Fountain of Miracles/ If You Give A Pikinini Candy../ Shark Bait Closes in On a Year in the Islands/ Nutmeging The Adversary/The Nick Rimando to Our Morales and Beckerman

Dearest Family and Friends!! Once again I am so grateful for the time I have to write to you. How great The Lord is to provide modern technology where we can email from all the other side of the world! This blessing of communication has blest my life and soul in more ways than you can imagine. My words cannot even come close to explain the great feelings in my heart for you. Thank you for your support, prayers, and belief in me. May God Bless you for your loving hearts. I have quite the week to share with you! It has been one of my favorite of this transfer and I dare say one of the very best of my entire mission. Hold onto your Socks! Here we go! 

I think we will start by one of the biggest surprises I have ever received while here in the mission. So, before our big Santo Trip we had a baptism for Sophie (Who is 9 years old) planned for this Saturday. Bishop told us he planned to do it Wednesday of this week instead, right before we left and we forget. We got back Tuesday night and had some things Wednesday morning we needed to help Président with. We were then able to get out to the area and headed for Sophie's House still thinking the baptism is on Saturday.

 We had a pray in the truck before going to try and get a lesson with Sophie. I remember I specifically asked in the prayer that we would have help to make sure here baptism would happen and that we would be guided by the spirit. As we lifted our heads from our awesome prayer we saw Sophie and her family coming out of their house dressed very nice! We looked at each other both wondering what was going on. We got out and walked up to them trying to figure out where they were going. Sophie's Mom looked relived to see us and proudly proclaimed, "We are going to Sophie's Baptism!" Elder Hable and I both exchanged concerned glances. We had finished most of the lessons with Sophie, but not every single one. We had not even had an interview yet! Quickly, we formatted a small companionship huddle and made a plan. We called President asking for his advice, and were glad when he agreed with us in our plan that because she is only 9 she had been taught all the lesson she needed to hear before baptism. We had not gone through, "Tak Blong Waes" (Or Word of Wisdom) and President told us to make sure she understands that things like Kava and cigarettes are not for our body but we were good to have the baptism as long as we got an interview. We called our District Leader (who are actually the Travel Elders) and told them about our situation. 

I am happy yo report that everything worked out okay and Sophie got baptized! Out District Leader rushed over to give the interview and it all worked out in the very end. It is honestly no surprise that so many things go wrong when a baptism happens. There is a dark force attempting to suffocate the great light of the Everlasting Flame of the Gospel. No matter how many times the adversary attempted to block this baptism we went right through Him (Haha! Dad. :)We nutmeged the adversary for sure) It was amazing! My heart was touched my Sophie's courage to be baptized even though she is afraid of the water. We can All Do Hard things. Our Father in Heaven will lead the way! 

We had even more miracles this week! Miracles truly are around us wherever we are. God the Father is a God of Miracles and works through our (Moroni 10:7) Faith to make them happen among His children. Everyday I know we can see The Hand of God in Our Life. Do all you can to see it more and to build up your faith so God can work through you. I testify with all my soul He lives. Heaven is a prayer away my Family and Friends. " I Know My (Out) Father Lives and Loves us too. It is the Holy Ghost which whispers this to me and tells me that it is true." Part of my Testimony of This Great and Restored Gospel can be found in 2 Nephi 22:2:

"2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid; for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also has become my salvation."

The Miracle, which Happened. We meet with Emily this week (A woman we contacted before Efate Zone Conference) and taught one of the best lessons I have ever been apart of. Elder Hable and I did not start out our companionship as best friends. In full honesty, it has been super hard. The Devil has challenged us many times (perhaps He knew how good we would become or knew of the Help we needed to give our new Mission President) and it has been hard. I only tell this because we have set aside our differences and frustrations to come to know Our Father in Heaven and do the Work of His Son and ultimately the work of the Father to help all gain Eternal Life. We have become very good friends. And I would consider him my closet friend in the mission. He certainly has helped me decide what Baseball team to follow. Especially in lessons (and I would say in all phases of the work) we have become like Kyle Beckerman and Javier Morales. An unbelievable team and I would say one the Devil's least favorite duos. Morales and Beckerman are very different players but their combined efforts led  RSL to be Champions in the 2009 MLS Cup Season (eventually beating LA Galaxy in the final... a worthy yet evil opponent just like the adversary)  Dad, You may have to translate this out of soccer language for me because you speak this language as well. Basically, we are becoming a really really good team and doing some amazing things through the spirit. 

Anyway, Our lesson was so full of the spirit. In Soccer language the spirit was our Nick Rimando and kept us in the game making us invincible. We taught Emily who is a mother who has 3 kids (They stay with their grandma as she works because he husband left her. Once again the pure love mothers in this situation demonstrate for their kids makes me cry like a baby. It is amazing all the love, which every Mom shows for their children. Special shutout for my own :) Mother who has always given me a special love, which has blessed my life significantly. You are an angel My Dear Mother.) and struggles. We told her about how the Book of Mormon would bless her life and especially the spirit, which would come as she reads from it. Elder Hable and I almost at the same time received a very tiny but yet very powerful spiritual conformation to invite her and her friend to be baptized and they agreed to a date! Truly both Elder Hable are in wonder as we now have 3 people on date for baptism despite our insane schedule of travel. Loaves and Fishes given to us by a Loving Savior. 

A Beautiful Hymn Always comes to my heart these days. "I Believe in Christ" :

I believe in Christ; he is my King!

With all my heart to him I'll sing;

I'll raise my voice in praise and joy,

In grand amens my tongue employ.

I believe in Christ; he is God's Son.

On earth to dwell his soul did come.

He healed the sick; the dead he raised.

Good works were his; his name be praised.

2. I believe in Christ; oh blessed name!

As Mary's Son he came to reign

'Mid mortal men, his earthly kin,

To save them from the woes of sin.

I believe in Christ, who marked the path,

Who did gain all his Father hath,

Who said to men: "Come, follow me,

That ye, my friends, with God may be."

3. I believe in Christ--my Lord, my God!

My feet he plants on gospel sod.

I'll worship him with all my might;

He is the source of truth and light.

I believe in Christ; he ransoms me.

From Satan's grasp he sets me free,

And I shall live with joy and love

In his eternal courts above.

4. I believe in Christ; he stands supreme!

From him I'll gain my fondest dream;

And while I strive through grief and pain,

His voice is heard: "Ye shall obtain."

I believe in Christ; so come what may,

With him I'll stand in that great day

When on this earth he comes again

To rule among the sons of men.

I want to end with a small testimony of The Savior. I know He lives! I know He loves everyone of you. He is mindful of us in our hardest and even happiest times. When no one else seems to get it He gets it perfectly because he already experienced it. I don't know how I will even begin to thank Him when he Comes Again and when I am reunited with Him. Certainly I will bathe his feet in my tears and try and form the words thank you. I know He only Asks that we give a Broken Heart and Contrite spirit in order to obtain perfect cleanliness from hardships, illnesses, and sins to be raised up to meet Our Father in Heaven in the Celestial Kingdom with a Perfect body. I know He lives. He is Our Lord and Savior He is the great Jehovah, the Messiah Foretold by ancient Prophets and I will testify of His Name forever. I know the Book of Mormon is the Word of the Lord and it perfectly testifies of Him. This is only a small portion of the burning testimony I hold in my heart and I know it is true because of The Holy Ghost whispers it to me as I read the scriptures, pray, and go to church. Never Forget How much God love you. How much Our Father in Heaven Love you. This church is true. Leave your doubts and enter into His Marvelous Light! He will always be there. I testify of these things in the Sacred Name of Jesus Christ, The Son of God, Amen! 

I Love You All so much and everyone of You is in my Prayers! Keep Going! You Got This.

Love Forever, 

Elder LaMont, Your Alekken Ty, Shark Bait, Comeback Kid, Kyle Beckerman, The Whitest Elder in All of Vanuatu

I will send pictures in another email. Let me know if it makes it to you. Hope your weeks are great! 

Dad! I love the RSL updates. Thank you so much! Thank you for the uplifting things from your emails and the sports updates. I do still love to hear updates about RSL! If it is not too much trouble I would love to keep getting them! 

If you give A Pikinini Candy.... She might want a hug to go with it! Look How cute this photo is! Love it! This little girl was at church and she always asks me for candy. :) So Sweet! 

Can you believe my Farwell was about a year ago?? Time flies! 

It's The Ol Shark Bait tie... It's my favorite! Got to love pictures:)  

Here is me wearing it on pur flight to Malekula... I only wear it on special days! 

Me in New Caledonia playing Guitar and Dancing we are going back soon! 

We ate with Duquettes because we had to stay late to help with transfers so they gave us aprons to wear.. :) Good day!!!  

Check out these shirts!!!

Sophie's Baptism Yay :)

Nouvelle Calédonie/ Shark Bait's Dance Skillz are Back/ Alors On Danse

Bonjour mes chères famille et Amis !! It has been a week which has gone as fast as a snap of the fingers! I am grateful for the things I have learned, experienced, and felt this week. Missions really are super hard but are worth every moment! I love to work hard and then being able to climb in your bed and then fall asleep with the satisfaction that you weren't perfect but sure tried your best. Then while you fall asleep you can already think of a 100 different ways the Lord has helped you. (Momma don't worry I still make my bed :D) I am loving life and grateful for the time I have to enjoy these two wonderful years. It is true I miss being able to talk to Family and old friends. However, I know we will see one another again. Alma 17:2-3 says,

 "2 Now these sons of Mosiah were with Alma at the time the angel first appeared unto him; therefore Alma did rejoice exceedingly to see his brethren; and what added more to his joy, they were still his brethren in the Lord; yea, and they had waxed strong in the knowledge of the truth; for they were men of a sound understanding and they had searched the scriptures diligently, that they might know the word of God.

            3 But this is not all; they had given themselves to much prayer, and fasting; therefore they had the spirit of prophecy, and the spirit of revelation, and when they taught, they taught with power and authority of God.

And of course, a personal favorite of mine:) Alma 17: 11- 13

11 And the Lord said unto them also: Go forth among the Lamanites, thy brethren, and establish my word; yet ye shall be patient in long-suffering and afflictions, that ye may show forth good examples unto them in me, and I will make an instrument of thee in my hands unto the salvation of many souls.

            12 And it came to pass that the hearts of the sons of Mosiah, and also those who were with them, took courage to go forth unto the Lamanites to declare unto them the word of God.

            13 And it came to pass when they had arrived in the borders of the land of the Lamanites, that they separated themselves and departed one from another, trusting in the Lord that they should meet again at the close of their harvest; for they supposed that great was the work which they had undertaken." 

While we have been in a companionship Elder Hable and I have really tried to record the Hand of God in our lives. A missionary in a Zone Conference told us how they record 5 Miracles every day and then put it on their fridge. We have started doing this idea a few months back and I must say, it has been a literal eye opener for the both of us. I have learned so much about The Love Our Father in Heaven has for us. I have seen His hand present in our lives. Do we even comprehend how much Our Father in Heaven cares about even the smallest of things? Does He care about Math Tests? Your hopes? Dreams? Wishes? ALL Yes!  I dare even say Sport teams! ;) He Does. He lives my friends and Family. I will proclaim this forever as I know it is true with every part of my heart!

 Recently I have been praying for how I can be better. Yes, often times I am hard on myself but I wish I could be 10 times more the man I am for God, for my family, and all of those I love. I find myself often knees constantly asking for forgiveness seeking to rid myself of sin so I can teach more with the spirit. I am thankful for an ever patient and loving Father in Heaven who seeks to Love and bless us. I was blessed to receive an answer. An amazing missionary sent me this quote which really helped me out. It says, "One Does Not Aspire to be a great missionary; rather, he aspires to be a servant." This one hit me hard and about had me in tears as I came to a realization of something. I am good enough! No, not perfect, but I am trying. If I want to be a better missionary for the Lord all I need is to serve and love others and seek to truly be a servant.

This of course reminds me of a beautiful song I have loved since Primary. "I’m Trying to be like Jesus; I'm following in his ways. I’m trying to love as he did, in all that I do and say. At times, I am tempted to make a wrong choice, But I try and listen as the still small voice whispers, "Love one another as Jesus loves you. Try to show kindness in all that you do. Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought, for these are the things Jesus taught. I’m trying to love my neighbor; I'm learning to serve my friends. I watch for the day of gladness when Jesus will come again. I try to remember the lessons he taught. Then the Holy Spirit enters into my thoughts, saying: Love one another as Jesus loves you. Try to show kindness in all that you do. Be gentle and loving in deed and in thought, for these are the things Jesus taught." Oh, how I love the special truths and knowledge which come from the Primary Songs. I am so thankful for my parents who raised me on this true Gospel so I can sing the songs I learned in Primary when it gets hard here in the mission field. I Love you all! :) 

Right after getting off the plane from the Solomon Islands we had a day in the Office taking care of things and had a lesson with Sophie!! Sophie is this adorable nine-year-old in our ward. Her Mom is a very active but her Dad is very less active. In the midst of all the confusion she was not baptized at 8 and needs to be taught by the missionaries. We definitely want her to be baptized and I am happy to announce this Saturday she will be baptized into this church! We will be flying to Santo Friday and will miss her baptism but it makes me happy the ward members are awesome enough to take care of things and play a big role while we are gone. There is a big problem in Vanuatu with The Ward relaying too much on missionaries and the Priesthood Men not stepping up. But we really feel it has gotten better as we have worked with them in our ward. Am I sad we are going to be missing the baptism? Yes. But she loves Her Heavenly Father and I know she will feel more of His love as she takes this step. I will never forget her excited, "Yes!!" when we asked her if she wanted to Follow Jesus. Children are such angels! I Love them :) Go Sophie!

The next day we headed to New Caledonia!! Because of the Flight situations we had to go a day early to New Caledonia and arrived on New Cal's P-Day which is on Wednesday. We went with the Zone Leaders to a local Library so they could do emails! Of course, we looked through the emails we already had received and some new ones we got ( :) Thanks for all the support. I love reading anything from your wonderful people) Then suddenly Elder Tetuaiterai (The Tahitian Zone Leader who doesn't speak English and only a little bit of Bislama. We have become pretty good friends even though we can only speak through my broken French or his Broken Bislama, and Cave Man Speech or grunts/Charades) told me to come with him and there was a man in the outside patio of the library teaching Hip-Hop dance classes. Of course, he thought we were just going to "interrupt his dance class by trying to teach but was totally stunned when Elder T. and I started learning the steps with the other students! 

We learned the entire dance and I'm not going to lie.. I got pretty good at it! Momma, you would have been proud! My head was up and I was smiling and performing the whole time. Then we kept dancing and all the students and us had a dance battle until they had to go home (we were dancing with a bunch of teenagers and young kids! So cute!) Everyone (including my companion) were astonished that the white boy could dance. I kept it missionary appropriate of course! I guess they have never seen a white man do a body roll before or Cha-Cha/ Jive! It was great! After all the dancing, he came and asked me tons of questions in French and wanted to know where I had learned to dance. Thankfully my companions who speak fluent French came over and we gave him a Pass Along Card. He looked like a man that would never want to talk to missionaries but through dance the spirit softened his heart. And maybe in 20 years when the missionaries knock on his door he will remember this moment we danced with him and that the missionaries are actually pretty cool! Sometimes it gets hard in missionary work so we dance or in French "Alors On Danse!" The Lord is preparing many for us to teach, don't give up my friends on missions. Heaven is cheering you on. NO EFFORT OUT HERE IS EVER WASTED!!! You are doing amazing:)! 

One more thought for ya!! An Elder told a story in NC Zone conference (He shared it in English which was nice) about how him and his companion loved to share an Easter video which shows the angels proclaiming the tomb is empty. Both him and his companion said it would both be awesome if they were angels proclaiming Jesus Christ does live when suddenly, they both looked up at one another and said the same thing. We are. We are! We are proclaiming that He Lives! We are his angels proclaiming this great truth! Go share your testimony! Live your testimony and be this light on top of a hill. I testify with every fiber of my body and soul that this beautiful Gospel is true! He Does Live!! 

I Love You All so much! :) Grateful for each one of you. Keep rocking it and know I am praying for you. 

Much Love to You,

Elder LaMont/Shark Bait/ The Come Back Kid/ Robin Van Persie Missionary Version/ A Ballroom Dancing Missionary

Health Update for Momma: I did get sick again. It's just the common cold and is only slowing me down slightly! It can't beat me though. I lived through Edema and Dengue! Nothing some Water and sleep won't Heal. Love you Forever my Angel Mother. :) Happy and Almost Healthy!! Your Boy Loves you. 

Barava Spiritual Taem Yet/ Solomon Island Trip/ Sharkbait's Surrvial Through Rugby Exploring Gudal Cannel

Hello Once more to my Dearest Family and Friends! How it does my heart good to take another opportunity to email and share of my experiences. This has not been your average week (what even is an average week in this Assignment given to both Elder Hable and I? Our Assignment as Assistant sure does provide some interesting times. Loving it!)  but one which has again provided much growth, challenging times, and wonderful memories. A beautiful recipe for a fantastic mission which is what I am experiencing! Hold on to your socks here we go! 

Wanted to share some things, which really stuck out to me this week during personal study and trying to hear The Voice of The Lord more in my life. I really have been seeking how I can be better. One thing I want to improve is Faith! Faith really is a principle of action. As we go put in missionary work or do our best to share this wonderful gospel it gives our Faith a chance to grow and develop. I know when we do our best to put Faith on top of our fears Our Loving Father in Heaven will support us in our trials and show His great love for you. 

Well, we went to Solomon Islands this weekend! We are just getting back today and it has been a long trip. Président Duquette wanted to start of this transfer's Zone Conferences in the hottest part of the mission! And let me tell ya... It's really hot here in the Solomon Islands! I Marvel at how awesome our ancestors were for fighting the Japanese in these kinds of conditions. It's amazing! 

The spirit and feel of Zone Conference was fantastic! So great! Solomon Islands are not my favorite place to visit in the mission. It's hot, the girls here are scary/ crazy, and there is this stuff  called Beattle Nut. Allow me to explain. The woman here... Ewww. It seems they would do anything to have white children.  They are very forward even with missionaries. Haven't had too many problems. They remind me of the sirens from Greek Mythology. The one that really made me feel uncomfortable is when one called out (Your translation provided by yours truly): "Hey tufala blue eye you go where? Or "Karem mi home (bring me home in Pidjin) I really wanted to tell them, (thought this might make you laugh Momma) "You need Jesus is what you need!!" Don't worry though. That crud doesn't work on me. I have got a thing for virtuous and righteous women. Solomons has really solidified this in my mind. 

Now to explain Beattle Nut. It could be summarized as well as some of the girls in Solomon... Pretty much Nasty stuff. Basically they chew a nit and mix it with this lime to give them selves a buzz or high. This turns into a red blood liquid that they spit out and it is everywhere. Nasty! Red teeth, red lips, and red smiles give a freakish welcome! 

The first day in Solomon Islands meant Zone Conference! It was a blast! We were all sharing ideas and the spirit really touched my heart. I loved all of it!! 

Although the conditions in Solomon Islands are not my favorite. The Elders here sure are amazing! We were there for 3 days (Most of which poor Elder Hable was sick from Solomon Heat is not good for those who are ill so we spent a good amount of time studying and resting) and my favorite day was P-Day today. We played Ping Pong and Rugby! That's right! The whitest dude in the South Pacific played against a bunch of Giant Togans and Samoans. My greatest asset was my speed, ability to keep running, and not giving up. I even scored twice! One of them.. my team totally set it up so I coild score! The other one wasn't too shabby if I do say so myself!;) My nickname was Palangi which just means white man in both Togan and Samoan! 

Sorry this email is shorter than normal. Our travels have made it hard to email and I am exhausted. Please know I am happy, healthy, and LOVING my missionary experience. It's very hard. But aren't the best things that way? It's all very worth it. Never forget that God does live and answer our prayers. He hears you. And I testify with all my soul that He Lives along with our Savior Jesus Christ! 

Much Love to all of you,

Love, 

Elder LaMont, Shark Bait, Smallest/ Whitest Rugby player in the South Pacific, Your Alekken Ty 

Health Update For Momma: This is because I promised you I would be better at this. Feeling very healthy and energetic! I did play Rugby without shoes because I did not think to bring P-Day shoes. Don't worry we played Touch Rugby. But one of the Elders was playing with cleats. Let's just say I got the touch in stopping the play that would surely have had them scored on us again but he stomped on my foot. It did in fact hurt. My toe got the worse and I just have some bruising under nail. Totally fine and I walked it off! So, my health is the best it has ever been in my mission!:) 

Here are some pictures from our Zone Conference! 

 The last picture is that of Beetlenut spit on the ground! Eww! Enjoy!:)

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