tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80207532624783082322024-02-07T18:01:54.626-07:00Elder Ben BurgeChile Osorno Mission March 2011 to March 2013A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-83887462946844415662013-03-15T17:05:00.001-06:002013-03-15T17:05:57.434-06:00Ben is back!!!<p>Ben arrived at the Salt Lake Airport at 10:12 am this morning, along with Elder Hauver and Hermana Johanson. His Uncle J showed up and surprised us all. He was released by President Droubay at 12:30 pm. Ben has a thick Chilean accent and keeps saying things in Spanish. He said it feels very different without the missionary name tag on. His clothes are pretty worn and everything smells like a camp fire. He said it’s strange being just Ben again. He has some parasite meds he has to take today and tomorrow as a precaution. He also has to get a TB test.</p> <p>His trip home was long and tiring. On the 13th, he had a two hour bus ride to the mission home in the morning. Around 9 pm, after spending the day at the mission home, they took all of the departing missionaries to the bus station for an 11 hour overnight bus trip to Santiago. At 8:10 pm on the 14th, he had a 10 hour flight to Atlanta. After a two hour layover, he had a 4 hour flight to Salt Lake. We are so glad to have him home. </p> <p>He reports to the Stake High Council on Sunday at 7:30 am. His homecoming talk is on March 24th at 10:50 am. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNCYagifcpN0VWkaJb4VgxRHmjhC-72h7H6XEjUCsLGAlwq1HLhEbsvJzBEK8NVlgXtQ6p1VvmyGeQgjVRv7l3KANfL0CF81E-xJmP8w2bPI0w_NSq1lxJCCFJ-VzI7_k0yeqD0l_ltD0/s1600-h/airport%2525203%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="airport 3" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left: 0px; display: block; padding-right: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="airport 3" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7L0Xbz-AQKyGA1Ny7FBamgy25BsCvbggzIPk9yjXyIgUpPZFUfhnNy3R45cwbxixuBVmXZqbwolvRH4ZBUK2xZTV5enT893FkzbiGCS0MpIjYvVIMWqCdcrl76dHpgJyJ0p4wNswN3fY/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center">Kayleigh’s welcome home banner and a photobomber</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWuq-3jaNzSD3MyAfc9jGClKFTAqfARmLoUgfGwRmMyKV2hyphenhyphenrdbHOo4s2pljYw2ACYwbx0e9mMTsyr7HGymh-uTeIUjVSoY5SJC15J5_iwxfhNdk2tDbfc6oBWYiQ2CV6eiFBz_qSMNVQ/s1600-h/airport%2525202%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="airport 2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="airport 2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhprR0dHM5_UkPRFBGhYPR3NwrQnTsciaQYIlbWbgXACXG80tzCviI_aYujXPokGy-JklAuL36qtWz3rsaV1Q4wYvM-p34RnYj80q-BC1we4jvqbtEA4QDZO_YpRf9TjVNh_LTKODY_nAM/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center">Silas and Kayleigh greeting their brother</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG_hLrG33IMlAbnRL2iXfwOt5bz1Ogx4C_Q6fX5kPPjcckQfuXlXH-ekID7Hwh4AAv4Xd2BvYvIEsG3ttDwN8F1_yN-lEKz77IYDvPywR8WnQxS1dXbX2-AdpoQMVqiC09euKA34L2_YE/s1600-h/airport%2525201%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="airport 1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="airport 1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8E9pKS5pCO3UAhEzXVarCkOetmBywlQKIzfgSMBhuCdb3kxlJzNQjgL51z9VE13-nqsFHbJNixjVDrpfX5mMFt0Z7pyLfGlL6JJYcnSdl2JBPfYs-CGrte8SUehrLo9uWCileLXB0H5I/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center">Greeting mom and dad</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ2uPEE5NdufY7628gtmSs12WwHnKLSiKhSVnjKc8kw2a88TUQxyVxZ5J9SXA5aPd0pYhYshju_UvQoXVLn_-tfCDwYAI05qXca-q7CLVYUVMZwwuXNWHwYCqfc18Z8xMcNUpqZJaV1dc/s1600-h/airport%2525204%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="airport 4" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="airport 4" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnY94hyphenhyphenG2vDvbtm_bzhXKo7FWoRSn85bXYVTRCQTwEam7Uv_gX-KLWT6yL1CoP4B8uxNvzd7LAPbHI50QC65jzbRc5_bGivAztUTpg1i8BbrD_pHfHC3fMHHf3KH7ryvV6J745JIEtZw/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p align="center">Uncle J showed up and surprised us all</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-76370546202822321152013-03-11T08:15:00.001-06:002013-03-11T08:17:45.992-06:00The end of these two years has knocked on the door…<p>Family,</p> <p>Well the time has finally come. The end of these two years has knocked on the door and in 2 days I will be heading home. I attached the most recent copy of my flight stuff but it looks like nothing has changed. My next Sunday will be in Utah! How strange... I have many stories for you all and I am excited to see you all. I have been so nervous and each day I grow more anxious about the things that will now have to happen. I will have to show you my scar from my operation! That last time I was there I didn´t have it. Everyone here wants my number and email and stuff to be able to talk to them. Hermana Rappleye called me the other day for tech support and jokingly said, "You´ll have to leave your number and address for when we need tech support". My companion was on edge yesterday and he said, "Elder I don´t want you to go." It’s not hard to say goodbye, but yet it’s sad. So many memories here in Chile and so many friends have I made. I hope to stay in touch with many of them.</p> <p>That's so cool that he has his test the same day I get back! I have been sent on a mission for a family of investigators here. They asked me if I could take some stuff home for me for their sister that lives in Utah. She is in Eagle Mountain. I talked to her by Skype yesterday. I will be driving down to their place to drop off the stuff. I will probably go Saturday or something like that. We can take a trip down there maybe to meet a Chilean lady!</p> <p>The biggest fear I have about coming home is stopping all the good things I now do. Like for example...getting up early, reading my scriptures, praying lots, and other things. I am making plans on how to keep myself going on this stuff. Like, buying the institute study guide for the Book of Mormon and other stuff like that. It’s funny how now, I don´t worry about giving a talk or going to church. I worry about the stuff like what to study in the scriptures when I get home, or what to pray for. As for Kayleigh and Silas, you should tell them not to worry. Unlike most missionaries, I won´t judge any of you for the stuff you do. I have learned that judging and criticizing is the worst way to help people progress. The way to help people is by inviting them to come up to the good things. Like putting together a family home evening, or inviting them to read with me. Haha, just relax! I love you all so much. We are going to have a blast!!! I will speak all day in Spanish to you all and you won´t understand anything! MUHAHAHAHAHAHA!</p> <p>I am going to leave lots of clothing here because most of it is old and too big for me. I lost a lot of weight...I have to just keep the weight off! I am thinking about buying some small gifts and then buying some Chilean candy so you can try it. It should be cool.<br>See you in a few days.</p> <p>Love,</p> <p>Elder Burge</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-4164816230777244422013-03-04T10:07:00.001-07:002013-03-04T10:07:45.013-07:00It has been bittersweet…I am more Chilean than the beans…<p>KAYKAY YOU CHANGED YOUR HAIR! I didn´t know who it was until I zoomed in. You look more like mom now! It has been bittersweet. Last night my companion and I cried like little girls. I am stressed out about knowing if I have done all that I could have...and he made me cry. Then he cried as he started telling me about all the things that I have done for the people. Then that made me cry again! Then we took all the numbers for the zone and went to bed. It’s a lot tougher than I thought. It’s my last week...and no one knows it really. </p> <p>Like you have heard me say before...my body is dying. I can know tell you I am experienced in having tendinitis. I have it in both my feet. I hurts to walk...and sometimes it just hurts. I just had deja vu. I have had a lot of that recently. Mom, don´t worry. I will be able to rest my feet when I get home. The doctor said it’s the only thing I need to do for it to heal up. So, in one week from now I will rest. I don´t know if I told you this before...but about a week ago I saw a doctor lady who was looking at all the feet of the missionaries and she looked at mine and told me, these are feet of a great missionary. I asked her why and she said...because they are very, very callused feet. She then took a knife and cut them off. Crazy cool!</p> <p>I am ready to paint the room! Pick a good color, save some newspapers and lets go! Then we can chop like a meter of wood! Haha, it would be cool. Just to let you know I have lost weight and I will be happy to show all my carnets and the weight loss in the mission.<br>Crudos...are actually good and I didn´t get sick! LOOK AT THAT! Something that is horribly gross to look at and think about that is good and safe! Speaking about food...taco soup would be cool to eat. I honestly will just be happy to be eating moms food again! I want to try to lose a bit more weight, so if you want you can make salad and I will show you just how well I can now eat it. CHOU NO MAS with resting! I have 14 hours in a plane to rest...I will be hanging out with you all instead. I have learned how to sleep in buses (airplanes included)!!</p> <p>I am so tan...my arms are so burnt that I look just down right dumb when I have shorts on. I am so white and my arms and head so brown! Sometimes they ask me what part of Chile I am from! I am more Chilean than the beans! (Classic Chilean phrase)<br>I don´t feel like I have changed at all to be honest. I feel that everything around me has changed and yet I have stayed them same. I am sure that it’s not true but at least I feel that way! For example when people that speak English try to speak Spanish their voice changes. Mine does not! I have the same voice when I speak Spanish as in English. Everyone is amazed about that.</p> <p>As for the guitar...it’s going to have to stay here. It’s too much work to bring it back to the states. Plus...it’s not a good guitar so I am not to worried about it. <br>See you all next week!<br></p> <p>I love you! Chou!</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-20180057212286136762013-02-25T08:56:00.001-07:002013-02-25T08:59:44.094-07:00I ate crudos…and taught a family using Skype<p>Hey family! <p>I am now 21! I can officially go apostate and drink myself a fortune in Vegas!! WHOOO HOO! Just kidding. <p>Mark is the intern from Upgrades Etc. We have stayed in contact for a while. He is a really good guy. He isn´t a member of the church. He left Upgrades Etc. and started his own business. <p>Sounds like Sam likes Portland. I am guessing that most of his mission is in the city. Sam might have had Mexican food, but I ate something yesterday that will make you grossed out. I ate crudos. It’s a typical dish of Valdivia. It’s <b>raw ground beef with</b> sauce on bread! I didn´t have my camera with me...what a bummer. My companion didn´t want to go first...so I did! I grabbed the crudo and took a bite. I was scared at first and I was way nervous. However, I didn´t let that stop me. I ended up eating 2 of them. It was actually really good. <p>Silas the sluffer. We are very similar...I remember doing that too. All I can tell you is...just listen to Dad and Mom. I know school can be boring and all...but you´ve got to just push through it. I bet you´ll end up like me...wanted to go back to school once your out of it. I have learned to do things I don´t like by finding something I do like in the class. Works pretty well... <p>Sounds like things at home are changing again. Mom is going to be teaching a different class and Silas is getting big and giving talks. It’s cool to hear all about those things. In 2 weeks I will be coming home and be able to see all the changes. If you want we can paint the rooms. I learned how to paint while on the mission. I am a pretty handy guy now that I can chop wood, paint walls, etc. It’s going to be so cool to see you all again. I will be coming back to winter. <p>Things here are going well...the other day we were teaching a lesson when the family told us that they had a sister that lived in Utah and is Mormon. They called her on Skype and she taught a lesson with us. She is Chilean, but she married one of the missionaries who taught her and they moved to Eagle Mountain. She was way cool. She speaks Spanish and English. She is very gringo. I heard that it is snowing over there. That’s got to be pretty cold. <p>I love you all so much, and thanks for writing me. <p>Take care, <p>Ben</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-49036742849243207682013-02-18T09:42:00.001-07:002013-02-18T09:42:03.826-07:00In less than a month…I’ll be there!!<p> </p> <p>I am completely with you. In less than a month I will be there in the house again. So strange...We are inviting people to be baptized for a date that I won´t be here in Chile. Yasna and Alexandra are doing well...we have been sharing with them this week. They didn´t get to church because Alexandra was tired. She stayed up until 2 in the morning watching tv. We have a Noche de Hogar tonight and they are coming! WHOO HOO! As for Elder Ewok....he got another change. President is losing his patience with him. If he isn´t careful, he might just end up getting sent home. He still hasn´t told anyone why he came on the mission. The reason that I believe he is here is for his girlfriend (the daughter of the stake president). I hold the record for the most time with Elder Hurtado! And I hold the most respect too...they told me he is always asking how I am. Haha<br></p> <p> YA! Silas is driving! He will be driving by himself in no time flat. I was way nervous about driving with Yearby. He has to tell him for me! My sister is a crazy, playing basketball chic! That’s pretty cool. I am pretty good now with a soccerball under my feet.<br></p> <p>Resounding joy......I have felt resounding joy. You don´t feel it all the time...but its part of the mission. Like for example Elder Amato is really inpatience with the people. He yells at them and gets mad. He makes rude comments and other things. The sector is now dying...no one wants to talk with us. He also, doesn´t try very much to do things. He doesn´t want to do much...I think he is a bit trunky. It’s been tough.<br> As for the birthday money...that sounds fine to me! I will be happy to buy you all something cool!<br> As for my talk...it shouldn´t be too bad. I am not used to speaking for 20-30 minutes. No hay problema. It will be weird to sing, pray, talk, and stuff in English. So strange...<br> </p> <p>Until next week! Take care!</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-28739924261819020872013-02-11T08:10:00.001-07:002013-02-11T08:10:51.990-07:00An experience from reading the Book of Mormon<p>Hey family! <p>Looks like your right...Last week’s email didn´t get there! I’m sorry...I sent the email again. I am doing well! Remember in the first of my mission I got here with some Latin Elders? One of them is now my companion! Elder Roberto Amato. He is awesome. He reminds me a lot of Josh. He has the same way of speaking and is really cool. He is from Mendosa, Argentina. He was here before me, then he got into a accident with his foot and well...had to go to Osorno to rest for about a month. Now he is back and working well. The week has been kinda hard for us. Lots of rain again, and the people this week were really busy. We did however have a family of 2 come to church. They are Yasna (Jasna) and Alexandra. It’s a mom and her daughter, but they are amazing and she had a great experience with the Book of Mormon. She read it, and couldn´t sleep the entire night. She finally just got up and starting cleaning the house and left to go do some stuff. She didn´t feel tired and it was raining (which she hates) and she said she felt a burning in her chest. She was filled with joy, and she then for some reason knew that it came from reading the Book of Mormon. It was amazing! She is now progressing well. <p>Time is sure flying by. Not much time till I am on a plane going back home. It’s now come down to working as best as I can to keep working hard. To be honest, at times it’s hard. After 2 years of work you’re tired. But I will keep on going! <p>Mom dreamed right...my shoes are dead (tennis shoes). They are held together by the last of the glue they used to make them with. It’s so funny! I got a good 2 years out of these guys! What do they want me to talk about when I get back? <p>As for the birthday package...don´t worry about sending it. I would love to receive money to buy gifts for you all! I already went looking and found a few things I want to buy for you. Haha, I hope you´ll like what I want to get you. It’s a secret so you can´t know anything about them till I get there! I want you all to have something that you can show off to all your friends. <p>As for me, I am doing well. Everyone here brings up the fact that I end my mission and ask me if I am ready to go home. It started raining again, something that I won´t miss at all. I used to love the rain...but I don´t now....haha. <p>I love you all, <p>Con Cariño <p>Elder Burge</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-42152207856506170272013-02-11T07:50:00.001-07:002013-02-11T07:50:59.114-07:00Now more than ever we need to be strong…<p>Hey family<br></p> <p>It’s sad to hear the Ace died. I know he will be ok. We will just have to wait till he becomes a GIANT RESURRECTED ANGEL BIRD OF DEATH! Haha, things will go well. As for me, the whole death thing isn´t that bad. Its getting easier to handle. I feel sad, but I know what happens. So that brings me a sweet peace that comforts my soul. At least you did your best to make him feel better. I am relieved to hear that the others are doing ok! At least they can keep being happy! </p> <p><br>The patriarchal blessing of Kayleigh sounds BAKAN (cool)! She is lucky...seems to me like maybe she´ll be around still when the Lord comes. I am sure that part about death will be important later in her life. The Lord always prepares us for the hard things to come in our life. So, now all of us have our blessings...does Silas have his?</p> <p><br>We live in times when people will be confused and lost in the world. Now more than ever will we need to be strong reading the scriptures, praying much, and going to church. It’s sad...I feel that the entire world is going down hill much faster every single day. I don´t know what to think...I feel sad. I can feel the adversary trying harder every day to make me fall into small things. Many missionaries are becoming unmotivated. Many doubt and have trouble with past sins. It’s a raging battle field out here. Prepare as best that you can.</p> <p><br>Thanks for sending the information about college. I have prayed and fasted for answers. I know that they will come. I have a feeling that you will give me the answer in the things you send. What kind of cool things do the computer scientists do? It’s been so long since I have been able to learn about the different parts of my hobby. I am thankful for your help. I love you.</p> <p><br>Well...I will send a few pictures.</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6q3-IEJgMyjbV14vcGmyBHRPUtUgsrAHzLRKwp0sUY5WzAfmSSEwY2mKerOXnMEoktK9G9LvnB9v7G3J6j9cZ9o1SlwtHUYINnLja8S-heDfgM0eqB5CAKSfWqPVQ3rLkFV3jtddIaw/s1600-h/DSC02499%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02499" border="0" alt="DSC02499" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh44ugPlEaDKE_85Pas7iAzbjJgG0vHCZs2kt1qhi0yjK7h5OSyniac7axmIC_ixHe6tSQ6GcinF9Ggh31craoGIUd0b99smhBgwz2Yct7XKAG033tQDeq0gM0qPDzubl1gB8jfYKJzEl0/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center">The mission logo</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglp6y58IP1SO1Pl5mjarsi_6YV-HfFHMLUAbWvB1XYmYiMDp_Ecq2KEdOffNCw5yybEa1AXddMxFcOQCi3TIDDOO-YwFw3NJom9J83Fg5uqvv_wx7otg3hPhkflQOMOXDHgelOFSfWKvQ/s1600-h/DSC02494%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02494" border="0" alt="DSC02494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEq0aFuaYGoBTZ6kBjgLmiVWSQQYv8KJwEQAyBA5w_dhdbViJXkttCQcD0-2pABap29rFV4tdBnMgaMGDNBpb696CUX_y3f1Vw_MCA8jG85Qu7Bq4E8J5Kvcjk9Vc7kEzNkue_V6tIVPE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center">A delicious Chilean sandwich</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguopDWTIzn-SjsQhJCwYRzm-Q-nQitk-FmkoFNp3iBzqLxEDrSOWk32ljQvSaRIexIkrfcmu2_t1bROUNkx16Mtn4b5-DmwSILpRwy8fgYoreOm19NzZyaqyLeCDhZmD8LztWrJpqGmxc/s1600-h/DSC02495%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02495" border="0" alt="DSC02495" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSQ3WMlgCCdEXl9V-U-lNwkMn3nlheW5iQZ4ODliu53qxO0_xspSjpEqouXTgAufo9eCSFnFAn0csYeO6YMcSOKKYlI4JCgeicWxK2K9J7O8FGYT7V7R5ajTAd2BTKmQGFchJKN5qWLaM/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center">How are you going to eat all of that Elder?</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2aqC2kusSc5PaljA056VA0mqO6YvgU8XCTeu0Urqar7V3gMq5_wqnl3XolHHr6b7uHPyxAfZNy1DmXtG1iMa2a8p7OeLgArMhcVSRrGQnHQiiW0RMDYrb65oCPqYIvtR1b3WXQqRs5HM/s1600-h/DSC02489%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02489" border="0" alt="DSC02489" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzUxKgGBQF7OjMFwrufreU-s1Tc7qsBfkV3LSZ6_WRb5csFX9NPLSIOVLHlv_zoNLvVfT7LdMqUgoTN0iRzLJoQaBB6rGoAuXjS-zAQQZaM_GwRR5d79K2H4E_O5gkTx7YvYW5yZkNXE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center">The seals are always ready to get dunked!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIjZiUihLH-xJ2umaJFX15qctMSBEbp7lvboGnByCMjjE2I2AJGP8TUusVhSqJhhu3a8Jo5PGhbe2OxhtgAZVU_bZgPdK9S2ucHDK6ZXomsfXmaxOh4LNev9FH8vlNW8s7gqh05Z3EVHU/s1600-h/DSC02471%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02471" border="0" alt="DSC02471" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUqlMWSiMO_LZjxEgVWfYuEis0rdyK3Pvu0PR6QT7mky31QisR6v5HuPVfIOORYf6rxYRNlPdjC7aApMScD0iwR06CuR5FAqm32ksWIoFR6D0UC3mPcNpA6Q0qabtj_iLH4vfz6wdzVGc/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center">Stocked up with my favorite desserts</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-90109568200826631102013-01-28T14:00:00.001-07:002013-01-28T14:05:07.532-07:00Valdivia is pretty sweet<p>Hey family! <p>There seems to be lots of surprises happening lately. I already heard that Ewok got ANOTHER sube cambio and that he didn´t get along. The guy has problems. Valdiva is pretty sweet...it’s been cool because we go play soccer every other day, and the days when we don´t go play I lift weights that I found in the house. We are doing really well here. We have tripled the amount of lessons I was teaching with Ewok and any other companion! When I got here there weren´t any investigators and now we found like 15 new people who could become investigators. I am in the Zone Valdivia. I thought for sure that I was an eternal district leader but looks like that isn´t true. These two families in the last photos I sent were some families from Rahue. The first family where I have a dog on my shirt is a family of an Investigator who is waiting to be divorced. The last is a family of some members that I really had a good time with. <p>We have to stay faithful...this is what I have learned this week. I have noticed that all the stuff I study is pointed to pray and fast. I think that I need to really focus on that while I end my mission and start making life choices. I grow in faith as I ask for certain things and receive answers to my prayers. God is great, and strong and all powerful. I love him very much. <p>MY GARMENTS GOT HERE FINALLY! I AM SO HAPPY AND I AM WEARING NEW GARMENTS! WHOOOO YAAA!!! <p>Thanks for sending me information about the school stuff. I am have no Idea what to do or where to go. I think it would be cool to go into new tech stuff and invent stuff. I have no idea what field that would be...and I also like the IT security stuff. It’s a tough choice. I think I am going to have to fast and pray to know what to do in this stage of life. I really don't have any Idea what to do. I printed the email off to think about it a little later on. <p>As for the work, things are going well here. I am trying the best I can. Being zone leader is much more relaxing. There isn't nearly as much work that I have to do. As a district leader I had to do a lot of work and training drained me. As a zone leader everything goes well, you have a good companion who works and you don't have to prepare classes. <p>It’s been good.... I don´t really have much to say this week. It’s really pretty much been easy. I am thankful that you always write me...not much time left till we talk in person. Thanks for all your help. <p>I love you all! <p>Elder Burge A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-30089752336637478192013-01-21T10:36:00.001-07:002013-01-28T14:06:09.881-07:00Sube cambio: Unexpectedly transferred to Valdivia to be Zone Leader with Elder UrrutiaHey Family! <br />
<br />
Yes, you did say "hola hombre muerto/hello dead man” right. To be honest...my mission is getting cut short one week, because all the dates are now being moved a week back because of the new MTC thing they are doing there. It’s so crazy! I got transferred...early! Not because Elder Hurtado and I were not getting along ...but because a missionary broke his leg! So, they moved me to Valdiva in a huge SUBE CAMBIO, and now I am zone leader here in Valdiva. Looks like this is my final resting place. I have 2 weeks to figure out my sector, because Elder Urrutia is going home on Feb 6th. It’s so crazy! I´ve been here for 4 or 5 days now. <br />
<br />
WOOO a patriarchal blessing! Those are so sweet....I can´t believe that Kayleigh´ll be the last one to get one in our house. <br />
<br />
As for school...I think my plan will be to go to SLCC for a bit. I don´t have any idea what schools are good in Computer and Network Security. It’s kinda hard after being away for 2 years. I think that’s what I want to do. It should be sick! I know that computer stuff is what I will be doing. <br />
<br />
As for the pictures I am sending...I ate at huge completo today! It was way good...after running for 30 minutes (in the morning), then play soccer, then running back home for 30 minutes, I had some serious need for food. That’s my new companion. He is from Chile, and he will be ending in 2 weeks as I said before. He and I get along way well. It’s been nice to have a good companion. <br />
<br />
Sam wrote me, and it should be cool to hear what he has to say. I am so happy...I can´t wait to hear from him about his mission! He already has had 2 baptisms! GO ELDER SAMUEL BURGE! <br />
<br />
I love you all...take care!<br />
Elder Burge<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijT8nqNvxJx81rb6-rz1OwyxAVfcQVgyFZ2iBJB7eYMJjjJbGo0ocbjxXWRe9PXnUJ0kaomcqIv98KVO6MIvbpTTzjUA7HcxY63V0effE7xX4ZPEZxJGcaaNXC8XdifA6T-zZxKMKBdPs/s1600-h/DSC02458%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><span style="color: black;"></span><img alt="DSC02458" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt7pSYCRt37odP6SqOcz9LcUYgDbyvksAFT_wckUuB2QLUY6IAKkp3JIV6I75httRgX2owcHldDN69C-FpaccpLJi8qGtgh6ojz8DhLNh-7XFON4fBo-U25qgT8muGza7vzQRAWcVK-a8/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02458" width="244" /></a> <br />
<div align="center">
Elder Urrutia demonstrating the proper way to eat a completo<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirqhiZW7jzOX97raG8FAyhPupU6Bl0mnP-3Tli9adX1RUFx2oCEiTRVuvVgsgqbhmC9f_1OOgBH2CDAdYbIAnbIEPzJ9JjTKa-QgscWaVlzHLM29liLRJ4QueYT0IcQ-Eh_EFnLCVAioA/s1600-h/DSC02461%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02461" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIO8KdsIpQCtQ_nLiHFu_eajwBIkw-hxZepBhgP8ULpT1KRNx7-JuXJBVL18hJ0zoT9S5vnqLKb2B4WNutOi50SC6FL_qiO8q6XxCq7ivqoWAZudIArL-_QKnl5M-QN4TZHNxHPdkugUc/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02461" width="244" /></a><br />
<div align="center">
My completo awaits<br />
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiwF1hlhbs1EDk5jJ5_G5eXjKHiKnuwX9q9eTM83YtDE3xdKuLLFTHwZGUGSlNEQoG_9k9m3vhd6K4MMG6Ex87Pbn0yK4C41QSM0t0-KQo13i0bK9s3Vm9XpBSd3TizVmiT4KObrqJdYQ/s1600-h/DSC02436%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02436" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7CZcm38GxsIkhfwn2fcLQ8Qk8yAMIAhuvr3uZpmzyAakWUVAX0oXzMwjAesS-C44ioq6lSohpRmpk039L3QPzKAEkl8l3WmTfmH_wKWCdcX_Va1FkQ9iWGs76ZEQTRW_II_jH0R1mlNk/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02436" width="244" /></a><br />
<div align="center">
A member family from Rahue<br />
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU-be-cgU3FSbVW-gZ-H2t82fk6bvKm8KtHWFVk4yn91KnI4lRvpxFLlwI1nedINLl-quoCgQtNSa-6HKxgmYt200i-XGLRVZHR_exsh8SlaVkOG9x8HOeXdQFz2isn_U0JJtlxZVlmC4/s1600-h/DSC02446%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02446" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIo_4xWFsA3pF51nbh4wNnfyqYl6FR46LF2_XukJ7l5jMTdxAwKr85BoA6q2TuDqBeu5xOgTGGkJAIJV_xQmCx2ft4FksaPNkuaMwJ71x-n0BZMG_QOoLhttL5evrHdWB_mT-mz_EZlWM/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02446" width="244" /></a> <br />
<div align="center">
Somebody has lost a little weight<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6tdUNO_mKpoFgHWOjsCv7rNKK0GTlK0gcSSRhyo-Nf_Rjh0Cj2SusaS3EdLZmq3D2lWV8rDR2nAlirm0ylHrdJS2vaUbtfoRbFDcyLcV7EJU7V4JsGCYeCHFPyJmq9zgO1C27igduiPo/s1600-h/DSC02465%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02465" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV2UWIwl7iARQLnLnm8AJFyPj4WgzFyr7EBo4KgpG2Ov35T03sl0OglzTOI6Y1N9OUTE_exDKGQOg9NJW9J0rnNNo9l2isVNx7E_Jf1CHlJDOT7F4NaMLDWj1b6UJeswlKHsaPsuUrWXU/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02465" width="244" /></a> <br />
<div align="center">
Chilean farmer tan<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg642CJj6gg5z5j6BEpgZmKF3ugfCbvbTBqF-JA5NYF3YNfYmD0uG7TMZ6FyyW85FNegsAjsaiYl7eE0Aj_SELRAmfr4EjKVrB7WkEtQMfF0AinVmm1TSjdCYZuMZTdUETlfC76c5xUnxY/s1600-h/DSC02466%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02466" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGzZrJ2sOuvMcL9JuNKPiRZzEpMSRjP0BbIJ9ZfFi9pqVord7JAUNfztuhhR96yQvKLH7UoC8VAAIpyTb6wdRNJJDZC3j5arJ8rQZcmVovoDtS6_cwXc5qqyMDKOS7Ryu3CccaU8QmU2E/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02466" width="244" /></a> <br />
<div align="center">
Comparison </div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-29659665584416632672013-01-14T13:42:00.001-07:002013-01-14T13:42:12.842-07:00Faith of a Child and Coming Home March 15th!!<p>I’m a dead man and one that is coming home early too. To be truthful I was in the office fixing computers when the email got there. The office elders flipped out and started calling me a dead man. Looks like I will be home one week early. I GET TO GO HOME WITH ELDER HAUVER! It’s going to be so sweet. And of course they put us on the longest route home looks like. I like my lamb crucified and cooked on an open fire. Just like the good ol´ days in Puerto Natales. <p>Keep the SD card around and in a safe place. When I get back I can try to take a "crack" at it. HAHA! I have never done something like that but I can figure it out with a good prayer of faith and research. <p>Speaking about computers...I WAS AN IDIOT and let my companion buy a DS for his brother thinking that he was going to send it the same day. He told me he had the address...he didn’t. I had to talk with the Zone Leaders to make plan for the APs to come take it away from him. President got mad...and I don´t blame him. I was told his words were...What was Burge thinking? Felt pretty bad about the whole deal and prayed and started making calls to say sorry to the Zone Leaders, APs and today an email to president. I was dumb to believe him. <p>He just keeps going back to his same old ways. He progresses to a point then falls back down and progresses to the same point and goes back again. I am so tired of it. But, the Lord sent him to me for a reason and I will do what I can do to help him. Even if it kills me, it will be worth it. One good missionary and hundreds of baptized people. That sounds worth it to me. <p>I haven´t heard from Sam. I told him not to write me until he gets permission from his president. I will continue to write to him. It sounds like a good place for him there in the mission. I have a feeling he will baptize a ton of people there. <p>Remember to get blessings for the illnesses that have come over you all. It’s so very important that that happens, I got my butt kicked hard by God the other day. I was really mad for a few things that happened here. Then in Priesthood someone talked about the faith of a child...and I felt that light, warm punch to my soul! I knew what I have to do, and I do just so. I felt good afterwards. <p>Hang in there....and God will hang in with us until our trials are over and we return to that God that gave us life. <p>I love you all! <p>Elder Burge</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-12304371532706668992013-01-07T13:57:00.001-07:002013-01-07T13:59:54.259-07:00I’m starting to smell like a dead guyWhat a weird thing is it for Sam to be leaving huh? I remember that day when I left and it feels like only yesterday it happened. It sounds like he is kinda nervous and everything. He will do really good. Everything will go well for him. He is just beginning his trip and I am coming to the end of mine. Everyone brings it up here. All the missionaries are like, you’re a dead guy! Some others are telling me I smell like a dead guy. I had interviews with President Rappleye the other day. When I sat in the chair he looked at my picture and the feeling in the room became very sad. He then told me, "well you don´t have much time left." I felt sad, and I am sure he felt sad. We talked about setting goals, and he asked me what my last goal was for the mission. I told him...I want to bring the sector back up to where it was at before my companion got here. He smiled and taught me some tricks on how to goal set. He told me that I would become a powerful instrument in the hands of God if I could learn to goal set really well. He then told me to not get trunky. Hahaha. Things are really started to come to an end. GO SILAS! I am glad to hear he blessed the sacrament. I remember that time I had to do it over like 3 times before it finally came out. I felt so embrassed when that happened. What luck he didn´t have a moment like that happen. It sure does sound like things are going well for him. Haha, I am so glad that he is saving the shows for me. That week that we’ll have will be pretty sweet. I will be really excited to hang out with him and you guys. The garments haven´t gotten here yet. I might just have you call them and try to get your money back. I can try to find some other way to buy garments. I will just have to think about how to do it. Thanks for sending me some college information. I really don´t know where to go to college...Maybe you could see who has a good computer program. I haven´t thought about where to go or what to do. I am kinda lost on that part of things. For me I have no idea where to go or what to do. As for me...things are going well. I am trying my hardest to keep things going. I keep running into problems with my companion but oh well. Just have to keep going with faith and diligence. I am not be required to be perfect but God wants me to try. I always seem to run out of things to say. Things really are getting close. I love you all. Take care, Ben<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-30926352035188007272012-12-31T16:51:00.001-07:002012-12-31T16:51:18.243-07:00I will keep pushing myself until I get the most out of my time here<p>Hey Family! <p>It’s been a crazy day...and a crazy week. I am feeling pretty stressed out and my companion is killing me. He just won´t listen to me, and he just keeps killing everything. Our sector is suffering a lot from it. I am so stressed out. This seems to always happen with the new missionaries I get. <p>I am glad to hear that you had a good Christmas. Here they do the New Years thing by copying what the gringos do. They throw parties and drink till you can´t find your way home. It’s a weird time, because we have to be careful thanks to all the drunks. <p>I am glad to hear that everyone there is progressing well. It makes me happy to know that you’re all so well. It’s weird that Silas is a priest and that Sam is in the MTC. Thanks for the picture. I like to see how he is. The family for me has become way important. I care a lot about all of you. <p>Sounds like things back there with Krista are hard. Looks like Sam knows how to be a good boyfriend. He always had a weird charm about him. Tell Brock the next time you see him to take it easy. I know it’s got to be hard for him. Things will all work out. Invite him to write me if he wants to. I´d be up to talk with him. <p>I know Sam will do well in the MTC and mission. He is starting to realize that he really does have a testimony. I think it was in your blessing Mom...but it talked about us, your boys, and spreading the Gospel. We have a work to do, this family of ours, and God has to prepare us to do it. We will all understand when the time gets here as to why it’s been so hard for us. I will be writing Sam every Monday to let me vent and to give him advice. He is a strong guy. Don´t worry, he will make it to the field. <p>As for things here...I am striving to stay alive. So many problems. The closer I get to the end of my mission, the more and more problems and trials there are. It’s only fitting for an end of mission experience. I am proud that Silas didn´t cry when he saw me on Skype. It’s funny how deep his voice has gotten. It’s pretty funny, everyone thought that Mom was my sister. Haha, they were all shocked afterwards. As for me, I will keep pushing myself until I get the most out of my time here. I won´t die, I will just come home..a bit "tired". Not much time to make the most of the time I have now. <p>Sorry I haven´t written more...I want to write Sam before my time goes. I love you all! <p>TAKE CARE! <p>Ben A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-1658335489333880482012-12-24T16:54:00.001-07:002012-12-24T17:59:11.294-07:00Christmas Eve Skype - The Silence of the Lambs<div align="justify">
We were able to Skype with Ben in Chile. That is our last Skype before he returns in March. He was very happy and upbeat. He said that the mission president gave him permission to email Sam directly, and that he and Sam sent emails to each other today. He said that the thought of leaving Chile is bittersweet. He looks forward to coming home to Utah, but he is sad to leave his home in Chile. He said that the beds in Chile are not very comfortable, and he looks forward to the beds here in the US. He said that, to date, he has never been bitten by fleas (a common problem in Chile). He said that even when the house is infested with fleas, everyone but him gets bitten. He says he must be too spicy for the fleas to want to bite him. He said toward the end of the mission, all of the missionaries report being tired and walking around feeling like zombies. He said he is starting to experience that, too. He said he doesn’t have any idea of where he wants to go to college, but he thinks that he wants to major in computer science with a specialty in network/internet security. He was able to Skype from the momita’s house. They were getting ready to eat dinner. Tomorrow they will stay in their house pretty much all day (they are not allowed to tract or contact on Christmas day). He has a dinner invitation with investigators tomorrow night at 8pm. He said that for Christmas the Chileans buy a live lamb for Christmas dinner. He said in the days leading up to Christmas, you hear the lambs as you walk through the streets, but today it's silent. They take the lamb and butcher it and cook it for Christmas dinner. He said it's an honor to be invited to their house for the butchering of the lamb, but it is terrible if the person doing the killing doesn't do it right. He said he has never gone to see one butchered. He said it would bother him too much. He said that he has learned a lot of magic tricks while on the mission and that he has learned to play a lot of the hymns on the guitar. He says that comes in handy when doing missionary work. His bird Fezz saw him on the computer screen while Skyping and tired to snuggle up to his face on the screen and preen his hair. They whistled to each other. His bird still remembers him after almost two years. That made Ben happy.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKAkKHtPducAejIVJqLi4Dr3IbPuKcqEDhDcY9Y31RauyuAmxVidQebsf0cfJtLvYtKJ0mkFk8tvuKFmknhKE6u5BylE9U2cjd40Iy7sbhPufskd9PK0aJYMj6-RFL44uVr7ZZwMCJzs/s1600-h/fezz%252520skype%252520snuggle%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fezz skype snuggle" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDcEWIKMHh6HJDUrcags0-EczoxHQYs3lTMdgtfp1CBozpVt2ypXNUnz6e0bm_9AlQIVi5Y9XeVbNhVrrtew27FA0kczuFpnRO2oGigWHQ-WNUrJiShNpOvgclRmYtYmPZv_MmdGYeinc/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="fezz skype snuggle" width="184" /></a><br />
<div align="center">
Fezz trying to snuggle up to Ben’s face on the computer screen</div>
A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-56187695700177597302012-12-17T08:41:00.001-07:002012-12-17T20:03:44.172-07:00It’s a bit weird to see how much you all changeHey family! Still not any garments in sight. I went this morning and didn´t find any. I am sure they will come. It might take time but it will get here, because well...it is Christmas and all. WOOOO<strike>H</strike> FAREWELL TALK! I remember mine...tough stuff. However, I now can give a talk in front of a ton of people and I can do it well...so we are alright. Sam will be able to give a great talk after he is done with the mission. Tell Sam to write down as much as he can in the setting apart. The other day we were talking about it, and there are a lot of prophesies that happen in them that come true. The MTC will be awesome...tell him to eat all the cereal that he wants to. It’s the best part about lunch. I am going to get permission from President to write to Sam by email. I know he will give me permission. The other day I got a call and I had to go into the office. They wanted to buy a program to use to make videos for the missionaries going home. The program they were using before was hacked. So I bought the thing...I felt so cool talking to President, telling him the pros and cons of the program I want to buy, and then getting permission to buy the thing. I had to talk to the Finance guy and everything. I felt so...big. Then I had the office people make 4 copies of the installers so that it doesn´t get lost or broken. When I look at the pictures of you all I feel like your’re all so different. I don´t recognize Silas much any more. It weirds me out a bit. I can´t wait to see you all on Skype. To be honest...it’s a bit weird to see how much you all change. <b><u>SKYPE INFORMATION</u></b> <b><u><br /></u></b> I think we should do it the <b>24th</b> of Dec. <b><i>at 7:00pm</i></b> <b>MY TIME. </b>Everything should go smoothly. I will be doing it in the house of the momita. I think her internet should go quick enough. I will be verifying your answer this Friday. I love you all. Things here are going well. It’s been a bit tough for me. Lots of things happening. But everything will be fine in the end. We have to suffer at times, and work when the strength isn´t there. These moments, however hard and long they may be or seem, are evidence that God can do everything. He can make me walk when I can´t. He can help me speak when I have not words. My body has been suffering for quite a while now. Today I feel like I got hit by a truck. I think I will go home and clean the house and just relax a bit. Maybe I will play the guitar today. My companion is doing fine. He doesn´t like to walk fast, but he is starting to become more himself, I guess you could say. When he makes jokes and acts normal things go well. But then there are times he tries to justify sinning and those are the moments that this diamond in the rough becomes a diamond in the toilet. I know however that there a blessing in store for both he and I if we get over the hard parts. GOOD NEWS THOUGH....I am happy! I glory in my tribulation and love the new challenges that come to me. I am happy because a good friend of mine is going home to see his family and I am so happy that he can finally see them again. He will need it. He is a good guy. I love you all so much! I wanted to let you know I got the package of Grandma and Grandpa Burge. Tell them thanks for supporting me. Just between you and me...I think we need to get gramps in the "water". Don´t know how...but the Lord does. Take care, Elder Benjamin Burge<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-1947944365141053492012-12-10T16:28:00.001-07:002012-12-10T16:28:04.711-07:00This has been a really weird week<p>Hey family! <p>NOTICE: I bought an electric shaver because I had problems with my manual one and I had been using the electric shaver from Elder Marcel. <p>This week has been really weird. My new companion was doing well...but now we are starting to see things. We live in the house with 4 missionaries. The other day we had a lesson and my new companion started talking about his "past life" and about all the "drugs" he took. It went south and he wouldn´t listen to me nor stop. I was so mad afterward. So we talked about it, and he told me that he was doing everything all right. He told me it was "inspired by the Holy Ghost". When we were talking about it the Zone Leaders got home and started to listen in. They too started to try to show him that he was doing something wrong. He then said to all of us. I am right, and I don´t see anything wrong with what I did. We then showed him in Preach my Gospel and the scriptures that were very clear. They left and he looked me in the face and told me...I am still right. I felt...pain for him saying that. If he is not careful, his pride will bring him into apostasy in the mission. I felt a godly pain. We had done everything we could...and his pride made him deny the help we have to offer. I know that’s how God feels with us, his children. I am however very surprised about how patient I have become. I am able to control my anger much better now. It also causes me to feel godly sorrow for those who choose not to obey the commandments of God. It looks like the challenge has returned. This time I will conquer it. I can see clearly the difference between my knowledge from before and my knowledge now. <p>THE TEMPLE!!!! Haha, that’s so funny about the comment Sam made. I love the temple. I love the feeling it gives me. I still remember, when I look at the picture in the preparing for the temple booklet, when I was there in the Salt Lake Temple. I felt such a happiness. I miss the the temple. I want to go either THE DAY I get back or THE DAY AFTER. The temple is the best place on earth. Now that Sam and Brock are endowed with power from on high they can go and preach the gospel. The older I get...the more my testimony of God and miracles grows. <p>Sounds like Brocks talk was a good one. He would be following the advice that Joseph gave once about praying much and keeping your talks short. I can´t remember clearly what he said. You can find it in the Teachings of the Prophets: Joseph Smith book. I have been in the position of having to fill 30 minutes of the sacrament meeting before. It isn´t too hard to do it if you read the scriptures everyday, and really “study". You´ll have to send me a copy of the talk Sam gives. I would like to see it. <p>My package got here from you all! I thought it was a great package. I shared with some people here and they liked the food. The reindeer has been a hit. The APs were at the house when I opened it and they were all like, "NO WAY...THAT’S SO FUNNY". I enjoyed it. The garments haven´t gotten here yet but there were many packages in the office today when I went. But they were all still in the "to be sorted area". Cambios are this coming week so I won´t be able to get it till probably next week. I loved the package though. It was really cool. Thanks for loving me. I know it’s got to be hard that the kids are leaving the house. All is well, however. Time goes by very fast, and the Lord will help you feel that we are still close to you. We are only gone for 2 years. Then we will be back, getting married, and giving you beautiful grandchildren. It will be amazing the blessings that you´ll receive. <p>Eric is already home? That’s so strange because I know Elder Smith who was with him in the MTC and they don´t leave till next week. That’s so strange. I bet he has a weird accent. <p>They haven´t announced anything about Skype, but they will, don´t worry. <p>Things here are going good for us. Just a little more time till Christmas! I hope you all enjoy it. It’s a good time of year. <p>I love you all. <p>Ben <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN5SpjCxKSI_LW795HeLGOLeGs9v5RcgtOPCRIoFeBmaH532iJq5AKFxMdWLB1Yph1_yW8WusIdX0c6dx3ZWAHP6sx_VrkMvS-WPvtE4eJZ1G-sfMdxjCZvHVKOHJ1cQuewzQhojCUn6Y/s1600-h/DSC02259%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02259" border="0" alt="DSC02259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXrWz9plOXXG9vQUQCsGxLrm5hEy_0I97SR7ma_Fhv2DbWcOn3eSoalecXEFkw2E4a9q8jJx-moeoSAC-7Wc5qwxTHTfckk13ywhK8vGTmHD2q8vE8XjaDfl2f46r2lP9AE9E_rOkZS3s/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center">It’s called a Moroni Letter, because Moroni’s on the envelope</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqD7-HNZtaiNnn3e05FA0CeQn_ygj0CK7UyqFpsa7agTUeMHYcZGRo2xy86ZqtTNXg9g0gR1K-D1_TJDvoILUObg09Tgg2LZbLrK9SELv7wtYArp1Ra_I7feNemJ4-XSVz9R9EGFGQDg0/s1600-h/DSC02261%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02261" border="0" alt="DSC02261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIDRHHUwijEqYL8n1MvnULGHX6aL4l_GGhjtRqZotqkwG-Mr1oDozznAVZGNK-4Z-245js5CoEBL6ePSBbMuS5skGR0wCwYKugvHqnoruK6VQEgztApSVluaAZ16YyH-SxDOqU0hr5lWI/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center">The letter</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXPFTrfNwYdezQiCSy4Tm3GgWblK76M1PgjoSXeQUlR3B7qW8H7vlG22oXsqJvis8aNqJEc1garkqSt3dMft4-W4z1B16mIWVY6F-fRJMo4SpgoeZ5bq882dcOas4vIHye9q5vYZEwByY/s1600-h/DSC02262%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02262" border="0" alt="DSC02262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkHqKSTJb6sBfz8QudBhsIsnIJP6HbyNMJXsxPECEJYARiKARfe71JoE8Y0bHi93Ilp4K03iD8gIypaq3uNGCdZeQCXd4-ivlo0DvLDWwki-_brlR-ONY3A55korIcttEbhmuUyEsY8uM/?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <p align="center">Another picture <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKf27_PrU-lVWP-dHMX9b36SQSKOOW5nImvGB6MM8U2hcCA5rnGtonIZfg0aDbAPhDLUqgCiZfh1ZpI4F55ra4TO1MQTdkCFAspxdRgxZrKyR4z52jHfzF5DW3YylT4QSfrFvcA81wfEs/s1600-h/SAM_1058%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="SAM_1058" border="0" alt="SAM_1058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbj0pF8FykY-LB3wDVK_xKsw5Iwj6Ti7tkwoHLulF0JJXJn5ijXV1_i-mmNL0E70sK5FBjh_1SMqx8FnPEmoebs8lNBc4z_2LLFx-y6BZy2LtEkvKuXv11DCDVkS4bDnU8N0wfKksUy00/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <p align="center">Another photo of Francisca’s baptism <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghOwBBYJKcvJa8Lrxhh-VKuEHBCrWbVwmnlXqoRwVyGceB_EnNa2I1nTtP7JeozUxyEYq-pY2sIXl8qxs0TAb_QP11VxAPUhLGLlhDpDQcrRLefwPkT2-nLnxGttE-J_mY99_v4tZ-ySA/s1600-h/DSC02241%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02241" border="0" alt="DSC02241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTWdMcq3rZ51iOnf2fdbk98KJcGi51BSLp-OzwIjc1qod9kYJ1SItLM2fSPhxkS_7wgWGJtQ9rzjt0YeKBizJ13gFEfWqJ5d_pHvrjuUwGj3Yddwy2acx5OLI4fE5iM3TDelC4cJmFGIE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <p align="center">Working with Elder Marcel <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih4DcAZ9O7quz0-k2E-ijSRgarUCGEnJkTDk0ifT1dVPeDqg7t5s0p1rHtc9XRQiQjR80cWeNeOnDDM-j40usBE8MXGv2YBPDCF4E03Tt4ldzisIh7_IWNRoFGRq6mDnlj5VNuSdoGAFE/s1600-h/DSC02256%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02256" border="0" alt="DSC02256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrBqY_j1TdcsP3cKirBCjfgs7VuflamQxeZHBnuPxb1h1Xr9mgqNkVsA3fwU9rTagUSgcmVaUcGp9ItKFxIGVSAjiVsZUxTHVD6TgbmQKPd5D01x863xt3OwDYRRqUPIS4s64ZdM2YfME/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <p align="center">Elders Guerra, Marcel, Burge, Hurtado <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8lMhcDHaBK8W7H9Q5C6WFpg8cMvGKuFaPpcJPXLinjca1Dr4lES6D6_eSzdQY25L689OlGPOXYJ6wyjY9-0FUnv09Pl7jutEIoaGYBOMrrf_CeZB8m4KgsIq1-2Rxoz2FbCrGftnMm0/s1600-h/DSC02268%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02268" border="0" alt="DSC02268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG07QDjE5POk-WJ_sPAtJyHsktsFtqax0XptRsJfz-eGh5i46bb_WIoWR7G_ns6HmTA_k51LQqI7ALP1S_DAYOl2mEauuSwcvousmiv0b6eFjpbEx15JFDfBcLcexWtK6sW0xGVCyvIU4/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <p align="center">Sunday school A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-72767164753875943972012-12-03T10:30:00.001-07:002012-12-03T10:31:56.634-07:00I got my carta moroni & a grandson<p>Hey Family! <p>Hey I need some info from you all...I got my Carta Moroni (the letter that tells me I have 3 months left and they need to update my info so that they can buy my plane ticket). <p>Name of the Stake President: Chad W. Allred (if this has changed I need the direction of the new stake presidents house). <p>Name of the Bishop: My paper says Kevan L Whipple, but it’s not him. I need the full name of Bishop Gibbons and his house address. <p>Everything else should have stayed they same...same house, phone number, and airport. I feel stupid because I took pictures of it and wanted to see you a picture of it home but I forgot to bring my cables. <p>I am glad to hear that an Apostle came to see you all there. It’s got to be cool to have one there to see you all in person. Have you seen their eyes? I swear they can read the entire soul. I remember when I was in the MTC I got to shake hands with Elder Anderson and his eyes ate me alive! <p>So...3 days ago I get a call from President. Elder Burge I have a challenge for you. Your kid, Elder Guerra was training a new missionary but it’s not working out...so you’re going to have to train him. So Elder Marcel was sent to Rio Bueno and I am here now with Elder Hurtado. Elder Guerra told me, when I got to the bus station, that he only wanted to be put with a gringo companion. This guy...is....so weird. He is from Bolivia. He, to be honest, is a strange guy. I now can see the difference between Chilean Spanish and Bolivian Spanish. I like Chilean way more! I have to teach him a LOT of stuff. He didn’t know what apostasy was. Pray...A LOT! I’m going to need it. <p>Strange Fact of the Day : I am training my niñeto (Grandson), who is also my Hijo (Son). I feel like I am back in Grantsville where everyone is related. haha <p>My fate for the rest of my mission is set...When I get done with him I will have only 6 weeks left. This means that I will be...an ETERNAL DISTRICT LEADER! It’s so sweet! Everyone is laughing about it. I will probably end my mission here in Rahue. The chances of me leaving are nonexistent. But I am actually happy about it! I get to make friends here and give it my all. Plus, the last day I want to head back to the other side of Osorno to visit my last Barrio. It would be sweet. <p>Sunday, I got told at like 10 o’clock when church started that I would be teaching the Principles of the Gospel class. I had 20 students, 5 of which where investigators. It was sweet! I taught about the Second Coming and we laughed a ton. <p>If I was on Facebook my status would be: Still looking for new investigators. It also, strangely enough, started to rain again! This is very odd for summer. But hey, that’s cool still. <p>I am glad that you are all doing well. It’s so cool that Sam will be endowed! I love the Temple, and I want to go to it either the same day or the day after I get back from the mission. I am going to my favorite temple! Maybe when Sam gets back he will be home in time for my....WEDDING! Haha, just kidding. <p>I love you all. Please keep reading the scriptures, going to church, and praying everyday. It’s so important. I am probably the most worried about keeping these habits I have made. They say that good habits are easier to get rid of than bad ones. I want to keep getting up at 7 and doing my scriptures study. It’s so important. <p>Tell Sam that I will be waiting for some good pictures of his mission and companions. I can’t wait to see the difference between our missions. He will be a great missionary. And he will baptize lots of people. I just know it! <p>Take care, <p>Love, <p>Ben</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-52472726488192957462012-11-26T10:32:00.001-07:002012-11-26T10:32:45.205-07:00Francisca’s baptism went really well<p>Hey Family! <p>This week the baptism went well. It got all pushed to the last minute. Our ward mssion leader is 18 years old and really doesn´t want to do anything. So, we had to plan and do everything last minute, but lucky for us everything worked out. The only problem is now that we don´t have any people that are progressing. We have to find some people to teach that can progress towards baptism. <p>Thanks for checking up on my garments...I´ve heard here in Chile that the mail gets lost a lot and so I am sure that in about 2 months more my stuff will be getting here. I am glad you sent it to me. I need new garments. <p>Wow Halo 4....that’s so crazy...and I heard Windows 8 came out. That’s so crazy....lots of stuff is happening now days. I am glad they had a good time playing. How is Silas doing? How does he feel being so old? <p>This Thanksgiving we were in the mission home...it was good. We got to eat some good stuff there...but today I went and found a new food joint and wow...La Gringa (an American hamburger) was AMAZING! Haha, I also got my hair cut from a gay guy from the Dominican Republic today. He is way nice and always is happy to talk. He does a good job. <p>2 payments left? Wow...that’s a weird thought. It’s going to be really cool to get it all paid for. Then you´ll be back to paying only for 1 mission. I will be going onto my next mission....the "eternal" mission. Let...the...hunt...begin.... <p>I have seen parents come to pick up missionaries...it’s not that great to be honest. First off, you are still tied to the mission rules. Second, it’s A TON of money. Third, all you really do is visit the people you knew. I would much rather meet you at the airport and from there talk with all of you, show off my horrible Spanish skills and tell stories (and oh...how many stories I have). <p>Josh is out in Kentucky...wow. It’s so weird to think that in 2 more years Sam will be getting home and Josh too...and I will (HOPEFULLY) be married. I will be in school and studying. They will be walking around. Sweeet....Then I will be the one Skyping with them. They are going to have such a good time. The time goes fast...and you start to realize how bad the world really is. You also find out a lot about yourself. My next cambio is...the 19th of Dec. When I get changed...Sam will enter his mission. I think I am going to ask permission to write him straight to his email. <p>I am doing really well...I love life. I just keep on doing the best that I can and trying to stay on the right path. The closer to the end I get the more it seems I am tempted and Satan tries to bring me down. The pressure gets pushed up, and I have to keep on moving. <p>I sent some pictures of the baptism we had with Francisca. I hope you like it. <p>I love you all... <p>Ben <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi9glYWhQSpgBMx0pFvF9gh7bRhvvo36_K9JnHp3LL__8x3SJ1wV2xDaP0AW-UvqOhQLxNL95OwOmJw03aFSbxhM4MAYrNSoxxeXxkXd-ZboO435FggqTZyaoAjEfI6DiFS8hn6Bkf5uc/s1600-h/SAM_1058%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="SAM_1058 (2)" border="0" alt="SAM_1058 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8SMkZnLQ8XyPzOcimDkJrNBgdjcz8L-uikYcyNIMPL6gMmKdf29Jw7vp2GkfjXIQJ-2UDgmrVJf-bvJmWkDQ1YrlqVEc1M121U2lVi0mHNoON_8JB0iKLMzzvxfo3AotirhfPG8j2TU/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPqyQiE0yyxzzVoKZuTE28APibLnAwq6Yh0Jrqzz6fPvzTbxY8AZ_rtPd8sjulQjI357YsihRD22IZlSxONfU4FKPFQUCOxNo4DVgBhNaOmszDGCM93cvc70xVHq0EJOD2fky_pTGOr4/s1600-h/SAM_1063%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="SAM_1063 (2)" border="0" alt="SAM_1063 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtLnN7Hf4AyR6rqVcPGaN8kTxb9d6-ze80iLC5jChu7kBKvO18c4QdsxPw2_EYK-x5_JPHvamCcA1uu4aYcsUlM927YgxMW_kykmjVCSZf8HTnAiRkDYY8RLAtOcp8oboswrbaFDh3c0I/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-57108847911700807582012-11-20T20:11:00.001-07:002012-11-20T20:11:57.910-07:00This week has been really good!<p>Family! <p>This week has been really good! We just blew this week up! We will be having another baptism this Saturday, and they picked me to do the baptizing! The last baptism was of Daniela. We found her when we were contacting on a Sunday. She had always wanted to be a Mormon but her mom never let her become one. She is now in Santiago. She says she wants to work in Australia. I am glad you liked the pictures, it was one of the weirdest things to happen to me in the mission. <p>Sounds like everyone has gotten MISSION FEVER! I will get home and not a single person will be there...not a single one. I remember when I got my call and then I started finding all kinds of Chileans in Tooele. It is so crazy. From the looks of things it sounds like Sam is having the same thing happen...but with his “small” people. I know he will have a good time on his mission. It’s a great thing to do and in the beginning it might be hard, but if he will just hold out it will become his life! <p>I am glad Emilee put in papers to go on the mission! It will be a good thing for her. She had always said she wanted to go. I am glad that she could finally achieve her wishes. Its fits that she should go to France as well. She always had a love for Europe and stuff. <p>Today came letters from the ward and the young women. Haha, I will now go home and open them and read them all. Hopefully I can answer them all. It will be sweet to see how everyone is doing. Thanks for sending me the package, I am sure it will be awesome. Hey...those garments never got here. I don´t know if you can check to see if they got here. <p>Silas, the big 16 years old! Wow, I can´t believe he is 16 years old. It just seems like yesterday that you sent me an email to say that he was turning 15. Now, when I get home I will be driven by my little brother to the house. How strange! HAPPY BIRTHDAY SILAS, I hope you have a good birthday and everything goes well. <p>Sorry that I am emailing on Tuesday...we had a Thanksgiving dinner in the mission home today, so they changed P-day to today. It was really good...I got to see lots of NEW faces in the mission. <p>Take care! <p>With Love <p>Ben</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-83215625431999622072012-11-12T08:48:00.001-07:002012-11-12T08:48:06.734-07:00Back to Ecuador for a Baptism!!!<p>PICTURES!! I hope you like them...I got called to go back to the Ecuador Ward to baptize the investigator I had found with Elder Barriga. In one of the pictures you can see that I am a bit...ODD. The mother of Daniel put her arm around me. It was really weird...haha but my face is priceless! It was super cool! It was good to see all my old friends and Bishop. He got a little water in his eye when I had to go again. <p> Things here have continued to go down hill. It’s been hard on everyone. Missionaries become unmotivated, investigators pick up on it and lose their will to progress. It’s really sad. <p> As for the end of the mission coming up...I still haven’t thought much about it. I think it will hit me when I get my Carta Moroni. It’s a letter that tells you that you have 3 months left and they need to update your info to be able to send you home. Maybe then it will take a bigger effect. However, I am glad to hear that Kayleigh is ready to come pick me up. I will probably still be in Spanish mode...so she better start practicing Spanish! <p> As for Christmas, I really don´t have any idea of what you could send me. The truth is that I don´t know what I will need...after Christmas I will have like 2 transfers left till I get home. Maybe just send me candy and socks or something. Sorry, can´t really help you out too much. <p> Sounds like fun having to run around and getting stuff ready for Sam. It’s hard work, but in the end it’s worth it. It will be weird to not see Sam when I get home. However, I have gotten use to not seeing him. Shouldn´t be too hard... <p> The other day we had a class on the Word of Wisdom and an investigator was there. He read a scripture wrong and a guy in the class completely destroyed him. It was HORRIBLE! It started a huge fight between brethren...and in the end Nacho (the teacher) stopped it by destroying the guy who attacked the investigator. Haha, it was so funny. <p>Thanks for writing me...sorry I don´t have any crazy stories. I do love you all! <p>Take Care, <p>Ben <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixHMJdlsQ5m9EDFKJ285l6eFygcniOuw2vLCZ07mz55k5fsjziUGT94J6nkXjOMnXFmK4-xU4nc0Zti18QVaTTc4psrVTUEHpsmf3cRmb_B7mejQalVvr42TTBkWtJaN34vaWstd5WZls/s1600-h/DSC02199%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02199 (2)" border="0" alt="DSC02199 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIlQADBre5faj_zoDf_oCgWr0wTHiZTXKW73i1ISs4_rAG0En5SiBZFxKyZduHGu8h-69HkLlkl9wXI38Ij-NvL4sFV2FPtRVV9tHpt8hQ1w3fIwYFry6z5ZZRQpZh4B-8gO1nr13XBqE/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8kIqRjMGwWjViKStYki-f9-eatRRB88UMjTaJAIfTjzFo9aZzq1U5jN145v_ZV5wug1Z4byeFWNUDlpCeRmo1wy8l6nggHxERN0hSjUM2RMX9dwUbPKnNHzVkZVavgHgYhOjC5UVP-tA/s1600-h/DSC02198%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02198 (2)" border="0" alt="DSC02198 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2P7_sXn10qkYasFKVq-ZzxeH-MoIUA9QxHAkZZb3hMoxVR-PMITya5bzyJ20y4so7Xbsz-Yefo4RmEm5BV2Zby6DwVWdINHPcnjr6MDUI5GLXcoM8gOjTygTLQtH8QuGTVEUwy_vgP8c/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntSTSQgh-s1gCLDLQEjJwah2kVt5c3I5OZZ6jqlIoJjFPlgi7wGZrPuy3LVUC8wBbtF_39oW9EpjdCCOnljQYuVgcikTh_inSkpVX3E0SRnni4XNn8STtFAivO2gfRWtZDCW1zY4yiqg/s1600-h/DSC02195%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02195 (2)" border="0" alt="DSC02195 (2)" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHPwitIP7rC-V6C_l0hHVbyXcHlsvZ80cwi1_U8pHg1OqLFiGSzL_iDKZtFNaziAKQRv5lw5W-mzHarSkEN1jW9jo3VzWCWp3Ihlbr8OeQnfdbaj1w_LhMvv906q5pfCIzteAF8Ny2naA/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-63550929100869707342012-11-05T19:03:00.000-07:002012-11-05T19:03:27.981-07:00It will be really weird...Within the next 2 to 3 weeks my Carta Moroni should be getting hereHey Family!! Looks like the difficulties of the mission life have come again. The baptisms we should be having will not be happening. It’s really lame...but hey that’s ok. I don´t think I will be leaving here until the final...c<i>ambio</i>. It will be really weird...Within the next 2 to 3 weeks my Carta Moroni should be getting here. It’s the letter that asks for your info about your house before you go home. As for the stuff about Sam....I would follow the packet as close as you can. Waterpoof backpacks and rain gear will be very, very good to have there. The water proofing stuff only works for a bit...water is starting to get back in. To water proof here we put all our stuff in a plastic bag and close it up. Get him 2 thin but well closed (and with a good hood) coats so he can use one and wash the other. And if you can...try to find him some type of rain pants that go over his nice pants. Here I put on my normal pants and when it starts to rain I put on a second pair of waterproof pants to keep me dry. But we are coming out of the rainy season. As for the money...here things are much more expensive here than they are there. For example a liter of milk is 650 pesos, or like a $1.25. There you buy 4 liters of milk for the same price. All missions are different...all presidents are different too. The double sheets are so that he can wash one and have the other ready. When I was in the MTC you had to use your own...but if you didn´t have some they provided bedding. Hopefully I answered all your questions. Sam is lucky to not being learning a language, because he gets into the field faster...it’s a lot easier to learn scriptures and other things. Plus he will have a great time with the people, because he can visit them again really easy. Tell him to start reading the stuff in PMG...you don´t really have to study it but just read it. Sounds like it was hard for Daniel Arnold to have his big brother leave. But he’s lucky...he will be able to see him again when he gets back. 2 years will go by in a wink of an eye and things will go back to normal. As for me I am getting close to the end of that very wink. It’s hard to get close to the end of the mission for 2 reasons; the first, is that you try your hardest and God throws down the hardest cards he´s got to try us and form us. Second, your body starts to wear down. I have been getting slower and the weight on my shoulders gets heavier. Things in my life are good....I am hoping I end my mission as a district leader. Shortly, this month which now has just started will be over and I will be making plans to talk over Skype with you all. It’s so crazy how fast time goes. Thanks for loving me! I love you all. With love, Ben<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-775362024035802662012-10-29T15:46:00.001-06:002012-10-29T15:46:11.709-06:00Hermano, yo sé que soy un borracho, pero ¿puedes orar por nosotros?<p>Hey Family! <p> Wow, it’s the end of October. Where did the month go...the cambio is almost over, too (2 weeks left). Tomorrow President Rappleye will start the cambios. It’s been going well for me...been a bit tough with the other two guys in the house. One is very prideful and has attitude problems. It’s hard on all of us...we always try to stay away from anything that could cause him to want to fight. <p> Mark from Upgrades ETC...sent me an email. HE STARTED HIS OWN BUSINESS! Haha, I was so happy to hear that it’s going well. He says it’s paying off and will probably open a shop in Tooele. It’s so funny! <p>Sounds like Josh is pretty much gone! He looks good in a suit and tie. Hope he likes things humid and hot! He might try to do some "work" on the car. I am sure he can pull out another 5 miles to the gallon. Sounds like the soup was inspired. I bet it helped to have you all there to support them. Now, Sam will be heading out. When I get home...no one will be there. It’s so strange. I still can´t get over that it’s been almost 2 years. <p>Rian looks a lot like her Mom and Sam´s looking pretty skinny in these pictures. He looks bigger, too. Has he grown? <p> I am glad I never started drinking or drugs! Here in Chile, I have seen the lives of people completely DESTORYED by drinking. The other day...we were contacting people in the street. 5 or 6 drunks asked for Cien Pesos (less than a quarter) so they could buy something to "drink". I stopped and said I couldn’t give them any money, but I had a card they could call to get a Book of Mormon. As I walked away, one of them called me back and asked me, "Hermano, yo sé que soy un borracho, pero ¿puedes orar por nosotros? (Brother, I know I am a drunk but could you please pray for us?). This was in a very busy street...but I decided to sit down with them and pray. My companion was stunned. He couldn´t believe that I prayed there with them. After the prayer I shook each by the hand and told them to take care. They all looked at me with smiles... I couldn´t believe I had done that. Lets hope they remember. It seems that the "<i>Better, more free life</i>"...seems to end up being enslaved by some power (Drinking, Money, Drugs, Etc...) and just losing all hope. <p>Sunday, I had to lead the music again in church. I remember having to do it in Puerto Natales! I don´t know why I had to do it...in a ward of 100 people. But, I did it. COOL HUH? We had 7 people come to church and a baptism this Saturday! It was THE WORST week I´ve had in a while. <p>Well...I sent some pictures of the house. I hope you enjoy them. <p>I love you all very much. Please, take care. <p>Ben <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZHdW_oQtOG7uRmuqaV0i0KSuXZHfEV6PdoFPs-4TVDP-G0Hi-zwwRUkZa960FVQGnYFY8fJpjN6crroCQD7DdeGNoMd1lMBPRazmlbmpi_SkFUgPsojDGYkvyZA3JbqC7XDCvgBjPUA/s1600-h/DSC02194%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02194" border="0" alt="DSC02194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_J1wHSdYh2tvLkOtaEO__dj1dpJSVtLGicaTuThNutvTi9pq7HbBsaXorsfKj6Xl7kvlxauQrL_0iU0Oo5Lq8Syn56uMqx7-V5RMrJ1QMrpxyL-vcAQOoxzaBrY7-eCpiccBm0hJJpk/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a></p> <p align="center">Welcome to our home!!!</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSdih_KwamlmCeP52pf8SLaB9-uNcc35uQwFd-rhyd3SitWdBSP_eGsqTjyU3IegSQ925eigDKHgTWl3QLETLwA_qyp1i-LTLq7g_NdCvKjfaJ7ezr_N8ccDkuBRi1RizgQmu9oa4YtyE/s1600-h/DSC02187%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02187" border="0" alt="DSC02187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7FdDl-8-bci5lj-w7Y6jvF7Hyq0qR9mtCb39N2uAoUpkIvPdvv1_2FbMJtXGt92KkPw2Bbfzp78spHMVdFK5T79ZWpNb2lKVyo7ozTaaa-2J9e5j3u-lWLiMP1RZVuICGhJr7s3GGoc/?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <p align="center">The other White House <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj92ypWpTKvfcstPrduOqbtUrz_ZJBRdDEHG3XHupPEuZD5cNQfgnSaXAMandXXxQepRK_GZw0iuvSQnxIpXaW9x-0e2GOQBTCds5Qxe3O3aTO7e1K1QTrqiO1nYdjUF77q69UF1x72pag/s1600-h/DSC02184%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02184" border="0" alt="DSC02184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoRbrwW9nR4LDeaAhUEOJlevcPQ8_Yz_VbOIa3pfn5fipq5AmBVoNA_OkTE46esBfxFjaGjpNbXrc_8UAnqKcgVSFvtQ81zblk_dWCzbKOiyuvg0jLDS69y0OZhvEINmqaNX2Ec-k4p2Q/?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <p align="center">Elder Marcel, our study area, and my guitar <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4lA4cmc2U7dxd2rljDvL5qV7X1jHnMXeRLKFiLrM7Xoq1fIXYzezxWipyoPKYtcg9ZCNc_jpxdzOq1QUjklsv3fF-q1P9XA60VapVtn3zkQsbFkwvxpcNsIQjjYYYxK39Oq_YSM9SDg/s1600-h/DSC02180%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02180" border="0" alt="DSC02180" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P3JiVjV9UU4/UI75DGptSlI/AAAAAAAABZg/gPu-GY15hEs/DSC02180_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <p align="center">Our room and our window leak <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWgHOxasEyqIwufUclvVSA5G_10yuRwdsHzlAlF9AOS9GcKtyXVhwZMVXxfVSLb9q1ZO0s8tJxRO9tnWUs8i24NimCF6Co_DKSFKxdENcZmbl5cx26ip1_O_UiU7JMYK3X9a1q_7zcPKE/s1600-h/DSC02179%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02179" border="0" alt="DSC02179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6Gb7kMSJPPlOGf3nt79qzTuYXotPK4HeqfXVVTEapxiIhuJhZ3tAgahtLpYSQ3QlnF29-4ZRV1KmAVlq_sbImT0UTleEt4KdC2ZUCowUWlvlo2czuT3H7Nv9LymCRfIS2sREhHoJpis/?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <p align="center">My bed <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQJdu2wSN3Hi85zY_lAFmRlruSIo7HlgtXAKJp-YN9G536AJOT38fUzyauNZsI9eP-SQhS7E-1VULvSNPkoH4fra8cvFXGYLh3FbnygQCRe9n3Q_6FkFNCe_KM40qIAhjxO6CtGAI7vE/s1600-h/DSC02183%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02183" border="0" alt="DSC02183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0_m8VrSY9FAZwZqNjbGacRFTjj0Mp_jKrT0UJyhZbxojiF8NwoTxntqNaQbE4bVwEhK8nUw7AQavwGmsjVaBdFa_prue_LHhIT4ZOI9pAnbjDth6d9iQAQb8M-1vhFGb9nM5KzCrwmCY/?imgmax=800" width="139" height="244"></a> <p align="center">Our view <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpY2VKACiwfoPrXDUrBwCENTet0-kF-zONoL_vK-D3hTzldrZnDeX2Dv6S6F42kQrNgyDKsQMqg4x_cYjKfVt5VtLkpVzIuj_ONIMNJZO1SkoHLYItTREye6Y1r4BSn9TaGYV4Cp4sKA/s1600-h/DSC02188%25255B11%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC02188" border="0" alt="DSC02188" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_ygXxPZhc_I/UI75IRCtaTI/AAAAAAAABaQ/u-NdthRETnQ/DSC02188_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="139"></a> <p align="center">Dear diary, my gringo companion is very strange!!! A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-50232268926053968802012-10-22T17:41:00.001-06:002012-10-22T17:41:16.081-06:00Wooo Hoo!!!<p>WOOO HOO!!! <p>THAT’S SO SWEET! I CANNOT BELIEVE IT! THAT WAS SO QUICK! He is going to the MTC way sooner than I thought...and well...I won`t be able to see him. You’ll only have 2 kids in the house for 3 months. Oregon will be a great mission! I bet he’ll have a way cool mission. He will be able to speak the language and everything right off the bat! I can´t believe he’ll be able to go to the temple on his mission. I am so jealous...I haven´t been in a year and 6 months. <p>As for the mission stuff he will be buying...I would buy some good quality stuff. He will be in the states where things can be washed normally and he’ll have nice places to live. You should have 2 light towels, and plenty of garments and socks. Make sure to buy shirts for about a week and 3 days just in case. But basically everything I have is holding up well. <p>Things here this last week were very crazy. As you know I have been district leader for almost an entire year...and I am always finding new things I must deal with. I had 2 elders in my district get into a fight (with words)...while I helped them work it out, one of them asked to talk to me alone. He opened completely up to me and told me how he felt. I helped him out, gave him a blessing, and we had an intercambio that day (he goes with me and my companion goes to his sector). Then I watched a guy get robbed...and the police came right around the corner and held the thief down! Haha, crazy...then an investigator got into a fight with her boyfriend (who disliked the missionaries) and we found her in the street. We talked about it with her and then her boyfriend called. The next day, we showed up to the house to see her and to check up on her. Her boyfriend was there, and their kids...he let us in the house. We talked a bit and laughed...he then invited us to eat with them. We couldn’t because we had another cita...they also told us that now they are going to get married! She’ll be able to be baptized now! We got to church and after calling all morning, no one showed up. I sat down and prayed that God would please help someone get there by some miracle. Then, while I was sitting there I saw an investigator get there with her sister. We ran and sat by them, and then...ANOTHER ONE showed up halfway through. She said she wanted to go to church so she did and she found out that her friends come there to. A recent covert to the church was made a high priest this Sunday...and he told me, "When I opened my eyes during the prayer, we were encircled by a ton of people dressed in white". <b> </b>It was so cool to hear that. <p>We also had interviews this week with President. They were good...we didn’t really talk much about me. I told him what was going on in the district and we made plans to help them out. Then we talked about the computers here in the mission a bit. I have to start looking for a replacement as the computer tech. He told me, "We need to get you a scholarship in Dixie so that your close to my house to fix my computers." I laughed pretty good, but I think he might have had a double meaning there. OH and the package got here with the food and so we went to the church in Mata and played soccer and volleyball and ate the candy together. And then...I GOT SMACKED IN THE FACE WITH THE BALL....it hurt pretty good. <p>We also had a GOING TO HAWAII activity in the church. I got to make a video like we were on a plane...then the video of us dying! We died and and went to the FINAL JUDGEMENT...it was a good activity. <p>I am doing very well...Skylar wrote me. It was nice to hear from her...I get so busy that I just don´t have time to send the cards. I live kinda far away. I feel bad...but I will write her much more often. I have been having a great time with many new experiences. Sorry I can´t send pictures again...I don´t have much time. We got started late today. <p>I love you all so much! <p>GOOD LUCK SAM YOU´LL DO GREAT IN OREGAN! REMEMBER YOU’RE SENT THERE FOR A REASON! IT’S THE PERFECT PLACE FOR YOU! <p>With love, <p>Ben</p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-90887582784686555402012-10-15T14:27:00.001-06:002012-10-15T14:27:11.999-06:00Elder Marcel does a great job<p>Hey family! <p>About the Garments...I tried to get permission to buy them online but they wouldn´t let me. So I asked how we can do it, and they told me they were just going to call you. It was so lame....I didn´t like it. I could have done it in like 5 minutes. We have been having some problems with the New APs. They´ve gone either power hungry or just down right lame with stuff. Everything has to be done with permission, but they have been saying no to everything we want to do no. It’s really lame. <p>The mission life is going well...I am having a good time here. We played soccer and volleyball today with the zone (after a long hour of trying to get permission). My companion is really cool. Elder Marcel does a great job working. It’s been hard to get used to having 4 missionaries in the house. I found out that a friend of mine from here got called to the Salt Lake City South mission!!! He will be going there in February and I will be home in March. It’s going to be so sweet.... The momita here is a good one. She gives us all the normal Chilean food. She does our laundry for us, too. We HAD 9 people getting ready to be baptized, but they didn´t come to church, so now we only have 5 people. Pray that they can get there and do all they need to do. <p>I hope Sam gets called to a mission out of the States. Maybe it will be a really weird place he gets to go. But maybe he´ll get sent to Chile! FINGERS CROSSED! <p>Sounds like the good jokes on Mom are still happening. Haha, I loved scaring her to. <p>Sounds like everyone there is having a good time in school and NOT WORKING SAM. It’s been really interesting for me these past couple days. We had so many miracles happen. We found a ton of people and taught a ton of lessons. But, we got to taste the bitterness of opposition. Some of them didn´t get to church, and others changed their mind about being baptized. It’s been interesting. I have been trying my best to change my way of praying. I have been trying to master fervent praying. It’s hard work. I, at times, fall into the same old rote way of praying. <p>How are all of you doing? I hope your all well. How’s the scripture study and other spiritual stuff going? Sounds like Mom liked the general conference. It’s good stuff to work on your family history. I want to work on it when I get home. I think that it will be sweet to get to know the family. <p>I love you all. Take care and stay on the good narrow path. <p>Love, <p>Ben </p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-88868350454494583232012-10-08T09:04:00.001-06:002012-10-08T09:05:00.147-06:00Transferred to Rahue Bajo 2 with Elder Marcel<p> <p>Hey Family! <p>I am doing really good. I have been healthy and eating well. <p>It’s been a good week. I got to my new sector...Rahue Bajo 2. It’s on the other side of the river here in Osorno. Different Zone, but same city. I am a DL. It’s pretty cool here. Elder Barriga came from this same sector! We live in the house with 4 of us. Now I am back to the same old Lunes (Monday) P day. It’s cool. My companion is named Elder Marcel, he is Chilean. <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTG2x1Q3A2tim-T4tSKfzMuTTFavm5IFSsjkBSlDQTAjJj9_AQHXKnmKkfzqZQPeQ7F3IlOOfhGGnrEKClj5VMIU_ok-ACJoFRS66Rc4bXbeubkWSRpwRRQnLnnad9QHvTxygu45jB0Jc/s1600-h/DSC02177%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02177" alt="DSC02177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZFszNFPhwQnjXpMfl5-2hDBRc6w58t-36QRwirq7gtVmIZW4E4O87aU7lr8w-UM3vnot5K0gYX5NeA2FhQTvPbs3Gw0kULcL5zOE4BS3Ogem0NrNLVK0Y4VdaCW6zrj0hPQC9Np3DBQ/?imgmax=800" width="240" height="135"></a> <p align="center">Elder Marcel & I <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig0eF_w72s5SS8ah2IAubjBxE8oaxYRQoRmQz6aQvPiTUDgC9rwqGDRarA-lcHzlwSFqK9hkPib7ILvHbl-n_zkTdEfK9mvnX2eBnsykHzeQXzPGlMlr-F8oFHcigmOMnpBjUmFXQ6Omc/s1600-h/DSC02178%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02178" alt="DSC02178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe7Fujwc4dYdKqAeLLEogThYr1Ln28iYSoyxfYKcSNtuTM00ApE1kGP683VAjBuyioeTWFYnVHFsZJna4Rn4k3NXCJwHj9kOZRkmuiDrZjyPknazLIZg3tZLO5-b_CP6CmnATA_COTlHc/?imgmax=800" width="135" height="240"></a> <p align="center">Everybody loves a guitar <p>Before I forget, I am going to be taking out some money...I need to buy some clothes and garments. <p>Sounds like everyone is getting ready to head out...and looks like all the new 18 year old Elders and 19 year old sisters will be heading out soon! Haha, what a crazy new thing! It’s going to be so crazy to see such young missionaries. This conference was really good and I learned a lot about what I need to do to help others and myself. I loved it. <p>You never know maybe Sam and I we will see each other before he heads out. It might be a bit till he has to go. It’s going to be pretty sweet. <p>I am glad to hear that Mom felt the spirit so strongly. If we live right and try our best, God will bless us to have the Spirit. It’s funny, because without the Spirit we cannot learn the truths God has for us. I know that it’s so important that we have the Spirit when we teach and learn. I am trying to be better about inviting him to be with us. Mom, you’re a good teacher. God will support you in the callings you will receive. That goes for you to Dad. I know God lifts us up to do things we can´t normally do. <p>I hope that you all keep reading and praying everyday. We must stay strong in our testimonies and keep our own conversion going. Not much time left to to prepare ourselves. <p>I am sending lots of pictures home! I hope you enjoy them. These are some of the families in my old Sector and my new companion. I will send more pictures of the house next week. <p>Thanks for sending me the package. I will be good! So before I go, I HAVE to tell you what I learned. <p>The original plan for me was that after my 2 cambio in Lago Ranco, I was supposed to be made Financiero. But someone said it might be best to wait, because it’s a stressful Job. Haha, how crazy is that?! Looks like I have been guided to the places where I God wants me to go. <p>I know the church is true, and that God the father and his son Jesus Christ do live. They love us, and want us to have success. They will help us become what they want us to become. <p>Love, <p>Ben <p align="center">Ecuador Ward Pictures <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_e8yVhRCV-zYfZpo4orcosbZmYcZ3_rA-d7TwowDu741hHRtpG1zMzfEPWNugfj0cgUr4QTMYvqWP4rkyLMIe3QPas0znmM0CYNRcR_dHaU8wfTL8BXRzxerctFpLkH67B0y_VrTJDN4/s1600-h/DSC02118%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02118" alt="DSC02118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia7IJpFiyozC4J7YX48OTUzyZW6KIWU7Tt34yelzF8GqTMWxDvT28LQndPgQxMF9NoHPRw64wtUkzc_rMu-IOWI8NL3S8sPsstNj1fziXl2pGvXzTW3MdzZV4zs2IuwHzhXrGk7ig3FPU/?imgmax=800" width="240" height="135"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFw7rJ5OGS609sonBPl9NyU-RElfcGmkoND9LM2NPBMXHNDtlKg24sx49iziMxps_5mSOzD8XBwvRzdFXPNYpEhGSYGux7ocjwk3x0-GrWgakiNVgq3wXNT74kFC5vT45Bg4gixbMuxcc/s1600-h/DSC02120%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02120" alt="DSC02120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDv014qBvcTIf-zuEdjKekCL9HBNb8g8cwHPkDPTOcZYIt52Ux3s5Tu7cHEJyuYwpmNsa_OZX7sYg8ZUEB2IMT_OrLL6EQpFjPu8vsAqorsucEtH8Wsjjv4OeJFNqHDdooWTVGuk-8ogw/?imgmax=800" width="240" height="135"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QQlg_hhgP8g/UHLrddIXbOI/AAAAAAAABV4/dkZEqCT_TZM/s1600-h/DSC02137%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02137" alt="DSC02137" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WczB2GitxFM/UHLreBATNlI/AAAAAAAABWA/wy8jykr5hIs/DSC02137_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="135" height="240"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-eGSgkviERoeVJkjRaeYmPa8RPH7JJ8jbmCYO86rN8Bxybxu6gWasJ24VOkxUdjlew6lshfEIrFSoKN6bCf97zN43OddGvzDN7XcfyH54PjVvnyARL44_2jdIpFW7M1OBY8TcUnOaPfg/s1600-h/DSC02140%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02140" alt="DSC02140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dlZ8L_EXAbIGPe771eqmXOFDdMAh1_VlvnYMGFrgqJ50IZXKfGs9cuqeU_0DOa4TvHQP3eGbG3NUJEVciJZK9fgJ_zNlocqQR4ONcWzDqN9MtN7ounNY1einHm2gbCpo_BJoPdxu23g/?imgmax=800" width="240" height="135"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl5n7hBSYrx1nm56l5IMkFHmlzcQKuaBwHd3cTZXdClMQmXLTwrlx9658CoYeFUJrEEZ4j3HMhVihJi5OQC6-FKRODaL7-mTkFzLKwUz5v5OspwDu87r_QZ9chcV2L1zsi86CAszohTts/s1600-h/DSC02143%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02143" alt="DSC02143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_Je6Vk5JGwBaSYbcDykeIeEVsZT1OjAFOaetogUVfx2VQKzfHJx-OZoDv6yKzJYZEeBRtupKH_cWcCZ84bUCELKlluYw7uHPI1wrHt6v2VAjUKeLptsmG664YK6upg7R5DbtcjcoPIg/?imgmax=800" width="240" height="135"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkTWpKS3dF-n-95LQMnHVI1aBQPxsGzbc2l7nWiqjgDBiSRppoSKf4Ax9onVp_NRbxWadJ0Dp7g9kOCB4g9Sbv38YvwEiKjsLkxPl7f5trBpCcfagcRfQtGhsrUE9Be_HXyqfTx25xEk/s1600-h/DSC02150%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02150" alt="DSC02150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6Vu4N3b20j6ErxayO2kSHd0lyIFN07km5Q923wlvp1bYXuKxGTrb8tt4n6VGwjCBOuwG3VtBnfJ8ZEIEtxRgn_dc-nDvb7Dbun1q3UtWz33q7qhR-QuWN2jYdFIIV886r2LPkJwKsds/?imgmax=800" width="240" height="135"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE3tSLy8IoEnaYeqVnSegho0uYMDovIJyXL6fbIu7gOqBsRYB-8jXeIeKBEuzyW-uB_zWMUYpcOJWjt12MYXBIwD2JgZiO0-yAEf0gCAqaB81vXBJGPhvNJSv8r0vhHxjqeQb7I9gZSFA/s1600-h/DSC02155%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02155" alt="DSC02155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsyxybn_Cpc4AsduKJ9_MNIxbcNpReYKx6j35uCM9ylWZaKUP0PMOCR3sj4QpXuBxTeXLI03qj3ceN1SpCcGx6s2nm7RhdUvX9DlUILcvNRkXKjaP4OxKdN4ygCdASzhuPijAbHNMJ8PI/?imgmax=800" width="240" height="135"></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT9qySOzAEVAs9NqMD4wkt5qOGxktsXojTjawN6BDio5f2o7qCMxykyw2LVwcMF5ZZ-sOk3GhULr6J_xf6bNLJ_pF1p3dWNcpiwIdtFRmmeLXB2O_s03iawGKgfH1mPgkUW8mRJESQlSw/s1600-h/DSC02156%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="display: inline" title="DSC02156" alt="DSC02156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKxmRaPGGx7irHbp5IoC3MCM3pUmWFF0YUJrfSJb9aHSuBoBS74Sb54wMMUGAzjtyPiEsfD8xd1Kv-gneDk48BP4jtNT5yKvmWTrlx0ib0R52hdYDHu7f_SzODpiYRRwskZa_ZnfDRIG0/?imgmax=800" width="240" height="135"></a></p> A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8020753262478308232.post-23135005010206958352012-09-29T13:36:00.001-06:002012-09-29T13:39:58.812-06:00Last General Conference in the Mission FieldHey Family! Before I forget...would you mind sending me some lickerish (I forgot how to spell it I CHOOSE YOU SPELL CHECK! DONE...hehe) I am glad you liked the pictures here are some more. We went to bowl today. It was ok. It could have been more fun. This might just be my last P-day on Saturday...how strange. Woot! Go ECUADOR WARD! Its good to hear that Sam has his interview. I think he will go to a place outside the states...I am thinking...CANADA! Or somewhere like unto the first.... This mission life is great...just have to be ready for crazy stuff and food. It will be weird to not see Sam for 4 years. But he’ll do good. Silas, having trouble in English class......the good old days. I am sure we are pretty close to the same type of person. I realize now that, like you said, was the reason that we fought. We are going to have a blast when we are back together. Halloween isn’t as big here. They do, do it here. Sounds like you had a good date night...I can honestly say I haven´t had a good steak like that for such a long time. Oh well...some day. I hope you all have a good conference this coming weekend. I hope to receive lots of good help. It is my last conference in the mission field! I love you all take care! Ben <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW8zB8XCQL4-sMTpuv4xx4GXLI-3PfE7f7Yj15mWog0oo1wdM3jEooetk4NeZ5lM4uz6WsOYfF2_H6_osvrmhZdtTnP_hOz715EmBmIFMlccuw4AkJOCQ0vkc-MGrEsABAE7NAf4-1EXk/s1600-h/DSC02087%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02087 (2)" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILqgahPFZoGNIUOdXCF9U0Is_5-7kVgmH_tgB_UUioHBNNhigNqDF5PTrG5rK7wSB33o3LsNCyqc39QaNjErdVw4OpMDSpuzzV4H2AGsU2HX7uHHg5hPDLBkznAnfJ1LyDOqyRQ6_Iv4/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02087 (2)" width="244" /></a> <div align="center">
Bowling on P-Day</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifwn8U04wCPwJW-fho3MEs7tU67kxZIUV3hL838kAcnT1UdtWVbeSyMocvDX_mYV1B1YCOPAtQ15uk3d3pZNRog3vglwMCd61pTiuBgQ4kZzh2rK7KazJfpqOj7j8Kda82pHZrNsyAdd4/s1600-h/DSC02104%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02104 (2)" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzX7QiP99jVK_j5SaX1dTXI2AjQ8xlsoVNgHgEK81XhsX7duXHKzrhzGrw3gSA4gyQ88vzjFLLSLQyX3mlCvBStzuUNlC32fCwTmPF4se_zeGCyn3ykY5hh2cgFRmS_CEo0lohadLjn14/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02104 (2)" width="139" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Elder Barker about to juggle some bowling balls!</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyC15R6TZm8Ql9VPV_nBBE1_vkGnN6Ti_oQ-ExkA6wwLC0Zu23Z2ndh1g6Mj9VeEJ_QeBzg3pOyLo0vHuZKo69GCvW5EGOgdzIGX6somWwOBu7OV1h4OgfD6Jou1IiQGgAWkgoNeJvbXU/s1600-h/DSC02084%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02084 (2)" border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6D2rGmTDkReYkmhF1M_tDnXr7l6yXRK-xY4wkE5XdQFju7GK0Fa3eZ3NPpyneark2h-lRLj88iF_yf43PgWuoTobyQVUhKhxfCKgCfHw57HpZSzlQCgkfZS6LjanpX5ANmp-AFyoVJA/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02084 (2)" width="244" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Bowling Fun</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplxyEojzAY6T59GyBSxfgRu9DMlFq336TX6jpAAkNqHn7WCYzyVhlfhfkI8aNipdLELtISN3HNOquhdOLCQsPxfjodxEh70cMYN1Kc5ZV9WINwKW00rBXC8nJqc97cawghsVbCGLSCN0/s1600-h/DSC02102%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="DSC02102 (2)" border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqQtI1tGRO_wdtUofkMnNmkn6pHBG915LNWc9PsrxxAy5oP0YgjtFiqVwVlh2NR1gZGIDoNB1DHnkllwEh9tj4R_2FcHzFlSBLFEIwFdhyphenhyphenWo9EY-AXktVhhmui5Oo0uITCNm6Ixe5m2Ow/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px currentColor; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC02102 (2)" width="139" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Elder Barker</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />A. Burgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02410575655401388551noreply@blogger.com0