Training in Tocumen

Christmas Party in Panama City

December 27, 2010

27 December 2010

Dear Family,

I had a lot of fun talking to everyone and was really excited that they allowed us to use skype. I was really happy that I had the chance to see Gwen and Grant. I did not think twice about seeing the Brock family there but afterwards realized that was a big deal that they were there. Did they fly out? I am feeling much better now than when we talked. I finally unpacked my first aid kit and was able to take some bismuth tablets.

My Christmas this year has felt a little more like the fourth of July with the heat, fireworks, and bbq. It has been really hard to work this last week because a lot of people are outside drinking, out of town, or lighting off fireworks. Everyone is really friendly when we walk by and I have been offered quite a few drinks. Thank you so much for the package you sent. I have been passing out some of the little toys you sent. I gave some out to all the children of the families that feed us then passed out some more to children in the ward. We are encouraged not to give out anything to children on the streets because it spawns harassment in the future. Elder Voss and I are going to make no bake cookies today with the peanut butter you sent. We were fed very well on Christmas. The people here just eat all day and were happy to have us join in. Most of the families buy ham and turkey. It was nice to eat something other than chicken. The bad thing was we were really tired from the turkey.

I was going to send some pictures of the Christmas party we had on Thursday but I forgot my camera cable. It was really fun. We had it in the church right next to the temple so we had the chance to walk around it and take pictures. Each zone put together a skit and presented them all. We put together a top ten things that happen to missionaries in this mission including packed chicken buses and dog chases. After the party the mission president gave us all temple ties with a stitched mola design. I also visited with Elder Scrimsher and Polera for the evening. They are good friends.

Elder Voss and I had a strange experience that I am not sure if I should share but will anyway. We were walking to a dinner appointment when this woman ran out of her house and practically dragged us in. She explained that her mom and dad both died in the house within several months and she was feeling evil spirits. She asked us if we could purge them. We gave her a blessing of comfort and she said she felt something being lifted off of her and felt at peace for the first time in awhile. The whole family was really impressed and they accepted a restoration pamphlet and invited us to come back. She told us she has been looking for Jesus in her life. The whole thing was really strange. She knows where another Mormon church is and did not know there was one closer that we attend. She wants to come to church next Sunday.

Water has returned! Not only has it returned but we also have ok pressure back too just in time for Christmas. We took super long showers and we are going to wash our clothes today. Earlier in the week we were joking around that all we wanted for Christmas was some water. Well Merry Christmas.

On Sunday I gave a talk on una Navidad Misional. I shared some experiences of sharing hymns and the story of the birth of Christ during this month. I was only asked to speak for ten minutes and I was not nervous because everyone is so friendly and casual. People just go up to the microphone and chat with the congregation. I guess I did an ok job because a lot of people came up after and thanked me. One of the poorer families in the ward came up to us and gave us each really cool souvenir plates of Panama. Elder Voss plate has the canal on it and mine has the ruins of Panama Viejo. These people never cease to amaze me. I felt bad because we did not have anything for her but she told me that my being here and my talk today were enough. I had to wipe my eyes after that one. I am really started to love these people so much. I don't feel like I am even really working on it. They just make it impossible not to.

I am not really sure what to write since I just talked to you. We are excited about this next week because we are going to invite a lot of our investigators to be baptized.

I wish I could have been there to hear Ben speak. He is so funny. I am glad he made it home safely and that Jeremy was able to get married.

I love you.

Elder Whiting

Mission Pictures

Jeff and his companion at the MTC with their travel plans.

MTC Christmas decorations

Jeff in Panama

Old Panama

Week 12

Dear Family,

We were so thankful to have the water come back this morning. We went two weeks without washing our clothes! Fortunately we have been able to bathe out of buckets of rain water. We have stored up a bunch of water in buckets so that if this happens again we can at least soak our clothes in soapy water. For other needs such as brushing teeth and drinking we bought big jugs of water from a Chino (chinese owned 7/11 type of store). It was really hard to go out and work all day in the sun knowing that when we get back we would not be able to bath and there was a chance we would wear the same clothes again. Still the Lord answered our prayers and returned water to us just in time for prep day when we have time to wash our clothes. We are very fortunate because we have one of the only missionary houses in all of Panama with hot water. All of the rest of the houses use cold water. The only problem has been that we do not have water. We are not quite sure what the problem is. I think there has been a lot of contamination with the record rain fall or something.

We had exchanges this week so I spent a day and a night with our zone leaders. They ride these little buses in their area. It is really uncomfortable if you do not get a seat because I cannot stand up all the way in them. I really like Elder Stoddard from California. He went to Del Oro. When he came to pick me up he shined all of my shoes and swept our house. He is really an example of service to me.

It is interesting that you mentioned skype. We were informed this morning that we are allowed to call home using skype or something like it. This is also the cheapest method for me to call home since internet is only a dollar an hour. We are also allowed to call a couple days before to figure everything out. What is the best day to call? It will be hard to find a computer with skype on it but I think gmail has a similiar feature of video calling. The computers here are equipped with headsets and webcams so that should not be a problem. I do not remember my skype account though. We are going to look around and see what we can do. At the very least I can buy some calling cards and call you from our house or somewhere.

We are expecting three baptisms for this month. We have some amazing investigators. Some people are really prepared to hear the gospel. It helps that the people here love to "hear the word" and are really humble. We get a lot of help from the members here too.

I enjoyed all of the letters I received today. Emery and Campbell drew some really cute pictures. The support I receive from home really helps.

I am going to get some molas for the men in the family. I have ordered some white ties from distribution center. The kuna indians then stitch really cool designs on them. They look very similiar to aztec designs. I do not have access to a post office at the moment so it may be awhile before they arrive. Speaking of the kuna indians, I have been learning a lot of words in kuna. Most of the indians speak spanish in addition to kuna but some do not. We taught a lesson to a family that was completely translated into kuna from our spanish. I really like their clothing too.

In church on Sunday we sang we wish you a merry christmas as a special number in English. My fellow choir members sounded more like we weesh you a merreeey chreeestmas. I was trying not to laugh. I wonder if that is what my spanish sounds like to them. I hope not. I am giving a talk next week. I will be speaking on an article in the Liahona. I will be practicing that a lot.

I am really trying to work on the language. I can speak just fine and people can understand me most of the time but when they answer back it goes way over my head. Here in Panama they leave off the last part of words sometimes. I guess this will just take time to adjust my ears to their frequency.

I am really starting to love the food here. At first it was "bastante" (too much) but when we work hard I gain an appetite to match it. I really love the bananas and all of the different ways they prepare them. I have had all sorts of preparations. They also made some really good salads. What I mean is several pieces of lettuce with pepper but I like it.

I have sent some picdtures from old Panama, travel plans, and the mtc at Christmas. Sorry if they are too big. I cannot shrink them.

I love you,

Elder Whiting

Greetings from Panama

Dear Family,

We have had a fun morning for our P day. We walked around old Panama city and looked around some ruins. I will have to send you some pictures. There are a lot of historical sites in downtown panama city. We visited some art galleries, and I talked with some German tourists that spoke English. It is amazing to see so much history on one street and then walk down two blocks and see modern skyscrapers.

We have been receiving a ton of rain. Ironically, we have been without running water in the house for the last three days. We finally got it back last night so we were able to shower again. I have been doing everything else out of a water bottle I have, such as brushing teeth. It was not really a big deal looking back on it, but it was a little uncomfortable to go to bed sticky and I am sure I smelled really bad.

We have been having a lot of success here. The people we contact during the day are very friendly rarely reject us completely. We are teaching la familia martinez among others right now. We are worried about her because she found a hard lump in one of her breasts. We are hoping it is not cancerous. They have a really cute baby and are progressing nicely. The biggest problem in Panama and probably in Central America in general, is getting people married. The process is complicated and it is relatively expensive for humble families. Right now we are teaching about five families and find more every day. Unfortunately, none of our investigators came to church because of the water problems. No one could bathe.

Church was really interesting. We sang in the choir because my companion said they need people that can sing on tune! We will permanently be in it every Sunday now. Mom, I have been dreading the day I would have to say this, but it appears my talents with the piano will soon be called upon. We have a keyboard in our house, so I have been practicing to play. Not many people here know how to play the piano. In Elders Quorum we talked about staying away from some of the false practices we have in the church. He told a story about a ward somewhere that would only ordain boys facing the temple. President Monson visited and turned the chair the other way to make a point. I really like the bishop in our ward. He has been giving me a lot of encouragement. He told me a story about a general authority that was given difficult Hawaiian names in the temple to pronounce. He said he tried his best and everything was fine because the Lord knew he was trying too.

There are two schools in our area. All of the children wear uniforms. Sometimes when we are teaching, we will have the children read if the parents cannot. The schools are simply concrete shells with no doors or windows. The schools teach the children a little English as well. They like to practice a few simple phrases on us as we are walking by like how are you and what is your name.

There are about 200 missionaries in Panama.

Christmas is huge down here. There are nativities everywhere and many families decorate their houses with lights. I have seen many creative Christmas trees made out of Sprite bottles or one made out of green plastic wrap. I saw one of the biggest nativities I have ever seen in Panama City.

Internet is a dollar an hour here, so it is a pretty good deal. Most of the people in here are either playing World of Warcraft or are on facebook. Interestingly, there are signs posted everywhere that warn people not to look at pornography. I can imagine how bad that could be.

Thank you for your letters. Morgan sent some cute pictures printed onto a page. Mom and Dad, I have plenty of time to read your emails. If the dear elder pouch service is costing anything just know I can access your letters either way. We have to wait until P day to get your mail anyway.

I love you,

Elder Whiting

Headed to Panama

Week 10

Dear family,

Monday will be my regular P day as you predicted. The Wednesday email was a one time occurence because of changes. I have time to read your emails and I am also getting your pouch mail. I did not know the dear elder service extended past the MTC. Do they charge now?

We are having a lot of success in Tocumen. We have gotten into every single door we have knocked. The people are really friendly. It is hard to teach by the spirit because there is either a dog barking, rain tapping on their tin roof, a bus going by, etc. Still we are optimistic that we will get at least three baptisms this month. I have been informed by the President that this is a baptising area. The investigators here amaze me for good and bad reasons. Some turn off the tv, gather their family, and take notes during our visits. Others leave the tv blaring and the men leave. Many people here cannot read and understand very little, even simple questions.

Many of the frustrations of my summer job are coming back to torment me here in Panama such as the language barrier and hot weather. This is much more than a summer job though. I am told that things get better at about the end of your third change. Each change is 6 weeks.

All of the gringos were able to watch the Christmas devotional in English last night. They stuck us in a small room and set it up. The messages seemed to especially apply to me this year.

Surprisingly, I have not gotten sick yet. Everything seems to be going normally.

I have run out of time. I love you.

Elder Whiting

I cannot access Myldsmail at the moment. Anyways, like I said I am not sick at the moment. I also did not run out of time. They just did not reset the timer.

The members that feed us give us a ton of food. It is crazy. I do not eat much as you know so it is really a struggle to finish.

Here are some photos. They are taking forever, so I will probably only have time to upload a couple. Ok maybe just one. This is an archaic computer.

Love,

Elder Whiting

Stake Conference in Tocumen

Elder Voss, his first companion & trainer, is to his left, behind him.

Elder Whiting Arrives in Panama

Elder Whiting with President & Sister Ward

 Group of new missionaries

Hola - Week 9

Dear family,

This computer is telling me that I am spelling everything wrong. I guess it is set to Spanish. I have arrived in Panama just fine and have met my new trainer. His name is Elder Voss. He is from Reno, Nevada. I am in Tocumen I think. We are only approximately 15 minutes from the capital. President Ward and his wife are great people. I really enjoyed my time with them. You will not see a picture of us by the temple. Since we arrived on a Tuesday instead of a Monday, we did not have time. We did take a picture by one of the churches though. I did not interview with him either. He said we would learn along the way. 

We have two investigators. We are trying to get one pair of investigators married right now. Apparently it is expensive and complicated. We had dinner with the bishop last night. Chicken and rice of course. His wife made a really good juice by combining orange and apple juice. The bishop asked me about the gold mines in California, and I started talking about the Book of Mormon thinking he meant the gold plates. I have not felt well since that dinner. I am anticipating some problems.

I wish I had brought my camera. I took some pictures of the house I am staying in. I got lucky for my first apartment they say because it is relatively nice. I took a cold shower last night, but that was just fine because it is super hot here.

It rains constantly here. The first thing I unpacked was my poncho. We have been riding those crazy chicken buses everywhere because they taxis are more expensive. They cost 25 cents.

We get $245 a month on our cards. However we are only allowed to withdraw $100. The rest we can only spend if they accept the card. This is really rare as most places only deal with cash and coin. The biggest store in our area is a chino which is a chinese owned little garage. Inside, I saw pig heads and other meat on hooks. They sell glass bottled beverages and other snacks. They do not accept cards so I doubt we can find anywhere that does. You have to go into the city to find stores that can afford card swipe equipment.

Our area is very poor. Most people are living in cinder block houses or worse. There are dogs and cats everywhere that do not look like they have owners. It is a little scary to walk around after dark. Robberies are rare, but the reported ones are usually at gun point. My companion knows the area very well though and he zigzags us around so we stay in safer areas.

We had my first zone conference today in the church. They talked about using the Book of Mormon in our teaching.

I enjoyed the chance I had to talk with you in the airport. I love you.

Elder Whiting

Week 8

Dear Family,

 

We heard from Elder Malm for our Tuesday night devotional as Mom predicted. He has a heavy Swedish accent and is a very good speaker. Elder Malm told one of my favorite stories about the fallen bridge. A ship ran into a bridge on a foggy night and caused it to collapse. Because of the weather conditions, many could not see that the bridge was out and drove straight over the edge. One trucker noticed and was able to pull over. He was eventually able to alert everyone of the danger ahead. He compared this story to missionary work. We can see a little farther ahead and can warn people of the danger. Our message is desperately needed.

 

My toe has been doing much better. I had the ingrown part surgically removed and medicine put in to kill the section of nail that was taken out. I have been soaking my the toe for 30 minutes twice a day in Epson salts. Then I dab it with hydrogen peroxide and finish with Neosporin and a bandage. It does not bother me any longer. After today I was instructed to switch to only once a day for two more weeks. I have a follow up appointment set for the 29th (the day before I leave).

 

Thank you for the socks. Unfortunately, there was an advertisement in the box for some delicious steaks. I had to throw that away. I do not need any more money. Thanks though.

 

We received our travel plans last Thursday. We are flying on Delta airlines. We fly out of Salt Lake at 9:45 AM and arrive at Atlanta, GA at 3:25. Then at 5:25 PM we proceed to Panama City and are predicted to get there at 9:30 PM. Talk about flying all day. Interestingly, we are fly back to Atlanta exactly a month later to (I am guessing) sign our visas. Our branch presidency said I could call home at the airport, so I will think about it haha. My companion is our travel leader which means he makes sure we do not wander off at the airport and calls the MTC if anything goes wrong. We are going to start packing pretty soon and weigh our bags. I will be sure to make only one bag overweight if there is a problem. It has been difficult for us to focus now that we have our plans.

 

We have been experiencing some interesting weather. It has been snowing a lot here. There is a big blizzard predicted to hit from Alaska. It has gotten REALLY cold as well. We are having fun though because this is the last time we will see snow for a while or feel cold for that matter. When we were walking back from our temple walk on Sunday we were assaulted by a hail storm. I have never experienced hail like this. It actually hurt a lot. Again, we laugh at this now. We have some funny pictures of us running back to the MTC. We would cover our faces with our hands, and then the hail would just sting our hands.

 

Elder Biesinger got a Christmas package yesterday. His parents included a stocking for me which was really nice. I am going to write a letter thanking them today. We have shared pictures of our families with each other. They look like nice people. I hope you didn't send anything too nice to Panama. Speaking of mail...does my mission have a pouch address? I would like any addresses you have since I have not received any.

 

Morgan and Johnny, Congratulations on the new addition to your family. While I am disappointed he was not name Jeffrey II, I'm sure Grant will serve him just fine. I am relieved everything went well. I enjoyed the story about Johnny's middle name. I am reminded of going to the hospital when Emery and Campbell were born and just marveling at them. Newborns are fun to hold. I was also pleased to hear about Chris and Jenna's baby.

 

I am nearing the end of my experience at the MTC. It is strange to be taking exit surveys and going to Health and Safety meetings. This time has gone by extraordinarily fast. I have had many spiritual experiences in the MTC and have created many good memories. I enjoy the elders in my district and have made good friends here.

 

I love you,

 

Elder Whiting

Week 7

Dear Family,

 

I am e-mailing a little earlier today because I will be going to the podiatrist later to get an ingrown toenail inspected. I am actually really surprised I am going at all. I was just asking if there was anything I could do on my own to treat it and the next thing I know we are setting up an appointment to look at possible infection or something like that. It has been ingrown for several days but it only recently started hurting to walk on. At least this will be an adventure to leave the MTC and go out into Babylon. It was weird sitting on the other side of the desk while she was on the phone with mom. I wonder if you heard my voice. There are all of these really gross pictures on the wall of injuries that have happened at the MTC. I also noticed several pictures of untreated ingrown toenails and was promptly scared out of my wits.

 

I have enjoy hearing about Emery and Campbell's primary program. I think all of you mentioned it in your letters. They are good girls. From what I have seen of other primary programs, distracted children are not uncommon. I have also seem some wavers. I will have to look into one of those dehumidifiers Allie was talking about. Although, it would probably break from overexertion in Panama and they are too costly for a servant of the Lord.

 

Elder Pearson of the First Quorum of the Seventy addressed us last night for our Tuesday devotional. He had some very inspiring words for us. I gathered that we obtain what we consistently strive for. Again, the importance of understanding our identity as spirit sons and daughters of God was stressed. He addressed the concerns held by many in the audience of losing their identity. He said that being obedient does not turn us into clones citing the distinct personalities in the Quorum of Twelve. We leave behind what we were in order to become what we have been called to be or who we really are. He went on to say that the church will have need for return missionaries to lead the church. Return missionaries are more likely to be married in the temple. A really high percentage of bishops and stake presidents are return missionaries. Our children are also more likely to serve missions. With similiar statements Elder Pearson emphasized the importance of our missions on our lives to come. He gave a powerful testimony at the end and we sang "I Know that My Redeemer Lives".

 

I have been talking quite a bit with Elder Josh Kenney who is the nephew of Br. Fred Kenney. He has been in our zone for quite some time, but I did not make the connection until I saw him wearing a SunSplash sweatshirt. It is fun to talk to him about SunSplash and learn more about the Kenney family. He told me that Br. Fred Kenney bought a radio station recently. He has always been fascinated with radio waves, and we even made an antenna for mutual one night. I have also been able to reflect on the positive influence Br. Kenney has had on my life and his influence in my decision to serve a mission. I enjoyed being their home teacher and I will always be grateful for his generosity and service given to me. He has been my leader off and on for many years.

 

Thank you for purchasing the socks. A few extra will make a huge difference.

 

The end of my stay here at the MTC is quickly approaching. I have grown to enjoy the MTC quite a bit and have formed some very good memories. I can see how the powerful lessons I learn here will be useful even after the mission. I do not like to think about saying adios to my teachers. They have been with us from the beginning, and we are very close with them now. This may also be the last time I see many of these missionaries. Hopefully I can at least see the ones that are going to Panama every once in awhile. I am eager however to get out into the field. While role-playing is effective practice, I really want to teach real investigators for once.

 

I love you all and appreciate your support. Not everyone out here is as blessed in that department as I am.

 

Love,

 

Elder Whiting

Week 6

Incredibly, we heard from yet another apostle. That makes four in a row. Last night Elder Bednar came and spoke to us about the distinctions between doctrines, principles, and applications. He said that so often in the church we try to solve questions with applications when we should actually be using doctrines. On Sunday, Sheri Dew came to speak to us. She talked about knowing your identity, learning how to receive personal revelation, and truly understanding what the Savior did for us by performing the Atonement. Sister Dew told some very good stories and cited a scripture in the New Testament ( I think it was in Matthew) about the Savior coming to heal the broken hearted and bruised. Many of us can find comfort in this scripture.

 

My companion and I are now zone leaders. Tonight we will be welcoming a new district. Tomorrow, we will show them around the MTC and teach them a lesson on planning and companionships. This is an exciting assignment because I am getting to know the elders and sisters in our zone a lot better. I am also under a lot more pressure to be an example for everyone. The corrective action responsibility is probably my least favorite. I hate being the bad guy. Fortunately, most of the time I am able to alert the district leader first of any problems, and they usually take care of it.

 

Congratulations to Corey and Darren on their mission calls. Brazil is always highly spoken of here and will be a great mission.

 

What terrible news about Jared. I have been studying every letter about his progress. Please keep me informed. I was always very careful when I was coming home that way because I know Jared is always playing out there. He is included in my prayers.

 

Thank you for your package mom. At first I thought the mail room had mixed my package up with some Japanese elder's when I saw all the seaweed and Norri crackers. What a special treat! I do not understand how this new SD card is different. I assume the "H" stands for high definition or something? Does it take higher quality photos?

 

The weather is turning colder here. There has been rain and on and off snow flurries for awhile. The MTC is covered in Christmas lights now and looks really pretty when it gets dark. They are really everywhere: in the bushes, trees, covered walkways.

 

Everyone that I know here seems to be leaving. It will be just me and Elder Lindelof pretty soon. Elder Wood came to my classroom and said goodbye a couple days ago. Elder Maughan told me he is leaving Monday, and Elder Sewell has already left. The time seems to really be flying in here. Before I know it, I'll be boarding a plane for Panama. We get our travel plans a week from Thursday. It will be tough to concentrate after that.

 

I love you and enjoy your correspondences.

 

Love,

 

Elder Whiting

Week 5

Dear Family,

 

Incredibly, we heard from another apostle for our devotional last night. That makes three in a row. M. Russel Ballard came and spoke to us about becoming master teachers and communicators. He emphasized the importance of teaching with clarity and simplicity while asking questions about what you have just taught to check for understanding. He told lots of good stories and has a great sense of humour. Every time an apostle walks into the room, we all feel such a great feeling as the Spirit enters the room. We are fortunate to hear from apostles so often. It is drastically different when they come to speak directly to you, and you can look over at the pulpit and see them standing there.

 

I am glad you are enjoying the pictures I sent home. I have been trying to take a lot. You could probably tell I have little experience with taking photos. However, most of them weren't even taken by me (as I am in most of them). We grab any unfortunate passerby and recruit them as a photographer.

 

Thanks for the cookies mom. Peanut butter blossoms are my favorite.

 

Halloween was uneventful here. Although we had lots of candy ready for any trick-or-treaters, we didn't have any takers.

 

We have been undergoing an English fast for this last week. We are only allowed to speak English when a teacher is present and during interviews. This has been really difficult, but its surprising how much we know. It also forces us to learn phrases we use a lot and put in practice the grammar principles we've been learning.

 

Before Elder Sewell left the MTC, we all had a chance to get together, take pictures, and say good-bye. I had forgotten how many of us from Granite Bay 1st Ward are here. We stood in front of a huge map for one of the pictures and pointed at our missions. We are spread out all over the world.

 

Temple walks have been reinstated. I am happy to have the opportunity to walk around the temple on Sundays again. We will be going to the temple last today as well to do a session.

 

I cannot believe how fast time has flown here. We all think it feels like we just got here. It is amazing to look back at where we started, in regards to both testimony and Spanish, to see how far we have come. We have stronger testimonies; we are better teachers; we have a better grasp on the language; we are better Christians.

 

Love,

 

Elder Whiting

Study at MTC

Elders Biesinger, Whiting, Polera and Scrimsher. All will be in Panama by Thanksgiving. The area above the Panamian flag has statistics about the country. They are roommates in the MTC.

With Elder Biesinger outside the temple on Sunday. A short break in the schedule to walk around and take some photos.

Hermano Vigil, one of the Spanish language instructors. Jeff says they are great.

A tie [polyester as required] and a Good Luck Pig from Courtney. Nice tie, the pig is little more difficult to see in this view.

Elder it's your turn for the next discussion point.

Pictures from MTC

Elder Whiting

Contemplative picture on Provo Temple grounds or MTC, I included it because I liked the feel it projects.

Practicing with Elder Biesinger, his first companion.

Missionary prank? or testing 'the elder's are protected from poison' scriptures? If this had been in his mother's bed, Lori would have passed out cold.

Elder Polera's mother provided some clarification, Elder Polera took this spider with him to the MTC, then ... 
"I put the spider under Elder Whiting's sheet near his pillow after we turned off the lights and went to bed. All of a sudden he screamed and dashed to turn the light on. He said he felt some slimy, hairy thing under his pillow and then he found the spider. I was laughing so hard.  It scared him but he wasn’t mad at me.
Our district is great and we get along fine. Me, Elder Scrimsher, Elder Whiting, and Elder Beisinger hang out all the time. We pretty much stay together alot."

Week 4

Dear Family,

 

We have had a very special week. Last night we were blessed to hear from Richard G. Scott for our evening devotional. He talked for the most part about being led by the Spirit. Elder Scott invoked an apostolic blessing on us that we would have the gift of tongues, confidence in the guidance of the Spirit, and retain the lessons learned on our missions. He bore powerful testimony that the Savior Jesus Christ lives. He said I know He lives because I know Him. He emphasized that gratitude is an essential part of being led by the Spirit. We show gratitude by acting on spiritual promptings and recording them. A proud person will never be led by the Spirit. I will be sending a copy of his points home in the envelope I send my SD card in. The night before the devotional, our teacher showed us a devotional by Elder Bednar about being led by the Spirit and then in a letter I received from you (Dad) shared with me your impressions on the subject. The importance seems to be stressed by repetition.

 

After the devotional, we went back to our classroom and had an hour discussion about it. We went over his points and had a really good testimony meeting afterwards. I have a really good district that teaches me a lot.

 

It snowed for the first time last night. It was really coming down hard. We had fun running around in it while walking back to our apartments after planning for the next day. It has gotten absolutely freezing here. Fortunately, we are required to wear our suits every day now. (I think I would anyway). I do not want any sweaters or anything though. The buildings are all very warm, and I would end up stripping it off anyway. The MTC is really beautiful when it is covered in snow. We have taken many pictures.

 

My companion Elder Biesinger is no longer the district leader. He was released this last Sunday. Elder Schrimsher is now our district leader. I enjoy have my companion around more now that he doesn't have to go to so many meetings. Elder Schrimsher will be a good leader. It has been fun to see him grow into the position. He is already leading by his righteous example.

 

Elder Scrimsher and I have been pretty sick these last couple days. Our throats are feeling better today, but we are still pretty congested. This turn in the weather has not been helping either. Up until now we have been blessed with very good health.

 

I appreciate all of the letters and packages I have been receiving. I am sorry if I am unable to respond to many of them. I am getting them and am thankful for them. The Mullens were very thoughtful of me while they were visiting for parents' week. They are great friends, and I am blessed to know them.

 

It is fun when Elder Biesinger and I do not realize we are talking in Spanish. The language is really coming fast. We have been studying hard and are realizing the gift of tongues.

 

I am finding more joy in the work each day. As we delve deeper into the gospel, my desire to share it grows.

 

I love you,

 

Elder (Jeff) Whiting

Week 3

Dear Family,

 

What a great week I have had. Last night Elder Russell M. Nelson and his wife came to speak to us for our Tuesday devotional. He had much to say about missionary work. My favorite thing he said was having character is better than being one. First impressions are everything. He encouraged us to remove everything that draws attention away from our message and the Savior towards us. Elder Nelson reassured everyone that we are safer on our missions than our peers back home. Furthermore, we will receive rich dividends from our investment now in our missions. His wife, Wendy Nelson, said the battles we will face on our missions will be all too real. As a result we must thrust in our sickle and our sword. We left the devotional very uplifted and excited about the work.

 

Today I will have another opportunity to attend the temple. Weekly temple attendance has been a great blessing in my life since arriving at the MTC. Today we also have service. Our assignment was changed from vacuuming various hallways and classrooms to washing windows and helping out with preparations for the incoming missionaries like setting up tables, chairs, and stations. Because our service assignment is also on our preparation day, we get an extra hour of personal time on Friday morning to do things like write letters and iron our clothes.

 

Last Sunday I gave a talk on the Holy Ghost in Spanish. The President calls on random elders and sisters to give talks several minutes before we actually speak. So I was chosen and after racing through my mind for everything I could say, I gave what others called a very good talk. Several elders from the older classes came up to me afterwards and asked me if I had been here for several weeks more than them.

 

Typically on Sundays the elders are allowed to walk around the temple for an hour or so to take pictures and relax. This was cancelled last Sunday and indefinitely because many elders were meeting with friends and family during this time. They were also leaving lots of trash behind from picnics and such activities. It is always unfortunate when a few ruin it for the whole. On the plus side, we were still able to take pictures and relax here at the MTC. I have taken a lot of pictures and will send my SD card home soon.

 

Both of my teachers, Hermano Vigil and Hermano Castillo, have encouraged me to move up to the harder language classes here at the MTC. The decision has been weighing heavily on my mind for several days now. If I moved up this would mean a new companion, teachers, district, dormitory, and schedule. Since I have grown very close with my companion, district, and teachers the switch would be very hard. It would be nice to be challenged a bit more than I currently am though. I would also be able to practice my Spanish a lot more with the elders in the more advanced classes. I just do not know what to do though.

 

Thank you for all of the letters, dear elders, and packages. I really like Mom's package with all of the scriptures attached to the different items in the package. My companion and I have been tackling a couple a night and then devouring the contents if its food. I got one of the funniest letters from Elder (Ben) Whiting. He sealed it with this royal wax seal of a "W". I was cracking up. He is so funny, and I cannot wait to see him when I get back. I feel very fortunate to have such support while I am out here serving. We aren't allowed to open mail and packages until after we are done planning at 9:30, so we have fun writing in our journals and opening our mail together when we get back to our rooms.

 

I love you all.

 

With love and appreciation,

 

Elder Whiting

Week 2

Dear Family,

 

I am still alive and doing well. I appreciate all of the dear elders and packages I have been receiving. It seems like they always come on the days I need one.

 

Richard C. Edgely, the first counselor of the presiding bishopric came to speak to us last night at our fireside. He shared some very useful comments on how to be a better missionary. His wife shared her testimony before him and encouraged us to put our faith in Christ. After the fireside we had a very spiritual testimony meeting with just our district. We all just sat stunned in our seats afterwards.

 

There have been many instances that I have felt the Spirit since entering the MTC. I really enjoy teaching the first lesson out of Preach My Gospel with Elder Biesinger because as we go through the lesson and invite "the investigator" to accept commitments, we always come away from the experience with stronger testimonies of what we are teaching.

 

Spanish is coming so fast. I cannot believe how far all of us have come with the language. The gift of tongues is a curious power that I am only just beginning to understand. I experienced this yesterday when we were supposed to teach the first lesson to two of the other elders in our district. After contacting them in Spanish, we began teaching them the first lesson in Spanish without even noticing it. They had to stop us and remind us we were teaching in English for this particular exercise. We are working hard and practicing whenever we have any free time.

 

Elder Biesinger and I are still getting along really well. I am lucky to have him as a companion. I have noticed his laugh is very close to Johnny's, so when he laughs (which is often) I really miss Johnny. I notice that when we are teaching together it is so natural. There aren't long pauses or awkward "its your turn" moments. The lessons flow with ease. I enjoy rooming with Elder Polera and Elder Scrimsher. They are so funny, and we all laugh a lot.

 

Sunday has become our favorite day here at the MTC. First we go to Priesthood meeting in one of the classrooms. If there is a district leaving that week, they sing a song they have been working on for awhile. This last Sunday the elders sang til we meet again. Sacrament meeting is a little stressful because our zone president will call on two random missionaries to come up and talk on a subject. Needless to say, I avoided eye contact with President Krougar for the beginning of that meeting. We do not have Sunday school. We then get to walk around the temple grounds, relax and take pictures. We took some really good ones of our district and of the temple.

 

I am not sure how to send pictures home yet. These computers are blocked from sending attachments or even copying pictures into the body of the e-mail. I cannot burn the pictures onto a CD and send that home. Some elders suggested mailing the SD card home, but I would risk losing them since I don't have a back-up. The bookstore will develop photos which I can then mail home, but I'm not sure if this is the best route. I am taking pictures though so eventually some will make it home, maybe not until I'm in the field though.

 

I enjoy seeing Wilson around the MTC. He seems to be getting a grasp for Hungary very quickly and will greet me and respond in (what I think is) convincing Hungarian.

 

The climbing wall Jordan built sounds very fun. I enjoyed using the one at Cavitt Junior High very much. This one sounds quite bigger though. I would love to try it. Please give Jordan my regards. I was reminded of him yesterday as I was talking with an elder that reminded me of him. Their senses of humor are very similiar.

 

I love you all.

 

Love,

 

Elder Whiting

Mission Week 1

Dear Family,

 

Like college, the mtc was hard at first but is becoming something I am really enjoying. It is true what they say. The days are long, but this week went by so fast.

 

Today is P-day and the first opportunity I've had to e-mail. I have 30 minutes, so I'm flying through this. We have the opportunity today to write letters, do laundry, and go to the temple.

 

My companion's name is Elder Biesinger. He's a really fun person, and we get along very well. He's from Riverton, Utah and took some classes at BYU over the summer. He was made the district leader several days ago.

 

There were eight elders in my district and a ninth (Elder Monterosa) was added a couple days ago. Elder Biesinger and I share a room with Elder Polera and Elder Scrimsher, both going to Panama as well. Five elders in my district are going to Panama, Elder Wasden and Elder Ames to Honduras, and Elder Lake and Mills to Mesa, Arizona. Our district is already very close. We go everywhere together and try to eat every meal together.

 

I have two teachers here at the MTC, Hermana Norris and Hermano Vigil. They are very effective, and I enjoy their classes very much. They both served missions in Peru. They know Spanish very well. I am learning a lot of "Church Vocab" right now that I struggled with in my phone interview before. We practice speaking Spanish with each other all the time. It really helps. It amazes me to see Spanish being "called to [my] remembrance" as I teach lessons, pray, and bear my testimony in Spanish.

 

General Conference was very special here in the MTC. I enjoyed President Uchtdorf's talk on returning to the essentials during those times of turbulence in our lives. Quite an emotional moment for me when Elder Holland spoke for a moment about the sacrifices of our parents in allowing us to serve missions. We were all crying as we were thinking about this. I am thankful for how well equipped I am for my mission thanks to your financing and help packing. My shoes are so comfortable, and I have everything I need.

 

At night, I am able to look at my picture book and think about home for a few moments before companionship prayer and bed. Sometimes I miss home so much that I can hardly contain it. Our teachers taught us to focus on our purpose during these times, to remember that we are here to invite others to come unto Christ by receiving the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentence, baptism, receiving the Holy Ghost, and enduring to the end. Hermano Vigil made the great point that the last part, enduring to the end, qualifies all of us and not just our investigators.

 

I enjoy seeing Elder Wood, Sewell, and Maughn quite a bit around the MTC. They look like they are doing great and are always cheerful.

 

I am thankful for your letters and enjoy reading them. Thank you for sending Joseph's letter. As the district leader, my companion gets the mail with me every day so I notice the mail a little more. The DearElder service seems to be quite remarkable. I see a lot of Elders walking around with those distictive long sheets.

 

The only thing I can think of to ask you for is Joseph and Colin's mailing addresses. They should be in my room or on the game table. If you cannot find them, you can use my cell phone to call them. I seem to have forgotten/misplaced them.

 

I am taking lots of pictures, so you can expect some soon. I love you and enjoy hearing from you. In a devotional on Tuesday, the emeritus general authority compared the mission to a fast from food and drink. I like to think about that.

 

Love,

 

Elder Whiting

Entering the MTC

Set Apart September 26, 2010

Stake President David C. Olsen set Jeff apart as a missionary in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Jeff was set apart after a detailed discussion of Section 100 in the Doctrine & Covenants. Since the missionary 'papers' originated while he was at BYU, President Olsen had not been involved at that stage. However he interviewed Jeff for his temple recommend earlier in the month and then spent an hour teaching and interviewing Jeff at 11:00 o'clock earlier in the day.
A great man with warm and wonderful counsel.