December 28th letter

Hey Mom!

Well I can tell you that the family that let us Skype is the DeWitts but I cannot remember the address right now. So I will have to get that to you next week. And then as for the family we ate dinner at was the....DeWitts. They love the missionaries and always have invited them over (not just Taiwan but all over the world). Their son with his family is visiting (will be here for about a month, he is in the Airforce). But super funny is that he smuggled a ham from America through so we got ham for Christmas dinner as well as many other traditional American food, and homemade apple pie!

It was so nice and good talking to everyone. I can't believe how much everyone has changed! It is nuts! I can't believe Allaina is skiing. I can't believe how much Zephyr loves cars, trucks, trains, and toy story. I can't believe that Sahara has all 13 Articles of Faith memorized. Everyone is growing and changing so much.

Well things need to be shorter for this week (plus we talked last week). Here is what I shared with President:

Hey President!

Well it was a wonderful week as Christmas came and the opportunity to talk with family. I loved the opportunity and chance I had to see them and talk with them. I certainly do miss them, but I have been working hard of setting in that I am here for the long run and won't quit or give up short before my time is up as a servant of the Lord in  Taiwan. It is actually really cool I had read over about President Hinckley (we all love the story of his dad telling him to forget himself and go to work) recounting later on in his life how that the thing that helped him to keep working hard and pressing forward was the moments when he recommitted himself to the work. I feel that almost every single person comes to points and times when they are stretched to their very limits and face what seems to them insurmountable, but as they turn over to the Lord what they are faced with and recommit to Him that they will work their hardest and serve their best, they quickly find themselves at the summit of this challenge looking back at the valley they had just traversed through. I know there have been many of these valleys that I look back on now and can see how each time I have made the choice to keep at it, recommit to the Lord, and then go forward trusting in Him I have come out well on the other side.

I am astounded at how much I have felt over the last week in my studies and Preach My Gospel have been talking of listening to or reading the word of God as strengthening faith (which I feel right now is one of the biggest things several of our investigators need right now since they all seem to have one little problem from keeping them immediately getting baptized). So in my studies I have been really trying to focusing more to preparing and giving more opportunities to my investigators that they may hear the word of God or to study the word of God.

We are doing good in 苓雅 and will work at getting more baptism goals on the board. We are really going to work hard at getting 2 baptisms in January (I have faith and know that we can hit it, we have the names to support these goals).

Love you and happy new year!

Elder Dayley

I love you lots and lots! And the family lots and lots!

Elder Roo

December 21st Letter

I am on right now yeah. Merry Christmas! I love you and your family so much! I was actually quite surprised to get the package actually. On Friday my companion moved (still in Gaoxiong, just up in the mountains). So we met up at the train station for Elder Ulrich to meet his new companion to go back to Qishan. So then I went with Elder Ensign and Elder McDougal (the other Lingya elders that are in the 4 man together with us) since my new companion, Elder Robinson, was not getting to Gaoxiong until 2 in the afternoon (he was coming from Taizhong). So we went north of our area in Gaoxiong city still to an area called Zuoying that has these really cool towers (one a dragon and one a tiger) with a lot of traditional cultural stuff. Regardless to say and long story short, I had a bike but my new companion Elder Robinson didn't so we got back to the apartment after the other elders did and I came into my room to see a package sitting on my bed. I was super happy and excited because at first I didn't know who it was from and then I didn't know what exactly could be in it. Then what made it even more funny was I was opening it and Elder Ensign was standing by as well to see what I got, and so I opened and started pulling stuff out and just kept pulling more and more Pop Tarts out! Me and Elder Ensign were just thinking there can't be more, but nope! There kept being more and more Pop Tarts. Thank you so much for the package. I guess you really took to heart of what I said about what you can send me.

So yeah I saw Dad's email but it is too late to talk with him because he is on the plane. But you are on. So as much as I feel imposing and embarrassed to come to the members home, the DeWitts have said it is no problem at all for us to come over at 9 to skype. So Elder McDougal and I are skyping at 9 in the morning our time (which I believe will be 7 your time). Then Elder Ensign and Elder Robinson are skyping at 10. The DeWitts are super, super nice. They said they even back home in Minnesota still invited the missionaries to come over and Skype.

Sahara and Zephyr will have plenty of energy then, I hope! Super happy and excited to see you and talk with everyone.

Love you so much!

Elder Dayley

December 14th Letter

Hey Dad!

You know it's funny how that you talk about with the Elder's Quorum that at moments not really anything is happening and it is rather quite sober, and then about 20 things all happen at once. To sum up Lingya for you in very much the simplest and easiest sense, that is exactly how Lingya is. There are moments where it doesn't seem like a lot is happening or where it is just a day ahead of us to contact a lot or finding people. And then I get days where I am getting 7 or 8 lessons, running all over our area to get to appointments, and having about 10 different pressing matters. For example about a week ago we sat down to make calls at a 7-11 before going off to English Proselyting. Throughout the whole time we called only 1 or 2 people answered. Then with five minutes till English Proselyting we went out to our bikes to head off and some crazy, poor guy came up and started talking to Elder Ulrich and asking for money. At this time one of our investigators called back so I spent time talking to her and setting her up. Then after I hung up immediately a LA called back and I set him up to meet later as well. Then another investigator called right after I hung up with the LA while at the same time the crazy guy kind of went off and some other guy that was handing out flyers on the corner came over and talked with Elder Ulrich for a second (which sadly afterwards he didn't have any interest). But then it made us a little late to English Proselyting, although it all worked out ok in the end.

Quite an interesting experience to happen at the temple. I guess it shows that we are all really human after all.

Yeah I am sure it is quite a show to see how the missionaries who have returned home are all turning out. But in all honesty that doesn't fully matter right now or in my opinion really needs to be thought on.

Yeah I know I haven't really told or said much about my new area or all the different things that have been happening. So here goes:

I am right in the very central heart Gaoxiong City. I actually have figured out now that the Gao 85 (the biggest sky scraper in Gaoxiong) is just outside our area, literally 2 blocks away. But we still have a lot of all the hubbub of the city and tons of people. Not always from our area. But yeah it is all city and that is about it. No countryside or anything, which is actually funny that at first I always thought that I didn't like cities. But I love being in Gaoxiong city! And being right in the middle of it too! We live right by the Cultural Center in the city which is more towards the east side. But the church is outside of our area all the way on the west side. So on a good day, biking really fast, and may or may not be walking our bikes through an intersection that is still red light and no other cars around, can get home from the church in 12 minutes (which just so happened a couple nights ago because we had a lesson go long and didn't leave the church until 9:47 pm since we had to close it up and got home right before 10, so thankfully I didn't have to call President that we were going to be home late). This keeps happening several times though that I don't get home at 9 on time because we have lessons or are biking back home.

I don't know if you know this though. Elder Dailey served in Lingya as well. So several people know him and it has been way fun having another Elder Dayley here who was also his companion before. Although Matt hasn't emailed at all, the duffer. I'll have to kick his butt.

As for my companion right now, Elder Ulrich is super awesome. He had just got done with training when I got here. His Chinese is already super good (I swear every companion I get with I feel like their Chinese is as good as mine or even better, even though they are all younger than me mission wise). He is a little more softer and reserved like me sometimes and it has been really funny as several times we call an investigator to follow up they can't figure out if it is me or Elder Ulrich talking with them because accordingly to them and even the other missionaries in our district we can sound pretty alike. Elder Ulrich is very studios and a good endurance person. He has about a million different journal and thought books that he writes in. Things from just thoughts throughout the day to a dream journal to a regular journal to a specific study journal on more his personal questions and things he feels he lacks in understanding. He is a lot better about writing down so much stuff and recording stuff than I ever am. He has a really fun personality or being more calm, collective, and reserved, but then at other moments more funny and childlike side comes out and makes the situation a lot more funny. Sadly though, he is moving this next Friday to Qishan (just north and east of us by bus ride, still in Gaoxiong).

So yeah this next week is going to be a whole transfer week (even though the next movecall actually starts next week). It is because all the missionaries going home can't fly on the week of Christmas, so they are flying home this week. Then as for new missionaries I think there are some Taiwanese that are coming this week but as for the American missionaries they are not coming because of visa issues still. We still don't know all the reasons and what exactly is going on as to why the visas are not going through. But so they are having everyone move this Friday instead to compensate missionaries going home and the few new missionaries coming on. So my new companion is Elder Robinson coming down from Daya all the way up in Taizhong. He is from the same generation and MTC district as Elder Ulrich (so I believe he will be on his 4th movecall). But from what I have heard is that his Chinese is also super good, like in the MTC he could already write little notes and such in Chinese. I wonder what the Lord is trying to tell me or why it is that he always seems to pair me with someone who already has really good Chinese.

The area though is doing super good, we are just focusing towards getting more baptismal goals extended. Right now our best investigator we are meeting with is J. She is already graduated from college (just this year actually) and is working right now. But she loves the church a ton. She comes to church as well as a ton of other activities. Her religion that she has had before was the traditional Taiwanese religion of Taoist/Buddhist. Even though she is 24, her parents have still expressed that they don't agree with her getting baptized (even though she doesn't need their consent) and so for awhile it had kind of deferred her from huge desire to get baptized. What transpired though over the weeks is that it had more come to as well about a desire to be baptized not being there because she hadn't received any real miraculous answer or big miracle to that being the right thing to do. We had even taught her fasting and invited her to fast last Sunday specifically about if baptism is the right thing to do. Sadly she had said that she didn't really feel anything particular. But then really cool blessing and miracle that last Wednesday after English got done we had a few of our investigators there that we were talking to (Elder Ulrich was talking with Roger, I was talking with R our investigator as well as Richard Li our member, and J was there as well). Sister Hsu and Sister Thao had just got out of a lesson and came up to start talking with J (they serve in the Shizhong ward, but still also help with befriending our investigators since women just know how to friendship and help women). So for part of their conversation me and the Richards were involved until we broke off and talked more among ourselves. But it was super cool what Sister Hsu shared and talked with her about. At first she just straight up asked when her baptism date was (before she had a date for the 20th, but then dropped and hadn't given a new one since because she was still feeling like she hadn't had a strong answer yet). She then talked more with her and the point I feel really helped J a ton and helped to progress much more in her faith and showing to herself the testimony she has already gained is that Sister Hsu asked if she has shared what she has learned with others around her. J replied yes. Then Sister Hsu asked if us Elders had invited her to do this. J replied no (which is true that no we didn't invite her to share with friends, at least not yet, but she has already shared with coworkers what she has been learning and even brought one of her coworkers to English where afterwards Elder Ulrich and a member sat down with her). Sister Hsu then went on to share how prophets and apostles have testified that one of the greatest signs of having faith and a testimony and that you really know these things to be true is when you act yourself to share it with others (like Lehi in his dream with the desire to share the fruit with his family and friends after he had partaken of the fruit). So when we met with J last Saturday morning we had Richard help sit in on the lesson (the member who is probably one of the funniest guys I have met and actually met up with Matt back in New York for a day while he was back east). Richard helped along with us to really emphasize the point Sister Hsu had made and Joyce just immediately said I want to set a date. Richard kept going on to testify of some point but J said again I want to set a date. She said (this is the simplest and best way to translate to English) that she is hard working. So after looking at the calendar for a little bit she set a date for January 1st. Both Elder Ulrich and I are super happy for her!

Another investigator that we are meeting right now that I love to death is R. He had just come to English the Wednesday right before I had come (literally 2 days before I got here). Background about him: He is already Christian. He got baptized about 10 years ago in the Zhanglao Church (which I think is the Presbyterian Church). He is a drummer now for a Christian rock band at some other church, but loves to learn English, but also is in my mind very prepared and good man. We have shared the message of the restoration with him (which we might review with him this next week) and he is willing to pray and read but feels that baptism is a little too fast right now. He wants to learn and understand more. He even found out about the polygamy stuff but Richard (member, which has actually been really fun having him sit in on lessons because they have the same name) helped to explain and expound on that and that R (investigator) was like hey, yeah actually even in old times prophets or others had more than one wife. We have even met his mom now too (who is also Christian, super nice and friendly and I imagine not opposed to us at all because she treated us to some soup at a little store nearby her store in the department store). We shared the plan of salvation with him and the part that really stuck out to him and he really liked a lot was that fact about how everyone will have the chance to accept Christ whether in this life or in the spirit world. He said he has asked others in his church before what about the people like in the mountains (natives, aboriginees) or other areas where they never learn about Christ are they just condemned to hell? No one in his church he said was able to answer him. After this lesson he even had read 4 pages of the BoM that night (before that he hadn't read much yet from being busy, tired, and probably also forgetting). We are hoping and praying that he will come to church this next week (didn't yesterday because he went with his mom and older sister to a spa in Pingdong).

We don't have any RCs that we are working with because the only there was when I came here had already moved to America back in May. And as for LAs there are a few we are working with. But time is never enough. To much to try and share about over such small time and just typing words. Seriously!! It's ridiculous!

As for calling for Christmas I can call anytime on the 25th or the 26th. So that is the 24th or the 25th pretty much for all of you. It's really up to you of what time you want to do it at. The DeWitts have offered and said we can come to their house to Skype (which we probably will) because they have 2 laptops we can use. Probably a determining factor will be for Sahara and Zephyr so that it isn't too late for them. You will have to let me know.

Wow that is a lot. And it probably is only a scratch at the surface of all that happens and is going on. We have probably about 7 or 8 investigators we are working with right now. 1 has a baptism goal right now and at least 2 or 3 of them could fall into a baptism goal in the next week or so. So we are really going to pray and work hard a lot to help serve these people.

That is totally fine to take Elder Yang over to the temple and eat. He will have a little something for you as well from me.

Have fun at the Roskelley's! I really need to try and take more pictures. I feel it to be bothersome sometimes though because I am so programmed to think so much more on all the proselyting I can be doing in a moment.

Love you so much!

Elder Dayley

November 30th 2014

Hey Mom!

Oh man the day has come now that I am up to the top row. Didn't ever think that would come. Kind of scary that it has come... :/ But anyway super cool the Elder Fyffe got to report on his mission and share his testimony, especially his desire to love others and help his older sister.

So as for packages, yes I got the first package. Actually quite funny is that Elder Ulrich got his Christmas package on the same day as I did. So it was well here in time. I actually during part of my study time this morning spent making my little Lego Christmas tree from last year (so I have a tree up now). We actually got a bit of decorations up now. And yes I finally figured out this morning that the clothespins were meant for the ornaments to be put on the tinsel. I will have to take a picture of what it will all look like after I get the lights figured and strung up as well.

I would imagine that this year the decorations would not be as much as what next year will be like. So that will be fun to get all set up and done next year.

So the conference was really good actually. Elder Gong from the 1st quorum of the seventy (who is the Asia Area President) came and toured our mission. Gaoxiong was the first stop. He really talked and emphasized a lot on focus, energy, and faith. Which are all things I feel are key and what I need to keep building more than ever. Without the faith you can't believe in miracles (which do happen!). Without the focus you can't even guide and direct yourself to keep at what you are doing to the fulfilling of miracles. Without the energy you can't even accomplish the miracle because you give up right when the moment is most needed to have a push through.

Something really interesting that has stood out to me over the last week and was even talked a bit in the mission tour is the fact that each of us in our trials and tribulations will have to walk the path that the Savior did. That means there will needs be a time when we will feel abandoned. This happened to the Savior and was the only way he could partake of the bitter cup allowing the Atonement to be fulfilled and for us to be able to be redeemed. So why would we be exempt from the same things that the Savior suffered through that repentance may be possible. So that is where faith and trust really count. Not up front at the calm before the storm. But rather in the rage when you feel all left to yourself and still act on that faith and trust that God will not abandon you (which he will not abandon you!).

As for the musical piece I was running through it rather well before the conference. But when performing I got to a part and I slipped up a little that got me off and dropped out for about 5 or 6 measures to where I finally could jump back in. Afterwards Elder Ulrich commented how that it sounded like it was a little different from practicing and I told him why and he remarked wow, you did a really good job that your face didn't even express anything that you messed up. So I guess I have gotten better than what it was like those years ago performing that one piece. Even Elder Ng (who I accompanied) afterwards came up and asked what happened. I told him and he was like yeah I was having such a hard time of not having my hands clenching up. Note to you, it can be really hard to perform the piano when you get adrenaline pumping through your body.

As for our group I think we are still in forming stages. The other companionship is whitewashing so they got to the area same day as I did. Only Elder Ulrich is the experienced one here in Lingya. As for storming I haven't seen too much yet. We will see.

You want to know something. My mission has really taught me to see how much of different things the adversary uses to set up snares and traps. For some reason I can sometimes tend to see more of the underlining reason behind things and why things happen certain ways. That is why sometimes I get really annoyed about advertisements of any sorts. They are very very annoying because it really just stands out so much for the short term happiness it is expressing.

I hope all goes well with your group projects and papers for school. As well as preparing for finals. I will pray for you. Is there anything else I can do to help you?

Here is President's Letter:

Hey President!

This past week was a wonderful week of love and outpouring as well as good counsel and direction. I really appreciated and need to look back over my notes of all that Elder Gong taught. As well as I agree with what you replied to last week's email. I need to listen and accept more within myself all that others say of the good I do and can do. Even you yourself say that I am doing good. So I will act and make change going forward that I am good missionary. Which I guess feeling to share and say, I feel confident more in myself that I can handle the tasks the Lord can give me and asks of me. I won't lie I enjoyed the privilege to serve as a district leader in Taiping and wouldn't mind to serve in similar capacity again. But as well as I really love my area here in Lingya and know that I would love to be here even for the rest of my time. All I guess I wish to express is that you and the Lord know that I am willing and will give my whole effort and heart in serving in whatever capacity and calling you ask of me.

As for miracles and cool things this past week, it has been rather miraculous and cool seeing a new investigator we have that comes from a different Christians church (where the minister bashes on Mormons) desire so much to meet with us, come to the Shi Zhong Elder's baptism, and even ask during the intermediate part of the baptism for a Book of Mormon (we hadn't done the first lesson yet and were going to sit down with him afterwards). His name is Richard and I really see in him such a strong desire to learn the truth but also really seek out God's truth. We are really excited for him.

In my studies I have read through about the sons of Helaman, which is where I have gotten to in my personal reading actually. It was actually interesting a part about how that when they are fleeing they don't turn left or right but keep going straight, which taught me that in my challenges and trials I can't turn but need keep going straight and true to what the Lord asks.

Love ya!

Elder Dayley

I love you lots and lots!

Elder Dayley

November 16th 2014

Hey Dad!

Well I said I would devote more time this week to you and Mom and here I am. I have already emailed a few others, but haven't gotten to President yet. But I have been neglecting you too much. Sorry!

Well I will keep my eyes out and will hopefully be trying to mail off my Christmas package this week. Also you have stinking little intuition. I think you know me too well. Well for the most part I have been doing pretty good throughout the week to try and keep focused and more directed towards my purpose (the last couple days have been a little more struggle), but it has been good talking things out with Elder Williams who has a good ear and gives good advice. I am gearing up more this week to be myself, not worry, go out and have fun, and work hard. But before you get all crazy and what not, I am moving this week.

That is because finally after prayers and now almost 4 months, new missionaries are coming. 21 actually are coming this week. So move call actually happened last week, but only companionships with companions going home were affected. So not much moving happened last week. Then Saturday night the ZLs texted and said that move call is happening Friday, and that these people are moving (in my district that included me, Elder Davis, and Sister Anderson). Sister Anderson will probably be going back to Dakeng to keep being the Sister Training Leader until she goes home in like 4 weeks. As for the rest of us we don't know yet. So at least I got a little training from being in Jiayi, getting kicked out, and moving to Zhanghua for a week to then find out a week later I was staying there. It still is a little annoying so far in advanced that I am moving. Elder Anderson actually just barely about 30 minutes ago (we are all emailing together at an internet cafe, Elder Anderson is Elder Davis's companion and is one move call below me) that he is training. President just called him.

It actually came more to me this past week of how powerful fasting can be, not in the fast itself but in the principle of fasting. I think the mission has taught and testified to me so much of the Law of the Fast. So if you think about it with fasting, you forsake a natural and very much necessary part of your body to give focus and direction towards a higher cause and purpose. You start with a prayer, specifically asking for blessings and help, and most likely throughout the fast you focus, ponder, and think on that purpose. Of course throughout the day while you are fasting you have your tummy rumble, you may feel weaker, you may feel lightheaded, you have things yelling out and wanting you to see how much you are hungry and want to eat. Even when others are eating food it looks so much more appealing and appetizing. But I have come to see and learn with myself that I used to be a bit of stickler about fasting and wanted it to end so bad and would think about food or other things, or would even end early. Now though I have come to my fasting that really that tummy grumbling or other things don't even phase me. Now applying this to other aspects of life And that is being a missionary. I actually am starting to have greater respect and understanding for myself.

Wow that was pretty long. That is super cool that the Collings got to talk. I will for sure visit them when I get back. I think Brother Collings is a perfect person to teach and expound upon forgiveness and forgiving oneself. You will just have to tell them for me that I am grateful for what they have shared with me and that it still has influence on me today. Tell them they are wonderful (also I think one of their mission presidents spoke at our stake conference yesterday. He is from Hawaii, but I forgot his name, he said he served like 15 or 16 years ago).

Yes I did get the letter from Disneyworld. I think it is in my bag right now actually.

Dad I really like the poem you shared. It is actually funny and interesting. Last night Elder Williams and I got talking about some things. And somehow we got talking about Rocky. I had mentioned earlier in the night that sometimes I have a harder time to envision success. He mentioned to me how success will come and go, what you need to do is envision yourself being the best you can and putting forth all your effort in any circumstance. So to Rocky. Elder Williams boxes. So he loves Rocky as well. He pretty much gave me a synopsis of all 6 movies. And what is interesting is that Rocky in 6 of his fights actually doesn't win all of them. He only wins 3 of the fights. But he went through a whole process of learning to be himself and giving his best in the circumstance throughout.

As you asked about how the work is going. It's hard. It's the hardest thing ever. I felt like we went out worked pretty hard last week (still some moments where I know I can do better), but for all our work we had a total of 6 lessons (not including meeting with some members and families). This past week we had the challenge to get 50 adds (people who set up to meet with us) we got 19 or 20, which is a lot more than we usually do. But I don't think I have had as many people stand us up in a week as I have had this week. So the work has been hard, to be straight up. It definitely has tested my faith and I am kind of mending it a little bit right now. But the challenges will help to grow my faith.

We have one investigator who had a baptismal goal which dropped because he didn't come to church.. He has been super solid and good about reading (already into 2 Nephi) and praying twice a day. The hardest part for him is that he has grown up his whole life being Buddhist and its been rocking the boat a little to come to us saying that this is the true church. Just like having something so natural a part of you and someone saying that it isn't the best or the right one and that this is. So we have been praying for him, asking him to really sincerely pray, share with Heavenly Father his feelings. Which I feel he has been doing, so now it is to have faith and trust in Heavenly Father answering his prayers and that he will recognize it.

The RCs have been doing super good as always. Adolf a couple weeks ago went to the temple and did baptisms for the dead. Brother Lin is always super good and never having any problems. We shared and reviewed President Monson's talk with him and he already knew a ton about the ship Bismark, so it was pretty funny teaching the lesson.

Just a matter of letting worries and fears go and just being the best me possible. I know I can do it!

Love you so much!

Elder Dayley

November 9th to Dad

Hey Dad!

Yeah we are on a little later today. We went over to the mission office to say goodbye to a friend going home now (just barely was our zone leader). Then we came back and ate at a hot pot buffet because yesterday was Elder Hintze's birthday (he is in the Dongying ward). And then we looked through an antique shop to see what there was. Then that brings us to now. Email time. So today is the start of a new move call. And literally the next whole month or two is going to be so crazy and all over the place.

First off there were only 2 new missionaries that came on (one is Taiwanese and one is from Japan but has a French last name) this past week. As of right now the plan is hopefully that we will have about 20 or so missionaries come one in 2 weeks (or at least we will do a mini move call in two weeks which will really be our big move call since today not many people moved around and a lot more short term missionaries are serving for the next couple weeks). But then today talking to Elder Sumsion who will go home at the end of this move call was saying that actually I guess there is church policy of a black out period of two weeks where no church people move around. So the missionaries going home actually go home about 4 or 5 days before the start of the next move call. And that one will have a lot of people going home (including the sisters I came on island with). But yeah that means that Elder Mudrow who is Zone Leader in Gaoxiong East will go home, Elder Fiegleson who is AP will go home, Elder Flint who is operations manager will go home, and many others as well. Super crazy and lots of changes that will be happening. All kicking off with when the new missionaries arrive. 

But so yeah I am still in Taiping going on to my 4th movecall here. Elder Williams is still with me. I am still serving as the District Leader (and I feel in parts like I have hit that phase where you were talking about feeling really inadequate as a leader). I feel that it in parts stems from me working over some weaknesses in I feel my faith and diligence. I do feel to say that I am getting better about facing on the challenges and trials in front of me or casting out the lies and doubts. It is still a trying challenge. I guess it stems from in parts that this last week our numbers and so forth weren't so good (the lowest compared to anyone else in the district) and talking last night with Elder Williams about what is it that we are missing or not doing. We both had the conclusion feeling that it just is coming down to the diligence and putting forth the faith. I guess really staring me in the face is working really, really hard (which I am gearing up for and willing to go and do now more than ever). It's just annoying when you get little crappy feelings that all they seem to do or feel that I am really not that good or that strong, comparatively. Hmmm, I guess this really is all that the adversary ever does. Yeah I have made mistakes. Yeah I have at times not worked as hard or as faithfully, or as full of love as I could have. But I guess it really just is now to out with whatever happened in the past, and that I am going to go out and make a difference. I am going to go out and believe in myself to hike the summit and stay on top of the summit.

So yeah Elder Williams is still the English Leader. Sister Parkinson is the only one with a new companion (it actually being Sister Anderson because her sister training leader position over in Dakeng, the north Taizhong zone, is closing down for a couple weeks, so she is coming over here where actually she was trained at the start). So that is all really the changes that happened. 

I think about it all the time of trying to make the most of moments. I find it actually quite a conundrum. I feel like it will never really be made the most of in the moment and always will have to some extent afterwards those feelings of longing and desire to just once more experience or partake. So I don't know, if you have any feelings or thoughts about how to make the most of moments better, that would be cool.

Also, do you still collect those marble balls at all?

Love you

Elder Roo

Nov 9 to Dad

Hey Dad!

Well all I can say right now is it is my turning point and cross roads of destiny to create unbreakable faith to labor like never before and trust in God and believe in myself.

Investigators and so forth have some few solid ones, a ZD, and R (one is super solid who is progressing really well, the other is an Atheist and just met for the first time last week, but has the desire of a seed to try). 

Sorry I wish I had more time to say things. I humbly simply ask that you pray for where I am serving and pray that I truly start believing in myself and to train myself to bounce forward continuously to let things go.

Love you lots!

Elder Dayley

November 9 to Allisa

Hey Sis!

So the Halloween party actually went pretty good! Our spook alley went pretty funny but also scary. I played scary music a lot on a really out of tune piano. Then we had some fun games at the end as well with a spiritual share. I tried a bobbing for apple and got it the second try.

Yeah I will be playing for the stake next week. I have been working as hard as I can at the piece with the time I can fit in and not use up too much with missionary work. Hopefully it should all go well.

I am happy the primary program went well and that Sahara did so good. We had our primary program this last week as well. It was super cute and super funny. There was one little boy who didn't want to go up and do it, so his dad had already recorded him saying it and got up to the pulpit and put his phone up to the mic. Pretty funny!

I am sure Sahara had the best birthday ever with it being little mermaid.

Super cool Marty is opening up his practice with his brother. I think that smile on orthodontics is much better sounding in my opinion.

Love you lots!

Elder Roo

November 2 to Allisa

Hey Sis!

Oh man! I didn't know when my card would get there. I was just hoping it wouldn't take too long. I sent 2 weeks ago Thursday. So not too bad! :D I am so happy that she loved the card. I literally spent like 15 minutes or so deciding between cards for her and Allaina. I wanted to get one that was perfect (not too Taiwanese weird, but still enough Taiwanese there that it is cool and unique). I love her too! I thought the stickers would be priceless. Half of them on there I have been to or have seen.

Yeah I agree the price for 東西是超級誇張. But still super cool and awesome for Sahara to have that experience and memory. Aw man! Z is loving my most favorite ride! Hands down that is the best one there, the cars ride. Super funny that he loves Buzz and Woody. I know that at least between mom and I that is a special movie because each one follows pretty much exactly the timeline of my life as well. When the 3rd one came out and Andy was going off to college, I was graduating and going off to college.

You made Sahara and Zephyr's costume!? That is super good! I never knew you to be that creative and that good at making things. When I saw the picture I recognized that Sahara was Ariel but I just thought Z was a lobster. Then after a minute it dawned on me that it looked more like a crab and that he was probably the crab from the little mermaid. Still can't believe you made it though! 

Yeah pretty much kids get loaded with candy at Halloween. You know it is kind of sad that Halloween literally came and went and I didn't even really realize it was Halloween. Something that was in the back of the mind, but when it was Friday I maybe remembered when I woke up, but going throughout the day it just got forgotten and I didn't even say happy Halloween at all. It's ok though, this Wednesday is our English party and we are doing a Halloween party. So we are going to try and pull off some spook alley as well as some games. Elder Williams and I have it worked out to use the high council room which has a big oval table. We are getting the help of some youth (our RC is really good at sneaking up on us and popping up at our sides without us knowing, so he will work great). The piano in there is really out of tune, so our RC printed off some music from a scary Taiwanese movie that I will play on that as people go through (because it will be super dark so they won't see me either).

I think Z may be getting some of me in him. I was a bit of a little impatient boy when I was younger. Sometimes I still can be. It's gotten better though.

Good thing Halloween was a success. Good luck with the songs! You will do great! I know you can! I literally get asked to play the piano each Sunday and they end up being songs from the hymn book or children't book and some I haven't played before at all but I just pick it up there and play. Also they changed there minds back again that I will accompany playing the piano for the choir that is performing in Stake Conference in 2 weeks. It is actually a pretty tricky piece, but I have been getting it down. It is called "Beautiful Savior". We will have a flutist as well as celloist accompanying. Overall I want to get my part down really well so it won't be too intimidating playing at stake conference. Eli, a member, was telling me how the conductor talked with the stake coordinator for music who talked with President saying they can't move me this next week (a new move call next week and I have already been in my area for 3 move calls) because they can't find anyone else that quick to accompany on the piano. So nothing is for sure, but thought it kind of funny how they went all the way up to P. Blickey to say I can't move.

Well anything for Christmas really would be some nice little sweets of home. Like Reeses or Pop Tarts. Those are always good. Besides that though there really isn't anything I need.

I love you lots and lots!

Elder Roo

November 2 to Dad

Hey Dad!

So you come to be the last of the day! I think you are pretty crazy for how much traveling you have been doing just the past week. I would be pretty dog tired, especially if I was 50 ;) 

I think you are stealing Zephyr too much. I haven't even met the little guy at all yet! Don't take too much of him now!

Oh and you say you have watched Cars with them. I already have it lined up that I will start them off the right foot. We will watch Star Wars and as well as Wreck It Ralph (maybe even in Chinese as well). I will make sure Zephyr loves Star Wars!

Tell Mom thanks for her sweet comments. It touches me a lot. Tell her good luck and keep working hard. She is doing a good job. And it doesn't matter that maybe she is a little older, she is just more revered. Just like the older missionaries (like who have come out later than normal) tend to be more revered and looked up to.

Can't believe Jeff is now married. And what is funny is missionaries still know at least Elder Stark's name around here (I will have to say for good and for bad). But yeah I miss the people back home or all like the scripture study.

I can't believe that McKenna Mecham is going on mission too, and to Sweden none the less. I don't really think or feel that I put that big of an influence on the younger generation. Like I said before I was just trying to do what was right.

Definitely that was a tender mercy that you missed the exit to then see the temple.

As for C (our investigator and RC's friend). His parents have been fighting and talking about divorce, so please pray for him and his family because he still hasn't shared with them that he is meeting with us.

I haven't gotten the letter from Disney yet, but it will probably come this week. I got the Star Wars stickers though. Awesome!

Love ya!

Elder Dayley

Oct 27 -2

Hey Mom!

That is so crazy that the Newmans are already home!!!! I feel like it was yesterday that they left!!! Super cool the work they got to do, especially working with those who are inactive. It's a little sad to see how many people become inactive here in Taiwan. As of right now there are about 500 people in our ward boundary that are baptized, and only around 70 to 80 are active. So the Bishopric (coming down from higher authorities) have had us turning in names of people that literally cannot be found or contacted in anyway (I think it may be to pretty much reverse back the baptisms that happened because as sad as it is there were periods of time where baptisms were not as really as qualified as they should, well before my time on island).

So crazy that Robbie is going on a mission now too! These people I still feel all the time are so young and shouldn't be that old yet. But you are totally right about the church being worldwide. Even though everything of my church meetings I attend here in Taiwan are in Chinese, it is exactly the same as what it is like back in Alpine. There are exactly the same types of people. People are still not always on time or things start late. The stereotypical things about Elders, Relief Society, Bishopric and so forth are all the same over here. The Lord's kingdom! Oh yeah! That is what makes it so great about no matter where you go, it is still one great, big family.

You should definitely try and go to the Mo Tab concert. Elder Williams is jealous about the guest artist who played the voice of a character in Frozen performing with them.

I can't wait to see and here what you have prepared and what Allisa has prepared. Parts of me keep hoping that I don't move right before Christmas (there is a move call that literally happens a couple days before Christmas). That would not be as fun.

You know me though, anything that is Star Wars or cars is good enough for me. I don't think I mentioned I got a kids book that has tons of super cars in it with like a page description on (all in Chinese of course, but it has the Chinese bpmf next to it so I can read the characters I don't know and will be able to practice in the future).

Good luck with the studying. Whenever you get down and feel it is hard, say a prayer! Love you ltos and lots!

Elder Dayley

Oct 27

Hey Dad!

Well thanks about sending your thoughts and feelings on leadership. It will be much appreciated.

Oh man, I love that Zephyr is so much in to cars, trucks, and planes. Super super cool that he loved the car stunt show. You are such a good grandpa helping out the grandkids. I know Allisa appreciated a lot the time you spent and spend with them.

I know exactly what will happen when I get time to be with Zephyr and Sahara. I may or may not corrupt them, but I will start them off on the right foot with Star Wars and Top Gear ;) They will be taught well.

Sahara grows too fast and too much. Yes Sahara is such a princess. I can't believe she is going as a different princess each time over the past week. Elder Williams is proud and happy that she went as Elsa from Frozen. That really is a movie I want to see when I get back. So I know Sahara and I will probably end up watching it together. I don't think I ever mentioned but I got a couple movies here in Taiwan. One was simply for getting the Chinese Cover even though it isn't in Chinese (that is Tron Legacy, which has a super sick soundtrack because it is done by Daft Punk). Then other which I am super happy about because it is dubbed in English and Chinese is Wreck It Ralph. So I can't wait to go and watch it in Chinese.

Definitely it is true what you said about being leader. I have felt that at times about being DL. I have felt over the last several days that feeling of transitioning towards seeking more and more to be of service and seeking those who need serving and really taking to having more desire in the lives and work of the members of my district.

I hope mom is doing better! She is so strong!

Well a new investigator we have recently gotten is super cool. Our RC who is 15 and was baptized just before (literally the weekend before) I came to Taiping invited his friend to come to basketball on Saturday. We didn't have much time and sat down with a different investigator, but afterwards went to dinner together with our RC and his friend, but then had to take off quick to another lesson. But to our surprise our RC invited the friend to church the next day and then at the end of priesthood the RC came up and asked if we had time (which we had) and asked if we could sit down with his friend. So we had 3 young men sit in with us on our lesson and taught ZW the first lesson (which he accepted well), and extended a baptism goal for Nov. 22 (which he accepted). So he has been doing not too bad, making good friends in the ward, working at helping him to read and pray each day, and striving towards progressing to achieve his goal.

Definitely trying and doing to make each day fun. I won't lie I had a bit of a crash this past week, but it is the last one. There is a different feeling inside, and it is hard to describe but feels that I am not quite the same.

I love you lots and lots!

Elder Roo

Oct 20 -2

Hey Dad!

So yeah I told a little more in the other email. But yes you are right I have learned to smile. Something I just need to learn is to let go more and relax a bit more. Like you said have more fun. That's why I actually I really like the Frozen song Let It Go (Sahara would be so proud). It has a really good message for me.

You are so lucky as a Dad how much you get to see your kids as well as grandkids that often. I hope you see and understand how special a blessing that is (even if he did say Grandma). I can't wait to see them and go play with them next summer.

Wow you are right, there are only 5 more move calls. I really want to and will make them the most fun of any part of my mission. I really want to immerse that much more in the language. Besides what PMG says and so forth, do you have any other suggestions about how to really come to be in the language more? One of my goals before I come home is about changing myself to be and feel more comfortable, to be and feel more comfortable (like Cody is). At times I can be, other times I can't. So I am working to move the dial over to be all the time.

I am really happy that you and Mom have been having a stronger relationship. Keep working at it. You 2 are amazing and I don't care what has ever been said, you were meant for each other and this is exactly the family you and her were meant to have and to be apart of.

I will be good, I will be awesome, and I will love myself as much as others love me. Because I am a son of God. Because I am a missionary for Jesus Christ. Because I am a disciple of the Lord. Therefore I know that I can face and overcome my challenges. Because my trust is not in the arm of flesh, but in the Lord. That is something you always have taught me and impressed upon me. You have always been one of my greatest examples (behind Christ of course) and greatest heroes that although you have weaknesses and are not perfect, you have always been seeking to do what is right.

So question is how as you have been a leader now for a bit as EQP, how have you come to develop and build to becoming a strong leader, a servant to others, and developing greater love and charity?

Love you so much!

Elder Dayley

Oct 20

Hey Mom!

Pretty crazy huh?! 加油,加油! I miss you lots and lots though. Mom you have been such a stupendous example of your hard work, diligence, and enduring even through the hard times (even like right now, taking care of 3 weiner dogs, visiting Beehives, and helping out in choir as well as doing all your schooling). Sounds like though church was really really good! I'm sad I didn't get the chance to hear Cody's homecoming as well as hear Heather talk.

They are definitely right that prayer is such a powerful instrument and tool. I kid you not but my mission has taught me how to pray. Like to actually pray and seek so much more to talk and communicate with Heavenly Father. P Blickey shared with me this past week in interviews something that can better help me at this time, and it all revolves around my prayers. He talked about at night when I pray before laying my head down to rest is to talk with Heavenly Father and say I did my best. If I didn't do my best that day then tell Him I didn't do my best, then ponder and think for a minute or two of couple things (as well as be listening for the Spirit) to make the next day or the next week better so that it doesn't turn out like that again. He also talked about really taking time to listen at my prayers in the morning. Similarly ask Heavenly Father in the morning what can I do for Him that day. Then ponder and listen for a minute or two and then go and write down these impressions and go about to accomplish these goals throughout the day. President said that actually that morning he had an experience where he had quickly said his morning prayer then quickly got up and went into the bathroom. But then it bothered him and so he came back and knelt down again to think, ponder, and listen to the Spirit, and he received some few thoughts that he wrote down that he felt needed to happen that day.

You are exactly right! It is the matter of not despairing during the hard times. I am learning more and more right now about picking myself up and not reverting to punishing myself so much. But yeah like I said if I were to probably count it out and so forth I probably make anywhere from 40 to 50 prayers a day. Most often or not they are little small ones. But my really meaningful and end of the day prayers can sometimes be up to like 20 minutes or so. I told Elder Williams what you said about pinning me down. He said ok, although he also said he doesn't know exactly how to respond to that.

I can't wait to get the stickers! I am really excited! I have to start looking around a bit now for everyone's Christmas presents and slash birthday presents. I don't really know what to say or do for Sahara's birthday or Allaina's birthday. I will be thinking on it this week.

Mom thank you so much for all you say and all you do! I love you so much and couldn't ask for any other Mom. You are the best mom in the world. Good things are going to happen. I can feel it. An update, Elder Sumsion who was our AP has now stepped down to come open up again the 東英 Elders with another Elder from a different area. So that means my district just got bigger again that I have 2 Elder companionships to watch over and the sister training leaders. Being a leader has really taught me so much more and what I really wish to better work at becoming a better leader that I may better be a servant to others and those around me.

Love you lots and lots!

Elder Dayley

Oct 15

Hey Dad,

In all honesty I do not know exactly what to talk about.

The temple was good. It was a very much more peaceful and good place to sit in.

The reason I don't really know what to say is because of how much confliction is within me. Dad, I have never felt so attacked in my life as I have been being out here. And the biggest part that gets attacked and has been attacked is my hope and confidence. I have desire and wish to be out here, I just feel things have clouded in my mind somewhat that I don't fully grasp or understand what or why it is I want to be out here. I desire and want it to be because of the love and kindness to invite others unto Christ and not because it is simply the right thing to do or what others have said to do. I've seen myself become unto so on edge and parts and scared into sometimes all the obedience I need to be as a missionary. I remember when I was growing up more throughout all my teenage years I didn't ever really break rules or do anything out of order or bad because I just didn't want to get on a bad side or upset you or mom or make ashamed. I will say that sometimes I feel like I don't really remember what it is I enjoy or like or in parts really what my 'interests' are because I feel like I have had to beat so many things out of me or have to 'bid babylon farewell' because that is just not what you do as a missionary. I have felt and seen so much how it has become harder and more awkward around girls because I have been working, drilling, and overworrying/overstressing/ overworking about the keeping clean thoughts and also not being ok or so forth to talk or flirt with girls. Something interesting and good Elder Williams told me was really seeing girls as your sister. I have heard this before. But until I really started saying more and telling myself quite literally that they are my sister and seeing them in that light.

I seek and read over my patriarchal blessings many times. I read over so many different things. I come to points where I am about to break and I in a sense release out a lot of energy with a new commitment that I am not going to make the same mistakes again, I am going to improve and transform, and move forward. But what I can't quite understand is how the hope that it speaks and talks of doesn't quite fully stick.

I have something about me and I want to believe and do what you say to move forward and the past is in the past and so on and so forth, I just can't seem to come to grasps with moving forward because I feel I am a hypocrite and liar to move forward because of my mistakes and letting down and failing. See even looking back at this last sentence I see how entrenched the adversary and followers have come to carve in my mind. AGHHHHHH!!!! When I came on a mission I did not ever think this would be the stuff I would have to struggle through, face, and bear.

I will take to heart and mind what you shared about the JW and what Mom said. I pray and ask that Heavenly Father will help me to be worthy and ready at that time or right now to let the Spirit testify through me.

Which makes me think now to how I still have one aspect and part about the Atonement that I still don't have grasp and understanding about, and that is the power to move forward right now. As well as still trying to understand the enabling power that it gives beyond my own. I still get into feelings and thoughts of everything has to be done perfectly now, that by not doing everything or obedient to everything makes to be not good. I know the truth. I just need to see it really with my eyes and discern from the errors and lies.

DAD I AM SORRY. I AM SO SO SO SO SORRY. One thing Elder Williams keeps telling me all the time is that he finds happiness and joy and making up to him in improving, moving forward, and doing better. WHY DO I MAKE IT SO HARD FOR MYSELF? Where is the balm in Gilead?

I am going to fast today to tomorrow. I am going to pray as unceasingly as possible. I am going to really try to truly repent. To serve right now, move forward as best as I can. I want the peace that the Atonement offers. I am sick of all the natural man selfishness and self-centeredness it has from wanting all these cool things to tell about my mission, or saying I did this or wanted this. I really want to have a full heart to only desire loving and serving those around me. Like you said the greatest sages rendering service and turning away before even seeing the results and having satisfaction in that.

Well, I do love you Dad. Sorry for my bad example and stubborness and slow to learn and actually do. Something I felt impressed from the temple was 'go and do, even as I have'

Love ya,

Elder Dayley

Oct 13 -3

So last week yy from my first ward I was in came up to Taizhong. We got dinner together with some other Elders as well as he cut my hair so I now have a new dew. Also Z who we referred over to the Nantun Elders had his baptism after General Conference yesterday. Super super happy to see him get baptized. Elder Williams baptized him and I introduced him.

Love ya!

Elder Dayley

Oct 13 - 2

Oct 13

Also here is President's letter

Hey President!

So yeah as we talked last week, things are doing better. I will take to heart what you suggested to learn about and understand emotional self-reliance. I will work at applying and implementing this practice throughout my life and building greater and greater confidence in myself to seeing the joy and optimism each day. Something I look forward from Elder Klebingat's talk to learn a lot from.

This past week we have seen many miracles in the form of many, many more people who have been willing to listen, talk, and also start setting up to meet with us. It's been in parts a very much turn around from what has recently been happening. So I have lots more hope and faith to go forward knowing this is the Lord's work. I really wish to express so much of my gratitude for a loving Heavenly Father who constantly watches over me as well as everyone else. What a tremendous blessing it is, especially in all that he provides for us. One big thing being General Conference. What a power booster! I had answers received not just for myself but also for investigators I was pondering on as well as less actives. One part that really stood out to me was the mention of the sacrament, to not only look at it as a moment of redemption seeking and seeing all the mistakes or sins we made and then seeking forgiveness. But rather looking back to see throughout the week how the atonement had helped to enable me to do what was placed before me. To then go into the new week with greater hope.

p.s. Elder Williams and I saw the Meet the Mormons trailer and think it would be really cool if at some point in time the mission could see it. Like Elder Williams said, hopeful wishing

Love ya!

Elder Dayley

Also a quick note this whole week is going to be a power week. General Conference was amazing. I noticed my first conference on mission I had 15 pages of notes. My second conference about 19 pages. Then I blew it out of the water this time with 32 pages. I guess conference really touched me a lot. Wednesday we are going to the temple, which will be most welcome. And then Thursday we have interviews with president.

Love you so much!

Elder Dayley

Oct 13

Hey Dad!

Late night huh? I think in part as well that you wanted to talk. Things are doing better this week. President actually called and talked with me Saturday night because he had just seen my email I sent him last week, in large part also talking and asking for his counsel. One big thing he talked with me about is to think about and try to understand emotional self-reliance. We talked and he said I think you are doing well.. He also talked a little more about being perfect and said in his reply to email today straight up you are not perfect and that is ok. That is why we have the atonement.

Elder Williams and I just watched like all the trailer videos for Meet the Mormons. We really, really, really, really want to watch the movie!

Thanks for what you said in your email today though. One thing I come to realize quite bluntly is the confidence I need in myself. And that is why Elder Klebingat's talk stood out the most poignantly to me. I am printing the talk off to study over it more and the six points because I feel it was the answer I was needing for the questions I had going into conference.

Sometimes one of the hardest things I find and is difficult in my life is the whole aspect of forgiving and forgetting or in other sense moving forward and moving on. You know the whole analogy you used to talk about where you keep focused on and towards, about having a car going down a road and there are maybe some little rocks you see and you can fret over them, be consumed by them, waste time over them, or you can look up and look forward to all the other great things around and that are happening? You remember? That is something I am still at times having weakness in but improving upon. I really wish it could be super solid all up front. But it has to be built one block at a time. It can be pretty exhausting though. One thing I noted to Elder Williams today is how distracting, saddening, annoying, and quite frankly disgusting is how fake many Taiwanese girls make themselves out to be. There are many things they do to their own body that almost makes them to the extent of not feeling human exactly. It's kind of scary because one of the greatest defenses for myself is trying to always keep in mind we are all human, all children of God, all sons and daughters of heavenly parents, and when they do things to take away from that it makes all the effort work and such on my part that much harder. One of the weirdest and most things that takes away from being human is the contact lens they put in. Like they literally put different color contact lens in, or even lens that have a little sparkle in it (like what you see happens on an anime show that someones eyes sparkle) and it really makes it feel more inhuman than human.

But yeah. I am actually not going to fully get to replying to all today because I am going to the temple on Wednesday. So shorter email time today. Two things though is one: we are meeting with a Jehovah's Witness (since birth, his mom and dad were assigned to Taiwan as missionaries. His biggest thing is about figuring out if the Book of Mormon is the word of God or not. He has met with about 30 odd missionaries, and with the last set finally decided to try praying and said he got a peaceful answer and so forth saying the book simply cannot be true. So yeah...the other big thing is the whole difference between godhead stuff. Any advice or such you could pass along that will help with a Jehovah's Witness. We are meeting with him again on Friday). Second: when are you going to Florida in December. A member  in the ward I am serving at right now is going on his mission in December. He is serving in LA, but first goes to the Provo MTC. If I remember right he gets into Utah on December 16. But so point being, he mentioned about he somehow has to get down to the MTC from the airport. I thought about well we live half way between each, and I know you have a big old heart. So maybe you could help pick him up and drive him down to the MTC. Let me know if you are still going to be in Utah or not.

Love you lots!

Elder Dayley

October 5th Letter

Hey Dad!

Sincerely thank you for what you said. It's giving me much to think on and what I really need to do and not do. Poor Miko with getting stung by bees. Sorry this week email is not going to be exactly the best.

Super excited for the Star Wars Stickers! Besides that I really cannot think of anything i want for Christmas. I mean I really can't. There isn't anything I need at all right now. All is simply devoted to the work and serving others. So maybe hold off till I come home next year.

I love you Dad! I wouldn't want any other man to be my Dad! I am the most sincerely and humbly grateful for the family I have been born into. I love that it says in my patriarchal blessing that you are blessed in the family you are born in.

Love you!

Love mom as well! Sorry for not replying!

Elder Dayley

Letter September 28

Hey Dad!

That actually sounds like a good idea to maybe try for Elders. Also I would say try and do any other kind of simple activities as well. Maybe even try and get some more sports in there. Guys all like sports. And you are all not that old. So maybe golf, basketball, and so forth. Like here we play basketball twice a week. Once on Saturday more focusing on inviting investigators. Then on Monday morning from 6-7 for our exercise (this is just more the missionaries as well as some members). None of us are particularly good. But we just play to have fun and be with each other. So good luck with getting the Elders all more involved and getting more friendly.

It's interesting that the stress management book talks about specifically if something is bothering you to talk it out and let it out. If it is something that you don't want to talk about, then don't let it bother you. Yeah it can sometimes be a pain when your whole routine and comforts get disrupted, but that is what life sometimes is all about. How we learn, react, and grow.

So this is what I shared with President today. Actually kind of in response more to what you said as well about recognizing the Spirit. 

Hey President!

Well it's a new week and super excited for the next move call. This week had some good moments to help me formulate out strong plans of what I can do each day to work more effectively, with greater excitement, and more joy and happiness. I am looking forward to what Elder Williams and I can do to improve and accomplish in this coming move call. We have lots that we communicate to each other and what we are willing to help push and motivate each other to do.

I feel to simply share with you about this past week my studies. I really focused in Preach My Gospel this past week studying Chapter 1, really desiring to better understand what my purpose is. It's really helped to see how important it is to refer and talk about the Restoration, regardless of what background or religion they come from. Like you said as well, is having a love for the people. The love of God. Something that stood out to me and has progressed my Preach My Gospel study to its next phase was how much Chapter 1 talked about as well as to having the Spirit and its role and importance as a missionary right now. So I have begun studying Chapter 4 on recognizing the Spirit. It's really been impressed upon me that the beginning talks of needing to recognize and understand the Spirit. And that it states through diligent scripture study you come to better recognize and understand the Spirit. So that is my quest right now to more fully understand and recognize the Spirit. Because I cannot do this work on my own.

Love ya!

Elder Dayley

Z is liking and enjoying the Nantun ward as well. He hasn't had a baptism interview yet because President hasn't gotten a hold of him yet to set up a time to meet (probably because he is so busy). But he sounds like he is still doing really good. Brother A and Brother L are doing super awesome. They both got the priesthood yesterday. Brother L is super awesome about wanting to share the gospel and wanting to be involved in everything.

Yes I am watching Conference a week later. So don't you spoil anything for me! So I am watching it the 11th and 12th.

Love you lots and lots!

Elder Roo