August 20: 1. Meeting the Prophet. 2. Got beat up. Separate instances!

- August 27, 2018

Another week in the books. We have been able to teach so much more, it's been extremely nice to see how much I've been able to grow from the beginning of my mission to now, teaching wise. Being able to truly study the gospel has made it easier to explain it simply. Which is exactly what is needed, as the gospel is simple. We were able to hear from the prophet last night as he came to Ontario and we watched it over a broadcast. One thing that truly stood out to me is the Prophet made things simple. President Nelson had such an honest smile and taught us about what we should be teaching our children and people around us. There was 9 points he really emphasized. "1. Help them understand why we partake of the sacrament. 2. Especially fathers—read the scriptures to your children. 3. Let them have father’s blessings. 4. Prepare them for patriarchal blessings. 5. Teach them the significance of BIC (Born in the Covenant). 6. Show them how all things lead to the temple. 7. Help them to be honest in their tithing. 8. Warn them about the plague of pornography and how to spot and resist it. 9. Write each child or grandchild a letter, expressing your faith and love." These points I know are true as I was able to feel the reassurance from the spirit testifying that it was a prophet of God speaking and these points will make an incredible difference in your family's lives. Including MY future family....hahahah. Well kinda hesitant to tell this next story but it's kinda funny and want to remember it so I'm going to share. On Thursday we were walking downtown back to our car as we had an appointment and then had another one right after. So we were kinda rushing to our car when out of no where this guy ran up to us and started yelling at us some nasty things ahah. We were kinda on a back street and I normally would kinda try talking to them but knew we were in a rush so I grabbed my companions shoulder and said Elder let's head out. So for some reason we walked out to the middle of downtown (now looking back I know it was the spirit leading us here to protect my companion and I). Anyway this man was still going at us and by this time I just was testifying because he was saying some wack stuff Haha. But we were waiting to cross at this cross walk in the middle of downtown, like there were cars everywhere and people everywhere. Out of nowhere-boom he hits me in the face...I at this point am not thinking straight as he just hit me and almost hit him back. But something just stopped me. My hand was extremely close to his face and I said very sternly and very up in his face. Sir you can not hit me. Like I said it was the spirit telling me to stay calm 100%. Boom! another time right in the face. He turned and tried walking away but I walked right beside him as he tired walking down the street. As I was phoning 911 and wanting to make sure this man didn't get away. As I was talking to him asking him why he thought it was ok I was on the phone with the police and he saw and heard that. So he decided to try hitting my arm then to get my phone out of my hand and try to stop me from phoning and talking to the police. Anyway, long story short, he started to run and I got to follow him for a couple blocks but the police said to stop in case he had a weapon, they said they'ld rather me not get hurt anymore Haha. So there ya go! That was insane! I'm completely ok, this man was older then me and shorter. The only thing the police saw was my arm, my red face is still all good Hahaah. But this was a crazy experience in a couple ways. One being, I was able to see the growth I have had on my mission being able to feel the spirit and listen to the promptings. This time it prompted me to stay calm, for sure don't hit him back as I would've been sent home for it, and know that I will be blessed from this experience. Yes it is crazy that because of the message I am trying to share someone would do this but does it make it right for me to judge this man. No!!! He may have had bad encounters with other individuals or been struggling with something else. Does it suck I had to have that happen...yes. But I was able to learn a valuable lesson and know that I could stay calm in the face of conflict. The police were able to figure things out and he will be getting in trouble with the law. Just as their are punishments here for breaking laws, there are laws as well in our Father in Heavens kingdom. This is why it is so crucial to be obedient and stay on the straight and narrow. We need to be people that can keep promises and learn and grow from our experiences. This is why I loved what president Nelson talked about. These simple things we can do, grow our faith and make sure we can teach our kids to keep these promises with our Father in Heaven even when conflict or adversity arises. I can tell you that we are extremely blessed to have a prophet here on this earth as well as a Father in Heaven that loves and cares for us. He watches over us and because of his son Jesus Christ all can return and live with him one day as we strive to become better and repent. Remember repentance is positive and means to change and become better. This is what I want all of you to do. I do this on a daily basis and I can see how much a difference it has made in my life and I am so blessed. I am able to have a fresh start daily. I know I make alot of mistakes but through my Savior Jesus Christ I