Silence

Stressful situations and can't beat opportunities have a tendency to bring out the true colors in people. I know it is during these times that I begin to see the real person I am. I think that is why I find what the Savior did so extraordinary. No level of distress, pain, or heartache could deter him from his purpose.

I have come to discover recently that certain aspects of my life, for some reason beyond my comprehension, have been kicking me in the face. I made reference to this in the introduction of this blog so, yes, this is one of those posts. I won't burden you, the most important person in the world, with details that you do not need but will hopefully paint the picture enough detail to keep your interest and get the point across.

I love to run. I believe I have since I was in elementary school when I almost broke a six minute mile. As I've grown older, music has become an integral part of my runs. I seem to be transported into a different world where all I see ahead of me is the next point I want to reach. All I care about is running. If I get tired I turn up the music and run harder. Stopping is simply not an option. I love the feeling of the adrenaline rush that comes when you decide to push yourself a little farther, just enough to reach the next checkpoint. Then, when you get there, and you don't stop. This, as of late, has become one of my few forms of refuge. So, I ran in hopes of hiding for a while until I could figure a few things out.

I wish more than ever that that was the case today. I should have run longer.

Today I ran with the hopes of figuring things out. I ran back to places where part of my history lies, seeking for answers that seem to have been avoiding me over the last few months. I have been fighting a silent, single war of which no immediate end is in sight. A war which is fought in the silent chambers of the inner self.

And sometimes, the answer is just silence.

Christ, standing before the devils of the Sanhedrin, chose silence. He chose to bear his burden alone for he knew it was the only way. I imagine his eyes were fixed on his destination, his body pumping with adrenaline as he slowly approached his destination, being supported by the unbelievable power of his Father and God. One by one, nails were put into his hands, wrists, and feet; hung with common criminals he was  humiliated by men of little understanding. Then, his one support was removed from him.

God, our Father, left him alone.

In an agony never before felt, he cried out "My God, My God! Why has thou forsaken me?" Christ had to endure being on his own; the final test required for his infinite Atonement to be complete. Then, when the deed was done, he willing gave up his spirit only to take it back and conquer death three days later. Finally, triumphant, he ascended into heaven to sit on the right hand of our Father. All this with the promise that as we follow him we may one day do the same.

I am in the midst of, what seems to be, one of the most draining trials I have experienced yet I know that, one day, I will receive relief.

It is simply the silence that one must endure alone before the storm pours out its healing rain.

Roll On --Andrew

Visions of Gratitude

I imagine that there are many of us who view life with anticipation but with large doses of reluctance as well. The choices we make, great and small, have profound effects on the people we become as well as the impact we have on those that surround us. 

Decisions never seem to elude us. Every day we wake up and stare at our kitchen cupboard wondering between the menu choices of cereal or toast. We sit in our respective classes or professions staring at the tasks we have at hand and wonder "What happens if all this goes wrong?" Or how about something a little more long term. "If I study this career will it get me to where I want to go?" or "Is he / she the one I've been waiting for all of my life?" These questions as well as many more have occupied my mind over the last few days. As a result, one particular question has frequently come back to me:

"With boundless opportunity around every corner, what causes the reluctance that accompanies every decision?"

My Answer: Vision. Allow me to elaborate.

How many of us can see the consequences of the decisions we make? I certainly cannot nor do I believe there is a person in this world who can. Humankind, by our nature, seek for the things they can see and approach with skepticism  the things they cannot. Little do many understand that the most firm things we have in this life are those that we cannot necessarily see. This is hard for many to understand simply because they have not decided to accept the unseen truth. My friends, there lies a power much greater than ourselves that, quite frankly, I cannot fully explain nor can I persuade you to believe. Believe me, I tried to do it full time for a couple of years and not everyone thought the same way.

To illustrate my point, here is a little exercise for all those who are reading. I want you to think about the most difficult, heart wrenching, make-you-cry-your-eyes-out experience that you have had. What made it so hard? What led up to it? What happened afterwards? How did you cope with it? What did you learn? What did you gain? Where would you be without it? Did or do you regret it and try and sweep it under the rug or let it become a part of you?

Now for the big question: "Considering the above thoughts, what would you have lost if you saw the results beforehand and decided not to go through with it?"

On this special day, I am so incredibly grateful for the moments I have had when I was bent over or brought to my knees to seek help from someone I have never seen but know is there. I am grateful for the gift of choice; to NOT see the road ahead and still take seemingly gigantic steps into the unknown fog of the future. I am grateful for the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and for the lessons I learn from the challenges I face each and every day.

Visions of gratitude stand before us every minute of every day. Let us take our eyes off the rocks of disbelief and cast them on the incredible possibilities that lie before us.

Roll On --Andrew

Worth

It seems like the posts are getting a little spread out again (it has been almost a month since the last one) but, as I'm sure everyone is aware, our priorities in life often are re-arranged to match our "needs" at the time.

I want each of you to take a minute to think about who you are. What makes you unique? What are your goals? What do want to achieve? Think about the things you have done, the challenges you have overcome, the blessings you have received and those you have given to other people.

You, my friend, are awesome!

Think about the impact you have in this world! Everyday you wake up, put on your pants one leg at at a time and say "I'm going to try my best today and I hope I can make it through." You can and you will because you are special! You have qualities that others don't have. You have a heart as big as gold and a mind as sharp as a surgical razor blade. You are changing the world with every minute that comes your way. What an amazing trait you have!

I have thought a lot recently on the world that we live in today. Every where around us there are things that are trying to define our self worth. What clothes you where, what music or TV show you watch. How many boys or girls want to have your number. I have fallen into the trap, as I imagine most of us have, of losing sight of the most important thing. So, you want to know the most important thing is?

You. Me. Us. We are the most important things.

We are all amazing because of who we are and the unique abilities each one of us have.

WATCH THIS (this is pretty important)

Now, I want you to imagine the impact you have on people when you identify those amazing characteristics they have. Can you imagine a world where everyone acted like this? Picked out the good from the traits the world would call mediocre or foolish? To help a person smile instead of break them down? Think about the impact of ONE minute. Of taking one minute of time to sit and talk with someone about themselves. Think about the impact of ONE compliment, of ONE small statement identifying a powerful quality that that ONE, single person has. Think of a world of smiles. What a place it would be!

But, why dream about it? Let's make it!

Take the challenge. See what you can do. Validate someone today and change the world one compliment at a time.

Roll On --Andrew

Daybreak

I think we all go into Saturday with the best of intentions to get things done. I know I do. The homework never seems to end, the house inevitably needs cleaning, laundry to be done, service to do....The list can go on forever if we let it. Yet, there seems to be one characteristic of my belief that always takes the top priority on my Saturday.

8 o'clock am temple runs.

I went there today with a question that I've had for a long time. It's one that I've asked on numerous occasions after I finish the session and am sitting pondering on the impressions I've received. Interesting enough (or maybe not so) the answer is still the same.

Wait.

But waiting is so hard.

The people who surround us are special treasures that we have been fortunate to be granted. Human interaction is amazing and so necessary to our survival (at least to mine). Yet, in search for that interaction sometimes comes that overwhelming power of loneliness. Like the feeling of walking home after failing an exam. I know one day all the loneliness will fade away like feathery watercolors on matte. Then the picture will have much more meaning.

Yet, among all of the wondering thoughts and the seemingly never ending list of desires I had this morning, God rose above them all and gave me a look at the bigger picture. The Plan of Salvation painted with the lights of the Utah valley.

Life is for living and each day is one blessing we didn't have the day before. Live for the experience of running to The Awful Waffle with roommates or taking a picture of something beautiful.

Today is a beautiful day. Love it now for when the daybreak comes tomorrow those chances will be long gone.

That's what God showed me today.

Roll On --Andrew

Hello Everyone,

 

Before my mission I loved to sit and write. When I left I decided to leave that behind to better focus my other things and expand my talents. This last week I felt the prompting to pick up my pen again and write. This will be my post for the week. I hope you enjoy it.

 

~LINES~

 

"Every artist was at first an amateur."      --Ralph Waldo Emerson

  ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Silence was the chosen soundtrack. The room smelled clean with a hint of the perfume of fresh paper and pencil shavings. As he entered the room anticipation collected on my hands in the form of cold sweat.

 

I've waited an eternity for this.

 

My mind raced as I sought to understand how the master's hand moved. Fluid and precise but seeming reckless and wild, I wondered how I would learn.

 

"Class" he said, "Pick up a pencil and draw what is on your mind. Every Master once began by simply drawing a line." The wood became warm in my hand as I began to draw and design. Slowly my dreams, desires and ambitions, rigid and black, unfolded before my eyes. He began to walk the room, smiling, nodding and watching as he saw futures begin to take shape. But when the turn was mine he said "Stop and wait. I'll be back to discuss your shapes." Confused, concerned, wanting to understand I sat

 

Patiently...

             ....Waiting...

                            ....Praying...

 

Alone. All had gone except the Master and I. After staring at my desires and dreams for what seemed to be some time, he turned to me and said, "Well done my friend you can draw a line. Any artist can draw those things created in their mind but it takes a Master to inspire humankind. Here is a box of colors, use them as you please. I will stay beside you to show you what a Master sees."

 

I picked a color from the box. It felt unfamiliar in my hand. Afraid to make just one mistake I began to make a plan. The Master said "Fear not, for I am by your side. Allow your hand to freely move. All I ask is that you try."

 

From blues and reds and yellows my piece began to change shape. the lines once drawn in anxiousness were covered with a new fate. From fear to faith, blindness to sight, a new life unfolded right before my eyes. Mistakes were made, some colors did fade but all the master said was "try." Fluid and precise but seeming reckless and wild my hands began to work. At times I would hear the Master say, " you are beginning to see my world."

 

Then it stopped.

 

The Master's hand on my shoulder told me my piece was done. With one, black line left in the middle he said "I'm proud of you my son. You allowed your lines to fade away as I turned your thoughts towards another way. Now you know my secret, my dreams, desires and love. Your work, your masterpiece, is accepted from above."

 

Every artist can draw their thoughts and dreams, or simple, rigid lines. But it takes the colors of the master to make our pieces divine.

 

-----------End-----------

 

I have come to understand the Atonement in some unique and incredible ways over the last month or so. It has been a fight against Satan, the foe of all. I love my Savior and I know he is my friend. He has helped me through more trials than I can ever count or make up. I know that this life is a simple testing ground. A place where we can show our faith and strive to do our very best. I know we all make mistakes, I myself make plenty of them, but I know that we can be forgiven by putting our trust in the one who has redeemed us. I know the gospel is true. Jesus Christ is our Savior, and I know that one day we can stand with him with our families to live in eternal joy. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

 

Have a great week!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hey Everybody,

 

Another week. Another post. This will be one of the last posts that I send home seeing that my time as a consecrated servant of the Lord is coming to a close. Luckily I still have a few weeks left!

 

The week turned out nothing like we had hoped or planned for. All of our baptismal dates dropped us as well as most of our investigators. It resulted in us doing lots of finding and riding in the 110 + degree days. Nevertheless, I learned some very valuable lessons, a couple of which I would like to share with you this week.

 

I remember back in March when my companion, Elder Bingham, was preparing to go home. We passed through a similar situation. The work slowed, he got very sick, and we had a million things to do in the office before he left. He expressed to me that he was curious what the Lord was trying to teach him. He loved to be among the people teaching them the gospel and there he was bound down by other responsibilities that needed to be completed. I will never forget that he never once complained but did his "duty" diligently. I know for myself it was an incredible demonstration of love for the Lord. As I have gone through similar experiences I have often thought about the Savior and the amount of diligence he showed at the end of his mission. I have covenanted with Heavenly Father that I would give myself for two entire years. I promised that I would be diligent, charitable, and obedient for the entire time. I can say that last week started my trial of diligence and I did my best to work through the hard times.

 

I also learned an incredible lesson on the Atonement and the changing power of charity. I sometimes find myself running so fast and so far ahead of the pack that I leave others behind. But instead of going back to help them along the way I stand far ahead in the trail expecting them to make it on their own. I learned that charity is not allowing yourself to get too far ahead but to allow yourself to steadily and diligently work towards the prize. The real success isn't in reaching the destination fast but by reaching it in wisdom. I feel like I can say that the next few weeks will bring about great levels of growth in me and for those I serve. I know I have been sent here for many reasons and now it is my responsibility to complete them with the Lord instead of depending on my own abilities.

 

I really love my mission. It is the most incredible experience I have had in my life. I feel as Alma felt in Alma 29. I don't look forward for the end of this month but I know it will come. I use it to motivate to work harder, to talk to one more person, to extend one more baptismal invitation, to be obedient, charitable, and kind. I use it as a timeline, a motivator, to do the work of the Lord while I can. I know the transition will be difficult but one thing I have come to understand and will never deny is that the Savior will help me through whatever change is necessary. This gospel is true, Jesus Christ is our savior, and we all have a part in Heavenly Father's Plan of Happiness. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

June 27, 2011

Hello Hello!

 

First things first. It is BLAZIN' hot down here! This whole last week it was between 105 and 115 during the day and in the low (maybe) 90's in the evening time. Our little home doesn't have air conditioning (but it does have a swamp cooler) so on average it is in the high 80's inside our house. Talk about an awesome story right! It has been so hot that the wind feels like a blow dryer on your face and your eyes feel like they are going to burn out of your head. I am SOO glad that somebody invented sunglasses.

 

This week started off really well but trailed off towards the end. I personally have had to come to understand the Atonement a lot deeper in my life and to accept that I can only do so much. I feel like I have a million more things I want to finish but have no time to do them all (WHICH, I don't) but I have re-focused myself on the most important: living my purpose every day by inviting everyone to be baptized and to make Montana del Sur a missionary ward. I also received some very specific council from one of my leaders through a blessing to focus on growing my testimony of the Atonement by developing more charity towards my fellowmen. I will admit, that is one of my weaknesses. I run at a very high velocity and (most of the time) do not like to slow down for mistakes. It's been a growing process for me over the past two years and I'm still far from perfect. But, perfection was never meant to be obtained here in this life.

 

Speaking of the Atonement, I was reading in the book of Mosiah a few days ago and re-read chapter 14. The spirit touched me so strong as I read it that I began to understand the love our Heavenly Father and especially our Savior, Jesus Christ, has for us. There is a verse that I want to share with you this week. It is found in verse 5.

 

"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed."

 

With this talk I would also like to refer you to the talk titled "Beauty for Ashes: The Atonement of Jesus Christ" by Bruce C. Hafen. I cannot begin to explain how much I love my Savior. I am such a weak person of the flesh and I recognize every day I have more and more imperfections. It is such an amazing thing to think that one day I will be made perfect, to be able to stand in the presence of my Savior and my Father in Heaven knowing that I have done my best.

 

I'm not trunky but I simply want to say that these last two years have shown me a lot about myself and about how I work. But, more than anything it has shown me of what I can become. I have loved every minute of my mission. I have had many experiences: some where difficult but many were pleasant. I will not go home ashamed of the work that I have done. I will feel as Paul, able to say " I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." (2 Timothy 4:7). This is the Lord's work and he has called me to stand in his place, to say and do the things he wants said and done, to work mircles by faith in his name, and to bring others back into HIS fold. There is no greater joy found than that of spreading the gospel. To those members who have stayed faithful in reading my blog and especially to my brothers and father: Never woose out to open your mouth to spread the gospel. Your missions, no mission, ends when you walk of the plane. You may never have the mantle of a consecrated servant again but you have the mantle of the gospel, of the priesthood and you, I, must always live to this call. I love my Saviour, he is my master, my brother, and my friend. That we may all look to him for guidance in this stormy life so we can move onward and upward to eternal life is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hey Everybody!

Another day to e-mail home and another week to report on. It was full of changes actually with some pretty cool experiences thrown into the mix. Here's a rundown of what happened.

We found out last Monday that my companion, Elder Jeffs, was being transferred from the area so P-day was filled with packing and happy/sad good-byes. We attended our ward Noche de Hogar so we were able to get all of the good-byes out of the way without lots of travel. Always a blessing in a bike area.

Tuesday was transfer day. And with it came my new companion. There were actually quite a few changes made to the Spanish program. My new companion, Elder Armstrong, and I have actually served in the same ward before so the "get to know you time" was pretty short. He is an incredible Elder with a great drive to work; a necessary quality to have to conquer Montana del Sur. Our ward is at the point of exploding, it is such an exciting time to be here. I am praying that we can reach 30 baptisms by the end of next month. We have about 15 more to go but all three areas have excellent investigators right now. I was talking with our Obispo and told him to get ready for a flood of converts, the start of which he already saw. We had 10 baptisms in 6 weeks. These coming 6 weeks look to have the same omen.

The rest of the week was busy with other meetings, bike issues, as well as serious finding efforts. We re-contacted a family we found about 3 weeks ago and had a great lesson one with them. I remember so clearly how strong the spirit was when I stopped to contact them. They have a couple of different points of view but seem to accept and understand everything we have taught them. We are going to put a huge focus on them in the coming week to be able to get them baptized quickly. We are also starting to work with a couple of great part member families that hopefully will produce some quick fruit. All in all I have no complaints.

For the more spiritual side of things, the past couple of weeks I have been pondering the idea of interruptions; when God decides to change things in our life to carry out his purposes. As I have been pondering the subject I began to realize that our life is full of interruptions. Some of which are caused by our own choices. Many times we look at these interruptions as bothers; things that cause us to feel uncomfortable or disturb our status quo. I know I have experienced my share of interruptions. Life certainly was never meant to be easy but when we begin to blame God for the things that have happened we need to take a step back and look at the things we can learn from these times. We should also take into consideration the protecting power of the covenants we have made with our Heavenly Father. He promises to bless us with those things if we simply keep his commandments and follow the council that he gives us. DO NOT get caught up in the things you cannot control and focus on the things you can. As you do so the path will appear much more clear.

I'm not quite sure I felt inspired to share that but I certainly hope it helps somebody today. I need to head out for now but know that you are in my prayers and may the Lord's choicest blessings fall upon each of you according to your obedience to the commandments.

Love,

Elder Klemme

June 13, 2011

Hey Everyone,

 

Last week was incredible. By lack of time I can't explain everything but I will do my best to summarize the week.

 

Every week that I have been down here I have had an experience that has helped me realize the power of the gospel in our lives. This last week the experience came at our baptism for a part member family that had been investigating since last October. My current companion, who just discovered today that he was being transferred, found them his first week in the area.

 

From the first visit it was an uphill battle to help this family learn to love and live the gospel. The husband, less active at the time, had about as big of a testimony as the rest of the family so, it wasn't easy.

 

The family progressed little by little but would never accept a baptism date. There always seemed to be an underlying doubt that was preventing them to move forward. Until, the husband had a heart attack. The family was humbled in a very extreme manner. The heart attack resulted in a triple-bipass surgery and lots of time bedrest. Unemployment and dependency on others became necessary. And the ward responded like any hero would.

 

The time following the attack resulted in extreme spiritual growth. They started to pray and study the scriptures together, they recognized the spirit more and more in our visits to them, and testimonies started to blossom. It was at that point that the Lord sent me into their life.

 

I take no credit for the things that have happend with that family. There is a part of me that had been prepared to help this family finally make the commitment to live the gospel and accept baptism. I remember so vividly the feeling I had as I left their home following our baptismal date lesson. I knew that the 3 weeks leading up to Friday would be a straight uphill battle. It would not be easy. It wasn't, but it was worth the fight.

 

Veronica, Norma (17), and Susana (12) Munoz entered the waters of baptism and were confirmed on June 10th, 2011. Now they are starting their journey to the temple where they will be sealed as an eternal family. The ward has completely enveloped them in their arms and has not intentions of loosening it's grip. Neither do we.

 

There have been instances on my mission where I have wondered why I was where I was or curious as to what I was meant to do. I have no doubts, zero, as to what I was sent here for. I discover new things every single day. I love the mission. I love it with all my heart and I know that, up to this day, it has been the best decision I have ever made.

 

I appreciate the love and support of all those who have stood behind me over the past 2 years. The time goes by so quickly and, deep down, I really don't want to leave. This city, my mission...it is my home. I imagine this is what heaven is like. I have learned so much....so incredibly much, about the love of our Savior and the truthfulness of the Plan of Salvation. I know that I was sent here for a very specific reason. I have done the Lord's will and know that when that eventual day comes, I can stand resolutely and say, "I HAVE NO REGRETS." Brothers and Sisters, the gospel life is the good life. There is nothing better out there in the world. Those who believe otherwise obviously don't understand what we have. I invite each of you to live the teachings of Christ. Live it and love it. I know I do.

 

Well, I need to leave but know that each of you are in my prayers. I know that this is the Lord's Gospel. This is his church and he is leading and guiding us through life's troubles so we can, one day, obtain eternal happiness. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hello All!

 

In short, it was a great week filled with great spiritual insights and awesome spiritual experiences. The Lord blesses us with what we need in order to help us progress. Every day I realize more and more as to why the Lord sent me back to Montana del Sur. I wish I could share with you all the things but I will only have time to identify a few.

 

1-WE HAD A BAPTISM!! (See Picture) This last week our investigator Rosalio left the hospital and told us "Well, I need to get my mind of things. I need to get ready to be baptized this Saturday." So, that is what he did. And he was baptized in one of the most spiritual baptismal services I have had my whole mission. When he bore his testimony during the service he was struggling to speak because he was SOO happy. He is a very special convert.

 

2-Temple Groundbreaking! After three years the church finally broke ground for the Phoenix Arizona Temple. It was so incredible...especially for someone who had to travel halfway across a state to attend the temple. I cannot wait to be able to come back and enter in, knowing that I myself played a role in it's construction. President and Sister Beck were in attendance and had the opportunity to participate in the ceremony.

 

3-Sacrament meeting was huge! There were NO empty seats in our Sacrament Meeting this last week. I began to see the literal fulfillment of the vision I had when I came back to the area. Elder Jeffs and I had 11 investigators at church and the ward did SO well. We couldn't even sit by them because their fellowshippers were there in a heartbeat. I feel like we are only seeing the beginning of great things in Montana del Sur.

 

4-Personal Revelation Rocks. I received some of the sweetest personal revelation of my life this last week. I have no doubt that the Lord is preparing me for great things. I only pray that I will continue to remain faithful to the knowledge I have received so that I may be able to continue to progress towards eternal perfection.

 

Like I mentioned. It was a great week and one that brought about great internal change. I have complete faith and confidence that we will continue to see great things and look forward to participating in them a little while longer. I need to go now but I pray that each of you continue on, putting aside the cares of the world and seeking for more important things. I love each and everyone of you and have a great week!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

May 31, 2011

Hey Everybody!

 

Another week come and gone. I'm proud to say that I look forward to reading these posts I have written since I have been gone. They have probably been a lot more regular than my journal recently. Sometimes it's just hard to stay on top of some things :)

 

This last week was a little trying. Everything felt a little off but yesterday allowed me to stop and get going again. A lot like stopping a heart and re-starting it again so it beats regularly. Not exactly the most fun experience but WAY necessary. I know that this week will be filled with great experiences and ones that will really shape me into the missionary I can still become.

 

We didn't have any major meetings or events that happened this last week. Just a simple work week with a couple of exchanges. Since my time as an assistant I have reallly learned to appreciate those. There is nothing like being on bike in South Phoenix. It is incredible! I received a letter from a friend a couple of weeks ago who is getting ready to go on her mission. All I could think about was the nervous excitement that I had before I started my mission. OH how I wish I could go back to those days and start over knowing the things I know now. But, that isn't the way it is supposed to work. All I can say to her is to hang on because she is going to learn a lot. President Beck has compared the mission to that of drinking from the fire hose: It comes very fast with a very high volume. Just hang on and learn as much as you can. There is nothing like being a missionary and the best part is, it's only the beginning! The MTC is the training for the training that occurs in the mission field. The real mission field comes after the mission when you can do the REAL finding. It is going to be an incredible experience for the rest of eternity.

 

As a whole the work continue to improves in our ward and in our area. We have 16 baptisms coming up in the next 4 weeks or so. Absolutely nothing to complain about. The ward is quickly changing into a missionary focused ward. I had the opportunity to talk in church Sunday about "2 Teams, 1 Goal". I discussed about the conversion process and how each investigator needs to obtain a testimony (spiritual conversion) and be apart of the church (social conversion). I had SOO much material I wanted to cover but could only talk for about 15 minutes. I guess I just had a lot to learn on the subject. :) Apart from the talk they are allowing us to present a ward Noche de Hogar this week AND we are having some incredible member visits. I feel like we are laying the foundation for some incredible changes down here. To all those parents wondering what advice they can give to their missionary son or daughter, what I suggest is to be PROACTIVE! Attack issues head on and always try to think of new things to do or improve the old method of doing things. There are so many things that one can do to improve the work in their areas. Just go out and get it!

 

Other than that things continue to go well. It has been incredible to be back "home" in South Phoenix and we have found some awesome people. I think we will continue to see great growth. I know I have experienced some of the best and worst experiences of my life since I have been here and look forward to continuing the experience.

 

I hope you all have a great week! Remember how special you are to our Heavenly Father and look at the glass as ALWAYS full!

 

Love,

Elder Klemme

May 23, 2001

Hey Everybody,

 

It was an incredible week. Absolutely incredible. The Lord was hard at work to make sure we were able to find those that would receive us and to say the right things to help them come closer to him. We look forward to sustain the trend and know that we will continue to see progress in our area.

 

We were blessed to have four baptisms in our ward this last week, two of which came from our area. As incredible as that is, I am pleased to say that it is simply the beginning. Between all the companionships in our ward we have 14 people with a baptismal date scheduled for the month of June. And the finding is continuing to happen. We found two incredible families this past week that have huge baptismal potential. We have been praying and studying so hard for them so they can accept the restored gospel. I know that as we follow the council of our leaders and take initiative as well to follow the promptings of the spirit we will not only see them enter the waters of baptism but many more ready to receive the gospel.

 

I have had some really good personal studies this last week on the Atonement with the climax occurring today. We had our Zone Hike up South Mountain this morning which was a ton of fun. I was able to go with my great friend, Elder Ray, and do a little bit of a reflection on our mission. He has become one of the greatest people I know and I feel so privileged to have him as my Zone Leader. He, under the Lord's inspiration, has done so much to help the work progress forward and I know he has no plans of slowing down. Neither do I. There are too many things to accomplish before the inevitable return home. I find myself losing my appetite because I want to be out of the house so bad. It is such an incredible experience to be able to serve in Montana del Sur for a second time. I feel so much more prepared for the challenges we are currently facing and are in the process of fixing them quickly. I know I have been sent here for a very specific reason.

 

Anyway, back to the insight I had. I find that we often move too quickly in life without taking the chance to slow down and reflect on the things that are happening within and around us. Today, as I was descending the trail, I began to receive some incredible personal revelation regarding the Plan of Salvation and the role that I have in it. I know that the Lord gave me some very specific instruction as well as some incredible insight. I wanted sooo bad to have a pen and paper nearby to be able to record all of the things I received but, it's a little hard to write while you are on the side of a mountain. All I could do was offer a humble prayer at the end of the trail thanking Heavenly Father for the things he revealed to me as well as asking him to help me remember them long enough to write them down. I have such a testimony that God is our Heavenly Father and that he is very aware of our personal needs. SO many times we get caught up in the "Thick of thin of things" when we really need to do periodic path checks to make sure we are moving forward in the right direction. I know that the Lord loves us. I know, without a doubt, that Jesus Christ is our Savior and is the center part of Heavenly Father's plan. He wants us to live righteously with faith in him so that, one day, we can return to live with God again. Life would be impossible without his help.

 

I love being a missionary. Up to this point in my life it has been the greatest experience I have ever had. I know that life will be filled with many more if we simply put our faith in our savior and look forward, never longing to go back. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hey everybody!

To be completely honest, my desires to write letters has significantly dropped since the start of my mission. If you have sent me a letter and have not received a reply I apologize. I will do my best to respond ASAP.

I had a very interesting week and a particularly pensive morning. It is very interesting just how much you grow during a mission. My viewpoints on a lot of different things have changed and I feel like I am seeing things as they really are.

I can best explain it through an example. Before my mission I was a huge fan of music. I still am. However as I have seen what the world is becoming and realizing that I am "behind the times" on a lot of different things, I have come to the conclusion that, things are simply going to be different afterwards. At the Leadership Training Meeting we had before our last transfer meeting, President Beck shared the following quote: "You are called of God. It doesn't matter what you were before. YOU ARE DIFFERENT NOW!" That is such a true statement.

I have come to a lot of conclusions since I have been back in Montana. Being an assistant really shed a new light on my view of mission work and just what can be done to take the work to a new level. One of my favorite scriptures in the Book of Mormon talks about how small and simple things bring to pass great changes. I always knew that but, coming into a new situation I have been able to see just what small things can be done to make a huge difference in a certain area.

The gospel is such an amazing thing. It is as deep as eternity but you can study it as if it is the most simple thing in the world. I have such a testimony that this is the only true gospel in the world. There is no other place where we can find the fullness of the teachings of Jesus Christ and find the authority to complete necessary ordinances for salvation. It is such a pleasure to be able to share what I know to be true with other people and know without a doubt that there is no other place I would rather be than right here, right now. I truly believe that I have found myself as an individual. I know that I am a chosen son of God sent here with the purpose to make the world a better place and share the gospel with those searching for the truth. I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior and our Redeemer. There is no other way nor any other means by which we can be saved save it be through Christ. I know that the scriptures are the word of God and that the Book of Mormon is another Testament of Jesus Christ. I KNOW PEOPLE CAN CHANGE. They can overcome fear, they can feel of the Savior's love, and they can live with their families forever. There is nothing more important in this life than the work we will do in our homes. I know I love my family very much and I want ALL of them to be with me for eternity. I know that it is possible to break social morays to follow the example of Jesus Christ. In the end, it is pleasing the Father by following Jesus Christ that really matters. 

I love each of you. I truly do. You are each very special to our Father in Heaven.

In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hey Everybody,

 

Another week has come and gone and with it came great change. Here is the latest scoop from the APM:

 

The biggest news for the week was my release as an Assistant to the President. I was transferred on Tuesday to return to my old area of Montana del Sur West and to serve as a District Leader to finish my mission. I have received such a spiritual confirmation that this is what the Lord would have me do at this stage of my mission and know he will continue to sustain me in my new calling. The missionaries in my district are absolutely incredible; the hardest working group I think that exists in the whole mission. It is such a pleasure to serve with each and every one and to learn and grow with them. My new companion, Elder Eric Jeffs, has been out for nearly a year and is my grandson. Elder Giles, my first trainee, trained Elder Jeffs my first transfer as an assistant. He is an incredible missionary and know that this is where the Lord would has us serve together. He knows the area very well and has such a deep love for "our" people in the area. We are going to have a great transfer!

 

When I walked into the church last Tuesday to "meet" the auxiliary presidents every one of them was shocked but excited to have me back. It is a rare occasion that a missionary gets to return to an old area and continue his labor. I had such a powerful experience that night as I envisioned the chapel full of members, returning members, and investigators focused on obtaining all the blessings heavenly father wants them to have. I am so excited to baptize like crazy down here. I want it known to the people here as well as those back home that I, Elder Klemme, WILL NOT SLOW DOWN. IT WILL BE A SPRINT TO THE FINISH!!!

 

We met some incredible people this week and had some very spirit filled lessons. The Lord has and is continuing to prepare so many people to receive the restored gospel and I feel so incredibly blessed to be that tool they need to have it. We, I, will see miracles.

 

I don't have any funny or awesome stories to share. The big news is already said. The only other thing worth mentioning was my chance to call home again yesterday. It always gives you a bit of a boost and I know my family really enjoyed it. It is such a blessing to have a family that fully supports you in your decision to serve a mission. They have helped me enormously during my time of service. And to those I couldn't talk with yesterday, THANK YOU!!!

 

Well, that is about it for now. I hope and pray that each and every one of you will have a great and safe week and I will talk to you all soon.!!

 

Love,

Elder Klemme

May 2, 2011

Hey Everyone,

Another week in the Arizona Phoenix Mission and WOW it was a wowzer! I think I went the whole week wearing a suit. It was great, busy, and most definitely exciting. It is going to be a great couple of months.

A couple of weeks ago President gave Elder Miles and I a responsibility to work with some of the zone leaders to put together a calendar that would help investigators see their progress towards baptism. We put a good time in on it and had the opportunity to present it this last week in a Zone Leader Council, Leadership Training, and a Mission-wide Specialized Training. Something I have learned throughout my time as an assistant is that real results won't be seen until a few weeks or months down the road. However the feedback that we were receiving all week has shown that we are headed in the right direction. It looks like May is going to be a dynamite month. This week we were looking at having 43 baptisms with 159 people with a baptismal date for the month. Say what you will, the mission is going to explode!

We also are gearing up for transfers again. Our meeting is tomorrow in which will come some pretty neat changes, none of which I can say until next week. I have felt the spirit very strong during this transfer process and know that what is going to happen is in line with the Lord's will. It is such a powerful experience to see President and Sister Beck at work during transfer week as they make changes in the mission. I've learned a lot by watching them.

On another positive note, we had 4 investigators at Sacrament Meeting including a family we have been working with for a LOOOOOOOONG time. They paid their tithing for the first time EVER after the block. It has been interesting to watch them in their conversion process. Hopefully we will be able to get them baptized soon but first we have some marriage things to take care of. We'll see if we can't get them baptized before the end of the month.

In other news, I have had the worst allergies of my life this past week. I don't know what it is about this spring but I just haven't been able to stop sneezing! Luckily antihistamines are cheap as well as saline solution but still, it hasn't been a fun experience.

Well, I understand that it is a little short but there isn't a lot to report on. This will be a great week filled with excellent opportunities that I will fill you in on everything next week. Have an excellent week and I will talk to you all again soon!

Love,

Elder Klemme

April 25, 2011

Hey All,

 

I don't have a lot ot time to write this week but I do want to share an experience that I had just yesterday.

 

It is so incredible to look back on the past and see where you have come from. I remember at the beginning of my mission not even carrying around a Book of Mormon in my hand to now, I can't leave our truck without one. I also remember how nerve-wracking it was to extend a baptismal commitment to someone whereas now...Well, that's the story :)

 

We have started to place a huge focus on living our purpose by extending daily baptismal commitments in our mission. Elder Miles and I studied a talk a couple of weeks ago and are just running on a type of spiritual high that has allowed us to extend a baptismal commitment every single day. Just yesterday I had a very interesting opportunity to do so. Our Gospel Principles teacher didn't show up to give the class so the Sunday School President asked me at the last minute to give it. We talked about how we as members of the church are covenenat making people. We talked about our first covenant, baptism, and our weekly covenenat the Sacrament. The spirit was very strong in the class...one of the strongest I have felt since I have been a missionary. So, following the spirit by taking advantage of the opportunity I invited all four investigators in the class to "Follow the example of Jesus Christ by being baptized by one holding the Priesthoold authority of God." I know it was a great experience for me and one that helped me realize that there really isn't a time when we can't talk about baptism. Even in Gospel Principles class you can invite people to be baptized.

 

That was my experience of the week. I know that as we are examples to those who are around us we will be able to help others to come unto Christ by entering the waters of baptism. I invite each of you to think about those things that you can do to share the gospel with your friends this coming week. I know that as you do so you will begin to experience the abounding joy that comes as you share the gospel. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

April 18, 2011

Hey Everyone,

 

This last week was one of the best but busiest of my mission. We had Zone Conference on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday and did 6 exchanges as well, the most I have ever done in a single week. Needless to say today was a welcomed rest from the hustle and bustle and now we are looking forward to another busy week. I have come to the firm conclusion that a life is so much better when it is full of the important things.

 

I wish that time would allow me to recount some of the powerful experiences that I had this last week but, unfortunately, time is not our ally. I simply want to summarize it with this phrase:

 

"Go into it fully invested"

 

A mission is a once and a lifetime experience that requires our whole self. We cannot go into it with one foot at home and one foot in the mission field. Even when we do reach a point when we are fully in the field it requires diligent effort to stay focused and devoted to your cause. This past Monday I had a powerful personal study that really prepared me for the experiences that I had this week. And every day had the exact same story. Every personal study I had geared me for at least one of the many people I talked to during that day. I was a witness to countless miracles given at the hand of our Heavenly Father. I was led to people who were looking for the gospel. I felt the Holy Ghost work through me to say the things that Heavenly Father wanted said. I was able to stand as a witness to the infinite and eternal Atonement of Jesus Christ, able to see the pain that has gripped a lady for over a year following the death of her son. I was able to receive personal revelation during the partaking of the Sacrament and lastly I was able to reflect on the personal progress that I have made as a missionary. I love my calling with all my heart and am so eternally grateful for the chances that I have had to share it with other people.

 

For all of those future missionaries my advice is to "Go Into it Fully Invested." Prepare yourselves now to leave the world behind and focus on the task that is ahead of you. Don't waste a minute thinking of things outside of sharing the gospel. Trust me, the Lord will provide..

 

I know that this is the work of God and that there is no other work more important on the face of this earth. Have a great week and I will talk to you soon!

 

Love,

Elder Klemme

April 11, 2011

Hey Everyone,

I really don't have a lot to report on this week. We are going through a pretty tough spell of finding solid investigators. We basically had to drop our whole teaching pool this last week for one reason or the other. We definitely have room for improvement and we are willing to work ourselves dead tired until we can get our area running on a higher level.

I had a very interesting but powerful experience this week that I wanted to share. It will take up most of my post for this week. It was a testimony to me of the power of staying worthy to listen to the spirit and acting when a prompting is received. Here is what happened:

I was on exchanges in my area on Tuesday with one of the Zone Leaders in the mission. We were trying to contact some former and future investigators we had found in our area book the night before. For some reason NOBODY we put down in our plans was home. We were down to our last two options when, sitting at a stop light, I saw a neighborhood across the street where we were at and I felt "I wonder if there are any gente in there" (Gente is "People" in English). When the light turned green I drove across and started driving down the street and told my companion "Look for things that look hispanic (mops outside houses, aloe vera plants, red curtains, toys in the yard, the list goes on). We drove for about 2-3 minutes when I pulled up to another stop sign. I was looking to turn back onto the main road when the spirit told me "Don't turn left!" (which was the way I was wanting to go) and I couldn't go straight so, I started turning right. As I completed the turn the spirit said again "Stop! Get out and tract here." We pulled the truck over, said a small prayer confirming the prompting I had felt, and started tracting the street. The first house we knocked on was a high school kid from Croatia. He was Christian, a football star, and a pretty smart kid. As we asked him if he had visited one of our churches before he began telling us of the various times he had gone with his friend to mutual and once to Sunday meetings. I thought it was a good contact until he said, "Actually my friend said that he was going to send the missionaries over to talk. That's why you are here right?" I was shocked to hear that and simply said, "No, he didn't but we are glad to find you!" He told us a time to come by later on the week and we left on our way. Nobody else opened their door, just him.

I am so grateful for the chance that I had to be an instrument in Heavenly Father's hands. My testimony of patience has grown significantly this last week. I know that there are times when the work is a little rougher and we need to pass through a bit of the refiners fire. BUT, the Lord always compensates us for the trials we go through. I know that, if not for anything else but to strengthen my own testimony, we were supposed to find that joven. 

That is my message for the week. No matter what happens, white knuckle the iron rod and keep pressing forward. The future is as bright as your faith (Monson). I hope that everyone has a great week and until next time ! Que Dios les bendiga en su camino!

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

April 4, 2011

Hey Everybody,

Not a lot of time to write but here it goes.

Talk about an incredible General Conference! I think this was the best Conference I have ever attended. I could not believe how many references there were to member missionary work! I know that the General Authorities are inspired. It is so true, it is a million times easier to find, teach, and baptize the sons and daughters of God when they come from a member's referral. I hope that each of you prayerfully consider who of your acquaintances is ready to listen to the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ.

This week was a great week. I had the opportunity to go on a couple of exchanges back in my old zone and had some INCREDIBLY spiritual experiences. During my Friday exchange, I had one of the most amazing lessons of my mission. The spirit was incredibly strong, the member was a perfect match for the investigator, and the companion I was with taught in perfect harmony. The entire family accepted a baptismal date for the 30th of this month. I know that the Lord works in great ways to bring salvation to his children.

Also in the news this week, we had our first 100 degree day of the year last Friday. In parts of Phoenix it reached 103 degrees and in most parts there was a high of 98. I have this feeling like this summer is going to be a hot one. I'm very excited to work in it.

I also had the opportunity to study a talk this morning given 5 years ago by Elder Cecil O. Samuelson of the Seventy. It was titled "What does the Atonement mean to you?" In this talk he refers to the 19th section of the Doctrine and Covenants where the Savior explains the pain he faced during the course of the Atonement. Following his review of the section, Elder Samuelson makes the following statement:

"That Jesus experienced what He experienced, not because He couldn’t avoid it but because He loves us, is sobering indeed." 

If we truly think about it, there was nothing in the scriptures that Christ had to go through his suffering. He made a conscious choice to endure what he endured. Because of his righteous use of agency he was able to loose the bands of physical and spiritual death for all mankind.

Now, referring back to a previous statement I made. I challenge each of you to take some time and ponder what the Atonement really means to you. Write down your impressions. Then, prayerfully consider who you can share your testimony with. It is our sacred privilege to be able to know what we know as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is also our privilege to be able to share our testimony with others. I know that the joys and blessings of missionary work are very real. I know of the happiness that comes when one more sheep decides to enter into the fold of Christ. I invite each of you to take part in this joy, to open your mouths, so that others may receive the blessings that we ourselves have. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Hey Everyone,

 

Talk about a fast and busy week! It seems like forever ago that I wrote home but it was only last week! Here is the latest news from the APM.

 

We had our transfer week and I took my companion, Elder Bingham, home. It was hard to see him go but I knew that he had done his "duty" and is ready for life after the mission. With that being said, I have a new companion! And everyone who has followed my blog during my mission will recognize the name. I'm serving with Elder Miles again, my old Zone Leader companion from my Phoenix days. He is a lighting fast learner and is going to do an incredible job at being an assistant.

 

This week has been filled with growing and learning experiences. I really began to understand more profoundly the quote "There is no comfort in a growing zone and there is no growing in a comfort zone." Being the "senior" assistant for the last week has taught me a lot and I have been able to identify a lot of skills that I need to develop or sharpen. A little overwhelming but an incredible experience. We are going to have a great transfer with lots of meetings and exchanges. I think that is one thing I have really learned on the mission. It is ALWAYS better to be busy than to not have enough to do.

 

The work has slowed a bit but we were not able to dedicate a large amount of time to our proselyting area. Unfortunately we had a couple of investigators drop us on Saturday so we are back to a re-building stage. On the brighter side, our investigator Marta went to church yesterday with her family so she is progressing very well. She has a baptismal date for the 23rd of April. We had a lesson with her yesterday where we talked about the restoration that she just loved. After recounting the first vision she just said, "Wow...you know, it says that not a lot of people have ever seen the face of God....Joseph Smith must have been a really special and chosen person to be able to have that experience." I think she understands it very well :). Our next step with her is to help her son be able to enjoy the Spanish branch and learn in primary (he doesn't speak or understand spanish very well.)

 

Other than that we have been staying busy and have a great week up ahead. I look forward to being able to work with some of the missionaries in the mission and helping my new companion learn his responsibilities. It is going to be a great month and a great transfer no doubt! But, that was our week. The Lord truly sustains us in our weakness and gives us challenges to help us grow. The gospel knowledge we have in absolutely incredible and it is such a joy to be able to share it with others. I hope that you all have a great and safe week!

 

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hey everyone,

This will be a shorter post this week. Not a lot to report on but some things worth noting.

We worked through the finding mud quite a bit this last week. It took us quite a few referrals and a few hours tracting but we were able to find some pretty solid people. We actually contacted this lady who referred herself to the missionaries about a week ago. She has taken the missionary discussions before but decided that now it was time to take them again and prepare to be baptized. We set her baptismal date for the 23 of April and it is looking like she is going to keep it. We are pretty excited for her and know she will soon be a very strong member.

In other news, there isn't a lot to report on. We have our transfers tomorrow and I will be taking my companion of 10 months, Elder Bingham, to the airport. Talk about a tough experience for me. I don't think I have spent this amount of time with anyone else in my life (except maybe my parents and siblings.) One gets attached to someone when you are with them that long. So it seems like I am taking a brother home, not just a companion. It has been one of the greatest blessings of my life to have served with Elder Bingham and will be eternally grateful for the things I learned from him. He has made a huge impact on my life.

With the departure of my current companion, I was pondering yesterday on the idea of change. This is what I came up with in small words:

Change is what makes us understand the Atonement.

Think about it, we would never know pain from joy, progression from digression, learning, knowledge, NOTHING. We would never understand anything. We must go through change in order to become the people our Heavenly Father needs us to be. It is an essential part of life. So my question is, how do we endure change? Well, the best answer I can give is this: Put your trust, your faith, in God and lean not onto thy own understanding and press forward with patience and diligence. God's ways are not our ways and he will know how to guide us through those tough changes in our life.

I know that our Savior Jesus Christ loves us very much, as does Heavenly Father. Our life on this earth is just a temporary change, a necessary experience for us to be able to enjoy a fullness of the blessings God wants to give us. We are his children and he loves us very much. I know that my savior lives and that he loves me. He is my Lord and King. I know I can trust in him to guide me through times of trouble, heartache, and change. Isaiah puts it best, "Beauty, for ashes". In his sacred name, even Jesus Christ, Amen.

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

Hey Everyone,

I had the most interesting revelatory experience last night. Here is what happened: 

I think as members of the church we lose sight of the blessings of the gospel and, most specifically, The Book of Mormon. There is such an incredible power in that book. The truths it teaches us are priceless and give us the guidance we need to have in our lifetime. Yet, how often do we simply overlook that power, just reading the words and pages without thinking of the application they have in our life. We read to read, to fulfill what is in our minds an "obligation." What a terrible mindset to have about such a sacred book!

During my dream last night I was in a teaching appointment talking about The Book of Mormon and the importance it has for us today. At one point in the discussion the investigator said, "I already believe the church is true. It is the only one that makes sense." I then asked, "Have you read The Book of Mormon?" to which she responded, "I never have." At that point, I remember looking at the copy I had in my hand, looking at her, and saying, "Hermana, you cannot be converted to the gospel without reading this book. You will join and will struggle because you will not be fully converted. You will believe, but you will not know."

Brothers and Sisters, I love the Book of Mormon with all my heart. There is no other book more precious to me. I just finished reading it again...and again I changed my perspective of the Gospel, of the truthfulness of our message. There is an incredible power that is found in the Book of Mormon. So my question is, what are we doing to make it part of lives? Are we reading just to read? Are we reading because we have to? Or are we reading because we want to? Because we value it's great worth?

I know that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. There is nobody that can convince me otherwise. This book with bring a man closer to God. It will change his life. It has the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ. To me, it is a priceless treasure and one that I will cherish forever. I invite each of you do drink deeply from the pages of the Book of Mormon every day. Read it. Live it. Love it. I promise you that heaven's blessings will fall upon you in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Sincerely,

Elder Klemme

February 28, 2011

Hey everyone,

I don't have a lot of time today to write but I do have some pictures to post up. I hope you enjoy them.

We had a pretty busy week this past week that ended with an awesome baptism. For the first time I have been a missionary all three areas in the branch I'm serving in baptized. In all honesty it was one of the best baptismal services I have been to while I have been on my mission. It sure is an awesome feeling to see your area and ward/branch grow stronger and stronger.

Here is the list for the baptisms:

1-La Familia Urrea: We found Luis and Lupe off a HQ referral. They had been taught basically everything when we first contacted them and were baptized three weeks. Their service was nice with good attendance. Now, one month later, they are 100% active and participating as much as possible in the branch.

2-Teresa de Jesus Ruiz: This lady has an incredible story. We found her when we received two referrals the same day to go visit her. It took us about 4 months (since November) but she finally entered the waters of baptism. I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to help her come unto Jesus Christ and to see the miraculous change that occurred in her.

3-How Great is the Joy: The 3 companionships and the baptizees at our baptism this past Saturday. There was tons of ward support for these three wonderful souls. They will bring a lot to the table and are great additions to our ever growing branch.