tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34267129757296719142024-03-05T06:58:06.730-08:00Two Years Away in San Jose! (Costa Rica)Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-88040890363417746582015-12-23T08:15:00.005-08:002015-12-23T08:16:02.038-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 12.21.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family,</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I am officially one week away from coming home. Little by
little, I can feeling it all coming to a close. It went by crazy fast though.
Lately i have been thinking about my mission looking back and seeing how I have
changed. I can see that i have changed just a little bit here and there but
overall I feel pretty the same. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I had a pretty cool experience a couple of minutes ago
actually. We were eating lunch at a local Carl's Jr. in San Jose. A man walked
in a began to hand some papers to the people. He came to me and I read what it
said. Basically it was him selling lollipops to take care of his family.
Usually missionaries and members here have the attitude of I'm not going to give
because you are probably just going to buy alcohol. But as I saw him I just
felt a great sense of love for him as my brother. I gave him a card with the
"A Savior is Born" incentive and gave him a few dollars without
purchasing the lollipop. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I felt as he walked away, the thought of "why did you
just give him the money?" And the only thing I could think of was that I loved him. I felt that it was just a brief brush with charity. But it was
meaningful for me. I feel that I have a sincere love for the ticos and I want them to truly come unto Christ and receive these blessings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know that Heavenly Father has a wonderful plan. He is very
conscience of our needs. He knows our names. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I recently have found that the thirteenth article of faith
is a promised blessing for believing the Articles of Faith 1-12. As we do and
believe those things, we will become honest, true, chaste, benevolent,
virtuous, and will want to do good to all men. We will begin to look for that
which is "virtuous, lovely, of good report and those things that are
praiseworthy". We will have faith and believe all things, hope for all
things things, and be able to endure all things. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know that the scriptures are to be lived, not just read. I
know that the promises that the Lord makes us are real. May we all receive the
gift of becoming this christmas. Have a very merry one!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-28472247445533332252015-12-14T16:49:00.000-08:002015-12-14T16:51:17.883-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 12.14.15<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Glad to hear that Grandma is doing better. I hope that they
can make it up. It just wouldn't be the same without them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well bueno. Hermana Flor will not be getting baptized on the
19th. But she is converted and has made goals for January. She is just
struggling a little with coffee and cigarettes. But she is a fighter and I know
that she'll be ok in January. But it is possible that we might still have 2
baptisms this month. Yorlene and Carlos were waiting for a wedding in January
but we found a lawyer that said he could marry them free when they want. So
they want to get married this week or next week, as well as get baptized. So we
are holding out for that. We could use some prayers that all will go well. I
sure hope so. It would be 2 baptisms the saturday before I head home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Haha I don't have too much to report on nowadays. We are just
working hard and trying to stay focused. My companion loves reminding me how
many days left I have. Some times it bothers me but I feel like I have learned
a lot of patience with stupidity. I have lived with 12 latino jokesters so I am
pretty used to it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyways hope you all have a good week!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">-Elder Neider</span>JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-28493518354408218412015-12-08T16:58:00.002-08:002015-12-08T16:58:35.453-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 12.7.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well I got some good news and I got bad news. The Good news
is that the couple that was going to be sealed, are still going to be sealed.
The bad news is that it will be sometime in January. The husband has been a
member all his life. But the branch secretary didnt register that he was
ordained an Elder. Therefore they did not meet the qualifications for sealing
on Saturday. But all is well. They will be getting sealed sure enough. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today we had a cool zone activity. We went to an old folks
home and cleaned a little. I felt very accomplished because I took time to sit
down and get to know some of the residents. Their stories are pretty cool. I
think I learned more Costa Rican history today than all of my mission put
together haha. At the end of the cleaning, we found a little guitar in the
back. One elder fixed it up a little bit. When he was finished, I started
strumming what I could and it worked out pretty well. The head of the center
heard me playing and singing and decided that it would be cool for us to go
sing for the center. So the Zone Leaders said, we need you to play The First
Noel, Angels We Have Heard on High, and Silent Night on the guitar. I said ok
and I actually was able to play the guitar for a performance for two of the
three songs and it gave the zone pitch to sound good. Silent Night was a fiasco
haha <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But it is going great. We have one baptism planned for the
19th and a lot of activities until the 30th. We are just moving forward. But
its coming to a close pretty quick. It's already the 7th! Crazy how quick it
goes by. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-15038228349657768092015-11-30T20:42:00.000-08:002015-11-30T20:43:23.418-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 11.30.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well this week was a little stressful. A bunch of members
came up to me and asked what my thoughts were about World War 3, to which I replied, ''I sure hope that it doesn't ever happen. I don't know why?''
Apparently they have forgotten that I am not in the circle of news. This was
completely new to me. If someone could inform me about this, that would be
great. Because a couple of the members were also asking me, ''What does 'The
Draft' mean?'' Let's just say that made me a bit nervous. So a little update on
that might put my mind at ease on that subject. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It's great to hear that everything is going well with
Grandma. I hope that things continue to get better. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Last night we were informed that Elder Godoy has transfers
which mean that I will be meeting my last companion on Wednesday. This is Elder
Godoys first time getting transferred in the mission so he is a little anxious.
He has served here in Turrialba for 10 months. That's a long time. But he will
be a great companion. I am gonna miss him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This Saturday I will be going to the temple to seal another
family from Sarapiqui. There's a big group will be coming as well from the
branch. I feel deeply blessed that I have been able to see all of my past areas
before I leave. I have seen them in Stake Conferences and in the temple. I get
to say a few goodbyes at the very least. I am also glad that on the 21st we
will have our Christmas Dinner so I will be able to see the rest of my
missionary buds. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our Ward Mission Leader also taught us a new way to work
with the members that was incredibly effective. We brought a couple of people
to church and they were fellowshipped flawlessly. We are very excited because
there is one sister here that is preparing to be baptized on the 19th. Please
keep her in your prayers that she can have the way prepared and blessed. Her
name is Flor. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I loved the videos of Oliver laughing. You look good Megan.
I love seeing how happy you are with that kid. He looks like a lot of
fun. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways I love you all and I hope that Thanksgiving was
good. I had a blast. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>I asked Elder Neider some questions and these are his answers</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes I got the package. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anything special? Not really. I have lived long enough with
just my own clothes and scriptures that I can't remember anything that I used to
do before my mission that was worth the time. Maybe a soccer ball. I am going
to be pretty easy this year haha. Surprise me :)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have been trying some acne stuff here but still nothing
has really been helping. I think we are just fighting with a law of nature at
this point. I am doomed.... doomed..... doomed! But it is worth a shot maybe.
Nothing too expensive though.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Garment size.... The writing on the tags have long since
been erased due to two years of washing haha so I don't know. Whatever you have
been sending me for my mission is a great fit though. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Clothes? Just a good pair of shoes and some jeans. I don't
know how much I have grown. The jeans that I am wearing right now are a little
tight and they size 32'30. I forgot what the numbers mean. Man writing this
part of the letter I feel inadequate to come back to the real world haha.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
And food? Christines good punch, Grandmas Tacos, Dads Cheesy
Cheeto Eggs, Shrimp Enchiladas, and I don't know if this exists in the States,
plantains. Its looks like a big banana. I hope it does!<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-25256196647109885122015-11-23T14:34:00.000-08:002015-11-25T15:04:13.623-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 11.23.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was actually thinking about Bam Bam this week. About 3
days ago i thought to myself that he is probably getting old and might not
remember me when I get back. But if not at least he could be my cuddle bud
during some of the movies I'll be watching. Darn. That actually made me a little
sad to hear that. But everything will be ok. Maybe we can get a Golden
Retriever, Great Dane, or Rott Weiler to feel the void. Just spit balling here
of course.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday we had the first Stake Conference of the Cartago
Stake. One of the many blessings of this area is that I tend to see my two old
areas frequently. People began to make plans to say goodbye to me seeing as I'm
nearing the One Month Left mark. We will be headed to the temple on the 5th of
December for a sealing of my converts so ill be able to see the members of
Sarapiqui as well before I head off. The only area that I won't be able to say
goodbye to is my area of Cañas because it is in the other mission. I have been
trying to call my converts there for the past year but I think that they
changed cell numbers. I have been trying to find the way to contact them but we
will see how it works out. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The conference was great. All of the messages were great.
Haha the new patriarch went a little trigger happy calling the members to
repentance with a moving talk about the signs of the times. Haha it was like
watching an Evangelist preacher. One of the members leaned over to me and said,
"Do you feel like he is laying it on a little thick or is it just
me?" haha it was pretty funny.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are just working here a little bit more in Turrialba. We
have found a couple of new families that look like the Spirit has already given
them their answers. You can see the it in their eyes the moment that they
understand on a deeper level that this is true and is going to bless them. I
realized how little we do in the work. We liiterally are here to invite others
to accept or reject this message. If they accept they progress. We are here to
baptize those that will accept right now. So it's awesome to see who the Lord
has prepared for us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways I love you all and I'll be seeing you soon. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-3759262177762037602015-11-16T14:37:00.000-08:002015-11-25T15:04:29.886-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 11.16.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today we woke up and did our Spring Cleaning. The house is
officially spotless. It was a little gross. My companion cuts his own hair and
he put me in charge of cleaning the bathroom. I realized how little he cleans
up after a cut. Oh well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week has been a little frustrating for us. We worked as
hard as we could to bring people to church. We passed by everyday and
recommitted them to come. They always answered "Of course I'll go!" Super enthused, right? So we even called Sunday in the morning and a lot said yeah we will see
you in a few minutes. But once the service started we realized that no one had
come nor was in their way :'( we just felt a little disappointed. My companion
said it's like waiting at the restaurant for your girlfriend and she never came. Haha that made me laugh a little bit cause I totally felt that way. Our relationships
and love for our investigators is weird haha. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But everything is going great right now. We are working and
seeing little miracles here and there. We are loving our missionary service and
we are just moving forward. We love you all and we are praying that you will
all receive testimonies to keep moving forward. The best thing that we can do
is be humble enough to be obedient, even though we may not understand perfectly
what is going on in the world. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nephi said that he was ''guided by the Spirit, not knowing
beforehand the things which he should do''. He first obeyed the Spirit, and
then everything worked out. Let us be obedient and He will provide the way for
us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Have a great week! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">-Elder Neider</span>JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-17828192196068341172015-11-14T17:35:00.003-08:002015-11-14T17:35:51.148-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 11.10.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday we got back late and didn't have the opportunity to
write. So I am replying right now :)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Good to hear that Honda is doing great. He is still a
goofball. We write every so often. We will see how things all work when we are
all back home. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I put Grandma and Grandpas names on the prayer roll. Hope
that all is well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So some good news is that on the 5th of December we will be
going to the temple to seal another family of my converts. haha I love going to
the temple.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week has been a little strange. We haven't been able to
be in our area for a while. We went and got my green card renewed, had zone
conference with President, went for divisions, and a bunch of other
stuff. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We had a funny experience though. We had a member tell us
that he made an appointment to speak in a local Evangelist congregation. The
thing is that the Pastor does studies of other churches and teaches his group
about them. So this member said lets go. We asked our President for permission.
He said it was ok as long as we only testified. So we went. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Apparently the member didn't make an official appointment so
obviously the Pastor felt like we were intruding. We walked into a little
building that was pitch black and all you could hear was angry shouting about
the Holy Ghost, power of God. When he noticied that we were there, he told his
wife to continue with their service as he went to speak with us. We walked out
into the hallway and without us saying a single word, he began to speak I'll of
the church and of Joseph Smith. He yelled at us that the heavens were sealed
and that God doesn't speak anymore because He left us with the Bible and that is
all we need. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I asked him why he thought that the heavens were sealed and
if he knew of a verse that said that there would be no more revelation. He
leaned in close and said, When Christ was on the cross, one of his last words
were, It is finished. SO there you have it Elder Nayder, the Lord himself said
that there would be no more. No man can claim to have written more scriptures
after this moment. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I simply said, that is a great answer hermano. Except for
the fact that the Lord revealed the Books of The Acts, Galatians, Ephesian,
Colossians, Thessalonians, Romans, Hebrews, Corinthians, 2 books of Peter, 3
books of John, two letters to timothy, letters to Titus,, Philemon, Jude, and
the Prophecies of the Apocalypse known as Revelations. He didn't say a word. To
which i testified that the Lord does love us and continues to speak to us
through living prophets and apostles. And then my companion testified. And then
he threw us out. hahahaha<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Classic<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways I hope that everything is going great at home. I
love you all lots.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-43553166139965307512015-11-08T20:59:00.001-08:002015-11-08T20:59:41.463-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 11.2.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What a wonderful week in the CR. Man, we felt of a bunch of
really cool experiences. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We got to go to the temple on Saturday to seal a family
together. I had never been to a sealing ordinance before. It was an incredibly
beautiful experience. The temple president did the ordinance. He has been
taught a lot by the Spirit in the temple so many great things. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was actually a pretty interesting experience leading up
to the sealing actually. In the morning, Elder Hatch said our District prayer
and asked for a personal miracle for each missionary. It came to pass. My
companion was complaining the whole trip that he didnt want to go and wake up
early and be there which bothered the pants off of me. When we got there, we
learned that there was another Honduraño there to be seal. He was from the same
stake as my companion so that was his miracle. One of mine was that all the
youth and leaders from my last area came to do baptisms so I got to spend time
with those saints as we waited for the endowment session. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We went into the temple for the endowment session and as we
were getting changed, they started the session so we werent able to attend that
part of the trip. But we soon learned that their wasn't sufficient temple
workers in the temple to assist a family baptize and confirm 56 of their
ancestors. If there wasnt two Melchezedek Priesthood holders present they would
have had to go home without the work done. I know that Heavenly Father was very
present of the needs of those in the temple. After finishing that, we went into
the celestial room to just study and pray until the sealing ordinance. It was
easily one of the best moments of my life. I feel very filled for all that
happened. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways lots of cool things happened. It was a pretty great
birthday as well. Because it was a Sunday and a Fast Sunday at that, we couldn't
do too much to celebrate. But it definately went a lot better than last year.
haha<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love you guys and I hope that everything keeps moving
forward. haha<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-90133211901868015052015-11-08T01:00:00.000-08:002015-11-09T12:21:23.941-08:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 10.26.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week has been pretty good in Turrialba. I have been
having a blast with my companion Elder Godoy. We are getting along very well
with the members. Man, we love them as if they were our own brothers. We know
that they would do whatever for us and they know that they would do anything
for us. We have been going on a bunch of divisions lately. It been pretty
funny. In this area I'm in divisions more than I do visits with my comp. haha
but it's all good. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week we had a couple of difficulties finding quality investigators.
There is a place here called La Rocha or in other words its short for
Cacroaches. Its a little group of houses for coffee harvesters. The thing is
there is that if the harvest isn't yielding much, these families pack up and
leave within hours. Basically they are nomads. A lot of them were incredibly
receptive but had to turn us down with accepting baptismal dates because they
didn't know if tomorrow they had to move or something. A little sad but I know
that Heavenly Father has a plan for them to receive the gospel fully. This week
is going to be SAWEET! Monday: P Day, Tuesday through Thursday: Divisions in
San Diego, Thursday: Mom B Day and Skyping with the family. Friday: Returning
to my area to do divisions with the Bishop. Saturday Morning: Sealing Ordinance
with my Converts. It's gonna be a very fulfilling week. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am going to send the photos in a separate email so stay
tuned. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love you all and I'll definitely put G and G in the temple
roll. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Elder Neider</span>JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-27242053183207605352015-10-19T16:02:00.007-07:002015-10-19T16:03:33.645-07:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 10.19.15<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dear Family,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This week has been kinda crazy. It was the week of changes.
We went to San Jose to play soccer as a misión and it began to rain. But it was
pretty great. I don't play so great right now because I had an ingrown toenail. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Which reminds me... haha this week I got my toenail taken
out. haha it was getting worse and worse and then a fungus got into it. So we
talked to a member here in Turrialba to check it out. She told me that the only
thing to do was to get the whole nail removed. So we did. We went to the hospital
in San Jose and we had a little surgery. Stay tuned for photos. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">We haven't been able to work too much because the doctor told
me I had to take a day of rest. So my companion went on divisions and I stayed
in a members house. Good heavens how boring that was. No TV, no video games,
nothing to read, etc. I am so glad that I can walk now because sitting on the
couch all day is just plain dumb. I realized that I am an outdoor person and I love to work. Man that was so lame. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Cool decorations. We probably wont be able to decorate much
here. The Ticos think its a satanic holiday. oh well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Love you all lots. Thanks for the video of Oliver. Cute kid.
I think he gets it from Corbin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sigamos Adelante,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">-Elder Neider</span>JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-85689954063823035112015-10-18T18:57:00.004-07:002015-10-18T18:58:02.816-07:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 10.13.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sorry that I couldn't write yesterday. We ran down to San
Jose for awhile to play soccer and by the time we got home to write, P-Day had
ended. So we got permission to write today. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday we had a pretty cool experience. We have a young
man named Pablo. He is a drug addict. So we took him up to a rehabilitation
center because he really wants to change. We sat in on a AA meeting. I can't
remember the correct name in English! haha I can only spell it in Spanish.
Weird right? Alcoholicos Anonimos. It went well but we found that they wont
take him in because he needs a certain medication to sleep. To quit the crack,
cigars, and alcohol but keep the medication going wouldn't bring results so they
refuse to take him. oh well. Eventually we got kicked out because he tried
giving some cigars to the people in the facility. oops...<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I got my temple recommend renewed yesterday as well so I'll
be headed to the temple with Patricia and Juan Jose this October 31st to have
them sealed together! I'm so pumped for that. It'll be a great week. Skype on
Moms B-Day, Baptism on the 30th, Sealing on the 31st, Birthday on the 1st and
our mom in the area is having her birthday on the 2nd. As the late great Maria
Antoinette once said, "Let them eat cake".<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Poor girl doesn't have a head now... shucks that's rough.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Things are going great here. We well have baptized 3 people
this month so I'm feeling great. We are preparing for November now. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday as well was transfers. My companion, Elder Godoy,
will be staying here with me for another change. He will at the very least stay
here in Turrialba for 9 months. This is his first area. hahaha. It's possible
that he'll be my last companion. If not, my last companion will only be with me
for 2-3 weeks. haha it's coming to a close pretty quick. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways I love you lots and I hope that everything is great.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">-Elder Neider</span>JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-91412574861903938542015-10-11T20:52:00.001-07:002015-10-11T20:54:36.549-07:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 10.5.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week was pretty great with the temple and conference.
Haha I know that none of my predictions were right but oh well. haha. I have
always really liked Elder Rasband. His talks always are about a verse that I've
read thousands of times but he teaches it on a whole new level. Elder Renlund
gave a talk last conference in Abril about a Saint is a sinner who keeps
trying. And Elder Stevenson, I recognized his face but I didn't know anything
about him. I could feel the Spirit strongly during their testimonies. I know
they are called of God to help all of us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This conference the major themes I could gather were: The
Sabbath Day, being an example, and searching for testimony in the basic
principles of the gospel. I really enjoyed this conference because I could feel
the global need for change. I felt that it was a true warning voice and man did
they promise blessings for us all. I felt their council was direct and easy to
apply. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The temple was amazing. We all left feeling the spirit of
consecration. Our mission president, after the session, pulled us all in to the
chapel across the street to speak to us for a second. He spoke of consecration
and what kind of blessings it could bring us. I can definately sense a
difference between President Hayes and President Wilkenson. Both incredible.
President Wilkenson really wanted to push us to do our best. President Hayes
feels like he is on a higher plane spiritually than us and is beckoning us to
come on up. I love these two men. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week we had a cool baptism. Camila. Her father, who was
baptized as of 4 months, performed the ordinance. We will baptize another youth
named Leiner this coming weekend and both will be confirmed on Sunday. The work
is doing pretty well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That's about all that happened this week. Thanks for all your
support! Love you all,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-93475421903840432015-10-04T18:41:00.006-07:002015-10-04T18:41:57.573-07:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 9.28.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week has been pretty tough for me. Just a lot of
learning and eternal progression stuff. We have a great month of baptisms
coming up and this Sunday we had a big scare that people weren't going to come
to church. Others haven't been answering their phones or returning calls. So we
have been a little on edge. But, everything seems to be ok now that we have
been able to contact them all again. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well, this is going to be an interesting conference don't ya
think? 3 Apostles are going to be called. I'm placing my money on Elder Tad R
Calister, Chad Wilkenson, and Michael A Neider. But who knows? Anything can
happen. Btw, what has Uncle Mike been doing since his release as a Mission
President? It just dawned on me that I have no idea what he has done for a living.
haha oops. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tomorrow we will be going to the temple as a zone. I love
the temple with all my heart. I'll have the opportunity to go regularly as I'm
finishing my last 2 transfers here with sealings, zone trips, and the last
visit in December. It's crazy how fast this is coming to an end. I don't like it
haha but there is a time and a season for everything right? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don't have much to report on other than that. It's been a
pretty normal week. I'll end with a quick experience. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is a man here named Hector. He is 66 years old and is
originally from Limon Costa Rica. This is the zone where everyone is black and
speaks a pigeon english called Patwah. But he is a small white Costa Rican...
so imagine how he talks. When we came to his house the first time, he had his
walls lined with pornagraphic material and photos of Jesus as a baby. haha it
was kinda of a weird like, "I guess you can serve God and Mammon"
thing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have been teaching him for a little bit and we invited
him to church. The next visit we decided to invite him to remove the porn and
replace them with pictures of Christ. He said he used the magazines to cover
holes in his walls. So we left him a bunch of pamphlets with photos. When we
came back, he had gotten rid of most of the porn and his walls are literally
lined with the words and photos of the pamphlets. He said, " I couldn't get
rid of all the girls I have because you didn't leave me with enough photos to
cover up those walls. Sorry elders. I tried though." We laughed together
and gave him a pat on the back. He really likes the changes that he is making
in his life. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday he left his house at 8 to come to church. But
forgot the way to the church. He eventually showed up at 9:47. "Listen
gringo. I didn't break my promise. I left at 8 to get here on time but I couldn't
find it. Not my fault" haha he is very sincere about coming unto Christ. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways that's my experience for today. I hope you all
enjoyed. I'll talk to ya next week. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Sigamos Adelante<br />
-Elder Neider</span>JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-63687547473629237772015-10-04T18:36:00.004-07:002015-10-04T18:37:17.926-07:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 9.21.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week just flew by. I have already been in Turrialba for
a month. We are seeing a whole bunch of miracles here. We are preparing many
people and everyone is receiving us well. One member told me, Elder Neider, you
came just in time to harvest many. haha I can't complain about that. We have 10
possibilities for October right now. I'm super pumped. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As well my converts from my first area have just had their
final interviews to go to the temple and be sealed together. President Hayes is
giving us permission to go and attend the ordinance. I have never been in a
sealing before so im just plain tickled to see them in my first time as
well. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This coming week is Conference and I can't wait! I love
conference so much. Please find some way to snag tickets. We take living so
close for granted. GO! You'll always always remember and cherish being in a room
with the living Apostles and Prophet. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In other news Lauren got called to go to serve in the
Florida Orlando mission! She´ll go in the MTC the 27th of January. SO cool!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Other than that there isn't much to report on. I love you lot
and I hope you prepare yourselves for Conference.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-1736344663472796062015-09-14T10:31:00.001-07:002015-09-14T10:34:12.465-07:00Turriabla, Cartago, Costa Rica 9.14.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Haha Brendon looks a little like he either doesn't know how
to hold a baby, is uncomfortable doing it, or just let off a ¨spooky¨.
hahaha. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week has been pretty great. We have a couple of
possible baptisms coming up in October as well as a couple sealing ordinances
in the temple with some of my first converts. I'm so stinkin´excited! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ok this is the story about the kid. One year ago, I had
changes from Cartago to Cañas right? Well my first companionship there lasted
only 2 weeks for many problems. (Now that's a story for another day) So we had
emergency changes and we went to San Jose for 5 days. During that time we did
divisions with the secretaries. One night Elder Lewis and I were working and we
came to a point where we had no idea what to do. Everyone canceled on us and
all the members were busy. So I suggested that we say a prayer and ask Heavenly
Father where we should go. Elder Lewis offered the prayer and we began to walk.
About 10 feet later we stopped to a woman how was sweeping her patio. We offered
our help and she said no. We then presented ourselves and she invited us in. We
asked if she wanted to invite her family to come join us. This is when the
young man came out to listen. We taught with power and authority and invited
them to be baptized. At the end of the lesson the young man asked when we could
come back to place baptismal dates with his father and brothers. haha then I went back to Cañas with Elder Rivera the following day. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every once and awhile when I would call the office, I'd ask
how this family was. It seemed as if the secretaries stopped teaching them a
few weeks later. But every time I passed the office I knocked on that door to
see if they were there and invite them to church at the very least, but they
were never home. But I felt drawn to that door. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder Vandermeyden became the secretary later and I asked
him again about this house. He said we would go look for it. One day he found
it and told me what had happened. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This young mans name is Jorge. After our lesson with him, he
became converted. Sadly his family no. He was 17 which meant he needed parental
permission to be baptized which was denied. So this young man continued to
attend church for the following 8 months until he turned 18 and was baptized.
He is currently preparing to go to the temple to receive his endowment in
preparation for his mission this following year. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I was leaving to come here to Turriabla, one of the
sisters called him over to speak about things in his ward and I recognized him.
So I went over to talk to him. I asked him if he knew who I was. He said that I looked familiar but that he couldn't recall where because he only knows the
missionaries that have served in San Jose. I then told him how Elder Lewis and
I had found his home. He began to remember and he told me his conversion
story. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was a pretty cool moment that I had been looking forward
to for a long long time. He is the convert that I only had to teach once.
Pretty neat huh? <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways, I love you all lots. Hope you have a great week!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Sigamos Adelante, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-10525191013717398822015-09-07T10:59:00.002-07:002015-09-07T10:59:43.997-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 9.7.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hahaha what a head of hair! Congradulations! He is going to
be such a stud. I'll teach him everything I know. I hope that he keeps growing
great. What it feel like to be new parents Megan and Tim? How great is
that. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So I had transfers to a place called Turriabla. I'm still in
the Zone of Cartago. I'll end my mission with 13 months in the same zone. My new
companion is named Elder Godoy. He is from Honduras. He is super cool and has
won a lot of confidence with the members here. It's a ward already so our goals
are to purely baptize. It is pretty nice to not have to focus on anything else.
He is the district leader so I also don't have to worry about that stuff
either. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have had a couple cool and funny experiences. We talked
with a man in the street and my companion testified that the keys of the
priesthood have been restored. To which he replied, I have those too! He then
continued to pull a set of plastic keys out of his pocket that had some verses
of the bible written on them. hahaha um..... brother we don't mean like actual
keys... haha esta bien. haha <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I actually came here once on divisions in my first area so I have seen a few of these places before.<br />
Last night we met the pioneer of the ward. 81 year old Odily. I had actually
given her a blessing 18 months ago. We asked her about the story of her
conversion. One of the things that kept calling my attention was the way she
talked about Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. She said that they just have
been so good to me. I know that she knows them personally and that they have
poured out blessings on her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I'm still learning the area so I'm pretty lost all the time.
It'll come with time. What I heard is that I'll be here for this change and then
President wants all missionaries to train the last 3 months. It'll be cool here.
Plus the 2nd counselors legel name is John Baptist so how can we go wrong? haha<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
PS the only things that I would need in a package would be
maybe a good long sleeve white shirt, (the last one was also kidnapped by a
company), Doritos, Smores Pop Tarts and Oreos. Haha I'm doing pretty good. My
companion was wondering if there are those little chocolate eggs from Easter.
He likes those. But really just good old american junk food. haha thanks.<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-37609516119555674162015-09-03T14:29:00.004-07:002015-09-03T14:30:11.119-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 8.31.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Numbres, I was sitting there on the bus when it hit me.
Megan is having a baby right! Haha I was waiting for the photo but looks like I'm just a few hours too soon. We have been praying hard that youll be
physically ok with the birth and that Oliver we come with great health. So
excited to see him next week!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today was suppose to be changes. They never did end up
calling so it looks like 7.5 months in Perez Zeledon. But then we received word
that changes will be on Wednesday, so we still don't know. Looks like we will
have to see. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week has been a very humbling and rewarding week.
Although for the last change we haven't had a single investigator come to
church, i feel like this has been one of the most successful weeks
personally. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I found that my prayers for the last little bit have been
without faith. They have been very routine without a l...<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wait a second. Elder Jackman just received a call from the
zone leaders. haha i have changes. I have to be in the office on Wednesday
morning. We dont know where i am headed off to. President wants to look us in
the face and select by revelation where we will go and with what companion.
Sounds pretty cool. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways with my faithless prayers....<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
...ot of vain repititons. I would ask for very general
blessings and without much effort. So this week I decided to repent. Oh what
joy cometh to the soul! Repentance is the smartest thing you can do. I grabbed
the Ezra Taft Benson book and I read the Pray Always section. I read a bunch
and decided that I needed more faith. As we went home, I kinda just collapsed
to my knees and prayed name for name for those whom I love. What a beautiful
experience I had Since then I feel like I have been searching for more
opportunities to pray one on one with Father in Heaven. He truly does listen
and answer every heartfelt prayer. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week we found another 21 investigators. They show a lot
of promise and we are going to work hard to bring them to church. My companion
will be training here in Perez and im off to who knows where. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyways, that been my week. Lots of cool things to be
looking forward to here as we get changed, have a baby, and keep moving
forward. Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">-Elder Neider</span>JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-61307968550086522122015-08-25T15:22:00.006-07:002015-08-25T15:22:52.410-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 8.24.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It's all good. Haha I know that only the most dire of
circumstances would prevent a letter. No se preocupe. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week we had a pretty cool experience. We had a video
conference with President Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve. What a blessing!
It was cool because we heard from 2 of the mission presidents in Honduras,
President Duncan of the Area Presidency, Elder Cordon of the Area Seventy, and
President Nelson. What really stood out to me is the difference of how they
talk about Heavenly Father in their own words. In General Conference, they
kinda have to follow the talks they write for the translators. But in the
meeting they all had the "freedom of speech" <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Elder Nelson told us of an awesome experience. But,
"the Spirit stoppeth mine utterance and i cannot write more" I think I'll save this story for when I'm back. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was really nice to have had that conference. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday we meet the husband of one of our investigators.
Thats always an interesting experience because we don't know how he'll interpret
our meetings or if he'll accept us. Luckily, he did accept us. We feel that
they have been prepared. They have lots of questions. We learned in the
conference that we don't preach about Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon
enough. Usually we only say, "We believe that the Lord continues to call
His servants in our time" and really dont expand on that. Yesterday i was
more specific. "We believe that the Lord continues to call His servants in
our time, first beginning with the Prophet Joseph Smith" This immediately
grabbed their attention. We invited them to read and to pray. I felt like it
peaked their curiosity a lot. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love my mission! Such great experiences. I've been in Perez
for about 6 months now. And my mission president sent me a message that gives
me a feeling that I'll have changes next week. "Get your area ready to hand
off to someone else" I think I've got one more area in me :'( </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-7760434734746198762015-08-25T15:15:00.001-07:002015-08-25T15:24:11.600-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 8.17.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well this week has been a different kind of a week. We went
on divisions with my Zone Leader Elder Parker. We had a great time and we
worked hard. During that time, I could see that the Lord has been preparing some
more people in this area. I'm really excited to see what happens as we move
forward. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have begun to understand my companions humor lately and
now I'm constantly chuckling. Man this kid is stinking funny. I realized that he
wasn't the problem but that I was. So I said a prayer and I decided to look for
the divine within him. Now we get along very well and we are enjoying the work.
We still aren't having too much success with baptisms or investigators coming to
church, but we have been able to find happiness in magnifying our
callings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is a man here named Alberto Navas. He is the Costa
Rican version of Uncle Donnie. This is the guy in the ward that you can tell he
gives his whole heart to be serving the people in his ward without demanding or
even expecting a reward or thanks. He simply does the work that the Lord has
asked of him and is silently serving in the kingdom. This is kinda how ive
always seen Donnie in his home ward in Idaho. You can just tell they put their
hearts into the callings they have been given. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday, we had the opportunity to help a family change
houses and Hermano Navas was their to help. Afterward we left with him to do
his Home Teaching. Really, they were the normal things that a Latter-Day Saint
should do. But he was giving his all for those that he was serving. Before the
home teaching, he kinda vented to us about the load he has to carry. He asked
why it was him that the Lord has chosen to be that one member that the ward
calls when they have problems. He said that they have a branch president, home
teachers, elders quorum and Relief Society to help them. Hermano Navas doesn't
have a formal calling and yet he serves more than anyone i have ever met. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He is a great example to us missionaries. In response to his
questions we answered and told him,"Hermano, it does not matter WHERE you
serve, but HOW you serve" He doesn't need a formal calling to do what the
Lord has asked. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know that the Lord is more than willing to accept what we
choose to give. He loves us and only asks for our best. I know that if we do
so, He will have room to shape and mold us into what He would have us be or
other words to help us to be like Him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I know that this is the True Church of our Heavenly Father
and He has revealed to us His plan for our happiness. I love you all and invite
you each to more fully give yourselves to your callings. I promise that He will
bless you for it ;)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pura Vida, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-83970510677680768212015-08-10T15:26:00.000-07:002015-11-25T15:04:52.597-08:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 8.10.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well bueno... This week we went up to San Jose twice
for a couple of special conferences. President Kevin R Duncan of the Seventy
came to talk with us. He is the Area President of Central America. He is super
cool. At lunch time I sat down with Elder Jackman to eat our food. And turned
out that the only other seats in the room were at our table. So we ate with
President Duncan, President Hayes, his wife and daughter, and the secretaries.
It was awesome. Elder Duncan was full so he gave me his pork. SAWEET! I thought I made a funny joke. He asked,"Would you like my pork Elder?"
"Sure thing Elder Duncan. I think I'm still within Word of Wisdom
limits" he thought that has a little funny. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My companion and i became a little sick from all the
traveling. Thursday was a nightmare. I felt like there was a mouse in my brain,
trying o push my eyes out of its sockets. It was horrible. But we are feeling
good now. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have recently been praying a lot for direction in my area
to find prepared families. SInce the baptisms of Daniel and Maria Elena, we
haven't had people in the church again. So we are just looking for the next
family that is willing to work on this message. I have learned a lot more about
Heavenly Father's plan for His children. He knows what they need and when they
need it. He doesn't seem to be too worried over all this. He is in control and
He knows when it's time for what. I just asked Him for help to recognize when
it's time for what. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love you all lots. I don't have much more to write this
week. Sorry :P<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-81845721462143621162015-08-04T14:56:00.000-07:002015-08-04T14:57:15.469-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 8.3.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well...bueno. Today we are in Cartago, (my first area) for a
Zone Activity. Man, it was only a testimony meeting but man was it what I needed. It felt like every testimony was about overcoming hard trials and how
the Atonement has blessed everyone. I was super grateful for all of what was
said. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We will be returning to San Jose on Tuesday night to stay
with the secretaries for a multi zone conference with the Area President, Elder
Duncan of the Seventy. Its gonna be SAWEET!!!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This last week I have also been having a little hard time
with stress. It resulted that Hermana Markle thought it best to called the
Mental Therapist of the Area, Elder Plaskett. Today we had the chance to touch
base a little and we found that I have been having minor panic attacks. I don't
have to take medication or anything, but we talked about a few exercises that I can do to calm my body down and relief stress. Nothing too major.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We have been enjoying El Dia de La Virgen in Cartago this
last week. Basically its a celebration of the catholics of Mother Mary.
Everyone walks by foot to Cartago Centro to get to the Costa Rican Vatican.
Once there, they kneel down and walk on their knees to the altar to worship a
volcanic rock which symbolizes her. It makes no sense and is the perfect example
of idol worship but hey, it's all good in the hood. haha.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not too much more to write except that I love you and I'm
glad to hear of some much good news up there in the States. Please make it a
priority to go the temple. Do what you need to make that a central part of your
lives and youll always have enough energy, revelation, and strength to combat
the adversary in the days to come. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">-Elder Neider</span>JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-22377703341693043492015-08-02T14:13:00.002-07:002015-08-02T14:15:00.806-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 7.27.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week has been a little stressful. To start off, my
pants didnt make it. He suffered a sever laceration on the bottoms of his legs.
Hermana Elena did everything she could. But you just cannot physically add
fabric to the pants to make them longer. She told me that it was time. So they
are currently in the dresser of my companion. I had come to terms with it
already. But this morning he said, "I want to go buy a nice pair of dress
pants. All the ones I have are garbage" That ticked me off a bit but I resisted the urge to say something rude. Those were my favorite pants :'( <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The new sisters came in today. My area took a hit with as
much time i had to leave to attend to them moving in. Last night they lost
their telephone which meant i had to run down to San Isidro Center to get their
numbers this morning. We spent an hour and a half looking for them because its
P-Day and they were out buying food and stuff. Eventually we found them and
they laughed at us and our misfortune. "Sorry Elders, but it wasnt our
fault" hahaha its ok Hermana. Once again I had to resist the temptation to
say something rude. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday was pretty cool though. We went to San Jose for a
special conference. The Stake of La Paz was divided and we are now a part of
the Cartago Stake. What a blessing! Unfortunately, will are still a Branch. The
members have stopped working again and so we lost the autorization to become a
ward for now. But i have 5 weeks to get it back. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This month of August we have as a goal, 9 confirmations. It
will require a lot of planning, work, and faith to accomplish. I know that we
can do it though. I have been trying my best to be a good leader and
missionary. We will see what happens<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
ON Saturday, we had our two baptisms. I was super stoked for
them. They are going to be such an awesome family. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That's just about all that happened this last week. We shall
see what this one brings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Love you all, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-43699938576155864612015-07-21T09:35:00.005-07:002015-07-21T09:36:06.119-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 7.20.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pants are currently under reconstruction. The doctors
are trying to save my pants the best they can. He is doing ok. He'll be just
fine buddy. Hang in there. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today is changes. Ill be staying here in Perez Zeledon for
another 6 weeks. The Lord has a little more planned here for me. I hope that I can be humble and receptive to the Spirit to find out what it is He desires of
me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After much planning and prayer, we have been given the
assignment to find a house for a new pair of sisters to come to this area. WHAT
A BLESSING. Here in Perez the majority of houses are single mothers or all the
men are out working. As such, we as elders cannot pass and teach them. With
this blessing we will have a lot more success coming through. I hope that all
goes well. All I know is that the new sister will be training so im excited to
see what miracles the Lord has prepared. New missionaries are always just so
focused and obedient. We just gotta get over the trunky hurdle. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This following Sunday we will be headed to San Jose to
organize a new stake of Cartago! For this stake to form, they need 5 active
wards. They are, Turrialba, Cartago Centro, Tres Rios, Paraiso, and we are
missing one. OH WAIT! Perez Zeledon is turning into a ward! Hooray! Stake
Cartago. Que Bueno.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also we have two baptisms for this Saturday. Daniel and
Maria Elena. They are the coolest two siblings. All of the ward members were
talking to us and asking who reactivated this family. Haha we said we didnt
reactivate them but that we are going to baptize them. And all the jaws dropped
because these converts are just so stinking great. I love the Lord and His
plans for these families. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am especially grateful because i havent had a baptism in
almost 2 and a half transfers. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I love you all and i hope all is going great. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-45749249496579499402015-07-14T20:26:00.000-07:002015-07-14T20:26:02.566-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 7.12.15<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Dear Family, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Hey Elder, have you seen my nice blue dress
pants?" "No" "Maybe Elena is washing them" Later that
day.... "Hey Hermana Elena, have you seen my nice dress pants?"
"No Eldersito. Try checking your apartment one more time"
"ok" even later that day.... "There they are" (Elder Neider
senses that there is something wrong with the pants so he puts them up to legs
to see what's up) "Elder Espinosa, why do my nice blue dress pants only
come up to my kneecaps?" (The fear of God enters the face of Elder
Espinosa) "Oh..... those were YOUR pants? Oh.... I'm sorry. I had Elena fit
them to my size" (Elder Neider stares at pants, then to his companion,
then back to pants)
"................................................................................................" <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well I'm down to 3 pants for the rest of my mission. 2 pairs
of grey pants and one tiny blue that has been shrunk in the wash after so many
uses. Hahahaha he took my pants hahahahaha and got them fitted hahaha im going
to kill him hahahaha just kidding hahahaha he is already dead hahaha<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nombres. There are just some things that happen in the
mission that you never expected to experience. Oh well. haha <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It's been very interesting to me, the lengths that
investigators go to, to stop receiving us. The other day we lost a family of 3
because I showed a lack of respect. The wife didn't want to talk to us so she
left to go into the other room. We taught her son and husband the Restoration
again. Upon leaving, I wanted to just say hi to the mom. So i popped my head into
the room to say it. I watched her as she was climbing out of the closet to hide
from us. She kept her face into the wall as a way to "conceal"
herself better. Obviously she didn't want to say anything so we left. We came
back two days later and the husband left all angry that I had popped my head
in. He said it was very disrespectful and that I real servant of the Lord would
never do that. So he told us we weren't welcome there anymore. I apologized but
he still insisted that we leave. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It was very hard to fight the temptation to not say,
"The real disrespect is hiding in a closet to avoiding saying hi to
someone who's only purpose is to help you be happy" but I felt the Spirit
tell me that in the future they would accept the Gospel and I shouldn't be the
reason the next missionaries are rejected. Man, it was just another instance of
like what the heck Satan? hahaha<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Things are going great though. We have 2 baptisms planned
for the 25 of Julio that we have been waiting ages to do. I fear I may have
transfers the Monday before though. Whatever the Lord wants though. :)
Everything works out in the end. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love you all lots and im just trying to do a little bit
better everyday. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sigamos Adelante, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">-Elder Neider</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">P.S. Elder Johnson is my grandpa in the mission. So glad that
my mission family is meeting my real family hahaha.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3426712975729671914.post-18056986383524133702015-07-14T20:21:00.002-07:002015-07-14T20:21:31.664-07:00Perez Zeledon, Cartago, Costa Rica 7.5.15<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Family,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Well the 4th of July wasn't as fireworky as usual but oh well
:P <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week has been a little long. The normal finding a lot
and then leaving us. It's very interesting. People actually believe that we
worship Joseph Smith. It drives me bonkers because then they don't even let us
explain what we actually believe. It's a little frustrating. But then I learned
that that is where testimony is hidden. Those that can hear, Let them
hear. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This last week I had two cool experiences. The first was
with a family who are actually keeping the commitments. The Spirit in the room
was incredible as they spoke of the love that has entered their lives. Hermana
Patricia actually received a compliment from a nonmember friend. "Patri,
what's happened with you? You just seem to be glowing and happy all of a sudden.
What have you been up to?" It's experiences like that that make it all
worth serving. What I would give to find more families like this and to feel
that kind of love. For those that are preparing to serve, man, you're in for
something incredible that can only be experienced and not explained. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The second cool experience was that of waiting for our
lunch. This little girl named Fernanda came into the room and began to sing and
dance. I have recently been studying a lot about the Plan of Salvation. I know
that little children are saved in Christ, so they dont need baptism until the
age of accountability. So I tried to picture her spirit and I knew that I was
in the presence of a celestial being clothed only in a tiny "tabernacle of
clay". It was a beautiful experience and I eventually began to cry because I was so touched to feel that honor of seeing her. It's like that with every
child.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don't have much more to report on. Only that this week I also learned of the 3 kingdoms of glory and who goes where. We need to work
harder to help Grandpa and Cami to be baptized and make these important
covenants IN THIS LIFE. This is their opportunity. The Spirit World temple work
is for those that did not receive an opportunity in this life. We must work
with more earnestness. We can ask our Heavenly Father more fervantly and
petition Him what is our role to help out. I love you all and I know we shall
all be together forever. Stay strong and stick to the Lord :)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sigamos Adelante,<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Elder Neider<o:p></o:p></div>
JNeiderhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15913216965172351334noreply@blogger.com0