tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67360557477723469472024-02-18T19:41:50.607-08:00Elder Jacob Matthew Preciado Kobe, Japan 2014-2016Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-61524624855041624502015-07-07T10:53:00.002-07:002015-07-07T10:54:11.966-07:00One year July 9th!!!! Week 43<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBhy_YZimONG4fOR_hhzUZOaN6tT79eqSFQU85QoEwl9qKUW6fmP3kb7iBk_jgfE1a9waWQ4C6E48DyURORkh77hTg9wUO2tKxh0JsWllTEo6AVuZl5dT2W3H0bmX8l75FyL_gUgCtpul/s1600/image1+%252820%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBhy_YZimONG4fOR_hhzUZOaN6tT79eqSFQU85QoEwl9qKUW6fmP3kb7iBk_jgfE1a9waWQ4C6E48DyURORkh77hTg9wUO2tKxh0JsWllTEo6AVuZl5dT2W3H0bmX8l75FyL_gUgCtpul/s640/image1+%252820%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436290732731_3413">Greetings citizens, my fellow friends and family.</span><br /><br /><span id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436290732731_3388">It's been a bit crazy this past week with transfer week, and hospital visits. Last week, my old companion Elder Nitta was transferred out after being here for six months serving as the Branch president. My new companion, Elder Watanabe, and I arrived here last Friday. Back in Shingu. With this illness I've got, it's driven me to the sheets of my futon. I constantly am needing rest just to keep myself going. Last Wednesday is when Elder Nitta and I headed out for transferring. All day walking, trains, carrying different luggage and possessions of my companion for him, just about killed me. I felt I was going to pass out many times. But we safely made it to Wakayama for the night, and got myself ready for another full day of transferring. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We rolled out to Tennoji Eki in Osaka, and there was where I met Elder Watanabe. Then we rushed onto the train and trained to get to Tanabe as fast as possible, I had an appointment in the hospital that closed around 6 PM. And from where we were it took about 5 hours with trains, traveling distance, and so on. We were cutting it very close. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We finally made it to Tanabe, and we had to almost run to the hospital! I was dying with my condition. But I made it! And was able to see the doctor to get the results of my last weeks test for a parasite. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And NOPE! No flipping parasite within me. I was upset about that. It's quite ironic how this is considered as BAD news in my case. Had I had one in me, we could take care of it. But the fact that I don't, and are still don't know what's wrong, just puts us in a guessing game. It seems we have tried everything, but are still looking for ways to figure this out. I ain't giving up! What I am doing, is just setting out my sail, and going where the wind of our Father in Heaven is taking me. I know it will all work out. I feared immensely when we began this all. Back in Kyoto. But as I've learned to just trust in the Lord, I know it will be alright. It will just be alright. There's a phrase I love in Japanese that a friend whom I love very dear, taught me. It is,"なんとかなる" (nan toka naru) which basically means it will all work out. I know that Heavenly Father is mindful of every one of us. I also know that he loves me, absolutely, one hundred percent purely, and perfectly. And because he does, I have no need to fear. </span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">1 John 4:18</span></i></b></div>
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<b id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436290732731_3392"><i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1436290732731_3391"><span style="font-size: large;">"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love."</span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we learn to just love the lord, and love his ways, his teachings, everything, things will be alright. They will just be okay. His love has created me into someone better, and is continuing to do so everyday. The good news is, that it's infinite, and free for us to partake of everyday. Through this, and many other experiences I've gone through here, his love casts out every bit of fear, it replaces every bit of darkness, with the brightest light, "above the brightness of the sun"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For God is love, and "he is the light and life of the world."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It was a hard week, but also a good one. I don't know why, but it was. I'm just loving life. Hope you all have a great week, and are filled with Gods love always.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Love you all,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Elder Preciado</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">P.s. I would love to hear from you! :)</span></div>
Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-15224147555006460402015-06-29T18:14:00.003-07:002015-06-29T18:15:02.136-07:00What's good folks....Week 42<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<br />
<span style="background: white;">Another
week here in the Japan Kobe Mission has gone by. And it is</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">transfer
week. My freakin gangster of a companion, Elder Nitta is</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">leaving
to a different area. It was an awesome time working with him.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">I had
some of my funniest moments with him, but also some of my</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">hardest.
It was a fruitful transfer with many things learned,</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">experienced,
and well...still AM experiencing. Out of every person</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">who's
ever worn the black badge, he's one of my favorite missionaries,</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">and am
gonna miss him crawling into my futon every morning and getting</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">in the
covers to say "good morning," just inches from my face. I'm</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">just
gonna miss him a lot and know he's gonna do well over in his new</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">area.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background: white;">My new
companion is Elder Watanabe. And this dude.. Oh man. He is the</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">MAN. I
met him earlier in the mission and we've had some good</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">conversations
and just become good friends. And now I'm his companion.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">He is so
kind, so funny, and so loving. I know despite my health</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">challenges,
we will still be a good companionship. I think president</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">knew what
he was doing when he assigned him to me during this time.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background: white;">To update
you all, cause I know you all are wondering, I'm still sick</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">like I
always have been! Sorry I don't have the answer you all wanna</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">hear
right now. Nor is it the answer I wanna share with you all. We</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">got word
on the blood tests, and everything seems normal so the doctor</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">says, and
so that means they haven't found anything. I was asked by</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">the Asia
North Doctor and President Welch to take a stool test,</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">testing
to confirm whether or not I have a parasite of some</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">sort...pretty
yucky to think I may have one... That was taken last</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">Thursday
and we should be hearing the results within the coming week.</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">Pray it's
a parasite people. If not I don't know what there gonna do</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">to me
next.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background: white;">Through
it all I have the whitest knuckles. From holding on so tightly</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">to my
faith, and hopes. I've been so broken apart it feels like. But I</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">know
it'll all work out, one way or another. I also know that Jesus is</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">the
Christ. The living Son of God. And that through his love and his</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">atonement,
He can piece me back together. After all, that's why he did</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">it. I'm
not giving up. I'm still pushing along trying to make things</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">happen.
Thanks for your prayers, and the sacrifices you've made for</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">me. It's
been a blessing! I'll be sure to fill you all in on what's</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">going on
with me when I find out. Until then, keep trekking and know</span><br />
<span style="background: white;">all is
well.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="background: white;">Love you all and thank you again for all your Love and Prayers!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="background: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="background: white;">Elder Preciado</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="background: white;"> Last time with Elder Nitta!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIxB0_qlVRBmLRWOM2F6zgHRcRAvoMuPi9jN055LdUxR_mX__hJ4vsIzUARlyhSLOpdvwGIvreI2pabCC38lU6zp-Vk53bDfDiULZpnElLCI8h7O6PsELxg_Sz-tM9N60z5fCV6CVKZY1D/s1600/image1+%252819%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIxB0_qlVRBmLRWOM2F6zgHRcRAvoMuPi9jN055LdUxR_mX__hJ4vsIzUARlyhSLOpdvwGIvreI2pabCC38lU6zp-Vk53bDfDiULZpnElLCI8h7O6PsELxg_Sz-tM9N60z5fCV6CVKZY1D/s640/image1+%252819%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 15.3333320617676px; text-align: start;">Here's one from a service</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 15.3333320617676px; text-align: start;"><br /><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">activity we did this last week. I felt TERRIBLE during it... The</span><br /><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">special needs daycare we volunteer at had a "cafe" day where they were</span><br /><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">waiters, and served people that came in to have some drinks or</span><br /><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">desserts. Pretty cute activity. They asked us to help, and so we</span><br /><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">dressed up and joined.</span></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p>Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-30413005173622809032015-06-21T21:56:00.001-07:002015-06-29T18:14:52.158-07:00Exile Episode 2 - The Return of the Mysterious Sickness Week 41<blockquote id="yui_3_16_0_4_1434948656287_213" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin: 1em;" type="cite">
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Hello everyone,<br />
<br />
I'm sad to say it's been a heart breaking week for me...<br />
<br />
It has been reestablished that I'm still suffering from the same<br />
illness I received in Kyoto back in January... Don't bother asking<br />
how, because I don't know.<br />
<br />
From that time, I felt much better than I did before. But during the<br />
time from when I "got better" until now, I've always felt these<br />
symptoms off and on, realizing now that I never felt 100% that entire<br />
time. I always brushed them off, thinking "oh it's just a hot day" or<br />
something like that. "I'll be better tomorrow." The beginning of this<br />
transfer, basically when coming to Shingu, is when these symptoms<br />
started appearing more frequent, and stronger. ESPECIALLY these past<br />
few weeks. The bad nausea, the headaches, the drained energy after<br />
walking up a small flight of stairs, the stomach pains, the struggle<br />
to eat, all of it, all back, all taking me out pretty hard. It's to<br />
the point where I am feeling as if I just barely got sick again...<br />
I've already lost about 10 lbs and have been the thinnest I've been in<br />
a long time. Don't know what it was that held me up during that period<br />
of time before, but I'm longing for whatever it was, because<br />
this...this really sucks to say the least.<br />
<br />
My beloved friend, Elder Grossen, is still sick as well, despite him<br />
having returned home already and visiting doctors. It's an ongoing<br />
mystery that I wish I could turn off like a light switch. Received a<br />
CT scan, this last week to check it out, and nothing. "Here's some<br />
medicine, now go home, sleep more, eat more, and try and do stuff and<br />
you'll be better." It's what I heard all throughout my time in Kyoto<br />
from the doctors, and it's even being said way out here in the middle<br />
of nowhere. I've tried that already man. Elder Grossen, it's okay to<br />
laugh, I know you're trying to hold it in.<br />
<br />
I don't have much else to say, the week was a hard one trying to not<br />
throw up and just simply feel good. I guess on the bright side, it's<br />
given me some time to throw myself into the scriptures. (Even though<br />
it's so hard to focus ha...) I felt I was handling this situation well<br />
before, but I feel much better about it I guess you could say.<br />
Actually, more comforted, is a better word. I don't necessarily have<br />
the faith that I'm going to instantly get better, but more rather,<br />
that everything will be alright. Everything will just be okay. I can't<br />
predict the future, but this much I know, that God loves me, and that<br />
I can still do what I can in my abilities. As long as I do my part, I<br />
know he will do the rest. For all things are done in the wisdom of<br />
Him, whom knoweth all things.<br />
<br />
In a spiritual sense, I'm doing okay. I'm looking forward with a<br />
brightness of hope, and will accept what is thrown my way, curve balls<br />
and all. I'm doing what is in my abilities. Your prayers are much<br />
needed. I could use it. I'm thankful for my companion being a good<br />
sport. I love him a lot. I know it seems like I have been doing fine<br />
in past weeks, but like I said, I've felt it off and on, and it's<br />
back. Don't know why, but looking forward with optimism.<br />
<br />
I love you all very much, I hope you all always remember that.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
<br />
Jake</blockquote>
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-72900448265545344112015-06-15T16:08:00.001-07:002015-06-15T16:08:52.507-07:00Hey all! Week 40<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116134">
So I don't have much time today to write a super awesome email, but will share my highlight of the week! I've written some the night before to make sure it's all here!</div>
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So as I've shared before, I've been called to be second counselor in the presidency here in Shingu. For some reason, I guess because I'm a missionary, I thought that the situation would be different. Meaning I I thought I would just automatically be given the title because one is needed, and would just continue on with the work. But it is treated just like any other call to the presidency. One of the Sakai Stake counselors came (with one of his high council men), interviewed me, sustained me during sacrament meeting, and set me apart and gave me a blessing along with the authority and keys to be the second counselor of the Shingu Branch.</div>
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<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116131">
Our interview was good, but hard due to the Japanese. I passed so it's all that matters haha. It was a wonderful sacrament meeting! In fact, it was just good to see the both of them again. I had met President "Tail Cape" and Brother "West Swamp" before. Brother West Swamp is from the Hashimoto Branch, which was my first area in the mission. It was so awesome to see him again and to actually be able to TALK to him unlike last time as my Japanese level was in the dumps then. It brought back some memories that are well cherished. </div>
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<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116145">
The best part was the actual setting apart of the calling. President Tail Cape is an awesome man whom is very wise. He spoke a little bit about the calling, and the priesthood before hand. Not a whole lot due to time, but enough to overflow the room with the spirit. It was strong. We then proceeded with the setting apart. I listened attentively so I could understand and really think about what was being said. It obviously was in Japanese haha. It was my companion, the first counselor, Brother West Swamp and President Tail Cape performing the ordinance. An awesome blessing was given to me. It was very concise, powerful, and clear blessing me to have the ability to help lead and guide the branch and to meet the needs of the members, etc. After the blessing ended, I stood up and gave everyone a big hug and thanked them, but looked at a President Tail Cape and saw his eyes filled with tears. I asked him why he was crying! He put his arm around me and looked at me with a look of awe for some reason and turned to the others and said, "this man is powerful brethren." He cried some more. "Out every person I've ever layed my hands upon to set apart, I've never felt so much power coming from anyone. This is the strongest experience I've had. You truly have the power of God within you. You are an amazing person. What a great blessing Shingu has to have you here!"</div>
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I looked at him and I too began crying. For the kindness and love shown to me. With all this being said, I'm happy to be here in the calling and place I'm in. I don't share this to show off how great I am or any of that. I am nothing! I am far from being perfect in anything I do. But I try every day. That's what makes the difference. We all make mistakes. But the Lord is never upset with anyone who is really trying. He accepts it and helps them keep going. I've really learned to know who Jesus Christ is, and why we must follow him here in this life. My mission has taught me many things, but so far I believe the most important thing is that simply of Jesus Christ, the son of God. He is the only way! We can't do anything without him. Following Him sets the light, and the example and gives us the ability to have that power and spirit so that others can feel and can grow from it. I know that He is the Christ, the son of the living God. I've written a poem during some of the time on my mission. Not all at once, but here and there every now and then. I challenge all to follow what is written in it. Or in other words to follow and become like Jesus Christ! Our lives will become filled with more blessings beyond compare when we do so. I call it, "The Way of the Master." </div>
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<div>
Love you all! Until next week. Enjoy!</div>
<div>
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<div>
Elder Preciado </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116149">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>The Way of the Master</i></span><br />
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"What's this life worth? What do I get?"</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>A young man once thought.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>His wise father had said,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"Why, It's something that can't be bought."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"Then where do I go! What do I do!</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>I've worked so hard to find it!"</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>The young man had not a clue.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>Feeling impatient, He threw a fit.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"I work night and day,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>and I make the right choices."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"But this piercing uncertainty,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>is but an eternal rush hour,</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116155" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>full of commotion, chaos, and noises."</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116154" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116156" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>The young man was sorrowful.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>For he was trapped in confusion.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>His kind and loving father answered,</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116153" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>to put it to conclusion.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116157" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"My son, my son!</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116158" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>Be of good cheer!"</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116152" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"I have the answer,</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116151" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>if you're willing to hear."</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116150" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116148" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"What I will say,</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116159" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>may dampen your day."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"So put your pride away,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>and be not dismayed."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"It's the life of a Man, </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>whom I think you know well."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"Listen with your heart,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>and see if it doesn't ring a bell."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"He was pure and holy.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>He does what is right.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>Why, He is the Master!</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>Full of love, truth, and light."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"For God so loved the world,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>He gave His only Begotten Son,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>Promising that if we would follow Him</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>The battle would be won."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"So long as we do,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>and if we strive to be,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>we can find rest in His kingdom,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>with glory of the highest degree."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"To have faith and believe</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>on His holy name,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>will give hope and power.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>Nothing close to shame."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"Having hope in the Lord,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>and trusting in Him,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>will surely make life brighter,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>rather than dim."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"To love freely and purely,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>and be filled with charity,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>will sing a sweet song,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>with words of serenity." </i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>To be virtuous in thought,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>in deed, and in action,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>will leave no room</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>for any distraction."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"To know Gods word,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>as clear as an image,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>will make you stronger than ever.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>For knowledge is the advantage."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"Being humble and grateful,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>knowing you're not the best,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>and following with your heart,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>will give you an 'A' to the test."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"To be patient and long suffering,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>in times of distress and woe,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>will surely make those times,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>quickly come and go."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"When diligent and hard working,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>and enduring to the end,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>with pierced hands outstretched,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>He Is happy to lend."</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>"To follow and obey,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>what thou has been told.</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>By the One up above,</i></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i>thou wilt be cherished as gold."</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116175" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116174" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116173">"When we follow this path,</i></div>
<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116172" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116171">our life won't be a disaster.</i></div>
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<i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116170">My son, It is the only way,</i></div>
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<i id="yui_3_16_0_1_1434342472587_116168">for it is the way of the Master."</i></div>
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<i>- Jacob Preciado</i></div>
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Selfie with a deer!</div>
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-1000935834173215352015-06-09T08:17:00.000-07:002015-06-09T10:08:43.617-07:00To bear thy cross. Week 39 <div style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; font-size: 17px;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hello friends and family.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Week was good, as in good things happened. But it was a hard one... As good as all the weeks have sounded, they're always hard. But lately I've been struggling a little bit I guess you could say. And that consists of feeling lots of amounts of stress, being mentally drained, and sometimes wondering if I can ever do this. The answer to that question is an unchangeable <b><i>no</i></b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I CANT do this. But through Christ, I can. I've come to know that I was never asked to do any of this. But more so called to be an instrument in it all. A cog in the system that helps all the others work. Realizing that has helped lift me up a little bit. But sometimes the burdens come. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This week we had the opportunity to meet with our friend "Small Gate", who is a 17 year old high school student. He's had some interest in religion and has accepted to hear our message. That's when we came over to his house, and taught him the Restoration of the Gospel through Joseph Smith. We taught him a great lesson, and he agreed to be baptized on the 28th if he finds that it's true for himself. I've never been so drained from teaching a lesson. It was so, incredibly hard to speak at all that day for some reason. The language has been catching up to me a little bit. Having a Japanese companion has helped it improve, but there are sometimes, where it is just too much for my brain to handle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The need to retain and take care of members, and investigators, and finding new ones has been a burden. Especially as my companion is the Branch President, we have extra tasks that we need to do. It's a blessing to get to know them all and be acquainted with them. They are good people and I love them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I really think about what has happened here in Shingu, the doors being shut, the Language barriers I have, the work load, and the burdens being placed upon me, I am extra grateful and am placed in awe and wonder at the account of the Atonement written in the bible. As I read about it and ponder the words written, I am humbled and filled with a sweet peace of love for the Savior and what He did. He suffered pains beyond measure in the Garden of Gethsemane, on behalf of all of our countless, and individual mistakes. I cannot even begin to fathom a pain so excruciating, as to make one bleed from every pore of the body like sweat. Thinking of it just hurts. Thinking of it tells me that He is the Son of God, and that only He could do it. Following such an experience, you could imagine the pain he felt, the mental drainage he faced, and the humility he felt. All because he loved us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">He then was arrested, and tried for...well, nothing. Because the ignorant chose not to believe, but rather crucify. After being placed before Pilate the governor, he asked the multitude, "what shall I do with this man?" And all that was answered was the cold </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">words of "crucify Him". Even though he didn't want to, he releases him to be executed by crucifixion. Despite what our Redeemer already went through the night before, he was put through some more pain, humiliation, and hatred through being whipped, beaten, mocked, and so on. They topped it off with a crown of thorns being placed on His holy head. He was then ordered, just like an any other crucifixion, to carry his cross up to the hill Calvary. Carrying the cross, is a difficult task to say the least. And after going through what he had already experienced, carrying the cross was nearly impossible for the Savior. Yet he endured, he moved, and did all he could until he literally could not do it anymore. He gave his all. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I'm in amazement at this specific portion of the scriptures. Especially when I read this phrase of "bearing his cross" or this scripture:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">17 And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha: (John <a href="x-apple-data-detectors://0" x-apple-data-detectors-result="0" x-apple-data-detectors-type="calendar-event" x-apple-data-detectors="true">19:17</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Despite all the pain, affliction, and hurt that Jesus Christ had went through, he continued on, and carried that cross for one reason: because he loves us. He died and suffered, because he loves us. He endured on through such affliction, because he loves us. He is literally the Son of God, and he holds the power to do anything to his will. He flipping created the world we stand on for crying out loud! With that power, he could have chosen to free himself from such pain, to ease the burden, to destroy everyone in that moment, but because he loves us, he endured to the end. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I don't know about you, but I'm so humbled, and bless to feel loved by someone so magnificent as him. Reading this has helped lift me up a little bit. Whenever I read the words "bear thy cross" I hear, "just keep going, you got this" or "endure all manner of affliction". </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We all have hard times in life. It's all apart of the program. To how we face them that makes the difference. When we turn to Christ, trust in him, and Bear up our crosses we can expect to be lifted up by him, and be strengthened in him, the word of life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">23 And now, my brethren, I desire that ye shall plant this word in your hearts, and as it beginneth to swell even so nourish it by your faith. And behold, it will become a tree, springing up in you unto everlasting life. And then may God grant unto you that your burdens may be light, through the joy of his Son. And even all this can ye do if ye will. Amen. (Alma 33:23)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know that Jesus is the Christ. I know that what he did for us, is because he loves us. As we turn to him in all our burdens and trials, as we abide in him, he will abide in us, and he will make us whole. I love my Savior. That we may be able to bear our crosses, and push through the hard times while trusting in the one who loves us perfectly, is my prayer for all of you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've been struggling a bit like I said, but that's not to say I'm not having a good time. I'm grateful for these times. I'm just being placed in his refining fire, being polished up here and there becoming a better man of God. I love all of you and am thankful for everyone of you who are fighting on and pressing through the hard times. God knows how you feel. And if you let him, he will be right there with you to ease the pain, and lift you up. I testify of that, in the name of Jesus the Christ, amen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Elder Preciado</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Went fishing with Tsunami on Monday! And brother Tsunami and I traded jackets haha. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;"> (I had to look closely, the fish are by his pocket ) :) lol</span></div>
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-36665553786030132722015-05-31T21:47:00.000-07:002015-05-31T21:47:48.796-07:00Then way of the Master Week 38<div id="yui_3_16_0_1_1433133132801_3236" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Long time no see!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It's good to be a missionary in Japan everyone. I'm thankful that I am here, and not in Mexico, or Holland, Russia, or wherever. The Lord has called and suffered me to be HERE, and I'm so happy He has chosen me to be. A good friend shared this scripture with me before they returned home, and I love the meaning it has for me now: </span></div>
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<b id="yui_3_16_0_1_1433133132801_3300"><span style="font-size: large;">"And now it came to pass that all this was done in Mormon, yea, by the waters of Mormon, in the forest that was near the waters of Mormon; yea, the place of Mormon, the waters of Mormon, the forest of Mormon, how beautiful are they to the eyes of them who there came to the knowledge of their Redeemer; yea, and how blessed are they, for they shall sing to his praise forever." (Mosiah <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" rel="nofollow" style="background: transparent; color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">18:30</a>)</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Just as she did, I love replacing the word Mormon with Japan. It gives me that deeper sense of love and appreciation for where I am in the world right now, and how happy I am and grateful for "them who came to the knowledge of their Redeemer" here. It's tough here. It's tough being a missionary in general. But I never would have been able to learn the things I know now, nor have met the people and made the friendships I now hold and cherish, if I weren't here on a mission, nor even in Japan. It's an undeserved blessing to have this opportunity. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="font-size: large;">This week was rough to say the least. But a valuable lesson was learned and reintegrated into my heart. It's something I felt I need to share with you all, on what the Lord has taught me. Or... Better yet, retaught to me. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here in Shingu, like I have shared previously, is a very rural, and isolated place. People are more so found in their homes here, or at or around them, farming, cleaning or doing various types of everyday tasks we all have in life. In Kyoto, that is the opposite. Everyone is out of the house at business, work, taking on the demands of the world and of city life. Being there for 4 1/2 months was a splendid time, stopping and talking to people on the streets, sitting and talking to old people at parks (I learned a lot from those people, especially Japanese!) and so on. I made some good memories there that I'll never forget with Elder Grossen. I haven't really knocked on the door of a house since the time I ever really even stepped off the plane here. Not since my first area back in Hashimoto. I've done a few homes in Kyoto, but no one was ever home. It's been a bit difficult getting back into the housing methods of finding after leaving such a concrete jungle as Kyoto. It's actually been very difficult, and that is for one simple reason:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have completely forgot what it feels like to get a door slammed in the face.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every day this week without fail, there has been a door slammed...or rather, SLID, (welcome to Japan) by an unhappy, busy, or just a simply not interested person, right in my face. I won't forget the one I received last Tuesday, when I knocked on the door of a beautiful big home, that was clearly cherished and well taken care of by this person. I knocked on the door, and waited. That's when a very sweet looking old lady came to the door, smiled big, and politely asked how she could help us. I replied," We are church volunteers for The Church of Jesus Christ of...." SLAM. As soon as she heard "Jesus Christ" the door was already on its way to being locked to any couple of young guys in white shirts and a black name tag. The least I can say about it, and really about every other door that was shut on us, is that it is a feeling that no one should feel. A feeling of utmost sadness and questioning. "What did I say?". "Did I offend them?". "Am I THAT bad looking?". </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Following that experience with this small, but very bold woman, I shook it off, put a smile back on my face and started down the road again. That's when the next door came flying shut, and the next, and the one after that, and after that, and so on. In fact, there was one day where EVERY door was shut on us! I soon found myself after every door, little by little, getting upset, and getting more angry. Every door approach affected the next. As I look back, my smile was not really present during the latter end of each day, or just the week in general. I was not happy. Not one bit. I felt bitterness grow, pride increase, discouragement build up, and the anger flow. I disliked every person that I contacted. I found myself pondering about the problems they have with their lives, wondering why in the world they didn't want to talk, or more so the need to SLAM the door. I began to lose a little desire to go out and work here and there, due to the fact that I would most likely encounter the same song on replay, another door or two to the face. I took my feelings and turned to the Lord and asked for help. "Why are people stubborn, why are they this, and that, and..." just complaining to the Lord about "their" problems.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">That's when I turned to my favorite scripture, in which I can count on to always try and make me feel better. It is found in the 1st epistle of John, chapter 4 , verse 18 of the New Testament. I in general just read the verse only. But I decided to read the verse, and then just continue reading the few remaining verses of the chapter. After reading verses 21 and 22. I felt nothing but emptiness about the things I had done. I had judged, hated upon, in some cases may have been a little rude, and short tempered with the people I had contacted, blaming them, and disliking them for the right to agency in which we all have, to choose whether to listen or to not listen. I had linked them to the idea of being "bad" people, and to bad lifestyles, etc. to justify my feelings. To make them "valid". Following this, I reinvested in a good, long prayer and talked with God about it, and asked for <i><b>forgiveness</b></i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now this isn't the greatest example I've experienced or seen, but the principles are learned. No matter how big, how small, how unfair, how anything is, forgiveness is number one. It is so important. It dawned greatly on me, and the feeling I received was powerful beyond measure. I am not perfect. Not in anything I do. I'm probably the farthest from it when it comes to perfection... We all make mistakes. We all have our problems. We all have our issues. Those who say they don't are liars. It is just pure fact as human beings. But that is why we have a Savior. One who sacrificed for all those mistakes. We are all on the same boat here, because we all mess up. The church, is a place where IMPERFECT people gather every week, to become better people through the saving ordinances of the sacrament, to seek that forgiveness from the Lord, and our Savior. When someone wrongs you, forgive and forget. In my case, when a door is slammed, smile and keep on trekkin'! </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">"Wherefore, I say unto you, that ye ought to forgive one another; for he that forgiveth not his brother his trespasses standeth condemned before the Lord; for there remaineth in him the greater sin." (Doctrine and Covenants 64:9)</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, Lucida Grande, sans-serif;">Holding such feelings grudgingly, seeking for revenge, and anger, or merely adding to the problem through bickering, back biting, and rudeness, does nothing but bring greater sorrow, it breaks the heart, and drives away the spirit. It merely adds to the conflict you encountered in the first place, and sends it to greater heights of contention. It allows the window to be opened to the Adversary to come in and take control of you. As I worked and worked this week, and held on to those thoughts and feelings, I had no effect in fulfilling my purpose as a missionary. I felt incomplete without that member of the God head with me. Doing so brought greater feelings of contention, and more unsuccessfulness at every door. It wasn't until I learned to just forgive, so to speak, the person for shutting the door, whether they shut it rudely or nicely, and to forget that ever happened. To say, "okay! Thank you so much for taking the time to listen for these few seconds, I hope you have a great day!" To show kindness to them, even when it may seem like they do not deserve it, after being so rude to me. We all know the rule. The rule is: "treat others the way you want to be treated", not "treat others the way you are treated".</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Having that change of heart wasn't easy for me. I'm not saying at all forgiving is an easy thing. It's pretty difficult. It never was meant to be easy. Just like this life we live. Sometimes, after effort in forgiving, the person still isn't changing or even willing to. That's okay. The Lord will see your faith, your efforts, and will bless you.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">"But behold I say unto you, love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them who despitefully use you and persecute you;" (3 Nephi <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" rel="nofollow" style="background: transparent; color: #196ad4; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-decoration: underline;">12:44</a>) </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"… When they have repented and come on their knees to ask forgiveness, most of us can forgive, but the Lord has required that we shall forgive even if they do not repent nor ask forgiveness of us ..." - Spencer W. Kimball. As we sincerely do so, I promise, they will come around.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I can't tell you how hard it was to keep that smile sometimes... How hard it is to really just let some things go, not just in this case, but in all cases that I have experienced throughout my life of friends wronging me, stealing, etc. It's extremely hard, but through the help of the Savior, we can be filled with his love, and have that inner peace we all so desire that can come through forgiveness. He is the "Light and Life of the world", our Master, our Exemplar. Following His example will lead us to eternal life just as the Lord promises us. In fact, forgiveness is a requirement for one to attain the grand blessing! The Savior in His life, was smitten upon, beaten, whipped, spat upon, ridiculed, and nailed to the cross, and slain, without one bit of anger or condemnation toward the men who committed such acts. Not even once. The Saviors dying words on the cross to the Father: "<u><i>forgive them</i></u>, for they know not what they do". </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Forgive and forget. It is the Lords way. He forgives us of our sins and our mistakes, and "remembers them no more". He loves us no matter what and bids us to follow him and his ways. Sometimes, the problem may not even be others. If we pause and look around for a moment, we may even identify that spirit of darkness and contention within ourselves, as I did within myself. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">"And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me."</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">"And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, <i><u>Lord, is it I?</u></i>" (Matthew 26:21-22)</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">As a reminder from President Uchtdorf, may we all ask ourselves that question! "Lord, is it I?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If it is so, we should fix it and make restitution, but importantly, forgive <u>ourselves</u> of the wronging. We should heed to the Saviors instruction to the women taken in adultery: "Go and sin no more".</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> That's something I feel like I have struggled with in my life sometimes, is when messing up, not forgiving myself of the wrongings I've done. Holding onto the past, in terms of your mistakes, eats you alive. The guilt, the shame, the sorrow, is not worth any of it. The Savior has forgiven you when you repent, he remembers them no more, as should we. Through trusting in the Lord, accepting his forgiveness, and through his help, and the help of others very dear to me, I've been able to forgive myself for things in the past, and have been able to soar deep into the eternal realms of His pure love. There is no greater feeling than being forgiving. There is a same feeling found in forgiving others. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Be the better man". In a sense it is pure doctrine. We always hear it. But do we actually do it? Are we TRULY being the better man? Or are we going through the motions of forgiveness, leaving half the heart out? Still thinking about, and feeling harshness? That is my challenge to you all! Not just this week, but always. That we may follow the example of Jesus Christ, and have the ability to love the way He did, to walk in His ways, and to forgive one another. The person whom has wronged you is not perfect, neither are you. Always remember that. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I am so grateful to have learned this even more. The importance of it is so great. From it, I know that I need to be even more forgiving to those around me, and to friends, and to family for anything and everything, but also to ask for that forgiveness from them. I have truly experienced the blessings of forgiveness throughout my life, and especially this last week through this simple yet powerful experience I've had here. Going into that next house with a new frame of mind made all the difference. There was love abounding within, and joy in what I do, and really in who I am and have become. The blessings are worth the price and difficulty of overcoming challenges, and forgiving others. Because I have experienced them, I seal it all with my testimony in the name of the One who was slain for us all. I know that Jesus Christ lives, and that he loves us all. I know that through his merits and mercy, we can obtain blessings and happiness too deep, and too pure to ever comprehend, when we choose to forgive others, and forgive ourselves. I am so grateful for Him and His atonement, that all of us, even the most broken and imperfect beings like myself, can be forgiven, and can become better. His atonement is infinite due to our infinite amount of mistakes. It is infinite because His love for us, is infinite. As members of this church, we have chosen to take His name upon us, and to follow the Lord and his teachings. Let us all strive to also be infinite in our own love for others, and for the Savior, but also infinite in forgiving others. It is the Lords way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know I'm going to have a good week this week. I love you all very much and am thankful for the emails sent to me! If I don't respond to you, I apologize. I do read them! It's very hard to get everyone, every time, but know that I think about you guys and hope you are all doing well. I usually do get all you guys. Because you're all important to me. Thank you so much for your kindness, support, and love! Now quit showing so much of it to me, and start showing it to the one whom I know you all may have thought about while reading this! The one whom you need to befriend once more. Whether that be your friend, family member, your children or your parents, dog, goldfish, whomever. We all have one person. Forgive, and forget. Don't let the evil and dark feelings transform you into what the Evil One wants you to be. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Love,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Elder Preciado</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; text-align: start;">Cabbage pancake. The most delicious thing I've eaten it's called okonomiyaki.</span></div>
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<br />Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-62266395415897490122015-05-25T10:42:00.002-07:002015-05-25T10:45:05.863-07:00Shingu- New Area Week 37<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Boy has
this week felt like FOREVER. Hello everyone. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Before I get into
anything, I gotta say that my companion is pretty freaking cool! Nitta </span><span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 16pt;">長老</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"> comes from Kumamoto,
Japan, which is over in the Fukuoka Mission area. He loves to eat anything and
everything, but especially likes sushi and yakiniku. His favorite color is
White, because it's the color of his all-time favorite drink, Calpis. His
favorite thing to do in the entire world is sleep! All I have to say is, I love
my companion he is a good guy! It's cool because his birthday is this transfer
on the 3rd of June. Be sure to wish him a happy birthday! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">So, I FINALLY arrived
here in my new area in Shingu. And HOLY COW. This place is like in the middle
of absolute nowhere. But that's what makes this an adventure and if you know
me, I LOVE adventures. Shingu is a VERY small coastal town, located at the very
bottom right corner, of the Japan Kobe Mission. This place is beautiful! It was
a long, long day traveling here. I woke up at about 5 AM last Thursday morning,
and sadly left Kyoto. When I originally arrived in Kyoto, I had weird feelings
about that area. I didn't want to be there at all at first, but I quickly grew
to love it dearly. Now it is but a memory of my mission... After leaving at 5
AM, I arrived in my new area at about 9:30 PM that night. Shingu is literally
out there. In fact, it is the most rural part of this mission. Only 3 trains a
day come here. It's THAT inaka (rural). It takes about 5 and a half hours and
100 bucks (both ways) to get to Zone Meetings and conferences. I love it. The
most famous thing about Shingu, is the Dolphins! You can see them, eat them,
and wear them etc. I haven't yet eaten some, but when I do, I will let you know
how that goes haha. I've only been here about two days and it's been a blast.
Especially with Nitta </span><span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 16pt;">長老</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">The church is small
here. It's a branch of a total of 7 members. My companion is the Branch
President here, and I'm one of his counselors. We both direct, manage, and
oversee the branch and help build up the Lord's kingdom in this part of His
vineyard. All I can say is, I've never been so grateful for the church, after
coming here. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Ever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">First off, I've been
told by the spirit of the Lord, that THIS, is where I am supposed to be. Last
Wednesday, the day before transfers, I was thinking a lot about the new area
and what it would be like. I was very nervous to say the least and asked
myself, "is that really where I'm going?" And "what was
president thinking when he decided I was going THERE?" I prayed fervently,
and told Heavenly Father that I was going to open up my scriptures at random,
and whatever I read was what he wanted to tell me, or wanted me to learn.
That's when I ended my prayer, and grabbed my book and popped it open. I landed
on 3rd Nephi chapter 16. I began reading...and soon felt the tears stroll down
my face. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">I have added a few
things in parentheses to help you understand what I was thinking and learned:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">1 And verily, verily, I
say unto you (Elder Preciado) that I have other sheep, which are not of this
land, neither of the land of Jerusalem (Kyoto), neither in any parts of that
land round about whither I have been to minister.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">2 For they of whom I
speak are they who have not as yet heard my (your) voice; neither have I (you)
at any time manifested myself (yourself) unto them.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">3 But I (you) have
received a commandment of the Father that I (you) shall go unto them, and that
they shall hear my (your) voice, and shall be numbered among my sheep, that
there may be one fold and one shepherd; therefore I go to show myself
(yourself) unto them.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">I felt so much power in
those words. This is where I am to be, and I am ready to find his lost sheep
here in Shingu. I'm so happy to be here. Going off that, God lives, he knows us
and our needs, and His word, the Book of Mormon is absolutely true. I know it
is. God himself told me, and I'm willing to go to the grave for it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">As I showed up to church
this week, I found myself filled with humility and full of awe and wonder at
the sight I was looking at. I sat up front looking amongst the few, but
faithful members of Shingu, and was humbled to the dust of the earth. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">I am so grateful for the
church. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Growing up, my family
and I have always seemed to be a part of big wards, and had lots of friends in
each of those. Those were a blessing to have. Every week we went to church
together, partook of the sacrament and went to Sunday school and so on. As I
look back, and as I see the example of these members, I regret the way I viewed
church when I was younger. I went to church, because my parents said it was
good. I went because if I didn't, my momma would grab me by the ear and pull me
out the door. When I was young, I viewed the sacred ordinance of the sacrament
as free bread and not enough water. (It's okay to make fun of me) My parents
taught me well, but it was through my agency that I guess I chose not to take
it so seriously. I never did anything wrong, I just never <u>fully</u> grasped
the importance of this true, and everlasting gospel, and the importance of
going to church. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">I can say for sure, that
my perspective has shifted even MORE, and am more in debt to the Lord for all
he has done for me, and provided us all with. The sacrament is NOT just free
bread, and not enough water... It is a symbol what Jesus Christ did for YOU,
for ME, for every single person who has, is, and ever will walk this earth. He
died for us, so that we can be forgiven of our countless mistakes, and be able
to return to the presence of the one and only Master. And He has given us a
way, through the sacrament, to be able to continually be forgiven, to start
fresh, and to become clean. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">I LOVE the people here already
SO much. I'm in debt to them, for their fearless example of faith in the Lord
Jesus Christ, and in the Eternal Father. These people come every week so that
they can grow, and can learn, and can spiritually uplift themselves. They don't
have much here, but they know that they have a place to go every Sunday, and
that they have someone in whom they can trust. Being here in this small branch
is amazing to me, and makes me very grateful for all I had growing up, and
especially now. It's sad to say that growing up I truly took for granted all
that has been given to me in terms of this gospel. Many undeserved blessings
have been bestowed upon me. My scriptures gathered dust rather than thoroughly
feasted upon and studied. As I have truly come to understand this gospel,
through my faith and prayers to Heavenly Father, going to church, studying his
word, I've had the opportunity to find true happiness. I'm in awe at what this
gospel has to offer us each and every day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="border-collapse: collapse; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 608px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
stand all amazed at the love Jesus offers me,</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Confused
at the grace that so fully he proffers me.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
tremble to know that for me he was crucified,</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That
for me, a sinner, he suffered, he bled and died.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh,
it is wonderful that he should care for me</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Enough
to die for me!</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh,
it is wonderful, wonderful to me!</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
marvel that he would descend from his throne divine</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">To
rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as mine,</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That
he should extend his great love unto such as I,</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sufficient
to own, to redeem, and to justify.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh,
it is wonderful that he should care for me</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Enough
to die for me!</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh,
it is wonderful, wonderful to me!</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"><div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
think of his hands pierced and bleeding to pay the debt!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Such
mercy, such love and devotion can I forget?</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">No,
no, I will praise and adore at the mercy seat,</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Until
at the glorified throne I kneel at his feet.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 12.0pt 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh,
it is wonderful that he should care for me</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Enough
to die for me!</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="padding: 0in 6.0pt 0in 0in;" valign="top"></td>
<td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 12.0pt; width: 420.75pt;" width="561"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12pt;">
<i><span style="font-family: "UICTFontTextStyleBody","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh,
it is wonderful, wonderful to me!<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">One of my favorite
hymns! I love this gospel and what it has done for me. I know that our father
in heaven lives. I know he loves us. I am so thankful and am never afraid to be
called one of his disciples. I know that his word is true, the Book of Mormon,
and am so thankful for the happiness I have found by abiding by its precepts. I
invite all to find the beauty and love for this gospel just as I have, in their
own special way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Oh it is wonderful,
wonderful to me </span><span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 16pt;">❤</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">️<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Hugs and love to you all!</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Elder Preciado</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes he is tall! Half Korean :)<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">In the video...He says long, because the pants I gave him are way too long on him,</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">but he still loves em.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">He says wow, because when I told him I was 19 he said "What!!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">Wooowwwww!" And then we say kyoudai at the end. Kyoudai means brother</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">in Japanese. Ex. Preciado kyoudai = Brother Preciado. We started</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">calling him Wysteria Kyoudai and he fell in love and just felt that it</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">was soooo cool.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">So all three jokes are put into one. Long, wow, kyoudai haha I will REALLY miss him!!</span></div>
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-15224276716163882852015-05-18T14:28:00.001-07:002015-05-18T16:43:40.261-07:00Michael is Back and he is transferring! Week 36<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I'm not surprised one bit on Sam’s call to Japan! For some reason,
I knew inside my heart that this is where he needed to be, I just knew he was
coming here. I had a dream that he came to the Kobe mission, and I got to train
him. I woke up and felt promptly in my heart that he would be coming to Japan.
And look at that! He's just next door to me :) I can pop a letter in the mail
and it will get there in a bout a day or so. I really believe this will
strengthen our relationship even more! Can’t wait!! Congrats Cuz!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">For me Andie’s birthday was yesterday, and I can say that I felt
her presence all day. I felt this warm sweet presence within myself and it
seemed that all my worries were taken away of my people here, and really just
anything! I love being a missionary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Yes
you heard it folks, Michael has resurrected, and he is back, "This is NOT
it", there is more. We had a very fun ward talent show this last Saturday!
It was so fun to see everyone's talents and share what they got. I myself got
to participate in one of the performances. Brother S LOVES Michael Jackson, and
I got to participate in his performance! SO FUN! Considering I love Michael and
his music, and have always listened to it growing up. I got to let out a side I
never knew I had.<br />
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So, sadly, that talent show was the last event I have in this area... IM
TRANSFERRING to a place in the middle of nowhere called Shingu. I'll have the
opportunity to share this experience with a Japanese Missionary named Elder
Nitta, my first Japanese companion. I'm so, so sad that I'm leaving this
wonderful ward here in Fushimi. I believe I have met my mission mother here,
Sister Diamond Well. She's the best! I still need to visit my mission Father,
Brother River of Light in Hashimoto. Maybe one day! I'm also sad to be leaving
Brother S... He's literally a brother... But I'm happy with his life and his
desire to serve a mission for the lord in the near future. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
have not too much else to report on. I'll paste a part of my letter to the
mission president on one thing I learned this week:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"Well this week was a good week I'd say. In other aspects it
was slow. Lately we have been struggling to find some new investigators. Which
I guess.. Is a good thing? At least right now because it gives us a better
chance to focus on our progressing investigators with baptismal dates. But then
again, it's hurts to get turned down. As I have really grown to love the people
here, I find myself in truly thinking about them and their welfare and
salvation. It hurts to walk up to a man, introduce the restored gospel, and
then have them say,"Keko desu". It's as if I hear the cries from
everyone's heart pleading for happiness...it's just a matter of following that
cry and finding the needy. We are working to find them President. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Other than that, we had the opportunity to meet with our highest
potential for baptism, Ootsuki 兄弟 this week! We
gave him the rundown and set up a plan on how we are going to reach his special
day. Scheduled lessons, and set forth the doctrine on what we are going to
teach him. He said," I'm still not sure, but if I find it's true, then I
will." I have full faith in the Lord that he will prepare this man’s
heart. I've also learned how important creating a plan is. Really, for
anything. I was checking out 3rd Nephi and came across this section in chapter
4 verse 23-29.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">23 And it came to pass that Zemnarihah did give command unto his
people that they should withdraw themselves from the siege, and march into the
furthermost parts of the land northward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">24 And now, Gidgiddoni being aware of their design, and knowing of
their weakness because of the want of food, and the great slaughter which had
been made among them, therefore he did send out his armies in the night-time,
and did cut off the way of their retreat, and did place his armies in the way
of their retreat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">25 And this did they do in the night-time, and got on their march
beyond the robbers, so that on the morrow, when the robbers began their march,
they were met by the armies of the Nephites both in their front and in their
rear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">26 And the robbers who were on the south were also cut off in
their places of retreat. And all these things were done by command of
Gidgiddoni.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">27 And there were many thousands who did yield themselves up
prisoners unto the Nephites, and the remainder of them were slain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">28 And their leader, Zemnarihah, was taken and hanged upon a tree,
yea, even upon the top thereof until he was dead. And when they had hanged him
until he was dead they did fell the tree to the earth, and did cry with a loud
voice, saying:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">29 May the Lord preserve his people in righteousness and in
holiness of heart, that they may cause to be felled to the earth all who shall
seek to slay them because of power and secret combinations, even as this man
hath been felled to the earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Gidgiddoni is a good man! He was aware of their design, he knew
the problem, he knew the person, etc. he set up his plan, and went for it. The
important thing was that he followed through with it! He didn't stop midway, or
half effort. He knew it, he trusted it, and he did it. He was able to meet the
robbers and was PREPARED and ready for them. He had all power over it, he knew
what was going on, and he was simply ready for it all. This is where I love
this quote, “stick to your task until it sticks to you, beginners are many but finishers
are few" - President Monson. He even was successful at killing the problem
at the root of it. He took out Zemnariah! I especially love verse 29. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"May the Lord preserve his people in righteousness, and in
holiness of heart..."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">As we really set forth a plan, whether that be with our
investigators in helping them be prepared for any temptation, problem, or just
getting them ready for baptism, whether it be a personal problem that we are
trying to overcome, or really anything, we can see the lords hand in our lives
in helping us get there so long as we trust in him, and are accountable to him.
I've experienced this first hand President! And seeing the same kind of thing
in the Book of Mormon really just strengthens my testimony, and love for the book
in general. I love learning new things like this."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">That's all for this week folks! I'll send some videos too of the
performance we were in! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I love you guys a lot. Thanks for the love and prayers I feel from
all of you. You're all the best!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Love, <br />
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Elder Preciado</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I am on the right side lol </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Yes, big mistake, cut my own hair :D</span>Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-84261676493270975622015-05-10T20:51:00.001-07:002015-05-18T14:31:09.107-07:00Happy Mothers Day to all you wonderful MOM's! Week 35<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Family and friends, </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">First off, Happy Mothers Day to all those mom's out there! Including my aunts and grandma's that </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">take such great care of me! Love you all!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">It was another week in the Japan Kobe Mission. Nothing super duper</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">awesome or crazy happened this week, to be honest. I had the</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">opportunity to visit a temple here in Kyoto! Called Kinkakujin. Made</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">of gold! Well...kind of. It's covered in gold foil stuff. But it's</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">real gold for stuff. Pretty cool though.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">It's been a little bit slow here in terms of the work, but life's good</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">as a missionary.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">My knee hurts a lot lately. The same problem I had, and from football.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Trekking a long and just trusting in God that this is what he wants me</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">to experience. I'll be fine.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I got to Skype my fam yesterday which was really cool! Everyone is</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">looking good. Especially my little sister! She's grown up to be a</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">pretty girl! Love you Addison.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I have not much else to report on. I'm just so thankful for the little</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">things that we all take for granted in this gospel. I love it so much,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">and what it's done for me.</span><br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I love all of you, I'm sorry this is short, but I gotta go!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Love, Jake</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Ps. I have some pictures for you all!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">My companion and I bought flowers to give to all the moms for Mothers day in the ward. They loved it!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJbC2iNBwAWEazt7WWDZzTt0erzocXfP8MzN2H6FUaToYAeCAw5oH4If13yrwg1LoxTpMS579edpcYQcfZoTFA6Ric4XVchpGqeXCcqdrk1pPPQtlyt2dHNSrOWsh7i1DBLVlgNoxCPfu/s1600/Jacob+Mothers+Day+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxJbC2iNBwAWEazt7WWDZzTt0erzocXfP8MzN2H6FUaToYAeCAw5oH4If13yrwg1LoxTpMS579edpcYQcfZoTFA6Ric4XVchpGqeXCcqdrk1pPPQtlyt2dHNSrOWsh7i1DBLVlgNoxCPfu/s640/Jacob+Mothers+Day+flower.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy Mother's Day Mom! I love you very much and don't forget that or worry about me. I am in the Lord's hands.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbL_oi7SbIfNisWYFVSTk-ncIIwMcvEALm_CeRIGXa2EFBc5-3J-Tl0jzGdBONFsQ5ncEogmidXz02x6ebqk4f56vSbYMJpMvFMMjotXIi8ix0rB2tBAMc_dK66SlHKXtw7nrg9kuaobp/s1600/Jacob+Pond.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbL_oi7SbIfNisWYFVSTk-ncIIwMcvEALm_CeRIGXa2EFBc5-3J-Tl0jzGdBONFsQ5ncEogmidXz02x6ebqk4f56vSbYMJpMvFMMjotXIi8ix0rB2tBAMc_dK66SlHKXtw7nrg9kuaobp/s640/Jacob+Pond.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWPOwUh6k8xrTo3QL4AV7jkHsGleKAKb6ZhgRxGmMNzxj_VNpNaEXjO9FJ0VDL9IH5HgD8_eruJSypC2l04MMu8-YwAH4mNUdvxBmCzMQPEYTESCPgkypE-sm3rrXdfOkeoCYKKqvXBGb/s1600/Jacob+Quesa+Dias.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisWPOwUh6k8xrTo3QL4AV7jkHsGleKAKb6ZhgRxGmMNzxj_VNpNaEXjO9FJ0VDL9IH5HgD8_eruJSypC2l04MMu8-YwAH4mNUdvxBmCzMQPEYTESCPgkypE-sm3rrXdfOkeoCYKKqvXBGb/s640/Jacob+Quesa+Dias.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
My Momma sent me flour Tortillas, and I made my first Quesa Dias in Japan! Oh how I MISS THIS!S<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWXwZvHf0UdrptjZxkIkFAKg9qCSQ4rym9rgjWByukko6r1OY6-mlKuzK2CVYe9lfkqQH1PC2aUYe5aJGKeeMLrHLfdne-jWVXKP_qZR-nOn6X_Dbap-tgEOdGP8QNZP1p5oaoWBzI44Xs/s1600/Jacob+Ralph+Smith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWXwZvHf0UdrptjZxkIkFAKg9qCSQ4rym9rgjWByukko6r1OY6-mlKuzK2CVYe9lfkqQH1PC2aUYe5aJGKeeMLrHLfdne-jWVXKP_qZR-nOn6X_Dbap-tgEOdGP8QNZP1p5oaoWBzI44Xs/s640/Jacob+Ralph+Smith.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Brother Ralph Smith came from my home ward to deliver a package from my parents!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jUTjTQ-B3kwYs0Br3ZhroqkAe-IOnMJNN7pkQY_iEOiIl40T9scZ-LIsmz4vsFVa994ld1pfJ8N51Wpnv-Pf1BOceMNfuNm5LBvQqjxeSoassA9zMl5hzlUaE-RgWDpIG1zZ9pIIPIK2/s1600/Jaocb+First+Vision.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0jUTjTQ-B3kwYs0Br3ZhroqkAe-IOnMJNN7pkQY_iEOiIl40T9scZ-LIsmz4vsFVa994ld1pfJ8N51Wpnv-Pf1BOceMNfuNm5LBvQqjxeSoassA9zMl5hzlUaE-RgWDpIG1zZ9pIIPIK2/s640/Jaocb+First+Vision.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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Wait, what is that beaming of light coming to me?</div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-54727768542425676342015-05-04T23:43:00.000-07:002015-05-04T23:44:11.740-07:00Holyyyy Coww! Week 34<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'MS Gothic';">皆さん</span><span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">,</span><span style="background: white; font-family: 'MS Gothic';">こんにちは</span><span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">How's
everyone doing? I'm doing jussst fine over here in Kyoto, Japan. This week was
a pretty...different week I have to say. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">Recently
have been really focusing on our investigators whom agreed to receive baptism
within the coming months. All I have to say is I'm really excited for what's in
store for this ward here in Fushimi, and the blessings in store for these
children of our Father in Heaven. We have been trying to focus on meeting them
this past week and have plans to get them ready for their special day. We have
been seeing Wysteria Meadow this past week more than anyone else, and my love
and compassion for him grows each and every day. His desire to follow the Lord,
and to do what's right, is remarkable and touches my heart. He's been telling
me how much he LOVES the Book of Mormon, and how he has already read over half
of it. He prays everyday on behalf of his sweet mother, and the things he
worries about. He's doing just fine and is progressing toward his big day on
the 28th of June. I love this man. Thank you all again for your support with
him and prayers, I know he feels them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">We
visited our friends the "Diamond Well"s this last Tuesday and helped
them out with there yard that they have been working on. It's beginning to look
really nice in my opinion. My buddy Big Hope was there too so I was very
thrilled with the opportunity to hang out with him, and become better friends
with him. Great service opportunity, and a workout opportunity ha.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">Last
Friday, once again, I had the opportunity to go on a companionship exchange
with my good friend, Elder Hall. It's ALWAYS a good time with him. I must say,
out of every missionary I have ever worked with here on my mission, working
with Elder Hall is one of the funnest, easiest, most uplifting experiences. The
spirit between us is strong, and it seems that when we are together, we REALLY
know how to get stuff done. And when we give what we got, stuff happens whether
that be a big thing, small, or in between. Both of our desires to just let the
Holy Spirit guide, and to let the Lord work his plan, allows us to see the
miracles, and be effective advocates of the truth in all we do, on HIS behalf,
and for HIS work. I've never worked better with another Elder before. (well besides Grossen, too) And I
must say how grateful I am for him and his example to me. When we were
companions in the MTC, we honestly were not the best of friends, nor really, as
a companionship either. Most of that was easily due to some of my personal
issues, my pride, and so forth. Through the atonement of our Savior, I've had
the opportunity to change into the missionary I am now. And I'm sure Elder Hall
has had the opportunity as well. Needless to say, through it all, we are best
of friends and both are so happy to be missionaries in this day and age. Love
you man, your the best. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">This
past week, I have been feeling my body beginning to shape back up and feel good
again little by little. Haha it is still the struggle sometimes, but it's been
good. Feeling this way, I guess has been a blessing. It has really taught me to
just be diligent, no matter what you feel like. I guess it has helped me learn
what's more important these days and has helped motivate me to get those things
done. I'm still being smart and am taking care of myself, no worries there ha.
I just have a desires to be like Christ! And handle and do things the way He
would do. Really, really happy though that the soreness is gone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">Throughout
my mission, I've really tried to become more like and emulate the example of
Him. I have done many different things and have done all I can to really
stretch myself and to grow in each of the Christ-like attributes. And for me,
there seems to be this pattern for achieving them... It appears that the Lord
likes to put me through maybe, if not the hardest, possible way to really
learn, and to grow into being like his Son. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">When
I first came to Kyoto, I was up and running ready to get straight to work in a
new area, with a fresh new transfer ahead of me. That's when I lasted about a
week with good health, and as you all know I became gravely ill. Through one
specific experience I had at the beginning of the illness, (which involved lots
of pains and throwing up, almost passing out, and just crazy things that happen
to sick people), I was able to learn and feel in complete depth, and in all
aspects, the eternal Love of our Father in Heaven. From this profound
experience, I was able to learn what it feels like, how to always be filled
with it, and how to really share it with those around me. He has taught me how
to be charitable through putting me through one of the worst sicknesses I've
experienced in pretty much my life. I don't think I've ever been that sick
before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">As I
went through through this trial with my beloved companion,(another one of my
all-time favorites!) Elder Grossen, I miraculously gained the ability to become
better. I was blessed to be full recovered. All my symptoms, sicknesses,
everything. Gone. But, my companion had not done so. He sadly continued on with
this sickness, and sadly STILL is as I speak... The process lasted about 3
months. And boy did I learn another great attribute. Patience. Being in the
apartment every day, just being left to wonder if one of my best friends would
ever get well again, along with the urge to just do what I'm called to do.
Least to say, it was a very difficult two transfers. Not only this, but back
during my second transfer in the mission, when I had that knee problem. Every
day was a struggle to simply get up and use the bathroom, to walk down the
street, to just stand. It required a lot of patience in letting my body heal,
in letting it strengthen again so that I could be up and about, but also
effective as I did so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">Can
you see the pattern? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">As I
talked about last week, I have been striving to grow in humility, and the
ability to be humble and willing to submit to all things necessary unto the the
Master, our Lord and Savior. And it was going very well I'd say. I felt and
found myself little by little every day, thinking more and more about the
Savior, and just having a stronger desire to do what HE would want me to do. I
have been praying humbly yet fervently to really be able to help myself really
grow in this Christ-like attribute. It wasn't that I had asked for anything
specific to happen, or something to occur, but just had the desire to really
grow and become a better missionary, and a representative of Jesus
Christ. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">He
answered me alright. And, in my eyes, He did in the WORST possible way I would
have NEVER even thought ONCE about...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">Upon
my return from the companionship exchange with Elder Hall, my companion and I
headed to the apartment due to the fact that I had not yet eaten lunch. I came
in ready to eat. I had begun defrosting some chicken, cutting, and preparing it
to cook. Amongst the midst of this, I thought, “Hey, some music would be
AWESOME right now." I walked over to where the DVD player was, and noticed
that it was not plugged in yet. As I looked at the outlet, I saw our 3+ outlet
head plug inside of it, but noticed that part of it looked a little funny. The
plastic shell looked lopsided to me. I thought, “that doesn't look right at
all." So I planned to fix it and reached down to take a look at it. When I
grabbed it, the plastic shell popped off and broke and I found myself
accidentally grabbing the exposed insides of the outlet head. That's when I
felt the surge of electricity shoot into my hand and through every part of my
body from head to toe. I did all I could to let go, but the electricity was
causing every muscle within my body to flex and merely just grip it that much
harder. After roughly about 5 seconds of holding on to it, I was able to break
free from it. <u>Everything</u> hurt,
A LOT, yet I could not necessarily feel anything. ESPECIALLY my hand. That's
when the outlet exploded and sparks flew everywhere around me. I stood there,
with my heart racing, overloaded with adrenaline, feeling like I was on cloud 9
trying to really comprehend everything that just happened. "Did...did that
just...happen?" and "Did I just...get electrocuted?" I indeed
was electrocuted. That's when I called the mission presidents wife and told her
everything that had just happened. She immediately sent a note to the Asia
North Area missionary doctor (pretty much my best friend after already talking
to him for about three months with Elder Grossen ha) telling him what was up.
He soon gave me a call and we talked about what had happened. During this time
I'm in the upmost amount of shock, practically in tears just trying to force my
body to calm down. We talked for a good bit, and I will never ever forget what
Doc said to me over the phone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">"Elder,
it's one of those things that just happened. There's nothing we can do to fix
anything, it just happened. But.........I am really....really happy that you
are okay. The voltage level in Japan is generally MUCH much lower than most
places in the world. Had this even happened anywhere else, you would be
seriously hurt, if not dead right now."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">As we
finished the phone call, and made sure everything was alright. I found myself
in tears, full of an unmeasurable amount of gratitude, and thanks. I immediately
went to my bed and began praying from the bottom of my heart, filled with the
upmost amount of humility possible, thanking Heavenly Father, that I am on a
mission for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints here in the <u>Japan</u> Kobe Mission. I have
never, in my entire life, been so grateful to be one of HIS anointed, doing
this work. For me it's not really the event that struck me, because I am
standing, moving, breathing, and faithfully living. I guess it's the nature of
the event. The "what-if" aspect of it all. The fact that it did
happen, I could care less to be honest, but the fact that it did, and here in
Japan, and not anywhere else, is what I am so very grateful for. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">With
this all being said, I have never ever been so filled with humility as I am
now. Even for the simple things, and the things we take for granted. I've
always been grateful for the things, and for the blessings that have been
bestowed upon me. But it now especially really hits home to me to see them all
before my eyes. The fact that we all have this beautiful world that we live in,
and the things created in thereof, is something I've never been so grateful
for. I've never been able to look at a simple tree, and say,"I am so happy
that this tree exists, and that it provides things necessary to help sustain
life here on earth." I especially have never been so grateful to be in the
presence of a body. To think about the things we can do, the fact that we can
see, and simply just breathe and do what we want according to our will.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">I've
never been so thankful for really anything before. Following this weird event,
I find myself really offering everything I have in every prayer to the man
above. Giving him my best of the best in terms of my praise and thanks unto
him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">Mosiah 2:20-21 of the Book of Mormon</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">20 I say unto you, my brethren, that if you should render all the thanks
and praise which your whole soul has power to possess, to that God who has
created you, and has kept and preserved you, and has caused that ye should rejoice,
and has granted that ye should live in peace one with another--</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">21 I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from
the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath,
that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even
supporting you from one moment to another--I say, if ye should serve him with
all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">From
this experience, I can say I have been brought down to the lowest I believe I
can possibly go. I feel I have truly learned what humility really is. Through
this all, I'm not mad, or sad at anything about what has happened. But, I'm
simply just filled with love, and am grateful for what I have, and have been
given, and now am ready to follow and do whatever the Master needs me to do,
considering he has all power. If we aren't following Him, if we are not doing
what's right, He has the power to anything according to His will, and can do
whatever he wants with us. If he really, really wanted to, he could send down
lightning and zap you to shreds. (Hahahahaha.....hahaha....ha...haaaaaaaaaaaa,
see what I did there?) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">I
know and testify that there is a God, and that he loves me, you, and everyone,
with all his heart. More than we can ALL imagine. With all the love that he
possesses for each and every one of us, he has a plan, and a way of doing
things for all of us. I know that (TRUST ME).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">The
way something may happen to you, or the way you are able to learn something is
most likely completely different from those around you. God knows best. He
knows, and will do what he sees best for you, and will execute that plan in his
way, and in his timing. Why? Because he loves you more than your possibility to
ever love anything. The best, and most important thing to do is just to trust,
and follow, whatever it is that happens whether it be good, bad, or ugly. As we
do so, we all have the ability, through His grace and mercy, to become HIS
unprofitable servants. As of right now, I really have no intentions to NOT
listen to Him. I, and we, are absolutely NOTHING compared to Him and His glory.
When we just humble ourselves, and realize this, and follow Him, we can expect
to see countless blessings bestowed upon us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Segoe UI, sans-serif;">As a
representative of Him, I testify of that whole heartily. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">At
this time, know that I am 100% OKAY. My right hand has just about gained
complete feeling back. It has basically been feeling asleep/numb, it tingles
and hurts every now and then, but meh, it's not bad. Could have been worse.
That's the best way to describe it. I have been already beginning to work
again. Along with that, know that I love being a missionary, ESPECIALLY here in
the Japan Kobe Mission. With all that I have learned thus far, and with all the
humility within, I have never had more of a desire in my entire life, to follow
Jesus Christ, and <b>Walk With Him</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">Moses 6:34 of the Pearl of Great Price</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">34 Behold my Spirit is upon you, wherefore all thy words will I justify;
and the mountains shall flee before you, and the rivers shall turn from their
course; and thou shalt abide in me, and I in you; therefore <u>walk with
me.</u></span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">I love you ALL!</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif;">Elder Preciado</span></i></div>
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-82879135866777972202015-04-27T18:03:00.001-07:002015-04-27T22:04:07.752-07:00The Book of Jacob II Week 33<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My
beloved brethren. I, Elder Jacob Matthew Preciado, now write my epistle unto
you, my friends and family living amongst the Americas, as I reside upon the
isles of the sea.<br />
<br />
And it came to pass that I, Elder Preciado, did render all my strength of mind and
of heart to the Lord God, all the week long, and I did fall on my face and pass
out after planning at 9:30 PM.<br />
<br />
And it came to pass that as I arose the next morning, it appeared that I was
bound by the pains of my body from all the work of the previous day. For I
moved, and I ached, and my body was exceedingly sore. And great was the
soreness thereof.<br />
<br />
<br />
.....okay people, I know you enjoyed that don't lie, some of you are still
laughing and smiling inside. But I will leave it at that!<br />
<br />
(Now transitioning to words of the modern day)<br />
<br />
Haha so.....<br />
<br />
This week was a great one! What I said above is correct. I've just been doing
all I can to serve my best and it's really been catching up to me. Physically,
this week was HARD!! Every morning is a dread waking up due to the soreness of
muscles in every part of my body and in muscles I didn't even know existed. I
pass out after planning almost every night. Of course after brushing my teeth
and writing in my journal haha. But despite all that, it’s been really fun!<br />
<br />
We had the opportunity this week to meet with Wysteria Meadow! Pretty special
considering he never has time and is always with his sweet mother. But! He
found time and made time and asked us to have a lesson with him at the church.
We had a powerful lesson with him, teaching him about God's love, and eternal
life, and how he can find a more fulfilling, and better sense of happiness in
this life, and in the life to come. He loved it a lot I could tell! That's when
I asked him if he wanted to be baptized :) and he accepted the invitation and
now has a date to make those special covenants with our Father in Heaven. His
love, his humbleness, his happiness despite the rough times, and just his smile
is what makes me so happy. I love this man. Him and I now have an inside joke
that we always act out every time we meet. He gets a huge kick out of it! In
fact, he's so happy that he laughs at almost anything. I was carrying a banana
while walking down the street with him, and I accidentally dropped it. Then he
just burst into tears laughing! Telling me to be careful not to slip on it and
what not. I didn't quite understand what was so funny about it but I went a
long and was just happy that HE was happy and having fun! Thank you everyone
for your love and support for him, he is SOO grateful and I am too!<br />
<br />
Speaking of baptisms, there was a baptism here in Fushimi just yesterday! One
of the sister's investigators was baptized yesterday morning. It was a great
service! Miracles are happening all the time here in Japan. All I gotta say is,
it's great to be a part of them :)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nothing
SUPER DUPER cool happened this week other than that lesson, and just working
extra hard for the Lord and trying to make the most of my time here as a
missionary. It's been quite the experience, and one of the things I love that I
have learned is <i>humility. </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Throughout
my mission, I have been able to experience a variety of different feelings and
experiences of which I know will always be remembered. But it's the hard
experiences of which I'm extra grateful for. The ones that have stretched me and pulled me in every way
possible causing pain, and hurt, and sorrow. The times where I have felt so
cold, and empty, and felt ,"is this worth it?" And, "will this
ever end?".<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My
faith has been tried many times here, and guess what. I'M STILL STANDING STRONG.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Because
it was during those kinds of times and through many others, that I was able to
learn this principle of humility. When I was able to really feel lower than the
dust of the earth, get down on my knees and say a heartfelt prayer to our
father in heaven. During those moments of prayer, is when I felt so peaceful,
so humble, and just so loved. I could really just look up into the night sky
with eyes full of tears and know that I am loved, and to know that what I am
doing is right, and that I need to just trust in him. In my instances for me,
feeling that humility is an amazing feeling. It's a time where I can really
just reflect and think about our Savior and what he did. It allows me to take a
look around at the world around me and see the special, yet so taken for
granted, things that God has created and provided for us all. I feel like there
is never enough praise in my heart for the blessings I have received for they
are far greater than we all deserve. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I was
just sharing this with my dad, but one of my favorite personal phrases I say to
myself is<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"神様を恐れなさい" ( you all can pop that into google
translate if ya want ) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But
it's my favorite, clearly it's Japanese, but it's said, "kamisama o osore
nasai" which means,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"Fear
God". When I used to hear that phrase "fear God", I used to
think, why be scared of him? But it took on a whole new meaning to me as I have
grown up and have become a missionary. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Haha
I still do take it literally considering he can throw down a lightning bolt at
me any time he wants since he's GOD. But, as we learned from Elder Bednar this
last conference, fearing God is keeping his commandments. It's simply following
him. It's LOVING him. As it says in my favorite scripture of ALL time, Perfect
love casters out all fear. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For
me having that humility is what strengthens me. It's what helps me realize that
I can't do this alone and that I need help. Shoot I could use an order of
divine power any time of the day! I'm sure we all could. I guess my only
challenge to you all this week Is to be more thoughtful of your father in
heaven, and his son, Jesus Christ, this week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Alma 37:37</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>37 Counsel with the Lord in all thy doings, and he will direct thee for
good; yea, when thou liest down at night lie down unto the Lord, that he may
watch over you in your sleep; and when thou risest in the morning let thy heart
be full of thanks unto God; and if ye do these things, ye shall be lifted up at
the last day.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Give
praise to him always. Have and cherish those special moments during prayer with
him. My beautiful Mom apparently gave an awesome talk to the girl’s camp girls
this year about prayer! You rock mom! I know if you do these things, your faith
and testimony in him will grow, and you feel that sense of love and peace from
on high. I can testify of that. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Have
a good week! For a personal activity, I challenge you all to also perhaps make
a list of all the blessings in your life, your personal blessings and how
they've blessed you. I promise it will be a great personal experience for
you! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Humility
is an attribute of our Savior. As you strive for it, you will become more like
him as you try and live like him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I
love you all!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">P.S. Did I tell you <span style="line-height: 107%;">B</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">rother Grossen is so freakin cool!! He's a beast, I love him and he is so funny! Sooo fun seeing him and grateful for all that he provided us with!!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">P.S.S. Please write me, I love it!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2666664123535px; text-align: start;">The basketball picture is of Brother Grossens company that he works with.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKHyoa7IzQfwFxXtqMmHwP1_I0RMe1PYBrC2aQA_hlzMIo1DUVjn9R4h_hzRSTtCe_XnPykeLAuSOdRfpNwX-7aOCbDEU4hWUBHXkBD8qKLIBvMCeSh5pIpQsWfBcfCwOQ5Ftc1z8FnSa/s1600/image2+(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKHyoa7IzQfwFxXtqMmHwP1_I0RMe1PYBrC2aQA_hlzMIo1DUVjn9R4h_hzRSTtCe_XnPykeLAuSOdRfpNwX-7aOCbDEU4hWUBHXkBD8qKLIBvMCeSh5pIpQsWfBcfCwOQ5Ftc1z8FnSa/s1600/image2+(5).JPG" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2666664123535px; text-align: start;">In the picture of me and the Japanese guy on the rocks, his name is "Big Hope"</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL90wMOVXfi6shcBgErfpEKrxaKNQMGa36sJNEqRZ7il2TqLC19qxRz342HgircbpTc3-hB4_FIMy0qSyeIi9geClRs6Ams9hvpy88aEj2go5Zpwm5170uzfEsBcvtLweh-who2ojNAVkW/s1600/image3+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL90wMOVXfi6shcBgErfpEKrxaKNQMGa36sJNEqRZ7il2TqLC19qxRz342HgircbpTc3-hB4_FIMy0qSyeIi9geClRs6Ams9hvpy88aEj2go5Zpwm5170uzfEsBcvtLweh-who2ojNAVkW/s1600/image3+(2).JPG" height="478" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; line-height: 14.2666664123535px; text-align: start;">Well and the last one you can guess :) Disney is huge here</span></div>
<br />Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-21519247727101859792015-04-20T15:37:00.001-07:002015-04-20T15:39:46.712-07:00Awesome week, but boy am I tired! Week 32<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Hey
there people.<br />
<br />
It's been a goooood week in the Japan Kobe Mission. Lots of great things and
miracles happening! It was a first full week back in the work (Meaning normal
schedule everyday and being out and about) in about three months now. And all I
have to say is...<br />
<br />
IM FREAKIN TIRED<br />
<br />
I forgot how tiring it can be sometimes, but there's nothing like it that's for
sure 😊<br />
I wanna thank all of you for showing so much love not only to me, but to my
friend Wysteria Meadow. He is doing great right now. He has some food and is
trekking along. Thanks so much for all your help and love! It's just what this
man has been needing.<br />
<br />
Had the opportunity to go on a companionship exchange this week with Elder
Gass. A good friend of mine here in the mission. Together we had a lot of fun
finding the elect and making mission memories together! Recently we have found
the Nintendo HQ's. It's in my area here in Kyoto! So...Elder Gass and I on our
companionship exchange decided to go proselyting there trying to talk to the
workers, asking about video games and finding someway to connect it to the
gospel.<br />
<br />
For example:<br />
"Hey! Don't you have fun when you play Nintendo video games? Aren't you
HAPPY? Me too! But I'm happy when I go to church! Please come! It's WAY cooler
than Nintendo games."<br />
<br />
We ended up only getting to actually do that to one guy...and he denied us.
That booger.<br />
Oh well. I hope his life is full of fun and happiness!<br />
<br />
During that exchange we had a good lesson with Salt River. We set a new
Baptismal Date with him for the 7th of June. He's been doing great, just been
really busy with his Job.<br />
<br />
The last few days or so we're the best part if the week. We transformed almost
our entire teaching pool, into investigators with a baptismal date! Which now
means there are 4 of gods children who have accepted the invitation to be
baptized within the coming months. I've never been so happy. I've had faith,
lots of faith for a long time that I would begin to see miracles. But despite
that faith, I've had challenges, and hardships, dropped investigators,
emotional hurricanes, and just life smacking me down lower than the dust of the
earth. But the lord has been with me through it all though. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Mosiah
11:22 of the Book of Mormon <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">22 And it shall come to pass that they shall know that I am the Lord
their God, and am a jealous God, visiting the iniquities of my people.</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">He
has been there to lift me up and has heard my prayers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Mosiah
27:14 of the Book of Mormon <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">14 And again, the angel said: Behold, the Lord hath heard the prayers of
his people, and also the prayers of his servant, Alma, who is thy father; for
he has prayed with much faith concerning thee that thou mightest be brought to
the knowledge of the truth; therefore, for this purpose have I come to convince
thee of the power and authority of God, that the prayers of his servants might
be answered according to their faith.</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
have been longing for someone to be baptized here, not just so I could
say,"I have a baptism" but so that I could so, whoever that person
may be, experience a true, and real sense of happiness in their life, to know
that they have a purpose and are worth something no matter who they are, and so
that they can know that there is a living, Father in Heaven, he loves them and
is worth EVERYTHING to Him. That's all I want. That's why I am here in Japan.
Is to tell people these eternal truths, and help them find what they, and many
others, have been missing in their lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Like
I said, the lord has heard my prayers ever since in began my mission to find
his children in whom are ready to receive these blessings. And within the last
days he made a miracle happen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">For
me, it provides a sense of joy, but also it provides me another opportunity to
testify. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">GOD
HEARS AND LISTENS TO OUR PRAYERS.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">There
is no such thing as a wrong, a bad, too short, too long, weird, or UNHEARD
prayer. Such talk is blasphemy. As we just read that verse up above, we know
that God listens to us, and he helps us always. But an important thing to
remember in all of it, is to have faith in Him. Have the faith to know that
your prayer, is being heard. Have the faith to also know that it will be
answered. That's having faith in God. It's following Him, and having the faith
that he is there. Most importantly, having faith in God, also means having
faith in His timing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">It's
been nearly a year now since I've began my mission, and it's been nothing of
what I expected. But, I've had the faith that I'd be able to fulfill my purpose
on His behalf, and that is to bring others unto CHRIST, by helping them receive
the restored gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and his atonement,
repentance, baptism, receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost and enduring to the
end. I've always held that within. And I know and testify that he HAS seen my
faith, and my heard my prayers, and has now prepared his children, in his
time, to receive baptism. The blessings are pouring from heaven and I feel his
love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I'm
happy. I'm happy because I feel gods love. Because I'm trying to be like Jesus
Christ, and to emulate his example. I don't know how well I'm doing haha. I'm
not perfect, but I'm perfect in one thing, and that's my effort, and my trying
to be like him. I just feel blessed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
love all of you, I'm tired, :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Segoe UI, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">Elder Preciado</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Segoe UI, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">Mom insert...He has NEVER taken piano lessons! Amazing the things he comes up with! :)</span></span></div>
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Elder Gass<br />
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-82824235154118113382015-04-12T22:36:00.002-07:002015-04-12T22:59:44.845-07:00Brand New Day........ Week 31<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">Hello friends and family!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">This
week I want to talk about a good friend of mine. His name is..."Mr. I
Propose" considering he LOVES to say,"I propose" and to voice
his opinion ALL THE TIME. Mr. I Propose is a very smart fella. He is one of my
English class students. Every Wednesday here in Fushimi we teach a free English
class as part of our service as missionaries. Mr. I Propose has taught English
on various levels from elementary to university level English. He sure loves to
show that kind of stuff off all the time, always making comments about his vast
knowledge of history of basically anything you can think of, using words I'm
pretty sure my great grandmother would never use, and just energetic all the time.
When I first met this man, I HATED/DISLIKE </span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">(ok my mom always told me I can never hate, so dislike is a better word.) him. I thought he was so obnoxious, rude, weird, and so forth. He always interrupts when I'm teaching to share something completely unrelated to the topic. Drives me CRAZY! I noticed that every week, my feelings worsened little by little towards this man. I would leave class with a headache all the time trying to deal with him and keep class in order. He just made everything so hard. But I must say, he is my FAVORITE man in that class out of all of them. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">I'll never forget the day A few weeks ago that I got down on my knees right before class started and pleaded to God to allow me to love Mr. I Propose. I walked in to class, and it was the worst class yet. At first I thought, "Heavenly Father what the heck! I asked you to help me out!". I evaluated the situation. And I realized something. I was focusing too much on trying to get this guy to be quiet, focusing on changing him and his actions. That, is basically impossible if you ask me (trust me I tried it already on him) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">The next week I thought in preparation for it, "How can I make this a better day at class?" And I realized I can't focus on the things I can't control. Those things are in a group of things I "worry" about. I can't do anything about them but worry about them. In this case, I was so worried about trying to change Mr. I Propose and his actions. But what I SHOULD do is focus on my circle of influence. The things I can affect and can control, and so on. For me, I realized I should be emulating my calling. As a missionary, I am a representative of Jesus Christ. What better way to represent Him than to BE like Him? One who is filled with charity, and pure love, not selective love, or hatred, or contention and harsh feelings. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">I walked into class, with the right frame of mind, and just loved the crap out of this man. I focused on what I COULD control, which was a my actions, my feelings, and did EVERY single thing possible to show him some love. For me, it made it a little better that day. For him, seemed normal to me from what I observed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">Being the smart guy that I am, I realized, "hey, when I truly try and do what I'm called to do, and truly strive to be like Jesus Christ, my feelings get better" <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">So I continued this process every week. I've never prayed so strongly before an English class every week just to be nice to someone. Every week. I kept going. Doing ALL I could to make it a good day for me, and to make the guy feel loved. It never changed him, he still always says his remarks and what not, but what it did change, was ME. My feelings and actions toward this man became more natural, more real, and more pure. I was able to love him no matter what he did. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">He came up to me last Wednesday after class and said to me in such a sweet humble voice:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">"Excuse me, Mr. Elder Preciado. I have to tell you something"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">(He pulls me to the corner)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">"Sure! How can I help you!?" I said<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">He says, "You are so big! And strong, and colossal. But you have a very, very warm heart. Yessss yes and a very warm spirit about you. You are so nice! I feel good talking to you! Thank you very much. I'll see you next week, I can't wait to come back and feel good again!"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">I was crying inside with how touched I was. That was when I realized, my prayer was answered, and that I love Mr. I Propose. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">I have learned a lot from this man, not only by his constant stating of facts and history, but because of the personal experience I was able to have from him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">There were three simple yet powerful principles I learned from this. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">1. God hears our prayers. He is there to help us and guide us in HIS own way. He allowed me to have such an experience to learn and grow from. He knew the desire of my heart and helped me achieve it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">2. Don't focus on things you can't control. I couldn't do anything to change this man. I still haven't! But the one thing I COULD do was change myself. This is where the whole, "we need to change ourselves first, if we want others to change" principle comes into play. Mr. I Propose changed in a sense, from being a student, to being a friend. I don't know where we would be right now had I not tried focusing on things I could control. When we worry about such things, we just make ourselves miserable. It is like trying to go after or date someone who is WAY out of your league! You are just continually breaking your own heart in a sense! When you do the things you CAN do, "date people you can date", you will find more happiness in yourself. It's a silly analogy haha, but it works.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">3. Charity is a spiritual gift. I always knew it was, but I guess this was another testimony of that haha. In order to obtain any spiritual gifts, We gotta work for it! Work is always required on our part. Loving someone you once hated is not easy, but I had to work every week, through constant prayer, patience, and meekness in order to obtain the love I have for my now good friend Mr. I Propose. He's a great friend! And I look forward to seeing this old fart every week now! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">I love my mission for the things I learn like this! And also getting to meet people like this too. My mission has been very awesome, life changing, difficult, hard, backbreaking, but ultimately rewarding. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><u><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">I am a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and I freakin love what I do.</span></u></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">Love you all!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 15pt;">Elder Preciado</span></div>
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Mommy, I think I need some new shoes :)<br />
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<br />Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-48178896716738282122015-04-06T13:08:00.000-07:002015-04-06T14:55:03.040-07:00Because of Him!! Happy Easter!! Week 30<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 14pt;">皆さん、こんにちは。</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 14pt;">元気ですか?私は大丈夫です。</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 14pt;">先週はちょっと大変ですね。先週について話しましょう。</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'MS Mincho'; font-size: 14pt;">最初は英語にスウィチしましょ</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">😬<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">There
weren’t a whole lot of things that went on really this week. However, they are
things I will always remember as a part of my mission.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Tuesday
was a pretty decent day. There is a family in the ward who is trying to redo
their yard. Like a COMPLETE makeover. Therefore they called us Elders up and
asked if we could help. Well...sadly, if really I could help. My companion can
do things, but only so much before he can't do anything. Poor guy did the best
he could in helping with the work but had to sit out most of it and do the
small things. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I on
the other hand had a wonderful opportunity to get a full body workout from
around 11 o'clock that morning to 5:30 that night. We
figured since we haven't been able to do much, my companion would try and feel
better at their house so I could give them a hand. I had the opportunity of
doing MANY different things during that service project, which consisted of
digging and shoveling dirt across the yard, breaking ground and rocks with pick
axes, and lifting and moving boulders, and huge bags of gravel and such. You
already know I got freakin jacked during it all. My man Brother H brought his
truck with a crane mounted on it so that we could move the big boulders to the
places that we wanted them. At one point during the process, one of the
boulders fell off the crane and in the middle of the yard. Brother H was
FREAKING out hard core, not knowing what he was going to do to move it because
once it's off the crane, it's off and is
really hard to reconnect it apparently. I stood watching him and another guy
try and pick it up, or roll it, but for some reason they couldn't do it. I
decided to have mercy on the man and save him from his worries. I asked him, "Hey!
Where do you want this rock?" (with the biggest smile on my face). He
looked at me puzzled, and says,"well...I WAS trying to put it there
but..." Before he could finish I cut him off by squatting down and lifting
this massive rock myself and moving it to the place they wanted it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Never,
ever, EVER have I seen such priceless faces in my LIFE! I couldn't help but see
everyone in attendance with dropped jaws. It was as if all them had just
witnessed the First Vision for themselves hahaha. I was surprised I still had
that kind of strength in me considering I haven't had a real work out in
months. I guess all those days and weeks of never skipping leg day really payed
off. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Lesson
learned here is: DONT SKIP LEG DAY<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Wednesday
was a pretty rough day...considering we got a call from the mission president
notifying my companion that he will be returning home this Friday due to his
illness. Wow... All I can say is that it
hurts a lot. To see him leave, Elder Grossen is a true disciple of Jesus
Christ. His heart and his actions are pure and set him apart from the average
missionary. He out of ANYONE in the mission I know does NOT deserve this. One
thing I love about my companion, is how willing and accepting he is of the
Lords will at this time. I'll be honest if it were me, I'd be upset, kicking
and screaming doing all I can to stay. But my companion? ..Whole different
story. When we received the call, all I heard was,"yes. Mhm”. Okay I
understand,“Will do president." Tears were shed of course, but his
humbleness, and willingness to be obedient is what makes him special. He does
what's right, not just because he has to, but because he wants to. He emulates
the Savior not only in WHAT he does, but WHY he does it. THAT has been one of
the biggest blessings to see him as an example. Elder Grossen, when you read
this my brother, know I love you! I want you to look out for and continue to
find opportunities to serve those you will soon meet again, and those for the
first time. There's a reason why the Lord is allowing this to happen. Find it!
Love you buddy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Thursday
made up for Wednesday a little bit. We had the opportunity to go with one of
our investigators, "Mr. Salt River" to the </span><span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 14pt;">桃山</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> (Momoyama) Castle. Mr. Salt River is one of my
favorite people. He's super duper cool and loves us missionaries. He has a date
to baptized on the 3rd of May. We went to the castle so that we could
just be more of a friend to him. …and because Japanese castles are frickin
sick. It was a good time walking around, seeing ancient things of Japan,
looking at beautiful cherry blossom trees, or in Japanese called, </span><span style="font-family: 'MS Mincho'; font-size: 14pt;">さくら</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">🌸 (Sakura). My man Brother S came with
us as well. He and my companion talked for a while, regarding our phone call
that we received the previous day. During that time, it left me to talk with
Salt River. He and I sat down on a bench and talked for about an hour. It was
probably the longest, most head-hurting, most fun, spiritual conversation I've
had in a long time. It gave me the opportunity to bear testimony of Jesus
Christ and His gospel, about why I'm here in Japan, and even to teach him a
little bit more of the gospel. I solo taught Salt River a one hour lesson on
the bench. I say head-hurting, because I really had to work hard at my
Japanese. I'm not the BEST, but I'm getting there I feel like. I know that from
what I was able to teach him, it created an increase desire for him to follow
Jesus Christ. It went really ,really well. My companion surprisingly was able
to endure all the walking from it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Which
brings us to Sunday! Easter! Sunday was a special day for me. All week, I have
been feeling so very overwhelmed, humbled, and my heart has been very soft. My
mission president last Wednesday not only talked to my companion, but I had the
opportunity to talk to him over the phone as well. We talked about my
companion, and some upcoming things that he wants me to prepare for. I could
nothing but feel inadequate at first. I went into the bathroom and splashed
some cold water in my face after that call, and just looked at myself for a
little bit in the mirror. It was as if I saw every weakness within me. It
humbled me. It made me want to be better. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I had
been longing all week to just feel His love through partaking of the sacrament,
starting over the week on a new note and being a great missionary. I prayed
hard that morning to be able to have a good day at church and to feel my
burdens lightened. Heavenly Father blessed me well. It was a new family's first
day in the ward, and they had a baby boy of about 1 year, and he was all over
the place. I had the opportunity to play with this boy, make him happy, let him
play with my name tag, my watch, my ring, really anything he could get his
hands on of mine haha. If any of you know me, I have a big heart for little
children </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">☺</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">️ I was able to feel an
overwhelming amount of love from this little boy in showing so much interest in
me. Not only that, but also from the thanks from his mother who was struggling
to keep him quiet during sacrament. I've never had a young baby boy leave me in
such tears as this one did. Tears of joy, of happiness, and of peace. It
reminds me of one of my favorite scriptures. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Alma 26:37</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">"Now
my brethren, we see that God is mindful of every people, whatsoever land they
may be in; yea, he numbereth his people, and his bowels of mercy are over all
the earth. Now this is my joy, and my great thanksgiving; yea, and I will give
thanks unto my God forever. Amen."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">God
was clearly mindful of my needs during this time. Through this little boy, he
was able to help me feel love, and happiness. It's what picked me up again. Not
only was he mindful of me, but he was mindful of this little boy's mother. She
was struggling a little bit to take care of this boy and keep him reverent for
sacrament meeting. He used me to help this women out in helping her be at
comfort, be happy that her baby boy is happy and being quiet with the things he
was playing with, and it probably gave her a chance to actually listen to
sacrament for once in a while. It was a simple, everyday thing that occurs all
the time in this world, but it made the BIGGEST difference for me, and for this
mother.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Because
of this experience I had at church, I just had an increased amount of love for
those around me, and a stronger desire to do something good that day. Whether
that was for my companion, or whatever. My companion has been beginning to pack
recently for his departure. This right here is a perfect example of why my
companion is so awesome. As he was packing, he felt a prompting. He pulled out
one of his suits and said,"I'm gonna give this suit to our friend
"Mr. Wisteria Meadow" <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">(I'm
using the direct translations of these Japanese names, that's why I have Salt
River, and now Wisteria Meadow)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Wisteria
Meadow is the man we met earlier in my time here in Fushimi. The man I gave my
church clothes, the man we payed to go to the hospital to see his mother. We
got the suit and walked over to his apartment just around the corner. I loved
this man so much already, but from this time we visited him, I've never had so
much compassion for him. He came outside, and basically stumbled around like a
drunk man. My first thought was that he actually was drunk, but I was shortly
proven otherwise. As I have explained earlier, this man's mother is very very
sick in the hospital, and is literally on the edge. The hospital bill for his
mom is VERY expensive, but it's to keep her alive. Wisteria Meadow is putting
every he owns to his moms life. He has nearly nothing. Not even food really. He
eats one day, and fasts for two so that he can span his food out until next pay
day. It explains his stumbling and weariness. He walks 2 hours one way to get
to the hospital everyday to visit his mom. He is the most humble, pure hearted
man I've ever met. And the bravest too. He believes he was told by the spirit
to keep his mom alive, which is why he is going through all this. I've never
seen such a smile of pure happiness before. I'm sure he hasn't owned a suit for
the longest time in his life, and to see him so thankful to get it made him the
happiest man in the world. My companion and I looked at each other, and
said,"wait here!" <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">We
ran back to our apartment and grabbed all the food we could find and threw it
in a box for him and brought it over. To see the look on his face again was
just the first face times ten. I truly believe that God prompted my companion
to give him that suit for a reason. Had we not brought it over, and followed
the prompting, we may would have never known of what he was going through. He
may have never gotten any food. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">This
here is another testament to God's love for us, and of this scripture. He uses
his faithful servants and loved ones to bless others. He truly is mindful of
everyone and their needs, their worries, and hardships. I'm just so humbled and
blessed to be used as one of His instruments in doing His work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Our
Father in Heaven works in many mysterious ways in order to bring about His
special purposes. I testify and know that this scripture is true. I see and
experience this almost everyday here in the mission. I know, with ALL my heart
that God loves each and every single one of us. No matter who you are, whom you
were, whether you are white, black, orange, purple, or green, he loves you. <i>"for he maketh his sun to rise on the
evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the
unjust." </i>(Matthew 5:45). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Take
a moment, and think of a time or an experience where you have felt the greatest
amount of love in any way. Take that experience, and multiply it by infinity.
THAT, my dear brothers and sisters, is how much God loves you, me, and all of
us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,
that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting
life." (John 3:16). </span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">He sent his Son, Jesus Christ, that we may be
able to have eternal life and live again with Him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Jesus
Christ came to this earth, and lived an absolutely perfect, sinless life. He
walked the earth, wrought miracles among men, taught with love, and had
compassion for all people. He loved them even as the Father did. He came here
for a reason. And that was to fulfill the will of the Father. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Because
of his love for his Father, and every one of us, he performed the greatest
single act that changed humanity for all of time and eternity. He suffered the
absolute most exquisite pain possible in the Garden of Gethsemane, bleeding
from every pore in his body, taking upon Himself every pain, sin, and sorrow,
because He loves us. He suffered through and took the hatred, the mocking, the
spitting, because He loves us. He payed the price, and was whipped, nailed, and
hung on the cross and was crucified, because He loves us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Though
He died upon the cross, and was layed to rest in his tomb, He rose again on the
third day, and lives. I KNOW that with all solidity of heart. Thousands of
years ago from just yesterday, was the day our Lord and Savior rose
again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">He
lives. And because He lives, and because of what He did for us, we all
have the chance to repent of our sins, and start over again. We have the chance
to be forgiven, and we have the ability to receive eternal life. Through the
power of his atoning sacrifice, we can receive the power and ability to
overcome trial, and temptation, and any hardship. Those truly mounted upon
Christ and his rock of salvation cannot be immobilized. Not any amount of
trial, hardship, sin, absolutely nothing can. Not even DEATH. He descended
below ALL things. He literally has experienced every single pain, sorrow, sin, and
feeling that you, and I, and EVERYONE have, am, and are yet to experience in
your life here on this earth. Because he rose again, we too will rise again and
be resurrected. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
KNOW that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">This
last week was hard in some ways for me like I said. I was able to feel and see
my personal weaknesses, and feel meek, and humbled. But because of what Jesus
Christ did, we all, including myself, can become better saints, and followers
of Jesus Christ, no matter what faith we may believe in. Which brings me to one
of my favorite scriptures found in the Book of Mormon:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ether 12:27</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">"And
if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men
weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that
humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have
faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">This
scripture has never hit so home for me as it did this last week. It was purely
manifest to me in my own life. As we learn to humble ourselves, and come unto
Christ and partake of his atoning sacrifice, we can change, and become better,
become that much stronger and that much of a better person. His sacrifice has
the ability to change even the weakest and most broken things of this world
like myself, into strong faithful saints and followers of Him. I firmly and
solemnly testify as one of HIS representatives that this is true. I'm thankful
for the wonderful Easter Sunday the Lord blessed me with this year and for the
opportunity I had on this day to remember my Savior and what He did for
us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
pray that each of you will remember always to partake of His love and atoning
sacrifice. None of us are perfect, especially me, but that's why He did it. He
knows we aren't, so He gave us a way to try and become perfect, to try and
become like Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">As
you carry on about your lives through this week, I would invite you to think
about the words that you all had the opportunity to hear this last weekend
during General Conference. If you didn't get the chance, I invite you to find
them online and read them! Whether you are a member of this church or not, I
know that something you read, or watch will be something you need to
hear. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
love Japan. I love what I do. I love my Father in Heaven and His Son, Jesus
Christ. I'm so thankful for what He did for me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">It's
definitely a great day to be a missionary in the Japan Kobe Mission</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">☺</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">️<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">We
just received transfer announcements and it looks like I'll be staying in
Fushimi once more. </span><span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 14pt;">✌</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">️<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
love you everybody. Have a great week this week and until next time,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Elder
Preciado</span></div>
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Our Bishop<br />
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Wysteria meadow<br />
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The food we gave our friend</div>
<o:p></o:p>Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-34001895009623448052015-03-29T21:45:00.002-07:002015-03-30T07:15:08.251-07:00Elder Hall!!!! Week 29<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Hello friends and family, what's good!!!!!<br />
<br />
This week, I had a pretty good week I am not going to lie. It was very long in
many ways, but a memorable week that's for sure. Some pretty cool things
happened this week too.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> I
got to see my mission president this week and just talk to him for a little bit
after a meeting we had. We were able to receive our latest tool in the work of
the Lord in that meeting. The iPad! The things and blessings it brings to our
proselyting efforts have jumped tremendously. We truly are in a digital
age. We all need to be true disciples in
this digital age, being masters rather than slaves of technology. It was good
to see President Welch, I love him like my best friend! He even gave me and my
companion a ride home! (That usually doesn't happen, that's why it's
cool) </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14pt;">J</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">My
companion is still sick believe it or not... We don't know what's wrong with him.
They've been trying and trying to figure it out, but they can't seem to pin
point the problem. I've been able to learn a lot of patience from it, and my
testimony of the Lord and HIS work, has grown ten fold. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Keep
praying for him as I know he feels it and it helps!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Adding
to that, I had one of the most memorable experiences of my mission on Saturday.
I had the opportunity to go out on a companion change with the neighboring area
last Friday. And I had the opportunity to become companions again with my MTC
companion, Elder Hall! ( THAT’S ALSO REALLY COOL! Because THAT NEVER happens) I switched spots and was able to spend the night over there at his
place and then had the opportunity to work in his area, WITH HIM, the next day.
We had one of the most memorable nights just up all night talking and catching
up with each other, cracking old jokes, and telling about each other’s life
again. The next day we woke up as usual, worked out, got ready for study,
studied, and then began our day of working. It was about 11
o'clock when we headed out and started walking down the street. I was just
in the weirdest mood/feeling, a good feeling, seeing that my very first
companion was by my side again! We both told each other how weird it was that
we were in JAPAN and not the MTC working together. When in the midst of the
conversation I felt that I needed to stop us and pray before we began working.
So I did so. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
offered up a very specific, fervent, yet humble prayer asking for Heavenly
Father's love, and guidance in taking us EXACTLY where to go, what to say and
that our spirits would touch the life of this person that he would guide us to.
I prayed also for the ability to speak Japanese comfortably. The both of us have never been
the BEST at it. I felt scared that we wouldn't understand anyone as we headed
out, but after praying, I was calmed and ready.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">We
hadn't even walked ten feet when the both of us said," that's a cool
apartment building." We had both locked eyes on the same one within a
matter of seconds. We looked at each other, smiled, and started heading for the
apartment to our right! As we started approaching the entrance, we both locked
eyes on the same apartment, the one closest to us, and started heading for it
without even saying anything to each other yet. We rang the doorbell and waited
for a little bit. We waited for the person to come in through the speaker on
the doorbell thingy, but no one answered. Then, a woman came outside! (In Japan they never come
outside first, they always talk through the intercom). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">She
rudely looked at us and scoffed, and said,"</span><span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 14pt;">なにか</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">!"
(Na-ni ka) which is basically the equivalent of saying,"what the freak do
you want scum!" Or something along those lines.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">So
what did I do? I gave her the BIGGEST smile I possibly could ever make and told
her I'm a missionary for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. She
changed in that instant. She put a little smile on her face too and began
asking questions. Long story short, we taught an hour lesson on her doorstep. Elder
Hall and I were able to ask her inspired questions and just let her feel the
love of God as we spoke. God loosed our tongues and spoke through us! She went
from a "what the freak do you want", to a "I can't wait to see
you at church!"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Through
all the talking we had with her, I know it was someone I was supposed to meet.
Everything she had struggles with, were things I've experienced before. She
talked about how she used to live in Hashimoto before, and that was my first
area in the mission. Through what Elder Hall and I shared with her, we know
that we touched her heart. We both walked away almost in tears of joy,
astounded at each other for what we had just done! All through Gods help. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">My testimony
of his work, and the power of prayer has been strengthened so much. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I've
had a pretty good week! I hope that you all did too! Don't forget to use the
power of prayer in your daily lives. It will bless you…and help my companion, I know that! Also, work and learn to be masters of technology. If
you let it be YOUR master, life will not be as good. I promise you that! That's the best
way to put it. Be smart, be true, and be real with yourself always!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Love
youuuuuuuuuuuuuuu peeeppsssss Happy Easter, and enjoy Conference and hearing
from our prophet!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogNKfH9njBvHK-CJD-yT2NcsIs9-m_Nxm4UdI8PYOEgUMh-A-yuAcUggpGGDVgnhV0t8mwutvBp2FLBz2NORC8R_UduZ4YTSRIOUAYZxWQaTEXRV9pwrUevThyphenhyphen6-7I8a1RYHk9QMCPX-C/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogNKfH9njBvHK-CJD-yT2NcsIs9-m_Nxm4UdI8PYOEgUMh-A-yuAcUggpGGDVgnhV0t8mwutvBp2FLBz2NORC8R_UduZ4YTSRIOUAYZxWQaTEXRV9pwrUevThyphenhyphen6-7I8a1RYHk9QMCPX-C/s1600/image1.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a>Elder Hall!</div>
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This ones for Dad and Josh!!!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Segoe UI, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;">Elder Preciado</span></span></div>
Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-69126179646024306262015-03-22T22:25:00.000-07:002015-03-29T21:45:40.110-07:00 Greatttt Weeek です Week 28<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">What’s up folks! </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Dad I first wanted you to know that I have never been so grateful to be a missionary
in the Japan Kobe Mission. My time is running away it feels like... in three
short months a year will be gone leaving only one more left... It motivates me
to be better and endure to the end! I had the
opportunity to meet Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles last Friday in a conference we had with him. He changed my life. I was
able to take myself out of my shoes and take a big look at myself, and see the
change within me. And boy is it a beautiful sight dad... To know I have even
more time to change and be better, is amazing! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I worry sometimes about a lot of things, but I
know that everything will always work out as Gordon B Hinckley said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
love you dad, So much!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Ill be honest right now this will be a lot
shorter than normal! I wanted to take a lot of time talking to President Welch,
my mission president and share with him special things and how I am doing!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">First off I want to tell you all how great it
is to be a missionary in the Japan Kobe Mission! It’s ALWAYS great to be a
missionary in the Japan Kobe Mission. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">This week was a memorable one :) I had the
opportunity to learn a lot of new things from different people. 3 of whom I‘d
like to share about! The first is Elder Gass! My uncle. ( He is my trainers
best friend, therefore, uncle)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I had the opportunity to go on a companion
exchange with him this week! It was freaking fun. I actually got to ride a bike
again! I got to be out on the streets! I got to do the Lords work! And it was
with Elder Gass! We had a ton of fun heading out making memories and striving
to find the elect. I love that man! he taught me a lot on the exchange!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Second Person is my buddy Brother
"S". (Ill just call him brother S). He is my freaking best friend. in
fact, no, He is my brother! I got to go on splits with him! He recently has
decided to serve a mission very soon so it was a good experience for the both
of us! I got to go out and work while he got to help himself prepare. He has
always been there for me when I need it. (Mom this is the man you became
friends with on Facebook) I freakin love this guy! And i hope He knows it. He
is one of the most Christ like people I’ve met here. His Example helps me out
in being a better missionary here. Mom he is going to America soon, and he
wants to see you! MAKE IT HAPPEN!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">And the third person, one of my favorite people
to hear from always, is Elder Russell M. Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve
Apostles. I had the opportunity to meet with him in a special conference he
held with our mission this last Friday. I testify and sustain him as a true and
living prophet, seer, and revelator, in these latter days. The things he shared
with us changed my life! He basically answered every prayer and concern I had basically
within the first 5 minutes of his talk. The basis of what he talked about, was
just to love God. Love him enough to keep His commandments, to do his will, to
trust in him, to follow him always. I actually sat front row of the chapel and
was able to just look into his loving eyes the entire time. The moments we made
eye contact and smiled at each other brought love to me from him, God, the
first presidency, from everywhere! I love Elder Nelson!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I hope you all have a good week!! I freakin
love all of you and thank you for everything you have all done for me. Please
continue those prayers on Elder Grossen’s behalf as he still needs them
greatly! He is being tested for many new things and tests sent to the
states..so hope they help him figure out what he has so he can feel better…sure
hate seeing him suffer. Love him so much!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Till next week, Peace!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Soon to be Elder, my friend Brother S :)<br />
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Elder Gass<br />
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These are pictures from an area called Kiyomizudera, a temple place here in Kyoto<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Elder Preciado<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-28924980063198757742015-03-15T23:15:00.000-07:002015-03-16T00:00:34.928-07:00The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Week 27<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Friends and Family,</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Wow....<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">A
week that will always be in my heart forever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">This
week, was probably one of the most difficult ones I’ve ever experienced here on
my mission, on so many different levels. Emotionally, I’ve never been so down.
One of the lowest times its been for me in a while. I'm so grieved for my
companion who is still down with a sickness. I love him and I want him to be
better! He will be seeing doctors in Kobe this week by the way, so I’ll be
doing a little traveling this coming week. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Anyways,
I’ve been really sad this week because my companion is sick, and because he is
sick, we can really can’t do much and I know how much we BOTH want to serve. It affected me a lot. I wasn't myself. I felt
like I was letting down my father in Heaven in every way possible. (Im trying
to give you a glimpse of what I actually felt!) I don’t mean to be dramatic,
but it was just hard.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Wednesday
night was one of the roughest. I was up all night, with a million thoughts in
my head. When I was six, as most of you know, I had my little sister Andie pass
away, and thoughts of memories of her, and all the good times we had demolished
me that night. I had no sleep. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Then
it came Saturday. We had a lesson planned for 7 o clock. I’ll be honest...with
all I was feeling I didn't really want to go. It was one of the times in my
life like I said where I’ve never felt so much grief, for many different
things. As soon as we made it to the church, and waited for our investigator to
show up, he didn’t come. I was even sadder. Thinking,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">"
Heavenly Father, please...let something great happen..."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">As
soon as I said that prayer in my heart, everything changed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">As
soon as I ended, we got a message saying, "I’ll be there very soon".
I was humbled and picked myself back up. I prayed by myself in the other room
that Heavenly Father would speak for me, that He would let me know what I need
to say to change this man’s life. I also prayed hard that I would be able to
say it. (meaning that he would bless me with the ability to speak well and
meaningful in Japanese) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Finally
our friend showed up and we began our lesson. The Lord answered my prayer and
blessed more than I had even asked for. Never before, in my entire mission, or
life, have I ever felt so much joy in a span of about 1 hour. My body was
lifted high, and my soul rejoiced and I was filled with compassion and love and
just wanted to sing it to the whole world. Never before have ever understood a
man the way i did.( Not just in Japanese, but his heart) The spirit whispered
to me everything he was saying as if a microphone was in my head. I think it’s
safe to say, that like Ammon, I knew the thoughts and intentions of his heart
because of the Spirit of God which was in me. I was able to bear strong
testimony, out of all the love I possessed to our friend, in the most
comfortable, most fluent Japanese possible. My companion and I were not feeling
very good. (I might have gotten a cold!!! Danget…but don’t worry I am ok!) But
that didn't stop us. We continued to teach with that power and authority on
high, teaching, and testifying of eternal truths. Through it all my companion
and I felt the need to ask this man to receive baptism. When we asked, he
committed. That moment my joy was magnified tenfold. The gift of tongues was
purely manifested to me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">My
mission has been the hardest thing to date in my life. I still have more coming
but that's okay, I’m so ready for it! I’ve gone through rough things, been at
low points just like I was this week, but it’s only made me stronger.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Missions
are said to be 99% of hardships and difficulty and pain. (SO TRUE) and the rest
of that, is known as pure joy. I’ve seen a lot of good things happen throughout
it all, but have seen many bad as well. I’ve always felt that 99% percent,
especially here in Japan since these people’s hearts are rocks when it comes to
religion! But this week, I felt that 1%. I was able to feel that pure joy
through all that hardship. And somehow, SOMEHOW, That 1% makes up for all the
rest. Because in that joy, I feel Love, compassion, peace, and anything and
everything else that brings true, eternal joy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">All
of this made me that much more grateful for the Savior. For all he has done for
me, and how he took care of me in all the hard times. I may have felt low, but
Christ descended below ALL things. Never forget he will be there to lift you
up. He literally bled his Love for you, because he wants EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US
to experience happiness. Not momentary happiness, but true, real, eternal, and
pure Happiness!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Sunday,
I had the opportunity to speak in sacrament meeting. Everyone loved my talk
about missionary work! I hope it got them all pumped up to be strong members
:) The rest of church was amazing. The day before I was feeling so much
love and thankfulness for my savior, and then all of church, we had lessons about
the savior and His life!! He is amazing!! After the service, an 8 year old boy
in the ward was getting baptized! He comes from a half family. His Dad is from
Peru and his Mom is Japanese. They’re so awesome!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The
baptismal service, to be honest, was one of the greatest baptismal services I’ve
ever attended. (Along with Destiny’s) It was for a boy who began growing up
going to church, but to me that didn’t matter. The spirit was so very strong in
all the talks, musical numbers, in all of it. The best part for me was when the
boy, stepped into the water. I was asked to be a witness for the ordinance so I
saw it up nice and close. As soon as I saw his foot touch the water, the spirit
overcame me. I instantly began shedding tears of joy, and love for this young
boy. He was creating the covenant and entering into the Lords kingdom. All week
I learned of the Savior, what he did, why we need him, and how this is his
church. The spirit bore witness to me of everything I had learned. It was a
feeling and a moment, that I know I will never forget.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> I
know that, This is The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
have nothing more to share at this time other than my simple testimony of the
things I know to be true. And I testify as a representative of Him, that this
is the only true and living Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know
that it was established in these latter days through the Lords prophet Joseph
smith. Heavenly Father has a plan for us all, and that plan is designed so that
we can return to Him and live in eternal peace and happiness in the next life.
I know that this is HIS work, and that I have been called of Him to testify and
teach and bring the world His truth. Oh how grateful I am for this opportunity
to serve Him... I know that God, and His Son, Jesus Christ, Loves and knows
every single one of you. He weeps with you when you are struggling and rejoices
when you do what’s right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
testify and know of these things to be true, for they were manifest to me
through His Holy Spirit. I solemnly bare, in all sincerity of heart, in the
name of Jesus the Christ, Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
love all of you very much. This week is going to be great! Elder Russell M.
Nelson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles is coming to speak to us on Friday.
I’m so happy and excited to hear from a prophet of god! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
love you all!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Love,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Elder
Preciado<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: large;">あいしてますよ</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Soooo bummed I broke my Ocorana! :(</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Segoe UI, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"> A drawing I was asked to draw. I sure love drawing!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Segoe UI, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 18.6666660308838px;"> The baptism</span></span></div>
Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-49950675430830890332015-03-11T09:01:00.001-07:002015-03-11T09:01:27.925-07:00God is Love week 26<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Hello friends and family,</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">This
week was a quite special week for me. It was one of those times on my mission
that I know I will always remember.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">To
start out, Monday we met with our friend whom I gave my church clothes to.
(again we are asked not to disclose names of people for certain reasons) He is
having a rough time in his life. He has a poor job and puts all his money
towards his sick mother in the hospital in whom may pass on very soon. The
Doctors gave him the decision on whether to let her live or not and he doesn't
know what to do. We met Monday and shared D&C 9 with him. As he inquires of
the Lord, and truly ponders about it, he has the power to receive his own
revelation. I've never loved that man more than I do now. He left in tears and
the biggest amount of faith I've ever seen in such a small Japanese man.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Thursday
was another great day as well. We have been inside because my companion still
isn't doing well, but had a lesson planned at 5 o`clock with a man who came to
church the Sunday before. We met with him, asked him why hes coming to church
what his beliefs are etc. He explained the feelings he has when he comes. He
feels like his life problems are washed away when he attends. We taught him the
Plan of Salvation due to some things that have occurred in his life, and taught
him the order of prayer and how it can bless his life. All I can say is the
joy, happiness, and love I felt for this man after hearing him offer up his
first ever prayer to his Father in Heaven. It was a tender moment for all of us
to behold HIS joy after doing so.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Friday
was zone training meeting. Learned some good stuff from the zone leaders about
prayer and using it in our everyday work. Later that night we attended a ward
ping pong night. You already know I freakin owned everyone! (sike, come on they're
Japanese) It was great to build relationships with the ward and work closer with
them! Elder Grossen was wrecked after that which basically immobilize us the
entire next day :( I hate seeing him suffer :/<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Therefore,
Saturday we were inside all day as my companion was sleeping trying to get
better. I studied the heck out of the scriptures. before I share what I
learned, Sunday was a great day. Sunday morning, I woke up feeling very meek,
and lowly in heart. I prayed hard and fervent to be filled with the love of the
Savior and to have a good day at church that day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Boy
did he answer my prayer...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">My
companion was assigned to speak that day so he beasted it out and went to
church. And he gave one of the most powerful talks on the atonement I`ve ever
felt. What I felt coming off of that talk, was Gods love. Never before have I
ever been filled with such immense love from on high before. It was overwhelming
to the point where I was crying so hard in sacrament meeting. I suddenly saw
everyone around me for who they are, and loved them with everything I
possessed. Some members can be a little interesting at times, but I saw through
it all. I saw them for who they are, the way Christ sees all his children. I
felt this sudden urge to just want to hug everyone and share that love I was
feeling within. To tell everyone from my heart the things I know to be true in
the gospel, and my true feelings and love for the people around me, my
companion, my Savior, my family, everyone. We were able to talk to an
investigator and help him feel our love after church, he accepted the
invitation to be baptized :) Pray he can get things figured out and find a date
very soon! right now its planned for his birthday in July :)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">This
brings me to one of the great things I learned through my study. And it is
about the simple yet ever so powerful principle of love. Id like you to go grab
your scriptures, pull it up on your smart phone, do what ever you gotta do to
get these words before your eyes~<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Please
turn to section 11 of the Doctrine and Covenants and find verse 12, and read
that for a minute.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">I
came to realize that this scripture, is true love. True love is something that
comes from the God head. Its something that does not just happen. Its given to
us through our work and efforts to obtain such a power of love. When we come to
the point where we are filled with this love, or as the scripture
states,"and this is my Spirit", its that power that inspires and
motivates us to do the things stated in the verse, "That which leadeth to
good- yea, to do justly to walk humbly, to judge righteously...". Or in
other words, its what leads us to choose the right. GOD. IS. LOVE. When we come
unto Him, and feel of His love, we then begin to do these things and come
closer to Him so long as we follow that inspiration from the Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">When
one shares that love with those around him, others will feel that love and
desire to do the same. When our love is pure and true and eternal, like that of
Jesus Christ, others will feel that, shoot, they will SEE it in your
countenance. When one feels the Spirit, they feel of Gods love. As you show
that love purely from the heart to those around you, it will then bring the
both of you, whether it be a husband and wife, parent to child, friend to
friend, missionary to investigator, it will bring the both of you closer to our
Father in Heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">One
may ask," What is true love? How can I show it?"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">True
love is Charity. Charity is the pure love of Christ. Charity is a Spiritual
Gift. Its something one has to work for through constant prayer and work on
their part to obtain it. "knowledge puffeth up, but Charity edifieth"
(1 Cor. 8:1). Someone may be so sly with their words, they may know everything,
they may make you seem like something is good, they might be a person or the
great missionary who knows this gospel, but without charity, it'll never change
or touch that person. The person is NOTHING without it. The word edify means to
build up, to strengthen, to unify, etc. That love will inspire to choose the
right! Perfect example! It will EDIFY them. One who has BOTH, has the
advantage, for Knowledge is the advantage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"> Charity
is essentially loving others the way Christ did. He suffered the Atonement,
"he laid down his life for his friends", did the impossible. Why?
Because He loves us. He was patient and long suffering to those around Him. He
understood them. He knew them. He was forgiving and didn't allow His love to
seize at faults and differences in others or their mistakes. He truly and
purely loved them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">As
Mormon states in his epistle to his son Moroni," if ye have not charity,
ye are nothing"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Pray
always to be filled with His Spirit, with His matchless love. Pray for the gift
of charity. Let love be your motive in all you do and ye are bound to see
marvelous things in your life. As you apply and strive to love and view things
and people with an eye of love, your relationships with those loved ones, with
friends, and family will strengthen, You will begin to feel more peace and
happiness in your life, and most of all, you will know that you are a child of
God, and that He loves you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Remember
to always share that love. The best kind of missionary work is not sharing all
you know about the gospel, its simply showing true love from the heart (bearing
testimony and sharing your love, or your spirit from God to others). I've seen
it first hand in helping others come unto Christ here in Japan. I exhort you to
do what you can to be doing these things. All us on this earth are children of
God, and everyone deserves to feel that love. Us Saints have the
"knowledge", we know the gospel. But when we have Charity, we can
edify those around us and help them partake of the goodness of this gospel, and
to feel the love they need to to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">This
week I challenge you all to think of a way you can show love for someone else.
Your wife, husband, friend, brother, sister, etc. Show some love and give some
service. I promise as you do, you will feel Gods love! and you will be greatly
blessed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">I
love all of you and hope you have a great week. Keep sending prayers Elder Grossens way!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Until
next time!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoe6419uizwPoe3jiZIDSOyYgu0vjti1IQ6KBMjD2-Ou7rhVDlSbODwemrs8OWUuzBYHkuBphRsJ-q75bK_G62MkAzLVHXHDOx433HvFZ1B1uDmBNcL8OQNBRndwcWWMeeUQXhAEl7yBQa/s1600/IMG_2407.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoe6419uizwPoe3jiZIDSOyYgu0vjti1IQ6KBMjD2-Ou7rhVDlSbODwemrs8OWUuzBYHkuBphRsJ-q75bK_G62MkAzLVHXHDOx433HvFZ1B1uDmBNcL8OQNBRndwcWWMeeUQXhAEl7yBQa/s1600/IMG_2407.JPG" height="640" width="358" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; text-align: start;">My chinese friend Cho</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLSJnMj40bHuKg3VoPzde34bKf_ZfZyvymK75pkO9ziE41-7kCabSQgDGtl2dC5TASwEyw9o7wV_wElE68FE-96iKUTJdUMrJQyHbviUCJz1JpPg6mX6cYFN64G9OBhS_FWwtZPBM8Rri/s1600/IMG_2400.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguLSJnMj40bHuKg3VoPzde34bKf_ZfZyvymK75pkO9ziE41-7kCabSQgDGtl2dC5TASwEyw9o7wV_wElE68FE-96iKUTJdUMrJQyHbviUCJz1JpPg6mX6cYFN64G9OBhS_FWwtZPBM8Rri/s1600/IMG_2400.JPG" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">At kamogawa river after zone training meeting, famous Ancient samurai execution site</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimqjkvJt1-4ZWn1oxrmbTsqdVhKK1YB11LkvSccdYM1T8PhBbmQIqtFJWJ-FvhB7E7Ed4g9tx0FicVTktXJZNqNwAqA1WEWJk5MqHaygtCYiwa0xl7qAP6_E0wubOlltzdHM1AFxb4SOzE/s1600/IMG_2397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimqjkvJt1-4ZWn1oxrmbTsqdVhKK1YB11LkvSccdYM1T8PhBbmQIqtFJWJ-FvhB7E7Ed4g9tx0FicVTktXJZNqNwAqA1WEWJk5MqHaygtCYiwa0xl7qAP6_E0wubOlltzdHM1AFxb4SOzE/s1600/IMG_2397.JPG" height="640" width="358" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; text-align: start;">Received an order of Book of Mormons from the mission home the other day</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JilaVSjMsLR493u5nSXNw_V5GJtWbq5XsYO67c48lt1hsRFYFT8PjT6QfLhvAMCaPxvFfQcHoYWn_BdwkGJVnhzcaPD7PKsj8pgolCiXWatLI5vly8_zSw1m6HqAcORpeAs-v5tJ0dnI/s1600/IMG_2356.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8JilaVSjMsLR493u5nSXNw_V5GJtWbq5XsYO67c48lt1hsRFYFT8PjT6QfLhvAMCaPxvFfQcHoYWn_BdwkGJVnhzcaPD7PKsj8pgolCiXWatLI5vly8_zSw1m6HqAcORpeAs-v5tJ0dnI/s1600/IMG_2356.JPG" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Segoe UI, Helvetica, Arial, Lucida Grande, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">another pic with Cho</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOr3vLc9TDlo8fnRQSs1EwfOavpyfRPlgN_IAy_OGkccwrnFTJ82o0LVDOPa6ExQfoaMljGL7jN12K84zz5J9sCF2ym7_7wN1NrpZBCbzNER49qigBNZTkgoSSWdqYgRyiG4Wk2BRhA4H5/s1600/IMG_2402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOr3vLc9TDlo8fnRQSs1EwfOavpyfRPlgN_IAy_OGkccwrnFTJ82o0LVDOPa6ExQfoaMljGL7jN12K84zz5J9sCF2ym7_7wN1NrpZBCbzNER49qigBNZTkgoSSWdqYgRyiG4Wk2BRhA4H5/s1600/IMG_2402.JPG" height="358" width="640" /></a></div>
R<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">eunited with Elder Hall, hes in my district! SO excited to see him back!! (He was my MTC companion)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">ping pong night on friday</span></div>
Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-55554592574916617572015-03-02T08:31:00.001-08:002015-03-02T13:46:50.031-08:00Week 25 sorry it's short!<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Well I got zero time again this week. I was
caught up doing some other stuff with a member today, like all day. I am feeling back to normal pretty much, thanks to your love and prayers!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">This week was a little rough/tiring! My
companion went back into the hospital again. Looks like he is still sick. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; font-size: 14pt;">L</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> Dangit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">But this week we did have a few lessons. One of
which we invited one of our investigators to be baptized. He didn’t quite
accept it yet! The only opposition was to how fast the date was. He promised us
he would go home and personally pray about it. Pray he accepts! I love this man
to death. He is so humble and ready to join the church. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I started working out again though. First time
in over an entire month! I got freaking skinny so figured it was time to put
some meat back on after being sick. Leggooo!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Tuesday was my companion’s birthday. The big
21! He felt REALLY sick that day. It was bad. Being the greatest missionary
companion ever I decided to make him breakfast in bed on his big day. Made some
toast and brought him yogurt. His favorites! (considering it’s the only thing
he can really eat at the moment haha).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">But One special thing that happened that day
was amazing. He said" It’s my birthday, lets at least go out for a little
bit" So we stocked up with our good ole stack of book of Mormons and
headed out for a space of two hours. We prayed earnestly and fervently for
strength to endure the time we were out considering my companion was basically
dying. Poor guy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">And never in my life have I have ever hurt so badly
in the face! Straight smile from ear to ear during that whole two hours sharing
the feeling of my heart about the Book of Mormon and what I know to be true. In
fact, we stopped a young girl and she about fell over seeing our smiles when we
handed her a book of Mormon. We trekked a long stopping EVERYONE we saw. And by
the end of the two hours, we placed 11 book of Mormons into the hands of the
people on the streets. Heavenly Father truly helped us out during that time. I
can say from the heart that I left everything and gave it my all in those two
hours & especially my companion! Definitely
a memorable experience for the both of us, especially since it was on his
birthday!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Pray for my companion. I love him so much. He
is a brother to me and seeing him the way he is, is the last thing I want for
him. We do feel your prayers and appreciate it so much!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I’d love to hear from all of you people too! Hearing
about how y’all are doing! Please email me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><a href="mailto:jacob.preciado@myldsmail.net" target="_blank"><span style="color: #196ad4;">jacob.preciado@myldsmail.net</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Much love to you all. Know that the lord loves
you and that you are never alone in anything you go through, he is ALWAYS
there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Till next week and hopefully when I have more
time! And sorry no pics...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Elder Preciado</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 21.3333339691162px;">あいしてますよ!</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 21.3333339691162px;"><br /></span>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 21.3333339691162px;"><br /></span>Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-33374840684299338032015-02-23T13:13:00.000-08:002015-03-22T22:34:58.489-07:00 Well, you guessed it.... Week 24<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background: white;">What’s good family, people? Not much to report this week. My
companion is still suffering this sickness. For the most part I am okay! I’m
finally better, but He is not. I feel so bad and It’s kinda crazy. I have no
idea what to do anymore since we have been stuck inside for so long! I’m
studying hymns now, which is pretty crazy. Some deep stuff that we sing every Sunday
that I’m sure half of us know nothing about!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
will share a cool story that just happened today. We were walking on the street
coming to the church and an old lady was walking our way. She looked like she
was just trekking along with life, things looked hard you could see it on her
little old face. So I leaned to my companion and said," We are going to
give her the BIGGEST and BEST smiles we have." As she approached, I gave
her a simple hello and the best smile I had within in me. And to see the look
on her face was something special. Her countenance changed completely upside
down. She stopped and said," Hey! Where are you going?!" We talked
for a bit and she gave us a couple of dried fruits for our walk. The nicest
lady ever!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Something
as simple as a smile can pick someone up. "Let your light so shine
forth!"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Well
folks I apologize this week’s email is so short. But that’s going to make next week’s all the
better. We are working hard to get things going again. Today was transfers and
we are staying again, which we figured since we haven’t even been here that
long since being sick. Keep praying for
my companion and I that we can get out and spread the word!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">I
love you all, you close to the lord.. yeah? I promise He will take you in the
right direction!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Til
next time,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">Elder
Jacob Preciado</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">あいしてますよ!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">(This is mom talking...I still can see in his eyes that he is not feeling well :/ poor guy)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">A drawing I drew for a very ill member whom loves mickey mouse</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p>Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-2131088422920883062015-02-16T16:24:00.000-08:002015-02-23T13:13:25.622-08:00The Final Days of Exile - Week 23<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hello Everyone!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">FIRST OFF!!! </span><span style="background-color: white;">YEAH, FREAK YEAH MAN!! Josh & Ashley having a boy! Sooo PUMPED guys!!!! </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This week was a special one for many instances. One, we were able to DO STUFF! Kind of haha. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Last Monday, we had permission to go see "Les Miserables" with one of the Sisters investigators. A local university did it and performed in English! (Freakin Weird) but I enjoyed it! A past investigator of my companion ran away from home and showed up at our church from like miles away. We were able to talk to him and send him back home again. Pretty odd but it all worked out!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tuesday, for the most part we weren't feeling good and were told to stay in the apartment again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sooo, we did and basically tried to rest as much as possible during all that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Wednesday, we were somewhat still sick but were able to visit a few people And then head out to Eikaiwa (English class). It was a good class, taught some English ya know!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thursday, was the best day of them allllllll. Elder Aoyagi, of the Seventy, came to the mission and was able to speak to us. Was an amazing conference!! Was one of the harder conferences considering it was in Japanese, but it was good! He came up to me after and gave me a hug and thanked me for giving the opening prayer! His wife is very sweet and gave an amazing talk on what a simple smile can do to people.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Friday, we went out to dinner with a crazy man... one of our potential investigators. The sisters came as well. Everytime we brought up the gospel with him he would completely shut it down and change the subject. It just turned into an hour and a half of him making fun of ME for being big and I guess handsome? (I don't know folks) So I just messed with him back the entire time. I wasn't feeling good and wasn't in the mood either! It was friendly teasing, not rudeness don't worry people! I'm better than that ;)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After that we had a ping pong night at the church and an investigator came. Lots of fun!! I freakin wrecked everyone. I turn Asian when It comes to ping pong.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Saturday, we were way wrecked, still sick and what not. so we stayed in again.... (dang it)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sunday, was a good one. We made it to church again! And we were asked by the Mercados ( a half Peruvian, half Japanese family) to come over and teach there son, who is seven, the lessons since he will be getting baptized next month. Smart, and cute kid! Still needs and wants to learn a lot. Has a great heart :) I spent half of church talking about Super Mario to him. Don't know how I knew the Japanese for that convo but I did haha.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And that leaves us with today! Went to the Hospital for the last time probably today. Everything seems to be going good just the sickness taking its toll.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">An amazing experience happened last week! And well the this week too. I received a letter from a past investigator from Hashimoto. Saying some really nice things and how she missed me and stuff. Very sweet lady! So I wrote one back encouraging her to read the Book of Mormon and continue investigating and what not. But after I was finished, and as I was about to seal the letter, I had the weirdest prompting. The spirit told me," Pull out the drawing of Christ and the boy on the bench that you drew and send it to her". At first I said HECK NO!! because I took a lot of time on that drawing! But It came again. "Give it to her". So I humbled myself, and popped it in and sent it off. This week, I received another letter from her. And I was touched to the point where she left me in tears. She explained everything in her letter. She wrote," I was so happy to see that you took the time to write me, but I was crying tears of joy when I saw that you had given me that picture that you drew for me" Lately the lady has been having some personal issues and concerns going on in her life. Things of the world, her mother and so on. She lives with her 94 year old mother whom she takes care of everyday. She loves reading the bible, but she likes it for the stories, she doesn't necessarily read it for beliefs. She says she doesn't understand nor really did care who or what Jesus did in the first place. But amazingly, because of the picture I sent her she said and I quote, "Just from looking at your picture, I can tell you spent a lot of time on it! You have perfect proportions, depth and I can feel the message that comes off of it. But most of all, Just by looking at how you carefully drew Christ, I can see your love for him, and I now understand who he is. I can behold His greatness from your picture. I purchased a picture frame and decorated my drawers with it on top. Every time I look at it now, it brings me a sense of peace and comfort. Thank you for sending this to me. It's what I needed at this time. You have a genius talent. Keep blessing others the way you blessed me!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is just a sealing testament to my message to you all last week. God lives. He knows us all and he watches over us and takes care of us. He has a way with working through the spirit to help and guide his children. I'm so grateful for the fact that he used me to help bless this woman's life in such a simple way. Sometimes its just by needing to show a little bit of love to someone in need. I love what I do, why I do it, and what It's doing to me. I'm so grateful for this gospel! For those not of this faith, I invite you to come and see! Come and see what this can do for you and your life. Its changed mine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I love you all so much. talk to you soon!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Elder Preciado......Jake :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">あいしてますよ!</span></div>
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Dr.s again!<br />
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-66986494628542309052015-02-10T14:19:00.001-08:002015-03-02T08:29:19.421-08:0020 Days of Exile!!! Week 22!<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Whats good peeps?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">You all are hoping that I got better! Guess what! SIKE im still sick. Today is the 20th day man. I know, what the heck....right?! What is life? I could tell you everything about that because all I do is study the standard works every single day for hours on end. And let me tell ya... Ive been learning a lot. Of which I will share with you in a little bit. :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This week, as others have been the same. Trapped inside! But like I said, all I do with my time is educate myself on gospel doctrine. We did have a miracle this week though! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My companion and I had a prompting to go to the store and buy some yogurt. Why? I have no idea. We are not supposed to leave our apartment though is the thing. (According to Sister Welch, the mission presidents wife) BUT! considering it was the spirit telling us to go we went anyway. We showed up at the store, grabbed some yogurt, and checked out. As we were leaving some dude runs up to us and was like "Hey! Ive been to your church and have had some holy bread and water! Come over to my house right now!" So we went and talked for a bit and scheduled an appointment for this friday! So glad the Lord helped us feel happy again during the week :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Spirit is REAL!!!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Also we finally made it to church! And our investigator showed up man! Sickness! Speaking of sickness like i said we still have it so we did our best at church, taught our buddy, and then went home because we were feeling pretty bad. BUT, we went. We were starting to go less active bro. But we made it and everyone was happy to see us up and ALIVE.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Through all my studying and through my experience with the yogurt man, Ive been learning a lot about the spirit, how it works, and about revelation. Ive read some crazy talks too so ill share from these as well!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The spirit works in many different ways. The Holy Ghost is a member of the godhead. He is literally a GOD. which means if we want his presence and help, we must live worthy of it. we must be clean. That means both physically, AND spiritually. (take a shower, brush your teeth, repent!) When this is done, you leave a perfect environment for the spirit to reside.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The spirit talks to you through the light of Jesus Christ. It is the creating, governing power that can be found in and through all things. It is everywhere present and possible. its is "the light that quickeneths understanding" (D&C 88:11) It is what scientists call nature, its what protestant and Catholics call God, What humanists call decency, its what the man on the street calls common sense.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The spirit talks to us through the light of Christ. To anyone. Anyone can feel of its power. As for members, we hold the gift of the Holy ghost. we have what is called an educated conscience. When one engages themselves in learning and growing spiritually, they are educating their conscience. They receive promptings and personal commandments sent form the heavens. They feel a conviction of guilt to breaking commandments that arent even known or viewed to the world. In general, the ten commandments are a standard, but when one goes beyond following JUST those, and the teachings of the church, they educate their conscience and are bound to and qualify to receive personal revelation from God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Think of it this way. The Father, and the Son are radio announcers, they speak through the Holy Ghost, which is the radio itself, The radio waves are the light of Christ that are carried to us!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">(Bruce R. McConkie came up with that one !)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Ask yourself and ponder this question in your heart, If you listen, your conscience will tell you and you will know exactly how to answer it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"What do I need to do to come closer to Christ?"</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Whatever it is you received, THAT is the spirit. You received that answer through the light of Christ. That is revelation. You can enhance that ability to receive and learn by studying the scriptures daily, listening when you pray, and committing to obey what you hear. If you don't listen to it, God will stop giving it to you because you wont listen anyways!!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Nephi always did what the lord commanded! he always talked and communed with God because he had an educated conscience. Laman and Lemual thought he was crazy! they did NOT have an educated conscience which is why they "never knew such things from the Lord". They did not follow the commandments, pray, or study anything like Nephi did.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Do those things, pray always and listen, part of praying is listening, read and study the scriptures daily, educate your conscience and when you do your knowledge will grow, you will begin to know what it is in life you need to do (your purpose) and you will feel a greater abundance of peace and happiness from it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know that, with all my heart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Everyone needs guidance in there life. without it, we would all be lost in darkness. Its like going on a road trip without a map. You will go no where. I pray and advise you all to educate your conscience, to do whats right always so that you can feel and see the blessings and power of the Holy ghost in your life. I testify that as you do Marvelous things in our lives would happen. My life was literally saved because of the Holy Ghost. I'm so thankful for it and how It has blessed my life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My companion says hello. and He is alive too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We love you all so very much. This week, Answer that question I asked and Do it. Your life will be blessed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">LOVE, Elder Preciado</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 21.3333339691162px;">あいしてますよ!</span></div>
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member gave me a michael jackson glove cause hes obsessed AND us being bored!</div>
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These are pictures from outside our apartment window :) And yes when I still look and feel sick :/</div>
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-21502211149720672812015-02-02T14:52:00.000-08:002015-02-16T18:29:45.819-08:00Still sick :( Week 21<br />
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<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">What’s up peeps.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Yet
again, still thrashed with sickness. Most horrible thing in the world... I just
want to teach people!!! That is why you are getting my letter later than normal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">My
companion picked up whatever I had too, so we are together in the apartment, in
complete exile once more. We do all we can to still be effective in our
proselyting efforts. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">There
isn't a whole lot to share with you other than we were in the apartment , man
not cool...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Remember
how I finished the Book of Mormon last week? yeahhhhh well I’m about to do it
again, soo thats a little image for what life is like for the two of us. I did
go to the hospital this morning again though. It appears that I did NOT have
the flu but had/have some crazy virus. Pretty sketchy stuff man. They still
think it came from oysters or something we ate, I don’t even know other than it
SUCKS SO BAD!! They did some blood tests, and some other weird things and tests
and have no idea what the heck is wrong meaning that stuff was all ! Grrrr... I
received some medicine for my symptoms but other than that I’m sitting and
suffering since I can’t teach!! I feel like I am still slowly getting better so
I guess that’s good right?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">We
have been making paper airplanes out of our church flyers and throwing em off
our balcony to people. We are literally doing all we can!!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">One
thing we did do was we mustered up the strength to walk a few buildings down to
our friend I spoke about a few weeks ago. The man who we lent some money to get
the hospital for his mom! Whom we stopped and talked to the other day. I had
this feeling," bring the man some church clothes", and it had been in
my mind allll week. SO! I picked a pair of pants that were smallest on me, one
of my ties and a couple white shirts for him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Now
previously, we stopped by earlier and gave him a Plan of Salvation pamphlet to
read. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">We
show up near his house and he’s outside already! So i yell to him and say
"Hey! I gotta present for ya!" He stops and is stunned out of his
mind when I brought him my clothes. Because when he found the pamphlet he said
he read it like 3 times! (SO sick man) And in the very back of it, it has an
invitation to come to church! It explains what church is, what we do, and what
we wear. He really wanted to come to church he said, but didn't have any
clothes and didn't want to embarrass himself by wearing the same clothes he wears
all the time. So when we came, his joy blew through the roofs. (What I live
for) At that point, he didn’t even care what it looked like, or how big it
was.( Dude it was so big on him!! He’s a tiny man ) He was excited to have
clothes for church, Not only that, but to have new clothes in general. He only
wears one pair every day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">When
I met him for the third time, I was moved with compassion for this man. Because
of how humble he is, with how little he has. The Lord blessed that man, through
me, because of his desire and faith. I'm so forever grateful to have been used
as an instrument in his work. This is HIS work. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Through
reading the Book of Mormon, I read a lot of 3rd Nephi, Which holds the account
of Jesus and his ministry amongst the Nephites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">I
LOVE JESUS YO. He’s my best friend. One of the things I admire him for, is his
love and charity towards EVERYONE. It’s not selective, it’s not half, its
unconditional, it’s infinite, and never ending. One of the things he
specifically asks us to do is to love one another as he loves us! From reading
this all so much, it inspired me to act and try and be like my Savior. I love
him, and he loves me. I know that. He also loves every single one of you. I
know that. He’s our Exemplar. Follow him. When you do, your life will change as
mine has, having love unfeigned for all his children, and desiring to serve and
help those in need. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">As
Ammon is, I only glory in my God. Not in my own strength. I am nothing but a
blessed soul in his hands in this work. He loves me and this is what he would
have wanted me to do. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">This
week, think of a way you can reach out to someone else. Someone, perhaps in
need? Whatever the case may be, do it
for someone else, for the Lord! Then you will feel the blessings and Joy of
serving others!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Have
a blessed week. I love you all, and until next time :) Pray for me and my
companion so that we can get out and share Christ’s message!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">P.s. I hope Addison received my package I sent for her Birthday! Man I can't believe that little stinker is 14, that is nuts! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 16pt;">あいしてますよ!</span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 16pt;">Elder
Preciado<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 21.3333339691162px; line-height: 22.8266677856445px;">(You can tell by his eyes hes still sick :()</span><span style="font-size: 16.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
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Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-65915577142904573292015-01-25T20:28:00.002-08:002015-01-25T20:29:30.578-08:00I'm Alive! Week 20<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">What is
up people? It’s been a pretty crazy week. Not that great of one to be honest.
But BEFORE I say anything, I AM FINE NOW! Still feel it but for the most part
have recovered.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Tuesday was a pretty good day. That was the day that we taught our
buddy that we found on the street last week. We taught him an amazing lesson
which got him super duper excited to continue learning the gospel! In fact, we
were teaching a little bit about prayer and repentance and he says,"hold
up hold up! Just a second. I need to start repenting right away, can I pray
really quick to begin my process?" My companion and I looked at each other
and just thought, "who is this guy? He’s so ready!" We plan to invite
him to be baptized next lesson. Pray he accepts!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">BUT, during the lesson, I started to feel really hot, and what not
so I thought whatever! It’s just the Heater! WRONG. I went to bed that night,
everything was fine. Woke up and felt normalish? So we headed out! We had the
idea to visit our Bishop and bring him some treats. Like a doorbell ditch kinda
thing from "anonymous" people. So we rode to his house! Which was
pretty freakin far out there, Kinda sucked but it was all for Bishop, so worth
it! We made it all the way there, hit up a bakery and brought the goods over
and ditched! quite fun. After, since we rode pretty far, we decided to stay in
the area and dendo! That’s when my head started picking up, and I started not
to feel well soon thereafter. We stayed for about 30 min. then I was feeling
HORRIBLE. We started our trek back and what not. The hardest bike ride of my
life. It was about 5:30 when we got back and we had a lesson at the church at
6:00 planned. I decided to stick it out and go! The guy didn’t freakin show up :/
... But it’s okay. Another time. I was about ready to head out when I forgot it
was Wednesday... The day we teach English Class at 7:00 every week. So I had to
stay for that too! My companion is a champ and said I could just sit in the
corner and relax and he would teach because of how sick i was feeling. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> About 15 minutes in, I suddenly gotten
instantaneously dizzy, and my vision was blurred. INCREDIBLY. I motioned to a
member that I needed to go to the bathroom. I stood and stumbled, and almost
fell on my face because I couldn’t see, hear, and was incredibly dizzy. I made
it to the bathroom and just threw up a ton. came out and was still feeling the
horrible. My body was in SO much pain,
My head, my stomach, in great amounts of pain. Sharp, and achy pains. I was
FREEZING from head to toe as well. Everything just got worse and worse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> My bishop walks into the church and sees me
with the member, and decides to give me a blessing. At this point I’m literally
in tears due to the way I feel. I’ve never been THIS sick in years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">After the blessing I was taken to the hospital for treatment. Don’t
remember anything from the hospital other than them shoving stuff all the way
up my nose to check for stuff (Hurt SO bad haha) And then stumbling around trying
to walk and stay strong. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"> By the end of the trip, they never found out
what was wrong with me other than thinking it was an oyster virus and they gave
me some medicine for the next few days to see if I can get better. Soo I’ve
been sick in bed the past four days basically. every time I ate something, it
would come right back out. so technically I haven’t eaten in probably 3 days
straight, nothing but some Aquarius (Japanese Gatorade). It’s been rough, I
lost a ton of weight, and what not but I’m slowly progressing and getting
better. Pray for me yall!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">During all this, obviously I haven’t been able to go out and do
the work so I’ve been doing what I can every now and then. We have been calling
people from our area book, I occasionally went out on to our balcony (we live
on the 5th floor of an apartment complex) and yelled at people on the street
from the top saying "Come unto Christ!!! Have a good day!!!"
quite fun! Although not very effective. Lol During that time though I was
sick, I have been fortunate enough to have a lot of study time! in which I read
the entire Book of Mormon :) MAAANNNNNNNN was that sick/awesome. If you haven’t
read the book yet, I highly advise you to do so. There’s nothing specific I can
really share with you other than the fact that I know with all my heart that It
is true. The more I read it every day, the more times I finish, my knowledge
and testimony of its divinity is strengthened. Before I came out here on a
mission, I was familiar with the book, I knew it, I read it, said it was true
merely due to the fact everyone else said it. I can honestly say at that time,
I had a testimony…but didn't feel I truly had my very OWN testimony of it. I've
read it 3 times now I study and learn and Live its teachings every single day
now and know without a doubt it is the word of God. If someone was to come up
to me, gun at the head and said, "deny it and live!" I don't know
what I would've said or did before. But now I’d say," Fire away my friend,
and may the Lord have mercy on you and your sins"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">It was sent to us in this generation, through Joseph Smith who
translated it. Use it, follow it, read it. Live by its teachings and your life
will be changed and blessed just like mine has been. More peace and love within
your families and friends will abide, and you will begin to understand your
purpose and why you're here. I know for a fact that question has come up into
all of our lives at some point in time! Like I said, I highly advise you to
read! whether you are a member or not! Or even if you have already or not! If
so, read it again. The Lord is bound through His Holy Spirit to teach something
new and profound that you never knew before. As an official representative of
the church, having been called to testify of eternal truths, I testify this
book will change your life. It will pull you out of problems, it will lift you
and guide you and most of all bless you. (I can’t emphasize that enough!)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I love you guys. You all are my good friends and family no matter who
is reading this. All of you! I’m on the rise to 100 percent full functionality,
and pray I get there quicker so I can tell the Japanese people about how
awesome this book is! And pray my companion doesn't get what I got. (Which may
be a virus from oysters?)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Well, I will talk to you all next week!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Love,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Elder Preciado<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-align: start;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'MS Gothic'; font-size: 12pt; text-align: start;">プレシア度長老</span></div>
Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6736055747772346947.post-70948275112828699552015-01-18T21:43:00.000-08:002015-01-18T21:48:22.879-08:00Fresh Start!! Week 19 <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Well hello everyone!!</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Wow
what a great week! I ended my days in Hashimoto saying my good byes to
investigators and friends. It was hard but awesome all at the same time! I pray
for them every day that they may come closer to Christ :)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Thursday
was Transfer day, The hardest day!, physically that is. I carried my weights
all the way from Hashimoto lugging by train, walking, everything. NOT FUN. But
got a nice workout all day so that's sick right? haha.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Made
it to my new area and met my new companion Elder Grossen from Arizona! Really
cool guy and a great missionary! We both are brand new in this area. We
"White Washed" into Fushimi and are trying to pick up where everyone
left off.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Last
Friday, My birthday!! (By the way thank you everyone for the kind notes and
wishes :) ) was one of the greatest days of my mission. So many Miracles
happened. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">We
came back from the church after studying there in the morning, and just as we
were going to cross the street, i see an old guy staring at us. I knew inside I
needed to talk to him, but all i said was hi. As we walked by I felt bad i dint
say anything! As i parked my bike, i look over and see him coming back our way!
so i grabbed my companion and we ran over to him! Turns out the guy has taken lessons
before and what not, he’s a little crazy but didn't matter! He was worried
about his mother in the hospital preparing for surgery. He wants to help her
and doesn't know how, we taught him about God and prayer and how if you show
your faith, God will do the rest. He got really happy, and said," I like
you! next Tuesday, i don't care if its raining, snowing, earthquake, NOTHING!!
you are meeting me here. RIGHT HERE, at 6 o'clock! got it!" he was getting
ready to walk 2 hours to visit his mom, he had no money for a train or
anything. So My companion and I split 1 bucks and payed his round trip for him.
The joy in his eyes is indescribable. THAT is what I love to do. Make people
happy from what we share and help them with. THAT is why I am a missionary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">The
rest of that day, was similar stuff one after another, after another!
Stopping random kids, college students, etc. and immediately testifying of its
divinity and power and getting the reply, “I want you to teach me more
please". It’s a blessing! gave out 6 Book of Mormons think? Can’t
remember! It was a lot!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">That
day we were walking our bikes, and some dude, walks up and starts waking right
beside me, and says," hey you’re the missionaries! teach me something will
ya?" The entire day we were stunned at Gods hand in everything. I think
God knew it was my Birthday and wanted to make me happy! That and a ton other
stuff happened that day with inviting people to English class, church, to take
the lessons, and ALL were successful in one way or another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Best
part was when a random man came to church yesterday, stayed all three hours and
said he wanted to learn more and more. "This church makes me feel good, I
like this." We taught him briefly throughout the meetings and accepted a
"soft" invitation to be baptized. Stay tuned!! :)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">This
week I've been learning all about the Atonement, our ability to change. Become
better, not only from a sinful state but just using the power it has to change
in general. One of the greatest gifts from our creator!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Through
it, we have the opportunity to be forgiven of our sins, use it to change and
improve our lives. BUT, we need to do our part, need to walk through and do
step 1 first before we can receive the blessings! For instance, Christ is
basically a garbage man! He comes and takes our trash away! He comes always and
will be happy to take our trash for us, but, it’s our job to take it to the
curb if we want it out! We must approach and enter the "Red Door",
meaning the cleansing power of it! In order to get there, we gotta do our stuff,
read scriptures, pray, go to church, do everything we can to show our faith in
order to be cleansed by it. When we do that, we qualify to access the cleansing
power of the atonement and are able to enter the "Red Door" (Don’t
ask why it’s red just go with it!) Once we are there we are clean and pure if
we did our part the right way. We qualify to access the "Blue Door"
or the enabling power of the atonement. Basically, the power to do stuff that
no mortals can do. The power of priesthood, miracles etc. We in essence become
god like. That is our end goal, to be like God himself. and that is only done
through Christ and his atonement. The word Atonement is At One
"Ment", to be coming closer and closer till eventually we are
"At One" with our Heavenly Father.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">USE
IT! Make yourselves better. Anything is possible through it! Alma the younger
was considered the most vilest of all sinners, the worst of the worst. But in
and through Christ he changed, and became one of the greatest prophets and
missionaries in all of time. It’s possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">In my
life I’ve made some mistakes ,we all have. But I’m truly grateful for the
atonement and what it’s done for me as a member of this church, a missionary,
as a Son of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
pray that each one who is reading this can realize and use the power of the
atonement. It’s free, pure, and everlasting. May we all "take our trash to
the curb" and let us become better saints and children of our father in
heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Thank
you for keeping Elder Hall in your prayers and please continue to do so. He is
healing well after surgery but can still use your prayers. Love you Elder Hall!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">I
love you all and am so grateful to be a missionary in these last times. Take
care and think about how you can better your life in this coming week! Until
next week! stay tuned...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">Elder
Preciado<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">プレシア度長老</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif;">1 John 4:17-18 my favorite scripture!</span></div>
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Pics from new area, making Mochi again and playing with this cute lil guy!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37xEabrZQzyAx09ZdsdLBmxI1t1K6Dcu44kxiJoAvoyR9AEVyTRLoxG5q3I46tCmiLPdSxx8a8FbxpIbE5JKP4nasbCMZ8Jc6RP4oq2fmfv5lLsE2-Evt2xBNfeVlfbCTRTuFkADoHT1j/s1600/DSCF4264%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi37xEabrZQzyAx09ZdsdLBmxI1t1K6Dcu44kxiJoAvoyR9AEVyTRLoxG5q3I46tCmiLPdSxx8a8FbxpIbE5JKP4nasbCMZ8Jc6RP4oq2fmfv5lLsE2-Evt2xBNfeVlfbCTRTuFkADoHT1j/s1600/DSCF4264%5B1%5D.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ94C-WqrOwQh19SnlJuKhsHVjjLIhgmHC5DbO2JLoZBDIavd9tfo6eQyjd-k3LXMMak-OpC6L7-EVj4ANeJp_EZBJjepowN2woyANTFwEHS1qhIDf7V5lqEwyW5NiPDuPjCXmu1EzmUAK/s1600/DSCF4258%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ94C-WqrOwQh19SnlJuKhsHVjjLIhgmHC5DbO2JLoZBDIavd9tfo6eQyjd-k3LXMMak-OpC6L7-EVj4ANeJp_EZBJjepowN2woyANTFwEHS1qhIDf7V5lqEwyW5NiPDuPjCXmu1EzmUAK/s1600/DSCF4258%5B1%5D.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVI7BXP6tYf47Ue8l61lR-704fpXVBtSOECk9iPscBgvAv9I_PEpysCBJ3O0hn81ELrUsKCfW01Z7qjd_e5y3heYSn7t8WoideejpKHv3WMreWYn57o8-wY9VuZ-O_LgBpskjMKm8vsM-Q/s1600/DSCF4250%5B1%5D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVI7BXP6tYf47Ue8l61lR-704fpXVBtSOECk9iPscBgvAv9I_PEpysCBJ3O0hn81ELrUsKCfW01Z7qjd_e5y3heYSn7t8WoideejpKHv3WMreWYn57o8-wY9VuZ-O_LgBpskjMKm8vsM-Q/s1600/DSCF4250%5B1%5D.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGTWeJM-0t5gophIvszmxYedKzm5Av7h-UdPR53C1rVJUP4AS5UU21s-72-19leHXnzHdM-0hd1BiAZ7xF9I1VmIQHJped0xTsQZ8gdxdE7nLH2e1GTOcBaT1s0DQfi8HnnLuANiHDyC6/s1600/jake5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGTWeJM-0t5gophIvszmxYedKzm5Av7h-UdPR53C1rVJUP4AS5UU21s-72-19leHXnzHdM-0hd1BiAZ7xF9I1VmIQHJped0xTsQZ8gdxdE7nLH2e1GTOcBaT1s0DQfi8HnnLuANiHDyC6/s1600/jake5.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Heres a few of my investigators from Hashimoto and pics from a small party my ward mission leader threw me!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXdwg13_UV1XOLtzv5WWvkj8TGCk1qiMQXV8Ha4JjQLy09GvPsKEfUeVaNQtY8Nsbzn9nBIvvAH0HAf9cIgkgCB7tOkHFCh0d0sPGOupFT8ELx-mcLnli3-kDM15gS63ESBN5Q-45Fq0g/s1600/jake4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXdwg13_UV1XOLtzv5WWvkj8TGCk1qiMQXV8Ha4JjQLy09GvPsKEfUeVaNQtY8Nsbzn9nBIvvAH0HAf9cIgkgCB7tOkHFCh0d0sPGOupFT8ELx-mcLnli3-kDM15gS63ESBN5Q-45Fq0g/s1600/jake4.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9scikG7uYaEO3rixWMTJwJEtJUbRQqNNsYR0TOajIpm9HizOr_YRuYCput66nhvYTJ_OwEIeAuXwEEG2JOe4lMsqDpwUExWuTeqvDotPITVvP6kt0YGfy4S9fk-HCsBArpltoM_P8-vT/s1600/jake3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju9scikG7uYaEO3rixWMTJwJEtJUbRQqNNsYR0TOajIpm9HizOr_YRuYCput66nhvYTJ_OwEIeAuXwEEG2JOe4lMsqDpwUExWuTeqvDotPITVvP6kt0YGfy4S9fk-HCsBArpltoM_P8-vT/s1600/jake3.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCQjYy9fE8eQl31YgSiP8DqBOkf5hY391K9sEJTYTTAEUsGYjnJ4wt3NTRyMX20H50ce3FoAeEdDe3Ixyd9fwc1X-IrLDHu1QtOhXP518_fnov6XZdNKSwvrxzcEb1lVyTMbjiR9XiYo7/s1600/jake1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmCQjYy9fE8eQl31YgSiP8DqBOkf5hY391K9sEJTYTTAEUsGYjnJ4wt3NTRyMX20H50ce3FoAeEdDe3Ixyd9fwc1X-IrLDHu1QtOhXP518_fnov6XZdNKSwvrxzcEb1lVyTMbjiR9XiYo7/s1600/jake1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', 'Segoe UI', Helvetica, Arial, 'Lucida Grande', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The chocolate piece says あぼかどおじさん Which means Uncle Avocado my dumb nickname...haha</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5aqeiSJxKFJvlA1Ux-b92kT62b69UDsQc548zdHZVMguAD4vn8Z53hSYrz4t927m8SdCyuLC5MLl3zugPMHOLVDkgQUb0xy6Rxt7fcvsBTVVXc8Q1yjPQO0QZPzoG68MYlOz5AcOKDLBf/s1600/jake2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5aqeiSJxKFJvlA1Ux-b92kT62b69UDsQc548zdHZVMguAD4vn8Z53hSYrz4t927m8SdCyuLC5MLl3zugPMHOLVDkgQUb0xy6Rxt7fcvsBTVVXc8Q1yjPQO0QZPzoG68MYlOz5AcOKDLBf/s1600/jake2.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Elder Jacob Matthew Preciadohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13862881562407934407noreply@blogger.com0