November 25, 2013 "Zone Conference/Attitude of Gratitude/Hunting Season"

November 25, 2013

 

Hey all,

This past week I had the chance to go to Zone Conference and learn from our Mission President. The emphasis was on the Book of Mormon and the significance it has played in our conversions. Each missionary that stood and bore testimony of their experience in coming to know the Book of Mormon was powerful in an individual sense and a sense that no matter where each person was before, the moment they made the Book of Mormon the foundation of their study everything else in the Gospel fits. With the Book of Mormon comes every solution to each concern that any person may have with the church - God is our loving Heavenly Father, has provided a prophet in our day, and by reading the Book of Mormon we know that Joseph Smith was a prophet and that God has never - will never - give up on his children.

About the work in Gresham: we've been meeting with our investigator twice a week this month and he is set on being baptized. The biggest issue for him in the past was not that he wasn't reading but that he was not praying to know the Book of Mormon is true. I have a testimony that coming to know spiritual truths is done only through companionship of searching, pondering, and praying about what we read. As Sam studies, we sit in lessons and he teaches himself as we discuss scriptures and points of doctrine. And, he's very interested in temple work.

Our other investigator continues to prepare - he's really nervous though. We had a dinner appointment with him this past week and it we continue to help him understand why the Book of Mormon is so important.

Our lady investigator has unfortunately dropped off the face of the planet.

We had a high council member speak in Sacrament meeting about cultivation an attitude of gratitude. He spoke specifically on being in a meeting and someone thanking Heavenly Father for the Typhoon that hit the Philippines; that was not something I expected to hear. He said, "When we thank our Heavenly Father for the trials and afflictions that come our way we immediately grow in strength to endure them." Certainly something to ponder and pray about. I'm grateful for the trials and tribulations that I have been through because through them I lean on the cleansing and enabling power of the Atonement of Christ. I love Paul speaking about his afflictions in 2 Corinthians 12: 7-10
7 And lest I should be ^aexalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a ^bthorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.  8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
 9 And he said unto me, My ^agrace is sufficient for thee: for my ^bstrength is made perfect in ^cweakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may ^drest upon me.
 10 Therefore I take pleasure in ^ainfirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in ^bpersecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am ^cweak, then am I ^dstrong.

Thank you for all your love and support. I know that prayers are answered and especially this week I have found prayers answered through your emails and letters. I have the best family.
Love,
Elder Taft Robinson

November 18, 2013 "The Curse is Broken/May be getting ice skates 2 baptisms for December

 November 18, 2013

Good News!

A man who has been investigator for nearly a full year - has officially set a baptism date for December 14! When he first met with missionaries he was not friendly or polite at all but over time there has been a significant change. He's a little nervous and worried that he'll "fall off the bandwagon" and drink another beer but we are working with him to throw out the beer and move forward in his life. When we talked to him about having the Holy Ghost with him all the time and living worthy of the priesthood he was pretty excited. Larry is one of the most honest people I have ever met - when he says he'll do something, he'll do it.

Another investigator, a man that has dogged appointments for months - has begun to follow through in keeping commitments; baptism date set for December 14. There came a change in him when we taught the Plan of Salvation - his mind was completely blown as we talked about lives before coming here to Earth and then after we die. I sat next to him in Sacrament, Sunday School, and Priesthood and man-o-man he took a lot of notes all throughout. You can see the fire in his eyes and know how much he wants to know the Gospel.

Our lady investigator is always thrilled to see us come and talk with her. To our surprise, she called us her "prophets" when we came to invite her to church - haha I guess we'll have to go back over teaching about prophets.

Our new convert is doing awesome - she went to the temple and was baptized for him Mom, has a calling in the Young Women's, and recently told us that she is preparing to serve a mission! Could not be more excited for her.

I went on an exchange for a day in another area and had the chance meet with a guy who sounded like he was going to drop us. As we taught about the Book of Mormon, and got to know him better, he shared more with us and ended up 1) possibly buying me ice skates (Mom, I told him I didn't need them I promise :) ), 2) promising to buy Kocherhans a book, and 3) setting up a dinner appointment for the coming week.

We had the coolest experience towards the end of the night. It was getting late and we were on the last street before going back to the apartment. We knocked on a door and started talking to a woman about a modern prophet leading the world today. My companion and I were psyched when she said that she wanted to hear more. After teaching a short lesson about the Book of Mormon and setting a return appointment, the woman said, "Please, please, come back." So cool.

I've been reading the scriptures and found new insight in how unique the Book of Mormon is in relation to all the other scriptures. The Book of Mormon resonates in our Spirits profoundly because precious truths have been preserved. The scriptures are like love letters from our Heavenly Father; we just had to wait a little bit longer for the Book of Mormon to arrive - it got put on hold for a little while :). I know from my own experience that The Book of Mormon is the word of God; it heals the broken soul, teaches eternal truths, and strengthens our connection to our Heavenly Father. It works because it is true.

Ever faithful,

Elder Taft Robinson

November 11, 2013 "Scripture Power"

November 11, 2013

 

Hey,

It's crazy to see almost 4 months of my mission being finished. Last night I was sitting in bed thinking about all the experiences that led me to where I am now and was flooded with gratitude. This is the best opportunity and I want to be a missionary forever.

Our new investigator has a baptism date: November 23! He's been investigating for almost a full year now and gone through probably 6 sets of missionaries. It has been really cool to witness the changes and influence of the Spirit. When we talk about having that "good feeling" at church with us all the time he says, "you know, that'd be pretty cool". Ya, - it's awesome. So we're trying to get him to throw out the booze so he can be baptized in 2 weeks.

We've found more investigators in surrounding cities and have had a few first lessons with people. Most people say, "I'm interested in learning more but really don't think I'm going to join your church." Then, we hand them a Book of Mormon and if they read - everything falls right into place. Here's hopin'!
  

Our other investigator has been having some more health troubles and we continue to pray for her. When we talk about the scriptures with her she says everything just makes sense so we're hopeful that all will be well with her.

The chicken slaughter was last week and I had a blast. I had the chance to lop some chicken heads off, pluck them with a huge machine, and then gut them. It was the strangest experience - and one of the strangest smells - I've ever had. But, it was also one of the greatest; who knew I would be gutting chickens and grinding deer meat on my mission.

Grandma Rekow continues to try and set Muirbrook and I up with girls in the ward and members of her family. And so, we pull pranks on her: I slid down the woodchute to scare her and hid the 5 pineapples that she bought at the store.

This ward is awesome. Town of 586 and congregation of about 100 or so. We went to a dinner appointment with a family of all girls: Elder Muirbrook turned to me and said, "There are a LOT of girls here." (Yep, we're awkward missionaries.)

Keeping warm. Working hard. Laboring in the Vineyard.

--Elder Taft Robinson

November 4, 2013 "Halloween/Transfers??/Onward Ever Onward

 

November 4, 2013

Hey y'all,

It's been a crazy 3 months! I've just moved onto my 3rd transfer here in Wisconsin and it really doesn't feel like 3 months have gone by. I remember getting off the plane and wondering why my pants were sticking to my legs and why there was Packers stuff all over the airport. Already I have seen changes in my life and the lives of the people of this small town of 586 being changed through missionary work.

We've been able to work with a few family members in "Flooding the Stake with the Book of Mormon". Our stake president received a prompting that the Wasau stake needs to flood this stake with 5,000 copies of the Book of Mormon - the same number of copies that were printed in the first edition of the Book of Mormon - within the next 3 years. In this year alone I think they are just over 1,000 so one of our goals is to plant as many copies as possible in our proselyting.

A lot of the work in this area is helping to reactivate those that have strayed away. We've been working with a family ever since I arrived in Gresham who has been wanting to come back for a while. We were able to give them priesthood blessings and that was an amazing experience. Having worked hard and acted in faith, they now have the privilege of going to the temple as a family this coming Saturday.

We had a lessons with our recent convert and were going to talk about temple attendance and working towards the temple - turns out, she already had her interview and is going on the youth temple trip this coming Saturday. She's awesome.

A new guy we've been working with is thinking about being baptized. When I arrived he wasn't sure if the church was true and didn't want to be baptized. In my second transfer he began to see his own conversion happening as he recognizes the power of the Holy Ghost influencing him on occasion. And now, the first thing he said to Grandma at church was, "I think I'm gonna get baptized." He's praying about a specific date that we talked to him about and we continue to work with him - I think this is the transfer he'll be baptized.

This mission can be a roller coaster at times; the adversary really is working his hardest to fight against our Father in Heaven. But the thing that I continue to learn and love is God's love and mercy towards each of us. God doesn't expect perfection; he expects improvement.

Thanks,

Elder Taft Robinson

October 28, 2013 "Mohican Pow-Wow"

October 28, 2013

Dear Family,

Our investigator is officially a member of the church! Seeing her confirmed was such a cool experience. I feel the joy that comes as I watch others join into the loving covenants of the Lord. She is getting along really well with all the people in the ward and she will have no problem jumping right into faithful activity in the church.

When we taught our newer investigator we have been looking forward to meeting with her again but it appears that she kinda dropped off the face of the planet. I pray that we'll be able to talk to her soon and set up another time to teach her.

We have an appointment with our convert's cousin tonight at the Stake President's house and we are hoping that Baptism will become a goal for him. He had a previous preacher, while he was in Alaska, that basically stalked him because he wanted him baptized into that preacher's church. So, we are hoping that as we teach the Spirit will communicate the importance of baptism to him.

I've just hit my 3 month mark as of this past week and am blown away as how quick it's gone. Some days I feel like I may never make it through and then other days just fly right by. Transfers are coming up and it'll be a strange experience if I get transferred out of Gresham but I'll go where I'm needed.

Dennis - Grandma's son - recently killed a buck and we got to watch him clean it out and carry it to the garage. It would have been cool to have been raised on a farm :) Never a dull moment out here on the farm.

This past weekend our new convert invited us to a Mohican POW-WOW on the reservation just out of Gresham. Did I mention that she is the Mohican Veteran's princess? So, we had the chance to walk in and be the only white guys there. :) We were introduced to all the Indian Elders of the tribe and were invited to eat with everyone. There were prayers and songs sung in Mohican and they gave each of us a small bag of prayer tobacco - what on earth do I do with it? One of the coolest things of the POW-WOW was listening to the drumming and singing; I don't think it is healthy that they yell and chant like that but man it sounds cool. She did a short dance and then we had to go. I'll see if I can get a picture sent out. We are literally among the Lamanites out here on the reservation!

-Elder Taft Robinson

October 21, 2013 "Harvest Time"

 October 21, 2013

Mom, 

Our Investigator's baptism was awesome! As she was baptized I thought about how Heavenly Father and Christ must feel about us being baptized. There was a huge turn-out for her baptism so we are looking forward to the members and ward mission leader working teaching her. She's so excited and we are going to have her confirmed on this coming Sunday. Bishop Haffner spoke of the promises of baptism: as we commit to live God's commandments we are promised to have our sins washed away. Sister Pleshek spoke on the Holy Ghost - the Holy Ghost never withdraws from us, we withdraw from him. 

  She invited her cousin to come to her baptism and he really enjoyed it; we were able to watch "The Restoration" DVD at the baptism so he had a glimpse of what the First Lesson is. He had a bunch of questions afterward and we were able to introduce ourselves, the Book of Mormon, and schedule a dinner appointment at the Pleshek's for tonight. Tender mercies of the Lord.

We had a lesson with a woman that has dodged appointments since I arrived in Gresham. She has lived a tough life battling cancer and other health issues and has always held to her belief in God. We have made it a goal as a companionship to always teach lessons with an emphasis on Christ's Atonement and that resonated well with her. In that 1 hour lesson the Spirit testified and we were able to schedule a baptism date of November 30th.

Thank you for your love and support. I can feel the Spirit more abundantly as I learn to best recognize the Spirit. Hey, so RoBuz Disneyland trip: August 2015? Eh? :) I hope the Busbys are doing well!

I pray for everyone back home - especially G&G Huntington. I love them. I love all of you and am grateful for this opportunity to serve. I really want to take Grammy Robinson to a dinner and theater when I get back - I know, I know, that's quite some time away.

I feel your prayers and love each and every day. The work is hastening and I am excited and honored to be part of this season of harvest.

Your son,

Elder Taft Robinson

October 14, 2013 "General Conference/1st Baptism!/Exchanges

Hey Hey!

We officially have broken the Gresham Area curse - no baptisms within the past 4 years - with our investigator being baptized tomorrow. She was being taught earlier in the year but didn't have permission from her family so she disappeared. A few weeks ago she texted us and told us she wanted to meet again and be baptized. Came out of no where and has been an answer to prayers :)

She and another investigator both watched General Conference with us at the church - with Grandma and a few other members. One was really impressed with President Uchtdorf's "Come Join With Us" because he was convinced he has to be perfect in order to be baptized. I think he is beginning to see that baptism is something that he can work towards and be ready for.

Our latest investigator is going into surgery this week because of the veins that have begun to close up in his legs - don't smoke, kids - so we are praying that all goes well. We bought him a gigantic magnifying glass and large print Book of Mormon so that he can read. Praying that all goes well.

I had the chance to go on 2 exchanges these past few weeks and I learned so much about the power of relying on the Spirit in bearing testimony. I spoke with a number of people who claim atheism and it is the strangest experience to hear that and work to start up a conversation. The one thing that seems to spark an interest and welcome the spirit is the testimony and knowledge we have of eternal families. I am grateful for a loving eternal family.

Some funny things have happened this past week:

--While running, Grandma's dog, Roxie, knocked me over.

--Elder Muirbrook and I discussed whether or not Adam had a belly-button.

--I read scriptures to Grandma each night so she doesn't fall asleep in the kitchen.

--The young women in the ward awkwardly complimented us on our haircuts.

Keep in touch. :)

Love,

Elder Taft Robinson

October 7, 2013 "Conference Weekend"

Dear Family,

 

We've got a baptism date with one of our investigators! She was a former who dropped off the planet when her uncle said no but now she is 18 and has made the decision to be baptized! We're planning for October 15 and are psyched to see the first convert baptism in Gresham in the past 4 years.

Grandma has had us getting the house ready for the winter. Last week we spent 2 hours throwing wood down her wood chute to get ready for the cold winter here - not sure if I'll be here for another transfer, we'll see though.

General Conference was awesome to say the least. It was really weird not watching it with the family but I felt such a strong spirit throughout. I heard talks and felt impressions that have answered questions that I needed answered. I'm grateful for the blessing of a modern day prophet that allows us to understand the Lord's will for us.

The speakers were very open and bold in proclaiming the news of the Lord. I sat and thought about the council they gave for political and social changes that are happening in the world and the unchanging truth that God is the same yesterday, today, and forever. I have a feeling that the world is going to take yet another turn for the worst in the near future - I'm learning to hold faster and tighter to the Iron Rod.

"Look ahead and believe," "Doubt your doubts before you doubt your faith," "Rise up immediately," and standing for our covenants and families were themes that really stuck out to me. Hold to the never-ending Atonement and no matter what happens we will be safe. I am grateful for Jesus Christ's Atonement for all of us in paving the way to eternal life as a family.

Thank you for all your emails and letters - keep 'em coming :) I love hearing from you all.

-Elder Taft Robinson

September 30, 2013 "I Love You"

September 30, 2013

 

Dear Mom and Dad,

I'm sorry that I took you for granted. Being out here I have had a lot of time to reflect on the spiritual experiences that have prepared me to be a missionary. The one resounding experience has truly been the blessing of being raised by "goodly parents".

Out here, I recognize how special the blessing of "goodly parents" is. I have wept a few times at the sorrow I see in the hearts of the people we speak with. They are angry and lost yet don't know where to look for peace and solace. I see now that peace and solace in this life come through the blessing of eternal family. Eternal; a word that is so magnificent that we are not able to fully comprehend.

I am eternally grateful for your raising me to be a missionary. I see this mission not only teaching me to be a better missionary but also a better husband and father. Thank you for your prayers and love. I feel it each and every day.

I did an interesting exercise with my Patriarchal Blessing - I replaced all of the promises "You will..." with "I am..." Not only do I see promises but I see a better vision of who I was before I came here and who I am in the eternities.

Thank you. Love you

Taft

September 23, 2013 "Transfer 2 - Greshlahem"

 September 23, 2013

Dear Family,

Well, as of tomorrow I will have been on my mission for 2 months. I had no idea that I could learn and grow at such a fast pace. It really feels like each Sunday I reflect on the past week and see myself deepen in understanding and experience in the mercies of God and blessings of obedience.

Saying goodbye to Elder Leben was such an odd experience. He's home safe now getting ready to start a semester of school in Germany. I'll miss that guy.

Starting a new transfer I decided to look back on my study journal and personal journal to see how far I've come. I've learned a lot about myself and how God qualifies those he calls. My MTC District President said to me, "When you remove doubt and fear, you have real power." The kind of power that prepares me each day to be a better missionary, a man, and future husband and father.

My new companions is Elder Kevin Muirbrook from Spanish Fork, Utah. He's been out nearly 7 months now and is eager to set a new vision for this district - he's also District Leader. He's a superhero nut so we get talking about superheroes a bunch; Spiderman is his favorite. The area he started in was Elkhorn. When he arrived in Gresham and met some of our investigators he said, "So many old people I'm gonna grow some white hairs."

He was a bit sickly this past weekend but is find now. We were on house arrest because of him being sick so I had a chance to read and study, literally, all day. Especially this week, I learned that Heavenly Father allows us to go through trials because he knows exactly what we need to learn from our experiences; as we learn to overcome the trials in life we are given the opportunity to grow grace to grace.

Glad to hear from everyone. Pray always (D&C 10:5)

I am praying that I get to go to the temple some time on my mission - Elder Muirbrook was able to go in his last area.

I am so excited to hear from you guys about scripture study and prayer; and the way I feel those blessings and prayers answered. I read an article from the General Conference issue of the Ensign that spoke about "Standing in Holy Places"; your letters, emails, cards, and my Patriarchal Blessing are holy places I stand in when I need a loving message from home.

Love,

Elder Taft Robinson

P.S. Oh! I received the package - Thank You :) The pillow case is the bomb.com

September 16, 2013 "Teaching and Miracles"

September 16, 2013

Dear Family, 

Thank you for emailing me. It means so much to hear from you and the family. I read D&C 76 as I studied "Our Heritage". I am overwhelmed with the opportunity at hand - the life that we can have, that we will have because you and Dad were married in the temple. I am looking to the future to share that covenant with some young woman that will stand hand-in-hand with me in the eternities. I read my Patriarchal Blessing and am so grateful for the counsel and motivation it blesses me with - so much power in those words.

I read about John the Baptist just yesterday in the Bible Dictionary. He confirmed to me that no role - however small it may be - is insignificant in the eyes of God. John was said to be a tutor to many of the apostles and yet was forever humble and submissive to the will of the Lord when Jesus called his apostles and John the Baptist himself was not called. Disciples and prophets like John the Baptist and Abinadi gave their whole heart to fulfilling the role they are given yet neither lived long enough to see the full fruits of their labors.

Thank you for the support and love - I couldn't have asked for more dedicated parents; I love you so much. 

 

We've been praying for the Lord to provide us with opportunities to teach people that need something - to teach with the gift of discernment. It happened twice that this miracle was given.

We had a dinner appointment and had a few minutes to stop by a man who we are hoping to teach. We found him kneeling in his yard in worry and despair as he was being tempted to sin. On our arrival he was bewildered as we had shown up at the exact moment that he needed help - we were able to help him and teach him about resisting temptation and the blessings that come from doing so.

An older woman has been struggling with depression as she is stuck in her home due to illness. She mentioned her thoughts of not getting out of bed, the night before we came, and giving up. We shared Mosiah 24 about lifting up one's head in affliction because the Lord will always deliver us. Through tears she thanked us as she mentioned how amazing it was that we had the chance to be instruments in answering her prayers.

Love,

Elder Taft Robinson

September 9, 2013 "Hunting Pattern, Exchanges with Gautavi, Larry's Prayer

September 9, 2013

 

Hey Family,

This has been yet another exciting week in Gresham, Wisconsin. We continue to teach the few investigators we have and search to share our message with everyone.

One of the huge things about this week was the 1-6 Training Meeting where all trainers and their trainees met for a follow-up on how everything is going. I saw my entire district from the MTC and was able to talk with them on how their experiences are. It's reassuring to see that many of us have the same challenges in adjusting to missionary life and look to one another for ideas in finding, teaching, and being better prepared to share the gospel.

We learned about how faith in Jesus Christ and repentance were the means by which the war in heaven was won. As missionaries we are reminding people of the faith they already have but need to walk by. President Cutler is one incredible teacher.

Elder Leben said something absolutely hilarious about the Sister missionaries at the training meeting. (A sister that I lent $5 to in the airport for luggage paid me back after the meeting - Leben didn't know what was going on.) In response to the many young sisters coming into the field he coaxed, "They're in your hunting pattern, Elder." He goes home on the 18th and I'll miss his jokes.

I went on an exchange to Wisconsin Rapids - which reminds me of Sugarhouse - with one of the Zone Leaders, Elder Gautavi (Nah- tuh- vi). We made a commitment to talk to literally everyone we saw on the street and saw miracles happen. We ended up teaching 4 lessons and scheduling 2 return appointments within 3 hours. Gautavi is focused on teaching through love because that is from God. In our success, however, we taught a family who is in despair of their extended family - it breaks my heart to see people cry and mourn for their families. Yet, we were able to invite them to church and promised peace through faith.

We had a chance to teach Larry again and prepare him for being baptized - he's the football fan. Going over the baptism interview questions he is getting closer and closer to the goal - he has a hang-up with prophets and the Word of Wisdom but he is making subtle changes each week. He prayed verbally for the first time with us and it was a special moment. I have this profound feeling that he will, in fact, be baptized into this church and continue to progress. By small and simple things, right?

I am so grateful for this experience. We drive in the car a lot and I have some time each day to reflect on my life and all the special experiences that have influenced who I am today; I think back to Heather Christensen's sacrifice, High school, scout camps, disneyland trips, and moments with my family members. Literally every time I feel down or unwilling to do something I start counting my blessings and my desire to serve grows stronger than it's been.

Thanks,

-Elder Taft Robinson

PS. Let me know if these emails are too lengthy.

September 3, 2013 "Big 19, Some Crushing, and Loving This"

September 3, 2013

 

Dear Family

 

This has been an eventful week. Some exchanges and notable experiences that build testimony.

I was in Antigo, on exchanges with an Elder Parker (yes, somehow he comes from the Parker family), we were walking down the street and both had the impression to talk to a man we passed by. We both looked at each other and agreed to go back. We did and ended up teaching a short lesson on eternal families and agency.

I've learned that a little 6 year-old girl named Elaynna has a huge crush on me. Each time we go over to teach the family she pulls out every coloring book, dress, and dance move that she can. We colored a Dora the Explora coloring book and she drew with blue crayon on my pants - can't wait to have kids, right?

Elder Leben told me a joke, "Elder, how far away is that airplane? About 300,000 feet. Nope, 2 years." He's the best.

We tract a little bit in cities around with little success - knocking doors is not all that effective here.

I was assigned to teach Gospel Principles for Sunday school this past sunday on Honesty. I read through it, thought through it, and prayed about it; preparing the best I know how. I said things in that lesson that I hadn't prepared; thoughts that came and concepts explained in ways I hadn't thought of previously. The Spirit guides the lessons; and should, always.

My birthday did not land on a P-day. Sad Day. However, my birthday was an absolute party. I've been here little over a month and 2 families through 2 separate birthday parties for me! We had a service opportunity for a man named Ivan (he looks like Don Knotts) with continual storm clean-up. And a huge nerf war with Grandma's great-grandchildren. Such a humbling day.

We've had the opportunity to work with investigators and such but a lot of time, as of lately, has been spent helping less-active members and looking for referrals. Nourishing the Saints. Wayne, a new investigator is reading, Larry has a baptism date, and we are continuing to look for new people.

The work is progressing and we continually look to share it.

-Elder Taft Robinson

August 26, 2013 "Tornados and Exchanges"

August 26, 2013

Dear Family,

This has been a week of service. Last Wednesday - the day before zone conference and exchanges - a tornado blew through Gresham. Don't worry, everyone is fine. (It was actually the coolest storm I've ever seen.) Our APs drove through it to get to Grandma's where we all enjoyed some SunDrop and a nice farm grown dinner.

The next day we had Zone Conference and took off on exchanges. I went to an area that is gigantic; called Rhinelander. I served with Elder Aubrey - he's an older brother of my friend Elijah Aubrey who leaves for Russia within the next few weeks. We taught a man on agency and the blessings that come through making the right choices. The best experience, however, came when we were serving in an elderly home for the day and I was thinking about the family. I felt the impression: everyone is fine; they'll be there when you get home.

As great as exchanges were it was really nice to be back in Gresham with Elder Leben. We went and celebrated a member's birthday and I ate three pieces of cake (don't be surprised if I'm chubby when I come home, they just keep feeding us).

Given the tornado we've spent these past few days helping people cut up trees and haul away brush. I've got some pictures of the aftermath - we are so blessed that these massive trees didn't fall on more of these houses. Not to mention the great blessing of service.

We've visited a family in the area that loves having us come by; Lee, Amy, and Abby. They love seeing us but we generally have no idea of what to expect when we stop by. However, they have a game where they have to pay a quarter if they swear in front of the elders - and, needless to say, the quarter jar is filling up. They believe in families can be together forever and I'm hoping we'll be able to teach them.

I've been working studying through Book of Mormon and just read the Savior's ministry. And I thought about Enos learning that he is forgiven - instantly, he stops worrying about himself and seeks to teach anyone he can. That's powerful. As we increase the vision of the Gospel in our lives our desire to share it grows. My desire to serve grows each and every day - and I'd be lying if I said this was easy; however, it's worth it.

I have come to know for myself that The Savior lives. Joseph Smith did, in fact, see our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. The Book of Mormon is the word of God and a testament to us that we can be saved from the gall of bitterness and woe - we need only honor our covenants. I have come to be grateful for the difficult times and trials because I know that God always fulfills his promises; we need only be patient. We are empowered individuals against the forces of the Adversary.

Your missionary,

Elder Taft McIntyre Robinson

Aug 19, 2013 'Nazi Pancakes, RM Marriages and Windows Opening'

 August 19, 2013

Dear Family,

Grandma (Abuela as I call her) has never ceased to amaze me with her plethora of cooking. Potato donuts, carrot pancakes, mystery fruit topping, and even Nazi pancakes. Grandma is the kind of person that will lift you up without you even recognizing it; literally everything she has she knows comes from Heavenly Father. I'm beginning to see the endless blessings that I see in my own life.

I was studying about the law of tithing and found that if we are willing to pay our tithing that the heavens will open and pour out so many blessings we won't have room enough. I see that in our own family life and history - we've had some rough spots but through the Lord we've always managed to make it through. (Imagine the blessings that come through obedience to all other commandments.)

We had an appointment with an older man named Larry. He wasn't all that religious until he was in a bar one night, having bet on a Packers he had guessed the score would be 24-17. The Packers were pushed back to the goal line and Larry yelled, "Please Lord, I'll go to church." Well, lo and behold, the other team fumbled and Larry found himself in church the next morning. Since then he's been interested in the church and we work with him each day. I have this feeling that he'll be baptized soon enough.

Tracting is not easy here in Wisconsin; most people have either been told by their pastors to specifically avoid the Mormons or have already voiced their disinterest. It's difficult to see people close the door on a message that grants eternal happiness. Elder Leben and I discuss a lot about the Plan of Salvation.

However, as difficult as tracting can be, we were invited into one house. Elsie, an older woman with a big family, has such faith in Jesus Christ and we are eager to invite her to read the Book of Mormon. She's been to Temple Square and loved Utah - even likes the Mormons she knows. And she wants to know more!

There is a huge population of Mohican and Manaumani indians up here. They believe in what is called "The Big Drum" that teaches very similar values and principle that Christ teaches. One of the most difficult things that the Indians struggle with is that Christians don't seem to live their own religion. No one is perfect but with every stereotype there is an ounce of truth. So, hopefully, we can change that stereotype. Regardless, the indian people are loving and pretty open to hearing what we have to teach - even if they aren't interested in changing.

We spent a day on our bikes and got really saddle sore - pretty sure my back tire was loose too - but we were able to see a little more of the country here. I'll get some pictures ASAP.

Elder Leben and I continue to grow as a companionship. I've learned a number of things from him: 1) simply looking at someone and not saying a thing is fine, 2) silence is a powerful teacher, 3) being blunt about how you feel is not impolite, and 4) European Soccer is awesome. Leben has this sense of humor that is quick and subtle but gut-busting funny. He and Grandma banter about Nazis (he's cool with it) and her getting old; not to mention Grandma trying to set us up with her Granddaughters. He's headed to college soon and we talked about his plans: he's not a fan of a ginger wife in the future.

I spoke in church yesterday and felt I was able to communicate the reason of repentance; like Alma to Corianton - we need not dwell on our mistakes other than to turn us closer to Christ.

I'm beginning to get a feel for what this place is all about and how to address certain concerns. God always fulfill his promises. And I look at John 14 where it commands us not to be afraid - Jesus Christ has faith in us so let's show some faith in him.

-Elder Taft Robinson

August 12, 2013 "Hello There from Wisconsin (P-Day 1)"

Utahns (and one DR schmoe),

 

So I'm here in Wisconsin - wondered if it would actually would happen, but yep, I'm here. In the airport I was able to call home and say farewell to the family and friends, sing Cumbaya, and hopped on an airplane. I was able to give a passalong card to a woman in the airport who looked at me like I was crazy but I was not prepared for the conversation in-flight. I sat next to two women who were speaking about "Hands for Haiti" for a while - with one of the women speaking out against certain "large non-profit organizations" while looking directly at me. And so, I left a note and card to visit mormon.org. Stick it to the man!

 

In between flights I found out that Elder Walkup was not going to come with us to Wisconsin, and so we said goodbye at his gate and sent him home to Virginia. He's hoping to serve a Service Mission closer to home.

 

We were greeted by Elder and Sister Cutler at the Airport - a wave of humidity, ya, felt it - where they drove us to a church for interviews while the Sister missionaries went to take naps at the Mission Home. We were interviewed, fed, and then each person was invited to share testimony in a testimony at the end of the day. We were up for 40 hours straight and man-o-man I don't want to do that again. Long story short, we were put in a hotel for the night and assigned companions in the morning.

 

We were welcomed to the assigning meeting with all the current missionaries singing "Called to Serve". We all received companions and were sent to our areas; mine being Gresham with Elder Aaron Leben.

 

Elder Leben is here in Gresham for a second time and last transfer. He's the district leader and a fantastic teacher when it comes to simply and succinctly. I have a lot to learn from him. He grew up in Braunschweig, Germany area and is a huge soccer fan; he filled me in on all that's happening for the World Cup. His sense of humor is extremely dry and he loves to tease in every subtle way he can. Likes shoes, shopping, and is going to college in Germany to be an Engineer. Silent but deadly.

 

We are staying with Grandma Rekow in a small house that was built in 1920's. It's a farm. Where I had imagined and planned on serving in a busy city I'm learning what farm country is like. We get the eggs each morning and live off food like carrott pancakes and beet/carrot juice. I'm not sure if I'll be gaining a lot of weight this mission - we'll see what winter brings. Rekow is in her 70's and loves to tease us missionaries by setting us up with her granddaughters that are close to our age - you'd be surprised how successful she's been with 1 or 2 missionaries. We pull pranks on her occasionally - dressing the coat rack up like a robber and such. She had Elder Leben kill a bat that was flying around the house and when we went to throw it away it was gone. She's golden.

 

This place is amazing. We go running every morning and I feel like I'm running through Hobbiton - bear with me here - the whole place is corn fields and gardens. You drive on the road and see nothing but field after field of green landscape. You have got to see this.

 

I'm beginning to learn the city and the people. We've been working with a few Investigators on teaching the Restoration and the blessings of the Gospel. I find that the biggest trouble up here is the Word of Wisdom - not a shocker. People may believe what we have to teach but it usually depends on their willingness to give up vices and obey the Word of Wisdom. Many-a investigator and inactive member have struggles with this. But, we always work to improve. We're hoping to meet with a man who recently survived a 4-wheeler accident; it broke his left leg, broke all the ribs on his left side, and put him in the hospital. From what we're told he is now seeing the influence of God in his life and recognizes the need for a change; his sister is a through and through Catholic so we're hoping and praying we'll get the chance to teach him.

 

We went to the Harley Davidson diner and museum - very cool place; so much meat to eat. I had the chance to go to a Mohican POW-WOW this past Friday night - so interesting to hear the singing and watch the dancing.

 

Yesterday we went to a baptism; Porter Hoffman (8 year-old) and what an experience. I got a glimpse of the joy that baptism brings - what Heavenly Father must feel - because when Porter came out of the water the first thing that I wanted to do was just give him a big bear hug. Not to sound weird or anything but I know that Heavenly Father up there is just waiting to give each of us a big hug when we return home. That just stuck out to me.

 

We went to a dinner appointment at the Templetons where I gave a picture of Jesus riding the donkey and the littlest girl there Elaynna said, "That's my Dad." I explained that it is Jesus Christ and that he loves her with all his heart. She asked me if she could keep it forever; I told her to keep it forever and forever.

 

I'm learning to keep the Savior in my heart all the time. I pray for each of you, love you all, and I see you in 2!

 

Your missionary,

Elder Taft McIntyre Robinson

He's on his way! August 5, 2013

11:30 pm August 5, 2013

We just spoke with Elder Taft Robinson while he is at the airport awaiting his flight to Detroit, then Milwaukee.  He loved his MTC experience-short as it was-and the 30 missionaries in his district.  He is traveling with 3 other companionships tonight and is in good spirits.    He was happy, excited and so anxious to serve the Lord in the mission field.  We love him!

First email from the MTC! July 31, 2013

July 31, 2013

 

Dear Family

 

I made it! I've survived the first week of the MTC. It hasn't been easy but it has been worth it (such is the nature of everything in the Gospel).

Saying goodbye to the family was one of the strangest experiences of my life. It hurt; but I know in leaving I can return later. Things like that have to hurt; or else they don't mean anything.

We were walked into a gigantic room where they read off a list to see where everyone was going; so many different places. We then had a devotional where we learned a few things from our speakers, the Roaches:

"You are now Elders & Sisters; 'Guys' are the boys back home dating your girlfriends," and then Brother Roach said, "Anyone feeling nervous?.....too bad (with the biggest grin)." (Sound like Sister Busby to anyone else.)

I've learned similar rules and culture stuff for here at the MTC but the most notable thing has been the change in my heart. It would seem that in the chaos and abrupt getting ready for the MTC I misplaced the real reason I joined the mission force in the first place. During one of our reading exercises (Book of Mormon reads we write questions on the board and have our companions teach us to feel the impressions of the spirit) my companion taught me of the Restoration; no new information but exactly what I needed. My question was: How can the message of the Restoration help me serve with a whole heart?

Needless to say I am an ugly crier and found my passion for serving the mission: a newfound; newly discovered; and full-pledged conversion to the Lord. If I can but share the message of the Restoration and the Plan of Happiness that will allow my family to live together forever then my mission will be fulfilled. I can return home in Honor.

My companion is Elder Darren Smith. The best way i can describe him is he looks like the bully from "A Christmas Story" and laughs like a muppet (through a lateral lisp). He ran hurdles in High School and always asks me how to be more flexible whenever we have gym time. The thing that is unique about him is that he has a huge family: 6 brothers and 2 sisters. He has a strong testimony of the Plan of Salvation because he sees 2 of his brothers that have mental disabilities - he taught powerfully to a man in role-play of Heavenly Father's plan for each of us.

Elder Smith is hooked on bananas and I can't tell if it's a good thing or a bad thing. His favorite thing to do is see the least amount of bites he can eat a banana in. So far he's made it to three - the sisters in our district just love when he does it. But I always get a good laugh out of it.

The food at the MTC is not kind to the stomach - so tasty - but has done work on the aroma in our apartment. Our district comprises of 10 missionaries total: Elders Robinson & Smith, Webster & Walkup, Folker & Crandall; Sisters Silva & Asper, and Hansen & Nichols. Starting out everything was kinda awkward with having a second-half per se 24/7 but it's turned out to be fun.

Walkup is a living Mr. Bean - looks, demeanor, and humor; Webster (district leader) is a jokester; Crandall is like a big teddy bear, Folker reminds me so much Uncle Nathan, Smith is the time keeper ("it is __:__, let it be known").

We've had a number of funny things happen: tone-deaf shower singing, Crandall's midnight sleep walks, Elder Walkup destroying the bathroom - potty jokes don't get old, it's okay to laugh :), Sister missionaries getting chased by a mouse, and the list goes on. Plenty more to come, I'm sure.

I've been sending a bunch of letters out lately because I am eager to share all I've learned. The Gospel is worth it. Prayer and scripture study is a gateway to knowledge and understanding who we are in relation to the work at hand. We can trust that the Spirit is guiding us when we know we are doing what our Heavenly Father asks. God's love is simple; the gospel is simple. I'm grateful for the love that I have received - your prayers have not gone unnoticed - and know that you are in my prayers.

Dreams really come true; we need only believe,

Elder Taft McIntyre Robinson

It's Official

Elder Robinson was set apart last night by President Gleason.  It was a great experience for all.   President Gleason shared with us that with Taft's setting apart there are 110 missionaries serving from our stake and 27 with calls.  He commented that if every stake in the church had 100 missionaries in the field the missionary force would be 300,000 strong.  That's something to think about and plan for.  Taft is ready to go.  We are pleased with his preparation and focus  We are only a few hours away from dropping him off at the MTC.

Final Preparations Underway

We are pleased to report that Taft is ready to go.  He will speak in Church tomorrow and we are excited to hear from him.  Many members of the family will be in attendance as well as choice friends from the ward and community.  Thanks to all who have helped the Robinson Family prepare for Taft's departure.  As we have done with Elder Hunter Robinson on his blog, we will make every attempt to post Taft's letters and photos as his mission runs its course.  All the best.  Russ Robinson (Dad).