April 27, 1998

Letters from Cambodia   Letter # 15                                            April 27, 1998

            Well, how is everyone doing? I just read my mail and it sounds like ten days ago things were well. I’m glad that you enjoyed Easter Conference and had some good family time. The pictures from the fishing trip at Powell were fun to see. Quality time with Dad, enjoy it! Thanks for the Conference Report printouts, that’s the first we have heard of Conference besides the Church News.

            Lisha and Erika, I mean Bood funk a rama, thanks for the letters. I wish I could write you a good letter each week, but I just can’t. However this is what I have to say. Life for you two is good right now. I hear about dates and driving cars. I’m so happy for you and the blessings that our family enjoys. I too remember those high school days of packing the most fun and adventure in as possible. Enjoy it but make sure you have a testimony.

            How do you get a testimony? I know we all have a testimony, we have been taught well. I’m talking about the kind of testimony or belief or inner guide that will help you through all the hard times in your life. Let me see if I can use this week for an example.

            We have two people committed to baptism, Bunrith ( approx. date may 10) and SophanaRith also approximate date May 10. Also this week Luu Thom committed to be baptized , ( approximate date May 24). They were all committed during the second discussion and we continue to teach them. They struggle with the commitments of reading the Book of Mormon , daily prayer, going to Church, and all the things necessary to develop a testimony and gain membership. Yet they enjoy learning and the feeling they have as we visit.

            I especially learn a lot as I help teach Bunrith. He has many questions and does not want to wait as we say well we can answer that but why not wait for the 4^th discussion so we can answer it correctly, etc. Yet in my heart there is an answer for everyone, and he is so worried about trying to learn the message he won’t pray and ask, and is having a hard time understanding that you can know it’s true without knowing everything. With my language skills it is very hard to say the complete answer. I understand much more that I can say, and can speak the best about religion. I sit listening to Bunrith talk about his concerns and understand yet just wish I could speak completely to help him understand.

            The other day in the discussion I told him you have to have faith. “It’s hard, it’s hard for me just to believe everything”, Bunrith said something like this. I especially remember the words in Cambodian for “it’s hard”. I said your exactly right, it is hard, then I told him that I don’t even remember a point where boom, I had a testimony but I know that when I read the Book of Mormon, keep the commandments, pray, and do the little things it is a feeling that follows that helps me know that it is right and adds a little piece to my testimony. It is very hard to motivate someone to take these little steps and to do it for the right reasons and understandingly. And such a great feeling to have the Spirit there and see someone get excited about the Gospel. The ups and downs of missionary work, as you say Mom.

            Okay so back to Lisha and the Bood, Vern, T, or Nick, any of you who are listening or reading about testimonies. Just do those little things, go to seminary and church, obey parents and have a good relationship with them. Then have a scheduled amount of time each day morning or night or both everyday where you read in the Book of Mormon or other scriptures or New Era or something that will help you remember “the Plan” and strengthen you for the difficult High School times. I promise as you do this that you will have a testimony, each time in your selected study you have an opportunity to feel the Spirit, and you will have that inner testimony to help you through the mission, college, temple marriage, etc. I love you all very much. I hope you don’t just say oh he sounds like a parent and turn off. Hey it’s me your bud, the same kid that played back with you, listened to tunes, and played with you at the Lake. Have fun, work hard, smile and take 10-30 minutes each day to help you remember.

            Bood if you get to a place in the Book of Mormon that is hard to read or not the most interesting, skip it, and go ahead a few pages. Also, have you still got the study chair in ---the--- room, this will help a lot. ( The word ---the--- is used to avoid a debate in ownership.)  And the only advice I have on the Junior Year Student Council thing: If you have any plans for Senior Year Leadership don’t take on huge responsibilities your Junior Year that will burn you out.

            Lisha sounds like you’re working it with the dating thing, awesome.! How is the Senior Year?  Pretty much done by the time you get this. Now watch as everyone starts to decide what they want out of life. What is it that you want?

            It has been hotter than Toby here the past couple of weeks! Even the Cambodians are sweating and saying it is hot.

            Wednesday the 22^nd was one of the most special days of my mission so far. Every appointment was great and we had the Spirit there, for every appointment. It started with SophanaRith as we went through 2 Nephi 31 about baptism: entering “the gate” and following the example of Christ. I had both my Cambodian Book of Mormon and English opened up, as we read down through the chapter stopping to discuss the verses. It just jumped off the page and I saw a neat thing how we receive truth. I pulled out my flip chart, that shows the method which God uses to reveal truth and compared it to verses 11-13: Commandment of Heavenly Father, Jesus Christ follows and bears Testimony, Nephi is shown all this (verse 17) and bears Testimony to us, and finally we receive the Holy Ghost if we follow. It just jumped off the page at me.

            Elder Heywood and I had an awesome experience with the Priest hood this week, on that same Wednesday. We met a guy one day as my bag fell off my bike rack and was hanging by a bungee cord. I stopped and was fixing it and this guy came out from his house. He said he had seen us drive by before and wanted to know what we are up to. So we scheduled to come back, we met on Wed 22^nd. We went next door and met with his brothers family. Close to 10 people were there. They were very nice, they gave us coconuts to drink, and we started the first discussion. The Brother is a doctor and there was a Mother and her son ( approx. 20 years old ) the son was sick. They had come to Phnom Penh to get good medical help. The Son was sick and was laying there pretty miserable. Coughing. Also they said he would cough up blood.  TB? As we were leaving the Mom asked if there was anything we could do, and actually said can you bless him? I anointed in English and Elder Heywood gave the blessing in Cambodian. I really felt the Spirit as I laid my hands on his head and did the anointing. Elder Heywood had similar feelings and told him in the blessing that he would be healed. Friday we saw Cung Rit again, walking around with a smile. He looks like a different person. “Do you recognize who that is?”, I said to Elder Heywood. They are very grateful, the Mom and the Son, and also everyone that was there saw us bless him and how he has gained much strength. We are still meeting with them. However there is another problem. The Mom and the Son have spent all of their money and have no way to get back to the countryside to rejoin their family. Which also means all we can do for them Church wise is give a Book of Mormon and say well, look for us outside of Phnom Penh in a few years. However we have a few ideas to help them raise money without just giving it to them. The family of the Doctor also sells coconuts and if he will give us some coconuts we will go sell them to some members in the area and help them home.

            So much happens each day. It is difficult to stay awake sometimes during my nightly prayers, I am so exhausted. It is difficult hard work and kind of reminds me of the construction days as I come home dirty and sweaty, probably stink a bit too. However when we are teaching the Gospel and they are excited, I get excited and we feel the Spirit and it is all worth it.

            I appreciate all of your good letters. I even got a letter from Montrue this week. Awesome lady! Also good to hear that Sugar ( the neighbor’s dog)  made it back from the pound and also that Perot ( our dog ) is well.

            Thanks Mom and Dad for your letters and support. Lisha and Bood thanks for the write. Jon word up thanks for your letter. Ang Hi. Annie Word. I enjoyed the Snow Family letter. Thanks Grandma Hafen. I also enjoy Grandma Talbot’s letters each week. I eat a lot of bananas here, and it reminds me of Grandpa and eating bananas with him.

            Mom I hope some of your questions were answered in my big stack of mail last week. I ride my bike everyday and enjoy the exercise. Also after rice and stir fry each night this week I have made a fruit shake out of Thai yogurt and mangos and bananas, and the main ingredient is ice. Just like Zuka. Kind of.

            Church is just a house with folding chairs. However yesterday 104 in attendance so we pack them in but could squeeze in more. If you have more questions write them down for the upcoming phone call. I look forward to it and remembered about your trip. Harry I took care of it.

            I love you all very much. I love you Mom and Dad. Dad the section on 2 Nephi 31 was especially for you also I really like reading about when Alma asked the Lord what to do about those who had sinned in the Church. Mosiah 26. Fun to hear about yours and Mom’s missionary experiences.

            Love ya, your Son, Brother and Missionary ,              Elder J Clinton Rogers

Dad if you want to set a service trip or mini mission in 2 yrs this is who you talk to: Gary Flake SLC In charge of things like this for the Church:  Work 240-1417,  Home 292-8787.

April 20, 1998

Letters from Cambodia #14                                                    4/20/98

Dear Family,

            We are all very excited here at house 43233 as we are cooking a peach cobbler in our rice pot type environment and just sent the night guard for vanilla ice cream.

            It was a difficult week as most of the town shut down for New Years and people were coming and going from the countryside to be with family.  The kids get a 15 day break from school, it is just like Christmas for us. 

            As you can see I have completed a roll of film.  A few pictures from the MTC the rest from the Phnom Penh.  Many and most of these are tourist like, you see the good or beautiful things.  It is hard for me to just start shooting pictures in the poor areas or someone’s  home.  Also I only shoots pictures on P-Day.  I will shoot pictures of my area on the next roll.

            Before you dis the bike, ( The Japanese Red Rider) Elder Hoare broke his gear system, and Elder Williams snapped his axle on his bike, more expensive mountain bikes that look better, but mine is sturdy not a single break down, and it has a two-tone bell.

            I’m also enclosing some in my journal thoughts and experiences.  Hopefully it gives you a slight taste of the work here in Cambodia. 

            We have been meeting with a young guy a little older than us by the name of  Sophanaarit.  A great kid I really like him.  We have been teaching him the Discussions and English.  I’m not sure I have told you about him but we contacted him, he lives at house with the pet store out front. We met with him after the New Year and just started reading with him in the Book of Mormon.  He said he was tired after his trip to the country but we had a good discussion.  We were sharing scriptures and feeling good, we asked him to be baptized and he said yes, I want to be baptized.  We set a tentative date of May 10^th.  We need to keep working with him, and I’ll let you know.  Also his Dad has a Book of Mormon and has come to Church. 

            However, the highlight of the week happened on Sunday.  Elder Lloyd and my comp went to meet with the Branch Presidency before church.  I went with Elder Harmon to help a family to get to Church.  The family lived about 2 miles from the church and they don’t have a car or bike or money to rent a bike.  We were going to ride out to their house and walk with them to church.  However, we were late and when we got there they did not think that we were serious and weren’t ready.  Well we got them up dressed and ready.  The Mom ( Dad at work) boy 14 or 15 yrs. old, Girl 11-13 yrs old, Girl 7-9 yrs old, Boy 3-5 yrs old.  Church starts at 2:00.  We left their house at about 1:40 p.m. and started walking.  We were frustrated because we were going to be late, and the family wasn’t to energetic about an afternoon walk to the church in the heat.  Yet we wanted to help them have a good experience.  The little girl was on my book bag rack and the little boy was with Elder Harmon on his rack.  Mom, the other 2 and Elder Harmon and I were walking .  All of a sudden here comes two teenage members girls pedaling on their way to church, and they both have a pad for someone to sit on, on the back of the bike.  We loaded the 13 yr. old  and the little girl on the back of the girls bike, the mom on the other girls bike.  I loaded up the 14 yr. old and Elder Harmon kept the little boy.  4 bikes, a family of 5, 2 missionaries, and 2 young women.  We went slow but we made it to the church at 2:05 p.m. just as the opening hymn was started.  The family was happy and I was one happy Elder and so was Elder Harmon.  Things just worked out and we made it to the church in time for the sacrament, and not so late that the family was embarrassed.  We were doing our best with trying to get them there and to have a good experience, however we wouldn’t have made it without a little help from Heavenly Father, who also wanted them to have a good experience, and gave help by meeting the two member girls when we did.  It was so neat how things worked out!

            This week has also been extra humid because of rain.  3 or 4 times it rained heavy.  The locals tell me it is not the rainy season yet 2 more hot months.  It was a lot or rain though.  The one day we rode through the rain, it was just like old times. 

            I live in the same house but another Elder has come. 

                        Elder Harmon             Elder Rogers

                        Elder Lloyd                 Elder Heywood

            Things here in Cambodia can be summed up pretty good by what Elder Williams told me this morning.  “It is hard, but it is fun”  I appreciate your love and support.  I love all of you!  Keep up the good work!  Sorry can’t talk with you individually for a minute, out of time.

                                                            Love your Son, Brother, and Missionary,

                                                            Elder J. Clinton Rogers.

Journal entries:                                                                        3/5/98

            Today I enjoyed some personal study time in the room while my companion went to Salt Lake to see Temple square.  Elder Burton was sick and stayed in bed and so I was his companion in the room.  Elder Williams went to Salt Lake also.

            I have been studying and thinking about the plan of our Heavenly Father.  My study is out of the Book of Mormon.  Wow, what a great plan it is and how important and great is the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in this plan.  I enjoyed talking about it in the Book of Mormon share tonight as we read Alma 12 where Alma explains the plan of Zeezaram. 

            I have also been thinking a lot about what it takes to share the gospel with someone.  I have been thinking and planning my approach to the person sitting next to me on the plane to LA and Bangkok Thailand.  In a week I enter the real world as a messenger and representative of Jesus Christ.  I’m trying to prepare myself for this opportunity and responsibility.

                                                                                    3/10/98

            There is so much good stuff that goes on here.  I’m really thankful for the good companion, the good family and friend support, the opportunity to learn more about the gospel, and see how much there is to improve, accomplish and achieve. 

            I need to be more thankful and have a better attitude and try and remember that this is a message of joy.  Smile.  I’m happy but I tend to be serious, and tend to worry so much about doing better and planning and dreaming about myself, I need to care more about others. 

            I’m going to miss all these good Elders in my district.  We had another good heart to heart talk tonight. 

                                                                                    3/14/98

            Today was the last P-day here in the MTC.  We went to the temple, first thing in the morning.  I have done a Temple session or some temple work every week that the Temple has been open since I received my endowment Sept 27, 1997. 

            I really enjoy it and the peace I feel there.  Also I enjoy helping my Mom with the family names before I left.  Today in the Celestial Room I prayed and asked for the Spirit and power promised to those missionaries who receive their endowment and head on their missions. Well I asked Heavenly Father for this power and the Spirit to be with me as I take off for Cambodia on Tuesday, in order to help me be a good missionary for Heavenly Father and the people of Cambodia.

            Also after the session Elder Hoare and I put in an hour of service in the Temple laundry room. It was fun, we helped fold. 

            Also shopped, got a fresh haircut and washed clothes in order to be ready for Tuesday.

                                                                                    3/19/98

            Next stop Phnom Penh Cambodia.  I am writing in the airport in Bangkok Thailand, it is 5 to 9 a.m. in the city and already we are sweating as it is very muggy here.  Coming in I saw the city of Bangkok through the window of the plane, I can only imagine what Phnom Penh is like.  I saw some old looking apartments in one area with dirt roads in front, also I saw a big cool looking Buddhist Temple from the air.  There was lots of fields and canals and the houses are built along the canals. 

            I’m glad I’m traveling with Elder Hoare and Elder William’s, but it is still kind of scary.  I know that were are protected because,  here we are finding  are way through airports around the world. 

             I was going through the discussions a little bit on the plane.  I want to take one each week and study both through language and what it is about.  Also I want to pray and gain a stronger testimony of each of the gospel principles talked about. 

            I read from the Cambodian Book of Mormon kids reader.  I read about Joseph Smith and a summary of the B. Of Mormon.  My reading is getting better now that I am getting to the point where all vowels and constants are memorized.  There are still lots of words I do not know. 

            The Comfort Zone of the MTC is fading rapidly now as I get closer to Phnom Penh.  Pretty easy to ask myself what am I doing?  I know however that I am doing the right thing.  I am a missionary of Jesus Christ who has been called to go to Phnom Penh and share with the people the gospel which has brought me many blessings and hope.  I am sure that I will become much more thankful for my blessings. 

                                                                                    3/20/98

            Well today was my first full day on the streets of Cambodia as a missionary for Jesus Christ.

            My day started with zone conference.  I felt the spirit as we talked about the work and especially good as I have lots of good goals  I want to accomplish.  I ate dinner last night with the President and Sister White.  It was some good food. 

            Today we went to the market to buy a bungee cord for my bike and stuff for the new area book.  We talked with a group of guys out in front about the gospel.  Some really looked interested, smiled and listened, but a few made fun of us .  Also I turned to mount my Red Flyer Bike and drive away from the market, I fell off my bike.  I was kind of embarrassed.

            I got a chance to talk and share my feelings a lot today.  Wow, how neat and yet what a big responsibility to try and share the gospel with these humble people. 

            When we talked to Chhay Son, who was resting from work today, I gave him a Joseph Smith pamphlet and gave a little intro.  I felt the spirit and when it was over Elder Heywood ( my comp) asked me if I had.  Chhay Son agreed to let us come back tomorrow. 

            It is exciting and challenging as Elder Heywood and I open up the new organized South Central area.  An area that is not new, but neglected.  We are pretty much starting from scratch. 

                                                                                    3/21/98

            Good day but I am really tired!

                                                                                    4/8/98

            A visit with Luu Thom was first on the agenda.  We were going to start the 2^nd but found out he was going to the country for the Khmae New Year, and would be gone for 5 days.  So we gave the intro. to the 2^nd and read with him in the Book of Mormon.  He really liked when Christ healed those who were sick and afflicted.

            Schnaam is a member who we met with and with 3 Nephi 18:24 challenged her to hold her light and share the gospel with the friend or family.  She wrote a list and picked a date.  

            After this appointment, Elder Heywood and I left on our bikes.  Elder Heywood rolled up along side of me and suddenly stopped and threw up.  He had not been feeling well all morning and suddenly let it go.  I was very close and watched him throw up on the dirt road.  And actually watched without gagging or throwing up on myself.  I must be growing up. 

            English class was fun today.  I was in charge Elder Heywood is ill.  I was in charge of the lecture and I taught them “Wheels on the bus”

                                                                                    4/15/98

            I saw my first rain storm here in Cambodia.  It was coming down like a St. George cloud burst, but the Elders here said it was weak for Cambodia Standards.  The streets filled up and we rode through the puddles.  I put a plastic bag around my proselyting bag, and took my good scriptures out. 

            Today was rough as we were hoping to get inactive time, but with the New Year everyone is gone.  We taught a first to Varith and went back a little later to give him a B. or Mormon, and he told us we couldn’t meet anymore because the people he lives with are Buddist and don’t want him to study.  He was pretty excited when we taught him and then had to tell us no.  I’m tired. 

                                                                                    4/16/98

            A bit rough today again as it is still the New Year last day though.  The New Year goes for 3 days.  Most places have been closed and many people are out of town.  During the 3 days the thing to do is to go for a trip in the country. ( dau leen) or pay a visit to the “Wat”.  We dropped by the Wat today in our area, Wat Pul Tum Poug.  Inside the temple or church grounds, Elder Heywood and I could smell the incense.  We talked with a few monks, who told us to go and see.  Inside the big main building, was a big open room with big murals on the top half of the walls.  A big platform with a Buddha statue at the one end, and many people praying to the Buddha.  Also the people bow in front of and give money and food to the older people. 

            We also checked out a little festival going on by the Wat.  We shouldn’t have .  We were approached by many beggars, all of them in very great need.  There was probably twenty, and then Elder Heywood pulled out his billfold, and we were surrounded.  It was scary and sad at the same time.  I did not give any money.  I had very little on me besides my emergency 20 required by the Pres. , and I have been trying to live by the rule “only give to one what you can give to all”.  Maybe this is wrong of me I don’t know, however I am going to give my leftover Missionary Savings Fund as fast offerings.

            We did a lot of contacting today, I tried to get out of my comfort zone and approach many people.  I had many opportunities to speak and share the gospel.  Another difficult experience today was a man who was very interested in the gospel but was only in town for the New Year.  I gave him a B. of Mormon , a map to the church, and a first discussion pamphlet, and said please find us again and may the Lord bless you. 

                                                                        4/17/98

            Writing by the light of a candle as another big rainstorm has knocked out the power.  It is a mess around here when it rains and I am sure that I have not seen the worst. 

            A great zone conference this morning about having the light of Christ.  It is so important to have it for my companion and the people I meet and teach.  My relationship with Elder Heywood is improving and I’m trying hard to better support, serve, and love him.  Also it is so important to focus on the person we teach.  Often my mind wonders off selfishly during the day or during the discussion.  If I truly love the person and focus on them I am not distracted.  I’m also trying harder. 

            This morning after zone conference, we met with Sophanaarit and he committed to be baptized.  I really like him.  We hadn’t met with him for a week, and so only thought to read together from the Book of Mormon before finishing off the 2^nd Discussion.  Then after sharing a few scriptures Elder Heywood asked him if he would agree to be baptized.  He said yes.  However, the highlight of this visit for me was when I put to work what I was reminded about in Zone Conference: Love.  I told Rit that I really felt happy as we met together, that I knew that the good feelings came from Heavenly Father, and that I loved him and was happy to see him learn more about the gospel.  I really felt good inside as I told him this and tried to be full of love all day. 

            The rain was coming down so hard, and there was so much thunder and lighting, we went up on the roof and watched for a while.  I have also had many opportunities to speak Khmae the last few days.  It is helping me two ways, I’m getting over the fear of talking to people, and my language skills are growing.  I also enjoy asking people “do you know what Jesus Christ has done for us?” and sharing the message about Jesus Christ. 

                                                                                    4/18/98

            I had fun talking to Vismond after our appointment about my family and my mission call.  Again more language practice and getting to know a good member. 

            I was so frustrated today as we tried to meet with Jarith.  We had taught him half a first and returned to finish the discussion.  His friends where there and his neighbor came over and was answering the questions for him.  I was frustrated because of all the distractions there and I thought that Jarith was really interested. 

                                                                                    4/19/98

Neat experience today as I went with Elder Harmon and helped a family without a car or money for a ride to get to church.

                                                                       apri 

April 13, 1998

Letters from Cambodia-#13                                                   4/13/98

Remember—When you use pouch mail you can only send an envelope.  It can only cost 32 cents.  It can not be thick or contain any money or stamps.  Clint does have a PO box, but it is real expensive.  It cost about $14.00 a pound.  Clint’s PO box is

            Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

            Elder J. Clinton Rogers

            PO Box 165

            Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Dear Family,

            Man the pouch gets slower every week. 

            Khmae New Year is like Christmas, it is a 3 day party I guess.  The big thing to do is leave the city of Phnom Penh and go visit family out in the country.  Many people have left town, Sunday as we went headed down to the South part of our area there was a big traffic jam of people leaving town.  Also nobody wants to meet with us and if they do, they want us to come party with them se we will see what happens and how productive Tue- Thurs is.

            Today I went bowling with 8 other Elders.  It was fun.  I put my game face on and bowled a 156.  I also bowled in Doc Martin’s because they did not have any bowling shoes big enough.  Like I say it was fun because already I’m bad.  All the Elders, yet it was weird to be bowling as a missionary.  And probably the weirdest thing was to be inside an air conditioned American type building bowling, when there are small houses and poverty outside.  Phnom Penh is very weird that way.  On the same block are shacks and campfires, and a house with a fence, guard, and BMW or Mercedes, or probably more common a decked out Land Crusier.  I have kind of the same feeling with our set up.  Comfortable house, clean food, AC , running water, compared to the people I see and talk too.  I see lots everyday that makes me thankful for my blessings.  I’m still not use to it, the Elders who have been here awhile are used to it.  They don’t look around and notice things like I do.  It’s kind of like that day in Tiajuanna, as we saw things and people very different from St. George, UT.

            Well let me tell you about my week.  The highlight for me this week has been 2 things.  A) Elder Haywood and I completed our conversion retention activation (CRA) goals for our area.  The hardest part of these goals is to get the required visits with active and inactive members.  We did some better planning, had back up plans and got it all done.  It is extra hard when we have very few actives and inactives in the area.  B) We have been meeting and working with Bunrith, the man with many concerns.  I have learned so much as we have gone through the second discussion and answered his concerns.  He has studied much about religion, and has a busy job but one day had this wreck on the mo-ped.  Well, during his recovery time he hasn’t been working and we met him one day at home.  Each meeting we work hard in order to help him understand what we know to be true compared to all that he has studied.  Sunday morning we finished up the 2^nd and he committed to be baptized on May 10^th.  Four more discussions need to be completed, more concerns, and he will soon return to work.  It will be difficult to help him work for this date.  However the turning point came as together we read Alma 32.  We talked about all that he had studied and then compared what we had talked to him about to the seed.   How he first wanted to believe or believed a little bit.  He really got excited as it talked about how the seed would grow if it were good and true.  He said this is me as he had felt his desire and belief grow during the times we had met.  It was also exciting for me as I could see where Bunrith was at in the chapter and the growth of his seed or the beginning of his testimony.  Then I could see where I was at and the growth that my testimony has had in the last little while.  It was a neat experiences.  These can be good and not so good.

            Luu Thom and Sophananrit are still coming along however we won’t meet with them until after the New Year.  We continue to see good results in our area as we pray hard, be obedient, and get out and pedal the bike.

            A quick story about bike riding, there is lots of smoke and dust in the air from the dirt roads, smoky trucks, cooking fires and burning trash.  President has asked us to wear Doctor masks that cover our nose and mouth as we ride.  So Dad, next time you wear one in surgery, I’m over in Phnom Penh wearing mine. “I’m off to surgery…..”  We will see what kind of affect it has on my career choice.

            I’m healthy, and doing well.  As I stick to my schedule and work hard the time just zooms by.  I like the saying “You gain a testimony quicker on your feet than on your knees.”  There is not much time for anything else than proselyting, B. of Mormon, and language study ( I have the first memorized).  It is very important to pray, and study the scriptures and things, and go out and work hard and try to put your prayers and study into reality.  Hopefully you understand what I’m trying to share.

            Well, I’m out of time again.  I hope everyone is doing well.  I’m sorry I don’t have time to write you all.  I can give a full report or I can write a handful of short letters that I don’t think are as good.  Know that I love each of you very much and thank you for your love and support and for your prayers.  I really appreciate it and I know that Heavenly Father answers our sincere prayers.  I remember you in my prayers.  Next week I will try to have pictures and a few journal entries.

                                    Love Your Son, Brother, Missionary,

                                                            Elder J. Clinton Rogers

P.S. I am working my way through Mosiah on my scripture reading.  There is a lot of good stuff about Christ, and King Benjamin makes a cool “ If ye do + you will have statement in verse 11 and 12 or Chapter 4.

            Love ya, Clint.

April 6, 1998

Letters from Cambodia- Elder J. Clinton Rogers                                          4/6/98

Received April 16^th

Dear Family,

                Word from the streets of Phnom Penh!  I received a whole pile of mail today from the family mostly dated the 25^th of March.  ( That would be when the pouch dated it-  That would be a Wednesday-I thought it was suppose to leave on Friday? --It sounds like his news is as old as ours. )

                Thanks to all of you for your great love and support.  What a great family we have and I think we have all grown closer together over the years as we have started the traditions of family trips, Pine Valley, Family Home Evening and Mission calls.  Again, I appreciate your good support and will write this speaking to all of you, and ask my good mother to please make sure everyone gets a copy.

                Okay let me tell you about my week:  I have had several good experiences and met some more people who are interested in the church. 

                First let me tell you some other stuff:

                6:00 A.M.-            Get up

                6:30                        Companionship study

                7:00                        French Toast----24 slices divided by 4 Elders

                7:30                        Book of Mormon Study

                8:00                        Leave House

                                 ( somewhere midday  30-45 min. lunch)

                2:00-3:00p.m. Tues.- Fri. English Class

                6:00 P.M.              Home Shower Dinner

                7:00                        Language Study

                8:00                        House Study  ( all 4 of us study gospel topics together)

                9:00                        Planning

                9:30                        Journal, Brush teeth

                10:00P.M.             Lights out!

                Sundays are the same, we go out and work, meet with the Branch President at 1:00 p.m. Church from 2:00-5:00.  P-Day is ours except somewhere during the day we proselyte for 3 hours. 

                Last week I told you about Bunrith and Luu Thom.  Well Luu Thom’s mother has been sick and we tried to hunt him down all week. We finally found him on Saturday and got an appointment again tomorrow Tuesday.  We were a little worried that he was trying to dodge us because he didn’t want to tell us no.  But he has been helping his Mom.

                Bunrith also has been busy and we have been unable to get either of these two advanced to the 2^nd Discussion this week. Bunrith however was feeling bad and had had a scary dream. He told us that he had been really scared and that it was the feelings of an “evil heart” which means bad or evil feelings. We shared what happened to Joseph Smith before he received his answer in the grove, and we tried to help him understand where it is that bad feelings come from. Well he asked if we had ever felt this way? Elder Heywood didn’t answer. As best I could I shared part of the special experience I had with you Mom and Dad, the night before I left. I was certainly scared, and I gained comfort from my good parents, the scriptures and Heavenly Father. I hope it helped him, it was difficult to share this experience of mine with him because of the language and also because of how important and special it is to me. Again hopefully we can advance these two this week.

                We found So-phan-nau-rit and his Dad, Soka. They run a small pet store in front of their house. A monkey, 5 snakes, and some rabbits, and rats to feed the snakes. They are very friendly and Sophannaurit has been coming to English Class all week. We have taught them the 1^st , done a Book of Mormon follow-up, and have an appointment for tomorrow. Sophannaurit has read 3 Nephi 11, the promise, and is now reading about King Benjamin. He says he has prayed and feels like he received an answer that the book is true. He is really a happy kid (23 I think) and gets excited easily, a great smile. He was not able to come to church but Soka his Dad did and brought the older brother. We were out contacting and found them. More that anyone I have taught they seem excited about the gospel.

                Sin Ly is a taxi driver, and has a family of 4 kids.  3 cute young girls and a young son probably  like 12, 9, 7 ( the boy), and 4. He and his family are living in a house on stilts tucked away in a pocket of alleys of South Central Phnom Penh. We were going to meet an appointment with another family but they weren’t home. We saw him and he invited us over. We taught him a first discussion. He is a great guy, humble with a neat smile. I also have his business card so we will meet with him some more and then in a little bit when Mom and Dad come over, I will be familiar with a member who speaks pretty good English and will be your taxi driver. Sin Ly

                We are slowly yet surely getting this area rolling. This week I had to go on a split because Elder Heywood needed to meet with Elder Franandez. Well Elder Franandez’ companion is Elder Hoare. So Elder Hoare and I spent half a day together, out 2 weeks to the day!  We taught half a 4^th discussion to a 14 year old girl the same size as Jon. We kept it simple and used the pictures to show “the Plan”. Also we taught her the song “ I am a Child of God” in Khmae. She really liked it. It was fun. We also visited with an inactive, and taught their English Class. It was pretty neat as we pedaled down Moe Saa Tong Road I looked over and saw Elder Hoare, and it seemed so long since we had left the MTC. Yet there we were with smiles and limited language skills, braving the wilds of Cambodia.

                The highlight of the week was Mission Conference Friday from 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. It was my first chance to see all 21 Elders ( there are 21 not 22 ) and especially to see President  and Sister White in action. They gave great talks and it was a big powerful meeting, and helps you get fired back up. Also “Elder myself”, Elder Hoare, and Elder Williams were asked to bear our testimonies with Elder Colton. Elder Colton will have gone home with 2 years of service in Phnom Penh by the time you receive this. Wow! It was neat to see the difference between the 3 of us just starting and Elder Colton going home.

                I am enclosing a map trying to show my area. Also “Radio Song” by R.E.M. come on as I sat down with my food at Lucky Burger today. ( Clint has drawn a note on the map where ‘Lucky Burger’, a McDonalds type resturant is at the top end of his area.) Coincidence, I think not, but I didn’t listen to it because that would be against……..

                My first sight seeing trip was to the Royal Palace. It we the farthest North in the City I have been. The buildings were really neat looking and I saw lots of gold Budda statues. We could not see the areas still used by the King but saw the Silver Pagoda which got its name from the old silver coins which were melted down and turned into floor tiles. Has a funny metal clink when I walked on it. I took pictures. I’ll try to finish off the roll next week and get some sent home. Wait till you see the Japanese “Red Rider”, my bike.

                Okay Mom, I’m going to try and answer some questions. We run the Air Conditioning from 8 pm to 6 am and sleep good on wood beds with a 4 inch mattress. I like it better than the MTC. The house is nice with three bedrooms, a fridge and gas camping stove. All floors are tile. Running water but we don’t drink. All four of us Elders Harmon, Clayton & I live together. We have rice every night with a Cambodian stir fry type environment to go along with it. I like it and I like to experience the Khmae food. Also Elder Heywood’s Uncle is that Doctor Dad, and he is helping to support him on his mission. ( I asked Clint if his companion was any relation to Dr. Reed Heywood that was a partner with Dr. Hebertson at LDS Hospital and trained me in many of my surgeries. Clint’s companion must be Reed’s brother’s son.  Small world.)

                What a great bleesing you had to watch and enjoy General Conference, we will get a video tape copy of it in a week or two. Mom don’t worry about sending Church magazines we get all that stuff in the pouch from the Church.

                I am running out of time but I want to say:

                                Mom and Dad, it is hard to keep a conversation with this mail system. Thanks for the E-mails, just send 1 or 2 a week. Mid-week. Thanks so much for the love and support. I love you.

                Lisha- Bood. What up? How is the Senior year?  It is going pretty fast, and you will find that your life will all of a sudden be in your hands. Enjoy the good comforts of home while you can. Don’t even think about beating the Bucket Run record!  No way!  Bood what is this about a learners?  Just watch for the cars that are parked on the side of the road. You two can write if you want. ( Hint Lisha and Erika)

                Ang and Annie how are things? Just a few months and you will be a DMS Eagle.

                Jon my first companion and main man. Word up. How are you doing in soccor. Mom said you were sick, are you better now? Keep up the good work. I love all of you.

                Uncle Craig and family thanks for the letters and how bout them Utes! Awesome!

                Uncle Mike and Aunt Shell, thanks for your great letters. Vern get ready buddy and enjoy those good times with your fam and friends. No way can you touch the Bucket Run! T- Buff Word!

                Grandpa and Grandma Hafen, next letter I want to save enough time and space to tell you about the Olsens. One of the couples working over here. They are really neat people.

                Grandma Talbot thanks for your good letter each week. I really appreciate and love you.

               

                With that I will say each morning I read my Book of Mormon for 30 minutes and it is the highlight of the day. It helps me stay motivated and each morning my heart gets pumping as I gain the Spirit. I love you all very much!

                                Love your Son, Brother, Cousin and Missionary,   Elder J Clinton Rogers