I recieved news about posting my emails on my blog. Seeing that the NYRM is the pilot mission for Internet Proselyting, they asked that I remove my blog. Blogs are accessible to the public, and some missionaries post negative things about companions, areas, investigators, etc. They reassured me that mine was not a problem, but they are asking all missionaries who are doing that to discontinue all blogs. As an alternative, you could forward my emails to those who would like to read them. :)
as you can see the blog postings will end because we want to honor what our leaders ask of us.
If you would like to be placed on the "forwards" list of Ryan's emails, please email me (ma-ma-ja@hotmail.com) your email address and I will be happy to do so.
Jenny Adair (Mom)
Monday, August 30, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Me Dearest Mum,
Wow! You have had quite a week!
Ok, i'm gonna start off with the questions you sent. That way, we can keep this email somewhat structured. ;)
1. So did you get my package? Did ya like it? Thought it would make you smile. I need to know what you need though.
Yes I did! Thank you so much! I loved it. I have to confess, I broke the Toy Story yo-yo already... It wasn't working to well with me. HAHA! :) Thank you for all the candy, too! It was very good. :) I got really choked up when I saw the pictures and read your letters (which reminds me, I'm going to do my best sending you written letters. It happened more in the MTC because the time devoted to email was a joke.) To my surprise, I miss the dogs. Those little goobers make me laugh. I LOVE the family pictures. Love them! The moment I got them, I showed all of them to my companion. Eli smiled like normal in a few of them... haha! It really meant a lot to get those. Thank you! :)
2. Have you gotten a pillow yet?
I did get a pillow. When I realized how much of a hassle it would be to send one out here (which I don't expect you to do), I went to K-mart and picked one up. It's been treating me real good. :) I'm hoping, through saving my mission funds 'n' stuff, that I will upgrade to a memory foam pillow. :) We'll see.
3. What about the smoke smell? Elisha told me a great way to get rid of the smell. Pour a bowl of vinegar and it will absorb the smell. When the vinegar turns yellow, pour it out and refill the bowl. cool huh?
The smoke smell has really died down quite a bit. I don't know if I told you, but we bought 4 or 5 air fresheners and placed them all around the house. It has made the smell go away for the most part. It still lingers in some places, but I try not to be around those places anyway... That's a pretty cool trick, though. I'll see how it works in those parts of the house - that is, if I can find some vinegar. I hope I don't have to go buy some.
4. How's the teaching going?
Teaching is going great! As far as numbers go, not so much, but the few we are teaching is pretty solid. Tina's having a rollercoaster of emotions. The Lord really wants to see how much she really wants to be baptized. We just recieved word from President Christianson at Zone Conference on Friday that, because she is on parole, we can not baptise her unless given consent from the First Presidency. He won't send a letter of reccomendation until he sees for himself that this really means something to her. He will see this through her doing the following:
1 - She must actively attend church (Ideally, every week)
2 - She must report to us that she is studying her scripture daily
3 - She must report to us that she is praying daily
4 - She must be smoke-free (starting at 3 clean weeks with no relapses)
As you can see, this truly is a trial of her faith. When we first told her the news, she took it like a champ, saying, "The Lord wants to know how far I am willing to go." The next day, however, it hit her bad. At church, we discussed with her the feelings she had. She didn't want to go any further, she was depressed, and she was heart-broken because we even had a date set. Mom, it was spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausting going through this. If it were just the strength and wisdom of Elder Bryson and I, we would not have succeeded in comforting her. Our whole faith was in the Lord.
One thing I have learned since I have been in the field is the lesson taught in D&C 11:21 - "Seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain my word, and then shall your tongue be loosed; then, if you desire, you shall have my Spirit and my word; yea, the power of God unto the convincing of men." With that in mind, preparing to tell her this news and helping her through this trial in her life, we turned her to the scriptures. We talked about the stories of Job (having lost almost everything in his life) and Abraham and Isaac (being commanded to sacrifice his son). Regardless of the hardship these prophets faced, they did as the Lord commanded and were blessed. We shared another story with her that really hit home - this is why I have grown the love the scriptures so much while I have been out here.
We turned to 1 Nephi 16. We read of the trial Nephi faced while hunting for food. His bow breaks, which accounts that it was "made of fine steel." All his brothers begin to murmur because, without a bow, they could not obtain food. Everyone in the family, including Lehi the prophet. Nephi realizes what he needs to do, makes a bow out of wood, arms himself with a sling and stones, and goes to his father, asking, "Whither shall I go to obtain food?" This story not only shows the importance of problem-solving, but teaches us about how to go about trials in our life. The wilderness that his family is going through can be a symbolic representation of life; the food is happiness, and the bow(s) are the ways to recieve that happiness. In life, aren't there times where our "bows" break? And when they do, are we going to murmur, sit and stew over how bad off we are, or will we find a solution, go and do what we know is right, asking our Father in Heaven, "Whither shall I go to obtain happiness?"
The purpose of me telling you this is not to aggrandize myself, because this insight came to me from the Spirit through my study. I love the scriptures because it helps me understand how to liken situations like that to my life. I love the idea of taking any situation I have in life to the Lord in prayer and, literally and metaphorically, finding my answer in the scriptures. It was no grand manifestation to me by way of angels or other divine revelation - but it was grand because of what I learned for myself. And what more over-joyed me was that Tina understood. She is doing the best she can to live her life in the positive things. My pride is in the Lord.
5. Still get along with your companion?
Everything is going great. Earlier this week, things got a little rocky, but that is what Companionship Inventory is for (discussing our strengths, weaknesses, and how we can improve ourselves and each other - it always begins with a prayer.)
6. Have the leaves started turning yet? I want pictures when they do.
They haven't quite started turning yet, but they are starting to fall. Everyone is saying it is going to be an early Fall. Beats me, but when it starts happening, I will send pictures.
7. Do you want me to send you another SD card so that when you send me yours, you will still have another one?
Another card would be great, actually! I don't need another 16GB card; just a 4GB MAX. That will make things a little smoother. Also! Tell me if you take all the pictures off so I know to take off all the old pictures. Thanks!
8. Do you need me to send you a raincoat or do you want to get one there? Let me know so I can do whatever I need to on this end.
I can get one out here. Whenever I ask you for anything, it won't be something that big. However, a portable CD player would be nice. President Christianson is all for music and has put a detailed list together as to what is appropriate and what isn't. I have become quite fond of the Prince of Egypt soundtrack. :)
Woof. How's that?
Yikes! That's a lot of money... :S... Of course, Taylor's car acts up once she goes to school. Why am I not surprised? I'm sorry about having to go through all that. That's poopy. :( Sorry for the rough night afterwards. I am glad to hear you're staying busy, though! :) and Taylor has LDS roommates! Hooray! I am so glad to hear that! Tell her to start sending me emails. :)
That's a whole lot of progress on the apartment as well! I knew all the BYU kids would help out with that stuff. That's so awesome! Glad to hear that Dad is so motivated. We all know how he gets, however, when he starts getting spend-happy... haha! JK he knows exactly what he's doing. Tell him to send me emails!!!!! Thanks!
It's going to be so weird coming back to see Emily in college and Eli halfway through high school. I doubt Taylor will change much. Do me a favor and stress with them how important it is to make themselves known for who they really are? Eli especially - Emily knows what she's doing at this point. I would hate to have Eli get caught up in the garbage he will find at school. I love him to much. Tell him I said that. Now, Emily and the boyfriend thing. I agree with you. I think it is a wonderful thing that she knows how beautiful she really is. I would caution her, however, of the mind of a teenage boy. Ultimately, regarding relationships, their mind is dictated by how she, as a woman, conducts herself. Regardless of how good of a guy he is, the adversary has his own ways of getting in to the best of us and creating such a construde view about a person. I look back and see how that applied with Sydney and I. The way she conducted herself put thoughts into my head that were less than appropriate, which is where it al started. I know you and Dad have probably told her this countless times, but I second the notion that she needs to be EXTREMELY careful with what she allows in her life, particularly about this boy. I don't mean to get all hard or beligerant - I just love them so much, and being out here in the field has made my love for them grow so much. Tell them to send me emails!
Alright, I will stop. There's your novel for the week. I love you all so much and miss you! Read your scriptures intensly and consistently. I have a challenge for each member of the family. I have set a goal for myself to finish the Book of Mormon by September 13. That is 10 Chapters A DAY. My challenge is not that intense for you. However, I would like for you to strive to read the Book of Mormon by Christmas Day. It is only going to happen if you read consistently every morning for an hour, and you will enjoy it if you pray beforehand for understanding the stories, knowing that they are for your benefit. Ask yourself, "Why did the Lord want this put into the Book of Mormon." If you finish it before Christmas, great! When I call on Christmas, I will be following up because I love ya!
Your son,
Elder Sean Ryan Adair
Wow! You have had quite a week!
Ok, i'm gonna start off with the questions you sent. That way, we can keep this email somewhat structured. ;)
1. So did you get my package? Did ya like it? Thought it would make you smile. I need to know what you need though.
Yes I did! Thank you so much! I loved it. I have to confess, I broke the Toy Story yo-yo already... It wasn't working to well with me. HAHA! :) Thank you for all the candy, too! It was very good. :) I got really choked up when I saw the pictures and read your letters (which reminds me, I'm going to do my best sending you written letters. It happened more in the MTC because the time devoted to email was a joke.) To my surprise, I miss the dogs. Those little goobers make me laugh. I LOVE the family pictures. Love them! The moment I got them, I showed all of them to my companion. Eli smiled like normal in a few of them... haha! It really meant a lot to get those. Thank you! :)
2. Have you gotten a pillow yet?
I did get a pillow. When I realized how much of a hassle it would be to send one out here (which I don't expect you to do), I went to K-mart and picked one up. It's been treating me real good. :) I'm hoping, through saving my mission funds 'n' stuff, that I will upgrade to a memory foam pillow. :) We'll see.
3. What about the smoke smell? Elisha told me a great way to get rid of the smell. Pour a bowl of vinegar and it will absorb the smell. When the vinegar turns yellow, pour it out and refill the bowl. cool huh?
The smoke smell has really died down quite a bit. I don't know if I told you, but we bought 4 or 5 air fresheners and placed them all around the house. It has made the smell go away for the most part. It still lingers in some places, but I try not to be around those places anyway... That's a pretty cool trick, though. I'll see how it works in those parts of the house - that is, if I can find some vinegar. I hope I don't have to go buy some.
4. How's the teaching going?
Teaching is going great! As far as numbers go, not so much, but the few we are teaching is pretty solid. Tina's having a rollercoaster of emotions. The Lord really wants to see how much she really wants to be baptized. We just recieved word from President Christianson at Zone Conference on Friday that, because she is on parole, we can not baptise her unless given consent from the First Presidency. He won't send a letter of reccomendation until he sees for himself that this really means something to her. He will see this through her doing the following:
1 - She must actively attend church (Ideally, every week)
2 - She must report to us that she is studying her scripture daily
3 - She must report to us that she is praying daily
4 - She must be smoke-free (starting at 3 clean weeks with no relapses)
As you can see, this truly is a trial of her faith. When we first told her the news, she took it like a champ, saying, "The Lord wants to know how far I am willing to go." The next day, however, it hit her bad. At church, we discussed with her the feelings she had. She didn't want to go any further, she was depressed, and she was heart-broken because we even had a date set. Mom, it was spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically exhausting going through this. If it were just the strength and wisdom of Elder Bryson and I, we would not have succeeded in comforting her. Our whole faith was in the Lord.
One thing I have learned since I have been in the field is the lesson taught in D&C 11:21 - "Seek not to declare my word, but first seek to obtain my word, and then shall your tongue be loosed; then, if you desire, you shall have my Spirit and my word; yea, the power of God unto the convincing of men." With that in mind, preparing to tell her this news and helping her through this trial in her life, we turned her to the scriptures. We talked about the stories of Job (having lost almost everything in his life) and Abraham and Isaac (being commanded to sacrifice his son). Regardless of the hardship these prophets faced, they did as the Lord commanded and were blessed. We shared another story with her that really hit home - this is why I have grown the love the scriptures so much while I have been out here.
We turned to 1 Nephi 16. We read of the trial Nephi faced while hunting for food. His bow breaks, which accounts that it was "made of fine steel." All his brothers begin to murmur because, without a bow, they could not obtain food. Everyone in the family, including Lehi the prophet. Nephi realizes what he needs to do, makes a bow out of wood, arms himself with a sling and stones, and goes to his father, asking, "Whither shall I go to obtain food?" This story not only shows the importance of problem-solving, but teaches us about how to go about trials in our life. The wilderness that his family is going through can be a symbolic representation of life; the food is happiness, and the bow(s) are the ways to recieve that happiness. In life, aren't there times where our "bows" break? And when they do, are we going to murmur, sit and stew over how bad off we are, or will we find a solution, go and do what we know is right, asking our Father in Heaven, "Whither shall I go to obtain happiness?"
The purpose of me telling you this is not to aggrandize myself, because this insight came to me from the Spirit through my study. I love the scriptures because it helps me understand how to liken situations like that to my life. I love the idea of taking any situation I have in life to the Lord in prayer and, literally and metaphorically, finding my answer in the scriptures. It was no grand manifestation to me by way of angels or other divine revelation - but it was grand because of what I learned for myself. And what more over-joyed me was that Tina understood. She is doing the best she can to live her life in the positive things. My pride is in the Lord.
5. Still get along with your companion?
Everything is going great. Earlier this week, things got a little rocky, but that is what Companionship Inventory is for (discussing our strengths, weaknesses, and how we can improve ourselves and each other - it always begins with a prayer.)
6. Have the leaves started turning yet? I want pictures when they do.
They haven't quite started turning yet, but they are starting to fall. Everyone is saying it is going to be an early Fall. Beats me, but when it starts happening, I will send pictures.
7. Do you want me to send you another SD card so that when you send me yours, you will still have another one?
Another card would be great, actually! I don't need another 16GB card; just a 4GB MAX. That will make things a little smoother. Also! Tell me if you take all the pictures off so I know to take off all the old pictures. Thanks!
8. Do you need me to send you a raincoat or do you want to get one there? Let me know so I can do whatever I need to on this end.
I can get one out here. Whenever I ask you for anything, it won't be something that big. However, a portable CD player would be nice. President Christianson is all for music and has put a detailed list together as to what is appropriate and what isn't. I have become quite fond of the Prince of Egypt soundtrack. :)
Woof. How's that?
Yikes! That's a lot of money... :S... Of course, Taylor's car acts up once she goes to school. Why am I not surprised? I'm sorry about having to go through all that. That's poopy. :( Sorry for the rough night afterwards. I am glad to hear you're staying busy, though! :) and Taylor has LDS roommates! Hooray! I am so glad to hear that! Tell her to start sending me emails. :)
That's a whole lot of progress on the apartment as well! I knew all the BYU kids would help out with that stuff. That's so awesome! Glad to hear that Dad is so motivated. We all know how he gets, however, when he starts getting spend-happy... haha! JK he knows exactly what he's doing. Tell him to send me emails!!!!! Thanks!
It's going to be so weird coming back to see Emily in college and Eli halfway through high school. I doubt Taylor will change much. Do me a favor and stress with them how important it is to make themselves known for who they really are? Eli especially - Emily knows what she's doing at this point. I would hate to have Eli get caught up in the garbage he will find at school. I love him to much. Tell him I said that. Now, Emily and the boyfriend thing. I agree with you. I think it is a wonderful thing that she knows how beautiful she really is. I would caution her, however, of the mind of a teenage boy. Ultimately, regarding relationships, their mind is dictated by how she, as a woman, conducts herself. Regardless of how good of a guy he is, the adversary has his own ways of getting in to the best of us and creating such a construde view about a person. I look back and see how that applied with Sydney and I. The way she conducted herself put thoughts into my head that were less than appropriate, which is where it al started. I know you and Dad have probably told her this countless times, but I second the notion that she needs to be EXTREMELY careful with what she allows in her life, particularly about this boy. I don't mean to get all hard or beligerant - I just love them so much, and being out here in the field has made my love for them grow so much. Tell them to send me emails!
Alright, I will stop. There's your novel for the week. I love you all so much and miss you! Read your scriptures intensly and consistently. I have a challenge for each member of the family. I have set a goal for myself to finish the Book of Mormon by September 13. That is 10 Chapters A DAY. My challenge is not that intense for you. However, I would like for you to strive to read the Book of Mormon by Christmas Day. It is only going to happen if you read consistently every morning for an hour, and you will enjoy it if you pray beforehand for understanding the stories, knowing that they are for your benefit. Ask yourself, "Why did the Lord want this put into the Book of Mormon." If you finish it before Christmas, great! When I call on Christmas, I will be following up because I love ya!
Your son,
Elder Sean Ryan Adair
Monday, August 16, 2010
email recieved August 16, 2010
To start off, I need to give you my apartment address. I realized that all letters and packages that are sent to me could not get to me until Zone conferences or even Transfer Meetings (as long as 6 weeks. :S) So, send to:
105 McMaster St. #101
Bath, NY 14810
This week has been... crazy. I have had, for the last few days, such a hard time adjusting to Bath. It's a small town full of crazy people, drunk people, and half-houses/safe-houses. In other words, I am in a very uncomfortable situation. Every day I have walked out of the house, I have had feelings of anxiousness, not knowing if some random person is going to pull a gun or shout profanities or whatever. I didn't know what to do, and it was affecting my spirituality.
One night, Elder Hunt called. As the AP, he was calling all of the new missionaries, checking up on them for the last few days. I didn't tell him I was struggling with these things because I figured it would blow over as time passed. I told him everything was going great and we ended the call. I then got a strong feeling that I needed to call back and tell him what has been going on. So, I picked up the phone and called him back. Embarrassed, I explained the situation to him. It was almost as if he knew I was hiding something because he didn't even skip a beat with his response. He reassured me that everyone goes through the same thing and I needed to study Chapter 6 in Preach My Gospel. It's all about Christlike Attributes. He told me to focus on Charity & Love. At first, I was very skeptical about this. How could reading something suddenly help me feel better?
Knowing that Elder Hunt knows what he's talking about and being prompted by the Spirit to do so, I began to study. In a sense, I was right. I didn't suddenly feel better. Gradually it came. By the end of studying that topic thoroughly, meaning hours spanned across days, I felt relief and peace. Since that moment, I have felt that I need to study every attribute and gain a testimony that it truly will affect my life. I called President Christianson and asked if he could enlghten me further. He told me exactly what Elder Hunt told me and that was why I needed to be here. The Spirit prompted me to pray for confirmation that this is where I need to be, and that is what I did. Mom, I know God answers prayers because He has answered mine. I feel at peace. I feel comfort and relief. I feel a want, more or less, to be in Bath. I also realized that President Christianson has made me feel at home here in this mission. I called him and left him message, thanking him for making me feel welcome and feeling like I am part of a family. He called me back shortly after and thanked me for the message and told me he loved me a lot. He said he needed my faith in this area. I don't know yet what he means by that, but I do know I will find out. I love President Christianson. He means so much to me already.
Which reminds me! Could you send me that CD of him you bought me? Could you also send any other things you can find by him? Books, CDs, etc? Elder Bryson has a CD of his that I have listened to and I like it. :) That would be awesome! :) I'm not looking for anything specific, just stuff by him.
I love you so much! How was hanging out with Todd and Deanna? How are they doing? I also will be sending pictures sometime... I'm gonna fill it up a little more. Did you copy all of those pictures I sent onto the computer? I assume that is what you do every time. If so, I will delete it all off my memory card. Thank you so much for your love and support!
Your Son,
105 McMaster St. #101
Bath, NY 14810
This week has been... crazy. I have had, for the last few days, such a hard time adjusting to Bath. It's a small town full of crazy people, drunk people, and half-houses/safe-houses. In other words, I am in a very uncomfortable situation. Every day I have walked out of the house, I have had feelings of anxiousness, not knowing if some random person is going to pull a gun or shout profanities or whatever. I didn't know what to do, and it was affecting my spirituality.
One night, Elder Hunt called. As the AP, he was calling all of the new missionaries, checking up on them for the last few days. I didn't tell him I was struggling with these things because I figured it would blow over as time passed. I told him everything was going great and we ended the call. I then got a strong feeling that I needed to call back and tell him what has been going on. So, I picked up the phone and called him back. Embarrassed, I explained the situation to him. It was almost as if he knew I was hiding something because he didn't even skip a beat with his response. He reassured me that everyone goes through the same thing and I needed to study Chapter 6 in Preach My Gospel. It's all about Christlike Attributes. He told me to focus on Charity & Love. At first, I was very skeptical about this. How could reading something suddenly help me feel better?
Knowing that Elder Hunt knows what he's talking about and being prompted by the Spirit to do so, I began to study. In a sense, I was right. I didn't suddenly feel better. Gradually it came. By the end of studying that topic thoroughly, meaning hours spanned across days, I felt relief and peace. Since that moment, I have felt that I need to study every attribute and gain a testimony that it truly will affect my life. I called President Christianson and asked if he could enlghten me further. He told me exactly what Elder Hunt told me and that was why I needed to be here. The Spirit prompted me to pray for confirmation that this is where I need to be, and that is what I did. Mom, I know God answers prayers because He has answered mine. I feel at peace. I feel comfort and relief. I feel a want, more or less, to be in Bath. I also realized that President Christianson has made me feel at home here in this mission. I called him and left him message, thanking him for making me feel welcome and feeling like I am part of a family. He called me back shortly after and thanked me for the message and told me he loved me a lot. He said he needed my faith in this area. I don't know yet what he means by that, but I do know I will find out. I love President Christianson. He means so much to me already.
Which reminds me! Could you send me that CD of him you bought me? Could you also send any other things you can find by him? Books, CDs, etc? Elder Bryson has a CD of his that I have listened to and I like it. :) That would be awesome! :) I'm not looking for anything specific, just stuff by him.
I love you so much! How was hanging out with Todd and Deanna? How are they doing? I also will be sending pictures sometime... I'm gonna fill it up a little more. Did you copy all of those pictures I sent onto the computer? I assume that is what you do every time. If so, I will delete it all off my memory card. Thank you so much for your love and support!
Your Son,
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Wednesday, August 11th First letter from the mission field
Well, I have finally made it to Rochester, NY! That flight trip was a lot longer than expected... :P However, everything has turned out for the better! :)
It has been quite an incredible couple of days. For starters, I met President Christianson. He's just like Uncle Craig; I love it!!! He is extremely blunt in that sarcastically loving way! :) He interviewed all 12 of us the night we got in. (P.S. Elder Hunt picked me up! He gave me a huge hug! :D) I was the last interview of the night - meaning I didn't get to sleep until around 11. In my interview, we talked about why I was here. I told him that I was here to do what the Lord would have me do in any situation and I would be happy with any place the Lord put me. Towards the end of the interview, we both got a little teary-eyed. I committed to him and the Lord that these next two years, I would not let them down. This time was for me to do the best I can in serving the Lord, and he told me that he was really touched by that. One thing he constantly told the group was that he loved us just like his kids. I feel the exact same way for him. Like I said, he is just like Uncle Craig and I don't think I could ever bring myself to let him down. :)
The next day, I recieved my new companion and trainer. His name is Elder Bryson. He's been in the field about 6 months and loves the fact that I want to work. One of the Elders from my MTC district (Elder Decker) is also in my new district. We have been assigned to serve in Bath, NY. Good luck finding it on a map... it's in southeast corner of the mission. It is a small, podunk town. When I first arrived, I was extremely nervous. I've met a lot of...interesting(?) people here. I'm sure you know how it is in small towns. However, I have a great story for you.
Side-note: So, I didn't move in to a very clean apartment (Elder Bryson's last companion also had to have an early transfer... ya, no good.) I understood the circumstances and we cleaned it up pretty quick. However, our next door neighbors are heavy smokers... and JW's. :P So the smell of their smoky atmosphere leaks into our apartment. YUCK! We went shopping today and I picked up a ton of air fresheners. Hopefully that works.
Our first teaching appointment was last night at 7:00pm. It was with one of Elder Bryson's golden investigators. Her name is Tina Cash. She's from Pennsylvania, had a rough past (used to be in prison under false charges) and is currently on probation. She has two daughters who are older, pregnant, and unmarried but in relationships. She met with the missionaries once before about 12 years ago, but that went south and decided recently that she was going to see us again. She already has a tentative baptismal date for 9/11. I say tentative because she is a smoker. She has committed to baptism, but she must be clean for 21 days before she can have her interview. She is very repentant and knows that she wants this, but she "will recieve no witness until after the trial of [her] faith." Elder Bryson said that was the biggest step they've made with her ever, and we aren't going to let up at all. I made a deal with her. If she stops smoking, I will stop biting my nails. I've done good, and so has she. We meet with her again tonight @ 7. We also meet with her friend, Amanda, who I also extended the committment of baptism, too! She has just started with us, and I know she can pull through if she, too, throws the addiction of smoking. She has a lot to learn, but I have full faith that she will do it. She is also committed for the 11th with Tina. Elder Bryson was so excited about what happened; his last companion left him out to dry a lot of the time. He's so relieved and grateful to have a companion who actually wants to work. I will continue to make sure I am that companion for him.
How's that for a first day? I figured I would just dive in and go straight to baptism. That's why I am here. As missionaries, we are the gatekeepers to baptism and we must "invite all to come unto Christ by helping them recieve the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and his Atonement, Repentance, Baptism, Recieving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and Enduring to the End." The MTC taught me well. More importantly, the Lord, through the Spirit, has taught me well. I continue to stay humble, yet bold and focused, yet happy in all things.
I love you all so much!! I hope everything is going well down in Provo. The mission is hard. I know that now because I have experienced it first-hand. However, I am strong. I know this is where I need to be, and I would have it no other way. At first, being in this little "village" gave me an unsettled feeling. I have since gotten over that and am now totally focused on why I am here. It has nothing to do with me. Remind Andrew and Catriel that they need to begin studying PMG if they haven't already. Don't focus on the lessons - those come in time and teaching. Focus on Ch. 4,5, and 6. Feel free to do so as well. Great insight on the subjects. :) Again, I love you all! My love goes out to all and letters will ship out monday! :)
Love always!
Your son,
Elder Sean Ryan Adair
It has been quite an incredible couple of days. For starters, I met President Christianson. He's just like Uncle Craig; I love it!!! He is extremely blunt in that sarcastically loving way! :) He interviewed all 12 of us the night we got in. (P.S. Elder Hunt picked me up! He gave me a huge hug! :D) I was the last interview of the night - meaning I didn't get to sleep until around 11. In my interview, we talked about why I was here. I told him that I was here to do what the Lord would have me do in any situation and I would be happy with any place the Lord put me. Towards the end of the interview, we both got a little teary-eyed. I committed to him and the Lord that these next two years, I would not let them down. This time was for me to do the best I can in serving the Lord, and he told me that he was really touched by that. One thing he constantly told the group was that he loved us just like his kids. I feel the exact same way for him. Like I said, he is just like Uncle Craig and I don't think I could ever bring myself to let him down. :)
The next day, I recieved my new companion and trainer. His name is Elder Bryson. He's been in the field about 6 months and loves the fact that I want to work. One of the Elders from my MTC district (Elder Decker) is also in my new district. We have been assigned to serve in Bath, NY. Good luck finding it on a map... it's in southeast corner of the mission. It is a small, podunk town. When I first arrived, I was extremely nervous. I've met a lot of...interesting(?) people here. I'm sure you know how it is in small towns. However, I have a great story for you.
Side-note: So, I didn't move in to a very clean apartment (Elder Bryson's last companion also had to have an early transfer... ya, no good.) I understood the circumstances and we cleaned it up pretty quick. However, our next door neighbors are heavy smokers... and JW's. :P So the smell of their smoky atmosphere leaks into our apartment. YUCK! We went shopping today and I picked up a ton of air fresheners. Hopefully that works.
Our first teaching appointment was last night at 7:00pm. It was with one of Elder Bryson's golden investigators. Her name is Tina Cash. She's from Pennsylvania, had a rough past (used to be in prison under false charges) and is currently on probation. She has two daughters who are older, pregnant, and unmarried but in relationships. She met with the missionaries once before about 12 years ago, but that went south and decided recently that she was going to see us again. She already has a tentative baptismal date for 9/11. I say tentative because she is a smoker. She has committed to baptism, but she must be clean for 21 days before she can have her interview. She is very repentant and knows that she wants this, but she "will recieve no witness until after the trial of [her] faith." Elder Bryson said that was the biggest step they've made with her ever, and we aren't going to let up at all. I made a deal with her. If she stops smoking, I will stop biting my nails. I've done good, and so has she. We meet with her again tonight @ 7. We also meet with her friend, Amanda, who I also extended the committment of baptism, too! She has just started with us, and I know she can pull through if she, too, throws the addiction of smoking. She has a lot to learn, but I have full faith that she will do it. She is also committed for the 11th with Tina. Elder Bryson was so excited about what happened; his last companion left him out to dry a lot of the time. He's so relieved and grateful to have a companion who actually wants to work. I will continue to make sure I am that companion for him.
How's that for a first day? I figured I would just dive in and go straight to baptism. That's why I am here. As missionaries, we are the gatekeepers to baptism and we must "invite all to come unto Christ by helping them recieve the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and his Atonement, Repentance, Baptism, Recieving the gift of the Holy Ghost, and Enduring to the End." The MTC taught me well. More importantly, the Lord, through the Spirit, has taught me well. I continue to stay humble, yet bold and focused, yet happy in all things.
I love you all so much!! I hope everything is going well down in Provo. The mission is hard. I know that now because I have experienced it first-hand. However, I am strong. I know this is where I need to be, and I would have it no other way. At first, being in this little "village" gave me an unsettled feeling. I have since gotten over that and am now totally focused on why I am here. It has nothing to do with me. Remind Andrew and Catriel that they need to begin studying PMG if they haven't already. Don't focus on the lessons - those come in time and teaching. Focus on Ch. 4,5, and 6. Feel free to do so as well. Great insight on the subjects. :) Again, I love you all! My love goes out to all and letters will ship out monday! :)
Love always!
Your son,
Elder Sean Ryan Adair
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Tuesday Aug 3rd! Finally an email!
Hello everyone!
So, last week, the email system was being a little strange. It wouldn't let me send any emails... :( I was bummed, but now I get to send both today!
It has been a fantastic time here at the MTC! Our district just recieved our travel plans! We leave the MTC at 4 AM Monday morning. WOOF! What makes it interesting is that I am the travel leader - this means I am responsible to get 12 elders and sisters (including myself) from the Provo MTC to Rochester, NY. No pressure... haha! I'm so excited! In six days, I start the work! We have a layover in the Chicago/O'Hare airport for 3 hours, so we are going to jump right into the work and contact as many people as we can. Our goal is 50 for our entire group! We'll see what happens. It turns out that there is one spanish-speaking elder serving in Rochester as well. Elder Elrey and I met him yesterday. He's a very cool guy and is very excited to find that he is not the only Rochester elder. Ha!
I have had so many good experiences while I've been here, though. I have learned how to recognize and be taught by the spirit more than ever before in my life. At first, I was very confused as to what I was feeling. My branch president (President Creer) directed me to Chapter 4 in Preach My Gospel. There is a whole table which outlines just some of the many ways the Spirit bears witness in your life, along with scriptures to prove it. It was my assignment to read through this list and prayerfully study each scripture. It has already blessed my live in so many ways! :) I have also increased my love for our Savior. I have always had a testimony for the Atonement, but this past week, I have learned how that sacrifice was personally for me. I can not thank him enough in words for what he did for me, and I know I can't make up for that through my deeds. From this, I've learned how vitally important it is to stay strong in his gospel and to keep his commandments continually.
I hope everything at home is well! Like I said, I officially leave home on Monday. That will be a great day! Next email is from New York!!!
Loves!
Elder Sean Ryan Adair
So, last week, the email system was being a little strange. It wouldn't let me send any emails... :( I was bummed, but now I get to send both today!
It has been a fantastic time here at the MTC! Our district just recieved our travel plans! We leave the MTC at 4 AM Monday morning. WOOF! What makes it interesting is that I am the travel leader - this means I am responsible to get 12 elders and sisters (including myself) from the Provo MTC to Rochester, NY. No pressure... haha! I'm so excited! In six days, I start the work! We have a layover in the Chicago/O'Hare airport for 3 hours, so we are going to jump right into the work and contact as many people as we can. Our goal is 50 for our entire group! We'll see what happens. It turns out that there is one spanish-speaking elder serving in Rochester as well. Elder Elrey and I met him yesterday. He's a very cool guy and is very excited to find that he is not the only Rochester elder. Ha!
I have had so many good experiences while I've been here, though. I have learned how to recognize and be taught by the spirit more than ever before in my life. At first, I was very confused as to what I was feeling. My branch president (President Creer) directed me to Chapter 4 in Preach My Gospel. There is a whole table which outlines just some of the many ways the Spirit bears witness in your life, along with scriptures to prove it. It was my assignment to read through this list and prayerfully study each scripture. It has already blessed my live in so many ways! :) I have also increased my love for our Savior. I have always had a testimony for the Atonement, but this past week, I have learned how that sacrifice was personally for me. I can not thank him enough in words for what he did for me, and I know I can't make up for that through my deeds. From this, I've learned how vitally important it is to stay strong in his gospel and to keep his commandments continually.
I hope everything at home is well! Like I said, I officially leave home on Monday. That will be a great day! Next email is from New York!!!
Loves!
Elder Sean Ryan Adair
last weeks email
Dear everyone!
My first week of the MTC!!! How fantastic!!!
I have truly loved it since I got here. It has been such a blessing to me! My companion, Elder Elrey, is a fantastic example of someone who absolutely loves to work. My district here in the MTC is PHENOMENAL!!! Their spirit is so strong and their knowledge and insight in the gospel is outstanding. I have already learned so much - about feeling the spirit, about knowing the doctrine, and about loving all those I come in contact with. It's amazing how the Lord blesses each of our lives if we just do the simple things; if we pray, read the scriptures, know it is true, believe with all your heart to be true, live what you know, love what you know, and share all you know, the Lord blesses our lives far beyond our comprehension.
In all honesty, I haven't felt very homesick. Rather, I felt right at home with all these Elders: Elder Elrey (my companion), Elder Fitt, Elder Wilson, Elder Decker, Elder Stoker, Elder Kupfer (my District Leader), Elder Bohn, Elder Mortenson and Elder Valgardson. The first 5 named missionaries are going with me to the New York Rochester Mission. The last four, unfortunately, are going to Orlando, Florida. Not that there mission isn't as cool as ours (though it isn't :P ), but I've created such a brotherhood with all my district, and it is going to be hard to not see them for 2 years.
I have been absolutely blessed with the opportunity to serve a mission! I love you all! For those of you preparing to serve missions, here are some tips for the MTC:
#1 - Hit the ground running. Never get distracted by the things you left behind. When you get that tag, you are immediately called to the Lord's work. The Lord works fast and with purpose and with power. Be ready for the challenge.
#2 - Don't expect to take everything in. They WILL throw a lot of information on you the very first day you enter. It doesn't slow down. Remember that when you feel like you can't do it. "For with God, nothing is impossible."
#3 - Love your companion. Love your district. Be ready to create a bond with them like you never have before. If you do, coping with the previous tips makes it a lot easier and more fun to do what you're supposed to do.
#4 - Prepare to grow. Somewhere in 1 Corinthians 13 states what every missionary should do to understand the value and virtue of the Lord's work.
Here in the MTC, we are given 30 minutes to right a crazy fast email. My fingers are cramping, but my love for all of you grows. I want to hear from all of you as soon as I can. I love you all so much.
Sincerely,
Elder Adair
Dear Mom,
Seeing that I only have 30 minutes to write emails in the MTC, I would prefer to send you letters. I have much more time to think and write what I intend to say. It's been a crazy week for you guys and me! Letter should come today.
Your Son,
Elder Adair
My first week of the MTC!!! How fantastic!!!
I have truly loved it since I got here. It has been such a blessing to me! My companion, Elder Elrey, is a fantastic example of someone who absolutely loves to work. My district here in the MTC is PHENOMENAL!!! Their spirit is so strong and their knowledge and insight in the gospel is outstanding. I have already learned so much - about feeling the spirit, about knowing the doctrine, and about loving all those I come in contact with. It's amazing how the Lord blesses each of our lives if we just do the simple things; if we pray, read the scriptures, know it is true, believe with all your heart to be true, live what you know, love what you know, and share all you know, the Lord blesses our lives far beyond our comprehension.
In all honesty, I haven't felt very homesick. Rather, I felt right at home with all these Elders: Elder Elrey (my companion), Elder Fitt, Elder Wilson, Elder Decker, Elder Stoker, Elder Kupfer (my District Leader), Elder Bohn, Elder Mortenson and Elder Valgardson. The first 5 named missionaries are going with me to the New York Rochester Mission. The last four, unfortunately, are going to Orlando, Florida. Not that there mission isn't as cool as ours (though it isn't :P ), but I've created such a brotherhood with all my district, and it is going to be hard to not see them for 2 years.
I have been absolutely blessed with the opportunity to serve a mission! I love you all! For those of you preparing to serve missions, here are some tips for the MTC:
#1 - Hit the ground running. Never get distracted by the things you left behind. When you get that tag, you are immediately called to the Lord's work. The Lord works fast and with purpose and with power. Be ready for the challenge.
#2 - Don't expect to take everything in. They WILL throw a lot of information on you the very first day you enter. It doesn't slow down. Remember that when you feel like you can't do it. "For with God, nothing is impossible."
#3 - Love your companion. Love your district. Be ready to create a bond with them like you never have before. If you do, coping with the previous tips makes it a lot easier and more fun to do what you're supposed to do.
#4 - Prepare to grow. Somewhere in 1 Corinthians 13 states what every missionary should do to understand the value and virtue of the Lord's work.
Here in the MTC, we are given 30 minutes to right a crazy fast email. My fingers are cramping, but my love for all of you grows. I want to hear from all of you as soon as I can. I love you all so much.
Sincerely,
Elder Adair
Dear Mom,
Seeing that I only have 30 minutes to write emails in the MTC, I would prefer to send you letters. I have much more time to think and write what I intend to say. It's been a crazy week for you guys and me! Letter should come today.
Your Son,
Elder Adair
Friday, July 23, 2010
First letter from Elder Adair
This experience is already turning out to be such a blessing. I have seen so many people already! Just from orientation alone, I ran into Elder Sazo, Elder Kaufusi, Sister McGuire and Elders I knew from school! What a blessing it has been to be around so many worthy brothers and sisters!
My MTC Companion is Elder Elrey. He is the Elder that got in touch with me on facebook months ago (you know the one that I was really confused about.) What a strong testimony he has! Just one day with him and I feel the blessings already pouring in. He's a little older (23), but you can more than tell how committed he is to the gospel. I am very blessed and excited to start my journey with someone so strong!
The MTC is Awesome!!! I wasn't able to eat alot of food, though.I think it was Fuddruckers. But the Elders in my district and zone are absolutely phenomenal. It's going to be an awesome 2 years. I can't wait! Pictures are coming soon, I promise.
I love you all so much and can't thank you enough for your love and support! These next two years are going to be fantastic, both for me and you . As the days go on, I hope I will get a handle on the schedule & routine. You are always in my prayers and hope to hear from you soon. I love you all so much!
With much love,
Elder Adair
My MTC Companion is Elder Elrey. He is the Elder that got in touch with me on facebook months ago (you know the one that I was really confused about.) What a strong testimony he has! Just one day with him and I feel the blessings already pouring in. He's a little older (23), but you can more than tell how committed he is to the gospel. I am very blessed and excited to start my journey with someone so strong!
The MTC is Awesome!!! I wasn't able to eat alot of food, though.I think it was Fuddruckers. But the Elders in my district and zone are absolutely phenomenal. It's going to be an awesome 2 years. I can't wait! Pictures are coming soon, I promise.
I love you all so much and can't thank you enough for your love and support! These next two years are going to be fantastic, both for me and you . As the days go on, I hope I will get a handle on the schedule & routine. You are always in my prayers and hope to hear from you soon. I love you all so much!
With much love,
Elder Adair
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