A Labor of Love

Hey everyone!

I wonder if I have previously mentioned how quick the weeks seem to be coming past. Looking back, it doesn't seem so long ago since I have sent out my last general E-mail to all of you. Either way, I am enjoying serving out here in the mission field. Elder Stacey is learning a lot out here, and being his trainer, I am learning quite a bit too. I do not wish to be transferred from him any time soon, but if it must happen, then I am alright with that.

I'm sure you are wondering what I had done on Labor Day, as it is considered a holiday. Well, the day was kicked off with a nice breakfast for the Young Elders - scones and bacon. I do enjoy scones, but I have never thought of enjoying them for breakfast until now. Who knows, perhaps I may try it sometime myself, it was delicious! Only problem is the amount of vegetable oil required for such a task... Anyway, after all this, the Young Elders gathered for a movie, the name of which escapes me. After that, we went back to the apartments for lunch. It was there that the district which I am in was asked to help set up dinner at the home of President and Sister Fenn. We were, of course, more than happy to help out! So, we went to the sports activity for about a half an hour, then we left early to help set up dinner. The dinner itself was delicious - nothing quite like slow-cooked barbecue brisket. After this, President Fenn shared a short spiritual thought, and we went back home for bedtime. I quite like breaks like this, it's good to unwind for a day and have a little good, wholesome fun together. However, after that, it was, of course, back to work.

This last Wednesday, I had an opportunity to have my monthly interview with President Fenn. At this interview, we discussed me, and my training Elder Stacey. I was doing well, though there were things which needed improvement. It was good to have a reminder of how important this duty was - he takes training very seriously, and I do not want to let him (or anyone else for that matter) down. We also talked about the new exercise program. I have sometimes felt like there was more I could do for the exercise program, though I was told that I was doing well. So, I have taken this interview to heart, and I hope to use it to become a more effective missionary.

Yesterday was a bit of a Missionary Celebration Day, or something like that. We were invited to come in a little earlier than usual so we could enjoy a free breakfast. It seemed that the entire Data Security zone was there enjoying the food! After that, we returned to find our cubicles decorated with Hawaiian-style decor (this Hawaiian stuff does seem to be a recurring thing, I have noticed). There was even an activity for missionaries to go looking around their floors for Hawaiian words, and deciphering their English counterparts. A little later, there was a light lunch provided for us as well. I don't even think this was exactly a mission thing - I noticed that, instead of missionaries, it was our paid staff leaders helping out with getting everything ready. So, all in all, it is good to be appreciated, and I am grateful for their kindness.

However, the work was more intense that very day - Our district leader, Elder Duran, was sick, so he and his companion had to stay home. And so, the calls started coming, and they did not stop coming. There is usually some room in between calls to work E-mail cases and do other things like that, but there was not so much breathing room this time. In all honesty, it was kind of fun to work like that - tiring, but fun. Anyway, while I was at work, I learned that it was actually Elder Duran's birthday that day. And so, me, my companion, and the other companionship in the district collaborated to have a birthday celebration of some sorts, including a birthday cake and a present we all bought at Deseret Book, a book titled "Precept Upon Precept".

Anyway, that's my week. Thanks again for supporting me in my mission (I hope that doesn't sound a bit redundant by now). Do ask if you have any questions or comments. Have a good week everyone, I look forward to talking to you again next week!



From,

Elder Bryce Petersen



Challenge: In modern revelation, we have been asked to be "anxiously engaged in a good cause" (D&C 58:27). So, what does that mean? At first glance, this passage of scripture seems to suggest that we must always be doing something to further the work of the gospel, which is correct. We are expected to live our lives in a manner which is in harmony with our being members of the restored gospel. However, this scripture does not say that this only applies to gospel-related endeavors. To me, this scripture brings to mind the question, "How are you spending your free time?" We all have free time to some extent or another - if we did not, then we would all burn out pretty quick. Even for the die-hard workaholic, time to cool down is important, so that, if nothing else, he or she may become a more effective worker. However, it is how we spend that free time which is important. We could spend it relaxing, or browsing the web, or watching television. Of course, these things are not necessarily bad, but if that is how we spend all of our free time, then there may be a problem. There are many good and wholesome hobbies out there to take up, such as cooking, writing, exercising, or even volunteering, to name a few. So, my challenge for you is this: ask yourself how you are spending your spare time. If you don't think you will be proud of how you are doing so in ten years, then it may be time to pick up a wholesome hobby of some sort. You may choose which one it is, though there are three criteria: it must be, of course, in harmony with the teachings of the gospel, it must be wholesome and productive, and it must be enjoyable. Then, try and make it part of your routine. If it does not turn out to be as interesting as you had first thought, then choose a different one which meets these criteria. If you can find something wholesome to become anxiously engaged, then you will find that your life becomes that much more rewarding and enjoyable!