More Assorted Q&A

What is the best way to avoid temptation?

The best way to avoid temptation is be firmly set in your priorities. If having the Spirit as your constant companion (or being temple worthy, or preparing for a mission or whatever it is) is your top priority, then a lot of things fall away. You'll see the temptations for what they are: a distraction, a counterfeit, and ultimately not worth it. For example, if you know that you want to have the Spirit as your constant companion, it wouldn't be appealing to you to go to parties with degrading music and dancing. It won't be a temptation if you know what you really want.

And I can't emphasize enough (nor can the General Authorities) the importance of daily scripture study and prayer. It's simple, but it helps a lot. It really helps to maintain and remember your eternal priorities. Speaking of study, I recommend Moses 1. The way Moses was able to resist the Devil himself was by simply recognizing that he has no glory and that God has infinite glory and so much more to offer than Satan.

Why are guitar strings so close together?

Guitar strings are close together, but it could be worse. Have you ever tried playing a violin? Now those strings are close together. It's like violins are meant for tiny hands... Anywho, guitar strings are close together so you can play chords easily (can't do that so well on a bass), and so you can play faster and play really fast guitar solos (also really impossible on a bass unless you're Geddy Lee or John Myung or someone like that). Speaking of which, I've decided that I definitely need to practice electric guitar more once I get back. So don't adopt my guitar. :)

 

What can new missionaries do to make things easier for their trainer?
 - Call your trainer out when she's not doing her best/there's something to improve. Of course, be nice about it, but that's what companions are for, among many other things. She may be senior companion, but you two are equals with equal responsibility. 

- And volunteer to make phone calls to investigators/members from day one. It really helps her since there's so many people to call and so little time. It will also help you get acclimated to the work.

  - Never hesitate to open your mouth. Any urge to do/say a good thing and is a prompting from the Spirit, even if it doesn't necessarily make sense to you or your companion. You may not be a pro at teaching lessons yet, but your companion will be able to roll with whatever you say/testify.

 - Realize that you have just as much of a right to revelation for your investigators as your companion. You know more than you realize.    

Any personal items that you're really glad you brought to Texas? Any suggestions?
 - I LOVE my raincoat. I can't find the specific name/model of my jacket. I just know it's North Face. It's perfectly waterproof and if it works for Texas downpours, it will work for anything.
 - I love my bike. It's really worth it to find a bike that's skirt friendly. 

 - I'm glad I got expensive shoes. One pair of shoes was $100 as opposed to my other 2 pairs that were about $60. But the pricier shoes are very comfy and showing no signs of wear/damage. The $60 shoes' soles are wearing thin. So don't be hesitant to spend on shoes. Your feet will thank you and you won't have to buy too many replacements.

 

What random things have changed about you?

1. I can't stand dogs. When we were knocking on someone's door out in the middle of nowhere, we encountered a SCREAMING chihuahua. It nearly burst my eardrums and gave me a headache and I was very close to kicking it 30 feet (I would have if I didn't fear offending the rat's owner). One side effect of the mission: I can't stand dogs (but Zoey is ok), especially the little ones. I've come to the conclusion that in order to be a true Texan, you need to have at least 2 dogs...

 

2. I'm eating a lot healthier. I now really like cottage cheese, greek yogurt, and spinach and I eat more fruits and vegetables than ever. Also better portion control.

 

3. I laugh in frustrating situations.

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