Muy buenas tardes de Sauces Toluca. Today we had a dope Elders conference. It was the first time that all the Elders in the mission were together at the same time.
I haven't been this tired in MONTHS. But I'm still decent at soccer so that's good.
These are my homies I'm gonna room with at BYU (except the kid in the middle. He's cool though.)
These past two weeks have been kinda lazy because in our area. No one who lives here is from here so during the holidays they all leave. This week we're excited to get back into the grind.
Two weeks ago on the 24th we combined wards and the Primary president from another ward spoke. Here in Mexico there's a tradition that sometimes is more popular than Christmas, It's el dia de los reyes magos ( or day of the wise men) and it's January 6th. That day the wise men bring the gifts to the kids. however, in Guadalajara she said that normally the niño dios brings the gifts. The niño dios is Jesus. That was really interesting because it really is Jesus who brings the best gift, which is eternal life. Because of his sacrifice, we will someday be able to overcome death the same way he did and be able to live with our families forever.
Also with the dia de los reyes magos, there's a special cake thing called a rosca, and it has a lot of plastic niños dioses inside the cake. So basically everyone cuts the cake, and if you get a niño dios, then on February 2nd you have to bring everyone tamales. It's a pretty fun tradition.
Finally, one of the best young men's leaders ever (well all of mine were actually the best ever....I got lucky) but anyway Brother Fisher sent me the Seal Ethos (the Navy Seal Creed) in a letter a little while ago, and it seemed really interesting to me. I decided to make a missionary version. (if anyone who was a Seal gets offended by this sorry, not my intentions.) Here it is:
Missionary Ethos
(modeled after the SEAL Ethos)
In times of war uncertainty, there is a special breed of man ready to answer the Lord's call. A common young, but with an uncommon desire to succeed. Forged by adversity, he stands alongside the greatest missionaries that have ever existed to serve God, the people, and bring them eternal life. I am that man.
My plaque is a symbol of honor and heritage. Bestowed upon me by God himself, it embodies the trust of those I have promised to serve. By wearing the plaque I accept the responsibility of my calling and way of life. It is a privilege that I must earn everyday. My loyalty to God and the people is beyond reproach. I humbly serve God's children wherever I'm assigned to serve, and whatever the language may be. I do not advertise the nature of my work, nor seek recognition for my actions. I voluntarily accept the inherent trials of my calling, placing first the happiness and eternal life of others. I serve with honor in public and in private. The ability to control my thoughts, words, and actions, regardless of circumstance, sets me apart from other men. Uncomprising integrity is my standard. My character and honor are steadfast. My word is my bond.
We expect to lead and be led. In the absence of leadership I will take charge, lead my companions, and accomplish our purpose. I lead by example in all situations. I will never quit. I persevere and thrive on adversity. The Lord expects me to be more obedient and more dedicated than others. If knocked down or rejected, I will get back up and try again, every time. I will draw on every ounce of remaining strength to bring salvation to the souls of men. I am never out of the fight.
We demand discipline. We expect dedication. The salvation and happiness of my fellow brothers and sisters depend on me--my obedience, my dedication, and the spirit I carry with me. My training is never complete. We're constantly training and have an eye single to the glory of God. I stand ready to share the gospel anytime, anywhere, and with anyone. The execution of my duties will always be done with the utmost love. Braver and greater men than I am have gone before me, and have built a grand reputation that I am bound to uphold. In the worst of conditions, the love I have for God and those that I serve steadies my resolve and silently guides my every deed. I will not fail.
To finish, I just want to share one more saying that I learned which is "no hay viento que favorezca un barco sin rumbo" or in other words, there's no wind behind a boat without direction. I hope that makes sense. But this new year as we're making new resolutions and trying to change, we need to remember that if we have no direction, there's no wind that is really useful for our boats in life. One time another super good leader named Brother Rawlins said "a goal not written down in just a wish" (I'm sure other more famous people have said that, but one time Brother Rawlins said it too). Lets all put goals this year, so that there will be wind behind our boats all year long.
I love you guys and hope you all have a great week!
Elder Jones
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