To Bailey
Bailey,
That's incredible! The importance of family history cannot be understated. In the religious community, the point of family history is not only to find people to baptize and do other saving ordinances for those who have past, but it is to trace our lineage back to Adam and ultimately to God. Doing family history with these things in mind takes it to a whole new level! You are doing such an important work, so thank you so much even if those aren't your drive for continuing.
I've been thinking a lot about you too! There is a man here who is the missionaries best friend. When I came in here, he was the one who drove us all over the places and took us out to dinner all the time. He is such an incredible individual, so willing to pause at any time to help and so willing to impart of any substance to help us. So as I've gotten to know him and his life, it turns out he struggles with same sex attraction and gender identification. Sorry if my use of the terms gender and sex are used improperly. He says that he only truly feels comfortable as a man when he is with the missionaries. He doesn't wear white shirts and ties to church because he doesn't feel completely comfortable wearing them. I believe that he identifies as a man currently, hence the "he". It has been so interesting getting to know him and his experiences outside and inside the church with his unique perspective and experiences. I know that having you as my sister has prepared me to meet him. So thank you for all the attempts to teach Mason and I about all this stuff, even when we mocked. Don't worry, I absorbed some. I never would have thought I'd use those lessons in the mission, but it has been probably the most prominent personal experience pool I pull from.
As for the family history, I can't do the work while I'm here on a mission, but when I get back I'll hit the ground running and start doing all that temple work. Everybody needs an opportunity to receive the gospel, right? You know what you might find somewhat interesting? The fact I finished the Book of Mormon for the first time last week. Here's a twenty something youngin teaching people from a book that he just finished reading. Kind of a crazy situation. Something I've learned since being out, is that the people who read the Book of Mormon, both investigator and member, are the people who are humble, have faith, and desire to be closer to Christ. The people who read with an open heart and with intent to repent or change are the ones who receive that love and comfort. I see so many members who draw close to God with their lips, asking for this and that, without thinking what they can do for God. Or when they learn what they need to do, aka pray and read, they think they are too good or don't need it. There is real power in that book. I don't know how or why God provides power through that book, but I know He does. That's my short little sentiment on the Book of Mormon. You know that I love you regardless of what you believe or read. But it would be on me if I didn't say that which I need to say.
Bailey, is there anything I can do for you? Any questions you have regarding the church or my testimony? Is there anything I can study for you? Is there anything I can do to set your mind at ease? There is a whole world on fire and it can be very easy to be engulfed. So please don't hesitate to ask me anything. I'd love to share my thoughts on things that worry you, sadden you or on a more positive note things that gladden you haha. I think that's the first time I've used the word gladden. I promise you, that anything that you might only have the hint of concern about in your life, I care about. I love you and only want to be here for you.
Sure do love ya B
Elder Hamblin
Side note since writing this email draft.
I've learned something mind blowing about genealogy and another reason to do that work. Jesus and John the Baptist and many other prophets, had to have and were prophesied to come from a certain family lineage. Prophets now have stated that our rights to the priesthood are associated with our lineage. I don't know exactly why, but I'll keep you updated. But this is just another reason why family history work is so important! Also, there was a man we taught and the next time we went to his house, his wife had looked us up on Google. She found your blog on me and read it! Pretty crazy. Anywho, keep up the good work, love ya!
To Mom
Madre de Perla,
I would be lying if I said I wasn't pleased with that subject line haha. That's all boys my age want to do, try strange meats. There is a restaurant near here called Roadkill. There "thing" is frying anything you bring in. I don't know if I'd be willing to go that far, but sure would be fun to check it out. Kangaroo tasted pretty bad and alpaca wasn't terrible. Nothing I would suggest to buy other than to brag about eating it. My mission only has some walking/biking areas. I'm fortunately in an area with a car and one very helpful member. We only had one day of walking (roughly 10 miles). I'll keep you updated on what I need. As of right now, it would be nice to have a keyboard but I know a missionary leaving in a week that will give me his. So I'll keep you updated with that. Other than that, I think I have all the necessities. But any random little things will always be appreciated! But of course all I really want is an email once a week telling me about your life! Maybe large plates and small plates. Large with what you did. And small with how you feel and spiritual stuff. Either way, I just want to hear from you!
Sure do love ya
Elder Hamblin
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