache. Don't try to 'tough it out' when you're going through pain; our Heavenly Father loves us too much for that. Let yourself be lifted from your sadness and be of good cheer (it's a commandment, after all!) and rely fully on the Savior for everything in your life.
I love you all, and I hope you can all keep smiling!
Sister Adams
We found a wonderful family, the K's, who at first seemed just down in the world. We got to know them a little, especially the Abambo, and we started talking a little about the Plan of Salvation. He mentioned that he'd once asked someone where we go after we die, and they'd told him that death was the end. When we testified that it was not, his whole countenance lit up and he looked much happier! It's those kind of people that make me glad I get up every morning!
This Sunday every member got their own Lorenzo Snow book. The presidency went through and wrote their names on them, and passed them out during classes. What made me really grateful was that they even had one for a sister who hadn't come in months, and they had it ready for her like they expected her to come back! It really helped her feel welcome, and we as missionaries are going to serve her on Wednesday (building temporary walls for her toilet, as the last ones fell in the rain) and we're hoping that she'll once again warm up to the Church!
The sun only shines some times. It's the rainy season now, so everything is wet and muddy...
Here they have something like (Friday, the snow day in Davis County because of the storm). Whenever it rains the people just hide indoors (which is great because we always find families at home) and they have 'rain days'. Its not so good, though, when such a day is Sunday and the chapel is only half full. Then we have to go out and have a dozen Sabbath Day lessons, and listen to the people telling us about the mavuto that is the mvula. (I use chichewa words regularly out of habit, so you should get used to that!)
I love you very much!
**
Here's a little thought I'd like to share before I leave you lot for the week. I learned during personal study this week that when Christ accepted the role of Redeemer of us all, He could have, by personal revelation, known how to succor us when we went through trials and pain. But He loves us so much that He chose to physically go through those things, so that "His bowels may be filled with mercy." I testify that because of the Atonement, Jesus Christ truly knows each and every pain and affliction we can ever go through, and because of that we can rely on Him even if its something as insignificant as a headache. Don't try to 'tough it out' when you're going through pain; our Heavenly Father loves us too much for that. Let yourself be lifted from your sadness and be of good cheer (it's a commandment, after all!) and rely fully on the Savior for everything in your life.
I love you all, and I hope you can all keep smiling!
Sister Adams
Monday, January 7, 2013
The Lord really prepares people...
Do you know, the Lord really prepares people! This Sunday my companion and I arrived to church earlier than we usually do, and we found a man sitting there alone, so we decided to go talk to him. He said he was willing to learn the Gospel, so we told him to wait after church and we could teach him. Well, come time to teach, we found out he'd met some Elders back in August who had given him a Restoration pamphlet and a Book of Mormon. He told us he'd read most of it, prayed about it with his wife, and they had both decided to learn more! It was actually quite funny, he practically taught us the restoration! We've already got him a baptismal date for the 3rd of February, and we're super excited to meet the wife and find out how she feels about all of this!
We also had a wonderful experience just after church this week: Sister N was baptized!! This woman once upon a time chased us away and said she wanted nothing to do with her 'husband's church'. On Sunday the two of them were smiling and holding each other like they were newlyweds! These things don't happen in Malawi! She bore a simple testimony, thanking God for her baptism, and sat down. But this woman is so wonderful, and I hope that one day I can have the same joy in the Gospel that she does (she comes and sits in any lessons that are near her house).
One thing I'm grateful for here is what everyone calls mvula gwambiri! (lots of rain) It helps the pollution stay down, so the air, though humid at times, is mostly clear. The rain scares most Malawian's indoors, so we're fortunate to find a lot of people at home when the rains come! Its after that we have to worry about... the ground gets soft and so many people leave to their farms to work after the rain.
It doesn't dampen our lessons, though! My companion and I counted and found we taught a total of 35 lessons this past week! It was really cool! And the people here are so teachable, they know they can hardly get by without help from God so they're really open when we say we're representatives of Jesus Christ.
**
One of my favorite things about this place is the humility and love of the people. They're not afraid to lend a hand when needed, and everyone greets everyone else in such a friendly manner. It is my hope that we can all become more Christlike, and at least smile at people we pass on the street. This is my challenge to all who read these words, is to say hello to at least three new faces each day. You never know, showing that kindness might just change someone's life!
All my love,
Sister Adams
One thing I'm grateful for here is what everyone calls mvula gwambiri! (lots of rain) It helps the pollution stay down, so the air, though humid at times, is mostly clear. The rain scares most Malawian's indoors, so we're fortunate to find a lot of people at home when the rains come! Its after that we have to worry about... the ground gets soft and so many people leave to their farms to work after the rain.
It doesn't dampen our lessons, though! My companion and I counted and found we taught a total of 35 lessons this past week! It was really cool! And the people here are so teachable, they know they can hardly get by without help from God so they're really open when we say we're representatives of Jesus Christ.
**
One of my favorite things about this place is the humility and love of the people. They're not afraid to lend a hand when needed, and everyone greets everyone else in such a friendly manner. It is my hope that we can all become more Christlike, and at least smile at people we pass on the street. This is my challenge to all who read these words, is to say hello to at least three new faces each day. You never know, showing that kindness might just change someone's life!
All my love,
Sister Adams
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