Tears of Thanksgiving/ Shark Bait and Hable's Miracle/ Become As A Child/ I Love My Mission

Dearest Family and Friends! How wonderful it is again, to take the opportunity to share of my experiences, testimony, and wonderful times I am having here in this portion of the Lord's Vineyard!!

The Work excites me and I am Loving my mission. I have had struggles, trials, weaknesses be made known, and had to really depend upon a Loving Father in Heaven and His Son Jesus Christ; whom provides an Atonement to be better and forever changed and happy. May you never forget the unconditional love in which They both have for us all. Of course, the blessings that wait in-store for us are not unconditional. But are conditional. I Know when we keep the commandments and statures of this True Church we will find more joy (joy that lasts forever), have more confidence, and be more free of our weakness, pains, guilt, and sufferings.

 I Know this Church is true with all of my Heart and soul. I certainly am not perfect. But I know the message and knowledge we posses of this true church is perfect. Never Give Up my Dear friends and Family Keep Going. May you find continual happiness and joy through even the hard times. 

Most recently a trial I had for quite a long time made itself manifest and I would like to share. I would like it to be first known, that this is not a complaint. This trial, to me, shows how deeply Our Father in Heaven sees even our deepest sorrows and seeks to teach, love, and mold us into stronger, more cable, and happier people. This is the point of every trial. I heard once that trials should be viewed as blessings in disguise. If we overcome a trial with the help of The Lord then we will become stronger and be led closer to the safe and open arms waiting to embrace us at the end of this epic quest for Salvation. 

With that said let me explain. For many of you, you are aware that I had been a victim of the ugly Dengue Fever. Mosquitos are the worst.. You get so sick you do wonder if you might die. I don't think it is actually life threatening, but try telling this statement to one who is enduring the illness and they might uppercut you in the jaw... That on its own was quite the struggle. It was after this, which caused some great struggle.

 One of the symptoms of Dengue Fever is Liver Enlargement/and or (this is all to the best of my knowledge) Liver Damage. What does the Liver do you might ask? Here is some information from my Mother: The Liver's main job is to filter the blood coming from the digestive tract, before passing it to the rest of the body. The liver also detoxifies chemicals and metabolizes drugs. As it does so, the liver secretes bile that ends up back in the intestines." Look at this, you are even learning more about the human body through this email! :D From this long explanation we can conclude the liver is pretty important. Because my Liver was compromised what occurred was Third-Spacing. Of course I had no idea.      

Third-Spacing occurs when too much fluid moves from the intravascular space (or blood vessels) into the interstitial or "third" space-the nonfictional area between cells. This can cause potentially serious problems such as edema, reduced cardiac output, and hypertension." 

 After my struggles with finally getting over Dengue Fever I soon began to have some other problems. It first started with my face. You may have noticed.. my face started getting bigger. Many islanders (in their good and joke filled sense of humor) started poking fun at me and telling me I was getting fat. Of course, no one likes to hear or feel this. And to be honest, it hurt my feelings and made me sensitive. The devil seeing a weak link in the armor came and told me the same things. To be honest, I started to feel worse about my self image. I started getting sad and feeling doubts in a lot of different ways What a jerk... The adversary is not a very positive group of individuals let me tell ya... 

My face then started to hurt a lot and often had a burning sensation. My feet and ankles started swelling up/doing the same thing. Then my neck started swelling up too. It became painful to walk and do what I needed to do. I had what we call, Edema. If any of you that thought I was putting on some pounds with Laplap.. Ha! You were wrong! And I am so glad you were! 

I often wondered... What's wrong with me? What's wrong with my body? Why am I getting fat, swelling up, and in so much pain? This is not fair. I tried to find more ways to be positive and found comfort by listening to the council of my Father before I left. Quote: Remember Alekken. Wear out your knees son. Then roll up your sleeves and go to work. There are angels on your right and on your left." I read from The Book of Mormon. I prayed as much as I could. I didn't give up. It was feeling like I was only slightly keeping my head afloat of the trials I felt were getting the better of me. I kept trying, although it was so hard to beat the negative thoughts. I testify angels really did help keep me up, when my ankles just couldn’t keep going. Then The Lord, just like Peter, lifted me from the depths of this sea of Negativity and pain. 

Months later I am healed. It was only last week that my dear Mother broke the news to me about the Edema. It made so much sense! I then had a discussion with the mission Nurse. She was grateful I had done all she had asked me to do because apparently Edema is fairly serious. Because of all the swelling it is hard for the heart to pump to those places and it can cause some really serious medical/heart problems. She mentioned I could have left my mission early or been reassigned somewhere else. This hit me like a ton of bricks. 

I remember after all my Mother told me and the nurse I came home and fell on my knees. Tears streaming down my face the only thing I could muster was, "Thank you. Thank you for helping me stay." I felt an overwhelming amount of love and peace swell my heart. The words of The Child's Prayer came to mind. "Heavenly Father are you really there? And do you hear and answer every child's prayer? Some say that heaven is far away but I feel it close around me as I pray. Heavenly Father, I remember now something that Jesus told disciples long ago. Suffer the children to come unto me. Father in prayer I am coming now to thee. 

Oh how I love my Island home. I love my mission. To leave these beautiful people early would have broken my heart. The Lord healed me! 

My thoughts can only be summarized by the scriptures Alma 36: 27 and Alma 26: 35-37. 

Alma 36: 

27 And I have healed supported under trials and troubles of every kind, yea, and in all manner of afflictions; yea, God has delivered me from prison, and from bonds, and from death; yea, and I do put my trust in him, and he will still deliver me

Alma 26:

 35 Now have we not reason to rejoice? Yea, I say unto you, there never were men that had so great reason to rejoice as we, since the world began; yea, and my joy is carried away, even unto boasting in my God; for he has all power, all wisdom, and all understanding; he comprehended all things, and he is a merciful Being, even unto salvation, to those who will repent and believe on his name.

36 Now if this is boasting, even so will I boast; for this is my life and my light, my joy and my salvation, and my redemption from everlasting wo. Yea, blessed is the name of my God, who has been mindful of this people, who are a branch of the tree of Israel, and has been lost from its body in a strange land; yea, I say, blessed be the name of my God, who has been mindful of us, wanderers in a strange land.

37 Now my brethren, we see that God is mindful of every people, whatsoever land they may be in; yea, he numbereth his people, and his bowels of mercy are over all the earth. Now this is my joy, and my great thanksgiving; yea, and I will give thanks unto my God forever. Amen.

Through the righteous prayers, patience attitude from my parents, and through their faith I was healed. Through my own Faith and diligence to stay close to the powers of Heaven, even when it was hard I was healed! I am so so blessed and grateful this trial has taught me better how to rely on a Father in Heaven whom will never turn His back on us. Who will forever teach and love us. I testify of His reality and Love. This is a miracle. And they are around us everyday. Because God is a God of Miracles. 

 I am so grateful again, for my two parents whom freely gave me up to The Lord that I might learn. Mom and Dad. I Love You. Thank you. You will be blessed  Sorry! Long email! Probably the longest I have written. Ever!  But The Lord has us go through hard times and difficulties that we may stand as a witness for him. I would not be doing this, I feel, unless I shared my story (Mosiah 24:14)

14 And I will also ease the burdens which are put upon your shoulders, that even you cannot feel them upon your backs, even while you are in bondage; and this will I do that ye may stand as witnesses for me hereafter, and that ye may know of a surety that I, the Lord God, do visit my people in their afflictions

We had a miracle this week! We invited this Mamma along with several pikinini to come to church.... They all came... Except for the Mamma. All the Pikinini's parents let them come! Most of them are over the age of nine and could be great candidates for families we could teach and help towards baptism. Not to mention we have a small girl of a part member family who looks like she  will be baptized on August 11th! So many blessings raining down from Heaven. We are excited!! We even attended primary with them and helped them stay somewhat quiet and attentive during church. It must have been quite the funny sight to see  Elder Hable and I acting like two white moms to all of those wonderful adorable black pikininis of ours. Parenting is hard. Credit again to all of you parents whom battle kids all the time to help them come to church you will be blessed and they will thank you one day. 

To close, we sang I am A Child of God with our new friends at church. And I couldn't help get emotional as I saw the smiles appear on their face. Tears fell from eyes as The spirit was so strong and I get emotional when I feel the spirit. I can never deny my testimony. Our God Lives. He is a Loving Father in Heaven. We are His children. He does hear even the most quiet prayer spoken from the deepest and saddest parts of our broken heart. He prepared the way through His Perfectly Obedient and Loving Son who knows what is hurting that broken heart and will gather us like a hen with her Chicks. The Father then sends the Holy Ghost to allow us to feel only a portion of this love (which WILL heal us through the Atonement of Christ) which we can't even comprehend. 

 He hears our prayers during the happy times too. And is ever thankful when we  thank and love Him by keeping His Commandments. Glory be To the Father! I will stand as a witness for Him even with my final breath in this life and for eternity. 

My Love Goes Out to All of You. Thank you for listening to my story. I know it is true. I lived through it and can never deny what God The Father Has done for me. I'll keep wearing put those knees in your behalf and going to work the best I can... Until we meet face-to-face again in no time:) Love you all. 

Love,

Elder LaMont/ The Comeback Kid/ Shark Bait/ Whitest Elder and Child of God in Vanuatu/ Your Alekken Ty 

All Our Kids! They grow up so fast!;) 

Missing World Cup!! 

We had MLC Missionary Leadership Training and we got a good laugh of taking a selfie with all of The Sister Training Leaders to make fun of all the photos they were taking together. The Leadership in this mission is awesome! Nothing can stop the great and everlasting work of Our God! Go Team Heaven!!!

Bon Voyage Leavers/New Arrivers/ Shark Bait Almost Becomes Dog Bait

Hello my wonderful family and friends! Is time going by super fast for you too?? It seems like I was making an update just yesterday. Wow! Time flies when you are having fun and working hard. Time seemed a lot slower when Keaton (#Captain Moroni) was on his mission in Kansas. It's a lot easier to be on this end of things. Once again, I appreciate and love all those who have sacrificed so that I may be here. And for those who send, emails, prayers, and even letters of support. I pray for you too. A million times, thank you. 

I am happy report that I am alive, :)happy, healthy, and just a reminder... France are CHAMPIONS of the world!! I just want to point out.. I called it! This missionary work sure is hard stuff but I am loving it. No place I would rather be than Vanuatu right now:)! Perhaps you should all just get a plane ticket here in a year's time... I know I will shed many tears to leave this beautiful land. Especially the beautiful people of the isles of the seas. God truly does love his people of the islands! I feel it in my heart and soul! 

This was a calmer week which I loved! The last few weeks we have been flying everywhere (I am definitely not complaining. I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to travel with my Mission Président) and it was nice to take a rest. The craziness of Assistant work made it so we were in the office most of the week.

 Once again, no complaints. I am here to do The Lord's Will. He chose me for this assignment as Assistant and I am happy to fullfil it to the best of my abilities. Being an Assistant has taught me so many things. The first being; We are equals in the sight of Our Father in Heaven. An Assistant to the Mission President is no more important than a Junior Companion. It cleatly states this in the Missionary Handbook. We all have the same calling to Invite all to Come Unto Christ. Leadership is all about Love. Jeaus Christ the only begotten of The Father, never boasted saying he was better than everyone else because, he is the only Begotten of the Father. He used it in fact, to set a perfect example, love, serve, suffer to take our pains, die for us, and then to conquer death and rise again so that we all can. When we are called as a Leader for a season we should do what the Savior did. That is give service and love. The Savior descended below all things that He might lift His people up. A Christ Like Leader seeks to listen, learn from those he leads, love, serve, and descend to lift those he serves. Thus Christ showed a true leader is all about love and service. I am so grateful for all The Lord has been teaching me out here! I wouldn't give up my mission for anything else in the world. If you are debating whether to go... Just go!!! It is hard but certainly the best experience of my life thus far. 

This week we had an opportunity to meet the new arriving missionaries and say goodbye to the old ones. The old ones seemed very excited for home. And the new ones had a great fire in their eye excited for the greatness coming. It was a great opportunity for me to reflect on my service especially as I am approaching my year mark.. I use to honestly envy those going home. Now, I felt sorry for them. There are only a few things, which give me excitement for home. What can I say? I LOVE my mission so much. How grateful I am for what the Lord has blessed me with. I love working. Getting out of the house and being with the people of Vanuatu is my favorite thing. I love picking flowers and giving them to little girls reminding that they are, "Olgeta, Princess Blong Papa God" and then playing soccer with a paper ball with the boys. I love the people here. They are and always will be in my heart. 

Story Time!! 

I had an experience this week where Elder Hable and I went a little exploring near our house. There is this one hill above our home. It is a view where we could look out into the night sky with the Vila lights in the distance lighting, up the dark sky with the ocean. It is quite the view! 

I managed to get he truck up the hill so we could enjoy it! Let me tell ya Dad... I see why you like trucks so much! They are legit! Would love to get one one day. Plus I now am pretty decent at driving stick shift. Anyway, we decided to attempt the hill climb and made it to the top. We had only planned to come up there when/if times were stressful and this week called for it. We enjoyed taking a breather and making the necessary calls to arrange Zone Conferences and tons of other things. We then realized (wanting to go home) that our diecention down the hill would be scary. 

We drew lots about who would get out and make the back up while the other had the scary job of driving. I of course, lost so I drove. As I was backing up the truck Elder Hable quickly got in the truck again and said some angry looking dogs were lurking about and barking at him. They were ontop of the hill we were below but looked like they could get down and have a nibble on us. Side note. Earlier that day a dog went at me while going to a recent convert of ours (Henri) Jumped from underneath a table going for my ankles and I managed to avoid what looked like a probable bite by smacking it with my backpack and throwing rocks. So basically, I was feed up with mean dogs for the day. 

I told Elder Hable that I would give the backup for our Truck but was definitely taking a stick to.deffend myself. I got out and the dogs were closer. I yelled at them attempting to scare them off. If you know of my childhood fear of Werewolfs you know this was a really unpleasant experience for me. Dang it Harry Potter.... My stick ready I noticed something else... A small red light in the distance that made it's self-known as a white man smoking. 

The man quickly informed me that he was upset for the way I had treated his evil monsters... I mean dogs... And invited me to leave with the most colorful vocabulary, discription, and threats one can imagine. Typical Australian vocabulary to say the least. Not even on his property I was a bit  proplexied. His words were quite mean and as we made our escape down the hill I was pretty mad at what he said but was gratefull I had managed to keep my mouth shut.  I just couldn't wrap my head around why he would treat someone like that. I was upset most of the night. Suddenly, I realized I had been making a mistake and needed to forgive this man. In my heart I was reminded of the scripture D&C 64:10, which states, "I the Lord, will forgive whom I will forgive, but of you it is required to forgive all men." How many times has the Savior forgiven me? I realized I couldn't judge this man and needed to find love for him. I had a cool experience as I asked for help to love this man I will most likely never seen again. I did feel a portion of love for him and forgave what he had said against me. What a lesson The Lord taught me about forgiveness and repentance. The weight fell off my shoulders as well as the bad feelings vanishing. Sorry the story went so long! Its a good one though and I had more time to email this week! :) 

I read a talk this week from General Conference labeled, "Until Seventy Times Seven" by Elder Lynn G. Robbins. It states in one part, "Repentance is God's ever-accessible gift that allows and enables us to go from failure to failure without any loss of enthusiasm. Repentance isn't His backup plan in the event we might fail. Repentance is His plan, knowing that we will. This is the gospel of repentance, and as President Nelson has observed, it will be a life time curriculum." 

So, if from time to time you struggle with the fact that you aren't perfect or don't seem to measure up remember... We are NOT supposed to go through this life alone. We have a Savior who walked such a lonely path so we don't have to. If you struggle like me, with forgiving grumpy Australians who obviously just want you to be dog Kakai (food in Bislama) then that's okay. You can always ask for forgiveness knowing that we are supposed to fail, get back up through the Savior, and overcome our weaknesses. It's a Life Time Curriculum even for a prophet of God. Isn't this a beautiful Gospel?! 

Please just never forget this Gospel is true. Our Father in Heaven lives and loves us. He has perfect Patience for you and and will provide for us to be better through His only begotten son, Jesus Christ, through our Faith and desire to repent/keep the commandments.  

I Love You All! How was your week? Did you almost get eaten too? Let me know! Would love to hear from you! 

Much Love, 

Elder LaMont/Alekken Ty/ Shark Bait/ Werewolf Slayer/ Vanuatu White Boy/ Island Boy/ Your Biggest Fan 

So... Someone did not entirely drain the Baptismal Fount. Thought this might make you smile:) You gotta do what you gotta do. I trust Elder Hable... He didn't let go of my legs but we couldn't stop laughing. 

I LOVE children. SO MUCH!!! Especially the beautiful pikininis of Vanuatu. 

Cool picture of Malekula plus me! Rocking out with thr Shark tie! ;) SHARK BAIT OHHH AHHH HA!

World Cup Champions!!

World Cup Champions!! Get Excited!! Love you All! Allez Les Bleus !! 

Love,

Elder LaMont/ Alekken

Shark Bait Makes It to Malekula and Tanna/ Hard Weeks Make You Stronger/ What Doesn't Kill You Makes You Stronger... Except for Bears.. Bears will Kill You ;)

Dearest Family and Friends!!! Hey, you lovely people! Did you know that you all are just about my favorite people on planet Earth?! I am grateful for each and everyone of you and pray the Lord's blessings to continually flow to you. 

I am sorry to inform you that this email will more than likely be the only one I get out to you. It will be also kept somewhat short. It's been insanely busy. And I won't lie. I am pretty exhausted! Things look like they might finally slow down next week. So, I will have more time to get personal emails out to you. Excited for it! Sorry, if I haven't gotten to you in a bit. Next week!! Crossed fingers! 

Well, this week had been fantastic. I won't lie by saying it was easy. I had a hard time this week because I ended up with the stomach flu/what maybe looks like Food Poisoning? Not sure. All I know is it involved a lot of lost lunches. More on that later, but I had some great help. Dad has always told me to wear out my knees. And I had to do that a few times throughout this week. It is  amazing what a difference is made after we pour our hearts in prayer. 

I promise through our Faith in Our Savior Jesus Christ  we can always find comfort. Our Father Loves us. He Lives! I testify the words of our prophet Russel M. Nelson, "Something powerful happens when a child of God seeks to know more about Him and His Beloved Son." Through some hard times this week I decided to really turn to prayer and to words of living Prophets and Disciples. I was reminded of one of my favorite talks in General Conference labeled, "Am I a Child of God?" I wanted to share quick thoughts of things I felt and learned.  

Elder Brian K. Taylor stated, "Learning of and following the Savior helps us come to know the Father." How amazing this truth is! Elder Hable said something pretty cool the other day. He reminded me in the scriptures it says that Christ does not do anything that he did not first see The Father do. Pretty neat comment! 

Another quote, "I love the God of my Fathers, the Lord God Almighty, who weeps with us in our sorrows, patiently chastens our unrighteousness, and rejoices when we seek to give away all our sins to know him. I worship Him, who is ever a father of the fatherless and a companion to the companionless. Gratefully, I testify that I have come to know God, my Father, and bear witness of the perfections, attributes, and excellency of His Character." 

I testify and am happy to proudly and bodily testify that the Father of our Souls does live. He loves us. He loves His perfect son who so perfectly provided an Atonement in which we can receive mercy and more of His Love. We have so much. Yes, I know the trials are hard. But I really learned this week more about how Our Perfect Father truly weeps when he sees our sorrows. He wants us to be happy! So choose to be happy by following His commandments. You and I will not be perfect. But it is so great how we can just leave all our weaknesses at our Savior's feet. He will lighten our loads. 

To my parents I especially want you to know you are doing great. I know it has not always been easy to raise us kids. I want you to know though because of your sacrifice I have gained a further testimony of this gospel. I have been able to (through The Lord) help many people here in Vanuatu. It is all credit to YOU. To all parents everywhere... You are awesome. You are doing better than you think and are Savior's on Mount Zion. May the Lord continue to bless you. I challenge you all to read the Book of Mormon more which testifies of Christ so simply that a child could understand. As you read it more you will come to know The Father and The Son Better. 

This week we went to the islands of Malekula and Tanna to meet the missionaries with President and work with the Priesthood. If I had not gone on a rant before I would have more time to talk about it. Basic summary. The people were so kind welcoming us with open arms and flower necklaces. I got sick in Tanna and was throwing up most the time. I was able to recover but we missed out on Solomon Island trip. The Malekula trip was amazing. These people in some cases literally have nothing. Yet they are so happy. They have such a desire to serve and build the church of Our God. I am amazed and truly humbled. I also was able to count my blessings as I provided President with Bislama translation. A language I thought I never thought I would be able to communicate in ... ever.. is one I have now had the ability to help my Mission President with. The Lord is good. And all things are possible through Him. Trust in God my dear friends and family.. He will provide.

Before I close out I want to say thank you. Thank you for everything. This week really was hard. When I was having a hard time two really great things happened. I got a wonderful email from my little sister Vivie and two really amazing letters:) Month made! One of the letters of support really gave a great quote I too wanted to share. It states (By Robert D. Hales) "Jesus Christ did come. He did live. And He will Come Again." No matter if you are going through something rough just don't forget... The Savior will come again! Have no worries!

All my love to you Dearest Family and Friends. Keep trusting in Our Father and in His Perfect Son. The Sun will rise tomorrow. Keep Pressing Forward. 

Love,

Elder LaMont/Shark Bait/That white loving boy from Logan/ Whitest Dude in Vanuatu/ Island Boy/ The Come back Kid

Busy Times For Shark Bait/ Prayers Heard/ Disciples 4 Ever/ Shark Bait Attempts French

 Dearest Family And Friends, How Great it is to once again take this opportunity to email you. Before I go further, I must explain that times have never been busier. Helping Président Duquette is definitely what the Lord needs of both Elder Hable and I right now, but it is time consuming and honestly exhausting. We are happy to do it but I won't lie to you, it's kind of hard! Like my Dad taught me though, I can do hard things! :) This transition Assistant stuff has built up a little stress and has made me a little nervous. President Granger taught me how to deal with stress. Boy do I love The Grangers. They sure are missed! A Missionary, who is definitely one of my role models, gave me some council. I quote, " Busy is good! Nerves are good, they mean something great is about to happen! The Lord does see more than we do." Aren't I so blessed? So many are helping me! 

This transition stuff has made it hard to email this week. And will make next week hard too. I will do my best to get this one out to you, but I am more than certain this is all I will have time for. So, if you don't get an email from me, I want you to know, I still love you all. I am very busy! Happy to be busy, but it does take its tole. You know you are working hard and enjoying life when you're exhausted! I am sure after next week I will be able to get out more emails. Don't forget I love you! 

How do I even begin to explain all the incredible things, which have occurred through this extremely important, busy, yet amazing week? As my Mom always says, "Hold on to your socks!" Here we go! 

Tuesday was Président's First, "Meet The Missionaries Experience" in the island of Efate. Elder Hable and I made sure everything went as perfect as we could. Boy, just that one was hard work! We managed to make things run smooth and be able to listen to what Président Duquette shared. The spirit in that chapel was unreal. It taught me a great deal, and testified to my soul again the truthfulness of this Gospel that we teach. As well as the fact that Président Duquette is who The Lord has called. Because he is from Canada I thought it was hilarious he shared a story which involved a moose. He said while in Canada he saw a sign about a railroad which made the following statement something like this: "It's Not the Railroads Fault if Attacking Mosse slows down the trains." Basically, Most think they are all that in a bag of chips and charge trains. Known for there large size but I am not sure how large there brain really is. Président Duquette related this to our own lives. Do we not listen to our companions/warnings of the spirit (for those of you who are not serving a mission... Holy Ghost/Tabu Spirit counts as your companion) and charge for the train. We ahould be humble and have a soft heart as President Granger always taught me! 

Wednesday we flew to New Caledonia with the Duquettes and the Area 70 Elder Jorgensen who reminds me a lot of Uncle Brian. I enjoyed making jokes with him and talking about missionary experiences. I now know why past preisthood leaders always talk about their missions. They are pretty cool:) Anyway, the entire "Meet The Missionaries" in New Caledonia was in French. I didn't understand mostly everything. For those that know me well you know I am a stubborn dude... I mean Elder. Just because I didn't know how to do most things did not stop me from singing hymns in French, taking notes, and attempting to participate. During all of "The Meet The Missionaries" the Duquettes would have everyone stand up and introduce themselves, explain what our native language is, and when we were baptized. Everyone of course was explaining this in French and then it came to my turn. It explains their face when I stood up and managed to get out (in my broken French), "Je m'appelle Elder LaMont. Je parle anglais. Je me suis fait baptisé à láge de huit ons." Thank goodness Elder Hable helps me a lot! Everyone started clapping and cheering me on for probably the worst French spoken that day. Then Sister Duquette gave me a "bones." After the traning Sister Duquette came up to me and said she was impressed of my efforts to participate and learn French. It sure meant a lot to me. I do have a pretty legit study plan in morning and a cool companion who answers many many questions. Poor kid! Not sure I will ever speak French fluently (I would guess not) but I have come a long way. Don't give up if something is hard. You can do hard things!! :) I learned that in dance and from my Dad. 

MIRACLES do happen!!! We saw Sam! My prayers are answered! If you prayed for Sam too thank you. Thought you should know your prayers were answered as well! Thank you for any prayers my way. I feel their power and support. Love you all!  About the only day we were not in a plane or in the Office was Sunday. We were just walking around our area exhausted and then Sam literally ran out of nowhere and said he felt super sorry he couldn't see us for about two weeks now. He just said he had been really busy. Then with a smile he excitedly set another appointment with us. Then he headed towards the Kava Bar...Slap in the face... We have a lot of hard work to do but we are making progress and The Lord answered our prayers. The Lord truly does hear your prayers. I testify with every part of my might, mind, and soul this is true. We have been able to work with some return missionaries on the only day we had to work in area. It was amazing! Always include members in missionary work. It saddens me when I think of how much I could have done back at home. Don't be afraid to share the Gospel! Do all you can my dear family and friends. 

Dad!!! Thank you for updates!! You are so cool! Love all of my family! So great to hear of your success. Tausha is expecting a baby??? What?? Congratulations!! On P-Day we stopped at one of our favorite restaurants and they were playing Belgium vs. Brazil....to say the least we ate slow... Literally watched De Brunye score (I jumped up...hehe I am a fan) To justify, we found a man from Uganda we contacted the other day with his cute little boy. He is reading the Book of Mormon we gave him and we will give him as a referral to the sisters because he is in their area. In my opinion, I felt it was The Lord slightly saying, "Yeah it was okay you ate slow to watch some soccer." LOL! :) 

Hey! One more time know I love you all. I appreciate all you are doing for the Lord and me. Keep being awesome People!!! 

Signing out! 

Love,

Elder LaMont/Shark Bait/ Belgium and France's Biggest Fan/ The White Soccer Loving Boy From Logan/ Your Alekken Ty 

P.S. Dad who you got in Final? Wanting France or Belgium? It is my two favorite s from beginning. Can't decide who to cheer for. Because everyone likes France feing more like Belgium!!! Go Red Devils! If France beat them I will be fine too! Life is good! 

Cool Necklace Président Duquette received

French Notes 

I named the Kitten Mbappe! :) I don't like Cats but I do like kittens

Assistant Life= Hard 

Got to Drive this bad boy because Duquettes did not know way to Airport 

Matching ties STLs made for us and Président Duquette they like to match as you can tell..

A Fire In His Eyes/ I Stand All Amazed/Ammon

Dearest Family and Friends!! Yet another exciting week in Paradise we can recap together! 

I am truly blessed. I may not have the strongest testimony in the world but it is something I have personally gained! I gained it through the Love of The Holy Ghost which comes from A Loving Father in Heaven who helps us through His Son's Perfect Atonement. What an amazing truth. I know They Live without a shadow of a doubt. I would die for this great knowledge! For it is true! 

"I Stand All Amazed at The Love Jesus Offers Me. Confused at The grace that so fully he profers me. I tremble to know that for me he was crucified. That for me a sinner he bled and died. Oh, it is wonderful that he should care for me enough to die for me. Oh it is wonderful, wonderful to me!"  Beautiful words of a beloved hymn. I testify Jesus did in fact die for us. He then conquered death through His Resurrection and extends his mercy to us always. He Lives! I truly, Stand All Amazed. 

God does hear our Prayers. Press Forward. You can do all things through Him! I Love You All More than you know. Keep being awesome. Thank you so much for your wonderful updates and emails, which help me so much! 

Hey! Don't forget I love you all! :) I am your biggest fan!

A miracle I would like to share!! A tender mercy from A Loving Father In Heaven. We have found an investigator named Sam. Through a feeling that my companion had while walking on the road. He looked as if he would never listen to us. The smell of weed and the large Kyle Beckerman Dreds made it a little strange when Elder Hable said he felt like we should talk to him. We did it! And it has been a miracle. We meet with him for a little bit and left him with a Restoration Pamphlet. When we returned he did something I had never ever seen in Vanuatu before. He read the pamphlet, and then wrote answers to questions that test your understanding at the end. Elder Hable exchanged glances of amazement and absolute awe. We had the most powerful lesson. It was lead by his questions, he shared his thoughts, and the spirit filled our hearts. I wish you all could have been there. The Lord has prepared many to hear Our Word. It is up to us to go find them. 

Sam is currently been avoiding us after this amazing experience. It hurts my heart. I wish he would remember what we learned together. I hate the evil substances, which lure him away from the out stretched arms of His Savior. Who is all of ours personal Savior, even Jesus Christ! I feel as if there are many arms of the adversary and temptation, which try and grab him. However, Elder Hable and I won't give up on him. Yes, there are many evil arms or influences, which wish to grab him. But like the great missionary Ammon, Elder Hable and I will cut the arms off of our enemies for the protection of our brothers. I won't give up on Sam. I ask, if you have a small moment pray for him. I love him. I have felt just a small portion of The love God The Father has for him. He is our brother. Oh, how I wish he would have another lesson with us. 

My strugges with Sam remind me of some scriptures. The first being: Alma 26: 30 "And we have suffered all manner of afflictions, and all this, that perhaps we might be the means of saving some soul; and we supposed that our joy would be full if perhaps we could be the means of saving some." Our struggles are sometimes hard as members of the church, especially when we try and share the Gospel. Don't give up! We can do this. Share the Gospel with all you can. You have more power and influence than you know. Share it! Get passionate! 

I know now what Alma meant in Chapter 29 of Alma stating,  "O that I were an angel, and could have the wish of mine heart, that I might go forth and speak with the trump of God, with a voice to shake the earth, and cry repentance unto every people!

 Yea, I would declare unto every soul, as with the voice of thunder, repentance and the plan of redemption, that they should repent and come unto our God, that there might not be more sorrow upon all the face of the earth.

 But behold, I am a man, and do sin in my wish; for I ought to be content with the things which the Lord hath allotted unto me

My dear friends and family. Do all you can to share this great Gospel. It is true! 

This is the last week we get with President and Sister Granger. My heart is full of gratitude for The Lord for what time I had with the Grangers. They are amazing. I don't know if they will ever know just how much I Love Them. They truly taught me the importance of 3 Nephi 18: 31-32. The importance of the individual. They personally brought me closer to The Master. I had the opportunity to do one last special assignment for President Granger with Elder Hable. We drove to Paonangisu and checked on some Missionary Homes. We took a few moments to view the amazing scenery around us. It gave me an opportunity to use my manual driving ability which I learned here in the field! It is incredible all I am learning. Paoanangisu is about an hour drive on the other side of the island of Efate! 

I had the opportunity to meet Président Duquette and Sister Duquette. They are FANTASTIC! I love them already! They have expressed that they love The Lord and excited to do all they can to serve in this great calling of Mission President and wife. There is a fire in Président Duquette's eyes. He is ready and I am willing to help him with anything as his Assistant and a missionary entrusted in his care by The Lord. He reminds me of Dad... Partially because he is bald and he gave me a couple of winks... Which if you know my wonderful Father is some of my favorite attributes about him. One of the first things Président Duquette said to me went something like this, "Elder LaMont!! How are you?! Wow! You two are sharp looking Elders. Are you the one who loves jerseys?" So... I guess he is aware of my love of Soccer already.... And my love for soccer jerseys.... I am going to ask him if he is an Impact Fan, Dad because he is from Montréal, Canada ! 

I express my Love and gratitude again. Thank you for all you do. 

Love,

Elder LaMont, Your Alekken Ty, Shark Bait, The white loving Soccer boy From Smithfield UTAH, Island Boy  

Go France and Belgium!!! 

Going To Miss President Granger and Sister Granger!!

Office Work is busy! But that doesn't mean we don't have fun! 

Paonangisu Assignment view!! 

Yours truly giving a Training in Efate! I thought it was a cool picture! 

Saying Goodbye To My Australian Parents

I shed quite a few tears to watch my amazing dear friends The Grangers go back home. The Lord has called them back to Australia. They will forever be in my hearts. They gave me a Aboriginal Boomerang to remember them by. I LOVE THEM!! 

I am ready however to fully support Président Duquette. My Loyalty is first and always to The Lord then to the Mission President (which is Président Duquette) then to my companion Elder Hable. 

I am so thankful that The Lord gave me time with the Grangers ❤❤❤So excited to work with the Duquettes and countinually and always The Master Jesus Christ. 

Love you All:)!!! 

To the Grangers: You have changed my life FOREVER. I will never forget what we did together. I will FOREVER love you... my Aussie Parents! Aussie Aussie Aussie!! Oi oi oi!!! ❤🇦🇺❤We are.... VPVM!! 

Elder LaMont (Alekken)