tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7733303881215813882024-03-14T00:55:19.956+08:00Maligayang Pagdating sa Pilipinas!I will be serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Philippines, Manila Mission from January 2013 to June 2014.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15952799223352114416noreply@blogger.comBlogger101125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-28174551565705354712014-10-24T10:48:00.000+08:002014-10-24T10:48:43.648+08:00<div class="nH">
<div class="ha">
<h2 class="hP" id=":12m" tabindex="-1">
mga paa</h2>
</div>
</div>
Yesterday
I ate chicken feet and frog legs. mmmmmm. It was prepared Chinese
style, though. Not very filipino. The chicken foot slapped my face.
Buhay pa pala. See attached picture.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh man, WE HAD
AN AWESOME WEEK. We somehow squeezed in two exchanges and had members
working with us every day and met tons of families and potential
priesthood holders and had tons of referrals and loads of people came to
church and it was a perfect storm the beautiful things. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But I want to share a great experience about one of
our investigators. Her name is Nory. She is 60 years old but looks 40.
When we first met her, she was so angry. Not at us, but her heart was
just filled with anger. Her husband left her a few years ago because he
had another secret family. But the worst part is, the husband and his no
longer secret family just live down the street. If she wants to go
anywhere, she has to pass by their house. She really really hates her
husband. Like, it's scary. A few weeks ago, she was in a crazy mood and
it was late at night and we invited her to repent of her sins. She said,
"I have to kill someone before I repent." HUHHH? They she opened up how
she has a real desire to kill her husband. I was seriously terrified
and there was no spirit in the room at that moment. When we left, I
said, "I don't know if we should go back to Nory... she seems a little
unstable." But, a few days later, the Spirit led us back to her and we
are still teaching her. She is very diligent in reading the Book of
Mormon. This week, she shared with us something that was beautiful. She
doesn't want to kill her husband anymore! When she walks by his house,
she doesn't feel angry, she just feels sorry for him. She shared how,
through reading the Book of Mormon, she finally feels peace in her
heart. (And she learned how much God does not want her to kill
people...) It was a very spiritual lesson as she bore her testimony of
the Book of Mormon and it was just another testimony to me of how
sincere study and application of the Book of Mormon changes hearts and
changes people. Also, we were talking about how her heart used to be and
we said, "Pusong bato?" which is also the title of a famous song here
which means heart of stone. And she said, "Hindi. parang puso ni
Satanas." It was hilarious. But she was serious...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
That's all the time for now. We have a new mission president and it is apprehensive making. Love you!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-74965736064309672312014-07-12T04:10:00.001+08:002014-10-24T10:48:24.514+08:00<div class="nH">
<div class="ha">
<h2 class="hP" id=":146" tabindex="-1">
pag-jajogg<wbr></wbr>ing</h2>
This
last week was CRAZY TOWN, PHLS. We didn't have the opportunity to work
even one full day in our area. BUT, we did have the opportunity to do a
lot of faith building things. We met the new mission president's wife
and her husband. They are wonderful and I love them! They are so sincere
and just overflowing with the Spirit. And I'm not just saying that
because I know they've been reading the blog posts... :P We also had MLC
and interviews. Good stuff. I'm still learning so much! I still have so
much more to learn! </div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
One thing that I liked that President Ostler said was why
we so often change leadership in the Church. It's because God wants us
to put our trust in Him, NOT in people. It doesn't really matter who are
earthly leaders are. We need to turn to the Lord. He also shared with
me in our interview something that actually really helped me feel calm
and peace about the upcoming changes. It was just really simple. The
Lord wants to comfort us. Always. He wants us to feel His love and His
arms around us. But sometimes, matigas lang yung mga ulo natin. He just
said to just allow the Lord to comfort us. Let ourselves feel the peace
and His love. And that's what I'm doing because I'm obedient to whatever
the mission president says. :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh, I heard that JP (my recent convert from Pasay)
was called to serve as the 1st counselor in the elder's quorum! I told
you he would be a great leader in the church!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, Ester and Gelnie passed their baptismal interviews and will be baptized <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_748231459" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>
:) More families to prepare for the temple! There are so many miracles
here and I just really love love love being a missionary in the
Philippines.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-13810738615467765152014-07-12T04:02:00.000+08:002014-10-24T10:49:06.029+08:00<div class="nH">
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<h2 class="hP" id=":15z" tabindex="-1">
"I'm hovering to death!"</h2>
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^^^^ That's an example of the joy of teaching your companion English. Another is "finger foot".<br />
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<br /></div>
<div>
This week was beautiful, as always. We went to the temple. Lots of revelation. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We've been praying so hard for referrals, because
that is our biggest lack in our area (because there are only a few
members that live in our area) but this week we had a ton of miracles
and got member referrals from other wards! We just talked to members on
the jeep coming from stake conference and they know people in our area
and boom referral. It's awesome and it's a great way to see how God is
answering our sincere prayers. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I know my english is weird in this email. My brain
is tired and I don't want to try to be right because I woke up early and
haven't eaten yet. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This morning I woke up too
early because they made me go to Manila and get fingerprinted again. I
think this means they lost my first ones... Which is why i say to you
that I don't know if my exit visa will come in time. Sister Stucki told
me that she and President Stucki still haven't gotten their exit visa
and they go home in two weeks. Harrrr harr. My arrival is a mystery for
you.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week, everyone was sick. Two of the families we
are teaching were at the hospital on Sunday and weren't able to come to
church. That will delay their baptism. It's sad, but I'm trusting in
the Lord's timing and I know that if we strengthen our faith, we will
continue to see miracles in our area. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We had an awesome stake conference when Elder
Quentin L. Cook presided (over broadcast). It was great. It was like
General Conference but all the talks were directed to Filipinos. There
was a strong focus on families and it was really great for the people
we're teaching. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think this is it for now. I really am too weak
from hunger to upload pictures but there are many from our temple trip.
Stay tuned for next week. Love you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
ster mech</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-80578230405413584082014-07-12T04:00:00.001+08:002014-10-24T10:49:22.463+08:00<div class="nH">
<div class="ha">
<h2 class="hP" id=":111" tabindex="-1">
ganoon din</h2>
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</div>
This
week I was sick, I think the sickest I've been on my mission besides
Dengue. But, we have so many progressing investigators that we really
couldn't afford not to work. But, we could only find one ward missionary
to work with us! (If you have two, one can stay with the sick one at
the house and the other will work with the healthy one.) So instead, I
ordered a priesthood blessing and we were off to work! Mostly I just sat
there trying not to pass out while Sister Dumayas taught. We were so
blessed to not miss one moment of work because of my failing body! It
was seriously a miracle. That's when you know that Heavenly Father
really loves our investigators!<br />
<div>
</div>
<div>
This week we had so many investigators at church -
families! Bishop had stars in his eyes. He came up to me and said,
"Magaling ka, Sister Mecham." But I said, "Magaling po ang Diyos,
Bishop!" We really are seeing the Lord's hand in our work and I know all
we are doing to be worthy of it is giving our all - obedience and
diligence.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
I have no time for reals right now because of helping my dear momma. I love you!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-47270148287525010462014-07-12T03:59:00.001+08:002014-10-24T10:49:37.118+08:00<div class="nH">
<div class="ha">
<h2 class="hP" id=":111" tabindex="-1">
Napakaiksi ng panahon</h2>
</div>
</div>
Hey!
Emailing is stressing me out! Stop reminding me about going home! I'm
not ready yet! I'll just see you when I see you and we don't need to
talk about it.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week was too busy in the way I
don't like. We had MLC which is almost a whole day without work. But I
learned a ton and I know it will help me be a more effective servant of
the Lord. Then we had a special mission conference where Elder Craig C.
Christensen and Elder Echo Hawk spoke to us. It was seriously great. It
was also depressing because it was the last time we met together as an
entire mission before President and Sister Stucki go home. I have
seriously learned so much from them and they have made a huge impact on
my mission and my life. We also learned so much that I wish I learned
when I was new, but the Lord has His own timing. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh man, we're experiencing so many miracles. We're
finding the best people who are so prepared and they're really ready to
come unto Christ. I just feel so blessed to be the instrument in the
Lord's hands to help them do it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
There were too many emails this week. I have a lack of time now for you. Love you!Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-48893643420214605312014-07-12T03:53:00.000+08:002014-10-24T10:50:10.277+08:00<div class="nH">
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<h2 class="hP" id=":zg" tabindex="-1">
I'm going home.</h2>
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TO PALAWAN. HAH fooled you.<br />
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<br />
<div>
I really feel like I grew up on Palawan and I'm pretty stinkin' excited to go home there and see my second family.</div>
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<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our flight leaves in a few hours so this is going to be a great short email. Maybe not shorter than Ryan's...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Because I have a quick miracle to share with you:</div>
<div>
The
youth of our ward gave us one million referrals of people the met on
the street during their One Week Mission. Sister Dumayas and I have been
working hard to find and teach all of them. One of them led us to a far
away place in our area that we rarely go to because there are no
members and no investigators yet. We were led down a small street which
turned out to be completely the wrong place than what we were looking
for. (I really am finding it hard to express myself in english...) The
people there had no idea who we were talking about. But, Esther let us
in to teach her. Turns out she's dating a member in our ward. They've
been dating for 6 years. And she never wanted to learn anything about
the church. He always invited her, but nothin'. Then, as we were just
listening to her, her eyes get all teary and she says, "I don't know
what changed, but I'm ready now." She hasn't told her boyfriend yet that
she's super interested in the church, but she already told her parents
that she's going to be baptized. She was nervous to tell him and then
BOOM we just show up at her house and she was so surprised. It was
AWESOME. I don't know if I've ever tracted into anyone more prepared.
It's just a miracle. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was good to see your beautiful faces last week.
You all got fatter. (I swear that is not a mean thing to say if youre
filipino. They laugh at me when I tell them Americans are offended by
it.) That's okay, I'm fatter too. Too much food. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love you! Be safe! I still don't have definite
news when I will be returning home. You really haven't heard anything
from President Stucki? A bunch of missionaries in my batch say their
parents got something saying when their flight was...</div>
<div>
Maybe I'm really not coming home... :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
-Sister Mecham</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-79740784842001659332014-05-27T09:31:00.001+08:002014-05-27T09:31:53.484+08:00<div class="nH">
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Puerto Princeeeee<wbr></wbr>esaaaaa</h2>
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<span><img alt="" class="f gW" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/images/cleardot.gif" title="IMG_2829.JPG,IMG_2889.JPG,IMG_2971.JPG" /></span><span alt="Sun, May 25, 2014 at 7:48 PM" class="g3" id=":xi" title="Sun, May 25, 2014 at 7:48 PM">7:48 PM (23 hours ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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<div>
Yeah,
I spent the week in Puerto. It was amazing. I saw so many of the people
I found who got baptized after I left. I think there are too many
experiences in my brain to write them all to you.</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
The best was that I saw the Rosas family. I don't know if you
remember, but I opened the area over there in Puerto Branch 2. There was
absolutely no one there that the elders were teaching. So, using the
CMIS (like a ward list), we located a ton of less active members that
the elders didn't know were there and that the branch forgot about.
Brother Jun Rosas was one of those less active members we found. His
wife, Nida, was super receptive but there are very poor and live far
from the church. It was really hard for them to get to church,
especially because Brother Jun would spend all their money on alcohol
and was almost always drunk when we went there. But, when we were there
before, he started to change and they started coming to church. Brother
Jun returned and Sister Nida was baptized right after I left. Now, their
whole family has been baptized and they're preparing to enter the
temple next year. Seeing them this week was a HUGE miracle. I was
shocked by how much they have changed. Sister Nida worked with us for a
whole day and bore strong testimony of the restoration of the gospel and
how much the gospel has changed their family. I truly got to see how
happy they were now. Before, Sister Nida would always cry to us about
how much her and Jun fought and about his drinking and everything. Now,
there is just pure joy. I even got to see them at church because there
was a baptism. It was such a blessing to see how much they belonged
there. I truly testify how much truly living the gospel changes people
and brings real happiness to families. They made me promise I would come
back and visit after my mission and bring my husband? So I have to
start saving up the money and looking for a husband... hah. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
There has been so much progression on Palawan and they're preparing
to become a stake. I feel so blessed to have been a part of their
progress, even if only slightly. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
BUT, I was really happy to return back to Paranaque. As much as I
LOVE Palawan, I was surprised to feel that I don't really belong there
anymore. The Lord needs me here in Paranaque. Our area did struggle
because we weren't here for a week. The members weren't able to make it
to our investigators and less actives, which was disappointing. But, we
still have some really great and progressing investigators. The Danong
family is really golden. Brother Medison went from smoking a pack a day
to 3 sticks a day in this past week, even though we weren't there. We're
so blessed. I really feel the love the Lord has for the people here and
I love seeing their progression.</div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-56108675665871268942014-05-21T04:48:00.001+08:002014-10-24T10:49:55.464+08:00<div class="nH">
<div class="ha">
<h2 class="hP" id=":yh" tabindex="-1">
STL = Sige Tambay Lang</h2>
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Oh hey hey there kids!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week. It was quick quick. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We
got to go to the temple and do a session again. We're so blessed to be
so close. It's great to be able to receive revelation for my life as
well as how to better help the people we teach come unto Christ. I also
saw some members from Pasay which was the best. I saw Joshua Samonte!
Who gave me a hundred letters that he and his brothers had written
including pictures of their baptisms :) Their whole family has been
baptized now. Including Elias Samonte. I don't know if you remember, but
he was my biggest stress in Pasay. He was the one that I prayed to get
sick and he did and then quick smoking because of it. Then he moved to
Makati and the AP's baptized him there. I talked with the AP's about it
at MLC and they said that it was the easiest baptism they ever had
because he was so prepared by the time he got to them. SO, I experienced
all the stress for that fella. But I am so so happy that he's been
baptized. I cried when I saw the pictures. The best best best. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then we also had MLC on Thursday. MY how things have
changed. When I was there before, there were only four sister trainer
leaders and 14 zone leaders. Now, there are twice the amount of zone
leaders and 12 sister trainer leaders! It's crazy. The Lord is hastening
His work and He needs leaders to help do it. It was the best, as
always. President Stucki is so inspired and Sister Dumayas and I are so
excited to apply the things we learned. We already started that day, and
have been experiencing miracles because of it. Even though we only had
not very much time in our area, we had great work. I love having Sister
Dumayas as a companion because I finally feel like we're doing an even
amount of work instead of always feeling like I have to push my
companion to be diligent. But, that was a blessing too, to help others.
Anyway, that's that.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We are meeting such great people. Our faith is skyrocketing. I love being a missionary. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I
will call you through Skype on Mother's day. I will be calling from
here at about 10:45 a.m. on Monday Philippines time. Which should be
sometime on Sunday night for you. Please be at the computer at that
time! Tell Amanda too so the kids will be there hopefully! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love you all huh! Don't forget it. They're making
me go to a thing to train me on how to return to normal life and get
jobs when I come home. So that means it's getting here. Prepare the rice
cooker.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-52786701029299555402014-05-06T06:24:00.002+08:002014-05-06T06:24:27.039+08:00<div class="nH">
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Mga Luha ng Kagalakan</h2>
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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This week was wonderful. But this email will be short because we're going to the temple in a few minutes.<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>I got my new companion. Sister Dumayas. She is little and I love her. Finally another Filipina.</li>
<li>We've been finding among the middle class - knocking on doors of
really nice houses. It's been awesome. The door slams are not
discouraging. Seriously.</li>
<li>Hideki Villegas was baptized. He is
going to be a great leader in the Lord's church. See attached picture.
Don't focus on his area, he is just a cool kid.</li>
<li>Sister Dumayas studied at culinary school before her mission. I will be fatter when I come home.</li>
<li>Being STL again isn't different yet. Except now my roommates are afraid of us. Pasaway kasi.</li>
<li>This
is the best part (after Hideki's baptism, because that is really the
best part.) Sister Stucki emailed this morning. SISTER DUMAYAS AND I ARE
GOING TO SPEND A WEEK IN PALAWAN DOING EXCHANGES WITH THE SISTERS OVER
THERE. I get to return to my first and second area. Mahal ako ng Diyos. I
cried big tears of joy when I read that. </li>
</ul>
Sister Mecham Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-68838393725084510262014-04-29T10:47:00.004+08:002014-04-29T10:47:32.307+08:00<div class="nH">
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The Saddest Thing</h2>
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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It's
a good thing that things I don't like always happen on Tuesdays so that
I have almost a whole week to think about it before I email you about
it! <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Last Tuesday we had interviews with President
Stucki. I was SO EXCITED because I knew he would tell me I'm training. I
really had no doubt. Then, we talk about some things. Then he says,
"You know, Sister Mecham, it's always been my plan for you to train
these last two transfers. But the Lord has a different plan for you. The
Lord has called you to serve as a Sister Trainer Leader... again." My
first thoughts were: NOOOOOOOOO. Then he noticed the little tears
welling up in my eyeballs. "How do you feel about that, Sister Mecham?"
"President, I was really hoping to train." "I know, I wanted you to,
too. But that's not God's plan." Bam. And with that, I can't say it's
not right. Even though this whole week I've been murmuring a little. But
really, I'm over it. I'm called to serve as a missionary and my Father
in Heaven will use me here how He wants me to be used. I'm just a tool, I
know.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Other than that, this week was great! I got stomach
flu, but that only kept me indoors for a bit. I didn't tell anyone so no
one could force me to stay inside! Don't worry, I'll rest when I'm
dead. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh yeah, HOLY WEEK. Holy Week is crazy here. They
close EVERYTHING on Friday. But everything is open again on Easter
Sunday. It's a little backwards. But on Friday that have Procession
which is a huge parade thing in the evening where every Catholic in
Paranaque (which is many) follows around statues as they are paraded
around town. It backs up traffic, but no one seems to mind. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week was awesome. I realized again the reality
of the Spirit. Things come out of my mouth that seem a little unusual to
me, but it really helps people. It's crazy. Not because of me, but
because of the Spirit. It's because God loves the people we're trying to
help.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
UPDATE: What president stucki told me was
confidential... But our district leader just texted and said no one is
transferring. Hm! I'll let you know next week what actually happened to
us! </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
nang pagmamahal,</div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-58680323735239324082014-04-17T03:19:00.000+08:002014-04-17T03:19:30.778+08:00<div class="nH">
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The good things!</h2>
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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This week was hard but ended wondrously.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let's
start with the hard. Remember that family I told you about? The Roluna
family? Who were, like, super golden? This week we came to them I they
said they were really grateful for us for helping them strengthen their
faith. Because their faith was getting so strong, they are thinking
about returning to their old religion - Iglesia Ni Cristo. NO! WRONG!
They weren't sure yet, just thinking about it. So I was very stressed by
this because I knew that God had prepared them but Satan was tempting
them to take the easy way out. So this whole week, I was not a very
happy camper. I don't know why, but I let it really stress me out. But,
with much help from the Lord, we found the perfect member to bring to
their home to fellowship them. But it's hard because this member lives
far and it busy. But, we scheduled it for yesterday. But then he called
last minute and said he needs to change the time! We will go earlier!
But, I was super stressed because I knew they usually aren't home at
that time. But it was his only time. So, for a long while, that was all
that was in my prayers. When we met up with Brother Sanchez (the
member), he had a huge smile. He says, "Don't worry, Sister Mecham. I
know that they will be there because I prayed about it before I left my
home." (Small background about Brother Sanchez: he and his family were
baptized last December only and they are super super strong young
family.) How did he know I was worried? Because he's in tune with the
Spirit. So, we get to their home. Brother Roluna is home. I don't see
his wife, though. We can't teach him without his wife we need a third
babae! My faith was weak. I ask him where his wife is. BOOM! She just
pops out from the kitchen covered in sweat! She had just barely got home
from a faraway trip like one minute ago! I am surprised. I look at
Brother Sanchez. He's not surprised. What faith! So, I repented from my
lack of faith. I will redouble my faith the next time. We taught them a
wonderful lesson and they promised to continue coming to church (they
missed two weeks) and really praying and reading to find out if it's
true. So, I'm happier than ever - My Father in Heaven threw me a bone
because He loves me. But even more than that, because He loves the
Roluna family!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There's another weird story. One day we OYM an older
woman in a duster. We set a return appointment. We return the next day.
A man comes out and says the woman from yesterday is busy. He says she
won't be busy tomorrow. We return the next day. The man comes out and
says HE is just about to leave so we can't teach him. We were confused
because we thought we were there to teach the woman... but we set a new
return appointment. Then, later that day, like five hours later, we were
walking in that same area when I hear, "MAYHEM, MAYHEM!!!!!!!!" I
thought, 'it sounds like someone is trying to call my name but
butchering it..." I ignored it. Then we saw a few people and started
talking with them. In the middle of our conversation, the same man from
earlier appears at my side. "Come teach me now." "Uhhh what?" "NOW!"
Then he runs off back toward his house. Sister Jensen and I looked at
each other tentatively... He really doesn't seem crazy. So we go. The
woman is there, too. But we had the weirdest lesson of my life. He would
not allow sister Jensen to try to speak Tagalog. Only english. Luckily,
I was allowed to speak Tagalog. But I can't really explain to you how
weird he was. In the middle of my teaching, he looks at me, and in
complete politeness says, "You, stop teaching." Then turns to Sister
Jensen, "You teach." But not like angrily... More like we were his
puppets. It was strange. Long story short, he agreed to prepare to be
baptized so I'll let you know how that goes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Jensen got chased by two very large rats in a tiny alley way. It was hilarious. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh
man, I was hoping to talk to you about how awesome conference was! But
maybe next week because I got carried away with weird stories that I
know cannot be fully appreciated in writing. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love you and I love being a missionary and I will
find out this week if I'll be training for my last two transfers! Pray
for me!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
<br />Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-782389834556197582014-04-08T06:09:00.000+08:002014-04-08T06:08:59.997+08:00<div class="nH">
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Mata't Utak</h2>
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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Yesterday
I ate the head of a chicken. Including the brain. And the eyes. It was
not very good but they really love it here. It's a texture thing. All I
have left to eat are the intestines and the feet and I've pretty much
eaten a whole chicken!<div>
</div>
<div>
Corazon is going to do baptisms for the dead <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_889506597" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Friday</span></span>!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We ate dinner at the Godito family's home <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_889506598" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Thursday</span></span>.
Brother Godito is a chef and a good one. He cooked us backed tomato
basil macaroni with real mozzarella cheese. It was heaven. Then we had a
real long conversation about food and I felt like I was talking with
Eliza Young about the food channel. It was delicious.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There was on ox cart parked outside our apartment for a while. They were selling baskets.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We got to watch the women's meeting <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_889506599" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>! It was awesome! We'll be watching conference <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_889506600" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">this Saturday</span></span> and <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_889506601" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Sunday</span></span>. But I'm downloading it right now for a sneak peak:)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week we had a great lesson with our punk
investigator named Hideki. He's come to church for 9 times now and is
finally super excited to be baptized! Before he wanted to, but he wasn't
dying with joy and excitement like he should be. Now, he just can't
wait and we're so excited for the 26th!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That's all the things for this week.
Still lovin' you all! The office lady emailed me again and threatened
that I won't be able to go home if I don't send in the form she needs!
Little does she know, that's not a threat... but a temptation! Hah! I'm
funny. Okay. Have a great week!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-63363218267648749892014-04-01T08:51:00.002+08:002014-04-01T08:51:25.317+08:00<div class="nH">
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Binyag ni Corazon!</h2>
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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</div>
This was a nice week. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We
met a woman who is Indian named Kamlu. She grew up here but her tagalog
is choppy. So she asked us to teach her in English. Sister Jensen is
happy. I feel like I sound silly in English. But it's okay.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then we had a really awesome specialized teaching
training seminar by President Stucki and it was awesome! I learned so
much and it's so fun to improve my teaching skills every day!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then, <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_71318231" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>,
CORAZON MILLENA WAS BAPTIZED. It was happy all around. At first, she
told me she didn't want to bear her testimony after. So I told the ward
mission leader so she wouldn't feel awkward. But, of course, philipinos
are like this: Our bishop forced her to do it. Which turned out great!
She only didn't want to because she didn't want to cry in front of
everyone. But she totally did cry and it was actually really great and
I'm so blessed to be a part of her life.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Before that, we had this really great lesson with
this family, the Roluna family, that we just found last week. They're
very poor but they are very rich with the spirit. They are very
religious but they we excommunicated from Iglesia ni Cristo so they have
no religion right now. Anyway, we taught them the plan of salvation and
their faces were awesome as we explained it. They had tons of great
questions. The dad, Roberto, bore testimony that he knew it was true and
was so grateful that we taught it to him so they know that it's not
enough just to be good people, but we have to find the true church, with
the true authority to baptize, so we can follow the Gospel of Jesus
Christ and go to the Celestial kingdom. Their understanding of the plan
of salvation blew my mind. Then they committed to come to church. So we
got up earlier than usual and went to the church earlier than usual
because we really wanted to be there when they got there. We were half
an hour early (which is way early because church usually starts a half
an hour late). When we got there, one member of the bishopric was there
(and no one else) and he said, "You have visitors." We ran inside and
there they all were! Sitting on the front row! They had been there for a
half an hour already! I asked them why they were so early and they just
said, "we didn't want to be late!" They're so cute and I'm so excited
for their progress as a family.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So that is that. I'm so happy. I love being a
missionary. They're making me fill out a form for coming home. If I
don't fill it out, I can't come home. Tempting?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love you all!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-50096410729844974462014-03-18T12:59:00.001+08:002014-03-18T12:59:06.142+08:00<div class="nH">
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ang hirap na, maganda pa</h2>
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<span></span><span alt="Mon, Mar 17, 2014 at 9:47 PM" class="g3" id=":hl" title="Mon, Mar 17, 2014 at 9:47 PM">9:47 PM (1 hour ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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Whew! This was a rough week! <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let me story to you:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There
is this woman, Bernadeth, who has been coming to church for ages but
isn't baptized. She is wealthy. When I got here, she was the only
investigator coming to church. So I said, LET'S BAPTIZE HER. But then
she's too busy for us to teach her. But this last Saturday I finally was
able to teach her for the first time. I've been praying and fasting for
her since I first heard about her. So, my faith was through the roof
that she would decide to be baptized this month after this lesson. She
knows the church is true. She is basically a member, just lacking the
baptism - which is the key. SO, we get in the lesson and I am bursting
with excitement and joy and the BAM she says she will absolutely not get
baptized until her annulment goes through. In the Philippines, that
takes FOREVER and is VERY expensive. I was bold. She was bolder. We
committed to to prepare for baptism - she can choose the date. She
refused any date. I tried all I could think of to bring the spirit UNTO
her heart to soften it. Then she starting looking terrifying so I gave
up, for now. But then, in a last effort, I turn to her 19 year old
nephew, Hideki (who is progressing but kept saying he wasn't ready to be
baptized). We invite him to choose a new baptismal date and to stick to
it. He accepts immediately and chooses <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_346236354" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">April 26</span></span>. WHOOOO! I was focusing on the wrong person. The Lord is preparing people all around.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We are experiencing a lot of success in our area
with helping less active members return. Wally Ong returned this last
week! Now all we have to do is figure out how to convince him to stop
doing faith healing... In which I know he's not using God's power to do.
And if it's not from God, it's from some other way. Which is freaky but
he's way old and can't work so it's the only way he gets food. But the
Bishop is planning to step in and help him stop doing it. Brother Joven
will be retuning, too in the next few weeks which is also another man we
talked to who happened to be a member. He's even older the Wally and we
have nice lessons where we have to yell because his hearing is barely
there. But it's wonderful and I know the Lord has prepared these members
to return to His fold. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Other than this, I hate being a tall white American
and having a tall, white American companion. So many people let us in
the teach them. But they all lose their interest in our message and just
ask us a million questions about America or our skin or Tagalog or if
we have boyfriends and it's weird and can be discouraging. BUT, I know
that the Lord is preparing people for us here and maybe that's the way
we'll find them.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'M GOING TO THE TEMPLE TODAY. I'm feeling really excited about it. But that's why you're getting this email <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_346236355" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Tuesday</span></span>.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Love you.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-16527753060295382682014-03-11T12:29:00.001+08:002014-03-11T12:29:09.026+08:00<div class="nH">
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A Real Hard Week</h2>
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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This week was a real hard week. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I
probably talked to more people than I have any other week in my whole
life. And 90% of them did not want us to teach them or even come back
another day. Our progressing investigators had problems come up - not
unsolvable, only difficult. But, the faith is still there. This is still
the Lord's work. I still love it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There was one day (<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1695949175" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Wednesday</span></span> - Ash <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1695949176" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Wednesday</span></span>)
where NO ONE was home and everyone we met did not want to listen.
Everyone. For the whole day. We walked and walked and walked and walked
annnnd waaaalked. Until it was <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1695949177" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">8 p.m.</span></span>
I was not discouraged. I knew the Lord had something prepared for us.
Instead of going home early on the least productive day of my life, we
kept walking. And talking to everyone. But there were barely any people.
And then, out of no where, there was this man. William. I knew I wanted
to talk to him, but a really loud voice in my brain told me that he
would probably shut us down just like every other person we spoke to
that day. But a really quiet voice in my heart told me to talk to him
anyway. I did. He let us into his humble home. We taught him and his
wife and his eleven children the message of the Restoration of the
Gospel of Jesus Christ. HUH? It was awesome.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Do you want to hear about my birthday? It was <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1695949178" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Friday</span></span>.
We had weekly planning. IT RAINED (it's not rainy season, God just
loves me). Sister Reyes painted my toenails like Hello Kitty because I'm
so asian and so is she. I ate 2 snickers bars. Theeeennnnnnn: the
birthday party. My birthday happens to coincide with the birthday of a
very wealthy member in our ward. So we had a combined party. There was a
chocolate fondu fountain and a halo-halo station and there were server
men and everyone in all of Paranaque City was there - include the mayor.
Yeah, the mayor of Paranaque was totally at my birthday party and I
offered him the gospel. Bishops family gave me an awesome t-shirt and I
got squeezed to death by too many small people. It definitely beat last
year's beer pizza that I didn't eat. Happy birthday!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Oh yes, we watched Frozen. It was adorable. I recommend it to you all.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
No time, I'm registering for classes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-7491832669702177442014-03-11T12:28:00.001+08:002014-03-11T12:28:23.116+08:00<div class="nH">
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maligayang bati sa aking kaarawan</h2>
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<span></span><span alt="Sun, Mar 2, 2014 at 8:47 PM" class="g3" id=":103" title="Sun, Mar 2, 2014 at 8:47 PM">Mar 2 (8 days ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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What a week!<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I
have perfect eyes. Sister Stucki made me get my eyes checked this
morning because I've been having headaches. That's not it, they're still
perfect. hah</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Later on today we're having a zone activity in which we
will be watching a movie. Whaaaaaa? I tried to convince our zone leaders
to do something else, but they don't listen to me now that I'm not an
STL (joke). So, it'll probably turn into a zone nap. We're watching
Frozen, which of course I know nothing about.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
You know, this week was good. Corazon is still
planning on being baptized, but the ward made us change her date to the
29th because of silly reasons. I'm not bitter. We also have 5 other
investigators that could be baptized on the 29th. That is going to take a
LOT of faith. Well, two of them could be baptized tomorrow if they
wanted, but they're still searching for answers. Hope is believing and
EXPECTING things to happen. It'll happen. Also, Lenie has now officially
returned and is an active member!!! It's so happy because we just found
her and helped her back. Same thing is going to happen with Walfredo.
2x na he's come to church.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"No compulsion is used in bringing men to a
knowledge of God; yet, as fast as we open our hearts to the influence of
righteousness, the faith that leads to life eternal will be given us of
our Father."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is what's on my mind: After the Savior's death
and before His resurrection, the apostles were lost. They weren't sure
what to do, so at least some of them went back to their old life -
fishin'. While they were fishing, the caught nothing. Then, Jesus Christ
appeared to them and they miraculously caught a ton of fish. Then, this
is the best part: The Savior, probably gesturing to the huge pile of
fish, says, "Peter, do you love me more than you love all this?" He
replies, "Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee." Then He asks him
two more times, each time in the affirmative. Then He commands him to
leave it, and to feed His lambs, feed His sheep. That's what I've been
thinking about. My Father gave me a wonderful life. I had everything I
thought I wanted. It was in a huge pile. But then, He pointed to it all
and said, "Do you love me more than you love all this?" And I left it.
And I came here. And now I understand more than ever that I really
really do love Him more than anything else. I don't know if I really
knew that before. I thought I did.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I love you fam. I'm grateful for all you've done for
me to get me here. I wouldn't trade what I've experienced for anything.
NOW STOP REMINDING ME HOW SOON I'M COMING HOME, HUH! Hah, that was a
sweet moment that I ruined. I hate to be the one to tell you, but I'm
not coming home. (That's a joke, mom, don't stress.)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
'ster mech</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-59132830580270030442014-02-26T04:47:00.001+08:002014-02-26T04:47:08.542+08:00<div class="nH">
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himala dahil sa pananampal<wbr></wbr>ataya</h2>
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<span class="gD" name="Ashley Mecham">Ashley Mecham</span> </h3>
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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This week was one big fat miracle. I don't know where to start.<br /></div>
Remember
how when I first got here I was explaining how there was no one here
that was progressing and it was a punishment to be sent here? I don't
remember if I said that, but I definitely thought it. But listen up:<br />
</div>
The house help of our Bishop, Corazon, has been progressing.
But, she always said she likes coming to church because she learns a
lot, but she still hadn't felt an answer from God if the Book of Mormon
is true or if this is really Christ's restored church. Then, one week
ago, our bishop's wife made her stay home from church to take care of
her parents who were in town. Corazon was not happy about that. She is
still the nicest lady in the world, but seemed super annoyed by our
bishop's wife. We were afraid that that would stop her progress. And she
had been seeming weird when we taught her, like something was up. But,
that is all beside the point. >>>>> <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_358941859" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">On Thursday</span></span>,
we get there to teach her. She seems normal. We follow up on the
reading assignment we left her in the Book of Mormon - 3 Nephi 12. I
remember when I left that assignment I thought it was weird because I've
never left it before. She read it. "It was good." But, even though that
was her answer, I was not satisfied. She doesn't usually share specific
things from what she read, but this time I really really wanted her to
for some reason. SO I kept bugging her. "Are you SURE there's NOTHING
you want to share from what you read?!?!" Finally, she looks down. Then
looks up. She says, "Sisters, I do have something to share. Something
amazing happened last night." Then, she can't speak anymore because she
just starts weeping. Finally, she gets out the story. It was so simple.
She prayed before she read the Book of Mormon. I real, deep prayer. She
did what we had just taught her - she began the process of repenting of
all her sins. She felt the Spirit big time. Then, she opened to the
reading assignment and read the first two verses. BAM. She tried to
describe what she felt but couldn't in real words. She remembered what
we had taught her about the influence of the Holy Ghost and how it might
feel when she got an answer. She looked up at us with tear-filled eyes,
"Naniniwala na ako." which is "I believe now." Then I simply asked, "So
what are you going to do now that you know this is true?" She didn't
even hesitate. "I'm ready to be baptized on <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_358941860" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">March 15</span></span>!!" MIRACLE.<br />
</div>
Then, <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_358941861" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Sunday</span></span>,
sacrament meeting started and none of our investigators or less actives
were there. Usually, that is super discouraging. Usually, I would
think, "Oh man, now no one will be baptized in March!" But my faith has
grown so much. I bowed my head, and prayed for our specific
investigators and less actives who committed to come. It was the best
feeling, even though no one was there, I didn't lose faith. I knew that
the Lord would provide. It's like Jairus in the New Testament. He comes
to Jesus Christ and asks in faith for Him to heal his daughter. Then, on
the way there, Christ stops to heal someone else. Jairus is not
impatient. Then, Jairus' servant comes and tells him his daughter has
died. He tells him to not bother Jesus any longer. But Jairus is not
phased, he knows the Lord can still do - he can bring her back from the
dead. That's how I felt, even though it really seemed hopeless, I know
the Lord would still provide. At that moment, I finished my prayer and
looked up. I see Lenie Curilan's daughter Ashly run in the front doors
(In our chapel, there are windows). Lenie is our returning less active,
this is her third week in a row. Lenie walks in. He father in law
Walfredo (who is a very less active member- they're the only two members
in their family) walks in after her. Her cousin, our invesigator,
Grace, walks in. Lenie's neighber whom she referred to us walks in with
her 5 kids. We clear a space and the scoot in next to us. As we turned
around, we noticed that Corazon has sneaked in the back and we hadn't
noticed. Also our other investigator, Bernadeth. After sacrament meeting
our 2nd counselor introduced us to a 19 year old boy who has been
coming to church for 3 weeks in a row but has never been taught by the
missionaries - and he happens to live in our area. THAT'S BECAUSE OF
FAITH. <br />
</div>
I've never really felt this way before. I feel so much love
from the Lord pouring down on me and the people we are teaching. I love
being here. This is the truth.<br /><br />I love you. I love the Lord.<br /></div>
Sister Mecham<br /><br /></div>
Pictures:</div>
1. There is yellow watermelon here. But it tastes like red watermelon.</div>
2.
I GOT TO SEE MY BEST FRIEND SISTER DE LEON BEFORE SHE GOES HOME AFTER
THIS TRANSFER. It was such a miracle. I thought there would be no way I
would see her before she left because she's assigned in a different
zone. That's a miracle too. Notice the little tears in her eyes. I make
people cry.<br />
</div>
3. This is my companion, Sister Jensen. Did I tell you how I
transferred to America? The grocery store in this area is just like a
normal grocery store. We bought CHIPS AND SALSA. That's a miracle, too. I
didn't know those existed in the Philippines. I also bought TORTILLAS
which I thought were no where to be found. Miracles.</div>
</div>
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<span class="aVW"><span id=":xe">3</span> Attachments</span></div>
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Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-21611096355300910032014-02-18T05:21:00.003+08:002014-02-18T05:21:32.411+08:00<div class="nH">
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<span class="gD" name="Ashley Mecham">Ashley Mecham</span> </h3>
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<span></span><span alt="Sun, Feb 16, 2014 at 8:27 PM" class="g3" id=":wf" title="Sun, Feb 16, 2014 at 8:27 PM">8:27 PM (17 hours ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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This was a long week. It was hard. And we're still having so many blessings. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I
know I keep talking about this, but we OYM'd two more people this week
that happened to be baptized years ago but then moved here and didn't
know where the church was. When I came this area, there was 1 less
active member that lived in our area. Now we have 8. WHAT? That's so
many, and the other seven we met through just talking to people. And one
of them, Sister Lenie, is returning! And she's referring all her
friends and neighbors. It's awesome. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week we had zone conference. Our zone leader
wrote a huge 16 on the whiteboard and said, "This is how many baptisms
the Lord wants us to have in March. That means we need 2 baptisms per
companionship. How many of you believe we can reach this goal?" Everyone
went silent. My first thought was how rough shape our area was in when I
got here and how there was literally no one left behind from the last
missionary to be baptized. But then, I thought of how he phrased that,
"how many the Lord wants us to have." Then I shouted YES. Which was
actually awkwardly loud. Every one else was still silent. He asked
again, "Do you believe we can reach this?" Silence. "YES!!!" -coming
from me only. Then he taught us how we need to have faith that we can do
the things that the Lord has commanded us. And how these next two weeks
will make or break it for March. SO, I know that we need a ton of faith
here. But I really know that the Lord will help us do His will. This
past week I've really been feeling like my faith was through the roof,
but then <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1255916685" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">Sunday</span></span>
came and only one investigator came to church. (If no one comes to
church, no one can be baptized). But then I read this talk from this guy
that says when things don't happen the way we hoped, "REDOUBLE YOUR
FAITH AND TRY AGAIN." So, this week, I'll be redoubling my faith.
Because I know my Father in Heaven loves His children in Paranaque and
He will help us help them if we have enough faith.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That's all. I hope all is well with
you. This next week a member is making me lasagna. This past week they
fed me peaches. Those two things don't really exist in the Philippines
unless you're very wealthy. Our members are very wealthy. I'm going to
get fat here. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-11373608145798739092014-02-18T05:19:00.003+08:002014-02-18T05:19:39.136+08:00<div class="nH">
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<span></span><span alt="Sun, Feb 9, 2014 at 8:41 PM" class="g3" id=":ue" title="Sun, Feb 9, 2014 at 8:41 PM">Feb 9 (8 days ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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This week went so fast.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Our apartment is awesome. We have a basketball hoop.</li>
<li>We had temple day last week, which was why I emailed on Tuesday. I love the temple.</li>
<li>I
would get fat in this area if it wasn't for all the walking. Our
members feed us like crazy. We walk like crazy. Our area is huge like my
first two areas on Palawan. The eating and the walking cancel each
other out, hopefully.</li>
<li>It's summer now. My skin is melting off of my body every time I walk
outside. But, on the bright side, I'm getting my missionary tan back!</li>
<li>I've
started cooking again. (I secretly love not being a sister trainer
leader...so much time!) We made Sinigang! This week we'll make adobong
manok.</li>
<li>We have an investigator named Cynthia who is wealthy and wants to
take us with her on a vacation to Palawan. I so almost said yes. </li>
<li>It's even weirder than I imagined having an American companion but I'm getting used to it. </li>
<li>I ate Durian, finally. It's a fruit that comes from Mindinao that
kills you when you smell it but the sends you to heaven when you eat it.
That's what the member said that fed it to us. I've heard about it from
day one but never tasted it because it doesn't grow here and it's
expensive. It really smells like death - the worst smell you've ever
smelled. But it tastes nice. </li>
<li>We are seeing so many miracles in this area. We've been praying for
them and they're coming. We keep talking to random people (not so
random, following the spirit) and they keep ending up to be members that
haven't come to church in ages. Lenie is an example of that, and she
came to church last week for the first time in over six years! She's
great. We also talked to this man Ramon on like my first day here and he
told us that his sister is a member but lives in New York. Then we went
back to his house a million times and he was never there or busy. Then
we finally taught him. Right when he sat down he says, "So, what's up?"
Then, we laughed. Then, he said, in english, "You know, you don't have
to convince me that your message is true because I was already
baptized." But I assumed he was already baptized Catholic. But no, he
was baptized in 1972 and hasn't been to church since the 1980's. He will
come to church this next Sunday. MIRACLES. My Father in Heaven loves
me, but more than that, He loves the people in this area and he is
preparing them for us. </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
That is a bullet list of the things of this week. For next week:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Happy
Valentine's Day. They don't have a saying for that in Tagalog because
they only stole that holiday and there isn't a Filipino equivalent, I
think.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
That's all. Love you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
'ster Mech</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-83470849593209760672014-02-18T05:16:00.002+08:002014-02-18T05:16:35.082+08:00<div class="nH">
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<span class="gD" name="Ashley Mecham">Ashley Mecham</span> </h3>
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<span><img alt="" class="f gW" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/images/cleardot.gif" title="IMG_2221.JPG,IMG_2232.JPG" /></span><span alt="Mon, Feb 3, 2014 at 8:57 PM" class="g3" id=":173" title="Mon, Feb 3, 2014 at 8:57 PM">Feb 3</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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There's too many things that happened this week for me to tell you them all.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Last
Monday we were finally able to go back to Elias Samonte because he had
been in the hospital and was pretty sick. We talked to him, and he said
that because he has been sick, he hasn't been able to smoke. He said
that the smell of cigarettes makes his insides hurt. He pointed to a
little lizard on the ceiling and said, in english, "I feel like that is
my transformation." I died laughing. But, want to know a secret? I've
been praying that that exact thing would happen. Not the lizard, but
that he would get sick and not be able to smoke any more (like Ming on
PMG dvds). So, he had not smoked for 10 days. The Lord works in
mysterious ways. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Then, on Tuesday morning, I had just begun my
personal study when President Stucki called. (which is not rare for us
as leaders). But then, he started thanking me for my service as an STL
and then fired me. Hah, okay, not really, I just have been reassigned. I
HAVE BEEN TRANSFERRED. I cried the most tears I've cried in a very very
long time. I think I scared our roommates. I even surprised myself. I
LOVE LOVE LOVE PASAY 1ST WARD. When I got to that area in September it
was sad because there was nothing happening. I've been working my tail
off getting the area to progress and was finally seeing the fruits of
our efforts. We had like one million families with baptismal dates. And
the best, Snookie and Mel will be baptized next week and I won't be
there. They cried and I cried and it was depressing. And then I cried a
ton more. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And now I'm in Paranaque 3rd Ward. This area has
been deemed by our APs as "The Hardest Area in the Mission." I will tell
you why: I've seen the biggest and nicest houses in my entire time here
in the Philippines - way nicer than a lot of houses in Utah. And the
area is huge - we walk a lot and we see no one outside. I left my area
of 22 baptismal dates for February and March to ZERO baptismal dates and
ZERO progressing investigators. The people here are very very wealthy. I
will include a picture. But, it's a great opportunity to find future
leaders here in the Philippines so I'm pumped about it. I just have to
find them... But the ward is so so great and very supportive and they
feed us so much. I would get fat here if it weren't for how much we WALK
WALK WALK forever. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But listen, ^^^ those things are not negative. I
cried when I first got here, but the Lord has really shown me why I'm
here. I'm so excited to fix this area! I know the Lord is preparing
people for us here and I'm so excited to find them! We have already been
blessed with so many new investigators and now are up to four baptismal
dates. It's coming! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And let me tell you a miracle: The other day we were
walking when I saw a man that I knew. I knew I knew him but I couldn't
remember how. Then, he knew me too! Turns out, it's a man I OYM'd in
Pasay who turned out to be a member who has been less active for a
while. We weren't able to teach him in Pasay because his lived with his
boss who wouldn't let us enter. BUT, his new boss here WILL let us
enter. We taught him, and he came to church last Sunday. I was such a
crazy miracle that I already knew him and that he is now prepared to
return and become an active member in the church! Boo yah!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My new companion is Sister Jensen. She is American.
She is my first American companion and she is really white and American.
I'm not used to being around an American so often. Her Tagalog needs
improvement, which is one of the reasons President Stucki said he gave
me her. I'm helping her, I'm fixing the area. SERVICE YEAH I LOVE IT.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That's all I have. Lemme give you some pictures.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1. This is an awesome sweater I bought at Mall of Asia. It was expensive.</div>
<div>
2.
This is Snookie and her adorable son Maco who loves me and I love him. I
didn't get a picture with Mel because I didn't get to say goodbye to
him because I only had half a day for goodbyes to everyone and he had
work. That is Angelina Jolie in the background.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
More pictures to come that won't fit here! Love you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-48211753185164138072014-02-18T05:14:00.002+08:002014-02-18T05:14:40.325+08:00<div class="nH">
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<span></span><span alt="Sun, Jan 26, 2014 at 8:59 PM" class="g3" id=":18k" title="Sun, Jan 26, 2014 at 8:59 PM">Jan 26</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span> </span></div>
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<div>
"I think myself to be happy..." in the words of Paul. I had a great week.<br /></div>
Snookie
and Mel are the best couple ever. We taught them keep the sabbath day
holy last week which we knew would be awkward because they always do
their laundry on Sunday. (Doing laundry in the Philippines is a very
intense endeavor - definitely not a worthy Sabbath day activity.) We
opened with the ten commandments - #4. After we read the scripture,
Snookie says, "Bale, bawal maglaba sa Linggo?" or "So, we shouldn't wash
our clothes on Sunday?" and I said, "From what you read in that
scripture, what do you think?" Her answer, "Bawal maglaba." It was
awesome how we didn't have to point out specific things in their life
that they aren't doing right, we just let the Lord say it with the
scriptures. Then they spent the next 15 minutes making a plan on how to
finish all their laundry before Sunday. It was awesome. And then, on
Sunday, THEY HAD THEIR INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT STUCKI. They were so so
nervous. But, of course, they passed because they are the two best
people in the entire world. They will definitely be baptized on the 15th
of February. FINALLY.<br />
</div>
Also, my first baptism in this area, the miracle one, JP Mayor, received the Melchizedek Priesthood yesterday. I was so proud.<br /></div>
Also,
we pulled off four exchanges this week and it went so smoothly. The
first was with Sister Riddle from my batch that I went to elementary
school. She is a crazy exercise addict but it was fine. Then with
another american sister from my batch. Exchanges with batch mates are
weird because you know you're at the same point of your mission... But
then I had the best exchange every with Sister Alberto - she's a fairly
new missionary but is so so talented. We basically sprinted around our
area talking to everyone and teaching in unity and it was brilliant. I
love filipina companions. It was also really great because I WAS SO
SICK. I had like three different sicknesses torturing me but wanted to
go on the exchange anyway because I could still walk. I just basically
pretended I wasn't sick for three days and it was a great and productive
week. <br />
</div>
This week our most wealthy members, the Gapiz family, fed us
RIBS. and SALAD. I rarely see salad here and have never seen ribs! My
mind was blown and it was delicious. Then they found out I like lasagna
and that is what they will be making for our next dinner appointment. I
never thought I would miss American food.<br />
</div>
Okay, now this is one of my favorite miracles this week. I
don't remember if I told you, but about a month ago, one of my favorite
families told us in a text message not to come back for a while because
the wife just gave birth and needs to recover. I was devastated. But
this week I've been thinking about them a ton but have been too scared
to stop by because I wasn't sure if it had been enough time. Then, out
of the blue on Friday, they text and say that they want us to visit them
again - every evening at <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_84519174" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">5pm</span></span>.
I died with joy. Then, when we were teaching them again, Sister Jesica
(who has the most sarcastic and harsh personality) says under her
breath, "Kasi, namis ko kayo..." Which means, I missed you. Then I
paused and asked her to repeat that louder. It was hilarious. She did
not want to admit she missed us! The Lord was telling me to go back but I
let my fear of Jesica (just kidding, halfly) get in the way!! Follow
the spirit Sister Mecham!<br />
</div>
Okay, that's all. It was the busiest week of traveling for
exchanges and working so hard and it was so fun and I love being a
missionary and I'm so tired so now it's time to clean the apartment.
OHHHHH GUESS WHERE I"M GOINGGGGGGG.<br />
</div>
MALLLLLL OFFFFF ASIAAAAAAA. We're going to the Mall of Asia
right after this. It's the largest mall in all of Asia and missionaries
are not allowed to go there but we got special permission from President
and I'm going to buy a hoodie.<br />
</div>
Love you all,</div>
Sister MechamRuthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-32365990557768408872014-01-21T13:18:00.002+08:002014-01-21T13:18:54.063+08:00<div class="nH">
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<span></span><span alt="Sun, Jan 19, 2014 at 9:31 PM" class="g3" id=":xc" title="Sun, Jan 19, 2014 at 9:31 PM">Jan 19 (1 day ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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<div>
"Yea, I desire to dwell among this people for a time; yea, and perhaps until the day I die."<br /></div>
That's how I'm feeling, sorry if I never come home!<br /><br />
</div>
This week was the best! Sister Tuia and I are experiencing so many miracles. <br /></div>
For
example, we received a referral from the elders a few weeks ago. We
tried so hard to find the address, but no one knew where it was. Then,
the other day, in our planning, I really felt like we should try again
to find it the next day. So we did. We found someone who knew where it
was. They led us down some sketchy stairs to a door. When you open the
door, there just a tunnel that leads somewhere underground. And it's
pitch black. And of course I have to do a nice hunch walk in order to
fit in the tunnel. Then it leads to a place that is not pitch black, but
still a tunnel. But the ground changes from dirt to 2x4 bridges over a
filthy river. And there are TONS of houses down there. I felt like I
entered into a new world. Sister Tuia was terrified, but I was used to
walking on the little bridges because of Palawan. We found the house of
the referral. Then, for some reason, I really felt like we should keep
walking down the bridge tunnel. Finally, it came to the end, about half a
mile underground. And there was a house. And there was a man and his
wife and his seven children sitting in it doing nothing. They invited us
in. The husband, Candido, and his wife, Rosilyn, are legally married
(which is rare). We taught them the message of the restoration and they
all accepted a baptismal date for February. The best part is, THEY
UNDERSTAND. They really understood the message. And, when we returned
the next day, they had read a huge chunk of the Book of Mormon and are
really praying to find out if it's true. They will be coming to church
this week. All nine of them. We have really been praying to find
investigators that will progress in the gospel, especially potential
priesthood holders and families. The Lord is showering down blessing on
our area. <br />
</div>
<div>
Oh, there was another point to that story. On the way out
of the tunnel (because, of course, there is only one way out - back the
way we came_, Sister Tuia was so happy to see the light at the end of
the tunnel that she started sprinting and in my laughter and distracted
walking I hit my head on something SO HARD and actually got a mild
concussion. But really, I'm okay. It was worth finding that family.<br />
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Another quicker miracle, SNOOKIE AND MEL BALANGKIT WILL BE BAPTIZED ON <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1848139330" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">FEBRUARY 15</span></span>.
They are finally ready to have an interview with President Stucki and
they chose their date for the 15th. I nearly cried with joy. They are
the cutest family of all time.<br />
</div>
That's about it for time. I love you all. Don't worry about me
here. I'm the happiest I've ever been even though my head aches now.
Hah, I passed the one year mark, but it just means I'm sprinting even
faster! I love the Lord and I love His work.<br />
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-50217282951805740622014-01-21T13:17:00.001+08:002014-01-21T13:17:58.584+08:00<div class="nH">
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<span class="gD" name="Ashley Mecham">Ashley Mecham</span> </div>
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<span><img alt="" class="f gW" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/images/cleardot.gif" title="Sis Mecham 011.jpg,Sis Mecham 002.jpg" /></span><span alt="Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at 11:36 PM" class="g3" id=":ub" title="Sun, Jan 12, 2014 at 11:36 PM">Jan 12 (8 days ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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<div>
Dear Family,<br /></div>
<div>
This
week was tired. We had so so many meetings. And temple day! But we only
had one full day of work the whole week. But it was still a good week.
We found some golden investigators and we're super excited. <br />
<br />This week while I was on an exchange with Sister Agreda, we were
teaching someone on the street when out of no where a lady comes up and
says she's a talent scout and wants me to be in a commercial. I said no.
She was very persistent. I still said no.<br />
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This morning they made me go get finger
printed for my exit visa. I'm not coming home yet, but it's weird. This
week I'll reach my 1 year mark on my mission. That doesn't seem like
real life. <br />
</div>
<div>
This morning I was begging the AP to convince President
Stucki that I need to train again. He said it isn't going to happen. I
think he's lying. <br /></div>
<div>
You know what's a good talk from
this last conference? "Look Ahead and Believe" by Edward Dube. I read it
when I was halfway. I read it this morning. Coincidence? No. <br />
</div>
<div>
One of the sisters we went on exchanges with recently
found out she has lice. I slept in her bed. I don't think I inherited
them, but I'll keep you updated. <br /></div>
<div>
I almost forgot! I
got your package, mom! You are the best best best mom in the whole
world! The clothes are the best and just what I needed. And Elder Mecham
is pogi naman! Thank you so much! Also, I'm not really sure how to use
the oil things you sent...<br />
</div>
<div>
I'm not feeling super well, so forgive me for the strange email! I love you! Be safe.<br /><br />Sister Mecham</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-70450085682248469712014-01-21T13:05:00.001+08:002014-01-21T13:05:38.590+08:00<div class="nH">
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<span class="hP" id=":ti" tabindex="-1">Nagpunta kami sa templo, kasi...</span><span class="J-J5-Ji" id=":tj"><table cellpadding="0" class="cf hX"><tbody>
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<span></span><span alt="Tue, Jan 7, 2014 at 2:00 AM" class="g3" id=":ub" title="Tue, Jan 7, 2014 at 2:00 AM">Jan 7 (13 days ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="0">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span> </span></div>
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Sorry
for a late email. We had the opportunity to go to the temple earlier
today which means they switched pday to tuesday. I don't want to talk
about spelling or punctuation or grammar right now because I have no
time but I have to get these things out there:<div>
</div>
<div>
New Years Eve is crazy town here, drunk people with SO
MANY HUGE FIREWORKS. Or so I hear. We were thankfully sentenced to time
in our apartment by <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_314089675" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">6pm</span></span>,
thankfully because it was seriously crazy town outside. Sister Tuia and
Sister Wemhoner and Sister Belardo and I cooked a huge feast and it was
awesome. I made lumpia which are these delicious little deep fried bits
of heaven. I neither saw nor heard fireworks because our apartment has
no windows. Apparently it was awesome and huge. Then we were in bed but <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_314089676" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">10:30</span></span> but awoken and <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_314089677" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">midnight</span></span>
by the loudest noises I've ever heard, even though our apartment is
like a soundproof bunker. Only one of our investigators was wounded as
she saved her baby from a wayward firework. The baby was unharmed. New
Years day was such a rough day of work because everyone was still drunk
or sleeping from being drunk or went on vacation because it's too crazy
in Manila for this holiday. But we found a lot of new people to teach,
only about half of which were drunk. Hah. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The best thing that happened this week was about
Elias Samonte. We've been cracking down on him because he isn't making
much lasting progress on his quitting of smoking. He'll quit for like a
few days and then smoke like 16 cigarettes and it's nuts. But, at church
on Sunday, he told me, "Gusto kong lumayo so inyo pero parang... hindi
ko kaya..." Which basically means that he doesn't want to be taught or
come to church but he like physically can't stay away. I laughed in his
face. We were fasting for him on Sunday and when he didn't show up to
church I was crushed. But he was just late. Then he told me about how he
was really not planning on coming to church that day but then, as he
was cooking, he was just really rushing and he didn't know why and then
somehow he changed his clothes and headed to church. It was hilarious.
He like really didn't want to come but the Lord basically grabbed him by
the collar and dragged him there. It was a great story. Then he bore
his testimony in Sacrament meeting and it was so powerful. He's such a
gem. Hopefully he'll be baptized in February. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That's all the miracles I have time for. Love you all. Stay safe ha.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-773330388121581388.post-48337938983955509922013-12-31T04:05:00.001+08:002013-12-31T04:05:51.172+08:00<div class="nH">
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<span></span><span alt="Sun, Dec 29, 2013 at 9:22 PM" class="g3" id=":u7" title="Sun, Dec 29, 2013 at 9:22 PM">9:22 PM (15 hours ago)</span><div class="zd" role="checkbox" style="outline: 0;" tabindex="-1">
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<span class="hb">to <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="me">me</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Amanda">Amanda</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Austin">Austin</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Elizabeth">Elizabeth</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Liza">Liza</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Jamie">Jamie</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Kendra">Kendra</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Lindsey">Lindsey</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Patrick">Patrick</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="D">D</span>, <span class="g2" dir="ltr" name="Ryan">Ryan</span> </span></div>
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That
was a strange Christmas call. The call dropped while you were making me
talk to the cat... and then time was up. Hah! But it was great hearing
your voices family! Mahal na mahal ko kayo!<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week was crazy time. We talked to SO MANY PEOPLE and it was
awesome. Christmas was three set dinner appointments with members and
then everyone else in the world forcing food down our throats. It was
painful. But it was beautiful because we had the opportunity to share
the reason of Christmas to all of Pasay City. But, sadly, the next day
was suffering the effects of food poisoning. It was painful. I'm still
feeling it. </div>
<div>
<br />However, <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1297519273" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">on Saturday</span></span>
we had the best day! Sister Tuia and I were feeling so sick but we felt
like we really had to work anyway so we did. We would walk around like
zombies and then pretend to be normal when we saw someone we needed to
talk to. Then we would turn into zombies immediately after until we
found someone else. It was awesome! We found a ton of people to teach!
But by the end of the day, we still hadn't reached our goal for new
investigators. We had set a high goal the night before and really had
faith that we could reach it. It was <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1297519274" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ">8:00 p.m.</span></span>
Our last appointment wasn't home and our back up was asleep. We were so
happy. It was a great opportunity to find a family to teach. We said a
prayer and the spirit led us to a street I'd never been down before. We
passed a home but turned back. I was apprehensive about knocking on the
door because it was late. But I knew the Lord wanted me to, so I did. A
father came to the door and I had no idea what I was going to say. I
opened my mouth and I don't remember the words that came out but he let
us in. We taught him, his wife, and his 8 children the message of the
Restoration of the Gospel. The spirit was strong and they invited us to
return. It's a simple story, but for me, it's a miracle. We set inspired
goals and worked with faith that the Lord would help us reach them even
though we felt so sick. The Lord loves us, but even more, He loves the
Monillas family and wanted them to hear His message of love and hope to
the world.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This week I've been super frustrated with the
disobedience of missionaries! I've accidently become the obedience
police and it's really awkward. BUT, in John 15:18-19, Jesus teaches
that if we want to be loved by the world, we have to join the world.
But, He says, "I have chosen you out of the world." Especially as
missionaries, we have a higher standard we must live by and though the
world, or even other missionaries, don't see the importance of it, the
Lord does. And that's that. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy New Year, family. Don't smooch too much.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sister Mecham</div>
</div>
Ruthhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08967582832254705838noreply@blogger.com0