Thursday, October 23, 2014

Dear Family,

I'm doing so well, and am so happy to be a missionary. I didn't know that I could love the scriptures as much as I do. I'm constantly studying God's word and the Korean language. There's rarely a minute that I'm not learning something. Lately, our district has been doing a good job of speaking Korean to each other conversationally. The only way to really learn a language is through practical application. Although I'm beginning to get mildly comfortable with speaking Korean to my teachers and friends, I know I'm in for an awakening once I get to Korea. That being said, I'm so thrilled to have the chance to struggle and let the spirit guide me in my teaching and hard work. I'm beginning to get a little antsy here in the MTC. I know that there's always room to become a better missionary, but I really, really want to get to Korea. The living conditions here are good. Also, thank you much for the package I got today. I gobbled up both musubi in a matter of minutes. Thanks for keeping me filled in with the family. I miss everyone so much, but there's no where else I'd rather be than on my mission. God gave me this opportunity to serve for a reason, and I've got to make the best of it. For God, for the people at home who helped to get me out here, and for the families and individuals of Busan, I must give it my all. 

We've taken to spending our gym time playing sand volleyball at 6:30 AM. That's been a whole lot of fun. I'm really crummy at volleyball though. 

If I could give any of my siblings advice it's to be grateful for what you've been given. God gives us so much, we just have to choose to see it. Also, do your best to study the scriptures and understand the gospel of Jesus Christ. This week, I read the gospel according to John. My heart broke as I read about Peter denying his knowledge of Christ. At this point Christ had lost his spiritual brother Lucifer, had been cast out and abuse by people who were supposed to be his kinsmen, and now the individuals closest to him had left him abandoned. His apostles, his brothers, had left him alone. I found myself at the verge of tears as I came to realize that despite the transgressions that had been committed against him, Jesus still had the love to forgive us and finish his work. At the heart of this gospel, there's love. We're given a testimony and a witness by the spirit in order for us to turn outwards, love others, and serve wholeheartedly. This mission has nothing to do with me. 

Spencer: I'm glad to hear you're doing alright. I miss you a ton too, dude. I can personally testify that Patriarchal blessings are from God and have specific relevance to us. Also regarding feeling mildly alienated from our friends. Dude, that's one of the reasons I left. I love my friends, but sometimes we have to make decisions that will allow us to progress. If you keep doing the right thing, others will take notice.

Brooke: Way to share the gospel. It's so important that we're aware of our beliefs that way when it comes time to share the gospel, we'll be ready. Do your best to study the scriptures. I'm sure you're familiar with the stories and concepts of this gospel, but when you study the scriptures your understanding grows tenfold. Also, be a careful dater and don't get a boyfriend or I'll punch him in the head all the way from South Korea.

Eliza: I hope you know your sisters look up to you. You've honestly been blessed with a lot of talents, and I hope you can recognize what the Lord gives you. Katie wrote me a letter about how pretty and talented you are and that it bums her out when you don't recognize that. I feel like you're one of the smartest individuals I've come in contact with. That being said, don't let anger, frustration, or self doubt get the best of you. I used to have a hard time believing it before, but those crummy thoughts come directly from the adversary. Because you're a child of god, you have the ability to tell satan to get away from you. Do what you can to grow close to the gospel, Eliza. The teachings of this church will have your back in times of need.

Katie: You're so talented! I'm happy to hear that you're developing your talents. I would also say that you should add reading the scriptures to your list of books. They're the most true books I've ever read. Also, I wake up at 6:30 every morning. I spend about five hours studying and six hours in class. It's very busy, but that's the only way we'll be ready to teach about the gospel in the Korean language.

Lilly: I'm sorry to hear about your bad day. Don't let it get you down. You should say a prayer when you are feeling sad! Ask heavenly father to help you to not cry, but be strong and handle your problems. Also, how is ballroom? Who is your partner? is it...Rudy? Hahaha, I'm just kidding. Keep me filled in with the fun things that you do. You're also becoming a very talented writer.

Mom: I want you to know that I'm thankful for you. Your efforts to raise me to be a good person weren't in vain. Also, I keep my clothes hung up and my room clean. I know I was not great at that at home, but the values you've instilled me with have stuck. For example I try to put others needs before mine and I also snack on chalk when I get a minute. I hope you get some sleep soon. It's kind of been a struggle for me to fall asleep as well. Not to the same extent as you though. Also, thanks for keeping me filled in on the little things. I was not at all surprised to hear about smashing an egg between his fingers. He's the same kid who broke a flip phone in half with a small amount of effort. He's a strong dude.

Dad: Thanks for the musubi! I'm so glad that you're going to the temple. Yet again, I'm so thankful that you were such a good example of a priesthood holder to me as I grew up. I really enjoy your letters that you send me daily. It's funny, isn't it? The Lord doesn't change our trials, but rather makes us aware of ways to handle them. Prayer, temple attendance and gratitude are soooo important. Thanks for raising me, Pops.

Tanika: How are you doing? You probably get to see Spencer a whole lot more now that I've had to put a cease to our custody battle. In all seriousness, I'm glad to hear your doing well. I think you serve as a good example to Spencer, but more importantly the others around you. I don't know why, but I feel prompted to encourage you to share the gospel with your family. If you feel prompted to do the same, go right ahead and do so. The spirit will never dupe you into doing something you shouldn't.

Telles Family: A NEW BABY OH MY GOODNESS! That's so exciting! Please send pictures when the child comes! Also, I'm doing very well. I'm glad to hear that all of you kids are actively engaged with school and other hobbies. Make sure you find time to read scriptures and pray too. I know I say it a lot, but really, these two things will help you so much with whatever you're struggling with. Learn that lesson while you're young!

Mylroie family (my spelling is atrocious, I know): I'm glad to hear that you're all doing good as well! I don't think the MTC is doing anything for Halloween, but the idea of a residence hall trick-or-treat nigh has been kicked around. Also, West, I'm super jealous that you have the new SSB. I played quite a bit of SSB 64 before I left on my mission. Just ask Spencer about how often I beat him. I'm sure he'd love to tell you all about it. Also, I will try to remember the Top Hat of Truth lyrics about Mary Todd. If not, I'll just write another one before the devotional.

Also, Aunt Alayna and Ronnie, how is Steph doing? I'm sad I missed your visit. Hanging out during the fall with your family is always such a blast. Also, Ronnie, are you going to date Sawyer? I see that you have yet to respond to that question? I hope this paragraph gets posted to my blog.

Anyway, That's about all for the week. God lives. Jesus is our brother, and he loves us. Because he loves us, we should love on another. I know that by doing so, our self satisfaction will grow. We'll be filled with the spirit and we can come to know God and his will. Pray often, study the scriptures and the Lord will allow our challenges to become simple. I bear you my humble testimony in Christ's name, Amen.

From,
Elder Samuel Loa Tuinei

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Dear Family,

Conference weekend was excellent. This was the first time I was able to really cherish the words of God's Prophet and Apostles. You start to really understand the awesome spiritual tools God has given you when you use them. The strong spirit I feel here, the words of living Prophets and Apostles and the scriptures provide me with so much guidance. It's like I've lived my whole life super oblivious to the blessings the Lord as been provided me with. For whoever reads this, I hope you understand that the chances we get to learn and worship are important. Christ would not have spent his final night on Earth teaching his apostles about the sacrament if it was not important. Everything we need is given to us. We just need to choose to see them. 

There's so much to be positive about. I find myself getting less frustrated and more willing to let things slide. For example as my district and I were walking into our dorm we were belting out pop ballads by The Fray. An old man who was cleaning the building took great frustration to our singing. Maybe he really hates The Fray. Maybe he was just distraught about young men singing pop music. Anyway, the Old man shouted at us as if we were committing some heinous crime. "HEY, HU-UGH-UMM, THAT'S ENOUGH OF THAT!" Instead of being salty I kinda just laughed and quieted down.

On a more serious not, the presence of the spirit is honestly very tangible. I feel myself being inclined to say and study certain things. The Korean language is coming fairly quickly, but I worry that I'll be so lost once I get to Busan. As a result of that worry, I've been making it a point to try to speak Korean whenever I can. The efforts are paying off. 

God asks us to do things for reasons. Even though I don't understand why I need to use a specific planner, follow certain rules, I trust in the fact that God will never try to dupe me. He's a merciful God who works on a system of justice. There's a lot of solace in knowing that.

Spencer: College sounds ridiculous. I want more stories about CoolGuy Cody and Black Panther Paul. I run into people here who have some really strange opinions and tendencies, but Its fine because we're all on the same team. We're united in purpose, so as weird as they are, it's easier to love them. Also, that's so rad that you met Court McGee (spelling?). Are you still massive? Everyone around here knows you as Elder Tuinei's Masculine Brother. Also, please continue to pray. It's such a blessing that we can communicate with God. Also, regarding your statements about faith. Maybe read Ether 3. I love how it states that The Brother of Jared no longer had faith in God, but had an absolute knowledge. Firm faith, or knowledge for lack of a better work, comes through the decision to believe and act accordingly. If you have a desire to learn, to know, to serve, to grow closer to God, he'll provide a way for you to do so. Keep me filled in with your life, Brother.

Brooke: I'm thoroughly jealous of you getting to perform. Shakespeare competition last year was soooo fun, and I know you'll enjoy it just as much this year. As you go through at HS, let the spirit guide you. Please don't take his companionship or the scriptures for granted as I did. 

Eliza: Thanks for the letter. Honestly, dude. I know exactly how you feel. All through out middle school and high school, I didn't feel like I fit in any where. The people my age annoyed me. If I can offer you any advice it's to love your peers despite there imperfections.  But good news, the people I felt like I was missing out on turned out to be in different cities and states everywhere. I just had to wait till we all wound up at the MTC together. Good vibes, little Sis.

Katie: I miss you tons, dude! You're ability to write is honestly growing so much! It's no surprise that you've been chosen to represent your class for that writer's conference. Keep developing your talents and hobbies. The ability to read and write (and play volleyball) will help you in the years to come.

Lilly: I'm sorry about your guinea pig. It's quite a shame that Bubba, or Sparks, or whatever his name is passed away. I'm glad you're not too broken up about it though. Stay fresh, young padawan and keep sending me letters and comics!

Dad: God answers prayers. Thanks for your letters. I read them aloud to the elder's in my district and we all get a good laugh. Thanks for serving your mission so many years ago. I know when you left it took a lot of faith, but I know we've been blessed because of it. You influenced my decision to serve and in turn I'll influence others in foreign lands. The gospel spreads, and spreads. I remember as a young kid, I was so touched when you would tell me about the tough times your family went through, but then later shared with me that Because I Have Been Given Much was your favorite hymn. Your willingness to recognize your blessings has really allowed me to do the same, and as a result I have such a strong desire to serve. I'm so proud to be your son.

Mom: I'm glad to hear that subbing is getting better. The importance of planning has been something that's kind of hit me hard recently. Thank you so much for all of the letters and packages. I hope you find some sleep. It takes me a minute to fall asleep here too. It also doesn't help that one of my roommates has the loudest snoring and worst smelling farts ever. I get to practice my quiet dignity all of the time! Even when I'm trying to go to bed! I love it! In all seriousness, I'm so glad to be here.

Auntie: Thank you so much for writing and sending me noodles. How is Steph doing? Also, I'm soooo jealous of you guys eating at China Garden. Cafeteria food just doesn't measure up :/

Ronnie: Are you and Sawyer going to date.

Well, that's my update for the week. The church is true. If we have a desire to learn, all we must do is ask God and he'll provide a way for us to know. PMG states that the ultimate expression of love to Christ is by sharing his Gospel. Because I love Christ, I fear no more and desire to be swallowed up in the belly of his work. 

With Love, 
Elder Samuel Loa Tuinei

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

Dear Family,

I'm still doing well. I think I'll always be doing well. That's what's so cool about the spirit. As long as I'm living worthy, I'll have his constant companionship and will be able to get over whatever struggle or problem that I'm facing. Korean is coming quickly. I love the language so much. My testimony is also growing a ton. There's not a day that passes where I don't have some kind of truth revealed to me. I'm constantly given the chance to humble myself, repent and love more.

I'm slowly growing out of my "make-fun-of-everyone" mentality. It's hard though. It takes a lot for me to not turn around and mock the utter goonery that goes on around me sometimes. Keeping my mouth shut about the awkward scarf and sweater combos I see here, along with the amount of "I'm pretty sure George Bush is the greatest president to live" statements, is the hardest thing for me. This week we got new Elders on our floor. The Korean elders seem nice, but a little goofy. I'm sure we came off the same way though. It's hard for me to watch some of these English speaking Elder's on my floor waste their time by coming back to the residence hall to sit around, or by yelling during quiet time. I never thought I'd be one to care about rules, but I'm starting to appreciate some of them. We're here to serve a mission. This isn't EFY or Youth Conference. Just like Spencer W. Kimball said, we've been literally set apart from the world. One of the teachers in our building pulled us into a room after hearing us being rowdy, and began to teach us. He spoke with such a calm spirit about him. He left us with the words "You are no longer your own". That's stuck with me ever since. I'm still Sam. I still love the things I love retain my same personality, but my will is now the Lord's, and that's what's important.

This week we were able to host new missionaries. Well, kind of. When we all met up for the pre-hosting meeting Harkness and I were picked out of the group of about 50 missionaries to go do traffic duty. Essentially all we did was wear neon yellow jackets and point at parking spots. As lame as that sounds, it was really enjoyable! As I watched crying parents leave their kids at the curb I had a huge desire to let them know that this is the BEST thing for their kid. Also, many people waved and smiled at me as they left. I think being a brown person with a friendly demeanor goes a long way.

Harkness and I have been able to teach with the spirit a lot more lately. I can testify that as we're willing to pray about others, and study with them in mind, the Lord will provide a way for us to meet the needs of others. It's such an excellent feeling to be lead by the spirit. I look back now and am kinda shocked with how much I took the spirit's companionship for granted. No alcohol related language mix ups this week.

Also, thank you so much for the noodles and drinks. I would love some more. Also, if you plan on dropping off perishable food, you can't send it through the mail room. They confiscated my buddy Glover's burrito. Just bare that in mind.

We're all getting along really well. We study hard every single day. For entertainment we watch this banana that was tossed on the roof the first day we got here decompose. It started at a bright green and has slowly developed into a shriveled up black.

Also, a follow up on my Virginian's-Like-To-Throw-Stuff theory. Elder Willis received a letter from his family which read to the effect of:
"We missed you while we were picking apples in the orchard. I did not miss however constantly having to ask you to stop throwing apples at me."

Coincidence? Not at all.

Spencer- Thanks for the lyrics and the stories. I've been reading them aloud to get a good laugh out of the elders in my district. Also, as far as music, I have the whole Nujabes/Hideout collection downloaded. Have Sawyer teach you how to torrent stuff. Also, I strongly advise to pray and read daily. I feel so much guidance in my life when I do these things. Also, I told everyone about the time you were followed home by some guy and when you got out of the car, the follower yelled "Next Time!" and sped off as fast as he could. That's quoted daily.

Brooke- I'm so sorry about your sternum, but I'm not entirely surprised that that's how it happened. I hope you get better soon. Just keep resting and have faith that the blessing will do something for you.

Eliza- Be nice to your mom. lolololol. Also, please stretch and warm up before you play volleyball. It will greatly decrease the chance of being injured. Take it from someone who used to rip their pants open and hurt their back all of the time. Also, be confident in your ability when you play volleyball! Let me share a quote with you:

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take" - A billboard

Katie- What to heck is up? I haven't heard from you in a minute. Make sure you keep yourself busy, young one. Also, be wary of Victor and his secret doings. Sibuna. EYE TO EYE.

Lilly- I forgot to tell you! Your teacher's younger brother, Elder Anderson, was in the MTC with me! He left about two weeks ago. Funny story, I had to lend him my suit so he could get into the Sunday Night Devotional. The suit looked like a halloween costume on him. It was so baggy, but none the less he was able to get into the devotional.

Also, as far as my camera goes, it might be better to just send me a little point and shoot. If one exists, could you look into getting an LCD attatchment for my Go Pro?

Mom- I will pray for you as you study. I was cracking up reading about your experience subbing. I'm sure it'll get better with time. The first couple weeks here were rough for me as well,but with practice and the Lord's help things become easier.

Dad- After reading your letters I now realize where my desire to make fun of people comes from. I'm so glad to hear that new work opportunities are opening up. I've honestly been praying about that since I've got here. Remember to pray always and follow the spirit.

That's about it for my week. I've been loving the cold weather and the companionship of my fellow elders. The Book of Mormon is true. If we abide by it's teachings, we will become happier, better people. I can say this with certainty for I've seen it in my life. I love you all so much.

With Love,
Elder Samuel Loa Tuinei