[Christmas Day at 10:45am William was allowed to call home and talk for 40 minutes. I knew that I missed him, but I didn't realize how much, until I got to hear his voice.]
Merry Christmas, to everyone. I miss you all so much. Sorry that I wasn't able to call you during my layover in Georgia, my phone card didn't work. My companion and I are at Br. Rheems Home (the organist at church) doing laundry. Benson, you will never guess who my companion is! Nick Davis from my first year working on staff at Scofield scout camp. We are getting along great and are working hard from morning till night.
The weather is taking a little getting used to, It was Sunny, no snow and 32ยบ. You just don't expect it to be that cold outside when you are looking out the window. The Bishop here is really cool and he is very pro-missionaries. He is an optometrist at the Naval Base. He spends a lot of time helping us get exchanges and appointments from the members. Wednesday, since it was our P-day he took several of the missionaries along with his family to historic Williamsburg. We got to see alot of what it life was like in Colonial America. It is so cool out here, I can understand why Br. Campbell likes history so much. We have it all around us out here. At 5 o'clock they started firing cannons to celebrate Christmas eve, big blasts of smoke and loud bursts. The Bishop and his family have a Christmas tradition. They go to the "Blue Chicken" restaurant in Colonial Williamsburg, and get a hamburger, that has a fried egg and bacon on it. They said that they love it and the only get it at Christmas time. But you should try it sometime, it was delicous. While we were in Williamsburg all of the missionaries (7 in our district) played a game of freeze tag, I was silly but we sure hade fun, Because we were at Williamsburg, we didn't get to the library to get our emails, so the Bishop printed them out for us. I like getting emails, and really appreciate you sending them, but I would like to get some regular letters from you also. That way I can read them whenever I want.
The ward boundaries out here are really large, most of our members live in huge apartment complexes, or are part of the large Naval Base our here. Our ward boundaries are equal to Orem and Lindon combined, yet we have fewer ward members then our ward back home. Virginia is very different from Utah. It is pretty flat, at least where we are, but that is ok since we are riding bikes to get around. They have several bikes that are available for the missionaries to use, so I didn't have to buy one, I just picked out the one I wanted to use and will return it went I leave the area. Also. they don't have numbers on the streets, you just have to memorize the names of the streets and know where they go, and they don't have any sidewalks, and the streets are really narrow. The street system in Utah is much better.
This week we have a baptism, it is really amazing all the work that is going on out here. We will be biking around and then stop in an area where there are a bunch of people. We talk to people, answer questions about the church, and hand out cards, but we haven't got anyone the really seems to be interested just yet. There are so many people out here, a lot more then we have in Utah, and a lot more churchs too. Some of the churchs have buses that go around and pick people up for church. I told Elder Davis that in Utah instead of having buses they just plant another church there, or that the families have so have so many kids that they have their own buses.
I thought that the buildings out here would be older and historic. But I was told that they have "Community Burnings". If a neighborhood becomes rundown they move everyone out and burndown the entire neighborhood. Then they rebuild new houses and new people move in.
It is really weird to think that I have 1 month down, already. There is a saying that we learned in the MTC, "The days go by like weeks, and the weeks go by like days." While I was in the MTC for four weeks, all I could think about was, this is taking so long, I want to get out there and start teaching people about the Gospel, and now that I am looking back my time at the MTC seems like it was so short. The Mission President, (Pres Milburn) is pretty cool. I have only met him a couple of times.
On the flight out here they played "Wall-E", but I couldn't watch it, and there have been a couple of times that I have gotten a little homesick, like not getting to watch "It's a Wonderful Life" on Christmas Eve.
Benson, make it easier on yourself, start studying "Preach My Gospel" now. David and Andrew told me a couple of times to start but I didn't. So I am telling you that I wish that I had, and that you will wish that you had at least read it before going into the MTC. It will help you prepare you talk before you leave as well as help you to talk to people once you are out in the mission field. It will really help you to feel a lot more prepared once you get out on a mission. It sure is funny to think that Benson will be leaving on his mission just after I get back.
My day starts at about 6:30am when I wake up and exercise. At 7:00am I get dressed and eat some breakfast. At 8:00am I start my personal study time. At 9:00am elder Davis and I start our companionship study time. About 10:00-10:30am we are out the door to go tracting, proselyting, meeting with inactive members or doing splits with members until about 9:00 each night. Sometimes we take a dinner or lunch break but then we get back to our apartment and are in bed by 10:30pm. The next day it all starts over again. We spend a lot of time knocking on doors, but we haven't had any "slammed" in our face yet.
For dinner earlier this week I made "Katsu" and yeah, I burned it a little, but that's because we have a gas stove and it heats up the pan faster than I am used to. My companion and I are the only ones in our apartment. we have 2 bedrooms, one the we use as a bedroom and the other that is used for a study area.
We talked with a guy, this week that seemed really interested, we are planning on talking to him again next week. I am praying that he will want to hear more about the church. He had some questions, so I hope the we can meant with him again and answer them. It is amazing what you learn out here, we are literally studying every single day. We are praying that he will be interested hearing more about the church, and the message that we have for him. We also got a referral from another neighbor about a inactive wife and her nonmember husband. We went to their house and talked to the husband for a while, his name is Jim. We had a nice talked and he said that his wife would probably be interested in talking with us more but that he was not interested in coming to church. We left and my companion decided that we should tract around the area for a while. We went around the neighborhood and knocked on every door, but no one was home. When we got back to our bikes the husband that we hade been talking to called over to us and asked us if we were cold and if we wanted something for lunch. His wife had gotten home and we were able to spent lunch talking with them while he made hamburgers on the grill for us. His wife said that she was going to ask him how he felt about have the missionaries come over and talk with the both of them. We are praying that his heart will be softened and his mind prepared for the gospel.
Well, my time is up and I want you to know how much I love you. Merry Christmas to you.
[William]
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Monday, December 22, 2008
Merry Christmas, William - 12-22-08
William,
Merry Christmas, Son. It is really weird not having you here for Christmas. But, I know that you are where you are supposed to be, and doing exactly what you are supposed to be doing. I am very proud of you.
We got hit with a couple of major snow storms this week. Today alone we got about 8 inches of heavy, wet snow. Garth and Tricia are here and they are having fun sledding and playing. We planed on going to Salt Lake on Saturday to se the Temple lights and go see the Joseph Smith Movie, but I got called into work. We did a major software upgrade and rebuild a server. Fortunately I will get to use the extra time spent as “Comp Time” over the next couple of weeks.
Mary Ann and I got a chance to go to the Temple on Saturday and we did sealings for a bunch of people on my line. We had a very special experience when one of the names we did was great grandma Simonsen, Grandma Boy’s Grandmother. It was very special to have Mary Ann as the daughter when GG Simonsen was sealed to her parents.
This is what it is all about, the eternal Gospel of Jesus Christ, seals families together forever. I know that you have been taught correct principles and that now you have the opportunity to make your own decisions. So far you are off to a pretty good start.
Anneke and Benson will be here at the house on Christmas morning. So if you are able to call in the morning we will all be able to talk to you (Phone # 1-801-224-8964). I really am excited to hear about your first week in the mission field.
I want to leave you with a message from President Monson. How simple, straight forward and true his testimony is. And his love for the missionaries is clear and honest. I think that it will give you a lot of food for thought of the next several days.
Take care of yourself and know that we love you very much. I hope that you like what we got you for Christmas. I think that you will have a lot of fun using everything.
Merry Christmas, and we’ll talk to you on Christmas day.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
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Feeling the Lord's Inspiration
"I know without question, my brothers and sisters, that God lives. I testify to you that this is His work. I testify as well that our Savior Jesus Christ is at the head of this Church, which bears His name. I know that the sweetest experience in all this life is to feel His promptings as He directs us in the furtherance of His work. I felt those promptings as a young bishop, guided to the homes where there was spiritual—or perhaps temporal—want. I felt them again as a mission president in Toronto, Canada, working with wonderful missionaries who were a living witness and testimony to the world that this work is divine and that we are led by a prophet. I have felt them throughout my service in the Twelve and in the First Presidency and now as President of the Church. I testify that each one of us can feel the Lord's inspiration as we live worthily and strive to serve Him."
Merry Christmas, Son. It is really weird not having you here for Christmas. But, I know that you are where you are supposed to be, and doing exactly what you are supposed to be doing. I am very proud of you.
We got hit with a couple of major snow storms this week. Today alone we got about 8 inches of heavy, wet snow. Garth and Tricia are here and they are having fun sledding and playing. We planed on going to Salt Lake on Saturday to se the Temple lights and go see the Joseph Smith Movie, but I got called into work. We did a major software upgrade and rebuild a server. Fortunately I will get to use the extra time spent as “Comp Time” over the next couple of weeks.
Mary Ann and I got a chance to go to the Temple on Saturday and we did sealings for a bunch of people on my line. We had a very special experience when one of the names we did was great grandma Simonsen, Grandma Boy’s Grandmother. It was very special to have Mary Ann as the daughter when GG Simonsen was sealed to her parents.
This is what it is all about, the eternal Gospel of Jesus Christ, seals families together forever. I know that you have been taught correct principles and that now you have the opportunity to make your own decisions. So far you are off to a pretty good start.
Anneke and Benson will be here at the house on Christmas morning. So if you are able to call in the morning we will all be able to talk to you (Phone # 1-801-224-8964). I really am excited to hear about your first week in the mission field.
I want to leave you with a message from President Monson. How simple, straight forward and true his testimony is. And his love for the missionaries is clear and honest. I think that it will give you a lot of food for thought of the next several days.
Take care of yourself and know that we love you very much. I hope that you like what we got you for Christmas. I think that you will have a lot of fun using everything.
Merry Christmas, and we’ll talk to you on Christmas day.
Dad, Mary Ann, and Benson
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Feeling the Lord's Inspiration
"I know without question, my brothers and sisters, that God lives. I testify to you that this is His work. I testify as well that our Savior Jesus Christ is at the head of this Church, which bears His name. I know that the sweetest experience in all this life is to feel His promptings as He directs us in the furtherance of His work. I felt those promptings as a young bishop, guided to the homes where there was spiritual—or perhaps temporal—want. I felt them again as a mission president in Toronto, Canada, working with wonderful missionaries who were a living witness and testimony to the world that this work is divine and that we are led by a prophet. I have felt them throughout my service in the Twelve and in the First Presidency and now as President of the Church. I testify that each one of us can feel the Lord's inspiration as we live worthily and strive to serve Him."
William's Address 12-22-08
Hurray! We finally have an address for William in Virginia. Mary Ann called the Mission home and got it. It is:
Elder William Boy IV
12944 Biltmore Ct. #F3
Newport News, VA
23602
Elder William Boy IV
12944 Biltmore Ct. #F3
Newport News, VA
23602
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Joseph Smith Movie - 12-14-08
Dad,
Hey, This Wednesday I will try to call you at home around 2:00pm, when I get to Atlanta, So try to be there if you can. If not I will call you on Christmas.
Today I watched the Joseph Smith movie after our devotional. I have thoughts, but before I tell you I want you and Mary Ann and anyone else, to go up to Salt Lake and watch it before the new year. As you watch it think about the message that I am about to deliver to the people in Virginia. Now hoping that you will see the movie, (go to the next page.)
As I watched the movie I thought about the early saints that they could have said "No" and left the church and been left alone. But, they didn't, and now there is a gym full of missionaries ready to serve the Lord and bring people to the true gospel.
I Love you
- Elder Boy
P.S. I would like to have a picture of everyone.
Hey, This Wednesday I will try to call you at home around 2:00pm, when I get to Atlanta, So try to be there if you can. If not I will call you on Christmas.
Today I watched the Joseph Smith movie after our devotional. I have thoughts, but before I tell you I want you and Mary Ann and anyone else, to go up to Salt Lake and watch it before the new year. As you watch it think about the message that I am about to deliver to the people in Virginia. Now hoping that you will see the movie, (go to the next page.)
As I watched the movie I thought about the early saints that they could have said "No" and left the church and been left alone. But, they didn't, and now there is a gym full of missionaries ready to serve the Lord and bring people to the true gospel.
I Love you
- Elder Boy
P.S. I would like to have a picture of everyone.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Eagle Project lessons - 11-27-08
Dad,
Today was really cool, we had a member of the Seventy talk to us about mission success. The spirit was really strong during the meeting and I was able to really understand what he was saying and learned a lot from his talk.
Tell Suzie and Heidi thanks for the letters. I don't have my address book yet so I don't know their address'. If you want any pictures, you can ask Anneke for a copy of the pictures and movies on my card. Some of the movies are really funny and I think you will really like them.
[Anneke is maintaining William Mission Website at: http://sites.google.com/site/wboy4mission/Home]
As far as being here, I am ready to get out into the field and start sharing this great work. All though being here at the MTC is really cool and the knowledge that I have learned is really cool.
I also wanted to think you for the help you gave me on my Eagle Project. Today we all helped put together First Aid kits for the Humanitarian Center, and we watched some clips of some of the things the Humanitarian Center does and in a clip from Guatamala it showed some of the kits that I had put together for my Eagle Project. I remembered all that my kits have done and I remember the feeling that I had when we watched that movie up at the Humanitarian Center. I realized that through the Church we all have an opportunity to help people in need all over the world. In one clip there was a Lutheran Church that would give homeless people food and during the winter seasons the LDS Church would send food to them to make up for the shortage of food. I really felt good knowing that the Prophet wants to direct the Church toward helping people no matter who they are and knowing that has helped my testimony grow even more today. Christ wants his church to help all those in need and not just members of his church.
Your Son, I love you,
-Elder Boy
Today was really cool, we had a member of the Seventy talk to us about mission success. The spirit was really strong during the meeting and I was able to really understand what he was saying and learned a lot from his talk.
Tell Suzie and Heidi thanks for the letters. I don't have my address book yet so I don't know their address'. If you want any pictures, you can ask Anneke for a copy of the pictures and movies on my card. Some of the movies are really funny and I think you will really like them.
[Anneke is maintaining William Mission Website at: http://sites.google.com/site/wboy4mission/Home]
As far as being here, I am ready to get out into the field and start sharing this great work. All though being here at the MTC is really cool and the knowledge that I have learned is really cool.
I also wanted to think you for the help you gave me on my Eagle Project. Today we all helped put together First Aid kits for the Humanitarian Center, and we watched some clips of some of the things the Humanitarian Center does and in a clip from Guatamala it showed some of the kits that I had put together for my Eagle Project. I remembered all that my kits have done and I remember the feeling that I had when we watched that movie up at the Humanitarian Center. I realized that through the Church we all have an opportunity to help people in need all over the world. In one clip there was a Lutheran Church that would give homeless people food and during the winter seasons the LDS Church would send food to them to make up for the shortage of food. I really felt good knowing that the Prophet wants to direct the Church toward helping people no matter who they are and knowing that has helped my testimony grow even more today. Christ wants his church to help all those in need and not just members of his church.Your Son, I love you,
-Elder Boy
Time Balm - 12-14-08
Dad,
Well this week has gone by fast. I only have one more full week here and then I am gone to Virginia and I can't wait to get out there.
Today, I was at the Referral Center and had some time inbetween calls. I found a story at LDS.org and I thought that you might like to read it. Just go to LDS.org and search for computer, scroll down and click on "time"balm" and that is the story. I think you will really enjoy it.
There is also a scripture I would like you to read. I know you will like it Proverbs 23:13-14
[Proverbs 23:13-14 - Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell. ]
I love you,
Elder Boy
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Fiction:Time Balm by Rolf Devries
Rolf Devries, “Time Balm,” New Era, Jan 1997, 41
My sister was “talking” to me through my computer. But she had been dead for nine months.
“Robert! What do you mean, you want to use your mission fund on computer equipment? You made some commitments to us, to the bishop, and to your twin sister before she …” His voice trailed off. “I loved Rachel too, son. I miss her too. But don’t you think she would have wanted you to go on your mission regardless of what happened to her?”
I just shook my head. Dad was still going on. “It was nine months ago, son. Maybe she would have wanted us all to bury our grief by now and get on with our lives.”
“I agree with you,” I mumbled. “I want to get on with my life. So why can’t I just use my mission fund on some nice computer equipment? It’s not as if Rachel is around to demand I act like nothing has changed.”
I stomped up the stairs, slammed my bedroom door, threw myself into my desk chair, and stared into the blank computer screen. Another argument. A bad one.
After hyperventilating for a while, I pushed the “on” button and powered up. The thought occurred to me that I seemed to relate better to my computer than I did to humans.
Do you want to work on your AI program as usual, sir?
I “Yessed” the option, and my Artificial Intelligence program, which we had been perfecting for the last year, appeared.
We? I mean I’m working on it alone now. My sister Rachel and I developed it, but she …
I began to fiddle with the program. I have to admit, Rachel was even better than me when it came to computer programming. She could break into any of my personal files, and she’d often leave me a scripture or some word of encouragement that would pop up on my screen. She could even do this from her hospital bed during those last days; she had her portable laptop (plugged into my computer by modem) with her every minute.
I pulled my mind back.
Anyway, her Artificial Intelligence conversational programs were the best I’d ever seen. It worked like this. A question or statement appears on the screen, and anyone can type in an answer. Then—and this is the tricky part—the computer program recognizes a word or a phrase from the human’s answer, and automatically responds with a prewritten answer, as if it were another human. If the person writing the program knows the person well enough, it would seem as if a normal conversation is taking place between the human and the computer. Of course, the machine side of the conversation had all been preprogrammed.
The first question appeared:
I am fine. How are you?
I reply: “I am just great.” The computer recognizes “great” from my answer and gives its prewritten response:
You are great. That is nice. Why do you feel great?
But I decide to tell the truth and type in “I lied. I’ve been feeling rotten for the last nine months.”
The program replies mechanically:
You are feeling rotten? I am sorry to hear that.
At this point, I began to get carried away. I had the overpowering urge to spill my innermost thoughts to somebody or something—even this stupid computer. So I started typing and I couldn’t stop.
“I am feeling rotten because I miss my twin sister.” I could feel tears running down my cheeks, hitting my hands, then rolling on to the keys. “She never complained. She was always joking with me, telling me how she could read me like a book, telling me how she wanted me to promise her that I’d still go on my mission when I turned 19. And I did promise her, just to make her feel better. Then she used to joke that she’d come back to haunt me if I didn’t leave on my mission. She always had that sly grin, that ridiculous wink, even when the pain was the worst.
“But how can I keep that promise to her? How can I go on a mission and ‘proclaim the gospel’ when I feel so bitter inside?”
My computer clock buzzed. It was midnight, exactly nine months from the day of her death. For that matter, it was nine months from when I was supposed to send my mission papers in.
Suddenly my computer screen went blank, and my hard drive began to buzz oddly. This isn’t supposed to happen. Oh no, I thought. I had been neglecting to do a backup system.
Suddenly I heard the synthesized system sing, “Boy, you’re in big trouble and your hard drive’s gonna be rubble unless you repent on the double!” It was then the terrible message appeared in large red letters over my screen:
DO NOT ATTEMPT A RECOVERY! THIS IS A TIME BOMB! YOUR FILES HAVE JUST BEEN HOPELESSLY SCRAMBLED.
My hands froze over the keys. A time bomb! One of the most awful forms of computer viruses. I tried to remember all I could about this monstrous file-invading practical joke.
A time bomb is an invasion program keyed into a computer’s clock or calendar. It can be put into the system anytime in the past—weeks, even months. It can be set to scramble files, or do anything, when the clock reaches a certain time or date. You can’t get your files unscrambled unless you do exactly what it tells you.
Another message appeared:
And don’t even think about unplugging and using your backup. That’s rigged to scramble also.
It must be a bluff, I thought. I mean, how could anyone get into my backup files? Only if they had all my security codes. But how did someone get into my system in the first place? Nobody could plant a time bomb in my system unless they had all my codes. And there’s only one person who had them, and she’s …
A cold, dull feeling began spreading from the pit of my stomach to my trembling hands, still frozen over the keyboard. And another message began to materialize on my monitor:
Robbie? Don’t be mad. It’s me.—Rachel.
I felt my hands drop to my sides, and I began to breathe funny.
I know you may be a bit surprised, but it’s all perfectly logical, really. I programmed this time bomb to go off nine months after you were supposed to send in your mission papers. I had to do it this way because I knew I’d be gone by then. If you were nicely off on your mission, your computer would have been safely turned off, and the time bomb would have canceled itself out.
But you haven’t left yet, have you, Robbie? I knew if you stayed home, you’d still be fooling around on this stupid machine all day. So because the computer is turned on and you’re not on your mission the time bomb has been activated, and you and I are going to have a little talk.
Okay, listen up. If you do everything I say, this program will unscramble your files. If not, our two-year project goes to byte heaven. Okay? Type your answer here now. And it better be the right answer.
I typed in “OK.” I didn’t have much choice. I was pretty dazed. It was like, well, a voice from the dust.
Her program recognized the correct response, so instead of deleting my files, it responded.
Good boy. I don’t have much time, so let’s get down to business. Remember, back at the hospital you promised me you’d go on your mission? Now, you know I can read you like a book! You kept averting your eyes and looking guilty. So I knew I’d have to arrange a way to do what the Book of Mormon prophets did. I call it my 2 Nephi 33:13 program. [2 Ne. 33:13]
Anyway, Robbie, you didn’t go on your mission like you promised. So now’s your chance to explain yourself. Multiple choice. Pick one.
I, Robbie, didn’t go on my mission because (a) I had some unforeseen difficulties (such as a weird disease or something); (b) I have some sort of worthiness problem; (c) I am bitter about my sister’s death.
This was starting to get ridiculous. How would her program know if I were to make up some sort of fictitious disease and choose “A.” Still, I had only lied to her once and she seemed to have picked up on that with no problem. No sense taking any chances. I might as well come clean and tell the truth. I chose “C” and pressed “Enter.”
Aha! I thought so! You’re still bitter because I had to die?
I started typing in my replies as if I were talking to a real, live person.
“I’m bitter because you had to suffer, and I’m bitter because you died.”
Robbie, remember what we used to do when either of us had a problem we couldn’t figure out? We used to get together and have a mini-scripture chase to find the answers. Well, let’s try that again.
How can I have a scripture chase with someone who’s … who’s dead? I wondered.
Here’s how it works. I’ll give you the scriptures to look up and you type them into the computer. The program will recognize them, and soon you’ll have your precious files unscrambled.
Suddenly the computer started listing scriptures I had to copy. I grabbed a set of scriptures and tried to keep up.
D&C 122:7; D&C 122:9; Rom. 8:28; Abr. 3:25; Mosiah 3:19; Mosiah 23:21.
How long was I typing those scriptures back into the computer? Three hours? Five hours? And then I had to answer questions about each verse. It was like some late-night, unending seminary lesson.
Just when I thought I would collapse and fall asleep, precious files or no precious files, the program declared:
Good job! Break time! Have a ten-minute rest.
I sunk back in my chair. I looked out the window, into the cloudless night. All those stars. I noticed I was beginning to feel different. It seemed like my jaw muscles had been clamped together for months, and I had just remembered how to relax them. Was I just getting my second wind, or were those scriptures getting through to me?
Then I noticed I had been using Rachel’s scriptures, the set she used in the hospital. There was a single piece of notepaper stuffed between the leaves, in shaky handwriting:
“Thank you for comforting me these last months. When the pain gets the worst, and I just want to die and get it over with, the nurses and my parents try to comfort me, to make me braver. But they can’t say, ‘I know what you’re going through’ because, of course, they don’t. But you can, because you’re going through worse than me. You just put on that smile and wink at me. You look so funny when you wink, I just have to laugh and then I feel better. You know, I think no one can really understand anyone that is in pain unless they have suffered the same pain themselves.”
The signature ran off the page, unintelligible.
The sound synthesizer played a few trumpet calls, and I shook myself out of my thoughts. I was once more poised at the keyboard, ready to resume what seemed to be her never-ending scripture chase. But instead, the screen declared:
Now, after studying all those scriptures, you should know everything there is to know about why some people have to suffer and die. Yes or no?
I sighed and checked “No.” I had failed. I still didn’t completely understand.
Aha! Gotcha! Of course you don’t understand all the answers to all the questions mankind has been asking for ages. Nice to see you’re finally being honest about it, though.
But at least I got you studying the scriptures again. Keep studying them prayerfully. The answers are all in there. And even if you don’t completely understand everything, come on, admit it. As you read the scriptures again, didn’t you start to feel a little of the peace we always used to feel after a good scripture read?
Or maybe a lot, I thought.
Yes, Robbie, I had to suffer and die—just like a lot of other people. Like the others in my cancer ward, like the handcart pioneers, like Joseph Smith. I prayed, like you, because I wanted to know what was going on, but I didn’t get an answer. But at least I got a feeling of peace, like Heavenly Father was there with me, telling me it was necessary.
You must be reading this sometime after my death, so I guess by now I know all the answers. I wish I could really come back and explain everything to you, but I suppose it’s not my place to tell you. But I can tell you this. I am surrounded by great and good spirits, spirits that want their families who are still on the earth to hear the gospel. I never had the opportunity to go on a mission in earth life, but here, who knows? But I have done my job on earth and will do my job where I am now.
It’s time for you to do yours.
I looked at my hands, as they now rested on the keyboard. My tears had dried, and I realized the alarm clock was ringing. It was dawn. I let it ring. I had to type very slowly because my hands were still trembling.
“Yes, Solemn Twin Promise.”
The program recognized my response, and the printer activated itself, typing out a letter.
“Dear Bishop. I want to meet with you and talk about my mission. Can we get together this Sunday after church?”
Why don’t you sign this handy note and send it off tomorrow?
“Robbie.” My mother was calling from down the hall. “Your alarm clock’s ringing. Wake up and turn it off!”
I pulled the paper out of the printer, signed it, and addressed it to the bishop.
I knew you’d make me proud of you, Robbie! Now you can have our—your—files back, and it’s time for me to go. But when you return in two years or so, turn the computer back on. You never know what other surprise messages I’ve planted in it.
“I can hardly wait,” I replied.
The screen went blank again, and I could hear the drives at work as the time bomb program told them how to unscramble the AI project files. But just before the monitor returned to normal, the family picture file activated, and I caught a half-second glimpse of a picture of Rachel grinning.
And winking.
-----------------------
Well this week has gone by fast. I only have one more full week here and then I am gone to Virginia and I can't wait to get out there.
Today, I was at the Referral Center and had some time inbetween calls. I found a story at LDS.org and I thought that you might like to read it. Just go to LDS.org and search for computer, scroll down and click on "time"balm" and that is the story. I think you will really enjoy it.
There is also a scripture I would like you to read. I know you will like it Proverbs 23:13-14
[Proverbs 23:13-14 - Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell. ]
I love you,
Elder Boy
-----------------------
Fiction:Time Balm by Rolf Devries
Rolf Devries, “Time Balm,” New Era, Jan 1997, 41
My sister was “talking” to me through my computer. But she had been dead for nine months.
“Robert! What do you mean, you want to use your mission fund on computer equipment? You made some commitments to us, to the bishop, and to your twin sister before she …” His voice trailed off. “I loved Rachel too, son. I miss her too. But don’t you think she would have wanted you to go on your mission regardless of what happened to her?”
I just shook my head. Dad was still going on. “It was nine months ago, son. Maybe she would have wanted us all to bury our grief by now and get on with our lives.”
“I agree with you,” I mumbled. “I want to get on with my life. So why can’t I just use my mission fund on some nice computer equipment? It’s not as if Rachel is around to demand I act like nothing has changed.”
I stomped up the stairs, slammed my bedroom door, threw myself into my desk chair, and stared into the blank computer screen. Another argument. A bad one.
After hyperventilating for a while, I pushed the “on” button and powered up. The thought occurred to me that I seemed to relate better to my computer than I did to humans.
Do you want to work on your AI program as usual, sir?
I “Yessed” the option, and my Artificial Intelligence program, which we had been perfecting for the last year, appeared.
We? I mean I’m working on it alone now. My sister Rachel and I developed it, but she …
I began to fiddle with the program. I have to admit, Rachel was even better than me when it came to computer programming. She could break into any of my personal files, and she’d often leave me a scripture or some word of encouragement that would pop up on my screen. She could even do this from her hospital bed during those last days; she had her portable laptop (plugged into my computer by modem) with her every minute.
I pulled my mind back.
Anyway, her Artificial Intelligence conversational programs were the best I’d ever seen. It worked like this. A question or statement appears on the screen, and anyone can type in an answer. Then—and this is the tricky part—the computer program recognizes a word or a phrase from the human’s answer, and automatically responds with a prewritten answer, as if it were another human. If the person writing the program knows the person well enough, it would seem as if a normal conversation is taking place between the human and the computer. Of course, the machine side of the conversation had all been preprogrammed.
The first question appeared:
I am fine. How are you?
I reply: “I am just great.” The computer recognizes “great” from my answer and gives its prewritten response:
You are great. That is nice. Why do you feel great?
But I decide to tell the truth and type in “I lied. I’ve been feeling rotten for the last nine months.”
The program replies mechanically:
You are feeling rotten? I am sorry to hear that.
At this point, I began to get carried away. I had the overpowering urge to spill my innermost thoughts to somebody or something—even this stupid computer. So I started typing and I couldn’t stop.
“I am feeling rotten because I miss my twin sister.” I could feel tears running down my cheeks, hitting my hands, then rolling on to the keys. “She never complained. She was always joking with me, telling me how she could read me like a book, telling me how she wanted me to promise her that I’d still go on my mission when I turned 19. And I did promise her, just to make her feel better. Then she used to joke that she’d come back to haunt me if I didn’t leave on my mission. She always had that sly grin, that ridiculous wink, even when the pain was the worst.
“But how can I keep that promise to her? How can I go on a mission and ‘proclaim the gospel’ when I feel so bitter inside?”
My computer clock buzzed. It was midnight, exactly nine months from the day of her death. For that matter, it was nine months from when I was supposed to send my mission papers in.
Suddenly my computer screen went blank, and my hard drive began to buzz oddly. This isn’t supposed to happen. Oh no, I thought. I had been neglecting to do a backup system.
Suddenly I heard the synthesized system sing, “Boy, you’re in big trouble and your hard drive’s gonna be rubble unless you repent on the double!” It was then the terrible message appeared in large red letters over my screen:
DO NOT ATTEMPT A RECOVERY! THIS IS A TIME BOMB! YOUR FILES HAVE JUST BEEN HOPELESSLY SCRAMBLED.
My hands froze over the keys. A time bomb! One of the most awful forms of computer viruses. I tried to remember all I could about this monstrous file-invading practical joke.
A time bomb is an invasion program keyed into a computer’s clock or calendar. It can be put into the system anytime in the past—weeks, even months. It can be set to scramble files, or do anything, when the clock reaches a certain time or date. You can’t get your files unscrambled unless you do exactly what it tells you.
Another message appeared:
And don’t even think about unplugging and using your backup. That’s rigged to scramble also.
It must be a bluff, I thought. I mean, how could anyone get into my backup files? Only if they had all my security codes. But how did someone get into my system in the first place? Nobody could plant a time bomb in my system unless they had all my codes. And there’s only one person who had them, and she’s …
A cold, dull feeling began spreading from the pit of my stomach to my trembling hands, still frozen over the keyboard. And another message began to materialize on my monitor:
Robbie? Don’t be mad. It’s me.—Rachel.
I felt my hands drop to my sides, and I began to breathe funny.
I know you may be a bit surprised, but it’s all perfectly logical, really. I programmed this time bomb to go off nine months after you were supposed to send in your mission papers. I had to do it this way because I knew I’d be gone by then. If you were nicely off on your mission, your computer would have been safely turned off, and the time bomb would have canceled itself out.
But you haven’t left yet, have you, Robbie? I knew if you stayed home, you’d still be fooling around on this stupid machine all day. So because the computer is turned on and you’re not on your mission the time bomb has been activated, and you and I are going to have a little talk.
Okay, listen up. If you do everything I say, this program will unscramble your files. If not, our two-year project goes to byte heaven. Okay? Type your answer here now. And it better be the right answer.
I typed in “OK.” I didn’t have much choice. I was pretty dazed. It was like, well, a voice from the dust.
Her program recognized the correct response, so instead of deleting my files, it responded.
Good boy. I don’t have much time, so let’s get down to business. Remember, back at the hospital you promised me you’d go on your mission? Now, you know I can read you like a book! You kept averting your eyes and looking guilty. So I knew I’d have to arrange a way to do what the Book of Mormon prophets did. I call it my 2 Nephi 33:13 program. [2 Ne. 33:13]
Anyway, Robbie, you didn’t go on your mission like you promised. So now’s your chance to explain yourself. Multiple choice. Pick one.
I, Robbie, didn’t go on my mission because (a) I had some unforeseen difficulties (such as a weird disease or something); (b) I have some sort of worthiness problem; (c) I am bitter about my sister’s death.
This was starting to get ridiculous. How would her program know if I were to make up some sort of fictitious disease and choose “A.” Still, I had only lied to her once and she seemed to have picked up on that with no problem. No sense taking any chances. I might as well come clean and tell the truth. I chose “C” and pressed “Enter.”
Aha! I thought so! You’re still bitter because I had to die?
I started typing in my replies as if I were talking to a real, live person.
“I’m bitter because you had to suffer, and I’m bitter because you died.”
Robbie, remember what we used to do when either of us had a problem we couldn’t figure out? We used to get together and have a mini-scripture chase to find the answers. Well, let’s try that again.
How can I have a scripture chase with someone who’s … who’s dead? I wondered.
Here’s how it works. I’ll give you the scriptures to look up and you type them into the computer. The program will recognize them, and soon you’ll have your precious files unscrambled.
Suddenly the computer started listing scriptures I had to copy. I grabbed a set of scriptures and tried to keep up.
D&C 122:7; D&C 122:9; Rom. 8:28; Abr. 3:25; Mosiah 3:19; Mosiah 23:21.
How long was I typing those scriptures back into the computer? Three hours? Five hours? And then I had to answer questions about each verse. It was like some late-night, unending seminary lesson.
Just when I thought I would collapse and fall asleep, precious files or no precious files, the program declared:
Good job! Break time! Have a ten-minute rest.
I sunk back in my chair. I looked out the window, into the cloudless night. All those stars. I noticed I was beginning to feel different. It seemed like my jaw muscles had been clamped together for months, and I had just remembered how to relax them. Was I just getting my second wind, or were those scriptures getting through to me?
Then I noticed I had been using Rachel’s scriptures, the set she used in the hospital. There was a single piece of notepaper stuffed between the leaves, in shaky handwriting:
“Thank you for comforting me these last months. When the pain gets the worst, and I just want to die and get it over with, the nurses and my parents try to comfort me, to make me braver. But they can’t say, ‘I know what you’re going through’ because, of course, they don’t. But you can, because you’re going through worse than me. You just put on that smile and wink at me. You look so funny when you wink, I just have to laugh and then I feel better. You know, I think no one can really understand anyone that is in pain unless they have suffered the same pain themselves.”
The signature ran off the page, unintelligible.
The sound synthesizer played a few trumpet calls, and I shook myself out of my thoughts. I was once more poised at the keyboard, ready to resume what seemed to be her never-ending scripture chase. But instead, the screen declared:
Now, after studying all those scriptures, you should know everything there is to know about why some people have to suffer and die. Yes or no?
I sighed and checked “No.” I had failed. I still didn’t completely understand.
Aha! Gotcha! Of course you don’t understand all the answers to all the questions mankind has been asking for ages. Nice to see you’re finally being honest about it, though.
But at least I got you studying the scriptures again. Keep studying them prayerfully. The answers are all in there. And even if you don’t completely understand everything, come on, admit it. As you read the scriptures again, didn’t you start to feel a little of the peace we always used to feel after a good scripture read?
Or maybe a lot, I thought.
Yes, Robbie, I had to suffer and die—just like a lot of other people. Like the others in my cancer ward, like the handcart pioneers, like Joseph Smith. I prayed, like you, because I wanted to know what was going on, but I didn’t get an answer. But at least I got a feeling of peace, like Heavenly Father was there with me, telling me it was necessary.
You must be reading this sometime after my death, so I guess by now I know all the answers. I wish I could really come back and explain everything to you, but I suppose it’s not my place to tell you. But I can tell you this. I am surrounded by great and good spirits, spirits that want their families who are still on the earth to hear the gospel. I never had the opportunity to go on a mission in earth life, but here, who knows? But I have done my job on earth and will do my job where I am now.
It’s time for you to do yours.
I looked at my hands, as they now rested on the keyboard. My tears had dried, and I realized the alarm clock was ringing. It was dawn. I let it ring. I had to type very slowly because my hands were still trembling.
“Yes, Solemn Twin Promise.”
The program recognized my response, and the printer activated itself, typing out a letter.
“Dear Bishop. I want to meet with you and talk about my mission. Can we get together this Sunday after church?”
Why don’t you sign this handy note and send it off tomorrow?
“Robbie.” My mother was calling from down the hall. “Your alarm clock’s ringing. Wake up and turn it off!”
I pulled the paper out of the printer, signed it, and addressed it to the bishop.
I knew you’d make me proud of you, Robbie! Now you can have our—your—files back, and it’s time for me to go. But when you return in two years or so, turn the computer back on. You never know what other surprise messages I’ve planted in it.
“I can hardly wait,” I replied.
The screen went blank again, and I could hear the drives at work as the time bomb program told them how to unscramble the AI project files. But just before the monitor returned to normal, the family picture file activated, and I caught a half-second glimpse of a picture of Rachel grinning.
And winking.
-----------------------
Sunday, December 14, 2008
The Church needs everyone - 12-14-08
William,
I can’t believe that you are already heading for Virginia. I am just getting used to sending you emails through DearElder.com. I was talking to Heidi, and she said that I should get used to using snail mail, and buy some stamps. I guess that I can get used to that. We are going to send your Christmas box to the mission home to make sure that it gets there in time. If you are able to call on Wednesday we will be home until 8:30am and then you can call Mary Ann’s Cell # 1-(801)-358-9644. I will drop everything for a chance to talk to you again.
Benson fixed the window and door handle on the truck. Remember I told you that someone broke it. Tricia is here, she starts work on Monday. As we drove back from Cedar city we got stuck behind an accident for 1.5 hours, while it snowed 6 inches. It took us 3 hours to get there, and 6 hours to get back. I told Tricia that while she is here I would teach her how to do donuts in the snow. She was really excited about that.
I talked with Sis. Luebke today at church and told her that you had some very fond memories about being at there cabin and hearing the story first hand from Br. Luebke. I gave her the address of the blog that I have started and asked her to visit it. I think that she would like to read the stories about how much good Scott did with the young men that he served.
You asked me read D&C 138:57 and to give you my feelings on the subject.
D&C 138:57 I beheld that the faithful elders of this dispensation, when they depart from mortal life, continue their labors in the preaching of the gospel of repentance and redemption, through the sacrifice of the Only Begotten Son of God, among those who are in darkness and under the bondage of sin in the great world of the spirits of the dead.
I have a testimony that this principle of the gospel is true. I know that those that love us and have died continue to watch over us and help us. President James Faust told a group of genealogist that if they got more priesthood holders on the other side of the veil, that they would see an increase in the number of ordinances performed for the dead.
After 40 years of looking for your Great-Grandma Boy parents, without any luck, we were able to seal her to the family that raised her a short 3 months after Grandpa Boy died. I know that he helped us to find the information necessary to help seal his family. Who better to help his family in their eternal progression then a holder of the Melchizedek Priesthood?
In Elders Quorum today we talked about how the church needs every member to be unified, brothers and sisters in the gospel, and that each member must give their full measure in the spreading of the Gospel, and that our Heavenly Father wants us to become Gods and Goddesses ourselves.
“The Church needs everyone of you. It needs your strength. It needs your energy. It needs your enthusiasm. It needs your loyalty and devotion and faith.” – Gordon B. Hinckley
After this was read Br. Sean Bryant said that the way Heavenly Father helps us grow is through adversity, when he said this, “While we are building up his kingdom, the Lord is building up us.” I thought this was worth passing along to you. I hope that you find strength in these thoughts.
I love you son, and I am so proud of you. I can see real growth in you over just the last couple of weeks. I can only imagine what the Lord has in store for you in Virginia. But I am sure that he will prepare you, watch over you, and help you to find the strength needed to complete what is asked of you.
Return with Honor,
Dad
I can’t believe that you are already heading for Virginia. I am just getting used to sending you emails through DearElder.com. I was talking to Heidi, and she said that I should get used to using snail mail, and buy some stamps. I guess that I can get used to that. We are going to send your Christmas box to the mission home to make sure that it gets there in time. If you are able to call on Wednesday we will be home until 8:30am and then you can call Mary Ann’s Cell # 1-(801)-358-9644. I will drop everything for a chance to talk to you again.
Benson fixed the window and door handle on the truck. Remember I told you that someone broke it. Tricia is here, she starts work on Monday. As we drove back from Cedar city we got stuck behind an accident for 1.5 hours, while it snowed 6 inches. It took us 3 hours to get there, and 6 hours to get back. I told Tricia that while she is here I would teach her how to do donuts in the snow. She was really excited about that.
I talked with Sis. Luebke today at church and told her that you had some very fond memories about being at there cabin and hearing the story first hand from Br. Luebke. I gave her the address of the blog that I have started and asked her to visit it. I think that she would like to read the stories about how much good Scott did with the young men that he served.
You asked me read D&C 138:57 and to give you my feelings on the subject.
D&C 138:57 I beheld that the faithful elders of this dispensation, when they depart from mortal life, continue their labors in the preaching of the gospel of repentance and redemption, through the sacrifice of the Only Begotten Son of God, among those who are in darkness and under the bondage of sin in the great world of the spirits of the dead.
I have a testimony that this principle of the gospel is true. I know that those that love us and have died continue to watch over us and help us. President James Faust told a group of genealogist that if they got more priesthood holders on the other side of the veil, that they would see an increase in the number of ordinances performed for the dead.
After 40 years of looking for your Great-Grandma Boy parents, without any luck, we were able to seal her to the family that raised her a short 3 months after Grandpa Boy died. I know that he helped us to find the information necessary to help seal his family. Who better to help his family in their eternal progression then a holder of the Melchizedek Priesthood?
In Elders Quorum today we talked about how the church needs every member to be unified, brothers and sisters in the gospel, and that each member must give their full measure in the spreading of the Gospel, and that our Heavenly Father wants us to become Gods and Goddesses ourselves.
“The Church needs everyone of you. It needs your strength. It needs your energy. It needs your enthusiasm. It needs your loyalty and devotion and faith.” – Gordon B. Hinckley
After this was read Br. Sean Bryant said that the way Heavenly Father helps us grow is through adversity, when he said this, “While we are building up his kingdom, the Lord is building up us.” I thought this was worth passing along to you. I hope that you find strength in these thoughts.
I love you son, and I am so proud of you. I can see real growth in you over just the last couple of weeks. I can only imagine what the Lord has in store for you in Virginia. But I am sure that he will prepare you, watch over you, and help you to find the strength needed to complete what is asked of you.
Return with Honor,
Dad
Thinking about Br Luebke - 12-14-08
Dear Dad,
I guess that in order to get mail from you I have to send mail to you. Well today was great, during gym class I was able to workout and then after lunch I started studying Lesson 3, "The Gospel of Jesus Christ".
All I could think about was Bro. Luebke's story. Thank you again for sending it to me, I really needed to hear that story again. The warmth that I feel from that story is incredible and I can't believe how dearly those nights at Bro. Luebke's cabin came back to me in such detail. I still remember him standing in front of us, telling us the story like it was yesterday.
I really enjoy getting your letters and get kind of "down" when the only person that has sent me letters from DearElder.com is you. I would really like even just a small hello from you.
Well, only a few day's until I leave for Virginia, and I can't wait.
I love you,
-Elder Boy
I guess that in order to get mail from you I have to send mail to you. Well today was great, during gym class I was able to workout and then after lunch I started studying Lesson 3, "The Gospel of Jesus Christ".
All I could think about was Bro. Luebke's story. Thank you again for sending it to me, I really needed to hear that story again. The warmth that I feel from that story is incredible and I can't believe how dearly those nights at Bro. Luebke's cabin came back to me in such detail. I still remember him standing in front of us, telling us the story like it was yesterday.
I really enjoy getting your letters and get kind of "down" when the only person that has sent me letters from DearElder.com is you. I would really like even just a small hello from you.
Well, only a few day's until I leave for Virginia, and I can't wait.
I love you,
-Elder Boy
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Br Luebke's Influence - 12-11-08
Dad,
Thank you for the story (from the New Era) that is one of my favorites. As I read it I can still remember Bro Luebke telling that story to all of the teachers quorum up at his cabin. Then after he was done we all walked out to a clearing and separated, and had our own personal prayer in the still, quiet space. Looking back on that time, I wish that I could have done it more and cherished that time more.
After Bro. Luebke died, we talked about what he was doing. In Doctrine and Covenants 138:57 it talks about missionary work in heaven. I would like you to read it some time and tell me how it makes you feel.
I know with full asurety that Bro. Luebke is working hard in heaven and helping David find the people that are ready for the Gospel.
You asked what I would like for Christmas and I would really like a copy of this months New Era, so that I have a copy to hold onto, and read that story from the book. that story really has value to me in many ways. It has helped me in my life, and looking back in my life I would be a whole lot different without Bro. Leubke and David's influence.
Thank you again for sending it to me in a letter, and thank you for knowing what I needed to remind me of the lessons that I have already learned in my life.
Thank you and I love you.
- Elder Boy, your son, forever!
P.S. Can you send that to Anneke and have her put it up under the scriptures tab as New Era Dec 08 - The Gift Box by Scott Luebke
Thank you for the story (from the New Era) that is one of my favorites. As I read it I can still remember Bro Luebke telling that story to all of the teachers quorum up at his cabin. Then after he was done we all walked out to a clearing and separated, and had our own personal prayer in the still, quiet space. Looking back on that time, I wish that I could have done it more and cherished that time more.
After Bro. Luebke died, we talked about what he was doing. In Doctrine and Covenants 138:57 it talks about missionary work in heaven. I would like you to read it some time and tell me how it makes you feel.
I know with full asurety that Bro. Luebke is working hard in heaven and helping David find the people that are ready for the Gospel.
You asked what I would like for Christmas and I would really like a copy of this months New Era, so that I have a copy to hold onto, and read that story from the book. that story really has value to me in many ways. It has helped me in my life, and looking back in my life I would be a whole lot different without Bro. Leubke and David's influence.
Thank you again for sending it to me in a letter, and thank you for knowing what I needed to remind me of the lessons that I have already learned in my life.
Thank you and I love you.
- Elder Boy, your son, forever!
P.S. Can you send that to Anneke and have her put it up under the scriptures tab as New Era Dec 08 - The Gift Box by Scott Luebke
Friday, December 12, 2008
1st Pres Christmas Broadcast - 12-9-08
Dad,
Hey, just wondering what is going on at home and how everyone is doing.I hope all is well and that everyone is getting ready for Christmas. There was a Christmas broadcast from the First Presidency yesterday and it was really cool to hear the prophet talk about Christmas and the true meaning of it.
-Elder Boy
Hey, just wondering what is going on at home and how everyone is doing.I hope all is well and that everyone is getting ready for Christmas. There was a Christmas broadcast from the First Presidency yesterday and it was really cool to hear the prophet talk about Christmas and the true meaning of it.
-Elder Boy
The Gift Box - 12-8-08
William,
I talked to Grandma Boy yesterday, she went to her Ward Christmas party and told everyone that she had 3 grandson on mission this year. She is so proud of all of you.
We went to the company Christmas party last week. It was at Thanksgiving point. They had entertainment, it was a group called "Octepella" they sang without any instrument backup, and they were funny too. They sounded like the guys that sing "Where in the world is Carmen San Diego.
We are getting ready for Christmas, cleaning the house and getting gifts. On Saturday we had our Ward party, it was a "Day of Caring" we made over 30 gift boxes for families that would not have Christmas this year.
In Elders Quorum I was asked to tell about a Christ-like Christmas that our family has had. I told how we had done a Sub for Santa for a family when you kids were very young, and how much fun you kids had helping buy Christmas for a family that you would never meet.
This Saturday we are driving to Las Vegas to pick up Patricia so that she can work over the Christmas vacation. I am not sure if you have been keeping in touch with David Luebke, but his Dad had a story in this months New Era. I thought that you would enjoy it if you haven't had a chance to read it yet.
--------------------------------
The Gift Box
by Scott Luebke
When I was seven, I thought I had the true meaning of christmas all figured out. Christmas was more than just receiving gifts. You had to be willing to give a gift if you expected to receive one in return. Each year our gifts to friends and neighbors were Mom's holiday cookies and candies. Her walnut divinity was famous. My sisters and I would pitch in to help deliver plates of treats around the neighborhood. The neighbors would reciprocate by delivering their own favorite treats to our house— completing the exchange program. That year the last of the neighbors came by with their gift on Christmas Eve. However, instead of a plate of cookies, they gave us a small, beautifully wrapped present. They instructed us not to open it until we had opened all the other gifts under the tree the next day.
I used my best detective skills to try to determine what was inside. But the only clue I could find was a gift tag that merely added to my curiosity: "To the Luebke Family—the Greatest Gift of All." That was quite a promise for such a small box—especially when all we had given them was homemade cookies and candy. Christmas morning finally came, and we opened all our presents. (Then, as we sat in the carnage of torn wrapping paper and opened boxes, Mom brought out the mysterious gift and read the tag. My sister and I fought over who would open it. I don't recall who won, but I clearly remember my disappointment when I saw what was inside the box— nothing except a card. I had been skeptical that this gift would really be "the Greatest Gift of All," but I had certainly expected more than a handwritten card. Mom, on the other hand, was visibly touched by the card.
The next year when the Christmas decorations went up, the little present was back under the tree, like an unwanted fruitcake. I lifted the lid, hoping that I had missed something the year before. But it proved again to be an empty box with a simple card in it. As the years went by, that little gift became a family tradition. Every year it was the first present under the tree and the last one opened on Christmas morning. In my teenage years my attitude began to soften toward the little gift.The first Christmas after my mission, I headed home for the holidays after a semester at college. As I walked through the door, the memory of many Christmases at home came flooding back. As I looked in the living room, I saw it, that unusual little present, alone under the tree. It showed the wear of having many heavy packages piled on top of it over the years. I picked it up with a reverence I had never shown it before. The tag was still attached: "To the Luebke Family—the Greatest Gift of All." As I lifted the lid and read the card inside, I now had a testimony that it truly did represent the greatest gift our family could ever be given. It read, "From Jesus Christ— The Gift of Eternal Life."
I am grateful for the family who gave us this family tradition that has blessed our Christmases by reminding us of the greatest gift of all.
--------------------------------
I can't believe that next week you will be heading for Virginia. Let us know if there is anything that you need or want for Christmas? We are putting together a care package for you, so let us know soon. Also we will need your new address as soon as possible so we can get the care package in the mail in time to get it to you for Christmas.
We love you, and pray for you and all of the missionaries everyday.
-Dad, Mary Ann and Benson
I talked to Grandma Boy yesterday, she went to her Ward Christmas party and told everyone that she had 3 grandson on mission this year. She is so proud of all of you.
We went to the company Christmas party last week. It was at Thanksgiving point. They had entertainment, it was a group called "Octepella" they sang without any instrument backup, and they were funny too. They sounded like the guys that sing "Where in the world is Carmen San Diego.
We are getting ready for Christmas, cleaning the house and getting gifts. On Saturday we had our Ward party, it was a "Day of Caring" we made over 30 gift boxes for families that would not have Christmas this year.
In Elders Quorum I was asked to tell about a Christ-like Christmas that our family has had. I told how we had done a Sub for Santa for a family when you kids were very young, and how much fun you kids had helping buy Christmas for a family that you would never meet.
This Saturday we are driving to Las Vegas to pick up Patricia so that she can work over the Christmas vacation. I am not sure if you have been keeping in touch with David Luebke, but his Dad had a story in this months New Era. I thought that you would enjoy it if you haven't had a chance to read it yet.
--------------------------------
The Gift Box
by Scott Luebke
When I was seven, I thought I had the true meaning of christmas all figured out. Christmas was more than just receiving gifts. You had to be willing to give a gift if you expected to receive one in return. Each year our gifts to friends and neighbors were Mom's holiday cookies and candies. Her walnut divinity was famous. My sisters and I would pitch in to help deliver plates of treats around the neighborhood. The neighbors would reciprocate by delivering their own favorite treats to our house— completing the exchange program. That year the last of the neighbors came by with their gift on Christmas Eve. However, instead of a plate of cookies, they gave us a small, beautifully wrapped present. They instructed us not to open it until we had opened all the other gifts under the tree the next day.
I used my best detective skills to try to determine what was inside. But the only clue I could find was a gift tag that merely added to my curiosity: "To the Luebke Family—the Greatest Gift of All." That was quite a promise for such a small box—especially when all we had given them was homemade cookies and candy. Christmas morning finally came, and we opened all our presents. (Then, as we sat in the carnage of torn wrapping paper and opened boxes, Mom brought out the mysterious gift and read the tag. My sister and I fought over who would open it. I don't recall who won, but I clearly remember my disappointment when I saw what was inside the box— nothing except a card. I had been skeptical that this gift would really be "the Greatest Gift of All," but I had certainly expected more than a handwritten card. Mom, on the other hand, was visibly touched by the card.
The next year when the Christmas decorations went up, the little present was back under the tree, like an unwanted fruitcake. I lifted the lid, hoping that I had missed something the year before. But it proved again to be an empty box with a simple card in it. As the years went by, that little gift became a family tradition. Every year it was the first present under the tree and the last one opened on Christmas morning. In my teenage years my attitude began to soften toward the little gift.The first Christmas after my mission, I headed home for the holidays after a semester at college. As I walked through the door, the memory of many Christmases at home came flooding back. As I looked in the living room, I saw it, that unusual little present, alone under the tree. It showed the wear of having many heavy packages piled on top of it over the years. I picked it up with a reverence I had never shown it before. The tag was still attached: "To the Luebke Family—the Greatest Gift of All." As I lifted the lid and read the card inside, I now had a testimony that it truly did represent the greatest gift our family could ever be given. It read, "From Jesus Christ— The Gift of Eternal Life."
I am grateful for the family who gave us this family tradition that has blessed our Christmases by reminding us of the greatest gift of all.
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I can't believe that next week you will be heading for Virginia. Let us know if there is anything that you need or want for Christmas? We are putting together a care package for you, so let us know soon. Also we will need your new address as soon as possible so we can get the care package in the mail in time to get it to you for Christmas.
We love you, and pray for you and all of the missionaries everyday.
-Dad, Mary Ann and Benson
She Might be an Angel - 12-08-08
Dear Dad,
Dad, this song has been in my head for the past week. (She Might be an Angel) I think it is because all we have been talking about this week is Charity. Everytime I think about it, I think of you, and those many times you have told me, and the times that I have been there to see the times that you helped those in need. In those times you were a big example to me, and you showed me that charity is another way to thank my Heavenly Father for the blessings that I have.On my mission I will have many opportunities to serve and to help people, and I hope that I can be as selfless as you are when those times come.
Thank you,
Elder Boy
She Might be an Angel
by Steiner Tommy Shane
There's a man standing on the corner
With a sign sayin "will work for food"
You know the man
You see him every morning
The one you never give your money to
You can sit there with your window rolled up
Wondering when the lights going to turn green
Never knowing what a couple more bucks
In his pocket might mean
What if he's an angel sent here from Heaven
And he's making certain that you're doing your best
To take the time to help one another
Brother are you going to pass that test
You can go on with your day to day
Trying to forget what you saw in his face
Knowing deep down it could have been his saving grace
What if he's an angel
There's a man, There's a woman
Living right above you in apartment
G, There's alot of noise coming from the ceiling
And it don't sound like harmony
You can sit there with your TV turned up
While the words and his anger fly
Come tomorrow when you see her with her shades on
Can you look her in the eye
What if she's sent here from heaven
And she's making certain that you're doing your best
To take the time to help one another
Brother are you going to pass that test
You can go on with your day to day
Trying to forget what you saw in her face
Knowing deep down it could have been her saving grace
What if she's an angel
A little girl on daddy's lap
Hiding her disease with a baseball cap
You can turn the channel, Most people do
But what if you were sitting in her daddy's shoes
Maybe she's an angel
Sent here from Heaven
And she's making certain you're doing your best
To take the time to help one another
Brother are you going to pass that test
You can go on with your day to day
Trying to forget what you saw in her face
Knowing deep down it could have been her saving grace
What if she's an angel
Dad, this song has been in my head for the past week. (She Might be an Angel) I think it is because all we have been talking about this week is Charity. Everytime I think about it, I think of you, and those many times you have told me, and the times that I have been there to see the times that you helped those in need. In those times you were a big example to me, and you showed me that charity is another way to thank my Heavenly Father for the blessings that I have.On my mission I will have many opportunities to serve and to help people, and I hope that I can be as selfless as you are when those times come.
Thank you,
Elder Boy
She Might be an Angel
by Steiner Tommy Shane
There's a man standing on the corner
With a sign sayin "will work for food"
You know the man
You see him every morning
The one you never give your money to
You can sit there with your window rolled up
Wondering when the lights going to turn green
Never knowing what a couple more bucks
In his pocket might mean
What if he's an angel sent here from Heaven
And he's making certain that you're doing your best
To take the time to help one another
Brother are you going to pass that test
You can go on with your day to day
Trying to forget what you saw in his face
Knowing deep down it could have been his saving grace
What if he's an angel
There's a man, There's a woman
Living right above you in apartment
G, There's alot of noise coming from the ceiling
And it don't sound like harmony
You can sit there with your TV turned up
While the words and his anger fly
Come tomorrow when you see her with her shades on
Can you look her in the eye
What if she's sent here from heaven
And she's making certain that you're doing your best
To take the time to help one another
Brother are you going to pass that test
You can go on with your day to day
Trying to forget what you saw in her face
Knowing deep down it could have been her saving grace
What if she's an angel
A little girl on daddy's lap
Hiding her disease with a baseball cap
You can turn the channel, Most people do
But what if you were sitting in her daddy's shoes
Maybe she's an angel
Sent here from Heaven
And she's making certain you're doing your best
To take the time to help one another
Brother are you going to pass that test
You can go on with your day to day
Trying to forget what you saw in her face
Knowing deep down it could have been her saving grace
What if she's an angel
Email to William - 12-2-08
Son,
I love you, and I am sorry that I haven't taken the time to write you an email this week. I am very proud of you and the growth that you have shown these last several weeks.
Your mother and I have had more pleasant conversations since you have left, then the entire time since the divorce. So there are some benefits that we are seeing because of your mission already.
Keep up the great work, I love you
- Dad
I love you, and I am sorry that I haven't taken the time to write you an email this week. I am very proud of you and the growth that you have shown these last several weeks.
Your mother and I have had more pleasant conversations since you have left, then the entire time since the divorce. So there are some benefits that we are seeing because of your mission already.
Keep up the great work, I love you
- Dad
William's Email Address - 12-2-08
Dad,
Just thought that you would like to know that I have an email account now.
It is gameday@myldsmail.com.
If you would like to email me sometime today I only have 1/2 hour. I can spend it how I want, so if you email me anytime today before 3pm I should get it. Anytime after that I might not get it until next week.
-Elder Boy
Just thought that you would like to know that I have an email account now.
It is gameday@myldsmail.com.
If you would like to email me sometime today I only have 1/2 hour. I can spend it how I want, so if you email me anytime today before 3pm I should get it. Anytime after that I might not get it until next week.
-Elder Boy
Bean Bag Chair and the Roof - 11-26-08
This last week has been really fast and yet each day is really slow. I feel like I have been here forever and really want to get out in to the field and start helping people find the true and everlasting gospel.I have had some really cool experiences that I will have to tell you when I get home so don't forget to remind me about the cat and the water balloon launcher, so anyway, the MTC is really cool and I can't wait to get out of here.
Some of the people here are really cool and I never want to see them again, and the bean bag chair and the roof are not good things to use in a sentence so ( no I promised that I would not tell anyone about that fun little experience and so don't ask just think about all the thing you can do on top of a roof with a bean bag chair) so this week has had some fun time and some fast falls but we are all ok except for elder... ha you thought that I would tell you the name
bye, love you all and I pray that you are all safe. Thank you for the packages(high pitched) "BYE!"
- Elder boy
Some of the people here are really cool and I never want to see them again, and the bean bag chair and the roof are not good things to use in a sentence so ( no I promised that I would not tell anyone about that fun little experience and so don't ask just think about all the thing you can do on top of a roof with a bean bag chair) so this week has had some fun time and some fast falls but we are all ok except for elder... ha you thought that I would tell you the name
bye, love you all and I pray that you are all safe. Thank you for the packages(high pitched) "BYE!"
- Elder boy
Ultra-Concentrated Joy - 11-24-08
Hello Son,
We spent the weekend getting the yard ready for winter. We raked all of the leaves, cleaned out the garage out and put the Christmas lights on the house. We got all of the Halloween decorations up in the garage and all of the Christmas decorations down.Sue and Grandma send their love and said that they got the thank you notes that you wrote them. I hope that you get a chance to see ‘Mooker’ at Thanksgiving dinner.Mom told me that you have a companion from Washington State, Elder MacIntire. Mary Ann used to live in Kent, Washington. What city is Elder MacIntire from? Benson taught Indy how to shake hands, it’s really cute. Someone broke into the truck while Benson was on a date with the priest quorum. They broke the door handle and the driver’s side window. But they didn’t take anything.I was pleased and surprised to see that Anneke DID really did update your home page. I will get the pictures from the MTC to Mom so they can get put onto your page.
Well at church on Sunday Ben Sampson gave a talk about how the gospel
shows us that we can find true happiness. He was walking down the detergent aisle at Wal-mart and found a bottle of “Ultra-Concentrated Joy” (like the bottle that we have by the sink) and then it hit him. We can be happy if we live a good life, and we can be happy if we make good choices. But if we follow the Lords plan and live a life that is in harmony with the gospel of Jesus Christ we can know “Ultra-Concentrated Joy”
William, at this Thanksgiving time I want you to know how thankful that I am for the gospel and the part that it has played in helping me to know how to find true happiness. I also want you to know how thankful I am to have you as a son. I hope that you are learning a lot in the MTC and finding a happiness that will help to set the tone for your entire mission.
I love you son, and I find myself thinking about you all the time. Mary Ann sends her love, and Benson just grunted when I asked him if he wanted to say something to you.
Love, - Dad
We spent the weekend getting the yard ready for winter. We raked all of the leaves, cleaned out the garage out and put the Christmas lights on the house. We got all of the Halloween decorations up in the garage and all of the Christmas decorations down.Sue and Grandma send their love and said that they got the thank you notes that you wrote them. I hope that you get a chance to see ‘Mooker’ at Thanksgiving dinner.Mom told me that you have a companion from Washington State, Elder MacIntire. Mary Ann used to live in Kent, Washington. What city is Elder MacIntire from? Benson taught Indy how to shake hands, it’s really cute. Someone broke into the truck while Benson was on a date with the priest quorum. They broke the door handle and the driver’s side window. But they didn’t take anything.I was pleased and surprised to see that Anneke DID really did update your home page. I will get the pictures from the MTC to Mom so they can get put onto your page.
Well at church on Sunday Ben Sampson gave a talk about how the gospel
shows us that we can find true happiness. He was walking down the detergent aisle at Wal-mart and found a bottle of “Ultra-Concentrated Joy” (like the bottle that we have by the sink) and then it hit him. We can be happy if we live a good life, and we can be happy if we make good choices. But if we follow the Lords plan and live a life that is in harmony with the gospel of Jesus Christ we can know “Ultra-Concentrated Joy”William, at this Thanksgiving time I want you to know how thankful that I am for the gospel and the part that it has played in helping me to know how to find true happiness. I also want you to know how thankful I am to have you as a son. I hope that you are learning a lot in the MTC and finding a happiness that will help to set the tone for your entire mission.
I love you son, and I find myself thinking about you all the time. Mary Ann sends her love, and Benson just grunted when I asked him if he wanted to say something to you.
Love, - Dad
Letter to Dad- 11-23-08
Dear Dad,
Today was really relaxed and I was able to take it easy today. Also, I saw Elder Bentz today at lunch.Just a quick update, my Companion is Elder McIntire, he is from Washington and is a really cool companion. I am really excited to get out to Virginia and start working. I might be leaving one week later then expected, but I will let you know after Monday. My P-day (preparation day) is Tuesday so I will email you at that time.
Love you,Elder Boy
P.S. I got a new pen, it opens up like a light saber.
Today was really relaxed and I was able to take it easy today. Also, I saw Elder Bentz today at lunch.Just a quick update, my Companion is Elder McIntire, he is from Washington and is a really cool companion. I am really excited to get out to Virginia and start working. I might be leaving one week later then expected, but I will let you know after Monday. My P-day (preparation day) is Tuesday so I will email you at that time.
Love you,Elder Boy
P.S. I got a new pen, it opens up like a light saber.
William's Letter – 11-23-08
Dear Everyone,
I would like everyone to know that I am well and that I am really exited to serve. With all of the stuff we are learning the first day it is a little overwhelming, but I know that there will be a way to understand all of this.
Elder Boy
I would like everyone to know that I am well and that I am really exited to serve. With all of the stuff we are learning the first day it is a little overwhelming, but I know that there will be a way to understand all of this.
Elder Boy
William 1st Email - 11-22-08
Dad,
The MTC is a really cool place, although I can't really see any mountains and yesterday I saw the street light, that was the weirdest feeling so far. I have learned alot since Wednesday and I can't wait until I get out in the field.
Oh, by the way, I am not leaving on the 9th I am leaving on the 17th. My district all got moved back one week and so we are all kind of bummed, but, we all are having a good time here. The food is really great and gym time is not long enough though we make the best of it. My companion and I are really bonding, we have already learned the first lesson and are getting ready to learn the 2nd. We have had time to teach volunteer investigators and did a really good job our first time.
That is all I have right now. I will not be checking my email until next Tuesday so if you what to send me a letter then send it to dearelder.com as a letter.
So bye- Elder Boy
The MTC is a really cool place, although I can't really see any mountains and yesterday I saw the street light, that was the weirdest feeling so far. I have learned alot since Wednesday and I can't wait until I get out in the field.
Oh, by the way, I am not leaving on the 9th I am leaving on the 17th. My district all got moved back one week and so we are all kind of bummed, but, we all are having a good time here. The food is really great and gym time is not long enough though we make the best of it. My companion and I are really bonding, we have already learned the first lesson and are getting ready to learn the 2nd. We have had time to teach volunteer investigators and did a really good job our first time.
That is all I have right now. I will not be checking my email until next Tuesday so if you what to send me a letter then send it to dearelder.com as a letter.
So bye- Elder Boy
Lift where you stand - 11-19-08
William,
I am very proud of your decision to serve your Heavenly Father as a full-time Missionary. I can't believe how you have grown in just the last few weeks. Our prayers will be with you as we figure out exactly what it means to have a missionary out in the mission field. Last week in Elders Quorum we had a lesson based on the talk "Lift Where You Stand" by President Uchtdorf, the Second Counselor in the First Presidency. As soon as I heard it I thought of you. I thought that it was just the kind of story that would help you know that where you are is exactly where the Lord needs you to be right now. Your choices got you here, and what you do now that you are there will determine the experiences that you have on your mission. I know that you heard this story while you where at the General Priesthood session in October but I thought I would include it for you as a reference.
---------------------------------
"Lift Where You Stand"
by Pres Dieter F. Uchtdorf.
Some years ago in our meetinghouse in Darmstadt, Germany, a group of brethren was asked to move a grand piano from the chapel to the adjoining cultural hall, where it was needed for a musical event. None were professional movers, and the task of getting that gravity-friendly instrument through the chapel and into the cultural hall seemed nearly impossible. Everybody knew that this task required not only physical strength but also careful coordination. There were plenty of ideas, but not one could keep the piano balanced correctly. They repositioned the brethren by strength, height, and age over and over again—nothing worked.As they stood around the piano, uncertain of what to do next, a good friend of mine, Brother Hanno Luschin, spoke up. He said, "Brethren, stand close together and lift where you stand."It seemed too simple. Nevertheless, each lifted where he stood, and the piano rose from the ground and moved into the cultural hall as if on its own power. That was the answer to the challenge. They merely needed to stand close together and lift where they stood. I have often thought of Brother Luschin's simple idea and have been impressed by its profound truth.
I am very proud of your decision to serve your Heavenly Father as a full-time Missionary. I can't believe how you have grown in just the last few weeks. Our prayers will be with you as we figure out exactly what it means to have a missionary out in the mission field. Last week in Elders Quorum we had a lesson based on the talk "Lift Where You Stand" by President Uchtdorf, the Second Counselor in the First Presidency. As soon as I heard it I thought of you. I thought that it was just the kind of story that would help you know that where you are is exactly where the Lord needs you to be right now. Your choices got you here, and what you do now that you are there will determine the experiences that you have on your mission. I know that you heard this story while you where at the General Priesthood session in October but I thought I would include it for you as a reference.
---------------------------------
"Lift Where You Stand"
by Pres Dieter F. Uchtdorf.
Some years ago in our meetinghouse in Darmstadt, Germany, a group of brethren was asked to move a grand piano from the chapel to the adjoining cultural hall, where it was needed for a musical event. None were professional movers, and the task of getting that gravity-friendly instrument through the chapel and into the cultural hall seemed nearly impossible. Everybody knew that this task required not only physical strength but also careful coordination. There were plenty of ideas, but not one could keep the piano balanced correctly. They repositioned the brethren by strength, height, and age over and over again—nothing worked.As they stood around the piano, uncertain of what to do next, a good friend of mine, Brother Hanno Luschin, spoke up. He said, "Brethren, stand close together and lift where you stand."It seemed too simple. Nevertheless, each lifted where he stood, and the piano rose from the ground and moved into the cultural hall as if on its own power. That was the answer to the challenge. They merely needed to stand close together and lift where they stood. I have often thought of Brother Luschin's simple idea and have been impressed by its profound truth. Tonight I would like to expand on that simple concept, "lift where you stand."This year marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of John Rowe Moyle. John was a convert to the Church who left his home in England and traveled to the Salt Lake Valley as part of a handcart company. He built a home for his family in a small town a valley away from Salt Lake City. John was an accomplished stonecutter and, because of this skill, was asked to work on the Salt Lake Temple. Every Monday John left home at two o'clock in the morning and walked six hours in order to be at his post on time. On Friday he would leave his work at five o'clock in the evening and walk almost until midnight before arriving home. He did this year after year.One day, while he was doing his chores at home, a cow kicked him in the leg, causing a compound fracture. With limited medical resources, the only option was to amputate the broken leg. So John's family and friends strapped him onto a door and, with a bucksaw, cut off his leg a few inches from the knee.In spite of the crude surgery, the leg started to heal. Once John could sit up in bed, he began carving a wooden leg with an ingenious joint that served as an ankle to an artificial foot. Walking on this device was extremely painful, but John did not give up, building up his endurance until he could make the 22-mile (35-km) journey to the Salt Lake Temple each week, where he continued his work.His hands carved the words "Holiness to the Lord" that stand today as a golden marker to all who visit the Salt Lake Temple. John did not do this for the praise of man. Neither did he shirk his duty, even though he had every reason to do so. He knew what the Lord expected him to do.Years later, John's grandson Henry D. Moyle was called as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve and, eventually, served in the First Presidency of the Church. President Moyle's service in these callings was honorable, but his grandfather John's service, though somewhat less public, is just as pleasing to the Lord.John's character, his legacy of sacrifice, serves as a banner of faithfulness and an ensign of duty to his family and to the Church. John Rowe Moyle understood the meaning of "lift where you stand."
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I hope you will "Lift Where You Stand" William. the Lord has told you that he will lift you up and give you the power to do the things that he has asked you to do. You do not always know the the outcome, but if you will do your best to do the Lord's will, you can be sure that it will be worth it.Again, I love you and I am proud of you. I hope that you are getting the hang of life in the MTC. I am sure that they have a lot for you to do. Put your shoulder to the wheel and push along.Today is the first day of the best two years of your life.
Love,- Dad
19-Nov-2008
-- "It's never to late to live happily ever after."
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I hope you will "Lift Where You Stand" William. the Lord has told you that he will lift you up and give you the power to do the things that he has asked you to do. You do not always know the the outcome, but if you will do your best to do the Lord's will, you can be sure that it will be worth it.Again, I love you and I am proud of you. I hope that you are getting the hang of life in the MTC. I am sure that they have a lot for you to do. Put your shoulder to the wheel and push along.Today is the first day of the best two years of your life.
Love,- Dad
19-Nov-2008
-- "It's never to late to live happily ever after."
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Richmond, Virginia Mission
William will be leaving on Dec 17, 2008 to begin serving the people in the Richmond, Virginia Area. He will be in Virginia for the next 2 years, and although we will miss him we wish him the best of luck.
William and his "Little" brother Benson at the front gate of the MTC on Nov 19, 2008.
<-- William and his Mother
his Dad, Anneke, and Benson. -->
and last minute visiting before saying goodbye.
William's Web Site
Anneke (William's sister) is maintaining a website that William designed before he left on his mission. She is doing a great job keeping it up to date with the latest information that William sends to her and her mother.
http://sites.google.com/site/wboy4mission/
http://sites.google.com/site/wboy4mission/
Elder Bentz's Site
William's Aunt Susan is maintaining a blog for William's Cousin Michael, who is serving a mission in Frankfort, Germany. You can visit his site at:
http://eldermooker.blogspot.com/
http://eldermooker.blogspot.com/
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