"as if a candle or gasoline had been thrown into a fire"

Hey Pop!

Great to hear from you, I'm more grateful than anything to read a
letter from my old man more than anything. There's so much taking
place here, I don't know where to start and where to end! There's
going to be 3 baptisms this coming Saturday, and I feel so blessed to
have been the one to invite those 3 to enter this new sacred covenant
with their Heavenly Father. I feel the power of your prayers. Thank
you so much for keeping me in your busy busy mind throughout your day,
because I rely greatly on the strength of you all back home. These
baptisms would certainly not be taking place if it weren't for the
added strength I get from back home. That's been confirmed to me over
and over again as I work everyday. :)

I thought I'd share a spiritual experience with you as well:
Ever since I arrived in the MTC, I didn't know I had my patriarchal
blessing on me (I failed to noticed that my wise and diligent mother
stored it in the binder with my shot records...). With that, I was
yearning to read my patriarchal blessing, so I made plans every week
to request them so I can read it. For some reason, I'd always forget!
Up until 2 mornings ago when I was getting ready. I was grabbing the
clothes I was going to wear for the day when I saw the binder sitting
there in my closet. I decided to open and look at it just to see what
was inside. I found a dead spider in one of the pockets... my mission
call, and then I flipped the page and found my patriarchal blessing! I
was so excited and read it right away. It was so strong, my blessing,
and I remembered the feelings I felt inside when I had first heard all
the promised blessings Heavenly Father has waiting for me. I was so
enlightened and encouraged, and even though I was motivated to do
great before, I am even more motivated now, like as if a candle or gasoline 
had been thrown into a fire, to do much better and continue to improve. It came
at such a perfect time. I knew that Heavenly Father was telling me
that these 3 upcoming baptisms aren't the end of my work, and it was
only just the beginning of many many more great things to come!

So, in short, my game face was on, but now I have war paint! HAIL!
(Saying that in Tyler Harris' voice... hahaha!)

Anyways, hope you're not too busy with callings, work, and errands :)
I remember how you were never too busy for me. I
thought about how much time I could have and should have spent when I
was home. Those moments where you get home and watch tv by yourself
would have been perfect moments to sit next to you and just soak in
the relaxing ambiance and laugh about something weird (because you
always say something weird...) and share your memories from the dino
days. Love you pops!

HOORAH HOORAH FOR ISRAEL!

Elder Sablan Jr.

Wrapping up my first month! A True Filipino I'm becoming to be. . .

Whew!  So just wrapping up my first month here in the PI and I learn everyday!  I never though I'd say this. . .but, I'm becoming more FILIPINO!  HA!HA!HA!  It's in my roots after all. . .I love the Pilipino people and the people I serve...

I realized as I was washing dishes one day that I can't teach the people if I'm not a part of them... I was told I didn't have to and also discourage that learning Ilocano at the same time of learning Tagalog will confuse me. . .but, I feel so inspired to learn.  I feel that it'll help the people trust me when I share my thoughts and testimony with them as I try to help them.  My companion and I continue to learn and it takes so much courage to talk to people that I can't hardly understand.  But, whenever I open my mouth, I trust that I'll be filled with words to say. 

Time seems to be going muuuch faster since I decided to change my attitude and focus more about the mission.  Things are more clear, I can see ahead, and I know how to help people better!  I'm excited for the coming month!  There's a baptism on the 9th and 2 more on the 16th.  With the help of my Savior and the Holy Ghost, I've invited this beautiful couple and young sister to change their lives and enter into a covenant with our Heavenly Father.  There's a few more that have been invited but, my companion and I are steadily preparing 'em.  It's a lot of work!  Faith in Jesus Christ isn't as easy as I thought. . .true conversation is one's decision.  I've never experienced that until right before my mission.  Until then, I cling on so desperately to the strength that others had in the gospel.  I pray so hard every day and night for our investigators to receive the message.  It works some days, and harder on next. . .but the work is going great.  I hope to see a huge spurt in the growth of my branch here as my companion and I do our best to work!

FOOD?  It's weird, my companion (who is amerikano) would cook rice and a filipino dish like sinigang, adobo, and other stuff like that. . .and the days I cook comes out burgers and fries. . .ganun. lol

So far, I'm good and I'm learning how to be frugal.  Missionaries have an abundance of support compare to the local people. . .it humbles me and I do my best to live providently.  I don't need the extras. . .I just need the basic.

Anyways, I love you all!  My companion and I are schedule to go the city next week, so I'll develop some pictures and send them home.

Thank you for keeping your commitments!  As you continue to keep the commandments of daily prayer and scripture study by yourself and as a family, you will reap the blessings from heaven and God will open doors of inspiration, strength and wisdom to you all if you continue to do it everyday!

Ingat lahat kayo. 

Love Always,
Elder Sablan

Family & Friends

Family and Friends

About the PI- It's been pretty switchy with the weather around hear. Some days it rains, some days it shines. Either eay, I thought it'd be worse! Lol! I love my area though. The Branch is small, with about 60 to 80 active members a week. My comp and I are looking for more ways to progress the work hear, because we both know, and especially me, that this area has a very very special spirit about it. God loves the Sta. Teresita Branch! I just know it. My tagalog is... mmm... well... kind of tagalog. Lol! I wasn't too surprised, but a lot of people here understand english. I'm not sure why, but they just do. Even with that, I try to use as much tagalog as I possibly can, pero, hindi masyado pa... Lol. I've amped up my goals this week to try and improve my skills faster, we'll see where that takes me. Really random, but, me and my comp killed a rat this morning... it was about 5:30am when my comp woke me up. There was a brown out in our area, and he said he heard something in the bucket that woke him, so we went to go see, and it was a rat! It kept trying to jump out of the bucket, (and let me just say... rats got michael jordan kind of hops...) so we doused him in this poison thing all missionaries are issued to killed bugs, left him outside in the bucket, then fell asleep for about an hour. Lol... yeah... it died... I felt bad, but, we both didn't want it in the house! So yeah. The end. There's a lot of things that would make me come back here and visit. I wish I could've packed you all in my carry on so you could really get of a feel of the things I see everyday. With that, I will bear my testimony in Tagalog to close.

Kaibigan at pamilya ko, maraming salamat para sa panalangin at suporta ninyo. Nagpapasalamat ko po para sa lahat ninyo, at and mga biyaya araw araw galing sa panalangin ninyo. Alam ko po na, nagbebless ng dios sa akin dahil maraming mga reason. Alam ko po, Ang simbahan ni jesucristo ng mga banal sa mga huling araw ay totoo. Nagdasal ako tungkol ito, at nagtanggap ko ang sagot mula sa dios. Nagdarasal pa rin ako para sa lahat kayo, at humingi ako para sa dios pagpalain lahat kayo. Alam ko po and aklat ni mormon ay salita ng dios at si jesucristo, at ang aklat ni mormon ay naglalaman ng kabuuan ng ebanghelyo. Tunay ang dios at si jesucristo, and buhay pa rin. Mahal na mahal tayo ng dios, talagang, talaga. May pananampalataya ako sa dios, at ibinibigay siya sa akin ang akin kalakasan. Mahal na mahal kita ko lahat kayo. Suwerte na suwerte rin!

Sabi ko ang mga bagay na ito, sa pangalan ng anak ng dios, ni jesucristo, ang tagapagligktas natin,

Amen

Elder Sablan

A very heartfelt letter from my son. . .I just had to share

Mom, Let me tell you first how blessed I am to have you in my life. I don't think I've ever thanked you enough... ever! And I don't know when I ever wil completely be able to. I've been trying to deny myself and remain strong, but the simple truth is, I'm so homesick. I figured the first thing I needed to do to get over it is admit it. I've been really good at keeping up with my journal lately ever since the MTC, and my experiences are very valued so far. Last night, I finally got sick of myself. I told myself that I decided to do this. I decided to leave my family and to serve the Lord. I knew that I would get homesick (although I hadn't fathomed how much I'd actually miss you all...) and I knew that adjusting myself wasn't going to be easy. I realized that meant giving myself to God. All of me, inside and out, my thoughts, desires, and will power, are His for these next 2 years. I knew that. I also wrote how much I wish to turn back time and be a better son. Study hard, get good grades, make better friends, date good girls, participate more in church. But I also value the hardships for what they are teaching me now. I was way too lacks, and way too far off the deep end at times. Momma, and to you also Pop, I thank you both so much, with all my heart and soul, for devoting your life to me. For not giving up when you could have just as easily done away with me. For enduring to your end so I can fulfill mine. I realize that your love is Godly in every sense. It's an unspeakable love. It's pretty close to sacred. And I hope you both know that I hold that so close to my heart now while I'm so far from home... I think about you all before I sleep, and I keep having dreams with you all in them, and they feel so real, I wake up from them, and I ache inside to have you all just stop by for a hug... but last night, I knew God was telling me to shake it off. Shake the homesickness, and serve Him, because this is what you want. Not for me to honor the family, not to improve myself, and although yes, they do happen, the overall desire of your hearts it for my to honor my Father in Heaven. Thank you for your prayers and support. My strength is kindled through your prayers and faith. :)

Pop, you still da man! :) Way to lay it down for the stake! :) I feel the blessings rubbing off on me already! I really do. As people open up there homes to me and my comp. Ahh... Skyway Ward... how I miss it! I even miss the cold surprisingly! HA!

OH MAH GASH! Ate Carmen! :D You're getting called to the PI too, to serve in the Laoag PI mish! Hahaha! Good for you sis. :) You're super astig, talaga! Oh! You should listen to this song I randomly heard while tracting with my comp. It's called Patuloy and Pangarap by Angeline Quinto. I remember how much you used to like Filipino songs, so I figured you'd best enjoy it? Hmm... let me know though!

Nia! Keep pushing! The feild is white and already to harvest, and GOD NEEDS YOU! Whever you're going... I feel like you might be state side. Hmm... we'll see! ;)

 

 

01/06/2013 - 1st Week in the Philippines

Nandito na ako!  (I am here!)  Sobrang masaya ako, kahit medyo pangit pa akong magtagalog. LOL  I am so happy although my tagalog is not yet great.

We had a day to spent in Manila and My travelling companion Elder Challis went to the Manila Temple.  The temple wa really pretty kahit na maliit (it was small) but, the spirit in there was strong.

Manila Traffic is crazy!  But somehow, I felt safer there than US Highway Traffic. Ha! Trips from Manila to Laoag are by plane now which was awesome. Way faster, and I didn't get sick.   

My mission President Julius Jonah Flores Barrientos and wife Maria Lourdes Barrientos

Just a picture to show you a general idea of the Laoag Mission.  I am in a small branch called Santa Teresita Branch.  Maraming (Many) less active members and surely there is a lot of work to be done.  Okay lang sabi nga nila the harder I work, the prettier my wife will be, oh di ba? ha!ha!ha!  joke lang ^_*  



Laoag Mission Home - when I arrived all the new bees (missionaries)went to the mission home.  We placed copies of the Book of Mormon in Laoag City.  Grabee! napagod ako!  Turns out I don't have to learn Ilocano, but it'd be nice to . . . we were assigned our companions, took picture then left for our areas.  Mahabang bus ride. . .blegh!  5 hours!  We ate. . .I ate Adobo and Rice and it was really good but, not as good as Momma's cooking :D, we planned, we slept, and went out to teach the next day in a little farming town called Areduan.



Bahay Kubo - Nipa Hut

Astig na kalabaw! - Water Buffalo

 My companion (Elder Moffat) - astig sya and he seems to know what he is doing.   We are the farthest from the mission home, almost all the way on the north eastern part here.   The homes are close to what we call nipa huts which are mostly made out bamboos, ply wood or concrete with tin roofs.  No CR's ang banyo o kubeta sa labas nang bahay. (outside toilet)  They have water pumps outside the house, most of the house have no plumbing inside.  The mission do take care of its missionaries. . .we live in a pretty big house. . .all alone by ourselves.  It's orange. . .which stands out like a huge pumpkin. . .ha!ha!ha!  joke lang!  But, I hear it is the nicest one in the Laoag Mission.  It's kind of creepy at night though, I'm so used to having curtains over ALL the windows.  The cr is maliit.  No tub, you just stand up and shower.  Thanks for the chinelas (slippers) btw they really help!  I know why pinoys wear them all the time now. lol 

Sobrang sobra maganda dito dahil tahimik ang lugar (it is beautiful and peaceful place) Maraming Bukid (Mostly Farms) They are mostly farmers and they work all day in the bukid.  People are nice and friendly and very humble.  I am always ask to pray since I was new, even up til now. . .which is fine because I need to practice my tagalog anyways.  I LOVE MY FIRST AREA!  O sige!  Tapos na.  Hanggang sa susunod ^_^  That is all. . .until next time.


Bukid - Farm

Surprise!!! Elder Sablan meets Elder Sablan in Narita Airport

 So, I actually didn't expect to see Dylan at the airport in Narita.  Way cool!  I had just gotten out of the "CR" or "Toilet" as they refer to it in Japan. . .lol which btw, I tried using. . .Heh! it sprays your "bottom" puwet pala! (Japanese Bidet (pronounce also a bu-dei) Toilet)ha!ha!

Anyways, Elder Challis was waiting for me outside because I took a few extra minutes to brush my teeth and wash my face as well (no not in the bu-dei ^_* lol)

As I walked out of the CR. . .he (Dylan) was standing right next to my travelling companion Elder Challis!  I was shocked to see him and my first thought was "Dylan your kalbo" (bald hair) alright who gave you that hair cut? ha!ha!ha!  Anyways, I think he misses me giving him a haircut maybe he tried to do it to himself or what. . .but, anyways, I'm going to give him a lesson 101 on giving himself a haircut or he will just have to see a Barber in the Philippines. . . ha! ^_* We greated each other pretty warmly and we had time to catch up and he told me all about his experiences in Alabama.  We only had an hour lay over in Narita but, we boarded the same plane to Philippines and got to stay at the same hotel. . .although we had different rooms. . .We had breakfast together. It was a short but, nice bonding time.  He left the next day with other missionaries destined to go to Bacolod.  My companion and I stayed another day in Manila and we had a chance to go to the Manila Temple.   

 

 

Goodbye MTC - Memories & Pictures

BEAUTIFUL PROVO TEMPLE

Just though I'd sit down and take a few minutes to express my love and gratitude to my Pop!   You've raised me as I am. . .to be Strong, to be Loving, to do what I can to develop the skills of a Great Leader one day. . .I am who I am now because you raised me to be this way.  When I first got here in Provo, all I can remember was your voice saying "A good man should be Physically Strong, Mentally Strong, and Spiritually Strong"  those words echo in my head and are etched in my heart.  I never told you these things as much as I should have. . .But, know that I am forever going to get better through your example.  You were my best friend, my leader, and my Dad.  I'll always be your Boboy.  I love you so much Pop.  And I pray to Heavenly Father to part the heavens and thin the veil for you.  I'm off doing God's work and he's shaping me each day.  (1st Nephi 1:1) 

Temple Walks are the best!

with Elder Chase Campbell

 This book is to keep me organize the next 2 years!  I hope to meet many people, record their names in these book deliver and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ. 
D&C 4:4 "For behold the field is white already to harvest; and lo, the that thrusteth in his sickle with his might, the same layeth up in store that he perisheth not, but bringeth salvation to his soul"


Elder Proctor Lotulelei



Elder Ramos



Elder Clark "love his Aussie accent"

 



Mga Pinoy at Isang Pinay

District 15 B and Guro Bro. Day (aka Bro. Araw ^_* lol)

 
 
 
 

District 15 B and Guro Sister Osborne

December Pictures - Got to have some FUN!

Fireplace, Hung up stockings, and laid out some presents from home :) my stocking is the black ankle sock with the tape on it. . .it made everyone laugh!  :O ha!ha!ha!

 Elder Howard (Santa hat) had his Momma send us some sparkling cider so we can party hardy! >;D

 Bottoms up! 

 Oh yeah! 
MURRY CHRISTMUZ!

Super Sneaky Santa Elder Howard and I (Zone leader) decided to play some trick on the sleeping Elders. . .lol

Wondering why I'm sending you pics of keys and ID's?  Super Sneaky Santa all the Elders in our Zone in the middle of the night and drop gifts off for them.  And...I just so happened to be the mastermind behind the heisting of the keys!  MWUAHAHAHAHAH!  Shhhhh. . . .lol

 The Aftermath. . . ha!ha!ha!

12/25/2012 DJ & Soana "Surprise! The Big Package

Excerpt from DJ's email: 12/25/12

"Goooood news. I met Soana as soon as she arrived! Story: My Disctrict had a hosting assignment that cold and icy day. (I was pretty down being that I was having a hard time with language and was being challenged with my investigators here in the MTC.) I asked my companion if we could leave early so we can head back to residence because I had a headache and wasn't feeling well as well.... also, I can't explain or it's hard to describe but, it felt like I knew something was coming but, didn't know what... So, I began walking outside and I was halfway to my assigned hosting spot when I looked up and noticed a very particular figure walking up my way. Soana? SOANA!!! I ran up to her and gave her the biggest hug ever (meanwhile freaking out all the other missionaries because it's totally BAWAL (Forbidden) to touch a Sister!) and here I was hugging her "Sister Lauaki Sablan" Ha!ha! Gee! i have some explaining to do! As I was not expecting her... no one knew not even my companion that my sister was to be at the MTC a week before I was leaving. I am so glad for the opportunity to be with my siblings at the MTC.. (Dylan & Soana) Soana and I have the same lunch so We sit by each other at meal times all the time, and bump into each other frequently. She gave me all the gifts from home (Thank you thank you thank you)!"

"What a great and pleasant surprise ~ I feel so very blessed! ~ The Lord truly knows how to answer prayers! She was all I needed to feel the love of you all as I was pretty much feeling very homesick during this first Christmas away from home ~"

****Elder Sablan is now traveling to Laoag Philippines as we speak and during his transit and lay over in NY the family had a chance to talk to him and he further stated:

"Mom! When you told me I was getting a Big package for Christmas! I was thinking to myself how big can it be? And what can it be? since I pretty much have all that I need for my mission. I had no idea it was my sister Soana you were talking about. Ha! ^_*

12/18/2012 The Story of the Candy Bomber and Spirit of Christmas

I find it a blessing to be here in Utah during the winter.  The air is crisp and chilly, just like Seattle would be right now.  Everytime I walk outside, Itake a deep breathe and look up at the sky and ask Heavenly Father to send my love back home for me.  The overcast never lasts though without being interupted by sunlight.  I'm not sure if anyone has a chance to watch the BYU broadcasts of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.  I think they sing once a week because they always have a showing here in the MTC every Sunday.  This last Sunday they showed a really cook concert they held at the Sale Lake Conference Center.  I only had the chance to catch only the last 8 minutes of it or so. . .but it was still awesome!  They had the entire choir and orchestra, dancing, and just performed flawless and beautifully!  They told a story of a man who they called "The Candy Bomber" and how he flew over poverty stricken area in Germany during World War II and dropped candy over their towns.  They they showed him now. . .92 years old, and wearing a flight suit.  Super cool!  They closed with the song "Angels We Have Heard on High" in a different version.  I was so overwhelmed and full of Christmas Spirit, I couldn't help but cry throughout the whole 8 minutes.  My heart ached so hard in regret for not being more involved and appreciative of my family these past few years.  I ached at the thought of holding you all and offering each one a genuine "Merry Christmas" to you all, and saying how much I love you.  Especially Mom & Pop!

*Sigh!* The Things I would do to hug you all and just spend 30 minutes to sing, bear testimony of my knowledge of our great and all powerful Lord and Saviors Birth.  I love HIM, I know HIM, and I would die for HIM as HE has for me.  Blessed is HIS name!  My soul is full and my heart is softened because HE has healed me with HIS love.  Words cannot express how I feel, so I serve with the Exactness HE would have me serve with.  I am born of God, as Alma the Younger, I am humbled because I have been broken and HE redeemed me!  I fear nothing now because HE leads and guides me.  I am His and am in debt to HIS mercy and atonement. 

Christmas...blessed is the day, for our God gave us HIs only and begotten!  The world is safe and we are all able to receive life!  I understand the meaning of Christmas now.  And although I wish to receive the blessing of this very important day of worship with you all, I am prepared to receive the spirit of redeeming love in my heart this winter.  So just know I'm doing well even though I practically fall to pieces when I think of my family.  HAVE A MERRY DAY IN COMMEMORANCE OF JESUS THE CHRIST'S BIRTH!  Maligayang Pasko!  Mahal na Mahal ko kayo! 

With Prayers Always. . . .
Elder Sablan

12/11/2012 Who's excited for Christmas?

Who's excited for Christmas?!  I sure am!  I'm amping for the Christmas devotional here, I can't wait. . .there are plenty of rumors of who's going to visit the MTC for Christmas, pero hindi ko alam (I don't know).  All I know its going to be a member of the Twelve or possibly and maybe Pres. Uchtdorf, Eyring or the Prophet himself Pres. Thomas S. Monson!  Pero, Masigla ako kahit sino sa kanila ang dumating para bumati o bumisita.  (But, I am happy who ever comes to visit us missionaries here at the MTC).

I don't have much news this week.  Other than the fact that I really can't wait to be out in the field.  1. because I feel like I'd progress out there a lot quicker with the language, but also because?? FOOD!!! I miss having rice for breakfast! Lol

Here is a message for those who are preparing to go on their mission!  Namely, Soso, Carmen, Nia, Casey or should I just say everyone!  HA!
Well, GET READY FOR A BAND-AID PEELING FEST!  It starts with getting peeled from home! from your family! from your facebook and instagram! from your best friends!  Then you come out here and you fall in love with your District and your Zone, then they all go to the field!  and you are left here until its your turn to be peeled away!  I can just imagine as I have yet to be peeled away from investigators and members who I know I'm going to love.  So I say. . .get use to it!  I now see why they said that you have to rely on the Lord.  It's heart breaking.  To be honest though, with that realization and understanding I don't feel the blankness inside me.  The District that just left, I only cried during the sacrament meeting when they sang "Nearer My God To Thee" in Tagalog because I felt the spirit.  It was so beautiful, and I was so happy for them to accomplish what they came out here to do.  To leave the MTC nest and spread their wings and just fly.  AH!  I wished I was leaving with them.  Those were my best friends out here.

Christmas Spirit.  It's so hard to feel now a days because it seem,s a little redundant.  Shopping! Cooking! Cleaning! Worrying!  It's chaptic!  I watched the December Devotional where the General Authorities made their addresses, and I can't say I know how to make Christmas as pure as they surely know how.  But, I do know that its all about the heart. Buong Puso! (Whole Heart) As said here in the MTC.  But, it's true!  No one should have to feel stressed or worried on Christmas.  If you feel stressed, then don't do it.  Do everything out of love.  Sing, Dance and Laugh! In the end, remember to observe the purpose of Christmas.  This isn't news though, so I know that Christmas will be great.  Don't worry, be happy! :)

Alam ko po na, totoong tagapagligtas si Jesucristo.  Alam ko na nais po ni Jesucristo na masaya ang lahat sa Christmas.  Ibig ko po Pasko sobrang masigla.  Nais ko po na masigla at maganda ang Pasko nyong lahat mga pamilya at kaiibigan.  At sana po ma feel nyo and share sa lahat ang spirit nang Christmas.

"I know that Jesus Christ is our Savior.  I know that Jesus Christ wants everyone to be happy on Christmas.  I want Christmas to be a happy time.  I wish for everyone family and friends to have a happy and beautiful Christmas and I hope that you will feel the spirit and share it as well."

You're in my prayers
Elder Sablan

Nov. 2012 MTC Photos

Reading our scriptures. . .

MTC Companion Elder Howard & I

Mr. Snowman with his family and a

12/2012 MTC Photos The Sablan Boys

Brothers @ MTC Elder Sablan & Elder Sablan :)

12/04/2012 From District to Zone Leader - I seek more ways to be like HE was (our Savior Jesus Christ)

Kumusta po pamilya ko!

Yay! Maraming mensahe galing sa inyo!  (I received lots of message (letters) from you all)

First, I am happy to let you know that as of this past Sunday, I have been released from my calling as a District Leader, and called to be a Zone Leader! Sobrang masigla para sa akin! (I am enthusiastic!) This means I, as well as Elder Howard (another Elder in my zone) are over all the Districts in the 15th Branch here in the MTC. I'm so excited to serve my fellow missionaries on such a scale, and I know this is a rare opportunity for me to bless other lives as they come to me for counsel and help. I feel like President Sablan in the Renton Stake. The work is hard, but the work is worth it. I love my zone! And I hope that I can be the best example of Christ as I can be.

I was only a District Leader for a week but during that week which was last week. . .

 

It was an amazing week!!  I had the chance to give 2 blessings to a Sister and Elder in my District. It was so amazing to feel the power of the spirit working through me. There is a Sister from Tonga who struggles with English, so she has a hard time learning Tagalog because everything is explained in English. She is a convert along with an older brother, and her father does not support her call as a missionary and is not please with her decision to be baptized. She has worked from the time she was 19 up until now (she's now 23), so she can go on this mission. She has an amazing testimony and a very strong conviction of the truthfulness of this gospel. I observed everyone from day one. Everyone has received packages and letters from home, yet we still complain when we go one day without anything from home. She has remained humble and quiet and I have never heard an utterance of sadness from her. She got sick last Wednesday, and she missed classes most of the day, but made it for the rest of the nights classes. She asked for a blessing, which I was able to give to her because I was the DL. During the blessing, I felt a very strong prompting that this blessing was not just to heal her from her physical sickness, but even more so to heal her of her emotional and spiritual sickness. I performed the blessing with words that came into my mind, but were not of my own. I couldn't help but think after that blessing, that the blessing wasn't just for her, but also for me. I had just written to you all how much I missed you, and how homesick I was. I felt so ashamed to have felt the way I did when I received letter and packages from home. I believed that I was called for just this week to give that blessing to her. I recognize that the Lord was reminding me my purpose here on my mission. He was telling me that I will only be successful if I keep my on single to His work. It was such a powerful experience, that I couldn't help but to cry with her within the blessing. I am reaffirmed of my mission, and I am once more humbled and shaped. This week was just so awesome!
I'm glad you all received my letters! :) I tried my best to write to you all and be as meaningful as possible. Salamat para sa pictures of you guys! I wish I were there for the Birthdays.

Nia, I hope that as you prepare for your mission, you will find more ways to bring yourself closer to Christ. You're a great example in our home, and I hope that you can continue this throughout your mission. I'm excited to hear where you are called! I challenge you, (from now until you receive your calling) to think of this simple primary song. "If the Savior stood beside me, would I do the things I do?". Happy Belated Birthday Sis, I love you so much! May you be blessed with another healthy and happy year!

Tupo, you are a light on top of a hill. Let your light so shine, and be an example of the believers! Work hard, study hard, and do not let anyone shake you of your faith. Be as the stripling warriors, and bring honor to our family. You are the only boy in the house, so it is expected that you fight for our family's standard. You are to act as you are taught. Follow the precepts of the gospel, and the Lord promises blessings from heaven, that you have no room to receive it. I hope you stay humble. Humility will be the trait that brings to pass the righteous desires of your heart. This I promise you little brother, Happy Belated Birthday! I love you!

As we enter the month of our beloved Savior's birth, I have turned my attention to the life of the Savior. I seek more ways to be like HE was.

 

“I feel my Savior’s love, In all the world around me.  His Spirit warms my soul, Through everything I see.

He knows I will follow Him, Give all my life to Him.   I feel my Savior's love, The love He freely gives me.

I feel my Savior’s love, Its gentleness enfolds me. And when I kneel to pray, My heart is filled with peace.

He knows I will follow Him, Give all my life to Him. I feel my Savior’s love, The love He freely gives me.

I feel my Savior’s love, And know that He will bless me.  I offer Him my heart; My shepherd He will be.

He knows I will follow Him, Give all my life to Him.  I feel my Savior’s love, The love He freely gives me.

I’ll share my Savior’s love, By serving others freely, In serving I am blessed, In giving I receive.

He knows I will follow Him, Give all my life to Him. I feel my Savior’s love, The love He freely gives me.”

 

I'm so excited for this month! This is the last push until I'm out in the field next month! YAY! :D Maligayang pasko! I hope you all have a great week.

Until next week, ingat po! :)

Elder Sablan

 

11/27/2012 Thanksgiving Week - "Faith without works is dead"

Grateful and Thankful!  For my Father in Heaven! For my Savior Jesus Christ! For the Gospel and the Joy it brings to our life!  For the opportunity to serve as a missionary!  For all who supports me and keeps me in their prayers!  For my past youth leaders (Teachers, Seminary, Priesthood Leaders, Scouts) who sacrifice their precious time to serve and teach. . .who sets good examples and showed great love for me.  For my family and my siblings!  For my parents. . .for loving me unconditionally and never giving up on me.  On Thanksgiving day. . .I just want you all to know you are all in my thoughts and prayers - and that I am Grateful and Thankful for you all!

 

Thanksgiving here at the MTC was great! Not the same, but great nontheless. It was a full day. We had no classes, but we still had a lot to do. We did a humanitarian project where we made hygiene kits and school supply kits for people in the villages of Mali. It was pretty cool. We had Elder Jeffrey R. Holland speak to us, and it was super super spiritual! I cried... he said something that made my heart ache so bad. He said "...Now I know all of you missionaries miss your father's, but I know that you are all aching for you mothers..." I bawled quietly as I thought about Thanksgiving at home. It made me a bit grumpy and threw my mood off because being away on such a holiday felt so foreign. I got over myself though, and enjoyed my food. Food is ALWAYS, PALAGI in abundance! Lol. But, nothing like a meal made from momma and my beloved sisters. It was still good though. We had mashed potatoes, turkey, yams, and other stuff. Though the food was delicious, I sat at my table thinking "Where is my beloved red rice and lumpia?!!" Hahaha! The language is picking up. We call it "Huricane Tagalog" because we are being pounded by the ferocious waves of culture, and crashes down on our confidence. Our teachers are very kind though, and they do all that they can to help us with whatever it is they need, which makes working harder easier. I've been assigned this week as the leader for my district! I'm so excited to have such an important calling! I realized how much I learned by not being a leader, or a senior companion, and now that I have a calling, I realize the Lord taught me those things. It's been nice to take it easy for awhile, but I know that the Lord is calling me to be an example for his children in my district. Along with Tagalog, I've been asking some of my foreign friends to teach me about their culture and language. I'm learning tongan as well, and trying to pick up on Maori. :) I've grown such a love for my fellow missionaries. This week has been tiring... but I know that if I weary myself for my lord and savior Jesus Christ, he will bless me to overcome my challenges, weaknesses, and make up for my short comings.

Family, have you been reading the Book of Mormon?! I would hope you are! I know how hard Mom & Dad always try to have us do it as a family. . .I will encourage all of you to participate and read as a family.  My job as a missionary is to invite others to come unto Christ. Member, non-member, less active, or investigator. I feel only more inclined to help my family and their relationship with God by sharing the same message I'm sharing with the people of the Phillipines. I hope you guys continue on praying together too as a family Day or Night or Both! God will only listen if we talk to him first. As says in the book of James, faith without works is dead! Prayer is a work, and a trial of faith. Keep keeping on! As you've all taught me to do!

The home sickness begins... finally...

Although I pray for strentgh, I can never find enough distractions or things to do to keep my mind off my beloved family. I think of each and every one of you all day. I've kept you all in my prayers, both morning and nights, and meals included. I can see that the lord is keeping his promises to me by helping you all. I can feel it even if you don't say it. It makes me feel better, but there's still this void that your all filled in my life that I never knew could make me feel as if someone had taken something from me that was very special. I continue to pray for strength to overcome this sadness that come about me, and the Lord always comforts me. But I do have to ask him on a constant basis for help.

I'm doing great overall, and I'm looking forward to learning more tagalog! I've recieved your letters, and dear elders, thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules to remember me and share your thoughts. I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE letters! They quiet my stirrings and longings for my family.

Mahal na mahal ko kayong lahat pamilya ko! Ingat, til next time.

(I love you all very much my family! Take Care.)

-Elder Sablan

P.S.- I check my e-mails right after I get out of the temple which is at around 9am on tuesdays, I print my emails out, then come back to the lab at 4:30 to respond! :)

11/20/2012 "The Gift of Tongue" Such a true gift. . .

Pamilya ko! (My Family)

     Kumusta?! Maraming salamat for the package! MY FAVORITES WERE IN THERE! I was so excited to recieve a package, it was unexpected and very much appreciated. Maraming maraming salamat! (Thank you very much!)

    

     There's so much that's been going on. my companion and I are teaching tatlong (3) investigators ngayon (today)! AYEEEE! So much to prepare at wala nang time para ihanda lahat aming liksyon! STRESSED AKO! Lol. But,  I've learned to rely so much on the lord. He has been a huge part of my daily life. I never knew how much I could depend on him. The work is hard, but the blessings do more than add up to the equivalance to what my kasama at ako (my companion and I) do. We pray for EVERYTHING! It seems kind of silly at first to pray for all these things all the time, but We're pretty desperate for help. Koloob ng mga wika (Gift of tongue). Such a true gift! I remembered an Elder that just left who said that if I'm obedient, and work my hardest, God will manifest himself through my knowledge and understanding. Medio konti lang ang intindi ko sa language (I only know a little bit of the language), pero (but), all is well. Walang anuman dahil (no worries because) I have sobrang pananampalataya (so much faith). I'm learning to SYL or Speak Your Language, so I'll be writing home in tagalog a lot more often.

 

     I just sent my letters home today, hope you recieve them soon. HAHA! Pop was totally right on Bro. White being called the new Bishop! Give the new Bishopric my love!

    

     Nia and Ate Carmen. I know that you are both getting ready to work and submit your missionary papers. "The field is white and all ready to harvest", and ye are called to the work. Pero, the blessings that come with being prepared are so great. Do not procrastinate! Act as if you were already called. If I had known THEN what I know now how much harder missionary work would be, I would have been way more serious about preparing myself prior to my arrival here in the MTC.

 

     Thank you so much family for your love and prayers, and for taking care of Bailey. Thank you for all and everything you have done. Apologies for not sending pictures last week dahil, I couldn't figure out how to send pictures on these computers. MAHIRAP! (Hard as in complicated) Lol. But I'll keep trying to figure it out because there is a way apparently. I've been getting better at picture taking. My fellow Elders and Sisters consider me the photographer of the bunch and think I have an eye for beauty. pero, I'll let you guys see what I've been taking. Maraming salamat (Thank You very much) at mahal na mahal ko kayong lahat mga pamilya ko! (I love you very much my family)

I love you Lola, Pops, Momma, Tonga, Ate Shanel, Ate Soana, Ate Carmen, Nia, Casey, Tupo & Ading (Baby Sister) Carlotta. I pray for you all each day and still haven't missed an oppurtunity to ask for blessings upon you all.

Ingat po (Take Care)! Til next weeks! :)

-Elder Sablan

11/13/2012"My mission is a mission, so keep my mission a mission!"

My schedule is so booked, I really have no time to think of home. Which is good because I don't have to think about how much I miss everyone and everything. I will write individual letters this week and send them home too along with your b-day card. I love you so much momma!

Family and Friends:

     Time flies by, this second week feels like I just got here yesterday, but feels like I've been here for a month. Thank you for all the prayers! I went to the temple today, and I was crying as I was praying in the Celestial Room because I was overcome with good feelings. I knew that was the Holy Ghost comforting me and letting me know how much you guys love and miss me. I felt invigorated and motivated to work harder for blessings.

     The language is getting harder. I broke down yesterday because of how awful I felt during a lesson with an investigator and I did not say a word! I knew the Lord was humbling me and shaping me. I thought about what the Lord would have me do, and I felt that my time here in the MTC is not to be idled away with worrisome thoughts of home or other matters.

     Someone said something great during the sunday devotional. He said; "The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing." Funny, yet very very true. My mission is a mission, so keep my mission a mission! For behold, this is God's work, and God's glory, to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man. HOORAH FOR ISRAEL! So far, I've never missed a day to pray for each and everyone of you guys. Even my old coworkers, and my friends, but I always say each and everyone of your names and ask special blessings for you all. Even Bailey boy! :)

Thank you Ate Carmen, Nia, and Soso for writing to me! <3 i miss you guys so much, and I'll be sure to reply to your dear elders letters very soon!

I want to challenge our family to read the book of mormon and pray EVERYDAY! Yes, you all are busy, yes, you all are tired. But I feel it only proper to invite my family first to partake of the sweet fruits of this gospel. This is my calling for two years. I can promise that if you all do this everyday together, we will become more united. More loving. More Chirstlike. What beautiful family we could have if we set 10 minutes aside for the lord each day to read and pray! The blessings are real! Let heavenly father open the heavens for us!

I look forward to p-days when I get to write to you. I feel closer as far away as you all are. Thank you for taking care of my Bailey boy! I find it hard to sleep without my little buddy at the foot of my bed.

Nagmamahal sa inyong lahat na pamilya ko!

Love,

Elder Sablan

11.06.2012 First Week @ MTC

Letter to Mom

Momma! <3

It's so nice to hear from you! I miss home so much... I never realized how much I loved Seattle until I realized I was going away from there.

Before I start, I want to thank you and pop for everything and all that you do. I love you and pop, you guys are so amazing. I feel the spirit when I ask for comfort and reassurance when I start to miss the family. It usually happens during the night when I lay in bed, I just stare at the bunk above me deep in emotion and thoughts. Then I pray, and I'm able to fall asleep.

Thank you for putting my room away, I somehow knew that I should do it, but you would want to do it for me. Lol. Please send me family photos and please include some with Bailey in them because I miss my Bailey boy so much too. I'm going through Bailey withdrawals at night. Lol, joke lang. Please make sure someone is taking care of him!

HOORAH FOR ISRAEL! SIOSIANA LAUAKI IS GOING ON A MISSION! Give her hugs for me, and tell her congrats. A mission is an awesome thing, and it will change her life. When does she leave for the MTC?!

As for mission life, I love it! The people are so kind and generous. Tuesdays are P-days for my district, so we go to the early morning session at 6:15. My companion forgot to bring his temple recomend, so we had to run all the way 3 blocks from the temple back to residence, then back to the temple. The zone leaders, Elder Tate, and Elder Blodsoe waited for us. I was so touched by their love for us. Everyone went, but they stayed so they can be with us. The food is good! (But it will still never replace momma's cooking... or Nia's, or Ate Carmens... or even Soana's... HA! ^_* JOKE LANG! Lol.) I'm holding up well. I feel so greatful, humbled, and honored to be here preparing for one of the biggest journeys of my life. I'm so humbled to be an advocate and proxy for the lord. To let him take a hold of my life for 2 years and use me as a vessel to accomplish this great and marvalous work. My testimony has grown a ton! We had our fast and testimony meeting on Sunday, and I was so amazed at how strong the spirit is in each and every one of the Elders and Sisters in my zone.

I bumped into John Lim from time to time, and he's doing fantastic! He's such a handsome Elder... Lol. Not just that, but a spiritual giant. I love that guy. I wish I had more time to spend with him over here, but we are on the Lord's errand, so socializing can wait.

I've been taking lot's of pictures, and I hope to send you some next p-day! The Elders in my zone think I have not just a knack, but a talent and vision for photography. I think I might take it up. :) But I promise to send pictures next week!

Spiritual thoughts... to be honest, I see miracles, and blessed lives everyday. Since day one, the spirit has been with me. I know it, and I feel it within me. I continue to learn and I am growing each and everyday.

My companion is named Elder Challis. Great man! He loves God, he's obedient and he's going to the same area as me. We're both so excited to serve together here in the MTC while we're here. I bump into Dylan once in awhile. He seem's to be doing good, but our schedules are a bit different, so we have no real time to spend with one another.

The language is going okay. I think I'm decent for less than 1 week in the language. But I'll share my testimony in sa tagalog. It'll be choppy, and short, but I know it to be true. Here it is:

Alam ko po na totoo at mahalaga po ang aklat ni mormon, at simbahan ni jesucristo namin. Mahal Ko ang Diyos at si Jesucristo.
Sa pangalan ni Jesucristo,
Amen.

I'll admit that it's hard watching elders and sisters recieve mail and packages and I have to wait until p-days to check e-mail :( (if you use DearElder.com I will get your mail faster at least while I am here at the MTC) but, no worries...I remind myself to lose myself in the work. Forget everything, and do not dare think about coming home until I know the time has come.
Take care, all of you. I miss you all so so so so so so much! And I love you all.
Do not fear, because I am out here on the Lord's errand. For I know that the Lord will provide a way for me to do his will. Mahal na mahal ko kayo aking pamiliya! <3

God speed and much love,
Ang iyong anak.
Elder D. J. Sablan