Paintball, Pap, and Preaching the Gospel

August 1, 2016

On a hill above my area

Paint Ball--Magupani Zone vs Pretoria Zone

Hello Everyone!

Sooo, this week has been good! We had two days of exchanges because my companion  is district leader and had to do baptismal interviews. I went with Elder G. one day and then with a zone leader Elder B. We got two new investigators and the spirit was strong. I think teaching the Plan of Salvation is my favorite. So many people wonder where we came from, why are we here and where are we going? As soon as you tell them they can see their child again or their parents in the next life it truly changes there life. We spoke to a lady named Tambi and made her that promise and she broke down. It was sad but so amazing at the same time. I love being in lessons and feeling the spirit of truth working through me. Sometimes you start speaking and you don't know the next word you are going to speak but it just comes out. It is my favorite feeling! I wish I could GoPro everything! I love my area and everyone in it. It is such a blast!

On a little lighter note, I think I am becoming famous in Mamelodi. People see me, a lekgowa (white guy), they grab my hand and start talking to me. Once they hear I am from Las Vegas they all freak out. I have people that say, "Hey Las Vegas!!" They all want me to come drink or smoke with them but I say "Noo, no. I am a missionary".   It literally happens every day. Things are fun here. Our Mission President, President Chandembuka, approved paint balling for a P-Day activity so we went today. I never thought a year ago I'd be playing paintball in the African bush. It was the equivalent to 15 US dollars. It was sooo much fun, it was one zone vs another—Magupani zone vs Pretoria Zone.  I’m in the Pretoria Zone.

It really brought us all together. I like these guys here.

So when it comes to my cooking, allotment is 1,450 rand a month equivalent to about 120 dollars. Things are pretty cheap if you go to the right stores. So I have been eating good. The people here love me, especially because I have been learning a little bit of Setswana and Zulu. They can’t believe it! We have seen some crazy stuff but it hasn't ever been too bad. I am loving the mission more and more. I am really starting to get the hang of things. I love you so much and thank you for everything.  Give the fam my love and regards. 

Dear Coop,

Your week sounds like it was fun, I miss the ranch. Stay adventurous and fun! I love you so much man, you are a stud. Have a good week and keep me posted on the dirt bike stuff that sounds like so much fun!! Live every day without regrets of your words and actions, try to live like the prophets of old. I look up to them so much. In Preach my Gospel there is a line I like "Just as vital as what you do, however, is who you are." So try to become the best version of yourself you can be!

Love,
Elder Voyles

July 25, 2016

Outside the Mission Office

Steak, Pap (like grits), Homemade Bread and Dried Fruit

Hello Everyone,

This week was interesting. Tuesday morning I got pretty sick until Thursday. I had a stomach bug and some pretty bad body aches. I slept for two days but now I am all better and we got back after it ASAP. We weren't able to go to the area Tuesday and Wednesday but we still had a successful week compared to a normal one. We have seven new investigators. One of which was a very spiritual experience! We went to a regular’s house and she wasn't there but this lady named Ntabisen was. We started with the Plan of Salvation and she just started crying. It caught me off guard but ultimately it went great!! Both her parents are dead and she still has a strong belief in God and His love for her! I felt prompted to share with her the analogy of the refiner’s fire and she really understood that it has made her stronger in faith and spirit. We have a lesson with her tomorrow so pray she is actually going to be there. All in all a very successful week!

Mom, I will just buy shirts and stuff here. I don't need much at all. In the package, just send your love (and by love I mean whatever you want just don't send an empty box).  Tell grandpa Happy Birthday and I love him.  He is a strong man and a good example.

To Cooper:  Be thankful for everything we have!! Coming here made me realize how well off we are! It is such a privilege to live in the country we do with the law and rights we have. Love it all and be so grateful!!!

Love,
Elder Voyles