E-mail dated 5/18/09

So pretty much the coolest thing happened today. We had a super p-day (a p-day where the whole zone gets together and normally plays soccer . . but not this time) where we went to a wulke farm (pronounced wookie like in star wars). Yes, we went to a farm. We get there and the first thing I notice is a chimpanzee running around in the front garden. I think I said "What the heck?" I was so confused. I've seen chimps before, but the've always been in a cage. As we begin to walk closer to it the chimpanzee runs toward one of the missionaries and grabs his legs and climbs up into the arms of this missionary (it was no small climb as this missionary is 6'5"). After a couple minutes it was tired of him and he came into my arms. I'm dead serious I held a chimpanzee today. He even climbed on my back and got my shirt all dirty, the little . . .. It was so cool. The rest of the farm wasn't so cool but hey, who cares what happens the rest of the day, I held a monkey.

Another wierd animal story for this week. In my area is an island completely surrounded by swamp. We go to this island every wednesday to visit members, less actives, and investigators. I was told that there are hippos and alligators in that very swamp. I asked about the Giraffes and they said no. Dang it. I won't be going to close to the swamp as i don't want to be eaten by a hungry hungry hippo.

Swine-flu shmine flu. Try Malaria. No sympathy here.

As for the spiritual side of the week. We had a zone conference this past tuesday and holy goodness gracious was it well needed. I love president squires so much. I learned alot from my interview. We were able to watch the priesthood session of conference. Man, you peolple are enjoying. I had no idea that is what was said. The definite theme of the meeting was How to replace fear with faith -- Service. Every single one talked about how we can somehow in someway serve others. President Eyring gave a powerful talk about that military dude . . but you guys have known about this for a couple months now so i'll stop. But wow it was good.

I'm continuing to learn about obedience everyday. Don't feel to bad that you weren't able to talk to me for to long, just be grateful that you were able to talk. I know that sounds kind of harsh but obedience is always the best option. I wish I could say more about what I've learned but now is not the time. "When the Lord commands it - Do it!" -Joseph Smith-

We do use the manual to teach with in Elders Quorum and Relief Society. But lately I've been spending more time in the youth and primary. I don't do much anymore as we don't have the resources for me to play the keyboard. I usually reject any kind of teaching oppourtunity because it would be of more benefit if they learn to do it themselves and not rely on the missionaries so much. I don't have the gift of tongues by the way. This language is in no way, shape, or form a kind of tongue. Peolple here think the gift of tongues is just saying jibberish like abbabababab bab babab whilst they are preaching. I've learned alot about what they are because I need to teach them what the true meaning of the gifts are.

Thanks for the update on the NBA. The only internet I use is the email and lds.org, so every little bit is news to me. GO MAGIC!!! The only thing I will be needing in the next couple months is some contact solution. Oh, I have made friends with a tailor that sews african dresses. I could smooth talk my way into her making dresses for you and brittany for like $10. So if you are interested please give me any measurements that she might need by next monday. I don't know what she will need because I'm not the one who knows how to make dresses. Just an idea.

Elder Degen