Dad!
Hey there father, how art thou? I am good. Really good. The weather here has been surprisingly cold lately, nowhere near what it is back home but cold nonetheless. It rained the hardest I have ever seen here yesterday and on Faribourn's first day of driving ha.
The work is going great. We set a baptismal date for Liz Peddy, the 20th of this month. I am so happy for her and know that she is ready for baptism. I love sharing the gospel and when someone such as Liz grabs hold of it it makes it that much sweeter. The baby blessing was overwhelming. I never thought I would be so blessed to do that on my mission. The priesthood is so real and such a blessing. I don't know if I told you this but right when Elder Nelson blew out his knee he asked me to give him a blessing and in the blessing I remember saying that he would stay on his mission and finish strong. Normally missionaries would go home to get surgery but the Dr. said that he's ok for another few months, he goes home in March. What power the priesthood is. I have been studying D&C 121:34-46 a lot lately, woah is all I have to say.
I have a feeling that the house will be ready by Christmas. I still cannot believe that the house I left wont be the same one I come home to. Bowling time indeed, I was surprised to hear BYU got the Vegas bowl where'd TCU get invited to? The U will get beat big time by Alabama is my prediction. I can't believe that Texas got snubbed out of the National championship, what a crock. Apparently Pes. Obama is going to get a playoff system put in to college football... that'd be sweet haha, like he has say. Does he? Tickets to the Jazz game eh? Tell Coach Sloan I say hi. Speaking of basketball how are my Lakers doing? I hear they are tearing it up!
I love you Dad, you are a great man.
Love Elder Jarman
Thursday, December 11, 2008
I Am Really So Blessed To Be Out On The Lord's Errand
Mother Dearest,
Hey! My week was the best week of my mission I'd have to say. I have been praying a lot about what to do concerning Liz Peddy and it came to me that the invitation had to be made and with Elder Christensen, which was weird, so it just so happens that Saturday was our sheduled exchange day. We were so blessed to invite Liz to be baptized on 20 December and she accepted with the sweetest smile ever. I am so overjoyed for her. The following day, Sunday, I was able to bless Derek Ramos, the son of Jasmine Ramos a less active sister in the branch whom we just re activated. It was an overwhelming feeling blessing that baby. I wasn't nervous just really overcome by the reality of what was happening ha. The spirit was so strongly felt.
So sounds like things are busy back home. You let the girls know that I am not missing out on the work of moving y'all, we just moved in two families this past week so I am getting to do some of the same stuff you are.
My physical self is doing good. My haircuts have been better but that's because of you being the talented beautician you are, I usually just have one of the Elders get at my hair with a 3 or 4 haha. Keep me up to date about Abe's health condition, you know I love that man. He's such a good guy. I was thinking about that again, just how blessed I am, and Abe to me is one of those angels Elder Holland spoke about.
Mom I love you. I know that what I am doing is what I am suppose to be doing. At times I miss home more than others but I am really so blessed to be out on the Lord's errand. Tell everyone I love them
love Elder Jarman
Hey! My week was the best week of my mission I'd have to say. I have been praying a lot about what to do concerning Liz Peddy and it came to me that the invitation had to be made and with Elder Christensen, which was weird, so it just so happens that Saturday was our sheduled exchange day. We were so blessed to invite Liz to be baptized on 20 December and she accepted with the sweetest smile ever. I am so overjoyed for her. The following day, Sunday, I was able to bless Derek Ramos, the son of Jasmine Ramos a less active sister in the branch whom we just re activated. It was an overwhelming feeling blessing that baby. I wasn't nervous just really overcome by the reality of what was happening ha. The spirit was so strongly felt.
So sounds like things are busy back home. You let the girls know that I am not missing out on the work of moving y'all, we just moved in two families this past week so I am getting to do some of the same stuff you are.
My physical self is doing good. My haircuts have been better but that's because of you being the talented beautician you are, I usually just have one of the Elders get at my hair with a 3 or 4 haha. Keep me up to date about Abe's health condition, you know I love that man. He's such a good guy. I was thinking about that again, just how blessed I am, and Abe to me is one of those angels Elder Holland spoke about.
Mom I love you. I know that what I am doing is what I am suppose to be doing. At times I miss home more than others but I am really so blessed to be out on the Lord's errand. Tell everyone I love them
love Elder Jarman
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Incredible Blessings
Dad!
My thanksgiving was good, not great, but good. We were
unable to make it to the turkey bowl so our day did not
start off well, a member who we had arranged to take us
bailedout at 5 am the morning of. We ate turkey dinner
with the Padgett family and enjoyed that thoroughly. It
sounds as though y'alls thanksgiving was typically
sensational.
Thats good news that the house is still coming along,
slowly but surely right? Rome wasn't built in a day :)
Luke 21:19.
That was wonderful to hear about the ward fast! Bishop
Stice is truly a great man. I remember when we held one
of those previous to me leaving, the spirit was so strong.
Speaking of spiritually strong experiences we were able
and privileged to hear from M. Russell Ballard. What
insight and instruction he gave us. I took so many notes
haha. He came and spoke to all the Houston missions and I
was able to see and take pictures with Elder Brown in the
Houston mission. It was a nice little reunion.
Well this past week has been great to be honest. There was
bad and good I guess. The bad is that Elder Draper, my best
friend, broke his collar bone. He, as of this moment, is
staying out and will not get surgery but that could change.
Elder Nelson who tore his ACL will be finishing his mission!
That's good news. I knew he would. We have three progressing
investigators who are on the cusp of baptism and we were able
to reactivate two people last month. One of which is Jasmine
Ramos and she has asked that I bless her baby this coming fast
Sunday. I was honored and said of course. The blessings I am
receiving Dad are incredible. I at times don't feel as though
I deserve them. I have never prayed so much in my life. My
knees are calloused from the many prayers I have offered.
I would like to take the time to thank you for the time you
made for me while I was under your roof. I was thinking about
it and you didn't really ever have "time" to play catch with
me but you made it. I am so grateful for all you have done
do and will do for and in my behalf. Calling me Larry Rice
helped me to not accept anything but my best on the football
field I hope you know :)
I love you Dad.
Love Elder Jarman
It's All Gravy, Baby
To My Mom,
I was glad to read that your thanksgiving was great! I am sure that y'all had a ton of food and good times. My thanksgiving was alright. I didn't get to play football due to the fact that our ride cancelled but it's all gravy baby. We had a nice dinner with the Padgett's and that was that. I hadn't heard that about Elder Wirthlin thank you for the knowledge. He really was a great man. I loved his last two talks on laughing and looking after the one. Two of my all time favorite talks. He will be missed. I was actually thinking about Todd this week. I remember this one time he took me to a Jazz game and we sat there and watched the game and drove home and not much was said but I knew he loved me. That goes for all my relatives. They don't even have to say much and I know they love me. It's truly a blessing to have come from the family I came from. Some of these situations people are in are so sad. I am feeling really good about things here mom. The work is going great. I am blessing a baby on Sunday! We've activated a few people and we have a couple baptisms in the near future. My companion is great. He's hard to read at times but I learn something new with each companion on how to treat and react to people. The weather has been a little chilly thanks to the wind chill but Ali got me this vest that keeps me nice and warm so I am thankful for that. I love you mom. I am grateful for the time we were able to spend together prior to me coming out on my mission. I wouldn't have had it any other way.
Elder Jarman loves you :)
I was glad to read that your thanksgiving was great! I am sure that y'all had a ton of food and good times. My thanksgiving was alright. I didn't get to play football due to the fact that our ride cancelled but it's all gravy baby. We had a nice dinner with the Padgett's and that was that. I hadn't heard that about Elder Wirthlin thank you for the knowledge. He really was a great man. I loved his last two talks on laughing and looking after the one. Two of my all time favorite talks. He will be missed. I was actually thinking about Todd this week. I remember this one time he took me to a Jazz game and we sat there and watched the game and drove home and not much was said but I knew he loved me. That goes for all my relatives. They don't even have to say much and I know they love me. It's truly a blessing to have come from the family I came from. Some of these situations people are in are so sad. I am feeling really good about things here mom. The work is going great. I am blessing a baby on Sunday! We've activated a few people and we have a couple baptisms in the near future. My companion is great. He's hard to read at times but I learn something new with each companion on how to treat and react to people. The weather has been a little chilly thanks to the wind chill but Ali got me this vest that keeps me nice and warm so I am thankful for that. I love you mom. I am grateful for the time we were able to spend together prior to me coming out on my mission. I wouldn't have had it any other way.
Elder Jarman loves you :)
Monday, December 1, 2008
I Had A Great Birthday
Mom!
Hey! I had a great birthday. It went very well. The 21st Elder Nelson came on exchanges with us and spent the night into the 22nd with us so at midnight we opened my package from Ali and had quite the laugh fest, like we always do. So it started the day off just right. I got so many good looking ties from y'all! I loved all of them seriously. Oh! The family we re activated the Waters not only have a hobby of photo shoots but cake making as well so I got a beautifully done cake from them. I still haven't eaten it cause it's so extravagent. The dinner at the Padgetts was awesome, they are such a wonderful family. We are actually eating Thanksgiving dinner with them too haha. We will probably make a couple stops along the way there. The morning of T Day we are having a huge football game pitting us against the Orange zone, with Nelson out it'll be a challenge, but doable. With how fat I am I usually just sit on the sidelines and eat fried chicken but I think for this one I will play :) I love you and am so thankful for the friendship I have with you mom. Love Warner
PS remember how every song on arrow 103.5 was sung by styxx according to you haha.
Hey! I had a great birthday. It went very well. The 21st Elder Nelson came on exchanges with us and spent the night into the 22nd with us so at midnight we opened my package from Ali and had quite the laugh fest, like we always do. So it started the day off just right. I got so many good looking ties from y'all! I loved all of them seriously. Oh! The family we re activated the Waters not only have a hobby of photo shoots but cake making as well so I got a beautifully done cake from them. I still haven't eaten it cause it's so extravagent. The dinner at the Padgetts was awesome, they are such a wonderful family. We are actually eating Thanksgiving dinner with them too haha. We will probably make a couple stops along the way there. The morning of T Day we are having a huge football game pitting us against the Orange zone, with Nelson out it'll be a challenge, but doable. With how fat I am I usually just sit on the sidelines and eat fried chicken but I think for this one I will play :) I love you and am so thankful for the friendship I have with you mom. Love Warner
PS remember how every song on arrow 103.5 was sung by styxx according to you haha.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Plans For My Birthday...
Mom.
You barely made it, but you made it, phewf. You are quite welcome for the "tribute" haha. Elder Draper and I believe Elder Nelson both sent you letters. Those two guys are top notch. It sounds like a lovely birthday you had. I can't see pictures in the lab here in Jasper but I am certain that the light fixture is quality, you have such good taste. haha, oh mama, I love you. Plans for my birthday... Elder Nelson, who is now my Zone Leader, is coming on exchanges with us. We'll probably go to DQ or something ha. That's about it. haha. Jasper is going good. We have a few new investigators indeed. The most promising ones are friends of members. The West's progression is all on the father Alton. Hopefully he comes around. Willie Isom is going to the Marshall Islands! WOah! That is so awesome. He probably just entered in the MTC as I write this. What a good kid that Isom boy is. I enjoyed both him and Andy's company on the baseball team. Good kids. I for sure wanna see Jesse's wedding announcement. He is bound to have an awesome one that's for true. Mom I wear my retainers every night, ask Fairbourn! My teeth are noticably different though, I don't know what to do about it... I love you and miss you dearly. I missed you a lot yesterday. I daresay I was homesick... good thing it's not terminal... yet aren't we all terminal as soon as we come into this world? I suppose we are. Anyway... haha. I love you.
Elder Jarman
You barely made it, but you made it, phewf. You are quite welcome for the "tribute" haha. Elder Draper and I believe Elder Nelson both sent you letters. Those two guys are top notch. It sounds like a lovely birthday you had. I can't see pictures in the lab here in Jasper but I am certain that the light fixture is quality, you have such good taste. haha, oh mama, I love you. Plans for my birthday... Elder Nelson, who is now my Zone Leader, is coming on exchanges with us. We'll probably go to DQ or something ha. That's about it. haha. Jasper is going good. We have a few new investigators indeed. The most promising ones are friends of members. The West's progression is all on the father Alton. Hopefully he comes around. Willie Isom is going to the Marshall Islands! WOah! That is so awesome. He probably just entered in the MTC as I write this. What a good kid that Isom boy is. I enjoyed both him and Andy's company on the baseball team. Good kids. I for sure wanna see Jesse's wedding announcement. He is bound to have an awesome one that's for true. Mom I wear my retainers every night, ask Fairbourn! My teeth are noticably different though, I don't know what to do about it... I love you and miss you dearly. I missed you a lot yesterday. I daresay I was homesick... good thing it's not terminal... yet aren't we all terminal as soon as we come into this world? I suppose we are. Anyway... haha. I love you.
Elder Jarman
I Don't Want To Give Crappy Emails
Hey mamamamamamama,
What's goin' on?! Do I have any requests... Ummm really I don't know anything I would need. I can't believe it's almost my birthday already... weird. I guess I'll get back to you on it? If I don't, don't feel obligated to get me anything. So Louisa did just as I thought she would! I loved hearing about her talk experience and what a good talk subject she chose. thank you for the compliments you always give me mom. They mean a lot. That's something you always did for me growing up was compliment me, even on small things, and laughed at me, I loved that. Thank you so much. What are some things that I can do better on my emails? I feel like I just answer questions so when I don't get asked stuff I give bland emails. I don't want to give crappy emails. I love you. Love Elder Jarman
What's goin' on?! Do I have any requests... Ummm really I don't know anything I would need. I can't believe it's almost my birthday already... weird. I guess I'll get back to you on it? If I don't, don't feel obligated to get me anything. So Louisa did just as I thought she would! I loved hearing about her talk experience and what a good talk subject she chose. thank you for the compliments you always give me mom. They mean a lot. That's something you always did for me growing up was compliment me, even on small things, and laughed at me, I loved that. Thank you so much. What are some things that I can do better on my emails? I feel like I just answer questions so when I don't get asked stuff I give bland emails. I don't want to give crappy emails. I love you. Love Elder Jarman
Jesus Christ Wants Nothing More Than For Us To Have Eternal Happiness
Dad!
You are very welcome for the birthday letter. I am glad that you got it in time for your big day. Elder Fairbourn is doing great! He is an incredible young missionary with so much potential. The ropes are indeed still being taught but the information he is retaining is incredible. I am very excited to continue our work together. One thing I have done is tried to make him feel an equal with me. I feel that as I do this the unity of our companionship will be strengthened. He is very receptive to constructive criticism and loves to learn. Yesterday we had the opportunity to attend the temple and what an amazing experience it was. I love the temple and am so grateful for all those times I was able go with Grandpa Jarman. Each time I go I read 3John: 4 while waiting to go to a session, thanks to Grandpa Jarman. I have read and pondered and prayed about John 17 a lot this past week and to be honest I keep being led to a 17th chapter in a different book, that is 3 Nephi. I felt feelings of humility and love while reading both chapters however, and how could one not? To know that the Savior of the world said those words about anyone is awe inspiring. He is praying in our behalf and so that we could be glorified. I absolutely love John 17:13 and how he asks that their joy may be as his. Jesus Christ wants nothing more than for us to have eternal happiness. He did everything for us to obtain such a gift, literally. The atonement of Jesus Christ is the most heroic and selfless act the worlds have ever known. I love in 3 Nephi 17 when Jesus, a now resurrected being, in a language that cannot even be written, prays for the people. I especially loved reading that our Saviors joy was full because of such people. I want to be one of those people. That's my life's goal and mission. Good luck with your talk! I hope something of what I said helped in one way or another.
I love you!Elder Jarman
You are very welcome for the birthday letter. I am glad that you got it in time for your big day. Elder Fairbourn is doing great! He is an incredible young missionary with so much potential. The ropes are indeed still being taught but the information he is retaining is incredible. I am very excited to continue our work together. One thing I have done is tried to make him feel an equal with me. I feel that as I do this the unity of our companionship will be strengthened. He is very receptive to constructive criticism and loves to learn. Yesterday we had the opportunity to attend the temple and what an amazing experience it was. I love the temple and am so grateful for all those times I was able go with Grandpa Jarman. Each time I go I read 3John: 4 while waiting to go to a session, thanks to Grandpa Jarman. I have read and pondered and prayed about John 17 a lot this past week and to be honest I keep being led to a 17th chapter in a different book, that is 3 Nephi. I felt feelings of humility and love while reading both chapters however, and how could one not? To know that the Savior of the world said those words about anyone is awe inspiring. He is praying in our behalf and so that we could be glorified. I absolutely love John 17:13 and how he asks that their joy may be as his. Jesus Christ wants nothing more than for us to have eternal happiness. He did everything for us to obtain such a gift, literally. The atonement of Jesus Christ is the most heroic and selfless act the worlds have ever known. I love in 3 Nephi 17 when Jesus, a now resurrected being, in a language that cannot even be written, prays for the people. I especially loved reading that our Saviors joy was full because of such people. I want to be one of those people. That's my life's goal and mission. Good luck with your talk! I hope something of what I said helped in one way or another.
I love you!Elder Jarman
I Am The Missionary You Think I Am, Mom
Mom!
Hey! I love you!
President Moldenhauer is such an amazing man. He is the most kind and loving person and just perfect for what he is doing. I was greatly honored and humbled to be called as a trainer and district leader. I am the missionary you think I am mom. Thank you for the congratulations. I promise I will be giving my best effort. Thanks for Kiefers address i bet he's having a hard time, ill write him this week. I don't have much time but I just want you to know that I loved the photos y'all sent me. You and Dad are some good lookin' people! :) Tell everyone hi for me. I hope you got my parcel I sent... Love you Elder Jarman
Hey mama! So my email has been being really lame lately and didn't send the message I wrote you last week, sorry! It's the message above though so you got it! ha. I am very glad that you got the pictures that I sent. I hoped you would have liked them. It sounds like it was quite the adventure to vote haha, gosh. I am so glad the election is over though. That sounds like a fun trip you and dad will be making this weekend. I love Park City! Oh before I forget let me tell you my new companero's name is Elder Fairbourn. Hes from Taylorsville and is super super quiet. It's weird going from Diggy who told me everything to Fairbourn. Yet another piece of evidence that we have a Father in Heaven, no two people are the same, at all. How else could that be except that there is a God? I will be praying for Louisa that's for certain. That is so brave of her to accept the call. she'll do great. The district leading is coming along. It's different and the mantle of responsibility is very apparent but I can handle it, I just need to know who to have trust in and that is our Heavenly Father. No baptism dates, which can be discouraging but each day brings new hope. My Halloween was amazing. We heard from Elder Callister of the seventy. He looks and sounds like Clint Eastwood just to paint a picture. He really spoke on things that I needed to hear. Since I was called as a district leader I was able to attend a special meeting just for the leadership of the mission, it was quite intense to say the least. We can do better. We will do better. He spoke on being more bold, taking control of our lives, and told us some great and inspiring stories. The organization of our church is perfect. I carved a skull and cross bones pumpkin too! Haha. I better see some photos. That is so crazy that Ben has his release date already... It goes by so fast! I can't believe it. Thank you so much for your dear testimony mom. I love you and the example of charity you are to me and the world. I hope you have a wonderful day! Love Elder Jarman
Hey! I love you!
President Moldenhauer is such an amazing man. He is the most kind and loving person and just perfect for what he is doing. I was greatly honored and humbled to be called as a trainer and district leader. I am the missionary you think I am mom. Thank you for the congratulations. I promise I will be giving my best effort. Thanks for Kiefers address i bet he's having a hard time, ill write him this week. I don't have much time but I just want you to know that I loved the photos y'all sent me. You and Dad are some good lookin' people! :) Tell everyone hi for me. I hope you got my parcel I sent... Love you Elder Jarman
Hey mama! So my email has been being really lame lately and didn't send the message I wrote you last week, sorry! It's the message above though so you got it! ha. I am very glad that you got the pictures that I sent. I hoped you would have liked them. It sounds like it was quite the adventure to vote haha, gosh. I am so glad the election is over though. That sounds like a fun trip you and dad will be making this weekend. I love Park City! Oh before I forget let me tell you my new companero's name is Elder Fairbourn. Hes from Taylorsville and is super super quiet. It's weird going from Diggy who told me everything to Fairbourn. Yet another piece of evidence that we have a Father in Heaven, no two people are the same, at all. How else could that be except that there is a God? I will be praying for Louisa that's for certain. That is so brave of her to accept the call. she'll do great. The district leading is coming along. It's different and the mantle of responsibility is very apparent but I can handle it, I just need to know who to have trust in and that is our Heavenly Father. No baptism dates, which can be discouraging but each day brings new hope. My Halloween was amazing. We heard from Elder Callister of the seventy. He looks and sounds like Clint Eastwood just to paint a picture. He really spoke on things that I needed to hear. Since I was called as a district leader I was able to attend a special meeting just for the leadership of the mission, it was quite intense to say the least. We can do better. We will do better. He spoke on being more bold, taking control of our lives, and told us some great and inspiring stories. The organization of our church is perfect. I carved a skull and cross bones pumpkin too! Haha. I better see some photos. That is so crazy that Ben has his release date already... It goes by so fast! I can't believe it. Thank you so much for your dear testimony mom. I love you and the example of charity you are to me and the world. I hope you have a wonderful day! Love Elder Jarman
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
I Always Keep My Chin Up
Mama,
How are you doing?! It feels like its been forever since I last saw you... oh wait it has. Isn't that weird? I miss you if you ever wonder, I just don't get caught up in it though ya know? I always tell people I am the biggest mama's boy ever, key word am, meaning I am still ha. I love you mom. I had heard that the house is coming along, thats exciting! I did hear about Chris and from him actually. He is doing good and was back to his old jokin' self, man I love that kid. That was so sad about Brother Walters. My prayers are with his family. Todd and Emilee at it again, thats awesome. Tell them congrats for me. I always keep my chin up mama! No need to worry. I love you dearly. The pants fit so good by the way! Thank you again! Also that Hawaii t shirt is so nice, I love it. Thank you thank you. I am so grateful for the sacrifices you have made are making and will make for me mom. I love you so much. You are the best!
Love Elder Jarman
How are you doing?! It feels like its been forever since I last saw you... oh wait it has. Isn't that weird? I miss you if you ever wonder, I just don't get caught up in it though ya know? I always tell people I am the biggest mama's boy ever, key word am, meaning I am still ha. I love you mom. I had heard that the house is coming along, thats exciting! I did hear about Chris and from him actually. He is doing good and was back to his old jokin' self, man I love that kid. That was so sad about Brother Walters. My prayers are with his family. Todd and Emilee at it again, thats awesome. Tell them congrats for me. I always keep my chin up mama! No need to worry. I love you dearly. The pants fit so good by the way! Thank you again! Also that Hawaii t shirt is so nice, I love it. Thank you thank you. I am so grateful for the sacrifices you have made are making and will make for me mom. I love you so much. You are the best!
Love Elder Jarman
I Love the Country Folk
Hey Dad,
Ya know, Wednesday is a happy day, thank you for saying that. I too always feel good after reading your emails. Ugh the West family still has not accepted the invitation to be baptized BUT we are not losing faith. They are having a hard time grasping hold of the authority bit. They will come around though. Alton (the dad) is making huge progress. We had the family over at the McDaniel home for dinner monday and Alton came! That is such a miracle! He is very shy and at first if you recall would just stay in his room while we would visit. Now he's coming to members homes to eat and talk about the gospel... It's wonderful. We will be seeing them again and again and will continue to pray they will accept the baptism invitation. In all honesty I hope I stay, I mean I will be fine if I get moved but I would love to stay. I have such a connection with the members here in Jasper. They are such great people. I love the country folk ha. Leaving an area is so hard, it really is. I don't want to have to say goodbye to all these wonderful people. I did hear about Chris and I indeed told him you said hi. He told me the in depth story and oh man would that be intense. I am just glad he's alright. What a stallion that one is ha. My deepest sympathy goes out to the Walters family. That was so sad to hear about but what a blessing the gospel is in our lives to know about what comes next. I cannot imagine how hard that must have been for Randy, I know I would definitely be shaken. It sounds like the Fall break was wondeful. Dad you are the perfect example of what a father should be. You really are. I was describing to Diggy how you always took time to play catch with me for hours on end and it hit me, once again, just how amazing a father you are. Thank you so much for all the sacrifices you and mom make for me and the kids. I love you for that. It's all good and under the hood that the pictures didn't get sent. I am working on my patience this week and so I am actually quite grateful for the delay. That's great to hear the house is moving forward! I am excited to see photographic evidence haha. What a birthday present that will be for mom. John 17 eh? I will be reading that for sure. Any meaningful scriptures lately? I have actually. A lot. The first would have to be 2 Nephi 4:26-35. Ali actually shared these verses with me and I really needed to read them. Also 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. Really the most meaningful scripture to me lately has been my patriarchal blessing. I read it every morning and have been disecting it very delicately lately. What an incredible document to have in my life. I also have loved 1 Nephi 19:9 and Alma 11:40. Just to name a few. Life is beautiful. I am so happy right now. I love you and am again grateful for your example to me of what a father and man should be.
Love Elder Jarman
Ya know, Wednesday is a happy day, thank you for saying that. I too always feel good after reading your emails. Ugh the West family still has not accepted the invitation to be baptized BUT we are not losing faith. They are having a hard time grasping hold of the authority bit. They will come around though. Alton (the dad) is making huge progress. We had the family over at the McDaniel home for dinner monday and Alton came! That is such a miracle! He is very shy and at first if you recall would just stay in his room while we would visit. Now he's coming to members homes to eat and talk about the gospel... It's wonderful. We will be seeing them again and again and will continue to pray they will accept the baptism invitation. In all honesty I hope I stay, I mean I will be fine if I get moved but I would love to stay. I have such a connection with the members here in Jasper. They are such great people. I love the country folk ha. Leaving an area is so hard, it really is. I don't want to have to say goodbye to all these wonderful people. I did hear about Chris and I indeed told him you said hi. He told me the in depth story and oh man would that be intense. I am just glad he's alright. What a stallion that one is ha. My deepest sympathy goes out to the Walters family. That was so sad to hear about but what a blessing the gospel is in our lives to know about what comes next. I cannot imagine how hard that must have been for Randy, I know I would definitely be shaken. It sounds like the Fall break was wondeful. Dad you are the perfect example of what a father should be. You really are. I was describing to Diggy how you always took time to play catch with me for hours on end and it hit me, once again, just how amazing a father you are. Thank you so much for all the sacrifices you and mom make for me and the kids. I love you for that. It's all good and under the hood that the pictures didn't get sent. I am working on my patience this week and so I am actually quite grateful for the delay. That's great to hear the house is moving forward! I am excited to see photographic evidence haha. What a birthday present that will be for mom. John 17 eh? I will be reading that for sure. Any meaningful scriptures lately? I have actually. A lot. The first would have to be 2 Nephi 4:26-35. Ali actually shared these verses with me and I really needed to read them. Also 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. Really the most meaningful scripture to me lately has been my patriarchal blessing. I read it every morning and have been disecting it very delicately lately. What an incredible document to have in my life. I also have loved 1 Nephi 19:9 and Alma 11:40. Just to name a few. Life is beautiful. I am so happy right now. I love you and am again grateful for your example to me of what a father and man should be.
Love Elder Jarman
Friday, October 17, 2008
Pants Is Such A Wierd Word
Mom!~ Hey mama!
So I did get the package with ties and pants inside, thank you so much. You have no idea what that means to me. I really am so blessed to have you as my mother. The pants fit! Ha. They are snug but they fit and that's what matters. I was so hoping you'd send my green paisley tie and you did, score! Thanks so much. I hope I don't ask for too much, I dont want to be a nag. I have done a lot better budgeting my money except for when the hurricane hit I ran out of MSF pretty quick and resorted to my home card, sorry. I only use it if I absolutely have to. The work is just starting to pick up. Our Zone Leaders, Elder Mcreavy and Wilson are amazing and we are implementing their vision for the Beaumont zone of 5 focus families to help the work progress. We are seeing the results of obedience and hard work. The members are starting to catch the missionary bug and it's great. The West family is still progressing and its an amazing sight. A miracle happened this last visit the father sat in on a discussion, and referred us his mother. He is a very staunch baptist but he's slowly opening his heart up to us. It's wonderful mom. My optimistic attitude I have is all thanks to you and dad. You have no idea how thankful I am for you both. This transfer has been hard I am not going to lie but it's been the most rewarding as well. The Zone leaders have been really good to me and Diggy especially and have made a great impact on my mission. There are these two sweet ladies in Jasper Pat and Granny, PAt is a member and 58 and Granny (Shirley) is in her 80's and not a member. Granny is PAt's mom, anyway, they are so sweet. Last night Granny was having an anxiety attack so she called us and we just talked to her. What a blessing it was. I love old people. I feel as though I took them for granted prior to my mission and i feel bad about that. Tell grandma Knell I love her and that I am praying for her. I love you mom. Thanks again for the pants! You make me happy!
Love Elder Jarman
So I did get the package with ties and pants inside, thank you so much. You have no idea what that means to me. I really am so blessed to have you as my mother. The pants fit! Ha. They are snug but they fit and that's what matters. I was so hoping you'd send my green paisley tie and you did, score! Thanks so much. I hope I don't ask for too much, I dont want to be a nag. I have done a lot better budgeting my money except for when the hurricane hit I ran out of MSF pretty quick and resorted to my home card, sorry. I only use it if I absolutely have to. The work is just starting to pick up. Our Zone Leaders, Elder Mcreavy and Wilson are amazing and we are implementing their vision for the Beaumont zone of 5 focus families to help the work progress. We are seeing the results of obedience and hard work. The members are starting to catch the missionary bug and it's great. The West family is still progressing and its an amazing sight. A miracle happened this last visit the father sat in on a discussion, and referred us his mother. He is a very staunch baptist but he's slowly opening his heart up to us. It's wonderful mom. My optimistic attitude I have is all thanks to you and dad. You have no idea how thankful I am for you both. This transfer has been hard I am not going to lie but it's been the most rewarding as well. The Zone leaders have been really good to me and Diggy especially and have made a great impact on my mission. There are these two sweet ladies in Jasper Pat and Granny, PAt is a member and 58 and Granny (Shirley) is in her 80's and not a member. Granny is PAt's mom, anyway, they are so sweet. Last night Granny was having an anxiety attack so she called us and we just talked to her. What a blessing it was. I love old people. I feel as though I took them for granted prior to my mission and i feel bad about that. Tell grandma Knell I love her and that I am praying for her. I love you mom. Thanks again for the pants! You make me happy!
Love Elder Jarman
The Gospel Is So Powerful
Mother Dearest,
You have no idea how overjoyed I am hearing that Cait is having a girl! February 26th... oh that is so exciting! It sounds like everyone is having a baby my goodness. Conference was so amazing. It's a totally different experience for me on the mission. I love it. My favorite talks were Elder Wirthlin, Elder Holland, and Pres. Monson's on change. I took like 20 pages of notes haha. I am so thankful that you and dad set the example to us growing up of the importance of conference. Its something I will do with my children one day too. With the whole pants dealio I just mean the ones you can find in the house. I swear I had more than just the pinstriped ones... oh and don't forget to send the ties I had too. Thank you for grandma Knell's and Abes addresses. I had a little mishap happen the other day while driving. I was going 77 in what I thought was a 75 but turns out at 7 pm the 75 turns into a 65... I was pulled over by a Texas State Trooper and now I have a $165 ticket to pay by the 15th... I am so sorry. You'd be happy to know that I taught him about missions and a condensed version of the restoration though, and left him with a pamphlet. Again, sorry. I have the worst luck in cars it seems. The West family is progressing. We actually might get them baptized come the end of October! That's the plan as of now but we'll see. I am just so happy seeing them more united and loving as a family. The gospel is so powerful and can heal any wound. the father Alton has opened up SO much and gave us a refferal even! That was a shock. So things are going great with them. I love you and pray for you daily.
Your Son Elder Jarman
You have no idea how overjoyed I am hearing that Cait is having a girl! February 26th... oh that is so exciting! It sounds like everyone is having a baby my goodness. Conference was so amazing. It's a totally different experience for me on the mission. I love it. My favorite talks were Elder Wirthlin, Elder Holland, and Pres. Monson's on change. I took like 20 pages of notes haha. I am so thankful that you and dad set the example to us growing up of the importance of conference. Its something I will do with my children one day too. With the whole pants dealio I just mean the ones you can find in the house. I swear I had more than just the pinstriped ones... oh and don't forget to send the ties I had too. Thank you for grandma Knell's and Abes addresses. I had a little mishap happen the other day while driving. I was going 77 in what I thought was a 75 but turns out at 7 pm the 75 turns into a 65... I was pulled over by a Texas State Trooper and now I have a $165 ticket to pay by the 15th... I am so sorry. You'd be happy to know that I taught him about missions and a condensed version of the restoration though, and left him with a pamphlet. Again, sorry. I have the worst luck in cars it seems. The West family is progressing. We actually might get them baptized come the end of October! That's the plan as of now but we'll see. I am just so happy seeing them more united and loving as a family. The gospel is so powerful and can heal any wound. the father Alton has opened up SO much and gave us a refferal even! That was a shock. So things are going great with them. I love you and pray for you daily.
Your Son Elder Jarman
I Love Service
Mama!
I bet that was a good time to have Cait in town. She's so cool. How did Danny do this time around? Ya'll are going to be at Grandma Knells eh? What's her address by the way, I have been wanting to send her a letter for a time or two. You best be sending pictures soon, it's been a while! haha. But for real. 11 years ago you had a baby girl. Olivia Jarman. She's your daughter, my sister and she loves us, the whole family. I have had a lot of tender moments to ponder about her and what she is like. I imagine she's beautiful just like her brother Warner (hahahahaha totalllllly joking) I bet she's funny, smart, and proud of her mom. I know that she is in the Celestial Kingdom and that she smiles more than any of us. Joseph Smith talked a great deal about infants that die before accountability and of them he said that they were too pure to experience this awful world or something to that affect. Mom you gave birth to a girl who was talked about by a prophet of God. That's so humbling to me. I love you and you are right we do have a great family. The service rendered has been an amazing experience for me Mom. Carlos Amado of the Seventy said in the April Conference that when we serve we better understand the personality and attributes of God. What a powerful and profound statement. I love service. To be able to serve for 2 years... wow. I am personally representing my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This brings me low. I often talk about the humbling experiences I have but it's true and I hope it does not lose meaning to you of the word. I have been humbled. Life is beautiful.
Love your Boy
Elder Jarman
I bet that was a good time to have Cait in town. She's so cool. How did Danny do this time around? Ya'll are going to be at Grandma Knells eh? What's her address by the way, I have been wanting to send her a letter for a time or two. You best be sending pictures soon, it's been a while! haha. But for real. 11 years ago you had a baby girl. Olivia Jarman. She's your daughter, my sister and she loves us, the whole family. I have had a lot of tender moments to ponder about her and what she is like. I imagine she's beautiful just like her brother Warner (hahahahaha totalllllly joking) I bet she's funny, smart, and proud of her mom. I know that she is in the Celestial Kingdom and that she smiles more than any of us. Joseph Smith talked a great deal about infants that die before accountability and of them he said that they were too pure to experience this awful world or something to that affect. Mom you gave birth to a girl who was talked about by a prophet of God. That's so humbling to me. I love you and you are right we do have a great family. The service rendered has been an amazing experience for me Mom. Carlos Amado of the Seventy said in the April Conference that when we serve we better understand the personality and attributes of God. What a powerful and profound statement. I love service. To be able to serve for 2 years... wow. I am personally representing my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This brings me low. I often talk about the humbling experiences I have but it's true and I hope it does not lose meaning to you of the word. I have been humbled. Life is beautiful.
Love your Boy
Elder Jarman
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Called To Serve
Hey Mom,
I have enjoyed to hear about your wonderful time in Hawaii! You two deserved that vacation. It really is quite beautiful, Heavenly Father is an amazing artist :)
So Cait has a belly now does she? I'll believe it when I see it ha. When is the gender to be known? I am probably more excited than anyone just to let you know. The clean up goes well Mom. We have been in a Helping Hands bright yellow t shirts and jeans the last few weeks which has been very odd. I am going through withdrawls I swear from not wearing proselyting clothes ha. To be able to help has been such a blessing though and truly a humbling experience. I kept thinking as I was tearing water logged moldy sheet rock out of a home "What if this was my house?" Oh what a tragedy that would be. Lots of these people were just getting their homes fixed from Rita and now Ike just spoils all that progression. To go back in time a bit these past two Sundays have been two of the best of my life. The first one, on the 14th was held in Woodville. It consisted of Elder Salisbury, Elder Warren, Elder McReavy, Elder Wilson, Elder Digerness, and me. We got special permission to hold the meeting from the Branch President in Woodville. With no power in the building we partook of the sacrament in the brightest room we could find. That renewal of my baptismal covenants was such an experience. I never really had understood how important and lovely that is until now. We each picked a scripture and a hymn and then bore our testimonies. Not a dry eye could be seen. The spirit was so strong as these six 19 and 20 year old boys shared their feelings about this gospel. I shared 2 Nephi 33:10-12 and hymn 136 I know that My Redeemer Lives. The next Sunday, the 21st, was very unique in the fact that only about 6 or 8 people were in Sunday attire. The congregation was yellow shirts and jeans. We had a work party that day and to look across the chapel at all the men and women from the area that were willing to help aid these poeple was a beautiful sight. How great is my calling. That's not all that made last Sunday one to remember. The West's came to church, but in Jasper. Ha. We were in Beaumont and they were in Jasper but to know that our church is the same everywhere was such a comfort. Kim West the member and mother was accompanied by three of her non member children and they enjoyed it too. We have kept close with them via phone over the course of Ike and have an appointment coming up this week at their home in Brookeland. Elder Digerness has made so much progress Mom. It was a particular blessing indeed when he told me that no other missionary could have helped him like I did. I am so blessed to have a companion who pushes me in more aspects than one. Diggy is a great missionary who I am very fortunate to help out and also be helped out by him. Mom I am so happy right now. More than ever I realize the importance of a mission. It has been and will be, until I am married and have kids, the best thing I have ever done. Missions are like a filter of goodness, a mid life fine tuning if you will. It may be a two year experience but it's a lesson that lasts a lifetime. I am very blessed to have a family that supports and loves me the way ya'll do. I am especially blessed to be your son. Mom I love you.
Elder Jarman
I have enjoyed to hear about your wonderful time in Hawaii! You two deserved that vacation. It really is quite beautiful, Heavenly Father is an amazing artist :)
So Cait has a belly now does she? I'll believe it when I see it ha. When is the gender to be known? I am probably more excited than anyone just to let you know. The clean up goes well Mom. We have been in a Helping Hands bright yellow t shirts and jeans the last few weeks which has been very odd. I am going through withdrawls I swear from not wearing proselyting clothes ha. To be able to help has been such a blessing though and truly a humbling experience. I kept thinking as I was tearing water logged moldy sheet rock out of a home "What if this was my house?" Oh what a tragedy that would be. Lots of these people were just getting their homes fixed from Rita and now Ike just spoils all that progression. To go back in time a bit these past two Sundays have been two of the best of my life. The first one, on the 14th was held in Woodville. It consisted of Elder Salisbury, Elder Warren, Elder McReavy, Elder Wilson, Elder Digerness, and me. We got special permission to hold the meeting from the Branch President in Woodville. With no power in the building we partook of the sacrament in the brightest room we could find. That renewal of my baptismal covenants was such an experience. I never really had understood how important and lovely that is until now. We each picked a scripture and a hymn and then bore our testimonies. Not a dry eye could be seen. The spirit was so strong as these six 19 and 20 year old boys shared their feelings about this gospel. I shared 2 Nephi 33:10-12 and hymn 136 I know that My Redeemer Lives. The next Sunday, the 21st, was very unique in the fact that only about 6 or 8 people were in Sunday attire. The congregation was yellow shirts and jeans. We had a work party that day and to look across the chapel at all the men and women from the area that were willing to help aid these poeple was a beautiful sight. How great is my calling. That's not all that made last Sunday one to remember. The West's came to church, but in Jasper. Ha. We were in Beaumont and they were in Jasper but to know that our church is the same everywhere was such a comfort. Kim West the member and mother was accompanied by three of her non member children and they enjoyed it too. We have kept close with them via phone over the course of Ike and have an appointment coming up this week at their home in Brookeland. Elder Digerness has made so much progress Mom. It was a particular blessing indeed when he told me that no other missionary could have helped him like I did. I am so blessed to have a companion who pushes me in more aspects than one. Diggy is a great missionary who I am very fortunate to help out and also be helped out by him. Mom I am so happy right now. More than ever I realize the importance of a mission. It has been and will be, until I am married and have kids, the best thing I have ever done. Missions are like a filter of goodness, a mid life fine tuning if you will. It may be a two year experience but it's a lesson that lasts a lifetime. I am very blessed to have a family that supports and loves me the way ya'll do. I am especially blessed to be your son. Mom I love you.
Elder Jarman
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Aloha Back
Dad what is up?!
Hawaii! Oh man that's exciting! I hope ya'll have a great trip and enjoy one another. What a blessing it is to have parents who love each other. Thank you. The work is going... it really is tough when you get flushed twice. You are pretty much opening an area up and working with what you find yourself. But it is going good. We are still moving forward with the West family yes and have an appointment friday at 2 where if the spirit prompts us we may set a date. It's been 6 months and I have yet to have a baptism... ugh. I wrote you a letter concerning a verse of scripture, Ether 12:6 and I have grown to love that so much. It is so true. I know that. I just gotta keep being obedient and working hard. That is awesome about the Reg. Conf. What a blessing conferences are. I love Boyd K. Packer's talks. What was your fav? I have heard about the BYU game ha, a wins a win though right? I'll take it haha. I heard that the U beat Michigan?! Wha? That's nuts. I love you dad and am proud to be your son. HAve fun in Hawaii!
Love Elder Jarman
Hawaii! Oh man that's exciting! I hope ya'll have a great trip and enjoy one another. What a blessing it is to have parents who love each other. Thank you. The work is going... it really is tough when you get flushed twice. You are pretty much opening an area up and working with what you find yourself. But it is going good. We are still moving forward with the West family yes and have an appointment friday at 2 where if the spirit prompts us we may set a date. It's been 6 months and I have yet to have a baptism... ugh. I wrote you a letter concerning a verse of scripture, Ether 12:6 and I have grown to love that so much. It is so true. I know that. I just gotta keep being obedient and working hard. That is awesome about the Reg. Conf. What a blessing conferences are. I love Boyd K. Packer's talks. What was your fav? I have heard about the BYU game ha, a wins a win though right? I'll take it haha. I heard that the U beat Michigan?! Wha? That's nuts. I love you dad and am proud to be your son. HAve fun in Hawaii!
Love Elder Jarman
I Am In The Right Place
Hey mom,
What a fun time you must be having in Hawaii! I am way excited for ya'll. Jasper is good. We are doing good. I love serving here and the branch is great. I am about 175 pounds I think? We get fed so much here mom haha. I work out every morning though so I am not too fat I suppose haha. No need to worry though, I have will power. I will not be fat. Thank you for having Ali over for dinner. She enjoyed it thoroughly. How did you like her company? I love you and dad so much. My mission has been amazing so far. I just know that I am in the right place. I may be going through trials but I assure you I will only be strenghtened from them. love Elder Jarman.
What a fun time you must be having in Hawaii! I am way excited for ya'll. Jasper is good. We are doing good. I love serving here and the branch is great. I am about 175 pounds I think? We get fed so much here mom haha. I work out every morning though so I am not too fat I suppose haha. No need to worry though, I have will power. I will not be fat. Thank you for having Ali over for dinner. She enjoyed it thoroughly. How did you like her company? I love you and dad so much. My mission has been amazing so far. I just know that I am in the right place. I may be going through trials but I assure you I will only be strenghtened from them. love Elder Jarman.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
What A Week
Mom!
Thank you for the package you have no idea how much of an answer to a prayer it was. I got it the day we evacuated. I had no food, had just ran out of soap, and lo and behold I get a package from my mom with goodies and soap in it. I think that you not emailing me last week had a purpose, just as everything does. So thank you.
What a week... We were evacuated on Sat. and I have yet to be home to Jasper. I have been living out of my suitcase and I have gotten pretty good at packing ha. I never thought I would see the day... The work is coming along. Jasper is awesome, I love it. I have so much faith that we will have a lot of success here. We are teaching a less actives children, 4 of them and it's going good. I called them everyday that we were evacuated to show them that we really do love them. They are great people. I think I told you about Sis. West and how she had been inactive for 40 years and then our first Sun. in Jasper she showed up out of nowhere. What a blessing. Our other investigators Brad and Jacquilene are still going along. Brad last week unveiled to us a bit of his past... woah... Some of the things that he's gone through and done I could not believe. I just hope he gets a hold of the beauty of the atonement soon.
Andy is home?!?!?! That is crazy haha. Missions end? Huh? ha. Tell him hi for me would ya?
So pictures? Can you please oh please send me some of you and dad? I love you and appreciate the love you show me. I am praying for you so much.
Love Elder Jarman
I Have Been So So So Blessed
Mom,
I have been able to reflect a lot since leaving home and I have been so so so blessed over the years. To have friends and family like the ones I have is unreal. The Magelby's, the Knells, the jarmans, the drapers, Ali, Kief, Ray, Tyson, Calvin, Chris, The list goes on and on. I can't even begin to describe the happiness that I have from all these amazing influences. I love you Mom and appreciate your charity. Moroni 7:48 is a great scripture to describe you. I would love a photo of my mom and dad to be sent to me... :)
love you Elder Jarman
I Wouldn't Know
Mother!
Hi! I was very happy to hear that Benny May called ya'll. He is such a nice guy for doing that. I hope you had an amazing anniversary! 25 years! Woah! That is quite a while haha. I am so blessed to have been born into such a wonderful family. I have never really understood just how blessed until now. I love you and dad and the love you have for one another and your children, soon to be grandchildren ha.
So the olympics have been good eh? I wouldn't know ha. I wish I could watch them but.... oh well. I guess Michael Phelps is good at swimming though, 8 golds, impressive.
What a blessing this gospel is. I didn't realize just how much I didn't know until my mission ha. I cannot believe just how much I took for granted. My testimony before my mission was like a rock that just sat there and served somewhat of a purpose but now its a firery flame that is understood and loved. I have such a strong testimony concerning families and the importance of them. They are the most important social unit in all of time and eternity. You and Dad have done a superb job of raising your children and making us all feel loved. I cannot tell you enough how much I appreciate you. I love you so much. This church is true. If we read our scriptures say our prayers and pay our tithing then all will be well.
Love Elder Jarman
With All Due Respect
Hey mama,
Time really does fly... It's already been 5 months... that just blows my mind. The new place is great. We live with Brother and Sister McDaniel in a lovely double wide just off of the 252, it's a farm road I think. My new companion is a little different ha. He's 6'2" 195 and at first glance looks like he could play some ball but... looks are so deceiving. He couldn't be more opposite. He tells people he's a tree hugger... down here that's the worst thing you could tell folks. The main industry in Jasper is logging. He is socially not the best but a very spiritual Elder. I feel like we are together so I can teach him how to be personable and he can teach me how to be that much more spiritual. Jasper is probably one of the most racist cities in Texas. Look it up on Google and I am sure you'll see about the man that was drug behind a truck. The members in the branch are amazing! They are all very supportive of the missionary effort.
That was great to hear about the family updates! I feel like I am missing so much ha. I like to look at the mission like this. I push pause on a movie and then leave the room but right when I leave someone presses play. So when I get back I will expect the world I left to be what it use to be when in reality I will be so far out of the loop ha.
My testimony grows each and every day. It's incredible how that is. I love this work, I really do. I hope and pray that all is well with everyone back home. I was recently in the how of a pentecostal man and he kept trying to tell me that Jesus and Heavenly Father were one. For me to be able to say "With all due respect sir whatever you say will not change what I know. I know that Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father are two serperate beings. I know that sir." was so powerful. I love being a missionary.
I love you mama.
Elder Jarman
Thursday, August 14, 2008
My Testimony Grows Each and Every Day
Hey mama,
Time really does fly... It's already been 5 months... that just blows my mind. The new place is great. We live with Brother and Sister McDaniel in a lovely double wide just off of the 252, it's a farm road I think. My new companion is a little different ha. He's 6'2" 195 and at first glance looks like he could play some ball but... looks are so deceiving. He couldn't be more opposite. He tells people he's a tree hugger... down here that's the worst thing you could tell folks. The main industry in Jasper is logging. He is socially not the best but a very spiritual Elder. I feel like we are together so I can teach him how to be personable and he can teach me how to be that much more spiritual. Jasper is probably one of the most racist cities in Texas. Look it up on Google and I am sure you'll see about the man that was drug behind a truck. The members in the branch are amazing! They are all very supportive of the missionary effort. That was great to hear about the family updates! I feel like I am missing so much ha. I like to look at the mission like this. I push pause on a movie and then leave the room but right when I leave someone presses play. So when I get back I will expect the world I left to be what it use to be when in reality I will be so far out of the loop ha. My testimony grows each and every day. It's incredible how that is. I love this work, I really do. I hope and pray that all is well with everyone back home. I was recently in the how of a pentecostal man and he kept trying to tell me that Jesus and Heavenly Father were one. For me to be able to say "With all due respect sir whatever you say will not change what I know. I know that Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father are two serperate beings. I know that sir." was so powerful. I love being a missionary.
I love you mama.
Elder Jarman
Time really does fly... It's already been 5 months... that just blows my mind. The new place is great. We live with Brother and Sister McDaniel in a lovely double wide just off of the 252, it's a farm road I think. My new companion is a little different ha. He's 6'2" 195 and at first glance looks like he could play some ball but... looks are so deceiving. He couldn't be more opposite. He tells people he's a tree hugger... down here that's the worst thing you could tell folks. The main industry in Jasper is logging. He is socially not the best but a very spiritual Elder. I feel like we are together so I can teach him how to be personable and he can teach me how to be that much more spiritual. Jasper is probably one of the most racist cities in Texas. Look it up on Google and I am sure you'll see about the man that was drug behind a truck. The members in the branch are amazing! They are all very supportive of the missionary effort. That was great to hear about the family updates! I feel like I am missing so much ha. I like to look at the mission like this. I push pause on a movie and then leave the room but right when I leave someone presses play. So when I get back I will expect the world I left to be what it use to be when in reality I will be so far out of the loop ha. My testimony grows each and every day. It's incredible how that is. I love this work, I really do. I hope and pray that all is well with everyone back home. I was recently in the how of a pentecostal man and he kept trying to tell me that Jesus and Heavenly Father were one. For me to be able to say "With all due respect sir whatever you say will not change what I know. I know that Jesus Christ and Heavenly Father are two serperate beings. I know that sir." was so powerful. I love being a missionary.
I love you mama.
Elder Jarman
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Transferred
Hi Mom!
I am doing excellent. I was not evacuated but rather i was transferred ha. I was transferred the day before the storm hit actually. Baytown was evacuated too, so I would have been had I stayed. The tropical storm hardly did anything but knock a few trees down, it was all talk no walk. It was really hard to leave Baytown. Tears were shed, mostly by the kids in the ward though, this one sweet little girl Elise Cobabe was sobbing after sacrament meeting because she had heard the news. She drew me a picture, reminded me of Emma. I understand now how missions are the best two years. My new area is Jasper. It's super super country and filled with red necks. It's the furthest north area in the mission and gigantic. My new companions name is Elder Digerness, he's from West Jordan. We have already gotten lost a few times due to the fact that the last missionaries left us a crappy area book with no directions, but Im not bitter :) I can already tell this will be a very spiritual time with him, he's a great Elder. He has some anxiety issues and also some work to do on his social skills but I think I was sent here to not only serve the people of Jasper but to help him overcome some of his fears and to better his mission experience. He has been out 13 months and is the District leader here in Jasper. That's back to back DL companions, ha. Elder Nelson will be missed but I think it was time we parted ways and helped others out, we were a very unified companionship that went through a lot and love each other. Abe gets home Friday eh? You will have to get me his address and email so I can keep in touch with him. So you got to go to a called to serve meeting eh? How was that? Ya know I still have yet to be in the ward newsletter Mom, whats that all about?! I love you so much and am thankful for your prayers. I definitely feel a hedge of protection wherever I go. My new address is 5865 FM 252 Jasper, TX 75951. Oh! And we totally live with a member, weird huh? It's really quite sweet actually. The McDaniels are their name and we have only met her actually because he is in the hospital til Friday with an infection in his leg. She will be staying with him as well so we have the house to ourselves. It's weird having a TV in the living room with DVDs galore... Tempting... Almost ha. My favorite thing about living with them is their, well now our, dog! His name is Sam, go figure. haha. I absolutely adore him haha. Anywho, I love you. Take care!
Elder Jarman
I am doing excellent. I was not evacuated but rather i was transferred ha. I was transferred the day before the storm hit actually. Baytown was evacuated too, so I would have been had I stayed. The tropical storm hardly did anything but knock a few trees down, it was all talk no walk. It was really hard to leave Baytown. Tears were shed, mostly by the kids in the ward though, this one sweet little girl Elise Cobabe was sobbing after sacrament meeting because she had heard the news. She drew me a picture, reminded me of Emma. I understand now how missions are the best two years. My new area is Jasper. It's super super country and filled with red necks. It's the furthest north area in the mission and gigantic. My new companions name is Elder Digerness, he's from West Jordan. We have already gotten lost a few times due to the fact that the last missionaries left us a crappy area book with no directions, but Im not bitter :) I can already tell this will be a very spiritual time with him, he's a great Elder. He has some anxiety issues and also some work to do on his social skills but I think I was sent here to not only serve the people of Jasper but to help him overcome some of his fears and to better his mission experience. He has been out 13 months and is the District leader here in Jasper. That's back to back DL companions, ha. Elder Nelson will be missed but I think it was time we parted ways and helped others out, we were a very unified companionship that went through a lot and love each other. Abe gets home Friday eh? You will have to get me his address and email so I can keep in touch with him. So you got to go to a called to serve meeting eh? How was that? Ya know I still have yet to be in the ward newsletter Mom, whats that all about?! I love you so much and am thankful for your prayers. I definitely feel a hedge of protection wherever I go. My new address is 5865 FM 252 Jasper, TX 75951. Oh! And we totally live with a member, weird huh? It's really quite sweet actually. The McDaniels are their name and we have only met her actually because he is in the hospital til Friday with an infection in his leg. She will be staying with him as well so we have the house to ourselves. It's weird having a TV in the living room with DVDs galore... Tempting... Almost ha. My favorite thing about living with them is their, well now our, dog! His name is Sam, go figure. haha. I absolutely adore him haha. Anywho, I love you. Take care!
Elder Jarman
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
The Spirit Just Takes Over
Hey Dad,
This past week has been yet another great one. Whenever we actually get to sit down in a home and teach someone something in depth the spirit just takes over. We have a solid investigator named Angela Whitten, her husband is a fence sitter and wants to be all in or not in so we'll continue working with him. Angela is so great though, she loves learning and asks a ton of questions. They have two daughters who are just so adorable one is 8 and the other is 3 Katie and Chloe are their names. I think our main focus with them will be families. I have high hopes for them, but then again I have those feelings for all the investigators I have or have had. Mark and Becky Tice are such an amazing family. We actually had dinner with them and their good friends the May's last night at the May residence. We have met so many good people through the Tice's and have planted SO many seeds. I hope those seeds grow soon. I am still in Baytown with Elder Nelson yes but all that will change this coming Sunday. I am both excited and nervous for transfers. I will most likely be staying here but Elder Nelson will probably not be my companion next transfer. I have grown to love him like a brother. He has taught me so much. A goat?! Nice! I always liked when you would come home from scouting trips and you'd be sporting the go tee ha. I can't wait to get a picture of it! I still need one of you and mom. 25 years... woah. Isn't your anniversary on August 17th? Or did it already happen? I would hate to have missed it... ugh. We are allotted 130 a month for our needs and I should not go over that unless there is an emergency. I will do my best to not go over. Should I be worrying about my account balance and save like $30 a month over the course of 15 months? I love you dad and have the utmost respect for you. Any time I think of a word to describe you it is respect. Really I didn't do a good job of showing you that when I was back home. Something I have picked up while being out is the sirs and the ma'ms. So just know that you are respected ha.
Love,Elder Jarman
This past week has been yet another great one. Whenever we actually get to sit down in a home and teach someone something in depth the spirit just takes over. We have a solid investigator named Angela Whitten, her husband is a fence sitter and wants to be all in or not in so we'll continue working with him. Angela is so great though, she loves learning and asks a ton of questions. They have two daughters who are just so adorable one is 8 and the other is 3 Katie and Chloe are their names. I think our main focus with them will be families. I have high hopes for them, but then again I have those feelings for all the investigators I have or have had. Mark and Becky Tice are such an amazing family. We actually had dinner with them and their good friends the May's last night at the May residence. We have met so many good people through the Tice's and have planted SO many seeds. I hope those seeds grow soon. I am still in Baytown with Elder Nelson yes but all that will change this coming Sunday. I am both excited and nervous for transfers. I will most likely be staying here but Elder Nelson will probably not be my companion next transfer. I have grown to love him like a brother. He has taught me so much. A goat?! Nice! I always liked when you would come home from scouting trips and you'd be sporting the go tee ha. I can't wait to get a picture of it! I still need one of you and mom. 25 years... woah. Isn't your anniversary on August 17th? Or did it already happen? I would hate to have missed it... ugh. We are allotted 130 a month for our needs and I should not go over that unless there is an emergency. I will do my best to not go over. Should I be worrying about my account balance and save like $30 a month over the course of 15 months? I love you dad and have the utmost respect for you. Any time I think of a word to describe you it is respect. Really I didn't do a good job of showing you that when I was back home. Something I have picked up while being out is the sirs and the ma'ms. So just know that you are respected ha.
Love,Elder Jarman
I Am Good
Hey mama!
So the house is finally getting the makeover, weird. I just can't imagine what it will be like to come home to something not what I left ha. Hawaii?! Oh that is sweet! The Tice's oldest son Austin just graduated from The University of Hawaii and absolutely loves it there. When are you going? The Knell reunion is this week... tell everyone I say hi! That's so crazy to miss all these different things haha. I am good! The teaching is great! It really is so incredible how much love I have for my family. I am so honored to have been the son of two amazing people and have the siblings I have. The girls talk about me all the time? Ah... I just about cried... ugh ok maybe I did. Just a little though. I don't think anybody saw... ugh haha. oh well. I really love them so much! Did Hill get my letter? I hope so. How's Lou doing getting ready for high school? Is Emma still being the little Miss that she is haha? What's Quincey up to these days? She got a job yet? Oh tell Leo I say hi. I have been wanting to write that kid for a while now but don't have his address. I love you and pray for you every day and night.
So the house is finally getting the makeover, weird. I just can't imagine what it will be like to come home to something not what I left ha. Hawaii?! Oh that is sweet! The Tice's oldest son Austin just graduated from The University of Hawaii and absolutely loves it there. When are you going? The Knell reunion is this week... tell everyone I say hi! That's so crazy to miss all these different things haha. I am good! The teaching is great! It really is so incredible how much love I have for my family. I am so honored to have been the son of two amazing people and have the siblings I have. The girls talk about me all the time? Ah... I just about cried... ugh ok maybe I did. Just a little though. I don't think anybody saw... ugh haha. oh well. I really love them so much! Did Hill get my letter? I hope so. How's Lou doing getting ready for high school? Is Emma still being the little Miss that she is haha? What's Quincey up to these days? She got a job yet? Oh tell Leo I say hi. I have been wanting to write that kid for a while now but don't have his address. I love you and pray for you every day and night.
Happiness Runs Happiness Runs
Hey mama,
The work is going good. We do have a lot of new investigators but it's the progressing ones that we lack. I wish there was a switch we could flip on people that made them progress ha. It's all good though. The choir stint only lasted a month and then we broke up ha. No but seriously they only did choir in June. Lame i know. Elder Draper and I make our own songs up though. We are best friends. He's doing better with the mono. He's not going to be going home and all is well. I wont be getting a blood test because I realized I don't have it haha and I don't plan on getting it. I love you mom. It's such a great thing to be able to pray for ya'll every day. I smile every time I say your names. It's so cool. I'll be praying and not feeling happy or sad just kind of content then all of a sudden I will get to praying about ya'll and BOOM happiness runs happiness runs (like the cat stephens song yes). I just love the power of prayer and all of you. Take care. I miss you. Elder Jarman loves you and does his grocery shopping at Wal-mart. Today he will be purchasing... hmm... haven't thought of it yet. OH! Shoot I almost forgot. I went on exchanges with Elder Heriford this past week (Toad) and it was awesome! We tracted so much and got to talk a lot. He's such an amazing missionary and I really look up to him and respect him. He goes home at the end of this transfer (Aug. 3) and he took some footage of he and I in my apartment that he wants to show you. It's only a few seconds long but it's video nonetheless. So don't be alarmed if he stops by. I love you!
The work is going good. We do have a lot of new investigators but it's the progressing ones that we lack. I wish there was a switch we could flip on people that made them progress ha. It's all good though. The choir stint only lasted a month and then we broke up ha. No but seriously they only did choir in June. Lame i know. Elder Draper and I make our own songs up though. We are best friends. He's doing better with the mono. He's not going to be going home and all is well. I wont be getting a blood test because I realized I don't have it haha and I don't plan on getting it. I love you mom. It's such a great thing to be able to pray for ya'll every day. I smile every time I say your names. It's so cool. I'll be praying and not feeling happy or sad just kind of content then all of a sudden I will get to praying about ya'll and BOOM happiness runs happiness runs (like the cat stephens song yes). I just love the power of prayer and all of you. Take care. I miss you. Elder Jarman loves you and does his grocery shopping at Wal-mart. Today he will be purchasing... hmm... haven't thought of it yet. OH! Shoot I almost forgot. I went on exchanges with Elder Heriford this past week (Toad) and it was awesome! We tracted so much and got to talk a lot. He's such an amazing missionary and I really look up to him and respect him. He goes home at the end of this transfer (Aug. 3) and he took some footage of he and I in my apartment that he wants to show you. It's only a few seconds long but it's video nonetheless. So don't be alarmed if he stops by. I love you!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
The Battle Goes Well
The battle goes well. We are seeing things happening that didn't happen before so I hope and pray that the work will start to pick up. President Moldenhauer is so amazing mom! We had interviews with him yesterday and the spirit in that room was so strong. I love him already. That was good to hear lou and dad are having a bonding experience. Hopefully she comes to realize how important her relationship is with her father. Being on a mission has been such a blessing mom. I have met some of the greatest people ever. The Tice family has been a home away from home for me. They will be friends forever. There house is like grand central station too so we have become acquainted with so many people through them. We got duck calls made just for us by there neighbor. They just love us. I have also made a friend in Elder Draper, I am not sure if I have mentioned him before but oh well. He is so sweet and we get along really well, kinda like a Ray or kief. But he just got diagnosed with mono and may have to go home, I am freakin out about that. So I think I may get blood tested here in the next little bit just to be on the safe side.
I love you and pray for you day and night.
Elder Jarman
I love you and pray for you day and night.
Elder Jarman
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Quick Letter To Dad
The 4th of July was great. It was very different but nonetheless great. I ate a lot we'll just say ha. The heat really doesn't get to me that much, some days though like yesterday do. The humidity is crazy. The driving is going great haha. Thank you for asking. The usual 4th sounds like a blast haha. Thanks for filling me in. Cait is already done with the summer sales? Time flies... ha. I will try to reply to all the letters I got from ya'll, thanks for those. I gotta run, basketball calls, but just know I love you and pray for you always. Be safe on your hike!
Elder Jarman
Elder Jarman
It's That Simple
(written to a friend who is working on going on a mission)
Dude... You gotta get on a mission. It's amazing. It truly is. It puts all that garbage material stuff to shame. I did have to stop hanging out with my best friends because I wanted to serve it's true. It was hard but it was worth it. I didn't lose my friends either if that's what you're worried about. You gotta take a stand sooner or later. I know you are trying and that's great man keep it up. I pray for you every day. Just keep taking those steps to serve. I promise that if you do you will be the happiest you have ever been in your life. This past week hasn't been the easiest but still I am happier than if I would have been home. Missions are incredible. You love people in a way you never thought possible. This kid Justin for instance, we met him a month ago about and had a great talk with him. He's one of the most intelligent people Ive met. He fights with his mom all the time and we usually talk to her while tears stream down her face. My point is that I have grown to love this kid and I want him to find joy and happiness not in drugs but in what we have to share, the gospel. He has it all figured out he just needs to put forth the action. I want you to have that same experience man. A mission is what you want, right? If it really is then you will go. If not then you won't. It's that simple. I have all the faith in the world in you. You will be a great missionary.
I love you man, Elder Jarman
Dude... You gotta get on a mission. It's amazing. It truly is. It puts all that garbage material stuff to shame. I did have to stop hanging out with my best friends because I wanted to serve it's true. It was hard but it was worth it. I didn't lose my friends either if that's what you're worried about. You gotta take a stand sooner or later. I know you are trying and that's great man keep it up. I pray for you every day. Just keep taking those steps to serve. I promise that if you do you will be the happiest you have ever been in your life. This past week hasn't been the easiest but still I am happier than if I would have been home. Missions are incredible. You love people in a way you never thought possible. This kid Justin for instance, we met him a month ago about and had a great talk with him. He's one of the most intelligent people Ive met. He fights with his mom all the time and we usually talk to her while tears stream down her face. My point is that I have grown to love this kid and I want him to find joy and happiness not in drugs but in what we have to share, the gospel. He has it all figured out he just needs to put forth the action. I want you to have that same experience man. A mission is what you want, right? If it really is then you will go. If not then you won't. It's that simple. I have all the faith in the world in you. You will be a great missionary.
I love you man, Elder Jarman
Are My Spirits Up?
Mom,
Are my spirits up? Yes of course! They are higher than they have ever been in my life. I did get the letters from everyone and I am so thankful for them. I will do my best to reply to them all. How come ya'll never really reply to what I say? Just wondering. The 4th was great! We went to our Ward Mission Leaders home for a noon o clock bbq then over to the Tice family's home for a night time bbq. The Tice's are so awesome. I have told you about them a few times but not near as much as I should. They look at us as sons. Whenever we don't have a meal they tell us to come over to there place. Just really great people. I know that I will be talking to them long after my mission is over, they are just that sweet. I love you dearly. Thank you so much for updating me on the extended family that is always nice to be in the loop on things.
Love Elder Jarman
Are my spirits up? Yes of course! They are higher than they have ever been in my life. I did get the letters from everyone and I am so thankful for them. I will do my best to reply to them all. How come ya'll never really reply to what I say? Just wondering. The 4th was great! We went to our Ward Mission Leaders home for a noon o clock bbq then over to the Tice family's home for a night time bbq. The Tice's are so awesome. I have told you about them a few times but not near as much as I should. They look at us as sons. Whenever we don't have a meal they tell us to come over to there place. Just really great people. I know that I will be talking to them long after my mission is over, they are just that sweet. I love you dearly. Thank you so much for updating me on the extended family that is always nice to be in the loop on things.
Love Elder Jarman
Texans Can Cook
Haha. Oh man, of course that brings back memories. I wrote about that in my journal the other day actually haha.
Texans celebrate the 4th with bar b q's. We are going to 3 I believe. These aren't your average bbq's though. Texans can cook! It sounds like ya'll are going to have an awesome time back home. I always loved independence day. Holidays in the field are definitely different. So this past week we got our new Mission President, President Moldenhauer. He's from Soda Springs Idaho and is keen on working hard. President Lake will be missed sorely but I know that President Moldenhauer will do a great job. I have been approved to drive! Haha. I haven't driven for... a while. So pray for me will ya? I'm not sure if I have told ya'll about Shareeda Cox but I am going to anyway. She is our newest investigator. She has come to church the last two weeks and has loved it! She actually stayed after for BYC haha. It was funny. She has two kids and is married. The kids join her as well as her niece and nephew but the husband is super busy with work. She has been looking around for a church for some time now and she said that ours is her favorite, probably because she felt the spirit testify to her that it's true is my guess any takers? I love this church. One thing I have tried to do lately is to challenge the members to find people for us to teach. There are so many who want what we have but just don't know where to find it or how to find it. The trek sounds like it was a blast! I remember when I went on that. It was a very spiritual time for me when I got to read those letters from my parents. I remember just crying on my own sitting on a rock, tears of joy of course. I love you mom and dad. I hope you know that by now. I received the package with family pics in it! Thank you so much! I wished it would have been a better family photo haha but it'll do for now. The pictures of the girls were so nice to get. I loved them. well family, I love you and pray for you.
Elder Jarman
Texans celebrate the 4th with bar b q's. We are going to 3 I believe. These aren't your average bbq's though. Texans can cook! It sounds like ya'll are going to have an awesome time back home. I always loved independence day. Holidays in the field are definitely different. So this past week we got our new Mission President, President Moldenhauer. He's from Soda Springs Idaho and is keen on working hard. President Lake will be missed sorely but I know that President Moldenhauer will do a great job. I have been approved to drive! Haha. I haven't driven for... a while. So pray for me will ya? I'm not sure if I have told ya'll about Shareeda Cox but I am going to anyway. She is our newest investigator. She has come to church the last two weeks and has loved it! She actually stayed after for BYC haha. It was funny. She has two kids and is married. The kids join her as well as her niece and nephew but the husband is super busy with work. She has been looking around for a church for some time now and she said that ours is her favorite, probably because she felt the spirit testify to her that it's true is my guess any takers? I love this church. One thing I have tried to do lately is to challenge the members to find people for us to teach. There are so many who want what we have but just don't know where to find it or how to find it. The trek sounds like it was a blast! I remember when I went on that. It was a very spiritual time for me when I got to read those letters from my parents. I remember just crying on my own sitting on a rock, tears of joy of course. I love you mom and dad. I hope you know that by now. I received the package with family pics in it! Thank you so much! I wished it would have been a better family photo haha but it'll do for now. The pictures of the girls were so nice to get. I loved them. well family, I love you and pray for you.
Elder Jarman
Saturday, June 28, 2008
I Say Gators
I just wrote the longest email ever and it didn't send and logged me out, "what kind of hotel is this?!"
I will do my best to write a half decent email this week. The work is going great we are seeing a lot of action as far as new gators go. I say gators and mean investigators of course. Funny story... A member was telling us about a gator at church and I wanted to meet it so I thought oh there last name must be gator... Yeah I stood corrected. I just didn't know ok give me a break. Anywho... Yeah the work is going. We were an answer to a woman's prayer on Monday actually. She was praying to know what to do in life and we knocked on her door. She was quite surprised ha. We have an appointment with her tomorrow so I hope that goes well.
At dinner on Monday at the Bishop's house I found out some interesting news. Bishop Carraway's son Spencer was visiting from Provo and told me I looked familiar. Turns out he served with Wes in the California San Fernando mission. So I told him I would work on getting his number for him, is that a possibility?
Also! I neeeeeed, not just want, but neeeeeed, pictures of ya'll. I am not going to lie I am disappointed it has taken this long. Please please please send me some.
I will do my best to write a half decent email this week. The work is going great we are seeing a lot of action as far as new gators go. I say gators and mean investigators of course. Funny story... A member was telling us about a gator at church and I wanted to meet it so I thought oh there last name must be gator... Yeah I stood corrected. I just didn't know ok give me a break. Anywho... Yeah the work is going. We were an answer to a woman's prayer on Monday actually. She was praying to know what to do in life and we knocked on her door. She was quite surprised ha. We have an appointment with her tomorrow so I hope that goes well.
At dinner on Monday at the Bishop's house I found out some interesting news. Bishop Carraway's son Spencer was visiting from Provo and told me I looked familiar. Turns out he served with Wes in the California San Fernando mission. So I told him I would work on getting his number for him, is that a possibility?
Also! I neeeeeed, not just want, but neeeeeed, pictures of ya'll. I am not going to lie I am disappointed it has taken this long. Please please please send me some.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Anywho
Hey ya'll it sounds like everyone is busy busy busy as usual. Dad I hope you enjoyed a good Father's Day. I was more than happy to send off that letter for you. The work here is going great. The weather is crazy here haha. Yesterday we went and visited our good friends the Tices and watched an incredible thunder storm roll through. I am talkin' bolts of lightning that stay in the sky for over 4 seconds, it was awesome. I think I told you about the Tice family before, if not then just know that they have adopted us as their own haha. We have two non member families like that who just love us to death. It's nice to know people like the Tice's and The Daniels exist. So the progress on the house moves on! Yes! The pine tree gone? What the... I never did like that tree, it's needles always prohibited a larger football field because I hated wearing shoes. Remember how i'd just go outside for hours on end and play in the front yard? haha. That kid was cool. Now look at me... haha. Anywho... So the summer heat here is supposedly only to get worse and wal mart was saying that they usually run out of bottled water in the coming months, the tap water here is un drinkable so say all the residents so that's a dilemna I suppose. We Finish the Book of Mormon tomorrow as a zone! I am SO excited! i am on page 513 right now just so you know. It's really such an amazing book. I can't wait to study it more in depth. What's up with me not having a family picture still?! Do you want me to forget what ya'll look like? Is that it? Don't you love me?! haha. Just jokin', but seriously I would enjoy a family photo. :) I love ya'll more and more each day!
Elder Jarman
Elder Jarman
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
We As Missionaries Are To Change Peoples Lives
Mom and Dad,
My week has been amazing once again. Yesterday was my last new missionary training so I am officially not a greenie anymore. That feels good to get past ha. Ya'll sound pretty busy with camping and what not, that sounds like fun! Keep up the good family fun. I love our family and how close we all are. I can only imagine us getting closer. I had a very spiritual experience this week. The night before new missionary training I had this feeling that I was going to be chosen to speak on the spot so I organized things that I wanted to talk on. I wanted to start it out with "What are we all doing here?" I was going to focus on how we as missionaries are literally sent to change lives and that we need to be soldiers for our Savior Jesus Christ as it talks about in 2 Timothy 2:4. Well NMT came and the on the spot talks we assigned and I was not going to be one of them, I was a little bummed not gonna lie. I kinda forgot about it during lunch and then we came back in for President's final words and guess what his first words were? "What are we all doing here?" I couldn't believe it. The message that I wanted so badly to get across to the missionaries in attendance was given. Of course his words differed from mine but the main message was the same, that we as missionaries are to change peoples lives. It was such an incredible talk and especially for me. He went on to talk about how we should serve knowing Jesus Christ is our companion and that we should never doubt that in the least bit. Dad I don't know if it's a midlife crisis but it sure sounds crazy haha, riding your bike to work?! How far is that exactly? Wearing a helmet right? I am at 172 lbs now. I am shooting for 200 by the time I am home so we'll see what happens. That's so weird about all those people getting married ha. Oh and I am still waiting for a family photo... goodness gracious. I just want a picture of all ya'll haha. is that too much to ask for? haha. Just joking, i understand you are busy and what not. Ummm... oh! Jason S. Is doing really well. We have an appointment with him tomorrow and are just going to go over everything we've covered and invite him out to church again. I hope he comes. Thank you so much for all your love and support. Your prayers help out tons! I love you and pray for you daily.
Love, Elder Jarman
My week has been amazing once again. Yesterday was my last new missionary training so I am officially not a greenie anymore. That feels good to get past ha. Ya'll sound pretty busy with camping and what not, that sounds like fun! Keep up the good family fun. I love our family and how close we all are. I can only imagine us getting closer. I had a very spiritual experience this week. The night before new missionary training I had this feeling that I was going to be chosen to speak on the spot so I organized things that I wanted to talk on. I wanted to start it out with "What are we all doing here?" I was going to focus on how we as missionaries are literally sent to change lives and that we need to be soldiers for our Savior Jesus Christ as it talks about in 2 Timothy 2:4. Well NMT came and the on the spot talks we assigned and I was not going to be one of them, I was a little bummed not gonna lie. I kinda forgot about it during lunch and then we came back in for President's final words and guess what his first words were? "What are we all doing here?" I couldn't believe it. The message that I wanted so badly to get across to the missionaries in attendance was given. Of course his words differed from mine but the main message was the same, that we as missionaries are to change peoples lives. It was such an incredible talk and especially for me. He went on to talk about how we should serve knowing Jesus Christ is our companion and that we should never doubt that in the least bit. Dad I don't know if it's a midlife crisis but it sure sounds crazy haha, riding your bike to work?! How far is that exactly? Wearing a helmet right? I am at 172 lbs now. I am shooting for 200 by the time I am home so we'll see what happens. That's so weird about all those people getting married ha. Oh and I am still waiting for a family photo... goodness gracious. I just want a picture of all ya'll haha. is that too much to ask for? haha. Just joking, i understand you are busy and what not. Ummm... oh! Jason S. Is doing really well. We have an appointment with him tomorrow and are just going to go over everything we've covered and invite him out to church again. I hope he comes. Thank you so much for all your love and support. Your prayers help out tons! I love you and pray for you daily.
Love, Elder Jarman
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Steadfast and Immovable
The ward choir is going to be so fun ha. We are singing hymn # 103, the name of it has escaped me as of the moment. The people we helped out with we were able to talk to the other Elders and get some more food and supplies out to them but as far as the gospel goes they just aren't ready for it. We shared the message with them but they weren't very receptive. We did however get a solid investigator in that same apartment complex. Jason Suilleau is his name. We have taught him the first and second lessons and we have made an appointment for next week as well. He loved hearing about the levels of glory and understood everything we said. Of course Lou got burnt haha. That's no fun at all. I remember that feeling haha. Ugh. That was the day of Tyler's graduation I believe. Weird. The trek ought to be a very enjoyable time. I remember going on that a few years back and it was a blast. How is Emma liking Ali's dance lessons? Dancing is much better than watching tv any old day. I do hear from Dave and Brennen once a week and I wrote Jon a letter. I hear from Ray and Kief also. This past week we visited a member of our ward who has cancer and Dad I have never seen anything like it. I literally saw cancer. Oozing out of this woman's chest. It's awful. She doesn't have insurance and so she just sits and bleeds in her living room while her 24 year old daughter tends her and her husband works. Again I was reminded how blessed I truly am. I love you Dad and am so thankful for the man you are. You are the definition of steadfast and immovable to me. Elder Jarman
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Biking On the 146
Dear Dad,
This past week has been incredible to say the least. Elder Nelson and I were informed that we had 270 miles less than normal so we hit up the heel toe express. Biking on the 146 is ludacris. So we walked the highway, saw a huge wreck happen 20 yards away (don't tell mom) haha, got flipped off a bunch, and the best part we saw things from a much different view. While Walking on Memorial Day we noticed a lot more smaller streets which led to some trailer parks. I have seen some poverty stricken areas in my day but nothing like this. It really made me look at my life and put into perspective just how blessed I am to have lived the way I have thus far. I am SO thankful for you and mom and the way you raised us. So we continued tracting and we came to an apartment complex in the which we found two families who were beyond poor. The first was a single man with disabilities who's family abandoned him and he was on his last can of beans and the other was a family of three. The father of the family of three looked run down and really on the verge of giving up. He and his family are living off $1100 a month he gets from disability. He asked us for toilet paper. I felt so bad for the situation they were in so I said you hold tight we'll be back once we're done knocking your neighbors doors. So we finished tracting the complex then ran home and cleaned out ALL of our food in our cupboards and gathered some toiletries as well. We gave two full bags to Lee Stratten, the single old man, and then we gave three full bags to Michael and Cindy, the family of three. The looks on their faces rivaled a 6 year olds on Christmas morning. Michael fought back tears and thanked us from the bottom of his heart and told us he didn't think we'd really come back. What an amazing feeling it was Dad. We also in that same complex knocked into an ex con who wants to learn more about our church and accepted Joseph Smith's vision. He's way open and loved for us to discuss the "Good Word". So that was what I did on Memorial day, all the while thinking of Olivia and how amazing it is to be a member of this the only TRUE church. I love it! I am so thankful to be on a mission right now. It puts everything into perspective, everything. I am a changed person already and can't wait to take what I learn in the field and apply it to my everyday normal life back home. I just finished reading the account of Abinidi. It makes me want to be a better missionary when I read things like that. The courage he had...woah. I love reading the Book of Mormon and re reading it. It's such an inspiring book. All those nights that I would come home late and see you at the table studying... I SO wish I could go back and pull up a chair with you Dad. I can't wait to study with you when I get home. You in? well dad I didn't do a good job in replying to your email but I did read it and loved it, thank you so much for writing me. You still need to send me a letter with pictures of the fam though! Don't think you are off the hook haha. Love Elder Jarman
This past week has been incredible to say the least. Elder Nelson and I were informed that we had 270 miles less than normal so we hit up the heel toe express. Biking on the 146 is ludacris. So we walked the highway, saw a huge wreck happen 20 yards away (don't tell mom) haha, got flipped off a bunch, and the best part we saw things from a much different view. While Walking on Memorial Day we noticed a lot more smaller streets which led to some trailer parks. I have seen some poverty stricken areas in my day but nothing like this. It really made me look at my life and put into perspective just how blessed I am to have lived the way I have thus far. I am SO thankful for you and mom and the way you raised us. So we continued tracting and we came to an apartment complex in the which we found two families who were beyond poor. The first was a single man with disabilities who's family abandoned him and he was on his last can of beans and the other was a family of three. The father of the family of three looked run down and really on the verge of giving up. He and his family are living off $1100 a month he gets from disability. He asked us for toilet paper. I felt so bad for the situation they were in so I said you hold tight we'll be back once we're done knocking your neighbors doors. So we finished tracting the complex then ran home and cleaned out ALL of our food in our cupboards and gathered some toiletries as well. We gave two full bags to Lee Stratten, the single old man, and then we gave three full bags to Michael and Cindy, the family of three. The looks on their faces rivaled a 6 year olds on Christmas morning. Michael fought back tears and thanked us from the bottom of his heart and told us he didn't think we'd really come back. What an amazing feeling it was Dad. We also in that same complex knocked into an ex con who wants to learn more about our church and accepted Joseph Smith's vision. He's way open and loved for us to discuss the "Good Word". So that was what I did on Memorial day, all the while thinking of Olivia and how amazing it is to be a member of this the only TRUE church. I love it! I am so thankful to be on a mission right now. It puts everything into perspective, everything. I am a changed person already and can't wait to take what I learn in the field and apply it to my everyday normal life back home. I just finished reading the account of Abinidi. It makes me want to be a better missionary when I read things like that. The courage he had...woah. I love reading the Book of Mormon and re reading it. It's such an inspiring book. All those nights that I would come home late and see you at the table studying... I SO wish I could go back and pull up a chair with you Dad. I can't wait to study with you when I get home. You in? well dad I didn't do a good job in replying to your email but I did read it and loved it, thank you so much for writing me. You still need to send me a letter with pictures of the fam though! Don't think you are off the hook haha. Love Elder Jarman
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Time Is Flying
Mama,
Seriously can you believe it's already over 2 months? Time is flying... ugh. I cannot believe it. I will pray for Ben, that is scary stuff. I hope he is doing alright. I have a feeling he's just fine though, he's a choice son of God. I was thinking that same thing about Pres. Warner! Seriously. What an awesome man. I love Stake Conference! Seems like just yesterday Cait was scratching my back on the top row... weird. I was glad to hear you sang in the choir. I joined our ward choir! haha. We start next month, I am so excited. Skyler Stice even though he's younger than me has always been one that I look up to. The way he carries himself is incredible. He is my definition of immovable and steadfast. I love that kid. He will be an amazing missionary. David Ridge! You gotta get his email address for me haha. He's a stud! The work here is going just the same. We set a baptismal date with an elderly woman, Mary Hartley, who is living with a man but in separate rooms who has had a few strokes and lives the law of chastity and all the other commandments but the fact that she is living with someone of the opposite sex is getting in the way. Poor thing. So the Stake Pres. said that he would pray about it to know what to do... I really hope it gets approved. She's really a sweet old lady is all. I love you so much and love hearing from you! Thank you so much for the package! I was beaming upon opening it. Tell Tyler I exist would ya? Maybe that would get him to write haha. LoveElder Jarman
Seriously can you believe it's already over 2 months? Time is flying... ugh. I cannot believe it. I will pray for Ben, that is scary stuff. I hope he is doing alright. I have a feeling he's just fine though, he's a choice son of God. I was thinking that same thing about Pres. Warner! Seriously. What an awesome man. I love Stake Conference! Seems like just yesterday Cait was scratching my back on the top row... weird. I was glad to hear you sang in the choir. I joined our ward choir! haha. We start next month, I am so excited. Skyler Stice even though he's younger than me has always been one that I look up to. The way he carries himself is incredible. He is my definition of immovable and steadfast. I love that kid. He will be an amazing missionary. David Ridge! You gotta get his email address for me haha. He's a stud! The work here is going just the same. We set a baptismal date with an elderly woman, Mary Hartley, who is living with a man but in separate rooms who has had a few strokes and lives the law of chastity and all the other commandments but the fact that she is living with someone of the opposite sex is getting in the way. Poor thing. So the Stake Pres. said that he would pray about it to know what to do... I really hope it gets approved. She's really a sweet old lady is all. I love you so much and love hearing from you! Thank you so much for the package! I was beaming upon opening it. Tell Tyler I exist would ya? Maybe that would get him to write haha. LoveElder Jarman
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
It Can Change Your Life
Mom,
Hey! It was so nice being able to talk to ya'll this past week. I thought maybe I would feel my first bit of home sickness but in truth it just boosted my spirits ten fold. I loved hearing your voices. Elder Nelson understood what you meant by it mom haha. He says thank you! Oh mama haha. I love you. So the girls made it to Chi town safe eh? Thats good to know. Emma Emma Emma... what a little woman she always has been haha. I was glad to hear you had a coming to Jesus talk with her mom haha. You should really get her involved in dance. Chris is going to the same mission as Scott?! That's so cool! Tell him congrats! So this past week we were tracting and we had three houses in a row tell us they would pray about the Book Of Mormon and for us to come back! That just doesn't happen. So I am really excited to see what comes of it. I made this one woman,, Rosetta, promise me she would pray about it, she laughed and said "You're a persistant one aren't you." I just gave her a big smile and said "I just know that it can change your life." So I hope she went ahead and did it. We are gonna check back tomorrow. I love you! Elder Jarman
Hey! It was so nice being able to talk to ya'll this past week. I thought maybe I would feel my first bit of home sickness but in truth it just boosted my spirits ten fold. I loved hearing your voices. Elder Nelson understood what you meant by it mom haha. He says thank you! Oh mama haha. I love you. So the girls made it to Chi town safe eh? Thats good to know. Emma Emma Emma... what a little woman she always has been haha. I was glad to hear you had a coming to Jesus talk with her mom haha. You should really get her involved in dance. Chris is going to the same mission as Scott?! That's so cool! Tell him congrats! So this past week we were tracting and we had three houses in a row tell us they would pray about the Book Of Mormon and for us to come back! That just doesn't happen. So I am really excited to see what comes of it. I made this one woman,, Rosetta, promise me she would pray about it, she laughed and said "You're a persistant one aren't you." I just gave her a big smile and said "I just know that it can change your life." So I hope she went ahead and did it. We are gonna check back tomorrow. I love you! Elder Jarman
Friday, May 9, 2008
Goodness Gracious
Hi family,
To start off I would just like to say thank you for your letter Dad, that meant a lot to me. And that Dr Seuss version of the Book Of Mormon was hilarious haha I loved it. As I read the scriptures more and more I find lots of humor in them, is that bad? Like when the Lord tells Nephi too zap his brothers haha, it's funny. Anyway on to my email... Thank you so much for searching out the items I asked for, if it's too much of a hassle I will understand but those things would be muchly appreciated. Haha Andrea's cooking eh Dad? That sounds like it would be tough to pass up haha, oh man. Yeah I am gonna try and call around 230 your time so... 330 here? Yeah. I can't wait! Again tell Toby wonderful things from me because he is a wonderful guy. That was awful to hear about Jim and Wendy, I hope they are going to be ok. I will keep them in my prayers. That is just too sad. And Stanford is ill too? Goodness gracious. I will pray for him as well. Congratulations on the Bike excursion! I knew ya had it in ya. Got any other sweet rides you're shooting for besides the LoToJa? Keep me posted. We have a few members in the ward that do Ironman stuff and were talking about how awesome the LoToJa would be. I won't comment on what mom is getting for mothers day cause I don't know if she knows but that is an awesome idea! Kudos to whoever thought that up. Mom you are a very beautiful woman! I wish I had some fancy something or other to send you but I will just send a card I hope it's up to par... The work is going alright. We don't have any investigators which is always frustrating but we work really hard and do a ton of tracting. We have made lots of friends that are of other faiths that absolutely love us. The Tice family is one of them. They are SO kind and supportive of our work but aren't even of our faith, just good people all around. Texas is full of nice people. This one woman asked if I was single cause she wanted to set her 18 year old daughter up with me hahaha I just laughed and explained what our policy on that was, she was a little bit confused but oh well. I love you all and can't wait to talk to you!
To start off I would just like to say thank you for your letter Dad, that meant a lot to me. And that Dr Seuss version of the Book Of Mormon was hilarious haha I loved it. As I read the scriptures more and more I find lots of humor in them, is that bad? Like when the Lord tells Nephi too zap his brothers haha, it's funny. Anyway on to my email... Thank you so much for searching out the items I asked for, if it's too much of a hassle I will understand but those things would be muchly appreciated. Haha Andrea's cooking eh Dad? That sounds like it would be tough to pass up haha, oh man. Yeah I am gonna try and call around 230 your time so... 330 here? Yeah. I can't wait! Again tell Toby wonderful things from me because he is a wonderful guy. That was awful to hear about Jim and Wendy, I hope they are going to be ok. I will keep them in my prayers. That is just too sad. And Stanford is ill too? Goodness gracious. I will pray for him as well. Congratulations on the Bike excursion! I knew ya had it in ya. Got any other sweet rides you're shooting for besides the LoToJa? Keep me posted. We have a few members in the ward that do Ironman stuff and were talking about how awesome the LoToJa would be. I won't comment on what mom is getting for mothers day cause I don't know if she knows but that is an awesome idea! Kudos to whoever thought that up. Mom you are a very beautiful woman! I wish I had some fancy something or other to send you but I will just send a card I hope it's up to par... The work is going alright. We don't have any investigators which is always frustrating but we work really hard and do a ton of tracting. We have made lots of friends that are of other faiths that absolutely love us. The Tice family is one of them. They are SO kind and supportive of our work but aren't even of our faith, just good people all around. Texas is full of nice people. This one woman asked if I was single cause she wanted to set her 18 year old daughter up with me hahaha I just laughed and explained what our policy on that was, she was a little bit confused but oh well. I love you all and can't wait to talk to you!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
A Couple Quick Ones
Hey!
It was so nice to hear from you! I have yet to receive that letter you wrote of but I will keep my eyes peeled for it. The bike has really only been used once because our area is so big. We have a Chevy Malibu that gets us from place to place. I can't wait to ride my bike more though. That is so cool you are going to do a 100 miler! That's intense. Just be safe alright, I will continue to pray for you and especially for your safety alright. I haven't much time to email today so I thought I would just fill you in on the work. It's going alright. We aren't getting people to follow through on their commitments which really bugs me but it also helps me to follow through with the commitments I make. The mission really sets the pace for life I realize. The habits I gain out here will (I hope) be carried with me throughout my life. I can't wait to call ya'll on mothers day! I am shooting for around 230 your time alright. So be there.
I love you Dad.
Love Elder Jarman
Hey!
So i don't have much time to write emails today so that stinks. I just wanted to let you know that I can pretty much call any time on mothers day so I will shoot for about 230 alright? I love you! The work is going great, it always is haha even if it's not :) I love my mission... Even when I am down I just think of what I have been blessed with. I am so blessed.
love Elder Jarman
It was so nice to hear from you! I have yet to receive that letter you wrote of but I will keep my eyes peeled for it. The bike has really only been used once because our area is so big. We have a Chevy Malibu that gets us from place to place. I can't wait to ride my bike more though. That is so cool you are going to do a 100 miler! That's intense. Just be safe alright, I will continue to pray for you and especially for your safety alright. I haven't much time to email today so I thought I would just fill you in on the work. It's going alright. We aren't getting people to follow through on their commitments which really bugs me but it also helps me to follow through with the commitments I make. The mission really sets the pace for life I realize. The habits I gain out here will (I hope) be carried with me throughout my life. I can't wait to call ya'll on mothers day! I am shooting for around 230 your time alright. So be there.
I love you Dad.
Love Elder Jarman
Hey!
So i don't have much time to write emails today so that stinks. I just wanted to let you know that I can pretty much call any time on mothers day so I will shoot for about 230 alright? I love you! The work is going great, it always is haha even if it's not :) I love my mission... Even when I am down I just think of what I have been blessed with. I am so blessed.
love Elder Jarman
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Thank the spirit
Hey! Things are going good, really good. I swear everyday I fall more and more in love with this wonderful place. Baytown is such an awesome area. I am so glad I started out here to get my feet under me. Elder Nelson and I get along great! We are pretty much best friends. He told me that I seem like I have already served a mission and am just going on another one from the way I am, so I liked hearing that ha. He also said he loves the way I pray (I have taken so much time to have more meaningful prayers so that really made me happy to hear) I love this work and know that this is what I am suppose to be doing in my life. That is so crazy that the girls are both gonna be cheerleaders haha. Weird! But I hope that they will really take it as a time to grow together and become closer. That will be awesome. And Lou is gonna try soccer? SWEET! She could be so good if she wanted to. those letters I wrote you guys were totally unexpected. I was having my personal study and i just had this strong feeling to write you both and let you know how much I love and appreciate you. So thank the spirit haha. Well the work is going great like I said previous and my spirits are high. We had Zone Conference last week and Pres. Lake opened it up to anyone who had a favorite talk from Conference and I felt prompted to comment on Elder Bednars talk, so i did. I raised my hand (first) and Pres. Lake was just beaming and said "Are you sure this is your first Zone conference" haha. I chuckled a bit. I just love this gospel so much! I can't help but talk as much as possible about it. we also were able to go do a session at the Houston Temple, it is such a magnificent place. I loved it! That Temple is gorgeous. I get to call ya'll on mother's day, weird huh? Be sure to tell me how Toby is doing and such alright. Tell him I love him and am so thankful for his service. Ya'll better answer when I call this time. I don't know if i told you already but I called from the airport when I left and nobody picked up! haha. It's all good though. I love you! Elder Jarman
In Texas...
In Texas...People actually fly the state flag higher than the country flag.Dogs are everywhere. The drivers are terrible.We get flipped off often and return it with a smile and a wave.We talk to either a Baptist or a Methodist at every door ha.People wake up every morning and give themselves a hug just for being from Texas. HEY!these are just a few things I have noticed since being out haha. People here are so kind and loving but really so crazy. I love the people we tract into that say "Oh we know all about you Mormon's." haha, they really don't know anything. Elder Nelson and I have been teaching this woman Patty Thompson that we tracted into and we really feel so good about her. She has a 5 year old daughter and two step daughters so currently we are looking for a family to fellowship them. At our last visit Patty asked tons of questions about the Book of Mormon and even about our backgrounds so I got to talk about you lots :) it brought such a joy and strong feelings of the spirit to share with her something I hold so dear. I can't wait to see her and her family progress even more. I hope you all know how much I love you and how much I pray for you. I hope all is well back home. Tell everyone I love them k.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
I Love It Out Here!
Mama!
Heyyyyyy! The transition from the MTC to the mission field has been great! My trainer is so sweet! We work so hard that our bodies ache come bed time but we have so much fun in the process. I love it out here. The humidity isn't even all that bad. I hear the summers are terrible though. Our apartment supposedly has a roach problem but we have yet to encounter any... I hope we don't ha. The work is going really good right now. We both are new to the area so we have been doing a lot of tracting and getting to know the members better. The members here are so awesome mom! They are taking very good care of me I can promise you that. We have dinner appointments every night, no kiddin. I hope all is well back home and that you are being treated with respect from the girls. I love you! :)
Elder Jarman
PS the mission office address is:
2815 west lake houston pkwy # 109
Kingwoood TX 77339
Emma!
Hey girly! So I just wanted to let you know that I have all your pictures up as decorations and everyone loves them. I can't wait to hear from you again :) I love you
Elder Jarman
Heyyyyyy! The transition from the MTC to the mission field has been great! My trainer is so sweet! We work so hard that our bodies ache come bed time but we have so much fun in the process. I love it out here. The humidity isn't even all that bad. I hear the summers are terrible though. Our apartment supposedly has a roach problem but we have yet to encounter any... I hope we don't ha. The work is going really good right now. We both are new to the area so we have been doing a lot of tracting and getting to know the members better. The members here are so awesome mom! They are taking very good care of me I can promise you that. We have dinner appointments every night, no kiddin. I hope all is well back home and that you are being treated with respect from the girls. I love you! :)
Elder Jarman
PS the mission office address is:
2815 west lake houston pkwy # 109
Kingwoood TX 77339
Emma!
Hey girly! So I just wanted to let you know that I have all your pictures up as decorations and everyone loves them. I can't wait to hear from you again :) I love you
Elder Jarman
Thursday, March 27, 2008
I Love the Gospel!
Family!
thank you so much for the email and letters and packages, they make me so so happy. I love you all so much! The MTC is really helping me realize just how much ha. Oh guess what, I have gained ten pounds! haha. Crazy huh? I swear the scale is just broken but whatev. That Easter package was just what i needed to boost my spirits! I was feeling my first bit of homesickness over the holiday but that package made it go away. I really am having fun learning here in the MTC and can't wait to get out in the field, only 6 more days! I really can't see me learning this much in this little time anywhere else. I love the gospel and what it can do for everyone and anyone, really it is for whoever wherever whenever. I didn't really realize that til now and i am sure that i will learn that even moreso in the field. I have been able to see Elder Ojuka about 3 times now. I actually helped him with his bags and get situated in his room. It really was so awesome seeing a familiar face. He's going to be such a great missionary. Elder King left for Argentina this past week and I got a chance to take some pictures with him also. Alma 34 has become my favorite chapter in the Book of Mormon, I read it at least once a day ha. Another chapter that I have grown to love is 2 Nephi 2. Oh how i wish I would have paid more attention when Dad would give us wisdom on the Scriptures! Ugh. Oh and I can see now why Dad is the way he is, I probably will be the same way after experiencing my mission too. I really am blown away at how much fun learning is here. Well I love you all and pray for you all everyday! :)
thank you so much for the email and letters and packages, they make me so so happy. I love you all so much! The MTC is really helping me realize just how much ha. Oh guess what, I have gained ten pounds! haha. Crazy huh? I swear the scale is just broken but whatev. That Easter package was just what i needed to boost my spirits! I was feeling my first bit of homesickness over the holiday but that package made it go away. I really am having fun learning here in the MTC and can't wait to get out in the field, only 6 more days! I really can't see me learning this much in this little time anywhere else. I love the gospel and what it can do for everyone and anyone, really it is for whoever wherever whenever. I didn't really realize that til now and i am sure that i will learn that even moreso in the field. I have been able to see Elder Ojuka about 3 times now. I actually helped him with his bags and get situated in his room. It really was so awesome seeing a familiar face. He's going to be such a great missionary. Elder King left for Argentina this past week and I got a chance to take some pictures with him also. Alma 34 has become my favorite chapter in the Book of Mormon, I read it at least once a day ha. Another chapter that I have grown to love is 2 Nephi 2. Oh how i wish I would have paid more attention when Dad would give us wisdom on the Scriptures! Ugh. Oh and I can see now why Dad is the way he is, I probably will be the same way after experiencing my mission too. I really am blown away at how much fun learning is here. Well I love you all and pray for you all everyday! :)
Thursday, March 20, 2008
I am a Missionary!
Heyyyyyyyyyyyyy
I sent you guys all letters but since today is my p day i got to set up my email account so i thought i would drop you a line. The MTC is really so amazing! I love it here. The people are nice, the food is... alright, and the spirit is SO strong. Really it's like a punch in the face almost. But not really cause that wouldn't be a good thing.
Anywho... We had the opportunity to have a General Authority Devotional last night and heard from Niel L. Anderson. He spoke on sacrifice and I had the spirit spikes all the meeting long. Really though. As I sat there singing Called to serve I looked around the meeting and soaked in one of the most beautiful sights. A gym filled to capacity with missionaries, and I was one of them. I am a Missionary! It really hit me hard last night and my testimony grew immensley from the words Elder Anderson spoke to us. He said that we may be sacrificing things but they are in no way comparable to that great sacrifice that Jesus Christ gave us. He laid down his life so that we all may be saved. It's uncomprehendable what he did and for that I am eternally greatful. I hope to further my learning until I can't learn anymore but as we read in "If you could hie to Kolob" there is no end to knowledge, so I do have quite a bit of room left to learn ha. I love you all and just want to let you all know that you are my biggest sacrifice. To give my family up for two years will be trying but to give two years to my Lord and Savior will be worth it oh so much.
PS
I already have the first lesson memorized! oh and the first vision the visioin of the Texas Houston East mission and my purpose as a missionary. I am so excited to be here!
I love you all so much! The church is true.
Elder Jarman.
I sent you guys all letters but since today is my p day i got to set up my email account so i thought i would drop you a line. The MTC is really so amazing! I love it here. The people are nice, the food is... alright, and the spirit is SO strong. Really it's like a punch in the face almost. But not really cause that wouldn't be a good thing.
Anywho... We had the opportunity to have a General Authority Devotional last night and heard from Niel L. Anderson. He spoke on sacrifice and I had the spirit spikes all the meeting long. Really though. As I sat there singing Called to serve I looked around the meeting and soaked in one of the most beautiful sights. A gym filled to capacity with missionaries, and I was one of them. I am a Missionary! It really hit me hard last night and my testimony grew immensley from the words Elder Anderson spoke to us. He said that we may be sacrificing things but they are in no way comparable to that great sacrifice that Jesus Christ gave us. He laid down his life so that we all may be saved. It's uncomprehendable what he did and for that I am eternally greatful. I hope to further my learning until I can't learn anymore but as we read in "If you could hie to Kolob" there is no end to knowledge, so I do have quite a bit of room left to learn ha. I love you all and just want to let you all know that you are my biggest sacrifice. To give my family up for two years will be trying but to give two years to my Lord and Savior will be worth it oh so much.
PS
I already have the first lesson memorized! oh and the first vision the visioin of the Texas Houston East mission and my purpose as a missionary. I am so excited to be here!
I love you all so much! The church is true.
Elder Jarman.
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