4/1/1984 - 4/7/1984
Dear President,
This week was a "sick" week. I got sick the Sunday you were here (4/1). I guess nature played a practical joke on me, but it wasn't too funny, because I still feel the effects of it. On that Tuesday (4/3), my companion went with Elder Bennett's companion and worked, and I stayed home and had a good talk with Elder Bennett. We started planning our weeks out more and implementing the yellow planner, and we're going to inform all the other Elders to use it because it does help! For me my mission has been a great big "school" because I learn many lessons. For instance, lately I've seen a lot of comparing together of a lot of the Elders. And comparing ourselves to someone else doesn't help us at all. Then I picked up the January 1984 Ensign and read an article about our comparative thinking. All I need to do is just measure myself against myself and not against another person. Because if I worry about catching up to others it really just gets me frustrated and I give up. That's how it hurts us. The article says we always look at ourselves as the worst, and that is true for me. I figure myself as the worst missionary and it hasn't helped me too much to think that way. So I'm going to try to change that attitude.Thanks for the days you spent with us here. I sure love you. Don't do anything Spencer W. Kimball wouldn't do! Love, Elder Monson
P.S.: Sorry all the reports are late!
4/8/1984 - 4/14/1984
Dear President,
This past week was kind of bad, but not really. We lost quite a bit of time in our area but really helped out Uman. We had kind of a rushed zone conference Monday (the 9th) so we could make the Uman yama (boat) in time. But we were late and didn't make it. So we went the next day Tuesday. After meeting with them for several hours that night, I decided to leave Wednesday morning. But we missed the Wednesday morning boat so we stayed and split with the Elders there Wednesday, and had an excellent day with them. The first half of the day I went with Puleiku, the second half, Christensen. I sure do love them. They are doing real good. They're happy about the work, but Christensen is nervous about teaching them. For me, teaching is easy; its contacting and getting appointments I'm not so good on, while Christensen is really good at it. I guess that's why they put us in pairs, right? We didn't teach as many as we wanted that week (in Sapuk), but we did make a couple of new contacts.We also helped Sister Carlson with a primary party all day Saturday. It was sure a riot. My companion's back has been hurting lately and we went to the hospital and he got x-rayed. The results: he has a bad back, but there's nothing they can do about it, and its just a condition he'll have to live with. I don't know why, but I slightly still have the cold I had when you were here. It's taking its time going away. Take care and "stay in":! (In tune, in time, and in spirit!)
Love, Elder Monson
4/15/1984 - 4/21/1984
Dear President Keeler,
Well, we have a scheduled baptism, but having a hard time to get her to come out to church. Her mother on Uman, Elder Christensen and Elder Puleiku will bring in and they can be baptized together. Her husband even has the priesthood so we'll have him baptize her. She at least seems happy about that.
This past week went well, especially the visit to Dublon. We only stayed one night and a meeting about the yellow planners and planning and goals, and also a meeting on the gospel subject "Faith". Faith is interesting. Its a key, but also power, and its something you can grow and cultivate.
I'm really loving the job of visiting all the Elders and it helps me understand their situations a lot when I get to work with them. Thanks for the opportunity.
I would also like to thank you for 2 other things. The organ was a big surprise to me, and to the members on Sunday. I'm the only one this side of the island who knows how to play it. I practiced for Sunday and it went well. Only thing is that it could be a little louder, but that's okay. We've been waiting a long time for it and we sure love it. I'm going to start giving lessons right away. Thanks also for the Japanese pamphlets. There is a half-Trukese here (an older man) that has been schooled in Japan, and can read Japanese a lot better than Trukese, and he sure loves the material.
They probably already know, but could you tell the office staff thanks, and then also ask them can they get a Book of Mormon in Japanese. Also, I requested quite a few mantles for the Coleman lanterns and they need them badly. If what they have breaks, they can't buy any more now because there's a shortage. Thanks, and I sure love you. Elder Monson
4/22/1984 - 4/28/1984
Dear President,
This last week I'm writing for, was interesting. I got to visit Elder Mote's island, Romanum. The people there were really friendly, and the work I did with Tauki Uvea was really excellent. That island is probably the most beautiful I've ever seen. They are handling things very well despite their circumstances. You know; slow water supply, no privacy, and other things.
Their island is sure small, and it took about a half day for both pairs of us to circle it and talk to everyone on the way. I also helped Elder Carlson haul some materials for a water tank. It will be very beneficial for them. One of the members told me "Now, you see how bad it is, so go back and tell them how bad it is". Its kind of bad. Its getting kind of dry right now and so their little trickle of water is going slow. But Elder Carlson is getting things going. Right now, for a lot of my investigators, I'm doing fellowshipping work. That's been one of my challenges, so I'm trying to correct it. That's kind of a dumb problem, isn't it? I should be doing that automatically.
I'm still having those "fun days", where one day I understand everything said, and the next [day] its like I don't even know the language. Blea.
One thing I'm really learning to conquer is the journal. It sits there, seemingly laughing at me for not writing in it all that I should. You know how it is. You get behind and you just say to yourself, "tomorrow, tomorrow, tomorrow", and it never gets done. I bet your journal doesn't laugh at you!
Love, Elder Monson
P.S. Please tell the office to hurry on the things I've ordered. Especially the mantles for the lanterns. Mote got his that he requested, but I haven't received the ones I requested.
Sunday, March 3, 2019
Micronesia/Guam - Reports to the Mission President March 1984
3/4/1984 - 3/20/1984
Dear President,
We had a very good zone conference this past week, everyone bearing strong testimonies. I love this district. I sure learn much every week. This past week, I learned how important my journal is, just from the fact a read exactly what I did last year on Guam. I try to write as much as I can daily. That way I get the thoughts of the day, instead of just weekly events. Its interesting. We're getting another investigator coming out to church, and he's so neat. We gave him the baptismal challenge, and we talked a while about his wife. His wife is a very strong Protestant and he doesn't know if she'll allow his baptism. She avoids us when we come over, but we've got to work out the problem somehow this week. I'm a bit worried at times about for our seminary teacher. I help her to prepare the lessons because she doesn't have any English speaking students, so we have to work with it and translate needed things, etc. She does a great job though. Hey! I've almost got the "getting up at 5am" problem solved. It's becoming more and more regular and I'm happy about it. It really gets us going, especially of our companion study. Also I hear tell that President McBride will be going through soon and I will ask him this question. One of the families in Sapuk has been building a completely separate room, and I believe they will also build some facilities for showering and a bathroom and a place for stove. My question is, could we move in? It will be in the same house and in an area where there are members and non-members, but the room will have its own door, and windows. Any advice? I'll try to confirm the details this week. Love, Steve
3/11/1984 - 3/17/1984
Dear President,
Aside from keeping me companion awake while I teach the discussions in Trukese, I'm doing okay. We're expecting to have Thomas baptized the 7th of April if his wife will allow it. Thanks a million for putting Elder Baird as my companion. He's learning the language well and he has certainly got me going. I've also received a ton of help from the other Elders. My attitude for myself is changing for the better. I've been berating myself my whole mission and refusing to see the good I've done, therefore discouraging myself from doing more. I think my attitude and my priorities could still use a lot of changing, but it's going in the right direction. My dad has quit writing me often. I try to write him every two weeks, but maybe that's not enough. Sure would be nice if you could come for a visit again. Love always, Elder Steve
3/18/1984 - 3/24/1984
Dear President,
I want to thank you a lot for sending Pres. McBride out to help us out and meeting with us. He probably told you that he changed our zone meeting schedule to every 3 weeks, instead of every 2 weeks. That's okay. It was brought up, then changed. There was a small concern from other Elders to change it back, so I don't know. Last week wasn't so fruitful, because a lot of our appointments fell through. We're going to get some this week. (Get more.) My dad has quit writing and I'm a little concerned about it. Maybe its because I don't send regular letters like I should. I'm sure not having any money problems thanks to my dad. Pres. McBride made me D.L. I've been doing the reports for it all along anyway. Thanks for everything! Love, Steve
3/25/1984 - 3/31/1984
Dear President,
Things are going a bit slower than I'd like. I think I better refine some of my techniques (teaching and conversation). I've been spending a bit too much on only language, and my scripture memorization and scriptural content memory is going down. Can you believe, the other day this guy told us that there was no sin, and I forgot about the scripture in 1 John 1:8! I was beside myself! I don't believe I forgot such a dumb thing. Since you've been here, I've come to know my responsibilities more and to go about fulfilling them better. Well, concerning the week before, Elders Christensen and Puleiku came in because Elder Puleiku's back was hurting him, and he wanted to see a doctor. So, last Wednesday we split up and hit Sapuk with the 4 of us and tracted. That evening Elder Puleiku got to see a doctor. We got quite a few return appointments from that and we're following up this week. Thanks! Love, Elder Monson
Dear President,
We had a very good zone conference this past week, everyone bearing strong testimonies. I love this district. I sure learn much every week. This past week, I learned how important my journal is, just from the fact a read exactly what I did last year on Guam. I try to write as much as I can daily. That way I get the thoughts of the day, instead of just weekly events. Its interesting. We're getting another investigator coming out to church, and he's so neat. We gave him the baptismal challenge, and we talked a while about his wife. His wife is a very strong Protestant and he doesn't know if she'll allow his baptism. She avoids us when we come over, but we've got to work out the problem somehow this week. I'm a bit worried at times about for our seminary teacher. I help her to prepare the lessons because she doesn't have any English speaking students, so we have to work with it and translate needed things, etc. She does a great job though. Hey! I've almost got the "getting up at 5am" problem solved. It's becoming more and more regular and I'm happy about it. It really gets us going, especially of our companion study. Also I hear tell that President McBride will be going through soon and I will ask him this question. One of the families in Sapuk has been building a completely separate room, and I believe they will also build some facilities for showering and a bathroom and a place for stove. My question is, could we move in? It will be in the same house and in an area where there are members and non-members, but the room will have its own door, and windows. Any advice? I'll try to confirm the details this week. Love, Steve
3/11/1984 - 3/17/1984
Dear President,
Aside from keeping me companion awake while I teach the discussions in Trukese, I'm doing okay. We're expecting to have Thomas baptized the 7th of April if his wife will allow it. Thanks a million for putting Elder Baird as my companion. He's learning the language well and he has certainly got me going. I've also received a ton of help from the other Elders. My attitude for myself is changing for the better. I've been berating myself my whole mission and refusing to see the good I've done, therefore discouraging myself from doing more. I think my attitude and my priorities could still use a lot of changing, but it's going in the right direction. My dad has quit writing me often. I try to write him every two weeks, but maybe that's not enough. Sure would be nice if you could come for a visit again. Love always, Elder Steve
3/18/1984 - 3/24/1984
Dear President,
I want to thank you a lot for sending Pres. McBride out to help us out and meeting with us. He probably told you that he changed our zone meeting schedule to every 3 weeks, instead of every 2 weeks. That's okay. It was brought up, then changed. There was a small concern from other Elders to change it back, so I don't know. Last week wasn't so fruitful, because a lot of our appointments fell through. We're going to get some this week. (Get more.) My dad has quit writing and I'm a little concerned about it. Maybe its because I don't send regular letters like I should. I'm sure not having any money problems thanks to my dad. Pres. McBride made me D.L. I've been doing the reports for it all along anyway. Thanks for everything! Love, Steve
3/25/1984 - 3/31/1984
Dear President,
Things are going a bit slower than I'd like. I think I better refine some of my techniques (teaching and conversation). I've been spending a bit too much on only language, and my scripture memorization and scriptural content memory is going down. Can you believe, the other day this guy told us that there was no sin, and I forgot about the scripture in 1 John 1:8! I was beside myself! I don't believe I forgot such a dumb thing. Since you've been here, I've come to know my responsibilities more and to go about fulfilling them better. Well, concerning the week before, Elders Christensen and Puleiku came in because Elder Puleiku's back was hurting him, and he wanted to see a doctor. So, last Wednesday we split up and hit Sapuk with the 4 of us and tracted. That evening Elder Puleiku got to see a doctor. We got quite a few return appointments from that and we're following up this week. Thanks! Love, Elder Monson
Sunday, August 12, 2018
Micronesia/Guam - Reports to the Mission President February 1984
1/29/1984 - 2/4/2014
Dear President,
Boy, what a busy week. Wilsons neighbors on Dublon invited us over for a big dinner on P-day. We all discussed it and we all decided (including Carlsons) it would be more of a missionary effort than a play activity, so we went. That took almost all of P-day, but we did get back in time for shopping and FHE. We also had to do quite a bit of "run around" for some of Mundinger's requests. We sent a bunch of stuff he asked for on one of the boats. Zone conference was special and awesome as usual. And the day after it was really sad to see him go. And the next day coming back through we were glad to meet him and his comrades. I hope when I go home I can take the same route!! Seminary wasn't too hot this Saturday because only one student was on the island. So I didn't give it. Was surprised to find I'm going to Uman with Elder Christensen and Puleiku. I hear it's hot on Uman! Thanks for everything. Love, Steve
P.S. We didn't baptize the person we listed for last week (Towise Stanis) because he quit coming to church.
2/5/1984 - 2/11/1984
Dear President,
It took us a while to get off to Uman this week. Fujita keeps troubles and delays, so I decided to go to Uman without waiting for it to be completely settled. Wilson said all the judge had to do was "sign the paper". I couldn't figure out why it took that long. I still don't know if he's on Dublon yet. We'll find out tomorrow. We had a real hassle getting here on Uman. Monday and Tuesday the Uman boats were rented out. But, we did get a speed boat Tuesday night and got over here. We walked around the island a couple times and taught some excellent discussions where the Spirit was strong. Elder Christensen is sure a good Elder. We also have started having companion study regularly and no English speaking among ourselves ever. It's great! Being away from running water and electricity is a little harder, but the blessings and freedoms we do have on this island are overwhelming. For instance, we have a nice house with furnishings. This is a nice place too. Never hot (only if the wind doesn't blow) and if the alarm doesn't get us up the 6 o'clock sun shining in our faces does. I like this place better than Moen. It's different out here but more native and, shall I say, "jungle like"!
Love, Steve
2/12/1984 - 2/18/1984
Dear President,
This week we got sick of our low hours and finally wrote up a strict goal, and started seeing some good contacts. I'm very happy I'm helping Christensen out, along with Puleiku. Neither one knows the language as well as I do, but I'm far from perfect. But we still have been having some real good discussions, a lot of them new. But, according to Christensen, we have more families and investigators to get ahold of and continue teaching. That's good, and I'm glad to be busy. It's fun! Talking to them in Trukese! Let me tell you an interesting story. You know I have a capped tooth on one of my front teeth, and its kind of a prestigious thing and the people remember me as "Kimba" (capped tooth). Its kind of fun! We're teaching a complete family that loves us and we sure love them! I'm looking forward to their baptisms! Well, I better run. I'll be going to Uman in a bit. Later!
Love you, Steve
2/19/1984 - 2/25/1984
Dear President,
I want to thank you a million for sending President McBride to our district conference to help us out. I think our meeting lasted a little over 4 hours. I felt the Spirit present and I was energized by the enthusiasm. It's great to see so many lives changed for the better. That's what the gospel is all about, isn't it? A big thing I learned this week is that the people will all accept the gospel if only we can present the truth to the them in a way they can understand and accept. Because the Catholics and Protestants have a great hold on the people with their false doctrines. Also, they're depending upon them for translations of the bible, and alls they have to do is slightly alter the translation, and walla! Their religion conforms with the bible. It makes me mad they've messed up 1st Corinthians 15:22, saying all in Christ will be resurrected, instead of all will be resurrected. You just have to kind-of work at it. We had a terrific zone conference with President McBride. I sure love him. The branches always seem to have a feeling among themselves that "Uman is #1" or "Mwan is #1", or "Sapuk is #1". Everytime I turn around they ask me who is #1. I have to keep telling them they're all #1. Then they'll say everyone else is #0 and that they don't like the other branches at all. At times they're not joking. I wish we could have some kind of activity that would dissolve that kind of feeling between everyone. I think I have felt it somewhat in the states, in my own ward against another ward. What makes us think we're all better than everyone else? We have a little of the "Nephite disease". We shouldn't feel we're better than everyone else, but rather we should feel we should become better and help others along the way.
How can I thank the Lord for all that he's taught me here? I'm trying to extend myself to try to get more hours in and quit being so lazy and half hearted about the truth. I should be all or nothing. But I'm on a mission so I should be all. I was quite surprised at Elder Baird's size when I saw him, but I quickly learned to love him. He is so great! And he really is getting into Trukese. He is sure a big help. I had to teach the seminary Saturday because Emy, the seminary teacher, went fishing. But I think I did a pretty good job! It was fun and I could ramble on about Jonah and his mission call. The two scheduled for baptisms (Dasiada Wanter & Towais Stanis) , I haven't talked to them about a date and I need to have a more thorough discussion about it. I'm pretty sure they'll be baptized soon.Have you decided who will be District Leader here? I'm doing the reports since I'm on Moen, but I haven't been designated as such or anything. If you remember can you please send out a bunch more of these forms? Thanks! Love, Steve
2/26/1984 - 3/3/1984
Dear President,
Lifes Great! Well, we did a major change in the schedule and put it in effect. We slept from 9 to 5 and follow the regular schedule, but its just shifting the starting times and ending times. We're teaching Martino's wife. He is a member we baptized about 3 months ago. A lot of Romonum people got baptized, and two of the people I baptized are part of a family Mote is baptizing next week! Lately, things have been picking up. Especially with my new companion Elder Baird, he's really "kicking" me to get me going. Literally. He has to kick me out of bed at 5am, because I never hear the alarm. The Lord is helping me more, on the account of my speeding up. I actually see how He is! I talk to someone and don't know quite what to say, and He helps me, or prompts them to ask questions, so I can answer, and start rattling on and on. Speaking of rattling, doing the 5th discussion was easy. Well, not really easy. Can't wait to hear from you again. Love, Elder Monson
Dear President,
Boy, what a busy week. Wilsons neighbors on Dublon invited us over for a big dinner on P-day. We all discussed it and we all decided (including Carlsons) it would be more of a missionary effort than a play activity, so we went. That took almost all of P-day, but we did get back in time for shopping and FHE. We also had to do quite a bit of "run around" for some of Mundinger's requests. We sent a bunch of stuff he asked for on one of the boats. Zone conference was special and awesome as usual. And the day after it was really sad to see him go. And the next day coming back through we were glad to meet him and his comrades. I hope when I go home I can take the same route!! Seminary wasn't too hot this Saturday because only one student was on the island. So I didn't give it. Was surprised to find I'm going to Uman with Elder Christensen and Puleiku. I hear it's hot on Uman! Thanks for everything. Love, Steve
P.S. We didn't baptize the person we listed for last week (Towise Stanis) because he quit coming to church.
2/5/1984 - 2/11/1984
Dear President,
It took us a while to get off to Uman this week. Fujita keeps troubles and delays, so I decided to go to Uman without waiting for it to be completely settled. Wilson said all the judge had to do was "sign the paper". I couldn't figure out why it took that long. I still don't know if he's on Dublon yet. We'll find out tomorrow. We had a real hassle getting here on Uman. Monday and Tuesday the Uman boats were rented out. But, we did get a speed boat Tuesday night and got over here. We walked around the island a couple times and taught some excellent discussions where the Spirit was strong. Elder Christensen is sure a good Elder. We also have started having companion study regularly and no English speaking among ourselves ever. It's great! Being away from running water and electricity is a little harder, but the blessings and freedoms we do have on this island are overwhelming. For instance, we have a nice house with furnishings. This is a nice place too. Never hot (only if the wind doesn't blow) and if the alarm doesn't get us up the 6 o'clock sun shining in our faces does. I like this place better than Moen. It's different out here but more native and, shall I say, "jungle like"!
Love, Steve
2/12/1984 - 2/18/1984
Dear President,
This week we got sick of our low hours and finally wrote up a strict goal, and started seeing some good contacts. I'm very happy I'm helping Christensen out, along with Puleiku. Neither one knows the language as well as I do, but I'm far from perfect. But we still have been having some real good discussions, a lot of them new. But, according to Christensen, we have more families and investigators to get ahold of and continue teaching. That's good, and I'm glad to be busy. It's fun! Talking to them in Trukese! Let me tell you an interesting story. You know I have a capped tooth on one of my front teeth, and its kind of a prestigious thing and the people remember me as "Kimba" (capped tooth). Its kind of fun! We're teaching a complete family that loves us and we sure love them! I'm looking forward to their baptisms! Well, I better run. I'll be going to Uman in a bit. Later!
Love you, Steve
2/19/1984 - 2/25/1984
Dear President,
I want to thank you a million for sending President McBride to our district conference to help us out. I think our meeting lasted a little over 4 hours. I felt the Spirit present and I was energized by the enthusiasm. It's great to see so many lives changed for the better. That's what the gospel is all about, isn't it? A big thing I learned this week is that the people will all accept the gospel if only we can present the truth to the them in a way they can understand and accept. Because the Catholics and Protestants have a great hold on the people with their false doctrines. Also, they're depending upon them for translations of the bible, and alls they have to do is slightly alter the translation, and walla! Their religion conforms with the bible. It makes me mad they've messed up 1st Corinthians 15:22, saying all in Christ will be resurrected, instead of all will be resurrected. You just have to kind-of work at it. We had a terrific zone conference with President McBride. I sure love him. The branches always seem to have a feeling among themselves that "Uman is #1" or "Mwan is #1", or "Sapuk is #1". Everytime I turn around they ask me who is #1. I have to keep telling them they're all #1. Then they'll say everyone else is #0 and that they don't like the other branches at all. At times they're not joking. I wish we could have some kind of activity that would dissolve that kind of feeling between everyone. I think I have felt it somewhat in the states, in my own ward against another ward. What makes us think we're all better than everyone else? We have a little of the "Nephite disease". We shouldn't feel we're better than everyone else, but rather we should feel we should become better and help others along the way.
How can I thank the Lord for all that he's taught me here? I'm trying to extend myself to try to get more hours in and quit being so lazy and half hearted about the truth. I should be all or nothing. But I'm on a mission so I should be all. I was quite surprised at Elder Baird's size when I saw him, but I quickly learned to love him. He is so great! And he really is getting into Trukese. He is sure a big help. I had to teach the seminary Saturday because Emy, the seminary teacher, went fishing. But I think I did a pretty good job! It was fun and I could ramble on about Jonah and his mission call. The two scheduled for baptisms (Dasiada Wanter & Towais Stanis) , I haven't talked to them about a date and I need to have a more thorough discussion about it. I'm pretty sure they'll be baptized soon.Have you decided who will be District Leader here? I'm doing the reports since I'm on Moen, but I haven't been designated as such or anything. If you remember can you please send out a bunch more of these forms? Thanks! Love, Steve
2/26/1984 - 3/3/1984
Dear President,
Lifes Great! Well, we did a major change in the schedule and put it in effect. We slept from 9 to 5 and follow the regular schedule, but its just shifting the starting times and ending times. We're teaching Martino's wife. He is a member we baptized about 3 months ago. A lot of Romonum people got baptized, and two of the people I baptized are part of a family Mote is baptizing next week! Lately, things have been picking up. Especially with my new companion Elder Baird, he's really "kicking" me to get me going. Literally. He has to kick me out of bed at 5am, because I never hear the alarm. The Lord is helping me more, on the account of my speeding up. I actually see how He is! I talk to someone and don't know quite what to say, and He helps me, or prompts them to ask questions, so I can answer, and start rattling on and on. Speaking of rattling, doing the 5th discussion was easy. Well, not really easy. Can't wait to hear from you again. Love, Elder Monson
Micronesia /Guam - Reports to the Mission President January 1984
1/1/1984 - 1/7/1984
Dear President,
What a week! I didn't get much sleep on New Years because [of] all the noise. I started re-teaching a man and his wife Mote had taught on Romonom, from the 4th discussion on. He is asking for baptism. I love golden contacts, especially out here. I think he will be baptized in two weeks. I can already tell he is going to be an excellent member; he likes coming with us to visit our investigators. It seems I've been at the hospital this whole past week. A non-member wife of one of our members was in. We helped her out. A member was in the hospital with appendicitis. My companion has developed a slight ulcer and we spent almost half a day getting to a doctor. He's feeling better now. Plus the one member from Mwan, who started riding our bicycle before we knew it got in an accident that left him in a coma. And since he needs two people to watch him 24 hours a day, all of us missionaries have spent several 4 hour shifts at the hospital. What a "sick" week. The Lord has sure helped me lately and gave my faith a big boost. I'm so happy for that. Love, Steve Monson
1/8/1984 - 1/14/1984
Dear President Keeler,
I had a good, and busy, week! We baptized the man I'd thought we'd be a while on. He sure was excited and glad to be baptized. We were glad to help him. He lives on Romunum but was staying with his grandchildren in Sapuk. Mote had taught him on Romunum the first discussion and I finished them up. He's going to be a very good member! We haven't finished filling out his records yet, but we'll have them finished and sent in a couple weeks. I think maybe in a few more weeks we will have two more baptisms. You know I didn't realize how much the Lord is looking after us all until an interesting event happened this week. I've heard of people "helped" and "protected" by the Lord, and I thought I'd never be in a situation like I was in. I felt the Lord's hand influence my actions this week and it was humbling to me. I had felt that I had never had any spiritual or sacred experiences and never would have, until what happened this week. Boy, have I discovered the power of fasting. It's amazing what can be done with some fasting and prayer. Sometimes its hard to fast for me though, because of the heat I use an unusual amount of water. Also, I'm on a diet too because I've kind of "lost myself" and eaten too much. I'm 35 lbs overweight (since I came out). More later. Love, Elder Steve Monson
1/15/1984 - 1/21/1984
Dear President,
I had some really good discussions this week. We taught the 5th discussion to one guy who speaks English and that was one heavy discussion. We started getting into faith and he wanted to know a definition of faith. I gave him Hebrews 11:1 (and asked him to also read the whole chapter on his own) and I explained faith as best as I know how. We're trying to get the big family at Sapuk to do their own family home evenings, and Elder Carlson is sure doing a good job with them. He's helped them run their own for the past two weeks and with excellent success. Now if we could get the families to have their own home evenings. We challenged our 16 year old investigator Towise. He seems happy about that, although now he's not coming to church. What do I do? I hate my journal (when I get so far behind, anyway). The Lord sure works in weird ways, but he gets the job done. You almost get excited to see what he'll do next to help us out. I'm gaining a greater love for Him. At times I think I really hate myself, and when I really get thinking about it, I am really more blessed that I realize. Have a wonderful day! Love, Steve
P.S. Sapuk is still waiting for the organ you promised the first day you talked to them.
1/22/1984 - 1/28/1984
Dear President,
This week was great. I'm improving my time scheduling and getting more accomplished. We have a baptism scheduled next week but it will have to be delayed. Our investigator quit coming to church. We're trying to meet with him and ask him what the deal is, but we can't find him. He came to church a lot before. The Tongans and the Carlsons had some more of those free Trukese classes given by the Peace Corp, so part of this week I spent with Bennett and we worked both sides of the island. Emy and Yoss and coming back out regularly and doing everything we ask them! I couldn't figure it out. Before, they didn't do their jobs, but since the Carlsons have come they're really picked up. I feel sorry I didn't do much to help them but I didn't know what to do. I know the Carlsons were called to come here and they're doing their job well and I'm so glad. Emy is now teaching seminary more regularly and they are a big help to us in translating the Book of Mormon story book. I sure love them. If we can get them to really get excited about the work, Sapuk could become independent. But, of course, they will always have our support and help. We had an excellent meeting with Roy Bower when he stopped through. I'd love to see that seminary program take off here. Thank you president, for all your work. Love, Steve
P.S. Sometimes you won't get all the weekly reports at once because I ask them to fill out, and send them as I get them.
Dear President,
What a week! I didn't get much sleep on New Years because [of] all the noise. I started re-teaching a man and his wife Mote had taught on Romonom, from the 4th discussion on. He is asking for baptism. I love golden contacts, especially out here. I think he will be baptized in two weeks. I can already tell he is going to be an excellent member; he likes coming with us to visit our investigators. It seems I've been at the hospital this whole past week. A non-member wife of one of our members was in. We helped her out. A member was in the hospital with appendicitis. My companion has developed a slight ulcer and we spent almost half a day getting to a doctor. He's feeling better now. Plus the one member from Mwan, who started riding our bicycle before we knew it got in an accident that left him in a coma. And since he needs two people to watch him 24 hours a day, all of us missionaries have spent several 4 hour shifts at the hospital. What a "sick" week. The Lord has sure helped me lately and gave my faith a big boost. I'm so happy for that. Love, Steve Monson
1/8/1984 - 1/14/1984
Dear President Keeler,
I had a good, and busy, week! We baptized the man I'd thought we'd be a while on. He sure was excited and glad to be baptized. We were glad to help him. He lives on Romunum but was staying with his grandchildren in Sapuk. Mote had taught him on Romunum the first discussion and I finished them up. He's going to be a very good member! We haven't finished filling out his records yet, but we'll have them finished and sent in a couple weeks. I think maybe in a few more weeks we will have two more baptisms. You know I didn't realize how much the Lord is looking after us all until an interesting event happened this week. I've heard of people "helped" and "protected" by the Lord, and I thought I'd never be in a situation like I was in. I felt the Lord's hand influence my actions this week and it was humbling to me. I had felt that I had never had any spiritual or sacred experiences and never would have, until what happened this week. Boy, have I discovered the power of fasting. It's amazing what can be done with some fasting and prayer. Sometimes its hard to fast for me though, because of the heat I use an unusual amount of water. Also, I'm on a diet too because I've kind of "lost myself" and eaten too much. I'm 35 lbs overweight (since I came out). More later. Love, Elder Steve Monson
1/15/1984 - 1/21/1984
Dear President,
I had some really good discussions this week. We taught the 5th discussion to one guy who speaks English and that was one heavy discussion. We started getting into faith and he wanted to know a definition of faith. I gave him Hebrews 11:1 (and asked him to also read the whole chapter on his own) and I explained faith as best as I know how. We're trying to get the big family at Sapuk to do their own family home evenings, and Elder Carlson is sure doing a good job with them. He's helped them run their own for the past two weeks and with excellent success. Now if we could get the families to have their own home evenings. We challenged our 16 year old investigator Towise. He seems happy about that, although now he's not coming to church. What do I do? I hate my journal (when I get so far behind, anyway). The Lord sure works in weird ways, but he gets the job done. You almost get excited to see what he'll do next to help us out. I'm gaining a greater love for Him. At times I think I really hate myself, and when I really get thinking about it, I am really more blessed that I realize. Have a wonderful day! Love, Steve
P.S. Sapuk is still waiting for the organ you promised the first day you talked to them.
1/22/1984 - 1/28/1984
Dear President,
This week was great. I'm improving my time scheduling and getting more accomplished. We have a baptism scheduled next week but it will have to be delayed. Our investigator quit coming to church. We're trying to meet with him and ask him what the deal is, but we can't find him. He came to church a lot before. The Tongans and the Carlsons had some more of those free Trukese classes given by the Peace Corp, so part of this week I spent with Bennett and we worked both sides of the island. Emy and Yoss and coming back out regularly and doing everything we ask them! I couldn't figure it out. Before, they didn't do their jobs, but since the Carlsons have come they're really picked up. I feel sorry I didn't do much to help them but I didn't know what to do. I know the Carlsons were called to come here and they're doing their job well and I'm so glad. Emy is now teaching seminary more regularly and they are a big help to us in translating the Book of Mormon story book. I sure love them. If we can get them to really get excited about the work, Sapuk could become independent. But, of course, they will always have our support and help. We had an excellent meeting with Roy Bower when he stopped through. I'd love to see that seminary program take off here. Thank you president, for all your work. Love, Steve
P.S. Sometimes you won't get all the weekly reports at once because I ask them to fill out, and send them as I get them.
Sunday, March 4, 2018
Micronesia/Guam - Reports to the Mission President December 1983
12/4/1983 - 12/10/1983
Dear President,
This past week on p-day I and my companion had to go on a hike to find a certain house. A boy had stopped me on the road and told us he wanted us to teach him. He then pointed to the mountains and he said "I live up there". We eventually found and taught his family. I also placed a Book of Mormon and we're going to go back soon and help him with the "thee"'s and "thou"'s and "thine"'s. I'm going to try to send in some language material this week to have it copied up. Thanks! Love, Elder Monson
Dear President,
This past week on p-day I and my companion had to go on a hike to find a certain house. A boy had stopped me on the road and told us he wanted us to teach him. He then pointed to the mountains and he said "I live up there". We eventually found and taught his family. I also placed a Book of Mormon and we're going to go back soon and help him with the "thee"'s and "thou"'s and "thine"'s. I'm going to try to send in some language material this week to have it copied up. Thanks! Love, Elder Monson
12/11/1983 - 12/17/1983
Dear President,
I had to spend a bit of time on broken bikes again this week.We shouldn't have any more problems anymore. And between rain and the power going out at night several times, this has been a slow week. Although I did get some good teaching done. If we can get one of our investigators, Thomas, out to church, I think we'll baptize him. We got the Carlson's car this week, but no Carlsons. We keep going to the airport (well, not me always but Bennet tries) and we keep thinking "... the next flight for sure". We'll keep trying. Thanks! Love, Steve
12/18/1983 - 12/24/1983
Dear President,
The Carlson's really surprised us by coming on a day when there weren't supposed to be any flights. They came up and said "Is this the elders apartment?" We just about hit the floor. It's great to have them here. I'm excited! They're so neat! They're really going to help out in Sapuk. Monday we had a great p-day. Everyone came in and found all the care packages piling up on the floor. What a wild mess! I was fixing a huge dinner in the midst of the confusion. The next day (Tuesday) we had our conference. It was so good hearing from everyone. Especially the news and testimonies in Trukese! I got a bad cold that lasted through from Wednesday to Friday. Even now while I'm writing this I'm just barely recovering. I'm okay now. The Sapuk branch had a Christmas party on the 24th that was really good. I loved the food! You can sure tell I loved it; I'm fat. I've gained 25 lbs since I've come on my mission. Hope you had a great Christmas. Thanks for your card! Love, Steve
Dear President,
The Carlson's really surprised us by coming on a day when there weren't supposed to be any flights. They came up and said "Is this the elders apartment?" We just about hit the floor. It's great to have them here. I'm excited! They're so neat! They're really going to help out in Sapuk. Monday we had a great p-day. Everyone came in and found all the care packages piling up on the floor. What a wild mess! I was fixing a huge dinner in the midst of the confusion. The next day (Tuesday) we had our conference. It was so good hearing from everyone. Especially the news and testimonies in Trukese! I got a bad cold that lasted through from Wednesday to Friday. Even now while I'm writing this I'm just barely recovering. I'm okay now. The Sapuk branch had a Christmas party on the 24th that was really good. I loved the food! You can sure tell I loved it; I'm fat. I've gained 25 lbs since I've come on my mission. Hope you had a great Christmas. Thanks for your card! Love, Steve
12/25/1983 - 12/31/1983
Dear President,
This Christmas was okay. The Sapuk branch had a special presentation which was fairly good. It was only fairly good because I spoke last. Just kidding. I did get to speak and I spoke of the 3 births we go through to return to Father. Physically, by the water, and then [birth of] the spirit. We got some excellent Joseph Smith pamphlets in Trukese given to us, but we need a lot more. I've given away 3 so far and the people love to read these things in their own language. There are 2 investigators that are so neat. One is reading the Book of Mormon. I invited them out to church in the nicest way I know and offered to pick them up, yet they haven't come (yet).Well, I take that back,. They've come once but they're not coming any more. They give various excuses. Now that I think about it, it might have been the people in the branch not being too nice. I think I'll talk to them about it. Thanks president for your love and concern for me and my companions here. Love, Steve
Sunday, February 25, 2018
Micronesia/Guam - Reports to the Mission President November 1983
11/6/1983 - 11/12/1983
Dear President,
It's still going great. I'm teaching the discussions without a translator now, and it is interesting. I seem to be able to speak with less problems, but I still have trouble understanding what they say back. I've talked to the other Elders and they have the same problem. This is going to be my greatest challenge. Its easy to memorize words, and lines of a discussion, but there needs to be a good program to help understand what others say. I guess it just comes about by memorizing lots of words and listening. It was good to see you and Elder Marvin J. Ashton. It was also very thoughtful of you to bring and give us some cookies, filmstrips, a church film cassette, and also General Conference. We watched 2 sessions, and the next time we went to see another session, the machine we had broke so it might be a couple more weeks before we can see the rest of the conference sessions. I hope you don't need those tapes again soon.
The Huffs told us we might be getting a new couple to replace them soon, and even an additional couple. We have looked a little for another apartment. I don't know how much the Huffs have looked. I talked to Herta (our land-lady) and she said she might make the big storage building next to our houses into an apartment. I told her we might need to find another apartment to rent for an extra couple. Then she said "I'll build that into an apartment then." Then I told her not to do it just for us because we weren't sure if we'd get another couple or not. All the Elders around the various outer islands here are going to come in the 21st of this month for our first zone conference. We'll have it every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month. Will you do me a favor President? Please drop me a note and tell me how one of those meetings is supposed to run. I remember you saying we should start and end with a song and a prayer and bear our testimonies in the meeting. What else? (besides a business account from each elder). Does that make me a "zone leader" because I'm the most senior on this island? Just joking! Love, Elder Monson
11/13/1983 - 11/19/1983
Dear President,
The work is so great. I'm speaking and understanding so well! It's pretty fun. We all went to a special meeting (a FHE) at the Mwan chapel that was so neat! The spirit was so strong there. It was at that place I realized that the Lords spirit is here on this island and he wants us to work at it. We're sad to be having the Huffs leave, and glad that they could serve here. Just yesterday we had our very spiritual first zone conference on Truk. It was super! I love what I'm [doing] here! I found a book of the first 24 lessons of the Gospel Principals book and I would like to send it soon so we could get more copies. Also, there are I think other things we've found that are Trukese that we'd like to get copies of later. Thank you and lots of love, Elder Monson - Be a Smiler- I try to be :-)
1120/1983 - 11/26/1983
Dear President,
I sure wish we had more materials translated for our meetings, etc. The distribution center in Salt Lake in not answering our letters for additional copies of our small hymnbooks. They have printed up the copies we have now, and they're taking an awful long time printing up more. With all of our expansions, etc, we need so many more hymnbooks. this week I sealed an anointing and gave a blessing in Trukese! It was hard, and I did it a little slow, but it came out alright. Who is going to be the next president in Sapuk? Will it be long before another is selected? They're going to need one bad now that Elder Huff is gone. Love, Elder Monson
11/27/1983 - 12/3/1983
Dear President,
This week was sure busy, and sad, the Huffs leaving. It sure seems empty, not having them here. We still hold our devotionals where we have a song, a prayer, spiritual thought, and of course, our Trukese thought. We had a special zone meeting the 30th (the day the Huffs left) where everyone from the outer islands came. We have planned our next meeting to be the 19th of this month, where the elders will get to meet the new couple and we'll have a special Christmas dinner that night. It should be great. My seminary class went great. I taught them about Moses and the tabernacle, and that they followed the cloud when it moved. It's fun teaching seminary, especially when the students help you. Its really strange; there are some days I understand everything everyone says in Trukese, and some days I understand beans. I've been doing more bible study lately (Trukese bible) to work on the language. The bible itself is not a doctrinaly correct, but it helps a lot more with the language because its newer. The language actually changes over the years. Anyway, take care and I'll write again soon. Love, Elder Monson
Dear President,
It's still going great. I'm teaching the discussions without a translator now, and it is interesting. I seem to be able to speak with less problems, but I still have trouble understanding what they say back. I've talked to the other Elders and they have the same problem. This is going to be my greatest challenge. Its easy to memorize words, and lines of a discussion, but there needs to be a good program to help understand what others say. I guess it just comes about by memorizing lots of words and listening. It was good to see you and Elder Marvin J. Ashton. It was also very thoughtful of you to bring and give us some cookies, filmstrips, a church film cassette, and also General Conference. We watched 2 sessions, and the next time we went to see another session, the machine we had broke so it might be a couple more weeks before we can see the rest of the conference sessions. I hope you don't need those tapes again soon.
The Huffs told us we might be getting a new couple to replace them soon, and even an additional couple. We have looked a little for another apartment. I don't know how much the Huffs have looked. I talked to Herta (our land-lady) and she said she might make the big storage building next to our houses into an apartment. I told her we might need to find another apartment to rent for an extra couple. Then she said "I'll build that into an apartment then." Then I told her not to do it just for us because we weren't sure if we'd get another couple or not. All the Elders around the various outer islands here are going to come in the 21st of this month for our first zone conference. We'll have it every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month. Will you do me a favor President? Please drop me a note and tell me how one of those meetings is supposed to run. I remember you saying we should start and end with a song and a prayer and bear our testimonies in the meeting. What else? (besides a business account from each elder). Does that make me a "zone leader" because I'm the most senior on this island? Just joking! Love, Elder Monson
11/13/1983 - 11/19/1983
Dear President,
The work is so great. I'm speaking and understanding so well! It's pretty fun. We all went to a special meeting (a FHE) at the Mwan chapel that was so neat! The spirit was so strong there. It was at that place I realized that the Lords spirit is here on this island and he wants us to work at it. We're sad to be having the Huffs leave, and glad that they could serve here. Just yesterday we had our very spiritual first zone conference on Truk. It was super! I love what I'm [doing] here! I found a book of the first 24 lessons of the Gospel Principals book and I would like to send it soon so we could get more copies. Also, there are I think other things we've found that are Trukese that we'd like to get copies of later. Thank you and lots of love, Elder Monson - Be a Smiler- I try to be :-)
1120/1983 - 11/26/1983
Dear President,
I sure wish we had more materials translated for our meetings, etc. The distribution center in Salt Lake in not answering our letters for additional copies of our small hymnbooks. They have printed up the copies we have now, and they're taking an awful long time printing up more. With all of our expansions, etc, we need so many more hymnbooks. this week I sealed an anointing and gave a blessing in Trukese! It was hard, and I did it a little slow, but it came out alright. Who is going to be the next president in Sapuk? Will it be long before another is selected? They're going to need one bad now that Elder Huff is gone. Love, Elder Monson
11/27/1983 - 12/3/1983
Dear President,
This week was sure busy, and sad, the Huffs leaving. It sure seems empty, not having them here. We still hold our devotionals where we have a song, a prayer, spiritual thought, and of course, our Trukese thought. We had a special zone meeting the 30th (the day the Huffs left) where everyone from the outer islands came. We have planned our next meeting to be the 19th of this month, where the elders will get to meet the new couple and we'll have a special Christmas dinner that night. It should be great. My seminary class went great. I taught them about Moses and the tabernacle, and that they followed the cloud when it moved. It's fun teaching seminary, especially when the students help you. Its really strange; there are some days I understand everything everyone says in Trukese, and some days I understand beans. I've been doing more bible study lately (Trukese bible) to work on the language. The bible itself is not a doctrinaly correct, but it helps a lot more with the language because its newer. The language actually changes over the years. Anyway, take care and I'll write again soon. Love, Elder Monson
Micronesia/Guam - Reports to the Mission President October 1983
10/2/1983 - 10/8/1983
Dear President,
It's been great to have you here. Since you've now learned about everything that is going on here and have given your advice, we'll now act on it. This past week we had 2 seminary classes. We usually have only one a week, but I wanted to show them two good filmstrips about Abraham. They are captioned filmstrips and simple and easy to read. T. M Mailo helped us translate one of them. When we went to the second seminary class, we showed them the one filmstrip and I read the Trukese translation to every frame. The second one I translated off the top of my head, only missing one or two (or three or four) words. I can speak Trukese far better than I can understand it. I need somehow to drastically sharpen and build my understanding skills. Will write you again soon. Hope you had a good time on Truk. Feito ikei sefani non ekis fansoun. Am meinisin tongei en me Sister Keeler.
Tong seni, Elder Monson
10/9/1983 - 10/15/1983
Dear President,
I taught me first seminary lesson all by myself in Trukese. What I did was show another filmstrip and translated the captions in Trukese, and talked a little about the film before I showed it. The volley ball is great! The net too. On that day we made everyone quit playing and come to seminary! One time at Sapuk (I think the 2nd day after they got the net and ball) I counted 60 youth hanging around the area. They were all taking turns playing. I'm glad they have it. Thank you. I've raised my sights and goals a lot more, thanks to you. Love, Elder Monson
P.S.: Upwe chechemeni en ese much.
10/16/1983 - 10/22/1983
Dear President,
The biggest problem I'm having is understanding what the people are saying. I guess I'll have to listen more closely and think ahead. Mote said he learned how to understand English by listening to people speak it. I better start listening more people. We've challenged [someone] for baptism and it looks like he'll some through. I feel good about it. I turned 20 years old this past week, and I still feel like 16. Time seems to go too fast. Since its easier for me to handle the reports, I'll be sending them in, along with the DL's report. (At Elder Mundinger's request.) He and Christensen are busy when they come in from Uman. That's all I have for now. Love, Elder Monson
10/23/1983 - 10/29/1983
Dear President,
Thank you very much for the birthday card! It's neat when you can listen to someone in another tongue and understand what he is saying! I was listening to one of the members the other day and it was fun 'cuz I knew what he was saying and I could talk back. I'm not perfect at it, but with more practice and study it'll come better. I can't wait to see you come and open up some new islands and bring more Elders. We have one more discussion with our baptismal candidate, and he is looking very hopeful to be baptized next week. Thank you and we'll see you soon. Love, Elder Monson
10/30/1983 - 11/5/1983
Dear President,
Thanks for coming in the other day with the new Elders and placing us. I always enjoy seeing you. Being a senior isn't all it's cracked up to be; especially when your companion can't even speak English well. I got to teach the first discussion a couple of times all by myself and I got to do it without a translator even. It was fun! Even a little exciting. Looks like I'll have to teach the discussions for a while by myself until my companion learns enough Trukese. Our one member Joss is so super. He is always looking for guys that we can teach. In fact our baptism was one of his friends. He gives us a Trukese lesson every time we go to his house. He helps us every chance he gets. We sure appreciate the bikes. Everybody wants to ride them all the time, including Joss. Kilisou me kene nom! Love, Elder Monson
P.S.: When is the organ you promised Sapuk going to come? Or do you know? Thanks.
Dear President,
It's been great to have you here. Since you've now learned about everything that is going on here and have given your advice, we'll now act on it. This past week we had 2 seminary classes. We usually have only one a week, but I wanted to show them two good filmstrips about Abraham. They are captioned filmstrips and simple and easy to read. T. M Mailo helped us translate one of them. When we went to the second seminary class, we showed them the one filmstrip and I read the Trukese translation to every frame. The second one I translated off the top of my head, only missing one or two (or three or four) words. I can speak Trukese far better than I can understand it. I need somehow to drastically sharpen and build my understanding skills. Will write you again soon. Hope you had a good time on Truk. Feito ikei sefani non ekis fansoun. Am meinisin tongei en me Sister Keeler.
Tong seni, Elder Monson
10/9/1983 - 10/15/1983
Dear President,
I taught me first seminary lesson all by myself in Trukese. What I did was show another filmstrip and translated the captions in Trukese, and talked a little about the film before I showed it. The volley ball is great! The net too. On that day we made everyone quit playing and come to seminary! One time at Sapuk (I think the 2nd day after they got the net and ball) I counted 60 youth hanging around the area. They were all taking turns playing. I'm glad they have it. Thank you. I've raised my sights and goals a lot more, thanks to you. Love, Elder Monson
P.S.: Upwe chechemeni en ese much.
10/16/1983 - 10/22/1983
Dear President,
The biggest problem I'm having is understanding what the people are saying. I guess I'll have to listen more closely and think ahead. Mote said he learned how to understand English by listening to people speak it. I better start listening more people. We've challenged [someone] for baptism and it looks like he'll some through. I feel good about it. I turned 20 years old this past week, and I still feel like 16. Time seems to go too fast. Since its easier for me to handle the reports, I'll be sending them in, along with the DL's report. (At Elder Mundinger's request.) He and Christensen are busy when they come in from Uman. That's all I have for now. Love, Elder Monson
10/23/1983 - 10/29/1983
Dear President,
Thank you very much for the birthday card! It's neat when you can listen to someone in another tongue and understand what he is saying! I was listening to one of the members the other day and it was fun 'cuz I knew what he was saying and I could talk back. I'm not perfect at it, but with more practice and study it'll come better. I can't wait to see you come and open up some new islands and bring more Elders. We have one more discussion with our baptismal candidate, and he is looking very hopeful to be baptized next week. Thank you and we'll see you soon. Love, Elder Monson
10/30/1983 - 11/5/1983
Dear President,
Thanks for coming in the other day with the new Elders and placing us. I always enjoy seeing you. Being a senior isn't all it's cracked up to be; especially when your companion can't even speak English well. I got to teach the first discussion a couple of times all by myself and I got to do it without a translator even. It was fun! Even a little exciting. Looks like I'll have to teach the discussions for a while by myself until my companion learns enough Trukese. Our one member Joss is so super. He is always looking for guys that we can teach. In fact our baptism was one of his friends. He gives us a Trukese lesson every time we go to his house. He helps us every chance he gets. We sure appreciate the bikes. Everybody wants to ride them all the time, including Joss. Kilisou me kene nom! Love, Elder Monson
P.S.: When is the organ you promised Sapuk going to come? Or do you know? Thanks.
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