IT HAS SERIOUSLY BEEN A WEEK!!!

HELLO MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS IN AMERICA! It has been a FABULOUS week here in Danli Honduras and I have lots to tell!!!! 

FIRST shoutouts.... Emily, Blythe (is there anything you CAN'T do girl???), Steph, Jess, Lizzie, Lara (AND GIRLS you keep kicking trash.  Your big brother is rooting for ya ALWAYS!), Emma-Lee, Assael (I miss you babe. What more can I say?), Nanny and a short little snippet last week from Ellie.  I love you all, and as always, you remain in my prayers!  For those working on You Can't Take it With You, SHATTER YOUR FEMURS.  And... Thank you all for the birthday wishes. I'm lookng forward to Noche de Brujas. Though.... Here in Honduras they don't celebrate it much. It brings bad juju or something. So.... By those who know my birthday, I am now the bruja. Which means witch. So... That's cool.

OKAY NOW THE BIG STUFF. 

First, this week was filled with moments of calling some people out.  When I first got here, I thought it would be hard to not give money to those in need. Okay.... EVERYONE asks for money JUST because we represent Jesus. So that actually bugs me more than anything.  

Now, two examples of things I called out this week.

1.  This guy follwed me and my comp (on splits) continually asking for money. 'Solamente viente limps, mormon, viente limps.' Finally, when he pulled 'Jesus would give me money', I turned and said 'NO, Jesus would give you OPPORTUNITY, my friend. We are not giving you money, I am sorry. If you want a message, we can provide.'  And... he left.  I could analyze, but really... Just Liken the story to our lives and what all that could be symbolic of.

2.  There was this group of kids late one night.  And when I walked by on the way to an appointment, they started cussing in english. like... BAD words. Specifically, the F word strewn through other vulgar statements that I know they don't know the meaning of.  So... on the way back from the appointment, they were still there.  This is not entirely uncommon, but I was in a good mood. So... As i passed the turn, one (probably 12 year old) loudly announced, terribly pronunicated, 'HEY WHAT THE F GRINGO.'  And.... I had enough. I turned around, pointed at him with what felt like the finger of God and in clear ENGLISH stated 'You WATCH your mouth.'  The kid and his friends stop dead.  One of the others, weakly and pathetically goes '...ummm F?' I walk toward them with FIRE in my chest and, in english, give them a lecture like I can't remember.  They look at me like deer in headlights.  I ask, 'understand, my brothers?' in spanish. They say no. So, in spanish, I some up my thoughts in this statement - 'If you don't speak the language, don't use words you don't understand with someone who does.' I then left them in complete silence. I passed them again the other day. Not a word.

So... That was pretty intense.  Pretty fun actually.  But I feel that I should explain the reason for my outburst. This appointment that I mentioned was a pretty special occasion...

Nazareth Peralta (18), Dayani Galo (12).

Two more baptisms baby.  And my moment with those kids was before and after the beautiful service.  I had the opportunity to baptize Nazareth, and my comp baptized Dayani. Incredible, as the first.  I think I am only beginning to understand how precious this first covenant is.... But either way, that was amazing, and the reason I wasn't willing to listen to badly pronounced curse words that day.

So.... this week was great.  I also want to share a bit of a funny and terrifying story.

So.... I hate spiders. Yeah yeah, I'm a man, that's girly, it's just a little spider, oh I've heard it all.  And this week, during a three hour long service project for one family in my area, my comp and I heard this several times in playful jest. But... Here's the twist... 't's just a little spider' TOTALLY applies to american spiders.

People.

The project was moving hundreds of heavy panels for roofing. And in between every 5 panels or so... Were these spiders...

Look at your hand.

Now imagine having 8 fingers, covered in hair, and the ability to leap clean over a human.

YEAH. A WHOLE LOT OF THOSE.

......

....In a nutshell, I overcame my fear of spiders this week. And, if I was, I am no longer afraid of cockroaches.  Or snakes.  Or frogs. Or really every kind of evil giant bug possible.  I mean, people... these things, in a matter of seconds, would climb up your arms, up your legs, surprise leap at you, and really just bring the demons of hell to life in front of your eyes.

No big deal.

And, on a side note, at this same appointment, I got strangely good at using a machete....

....Totally unrelated...

.........

Actually totally related cuz I FREAKING MURDERED THOSE SPAWNS OF SATAN WITH THAT SHINY BLADE AND I DON'T FEEL AN OUNCE OF REGRET. YOU SICK LITTLE DEMONS CAN BURN WITH YOUR MAKER.

So... That was also a little exciting. But, on a good note, now my future wife can rest assured that I can be the man of the house when it comes to bugs. And yes... even spiders.

Love you all. In the words of my comp...

'Hey. Don't have dream about dose spiders tonight in chore bed or anything. Love chew.'

Until next week.

Elder Kristian 'The-Freaking-Demon-Spider-Killing-Machine' Ooof

Song of the Week - Carry On by Fun

Love Without Condition

Okay, HI.

SHOUTOUTS, Dad, Emily, Blythe, Steph (GIRRRLLLL WAY TO GO), Jessi, Lizzie, Crys, Natalie (FREAKING WOW), Camille and Kailey.  I love you all and I hope all is well and always feel free to tell me things that are going on... Yes, I'm a missionary, and AS such I can't do a whole lot. So... I don't get stressed. I just pray harder for you. Feel free... I always want to listen.

So, this week was a great week for the work. We have a lot of new investigators and new families that are super ready for the gospel.  We have two baptisms ready for this Saturday and these girls are READY so... I look forward to that!

The fact this week was easy with the work was a blessing, because this week was also one with some moments of pretty hard news.  

The first, is that a good friend of mine decided to leave the mission.  I only ask that you keep him in your prayers, because he is a truly remarkable man. It was his own choice, and he was a powerful missionary. On this note, I want to comment that when a missionary comes home early, Utah is infamous for the infinite judgment.  Okay, people? I am laying down my view of the law here. You DO NOT know their story.  In many cases, some would rather DIE than come home early. That is heartbreaking. These are 18 and 19 year old boys.  We've made mistakes. The standard of a mission is hard, and really, anyone who goes home for ANY reason, it is THEIR business and THEIRS alone.  Missionaries are NOT perfect, though we try hard to be. Just remember to love as Christ did. Love without condition. That is our job. Judging is for Christ and the person involved.  

And, the second, there was apprently an earthquake in El Salvador that was pretty powerful and hit most of Central America.  Yes, a few of us in Honduras felt it, but it was very light and I only slightly questioned if one was about to start when I felt it. So... We're totally safe.  However.... I have four very dear friends in El Salvador right now. Pray for them and their familes.  Elder Kimball, Elder McKell, Elder Marriott, Elder Newey.  

So... Those are the more serious thoughts of this week. Since I have to write fast, I rarely have time to proof read and edit what I write, So... If anything ever sounds forward or a bit angry or anything, I promise it is NOT. I have so much love for the world, and for all the poeple in it. So when I address hard topics, I do so with love and empathy. If it sounds brash... Just reread it with a more.... Calm, but firm tone.  Because honestly, as missionaries, we stand as representatives of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. That is a heavy calling. And, as such, we are expected to be as he was. So... We are full of love, but we stand firm in the word of God.  So, when I address these topics, I try to do so in a way that Christ would.  Firm, but with love. 

ANYWAY, just wanted to make sure you all knew that. I don't have a lot more for this week, and I hope to relate some stories of members and investigators soon, but I think I will take excerpts out of my journal for those. So... Next week. Maybe. Hopefully. 

I love you all. Please pray for the people mentioned. And for the more intense parts of this email, I can sum up my thoughts in the words of our Beloved Prophet, accompanied by his little wink in his final address during conference.

'And every day, may we all try to be... *wink*... a little better.'

God Be With You.

Elder Kristian Huff

And, also, my songs of the week; Maybe by Sick Puppies - dedicated to my feelings about the world and my investigators and The Scientist by Coldplay.

Wet Days on the Road and in the Water of Baptism

Hello, my dearest friends and family.  I just want to begin by reminding you all how much I love you. Nanny, Kailey (Ohhh that poem.), Lizzie, Blythe, Lara, (Caroline and Gracie - I love you), Terry, Jessi, Emily, Steph, Jeri, Mom and Dad and Jakob, I LOVE YOU ALL.  I really don't know how we don't say it all the time to EVERYONE. So.... Now that I have reminded you all, here is this week.

This week was a little bit different.  Not different in a bad way, but... a week of learning. This week I experienced some of the best moments I have ever experienced as well as some of the most eye opening experiences of my life.

To begin, OH MY GOSH IT HAS RAINED EVERY DAY.  WHICH IS AWESOME BUT ALSO KIND OF HARD WHEN THERE ARE ONLY DIRT ROADS.  Here are the rules of walking through Honduras as it rains.

1. If you can see footprints or tire marks, AVOID.

2. If it is a puddle, judge how deep it is first, (ohhh how good I have gotten at this. Trial and Error), and then if you think it won't swallow your leg, PUDDLES ARE SAFE AND ACTUALLY CLEANs OFF YOUR SHOES.

3. ALSO YOUR SHOES GET FREAKING HEAVY CUZ MUD.

4. If it looks damp-ish, it is almost always safe.

5. If it is like, a stream, make sure your footing is stable.

6. ROCKS ARE YOUR BEST FRIENDS.

7. The bottom of your pants will get dirty. Just stop worrying.

8. Also so will your hands.

9. And your face.

10. And really anywhere that isn't completely soaked will be dirty.  

11. And finally, avoid the edges of roofs.  The rains come out of nowhere WAY fast and if you are at that edge... You will be completely soaked within milliseconds. 

12. Actually, the edges of roofs are your friends if you are dirty. Free shower.

So.... I LOVE THE RAIN.  It is seriously like living in a dream. I can't BELIEVE how much it rains.  I like... CANNOT DESCRIBE HOW MUCH I LOVE IT.  The rules are simply for remaining presentable as a missionary in said rains. :)

Next part, I can't really go into a ton of description, but we have this baby in our ward that I am pretty sure is everyone's baby Cuz someone else is taking care of it every few minutes.  I honestly do not know who the actual parents are.  Just think about that.  Cuz I think it's freaking awesome. But a little worrying too. Oh, Honduras.

Also, my bishop feeds me really weird things. And then laughs when I am hesitant when the food looks kind of scary - But it is usually pretty good! And his spanish is super loose sounding, so I can't always understand him.  So.... he just laughs and howls at me like a dog.  Yes.... My bishop and I actually communicate (strangely well also...) through dog sounds.  Oh, Spanish.

Next, break down of the Pentateuch (which I just finished):

You need to read Genesis. Just.... To understand like everything a million times more.

Exodus... Moses is freaking AWESOME and the Children of Israel are kind of stupid.

Leviticus. Oh, Leviticus. I read you and I only felt weird and tired cuz you repeat yourself a lot and get really weirdly specific about rituals.  Mostly just rituals. Actually, Just Rituals. 

Numbers is the close of the wanderings of the Children of Israel and a lot of numbers. Go figure.

Deuteronomy was actually pretty interesting, as it is Moses talking to the Children of Israel in like... Sermon/History-Story-Telling format.  Also I cried when Moses left. AND HE NEVER EVEN GOT TO GO INTO THE PROMISED LAND. GOSH DANGIT CHILDREN OF ISRAEL WHY DON'T YOU LEARN.

So... Yeah. There you go. :)

And... Now to the things that were a little bit harder.  The learning moments.

First, we were driving with our bishop to visit this family that is a bit menos activo... So, on the drive (I love cars.) we come to this HUGE freaking hill. I get all excited cuz I was thinking to myself (HA any other day I'd have to walk that. NOT TODAY CUZ WE GOT A CAR).

As I thought this.. Our bishop's car gave out and rolled backwards all the way back down the slightly-less-steep hill that we had been traveling in car for about 5 minutes.  

.....And....

We had to walk. .....why was I even surprised?

And when my comp and I arrived at the house (the bishop had to stay behind and wait for someone to help him fix his car) we stopped in the middle of the clearing. And.... I didn't see any house. Just a lot of trees on one side and nothing on the other.

We walked around the small group of trees to find this wooden... house?, literally held together by cardboard boxes and some wood around the outside.  And inside this tiny room, lived a family of five. This was their house. 

I have seen some small houses while I have been here, but nothing this lowly and humble.  

And that isn't even the sad part.

We go in to find the father in a serious sweat on the bed, the whole family just, sitting around doing mundane chores, like pulling corn kernals and sweeping the tiny room. None of the family had shoes, and the father, we found, had been out of work for about a week, because of a Dog attack. 

He laid on the bed half conscious, when he said in a weak voice 'hey, it's the missionaries'.  He reached out his hand, to my horror, to see a huge gash through his whole hand and bandages (which were probably the remains of an old shirt) over several fingers.  He obviously had no medication, and he was in severe pain. While there, we sang him a few of his favorite hymns and then gave him a blessing (I have learned to never leave my apartment without my oil.).  For the first time, I anointed the oil in spanish with no book and no help from the companion (I have given three blessings this far).  After, we left. And I have never been more humbled and heartbroken.
I was told one that as a missionary, you can only help people in two ways.

1. Give the people a million dollars.

or....

2. Bring the people the gospel and your love.

Well... Right now, I only have one of these to give.

And the other humbling moment was a moment of the most happiness I have ever felt.  A kind of unreal, unearthly happiness.

I had the priviledge this week to baptize my first convert - Marcia Ardon.

The moment was surreal, the words came out of my mouth in complete clarity and I don't remember thinking about them. I just said them.  I immersed her in the water, and... coming out again, I just remember thinking that this 11 year old girl has just made the covenant of salvation. And... I was able to take part in that beautiful moment.  Uncle Terry, I want to thank you for baptizing me. I haven't remembered anything about my baptism until I walked out the font.  Then I remembered it all - And what joy. What utter, pure joy is it, when someone allows the spirit to touch their heart and become converted to the restored gospel. And the opportunity to baptize Marcia was one I will never forget. I thank her for letting me, and I thank God for the opportunity to take part in this incredible work.

I love you all, and may the Lord bless you all. When things are hard, remember that that is how it is SUPPOSED TO BE. Salvation Is Not Cheap.  And, also... always remember, as contained in the Gospel of Luke concerning the atonement of our Saviour:

'...and Christ, being in an agony, prayed more earnestly...'

May we all pray more earnestly as we try to become more like our Saviour and Redeemer.

With Love,

Elder Kristian Huff

Song of the Week - A Call I Hear by Peter Breinholt (the music starts after about 13 seconds)

Gratitude

HELLO AMERICA! (-Ariana, Day In The Life)

How are you all doing??? If you get chances, email me little snippets about your life.  For those who already do, (This week, Dad (I love your letters.), Mikaella (Freaking girl I love you.), Elizabeth (OH MY GOSH THAT IS SO WEIRD), Steph (love the pictures!!!!), Crys (You know I love you. Look for things directed to you in this - the Spirit will help), Nanny (not quite a scholar yet... But I am on the way.), Jessi (Hey, thank you for all you are doing. honestly.), and Blythe (I LOVE getting stuff from you.  Seriously. How do you find time for that? That is amazing.)) KEEP SENDING AWAY. I LOVE it.  But... Never with pressure.  Only when you can. ;)

OKAY.... To start, HOLY GENERAL CONFERENCE.  I mean, wow. Talk about inspired messages.  What I got out of it, (in a small portion) is We really freaking love our Prophet, we need to take better care of the poor, and we need to realize how important the sacrament really is...

Interesting....

All this leads back to one person....

But I am sure you all know who that is.

I wish I could write more, but I totally forgot my GC book.  So... Next week I will give more specifics.

HONDURAS TIME.

Okay, to start.... Honduras really is wonderful. I am living a dream.  Yeah, there are hard times, and I might share some here and there, but overall, I just marvel at the fact I am here and what I am allowed to do.  It amazes me and I am just... Humbled. Always. I rarely get a chance to take things for granted here - and that is a true blessing in my life here in Honduras.

This week went by FAST for me. I swear, I was just writing last week's letter. But, I always have stories.

To start.. Just to get the weird stuff out of the way, that I hope makes you guys laugh first, then kind of consider the implications.  For me, I see both the humor and the haunting truth at the same time.

Mont Connell, if you ever read this, this is totally directed to you.

... THERE ARE SO MANY NAKED PEOPLE HERE.  SERIOUSLY.

They just... ARE. SO OFTEN.  In the middle of a lesson,  a woman we are teaching starts nursing (in an otherwise.... OBVIOUS way), or a grandma walks in without ANY clothes on, or people just forget miscellaneous pieces of clothing that are otherwise a little bit important.

OR... As of THIS MORNING, people just walk through the streets naked as well.  I am a little bit convinced the man was not entirely in his right mind.... But the thing about Honduras? There are no cops, and... well... no real law enforcement period.  So.... The traffic is TERRIFYING, and the naked man walking down the street is... well.... almost acceptable.

.....

I find this both a little funny and a lot of disturbing.

.... Implications?  Now, for the man this morning, I am guessing it was a result of alcohol or other substance abuse.  Odd, and sad, but the implications I am talking about are a lot less about the sad aspect, interestingly enough.

Living here is like being a part of one, huge, intimate (to weird extents) FAMILY.  Seriously! These things are normal, not because they are uncivilized or crude or dont care, but because they are unaware that it is weird!  Here, in Honduras, everyone is perfectly comfortable together, regardless of religion, age or circumstance.  Everyone knows everyone, and no one has anything to hide (quite literally).  Yes, it is weird to a white boy from Utah, but I got used to it strangely fast.  It is endearing how safe everyone feels in such a humble country.  And, in a flattering (kind of?...) and untraditional kind of way, I have been adopted as the pet gringo into the giant family that is our area.

So... Yeah.  That is my story of Honduras for the week.  Hope it brought some smiles. Also, teaching the Word of Wisdom IS HARD. Like, 11 year olds cry over the no coffee rule.  And so do like, 60 year olds.  Oooof....

Now, for a more spiritual story.

Our bishop lives next door to me.  And I actually give his 18 year old daughter english lessons.  She is very good as it is, but that just means time for me to speak in english. Hallelujah.

This girl is truly a sweet spirit.  And, as such, she asks me questions and loves hearing about America.  As a result... This week was full of flashbacks.

First, A Day in the Life and the Disney Concert.  I dream about those shows still, and more so this week.  All I want to say, is I love each and every one of you from those concerts.  Everyone in Glee, everyone in Dance Company, everyone in band and orchestra and choir and my choir boys that set up the stage perfect EVERY time and everyone from theater and the casts and gosh.... I love you all.  One song in specific of this week was It's Time.  I still hear all of your voices singing the parts.... Starting with Jocelyn and Olivia, Kailey, then myself, Jessi, Jonah, Kelsey, Sabrina and Janaya, Austin, Reesa and Allison and James, Lizzie, Josh and Alyssabeth and finally Sophia, with dance solos from Megan and Jessika and Rose... And of course, the new people of this past year, with Alexa and Joy and Tyler in there somewhere, and Avery and Crys and Mary and honarary Timmy and JB and Shawn and MiKayla (oh how I miss you, girl.) and Kaleb (OH how I miss you Kaleb) and Natalie and Jared and KEVIN GOSH KEVIN I MISS YOU AND BAAAHHHH FREAKING ALL OF YOU.   (If I missed anyone, i am sorry.... I am rushing and those were the ones I recalled the fastest, But I dont think I missed anyone from Glee. Camille, you are in there too.) She loved listening to my million stories about all of you... And gosh how I miss you.  Thank you Niki and Kimie and Rochelle and Greg and Robinne for the many opportunities I had to share with these people.

These memories are precious to me. And speaking of which, I want to kind of post... A tribute. Alomst.  I hope it doesnt make him feel uncomfortable... But I have seen him uncomfrotable.  That was NEVER a place we wanted to reach.

So...

Second. This is hard for me.  I dont ever want to be sappy... So I just want you, my friend, to know how sincere I am right now. A message of love and appreciation to my brother this week.  To my mexican, Assael. (you know I love you, Jakob.)   I have been missing you more than I can describe. Showing this girl pictures of you made me cry. And... I just want you to know how much I love you.  I love you, with all my heart. Brother, there is a special place in my heart for you.  And I dont care how old we are,  when we get back, we WILL watch happy wheels and adventure time and HIMYM and eat hot pockets and talk about all the weird stuff we would and laugh and cry and play guitar and vent and stay up until who knows when and sing Green Day just like we did when I left. Right now, and this week, those have been the most cherished of my memories.  I love you, Assael.  I love you, my brother, and my best friend.  No one will ever be who you are to me. And that is my best friend in this world.  Remember when we got yelled at for singing Animal on the roof? Or when we got the cops called on us? Or that night when those guys came to my grandmas house in the middle of the night? or 'nahhh man we're sleeping' during fast offerings? or setting up the Africa Project page?  or interwebicles? or our handshake that I literally do on my own all the time? Or singing Les Mis and getting Taco Bell and wrestling and making really weird songs about kind of inappropriate things? or the nights you stayed up with me when i was heartbroken? Or vice versa?

I do.  

And I put this here because I want everyone who reads this to know how special of a person you are.  If you dont know him, you should start.  You are one of the best people I know. Thank you, brother.  (Songs of the week are dedicated to you, Assael:  'When the Cold of Winter Comes' from Lord of the Rings and 'Run' by Snow Patrol)

In the words of Green Day...

'We'll soon be home... We'll soon be home... We'll soon, we'll soon soon soon be home....'

I love you all. Until next week.

Elder Kristian Ooof

Lonesome Dying Polecat

Well. HEY.

So, shout outs, of course!  Emily (I still dont know how soon... but bear with me!!), Steph (I really love your emails.  I am REALLY sorry I dont respond directly often, but I WILL.), Lizzie (Well, if its coming from you... I can handle it. And its even more of a complement from you. :)) Kailey, Neys, Terry, Jessi! AND I LOVE YOU CAROLINE AND GRACIE AND TY AND LARA AND EDDIE.  JUST SO YOU ALL KNOW.  I love you all and my thoughts are with all of you.  I love reading about whats going on in your lives... And with anyone who is struggling in some way, I am learning more and more here that you need to trust yourself. Because God is preparing things constantly... So trust yourself, and ALWAYS talk to God about your questions.  Trust me, you will know what to do.

NOW, Since this has been my first like, legit week in the field, I can give a bit more description about life here.  

First, we cook all of our own food. So... if we aren't eating with a member or with the bishop, we eat eggs and bread.  

Little known fact about me? I can cook two things particularly well... 

Toast and eggs.

Boom. Almost like God sent me here or something.

Next, as I said before, I am in Danli!  It is not the poorest zone, but not by any means the richest either.  There are definitely sad sights... But Hey, like when Alma saw the poor, he rejoiced because they were HUMBLE AND READY FOR THE WORDS OF GOD. True here too!

Except...

They are all pretty set in their religions. So, we have a definite three baptisms for the 11th, with another 20 something pending (CUZ THEY NEED TO ATTEND CHURCH.) Not bad right?? The reason there is confusion with numbers of baptisms is because although many people really are set in their places of worship... They are too nice to turn us away.  So, four lessons and a baptism date later, they mention that they really don't want to join. 

........uh.....

Okay. No problem. Have you prayed about our message, at least?

....No.... But I don't really want to.

............BAHHHHHHHH

Yeah. In a nutshell.  BUT.... God works in mysterious ways.  So we aren't giving up, but that is kind of how the work in La Concepcion Danli is currently going.  Little by little... And by small means, God can bring about great things. Right???  AND, FOR THE RECORD.  SPREAD THE GOSPEL YOURSELVES.  BE FEARLESS.  The worst that can HONESTLY happen in the USA is they tell you no.  SO TRY!!!!!

Also, we had an AWESOME cultural night where they did a huge amount of native dancing and story telling and everyone knows their gringo and at one point, this beautiful Honduran dancer girl comes and grabs my hand and wants me to dance with her.

Hardest rule of my mission?  No dancing.... So... I had to turn her down... But I apologized afterward and she was being all jokingly sad and I was like... Okay, how about a picture with the missionary gringo who couldn't dance with you even though he wanted to?? (AND YES I HAVE PICTURES ON THE WAY I AM SORRY!!!)

....Well.... To my (kind of?...) dismay, she is like all, 'OH SI POR SUPUESTO AHORITA CON TODAS MIS AMIGAS??' (oh yes of course now, with all my friends) Followed by literally like twelve other dancer girls all FLOODING me and putting their arms around me and getting really close in various poses... (now, you all know me. But its been like, two months with NO feminine contact.  I am literally a lonesome dying polecat).  And that is SOOOOO against the rules.  So... About three other missionaries were all like 'NOOOO no no no no sorry but he can't be that close ladies!' and then a lot of laughing cause this all happened in about .09 seconds and apparently I was BRIGHT red with the look of a scared helpless child without a mother.

Except, I actually had like, thirteen willing mothers.

....

okay, weird analogy. Sorry.

ANYWAY.  It was pretty dang fun.  I love Honduras.  Especially cause I am the gringo in this area.  People that I never met yell OOF pretty much regularly. You kind of get used to it.  If only they would COME TO CHURCH.

BAHH.

Okay, next thing to tell, I teach English to a lot of natives too.  Which is funny.  Cause they will ask me to say something fast in English, and I will say something like 'well, the theory of flying pigs is completely inadequate in regards to what color my skin is.'  and then the laughter and the Spanish (that I STILL JUST DON'T CATCH ALL OF) and my comp rolling his eyes cause he understands English really well. Great, huh?

And, they make me try weird crap.  Like, you cut an orange open, and then you put salt and hot sauce on it, and then... kind of... squeeze the crap out of it and drink it at the same time.  Weird flavor.  But not bad. (sometimes I miss hamburgers).

And a lot of the women don't understand our missionary rules, so most girls still go for the kiss on the cheek (which is normal here) and I am getting better at the pull away and explain technique.

Practice makes perfect, right? And.. I am practicing. :P

And... Yeah. That's Honduras!  I love it.  It is incredible, and hot, and wonderful.


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

And finally, for a quick gospel related message, I want to share my testimony of Christ.  I have been reading the old testament, and I just finished the Book of Numbers, as well as a lot of random stories that i bounce around from (since Leviticus was nothing but Law of Moses rituals in PAINFUL detail).  Overall, what amazes me, is that all of the sacrifices that are described for literally EVERY possible sin of the Israelites, are only a similitude of the sacrifice of the Only Begotten.  Literally, of the history of the beginning of the world, in a group of people who really didn't understand the purpose of it, sacrifices were offered as a tribute of Christ's future atonement.  And the scriptures use those exact words: 'the priest shall offer this sacrifice as an atonement for sin - it is most Holy.' 

And the same goes for the BOM, and all covenants we practice today.  Christ is central.  He is the Savior of the world and literally, only through him can we be saved.  Baptism (my whole purpose right now) is a covenant in which we follow his example.  His sacrifice was most precious and His sacred calling was preordained. His eventual sacrifice was known from the beginning of our generation (IN the Old Testament).  He is our elder brother, but more than that, HE IS OUR GOD.  When we take upon us his name, we are becoming his sons and daughters! He loves us more than we can comprehend! And, yes, I note that all this information may make our relation to him insignificant - like to Him, you are just one of an innumerable number of people.  But that is the beauty of his atonement and preordination... His calling was most sacred, and through means that we CANNOT understand or BEGIN to comprehend, the atonement of Jesus Christ is literally the MOST personal action ANYONE can perform for another person.  Yes, it is universal in purpose, but it is most personal in application, power and in love.  The Savior of the world knows you by your name.  He knows you perfectly, BECAUSE he felt everything you have felt, and everything you will EVER feel in those final moments of his life.  And when you feel helpless... Remember that the Savior HIMSELF, a perfect being, asked God, 'Father, why hast thou forsaken me?' In the midst of being rejected by his own, he asked God why he left him.

Christ himself felt alone.


Never forget that. Because he offers you His love, if only we would listen.

Let Him In.

He lives.  And as a personal representative of Him, and with that authority, I promise ALL of you that if you look to Him for help... You will receive. For the Gospel remains the same, ayer, hoy, y para siempre - so let yourself ask of God, who giveth unto all men liberally, and unbraideth not, and it shall be given You.

Because he wants to hear from you.

Sorry if that was long - but this is my testimony, and I share these things in the Name of that same Savior, the Son of God, even Jesus Christ, Amen.

Hasta Ver.

Elder Kristian Huff

Song of the week requested via Elder Huff, You'll Be In My Heart

Elder Oof

Everybody.

Holy crap so much has happened.  Quick shout outs, Neys (You know I wonñt ever forget, and yes we wll hang out all the time), Mrs. Shiles (I love you, please keep sending the updates!!!!), Sara, Bruce and Elaine, Kailey (Thank you. I needed to hear it.  I miss you like crazy. And I will get you that letter!!!!), Nanny, Jessi, Lizzie, Emily, Crys (You know I will always love you and have your back), Sabrina (SABURRRNA TOOK YOU LONG ENOUGH.... Chiste. (Joking.. mostly) ;)), Natalie (WHHHAAAT), Assael (Oh my gosh babe I cannot handle stuff like this here and I love your soul butt more), Steph (Your hair is perfect and you are more so) and Krista (seriously, thank you. It means more than you know.).

OKAY. STORY TIMES.

So, first, last stories of the CCM.

First, on my last P-day at the CCM, I wanted to spend it studying the New Testament.  What did I actually do?  Oh... you know... playing hardcore volleyball and basketball IN THE POURING RAIN.  AND DANCING TOO.  AND BEING WAY TOO EPIC FOR LIFE.  Yeah.  Story 1.

STORY 2.  Okay.  So there is this kid named Elder Evans. Seriously one of the nicest people I know.  Every day since I got to the CCM, he has asked me to sing You Raise Me Up for him.  And of course... I say maybe, and then... No.  Cuz I am a tease.  The girls back at home know what I am talking about, right?.......

.............CHISTE.  LO SIENTO.  EN SERIO, CHISTE. 

ANYWAY, so he has asked me every day.  So... On my last day, at our last meal, the WHOLE CCM (About 400 peopleish) were all there, right? And I am sitting next to Elder Evans... So... I look at him and smile, and he goes.... #with HUGE eyes# 'are you... are you really??'  And... I was horrified.  I mean, this is intimidating.  I am so scared of looking stupid, but I promised him. So... I stand up, and... ask for everyone's attention - yeah, I am bold like that.  

Now, most of the people on the table have been waiting for this too, so they were excited, when out of the crowd, comes this 'hey, shut up gringo no one cares.' followed by latino laughter. Whew.... Cut me deep. But...I decide to suck up the insecurity that stabbed my stomach at that moment and sing the song for Elder Evans.  When I start, a little laughter still... Then I keep going... And.... Silence.  I sing my heart out for Elder Evans (And he starts tearing up), and I decide to go all the way and stand on a chair. LITERALLY all eyes on me, in dead silence in a room that makes my voice echo everywhere.  And... As I come to a close.... Silence.  Followed by the most earth shattering appluase and screaming I have ever heard.  Even from the same latinos who told me to shut up, stood with their jaws dropped.  (You might think I am trying to liven up the story... No.  All of this is EXACTLY how it happened).  It went on for a couple minutes... Many people came up and patted my back and hi fives and all kinds of stuff.

But that is not all... The president's WIFE asked for everyone's attention and announced that 'the spirit is incredible in here right now, and it is time for an encore'.  So... three more songs.  In the dead silence, while I stood on a chair.  

Scared as I have ever been.  But easily one of the best decisions I have ever made.  Love ya, Evans.

Story 3.  

A very dear friend of mine in my district has been struggling with his knees.  They are just messed up from sports and other stuff, and he felt it all of the time.. In pain once in a while and such.  

Now, this is one of those guys who is actually too cool for school.  He is awesome by every term. 

Next, whenever someone wants a blessing, it has to be through the district leader unless someone else is specifically asked.  

Finally, on one of our last days, Elder Kimball (his name) came up to me and asked me to give him a blessing. I figured he meant the oil anointing.  Then... He said, no, I want my comp to do the oil, and I want YOU to give the blessing.

I cannot in any way describe the experience other than this.  Everyone (9) stood in the circle.  And, in a way and with a clarity of mind I cannot express, I gave my first priesthood blessing.  I don't remember a thing I said.... But when I opened my eyes, I opened my eyes with a new faith.  This gospel is real... And I have a whole new appreciation for the priesthood.  And, I will never be able to express my gratitude for Elder Kimball.  It was one of the best experiences of my life.

One last exciting story,

on one of out last days, we mixed with the latinos to have the 'avoid danger and death on your mission' seminars.  And... I was asked to participate ina small project beforehand.  What ended up happening?  Well... The teacher expressed to the latinos the importance of learning ingles while on their missions.  And then I was called to the front.  I was then asked to show my spanish and practice some nw phrases in front of everyone with my teacher.  My teacher then said 'this is what happens when the Nortes practice Spanish, si?  All the latinos (and nortes) Responded with a firm reassuring 'SI'.  And then, my teacher goes:  YOUR TURN LATINOS.  Elder Huff will say a phrase in English, and you all repeat after him. GO.  Boom. Like, 70 latinos, and I gave them an ingles lesson, while doing explanations in spanish.  

The reason I ended with that story is because it is a perfect spot to start the story of my mission. 

I left the CCM feeling ready for the field.  I was trusted by my teachers, I had (mostly) earned a fair amount of respect with my peers and the latinos, and I felt ready to take on the world.

Then I got to Honduras. (And, for bishop, my first location is Danli).

So, the last few paragraphs I purposefully wrote as enthusiastic as possible (but they are all totally true, no exaggerations), but I purposefully wrote it with the tone of 'yeah, let's do this.'

I need to preface everything else I am about to say with this.  The people of Honduras are incredible. The best I have ever met. Even the meanish ones are still kind. I am honored to be here and I love these people.

Now, I do not want to say I was shell shocked.  I knew what to expect.  It wasn't the modest houses that hit me.  It wasn't the dirty streets or the skinny on-the-verge-of-death dogs everywhere. It wasn't the bagged water (yeah, that EXISTS) or the knock of cheetos called Cappy's (with a trademark cartoon cheetah with sunglasses also) or the severe lack of anyone white (which earns me lots of stares, as if the nametag doesn't do that enough).  

What shell shocked me - was the fact that there are so many sad people here.  Some of the saddest I have ever seen.  So many homeless with eyes glazed over staring at the ground, long given up on asking for money.  Elderly, drunkard and child alike.  It is hard to see that.  I will not send many sad letters... Regardless of what happens, I will usually only share the good.  But this is necessary for the next part to matter.

What shell shocked me more - what literally shook me to the core, is that there are so many HAPPY people here. The happiest I have ever seen.  Full of love for family, for community, for God and Christ (even though a lot of them have never read of a verse of bible in their life), and full of LIFE.  These people are in the humblest place I have ever seen. More than I dreamed possible.  But they are so happy to be alive in one of the poorest countries in the world.  

And the happiest?  

The members.  Because they have the best message in the world in their homes... And they love us.  Because we are sharing it.  THAT changed me.... They have little.  But the little they have.. they give to us. 

And why?

Because 'we are spreading the message that made them happy'.  I know the work is real.  I see the fruits of it every day.  Literally, everywhere.  I Love My Mission, and I Love Honduras.

NOW...

washing clothes in a pila the
night he arrived in Honduras

Okay. Now that I put that all out there, here is a quick run down of my life here in Honduras.

My trainer is awesome. A guatemalan named Elder Roldan.  He is huge. Like... Buff huge. We work out HARD core. And he is a perfect trainer. His english is very good and he has 2 months left.  He is crazy cool.

Next, our house is great. We have to wash our clothes in things called 'pilas'.  THAT is awesome and way fun. Google pictures or something.  Next, and we have actually also earned the name 'pilas' among the members... Pretty much a slang for freaking hard workers.

On that note, we really do work hard.  I am EXHAUSTED but in a good way.  We have SO many investigators, with a total of 15 possible baptisms set up for Oct. 11.  Our investigator list is in the thirties... Which means we go on splits almost every day cuz WE HAVE TO. It is INCREIBLE.

On that same note, everyone knows me.  It is seriously like out of a movie.... I am walking down the street, and I will get about 30 something:

 'EH OOOF. QUE PASA??' 

Translation?

'Hey Huff, whats up?'

Yeah. I am well known... As OOF.  Even three of our young investigator girls have a special handshake that includes a couple snaps and finishes with a wipe of the hand across the forehead with 'OOF'.... Yeah. They like my name. Seriously out of a movie.

I am honestly the only white person.  A lot of people laugh at my spanish... But its okay, cuz then they ask me to speak english and they all go crazy.  Some of the natives that try to learn english ask for my help. Exciting... Honestly.

Well, I don't know what else to say.  I will probably give more specific experiences soon, but... I love the work.  Honduras is different, but in all the best ways.  A bit scary... But only because it is new.  To finish...

I want to tell you all I love you.  You are always in my prayers, and I honestly want you to know I know this church and everything tied to it are true.  I know it with all that I am.  

Haste ver, mis amigos.

Elder Oof

(Songs of the week by request from Elder Oof for this week and last week:  May It Be, I'm On Top of the World, It's Time)

Elder Huff with the Mission President and his Wife

Last Week in the CCM (MTC)

Well, everybody?

I am leaving September 16th for Tegucigalpa Honduras. This is my last official week in Guatemala, and in the MTC!  And today, I went through the Guatemala City Temple for the last time!  Crazy, right?  I am SO ready for the field, I can't even describe.

Really quick - Nanny - the stuff at the temple is so awesome - it kinda made me freak out!!!  I love you.  Also, shout outs!!! Emily, Mikaella, Lizzie, Steph, Becca, Nanny, Crys, Neys, Ellie, Lara and the Girls, Joce, Blyth, Jessi and the mexican.  

And a really special one to Don Miller.  Thank you for the message.  I will respond next week. I love you.

Lara, Caroline and Gracie - I love you

Emily - I love you

Mikaella - I love you

Lizzie - I love you

Steph - I love you

Becca - I love you

Crys - I love you

Neys - I love you

Ellie - I love you

Joce - I love you

Blythe - I love you

Jessi - I love you

the Mexican - I love you brother

Well, first off, last Monday we went to the city - SHELL SHOCK.  Not really for me in all honesty, but several Elders and Hermanas were FREAKING out about it.  I just thought it was awesome and humbled me how these people live like this all the time - it is truly an incredible culture.  We saw some HUGE beautiful Guatemala Central Buildings and I actually got to take my Camera!  Pictures at some point....

So, run down of that?  We got to go to Wendy's (Which is totally not even a Wendy's - except the Baconator tasted the same) and that was great.  We also went to the Map, which has awesome history that I just don't have time to tell... Sorry. But it was way cool!  And finally, we went into the actual downtown market.... INCREDIBLE.  Different... As in there is meat hanging everywhere, the fruit and nuts are cut up and sold right there and there are more vendors than you can IMAGINE.  And everyone talks REALLY REALLY fast. I think I caught the majority of it... But it is crazy.  Best part of the day?  Me and my comp TOTALLY GAVE SOMEONE A LESSON AND A BOOK OF MORMON.  My comp was hesitant... But then I was already introducing myself to the woman before he could stop me.  Then he jumped in too, and we both bore our testimonies and offered a chapter to read as well as a quick connection to the Bible and the Authority that was passed down to Adam, Abraham, Moses, Christ himself, and the purpose of that authority in the restoration. And how did she and her 13 year old kid act? GRATEFUL AND INTERESTED AND SOOOO WILLING.  They took the book and the kid started reading as we left.  Only 2 companionships of three districts did it and YEAH WE TOTALLY DID.  That was the best feeling and I WANT TO BE OUT DOING IT NOW.  So... This week is probably going to be the longest and shortest week of my life.  I am not nervous in the least... I just want to START.

Anyway, so that was the market.  We also saw many people living on the streets and houses that were not really houses at all - it was very eye opening, and it makes me appreciate this message and Gospel even more.

But, since this is my last week here, I think I will give a quick run down of a typical day in the CCM.

6:15 Arriba y Preparar para el Día

6:45 Estudio Personal (Escrituras, Predicad mi Evangelio, Otro Libros de La Iglesia)

8:00 Estudio Idioma (Pre y Post Clase Work, especifico Gramática - I use TONS of flashcards and my district just barely started to catch on)

8:30 Desayuno (Typically beans and eggs of some kind)

9:00 TALL (A computer Spanish studying program - doesn't usually work.  Great idea, huh? ;))

9:30 Estudio Idioma Continue (Más Gramática)

10:30 Deportes (I have actually gotten pretty decent at basketball, and I maxed out yesterday at 200 lbs. in the bench press - which was my goal, so... YEAH.)

12:00 Almuerzo (Meat, rice and beans. pretty good, actually! And an Ice Cream - long story)

12:30 Enseñanza A (We teach an investigador)

1:30 Gramática 

2:30 Misionero a Misionero (A Missionary Investigador - each other)

3:30 Doctrina Fundamentales

5:00 Cena (See Almuerzo)

5:30 Enseñanza B (Another Investigador)

6:30 Gramática

7:45 Enseñanza Latinos (Yeah.. We teach a lot.)

8:30 Estudio Personal (I read the LDM out loud)

9:00 Planeamiento (Next day planning)

10:30 Lights Out

And there it is! Exciting right?  A lot of doctrine, alot of Grammar,and EVERYTHING is in Spanish.  We get in trouble for speaking any English now... And I cannot spell ANY normal english words right anymore.  

But yeah! A story or two?  One of our investigadores kicked us out during a lesson because our member present started laughing during his prayer - but to be fair, this investagador is mean and asked God to help him understand Chastity better cuz we didn't explain it good enough and our spanish is bad. Yeah... we got a little flustered during the lesson cuz he was asking WEIRD questions and we don't know how to say some things perfectly in spanish... So...That was fun. 

In all honesty, I am ready to get to the field.  it is incredible here - but it is time.  I want to do more and start doing the work NOT in a single chair in a classroom.  I have learned a lot about myself and about God's Power and about Christ's Sacrifice.... And I want to share it. 

I love this work.  Knowing the Grace of God and the power of the Everlasting Atonement, and the sacrifices that have followed since, including the Prophet Joseph Smith and countless members, why should we shrink from this work?  This is the literal work of Salvation of the souls of men. This is God's Work and Glory.  In all honesty, this week was the hardest for me.  I felt a lot of opposition.... But that made me rely on Christ and the Atonement even more. And I KNOW this is where I need to be.  I feel humbled and eternally grateful for this opportunity... And I will give it all I got.  Knowing all this, knowing the precious gift that is life, knowing the countless lives given for this cause, knowing our Savior and Redeemer conquered death for us.

One last thing... In the first Vision.... The first thing God says to Joseph is his own name. He calls him by name. 'Llamandome por me nombre..."  God knew his name.  The eternal father and Master of Heaven and Earth knew his name.  

He knows yours too.  Christ saw your face in Gethsemane.  They know you personally... And our whole purpose is to come back.  That is what they want, that is why we are here, and that is what I will preach every day for the next 23 month of my life. They miss you and they will help you every step of the way. Should we not go on in so great a cause?

Comparta el Amor. Hasta Ver.  (Share the Love, See you later)

Elder Kristian Huff

Song of the week - He Was Here from The Forgotten Carols (aka The Shepherd Song)

Here is the Schedule - translated for you:

6:15 - up and preparing for the day

6:45 - personal study (scriptures, Preach my Gospel, other book of the church)

8:00 - language study (pre and post class work, specific gramatica - I use TONS of flashcards and my district just barely started to catch on)

8:30 - Breakfast (typically beans and eggs of some kind)

9:00 - TALL (a computer Spanish studying program - doesn't usually work.  Great idea, huh?:))

9:30 - continue study language (more grammar)

10:30 - sports (I have actually gotten pretty decent at basketball, and I maxed out yesterday at 200 lbs. in the bench press - which was my goal, so ...YEAH!)

12:00 - Lunch (meat, rice and beans.  pretty good, actually!  An an Ice Cream - long story)

12:30 - teaching A (we teach an investigator)

1:30 - grammar

2:30 - Missionary to Missionary (A missionary investigator - each other)

3:30 - fundamental doctrine

5:00 - Dinner (see lunch)

5:30 - teaching B (another investigator)

6:30 - grammar

7:45 - teaching Latino (Yeah...we teach a lot)

8:30 - personal study (I read the LDM (Book of Mormom - BOM) out loud)

9:00 - planning (next day planning)

10:30 - lights out