Labor Day

     It's been just over a month for us in the mission field. The time has gone by so fast! Sometimes it feels like we aren't accomplishing very much, but in reality we are. It just takes time for the seeds we are planting to to germinate, sprout and grow, then become fully ripe and start to bear fruit. Luckily, our missionary service should not be viewed as a sprint, but more like a marathon. Our consistent, dedicated efforts day by day will reap a bountiful harvest of souls we have helped bring closer to Jesus Christ by the time we reach the finish line when our full-time mission is over. 

    We feel it's not really true to call what we're doing ... missionary "work". Our efforts to reach and teach people are merely an extension of our desire to share gospel principles with others as we interact with them in normal and natural conversations. We're finding it is fun and enjoyable for us to love others, share insights from our personal experiences, invite them to become closer to Christ by reading the Book of Mormon, and to seek God through prayer. It's "work" only if we choose to have the wrong attitude about it. This Labor Day, we're reminded of this verse of scripture: "And if it so be that you should LABOR all your days in crying repentance unto this people, and bring, save it be one soul unto me, how great shall be your JOY with him in the kingdom of my Father!" (D & C 18:15)

    We are still several weeks away from being allowed to volunteer at the state mental hospital and the correctional facilities that are within our ward boundaries, but we are making slow and steady progress - doing interviews, getting references and background checks, filling out numerous forms, submitting course syllabi for approval etc. This is something far easier for us to accomplish than the younger elders and sisters simply because we are more permanent in our missionary assignment. We are planning to teach values and principles that we can learn from the bible and other sources, and how those we teach can apply them into their daily lives. Sister Mundell calls this sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ through the "back door".

    It was a very moving experience for us at Waimanalo ward last Sunday. After sacrament meeting was over, the congregation stood and sang "Aloha Oe" (farewell to thee) to a longtime faithful member who was leaving. Dozens of people, old and young lined up, and one by one they gave him a lei and a hug or kiss on the cheek. A very sweet tradition, much beloved by the Hawaiian Saints. Last night we attended a fish fry and talent show hosted by the Olomana ward. They've been doing this for many years, and well over a hundred people showed up, including many non-members and less active. We've included a picture of the deep fried fish, quite a sight to see. A highlight of the talent show was a little 5 year-old girl who lip-synced and danced all the moves to a hip-hop song. Cathy got into the spirit and did a hula along with the Relief Society sisters. 





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