Turkey, Pumpkin Pie, Mother's Day, Introducing Cooking Hot Dogs on a Stick and Selling a Pair of Pants Week of 12-9-14

Hey guys! Its Christmastime! It sure is an altogether different experience, celebrating it here in Panama. Its different, but its a good different. :) Yesterday we had a delightful lunch with Hna. Isabel, in our ward. She had planned to make us a Thanksgiving dinner, but the water went out in Las Tablas that day. It's something that happens a lot, jaja. We have giant water bottles full in case there is no other way for us to brush our teeth. That´s the most important thing. ;) So, we weren´t able to have it that day. We had it for Mother´s Day instead! Mother´s Day is December 8 here in Panama! So happy late Mother´s Day you wonderful women out there! Most especially my mom. She´s the best. :) 

We had PUMPKIN PIE. I was so happy I almost cried. You don´t realize that you were missing something until its right in front of you. I actually got to make the pie crust, because the recipe was in English. ;) Hna. Isabel speaks English too. She lived in Florida for quite some time. I had to adjust the recipe quite a bit...the elevation, humidity, and air is slightly different here, jaja. Remember how the weather hardly changes? Its either hot, really hot, raining, or not raining. I am pretty used to it by now. The beauty part of it is my wardrobe doesn´t have to change. I didn´t have to drag heavy boots here with me, like I am sure you guys are wearing now, back at home. 

Oh! So anyway, the crust. I was left in charge with a Kitchen Aid. Dad, I was singing Christmas songs, and using a Kitchen Aid. Needless to say, I was perfectly content. We had turkey, stuffing, carrots...yeah...while other may have found the food strange, I was in heaven.

So...changes are this week...and I am staying in Las Tablas! What are the odds? I had a feeling I was staying, and that is okay with me! My trainer is leaving me though. :( I have loved working with her...its definitely going to be different! I am officially done with my training period. Have to take charge, and not be afraid to speak up! So, in honor of my wonderful companion, I am going to make a list of things that are some of my favorites we accomplished/experienced/laughed about together. 

1. The attendance in Sacrament Meeting. Along with the members and the other missionaries, we have doubled the number in just a few months. Our average is now 50! 

2. The music. We have done so much work with the music. We now have an established choir and piano class. I am a little nervous about continuing them without her, but I know that I can! They have really enjoyed it, and yesterday in church, Pres. Madero said how grateful he was for the two of us, and how we have helped ¨wake up¨ the branch with music. I know its such a tremendous blessing for me in my life...I hope they continue to grow in their love of music. 

3. Running EVERYWHERE. For some reason, we tend to run late...a lot. I don´t know what it is, we talk a lot, or something. But we are always running to catch a bus, make an appointment, eat food. My legs are in pretty good shape because of our time together. 

4. Our Christmas decorations. We have a string of lights, two deflated balloons(one red and one green), and a tree shaped ornament. Oh, and the lights broke...one of the prongs is stuck in the wall. Its a wonderful sight. We definitely are living the missionary life. 

5. Work together to teach others the importance of Jesus Christ and His gospel. I really feel like we have done some really good work together. I felt the Spirit so strong in our lessons, with the members, while we were planning. We figured out how the Spirit speaks with us, and were able to teach effectively. She was the perfect trainer...I learned exactly what I needed to at the beginning of my mission, through her help. She is so humble...definitely an example for me in my life. I am so grateful for the time I have had here with her. 

There is always so much I want to say, but never enough time to say it all. OH! One more thing! Dimas, our recent convert is AMAZING! We had an activity last Monday, cooking things over a fire, (they had NEVER heard of cooking hot dogs on a stick, or anything on a stick. It was sooo fun! :D) and he wanted to go. He lives pretty far away, and the transportation is expensive for student without a job. We didn´t expect to see him, but he came! We asked him how he got there, and smiling, he excitedly told us that he sold a pair of pants to pay for the bus. 

I try every day to be more like this, to be willing to do anything to be closer to the Savior, to learn more about how to become like Him. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be here and to learn more about every facet of my life, now and in the future.

Also, if you haven´t watched the Christmas Devotional, you should. Its beautiful, and the music-well...you know my opinion on that! 

I love you all! Have an amazing week! I know that I will!! 

Con amor, Hermana Scott

Pumpkin Pie! Oh My!

 Celebrating Mother's Day in Panama!

                                                    

Somebody didn't want their picture taken!  ;)

Baptism Day!            

Returning Missionary/Birthday Celebration! 

Birthday complete with confetti!        

Jessica's 21st Birthday in Panama!!! - Week of 12/2/13

Well I really want to send pictures...but it's not working. :( Just when I have several to share! Jaja. We had an amazing week...its always amazing...whether the amazement is the level of craziness that occurs, or the beautiful moments that we experience. Its all a wonderful ball of happiness and work. I can´t believe that I have been a missionary for almost four months.

So. We had a baptism this Saturday! There were three altogether, and I am so happy for each and every one of them. The baptismal service was beautiful...I of course teared up. In moments like that, my spirit is so alive, I can´t help it. Our purpose here is to invite others to come unto Christ...and it's such a wonderful feeling when you see that they´ve received your invitation.

Also, the first ever missionary to leave from Las Tablas returned last week...and we had a party to welcome her after the baptism. Also, to celebrate my birthday. Yeah, they made a cake with my name on it and everything! And if you´re wondering if we had a piñata...you bet we did! Did it have blonde hair and blue eyes? Of course it did! Did they sing Happy Birthday in English just for me? Of course! Was I showered with confetti, cards, and the best handshakes from guys and hugs from the girls ever? Of course I was! This branch is amazing...they were so excited to share in the day with me. And I couldn´t have been happier with a different way to celebrate...with three baptisms, and being surrounded with happy followers of Christ. I am so grateful to be here.

Ah! I am running out of time! I am so happy...and thanks to all who wished me a happy birthday! I am so blessed.

Until next week!!

Hna. Scott

A little side note to me (mom): Breathe, know that your daughter is perfectly sweaty, tan, and happy here in Panama. Don´t worry! The Lord is taking care of me, I have an amazing family here in the branch...I was seriously taken care of on my birthday. Heavenly Father has placed me in the lives of very loving people. Just keep telling me what is going on at home, and sending pictures. That´s all I need! And occasionally music, jaja. I love you guys so much!

(She knows I worry.  I can't believe she's the same kid!  Sweaty, tan and happy.... wow!  I love my baby girl!)

The Best Way to Spend A 21st Birthday Coming Up!!!

Okay! I have so many wonderful things to say, and not much time to say them. 

First of all. 18 months isn´t long enough. Second of all...how is it almost December? That means I have been out almost 4 months....and that is a crazy scary thought. Also, its not cold here. Its a very odd thing. 

So yesterday was incredible. We hit 51 in assistencia in Sacrament Meeting yesterday! We just keep growing! Also...my companion and I are looking forward to this Saturday...along with several others...because there will be two baptisms. Two very precious souls are going to have one of the best experiences of their lives. We have had such an incredible experience teaching both of them...I know that they are ready. I have learned so much about the love that Heavenly Father and the Savior has for their family...I can feel it too. When we had an activity on Saturday, listening to one of them talk about how ¨This church answers all the questions that no other church could.¨ And that's true! It was such a beautiful thing to hear, because every day, that is something I am learning more and more about for myself. So, I will have the best birthday ever, because after the baptism, there is going to be a big, ¨Welcome Home!¨ for the first returned missionary of Las Tablas, Hna. Lanza! There will be music, comida, and lots of happy things. I am so excited about the work here...We are doing so much with the members, and its making an incredible difference. 

Also, Hna. Rodas, Hna. Holland, Hna. Maldonado and I are got to meet the sister of Maria, a friend of my aunt and uncle. We have missionary district meetings every Tuesday morning in Chitre, at the church. We called Maria´s sister Sunday, to say we had a book and some pictures for her, and she was excited to meet us. We asked her where we could meet with her, and it turns out, she lives really close to the church! She came, and we showed her the church, asked a little bit about her family, and later went to her house and taught a lesson. The Spirit was so strong in the lesson...I am not sure how things are going with her right now, because she is in Hna. Holland and Hna. Maldonado´s area...but I will hear more tomorrow! The work is great, and I love that I have the opportunity to do all that I can to invite others to come unto Christ. 

Well, I am running out of time...but I hope every one is doing well. Eat lots of food for me! 

I say it every week, but I truly love this work. I love my Savior and my Heavenly Father, and I am grateful for the opportunity to bare my testimony of this each and every day. 

Hna. Scott 

 Hermana Scott and Herman Lopez

My baby wishing us all a Happy American Traditional Holiday!

First Choir Presentation of 'Scripture Power' - Piano Lessons - Becoming closer and closer to Christ - Week of 11/18/13

Every week I feel like I couldn´t be happier, couldn´t learn more, couldn´t feel more. But the Lord proves me wrong every time. I love what I am doing! Sometimes I don´t have the best day...sometimes I totally blank in a lesson, and don´t know what to say...but its such an amazing experience. I love where I am. I am learning more about doing the work of the Lord and not focusing on myself. 

One beautiful thing...we had our first choir presentation EVER in Las Tablas yesterday! Maybe half the choir stayed in their seats because they were too nervous, maybe they started off nearly silent...but it was such a happy experience. They were all smiling, happy, and the congregation kept saying how beautiful it was afterwards...of course it wasn´t perfect. Of course this missionary kept messing up chords on our dusty keyboard. Obviously we didn´t have anything but accidental crescendos...but it was in fact beautiful. The Spirit was so strong, and after church, every one was asking what our next song would be, and the members of the choir were nearly jumping up and down, saying, "We did it! We did it!" Music is such a powerful way to share your feelings, and express praise to the Lord...I am so happy that we have begun the process of really implementing music here in this branch. Our piano class is still doing really well, and I love our students. Its amazing when one of them marches up to the keyboard and plays a song with minimal mistakes, and the look on their face when they have realized it was them that produced that sound...its a blessing to witness. 

We have realized our work here in largely working with less active members of the church. Yesterday we had five! It was so cool to see everyone hugging each other, smiling and laughing, welcoming back siblings that have been missed. The way I felt I imagine was the tiniest portion of how our Heavenly Father and Savior feel when they see us strive to become closer to Them. That truly is a lifetime goal. Become closer to Christ, and help those around you do the same. A friend once told me that its important to stand on solid ground before you can help pull someone out of the hole. Strive, and in the process of striving, share your light with those around you. Love, share, be charitable...reach out to those who can´t quite walk on your own. If you need help, take the help of those around you...lean on the Savior. Pray in His name, asking for guidance and peace. I promise as you do so in faith, you will feel His arms around you, encouraging you to go on. He only wants happiness for you, He and our Father in Heaven don´t want to see us struggle...I know that when our pathway is centered on Christ, we are more at peace and can better see the road ahead. 

Thank you for being there...Mom, thank for you teaching us the basic principles of following Christ at a young age. Thanks primary leaders for teaching me Scripture Power (the song we sang yesterday) that still influences my footsteps today. Remember, little actions turn into your pathway through life. 

I love you all! Have an amazing week! 

Con amor,

She didn't attach an explanation of this picture, but missionaries perform service wherever needed. Tile work of some sort maybe? ;)

This week...Short letter with some Panama experiences! Week of 11/11/13

I didn´t have much time today, but I want to share a scripture. Mosiah 4:27: ¨And see that all these things are done in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that a man should run faster than he has strength. And again, it is expedient that that he should be diligent, that thereby he might win the prize; therefore, all things must be done in order.¨ This scripture teaches us to have patience with ourselves...its definitely something I struggle with. We must work, but work with diligence, and in pace with our capabilities, pushing ourselves enough everyday that we can be a little bit better every day, but not so much that your goal seems impossible. With smaller goals comes the accomplishment of a larger goal. You can do it!

I love you guys! Enjoy the pictures! I will try to write more next week. Thank you so much for your support and prayers...I can feel them with every step.

Con amor,

Hna. Scott

First, our piano class! This is such an awesome part of my every week.

                                        Second, One of those long walks down beautiful roads.

                              It is so pretty here. This is out the back door at a member´s home.                                                                                                  

Part of the festivities this week. It was Independence for all! Literally, I think people were off work maybe four days. Lots of parades and cool things. Just look up November 8: Las Tablas. :)

A girl in ¨el tipico¨, the traditional clothing of Panama. Way expensive. The cool things in her hair? Tembleces. I have worn some! 

Through Trials and Faith - Week of 11-14-2013

So I have been having crazy adventures with the internet. Because it is a holiday here, everything is closed. EEk! So, we had to make some phone calls, and find some computers, And here we are. 

First of all, I have a quote from a really cool apostle of the Lord by the name of Dieter F. Uchtdorf, ''...with Christ, darkness cannot succeed. Darkness will not gain victory over the light of Christ...even after the darkest night, the Savior of the world will lead you to a gradual, sweet, and bright dawn that will assuredly rise within you{'. Every week that I am here, I learn more and more about how true that statement is. Sometimes, we all face hard days. It sometimes seems impossible to shake your head from dark clouds. There are moments when I feel as though I am driving through a torrential storm, and as high as the windshield wipers are going, I can't seem to shake enough water off the glass to see. Moments like there are when we are reminded to truly see a clearer path ahead, we must rely on our Savior, Jesus Christ. One very touching story about relying on our brother, and admitting we do need His help is in Mark 9 22 through 24. This is when Jesus comes across a situation of contention between a group of people and His disciples. When asking what was going on, He is approached by a father carrying an afflicted child. ''If thou canst do anything'' he pleaded, ''have compassion on us, and help us. Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible unto those that believeth. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord I believe. Help thou mine unbelief.'' This story truly touches my soul...In the presence of Jesus Christ, this worrisome father admitted his unbelief.

When trials come, our faith is often tested. But what I have learned is that if we have a desire to believe, and pray to our Heavenly Father in the name of Jesus Chirst, asking for help, He will answer us. Many moments have found me on my knees, asking for guidance, asking for help, asking for ways to improve my faith. The beautiful thing is, faith is not having a perfect knowledge of things [Alma 32). If that were true, who would truly be capable of obtaining faith? We can only truly be at peace and clear when we ask in faith. One pearl of knowledge that I have gained are these words from my companion: ‘’If you pray with faith, and you know that Heavenly Father knows you can do it, and Christ knows you can do it, then why not just do it?’’ One of the hardest parts about relying on the Lord is acting on our faith. Praying for guidance and then getting up and walking. It may be fearsome at times, but I know that it works.

Just about two weeks ago, my companion and I had an experience with acting on faith. We were walking in Las Tablas, having just been told that a scheduled appointment was cancelled, we were looking for something to do. Hna. Rodas later told me that as we were walking, she offered a silent prayer, ‘’Heavenly Father, please guide us.’’ Right after, she felt prompted to walk down a street we never had before. We ended up finding Lorena. When introducing ourselves, she finished the introduction for us. Turns out, she is a member of the church! She was baptized at 15, and when moving with her family here to Las Tablas, they lost contact with the church. It had been 25 years since she had gone to church. She joyfully showed us her dusty Book of Mormon and Himnario. The next day, she was 15 minutes early to the baptism, with newly dusted off Book of Mormon in hand. In a later lesson, she told us that she was grateful for us, because she had been praying for a change in her life…and we came knocking on her door.

I know that Heavenly Father is there, and that He is always listening. It is so important to rely on Him and our Savior. When I pray, I picture that He is there with me, along with our brother, His Son, patiently listened, having a desire to hear what I have to say. I liken it to talking to my dad, calling him on the phone when I need help, have something exciting to say, or simply want to express my gratitude.

Even if your flame of faith seems small, remember this: ‘’Even if ye can no more than desire to believe, let this desire work in you, even until ye believe.’’ {Alma 32 27)

Con amor, Hna. Jessica Scott

PS…Listen to the hymn, ‘’Master, The Tempest Is Raging’’…my companion and I were singing this in the morning, and its what fueled the words to this letter. 

Happy! Happy! Happy! Week of 10/28/13

So. I have way too many things to say. I am overwhelmed with gratitude and a ridiculous amount of joy. I am just so happy. 

First of all. I AM STAYING HERE. Changes are this Wednesday, and our Zone Leader called us last night, to inform my Hna. Rodas and I that we are staying here in Las Tablas! I thought we would, but I was terrified that I wasn´t going to be able to. I feel like we have so much more work to do here. 

Second of all. My first baptism was Saturday!!! She is a wonderful, super spiritual nine year old whose dad was inactive until a few weeks ago. They came to church last week, and at the end of the meetings, she and dad came up to us, and she said she wanted to be baptized. So, we taught her a lesson right then and there. Her dad is an incredible human being. He was basically an unofficial missionary here in Las Tablas. Back before there was a branch here, he talked with friends, preached the gospel of Jesus Christ, and even baptized many of them. But they were all traveling really far to get to church in Chitre. So. this hermano wrote a letter to the mission president at the time, asking about opening a branch here in Las Tablas, where there has been one for about ten years. In the past week, he has helped us so much, and we have been really productive in working with him. He has a beautiful testimony. When he shared it with us at his daughter´s baptism, there was not a single dry eye. One of the things he said was that he was grateful for the opportunity to return to the church. He was grateful for the process of repentance and forgiveness from our Savior and Heavenly Father. I too am gaining a testimony of that very principle and so many others. Heavenly Father and our Savior truly do love us, and only want the best for us. I am so happy to be learning more about their role in our lives every day. 

Also. We have started Visiting Teaching and Home Teaching in the branch! We talked with our branch missionary leader last week, pouring over the names of the members, organizing who could work with who (because very few people have cars) and who they needed to go visit. When it was announced in church yesterday, everyone was excited, and jumped up to get the paper with the list of names. Its so important to visit with people, our church family, and our friends and family in general...I think this is going to make a huge difference here. We are so close to an attendance of 50! Soo close. 

The unity here is beautiful. For example, when we called our branch president Friday to confirm the baptism for Saturday, we were worried about how many people who would be there to support our awesome nine year old friend. There was an activity for the members in Chitre that afternoon, and the baptism was scheduled to start two hours after the end of the activity. However, by car, by bus, by bike, by foot...these members came. Most of our branch was there, smiling and happy...I nearly cried when I saw everyone come in. These people truly do have such a strong testimony of the role of Jesus Christ in their lives. The baptism was beautiful. I gave my first talk completely in Spanish! I am finally starting to feel more comfortable with the language. Often, I think of a word in Spanish before I think of it in English. Its such a cool process. Frustrating sometimes, but cool. 

Also, about unity. We have a young couple here who have a beautiful little girl who is sick. Her mom came up to us at the end of one of the classes yesterday, explained a little bit of what was happening, and then simply asked us to keep her in our prayers. Instantly, someone said, ¨Why don´t we fast as a branch?¨ Another, "Why not tomorrow?¨ And within a minute, it was decided as a ward we would have a special fast for this precious daughter of God. Some people decided to start right in that moment. Every moment I spend with these people is a treasure. I love what I am learning. 

I am so happy to be learning more about our Savior, Jesus Christ, each and every day. I know that the power of repentance and forgiveness is real. I know that He and our Heavenly Father truly love us. I know that He listens to each and every prayer, and that He will help us if only we ask. I know that all things are possible through our Savior, Jesus Christ. I may have hard days, but He is always walking beside me, helping my companion and I find those who need to hear comforting words about their Savior and Heavenly Father. I am so incredibly blessed. 

 

I have so many more things to say...but the most important thing to say is that I know that our Savior lives. I know that through acting in faith, we will recieve blessings, blessings that our Heavenly Father is more than willing to give us. I know that He knows each and every one of us. I am so blessed. I am so grateful for my family, and for the example that they have been for me. I am learning so much about how to conduct the rest of my life...life is such a beautiful process. 

See you next week!

Con amor,  Hma. Scott

Picture with their Zone Leader & his companion.

 Their second baptism. 

Dancing, Singing, Music and Blessings.... Week of 10-21-13

I am sitting here, having the desire to just get up and dance, because I am simply just that excited to be here. I have already been here in Las Tablas for a month. Changes are next week (I REFUSE to leave!) and I can´t believe it has gone by that fast. Hna. Rodas and I were on the bus the other night, and I looked to her and said, ¨What am I going to do when I go home?¨ Life before my mission seems so fuzzy right now...and life after...well I don´t want to think about it. I have awhile before I have to worry about it, jaja. Life here is so many things. Its full of laughter, wringing out soaked skirts due to the rain, falling asleep during morning prayers, getting locked out of our house, getting stuck on a bus, eating a RIDICULOUS amount of rice...but then its full of other moments. Singing with an investigor, seeing them cry and thank us for the words of ¨Yo Se Que Vive Mi Señor¨, teaching a piano class and seeing our students´eyes light up with the play something right, having someone tell us that that we are teaching them things they have been searching for, hearing the testimonies of the members here. So many precious moments...its a beautiful experience. Not all moments are the best, but the good definitely outweighs the bad. I wouldn´t trade it for anything. Sometimes its hard, when I start to think about events I am missing, people I love that I haven´t seen for awhile...but I know that its okay. I was sent here to Panama specifically to share the plan of happiness and the gospel of Jesus Christ with people who may have never heard of it otherwise. I have the opportunity to see my family and friends in such a short while...I feel like I have so much work to do before then. Work that I am more than excited to go and do. 

So. Cool experience! Our Distrito (group of missionaries in areas around Chitre...there are 12 of us, I think) made a goal to look for escogidos (chosen) every week with the specific goal to invite them to baptized the following weekend. Its really great, because it gives us such a motivation to work and seek for those who are prepared. The meeting in which we discussed this idea was Tuesday. On the bus back to Las Tablas, Hna. Holland (yeah, they are two of us ¨General Authority¨ Hermanas here, haha) handed me a reference, and I stuck in my agenda. Later after lunch, Hna. Rodas and I were looking for exactly where we wanted to go. We had appoinments a little later in the afternoon, and had some time to make visits, or simply contact. We were walking down the road, and I remembered the reference from Hna. Holland. We made the phone call, and it ended up being this 21 year enthusiastic girl from the bus! She told us she wanted to learn more, and gave us her address...which happened to be in the same road we were already on. Of course. We found her, and she said she had actually seen us before. We had sat on the same bus before, only she had had headphones on...so we didn´t get around to talk to her. We had talked to a guy on the other side of us, telling him who we were, a little about the church, and that was it. Just a simple contact that didn´t go any further than just that. Or so we thought. She remembered what we had talked to man about, because she was listening, and was interested. We taught her three lessons last week, and she seems to be retaining everything, and likes what we have to share with her. Sometimes guys, life is just so wonderfully fantastic. (I am losing expressive words in English...lo siento, jaja) 

Another thing! Yesterday in church, my back started to spasm really bad, and I started crying without being able to control it. The branch president´s wife asked if I wanted a blessing, and I couldn´t even really answer. Less than 10 seconds later, President was at my side, gesturing me to follow. He and a member in the presidency gave me a blessing, and my back pains subsided. For the rest of the day, in every prayer that I was given, I heard the words of asking for the health of ¨Hermanita Scott¨. All day, members were coming up to me and asking me how I was doing. They are so loving, and truly care about us. Many of them have started to say tiny phrases in English, como, ¨Good Morning!¨ or ¨See you Thursday!¨ Its so awesome. I love them all so much. Hna. Rodas and I started the first Las Tablas choir ever last week, and both times, we have had about 20 people stay and work hard the entire practice. They are such a wonderful, supportive group of people...Hna. Rodas and I bore our testimonies at the end of the practice yesterday, and there wasn´t a dry eye in the room. Their belief is so strong, and they strengthen me each and every day. They are such examples for me...I couldn´t ask for a better first area. It doesn´t matter that our church is a house. It doesn´t matter that our attendance was 35 yesterday. The Spirit of the Lord dwells wherever His people gather. I truly believe that. I have a testimony of this gospel. I feel the love that the Lord has for His children. I love everyone here. I have such a desire to tell everyone that He knows everyone, that He loves everyone, and that He and our Heavenly Father are always there, always listening. 

I love you all. I hope this week has been going well. Keep it up! I will write again in another week! 

Con amor,

Hna. Scott 

My Life This Week! ~ 10/14/13 ~

Each day I settle more into the life of a missionary...every day has something new to learn, but I am getting a better grasp on just realizing that, and continuing on.

Something cool this week...we were eating lunch at a member´s home. At the end of every meal with members, we share a brief message with them. I was put in charge of that, jaja. For some reason, I was having a hard time getting started. I read the scripture I had chosen (1 Nefi 17:12, I think) and then my companion looked at me, waiting for me to share how I felt. I was silent. Hna. Dianna, looked at me and said, Hna. Scott, how do you feel about this scripture? I looked at her, and slowly began to share my testimony. I talked for awhile. When I finished, she smiled and said, ¨I love when you guys speak (people from the US) because when you talk, you are talking through the Spirit. Those words come from your heart. I know you don´t know much Español...but I understood and felt every word.¨ That was so encouraging for me, because it is hard a lot of the time. I have so much I want to share...but I have to be patient with myself. I can´t learn every word in Español in one day...it takes effort, diligence, and a desire to work hard. When I step back, I know that I have learned a lot already.

One day last week, Hna. Escobar y yo had to go to Panama for paper work reasons. I wasn´t in trouble, jaja...its a routine thing in the mission. The bus ride from Las Tablas to Panama is about 4 hours. Hna. Escobar doesn´t speak or understand English. But...somehow...we talked most of the way. We are better friends now after that day. Its amazing how much I really can communicate with others if only I open my mouth. Life is fast here, but its beautiful. I am learning so much.

Sorry that the letter again this week is on the short side. Just now that I am loving the work...and I am growing closer to our Heavenly Father every single minute. I have such a testimony of prayer. I know that it works. 

Ask and ye shall find. Knock, and the door will be opened unto you.  

Con amor, Hermana Scott

Our Investigator, Lasko jaja!  He is very patient with me and my Espanol.  He always listens, and cools me off when I am a little heated.  ;)

Making dinner at a member's home!  They bought papas (potatoes) specifically because I said I love them!  The Frias' are great!

On one of those days we got lost (Hint...that was almost every day this week, jaja!) So we took an opportunity to take a picture.  I feel like a superhero with my pose in this picture, jaja.  Your poses for the camera change so much as a missionary!

Holey Umbrella and General Conference in English From Panama - Week of: 10-7-13 -

This week´s post is going to be kind of short...I apologize in advance. So. General Conference. I have never been so inspired and eager to hear more before. The Sunday morning session was absolutely beautiful. I am so grateful for the incredible blessing we have of a latter day prophet, apostles, and general authority who seek counsel of the Lord to share with us precious words of wisdom and comfort. I got to watch it in English, which was a blessing in and of itself. I also become ridiculously excited when there was footage of my home away from home, el Mexico CCM! Wasn´t it beautiful? I encourage you to watch parts of General Conference when it shows up on lds.org...one of more talks will undoubtedly apply to you, whether you are a member of the church or not. The general authorities recieve counsel that applies to every single living person, not just those who are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Just the same as Heavenly Father truly loves all of His children, not just those who are going to church on Sunday. As each day comes to a close, I am filled with more and more love for God´s children, por mi hermanos. I am becoming more humbled through each new situation, become less and less embarrassed as the role of a missionary truly settles in, and feel the love of my Savior more and more as I turn to Him, the Holy Ghost, and our Heavenly Father for guidance. I am filled with hope, charity, and love as I go through my day. Not every moment is perfect...I used an umbrella with holes in it last week. But each piece of every day calculates into what is truly a life changing experience. I am learning so much about myself, how much I am capable of, how much power I have through the Savior. I am learning more about people, families, the simple pleasures in life, and the joys of meeting new people and sharing the message of Jesus Christ. I am so blessed. There are so many things I want to say to back up these things that I am saying...but I truly am blessed. I know that the message we share every day is true. I know that we have a Heavenly Father who loves us. I am so happy to have this knowledge to share with others. As of last night, my companion and I have 19 people who have a desire to be baptized...and I know its not because of us. Its because of the Spirit manifesting the truth of our Savior´s love, and our Heavenly Father´s love and watchful eye.

Guys, 18 months just isn´t long enough.

 

Con amor, Hna. Scott

 Hermana Rodas and Hermana Scott

 Cute!  Not sure who he is, but I love the                                             accordian!

Hermana Scott watching General Conference in English!  ;)

My Life On His Time

  Town Square -  Las Tablas, Panama 

Hello friends!

 

This week has been so many things! I already feel as though I´ve been here for months...although I still don´t know much of anything...no matter how many times I have walked around the square, I want to go the wrong direction to head home every evening. Jaja, its an adventure for sure. Time on the computer seems even shorter here, I am sorry I am not able to reach all of you personally! I would like to write letters in my spare 2 and a half minutes a night...so send addresses please!

 

Okay, so a few brief really cool things. First of, a random happenstance. I believe most of the coolest things in a missionary´s life happen by accident. One day, Hna. Rodas and I were lost...that happens sometimes. It was hot, and there was a house to our left with the door open, so we thought, why not? We went to go say hi, started to introduce ourselves, and the girl at the door got really excited at went to grab something. Turns out, the missionaries had come knocking on their door once before, when she was around 10. She is 22 now. Her whole family loved the missionaries, but none of them progressed to baptism. We ended up teaching a lesson, and she wanted to be baptized. Way cool! Two days later (I think?) we came back and taught a lesson with five members of her family, who also all agreed to a baptism date. I already love this family so dearly, and we have known them for about a week and a half. A week and a half in missionary time though seems like a month. So yeah! We are currently teaching them the lessons in hopes that they feel the truth for themselves.

 

Sometimes, however, there are people who aren´t prepared to hear the message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, or aren´t ready to see it as truth. We are all at different stages of our lives, and I am happy to state that one of our beliefs in our church is to allow people to worship how, who, and what they may (Articles of Faith). However, we share our message whenever we can, just in case that person is ready. Something that I realized the other day is that is not our sole purpose, to teach the message only to those that are prepared. We were having a rough day...we got lost for three hours, no one was really very receptive to the message, and I was getting rather discouraged. We knocked on the door of what turned out to be an eldery couple. The woman was sick, but she and her husband came out to the porch with us to listen. We ended up having a simple and brief conversation about exercising our faith in Jesus Christ, and acting on that faith.As we walked away, I realized that we were there simply to help them feel more at ease, and help them feel our Heavenly Father´s love for them. In that moment, I learned about another piece of my purpose.

 

Also, sometimes, very often, random things happen that just can´t be explained. Hna. Rodas and I were in a lesson, and we noticed photos of a young married couple on the table. She asked a few brief questions and  then the conversation went on. As we left, I said, ¨This is going to sound crazy, but I feel like I know that couple. Especially her son (this was explained within the conversation)¨ She looked at me, and said, ¨I was going to say the SAME THING.¨ I have no idea why we both recognized the same person, but I have a feeling that completely unexplainable moments like that will occur quite often.

 

Another thing...specific prayers work. They really do. I was miserably hot the first few days...just felt gross. Hna. Rodas told me she used to have the same problem (she has been out six months) but now she prays specfically to not feel like she is burning up, and she doesn´t! So I decided to try it. Every day, I add that into my prayers...and guess what? I may be covered in sweat, but I don´t feel hot. Its the weirdest thing. People all around us are blasting fans and complaining about the heat, but my companion and I? We don´t even use a fan at night. I truly believe that through faith in Jesus Christ, ALL things are possible...even changing how you feel. My body may still be reacting to the heat, but my mind is simply focused on other things. Yeah, I can hear my mom saying, ¨Mind over matter!¨...guys, she really knew what she was talking about.

 

Well, I think that is all from me this week. I nearly had a panic attack when the computer shut down on me last week. I still don´t have many pictures..I will get around to it. That is probably for the best, because on Sunday, when I put a little makeup on, everyone was calling me angel. Jaja. My green eyes and blonde hair still make me stand out though. This one little girl in one of our investigating families came right up to me and started laughing...I love kids.

 

Keep being amazing family and friends! I may not know the language, but I love where I am. These people are so special...and I feel it an honor to live here for a small part of my life.

 

Con amor, Hna. Scott

 

Also! General Conference is this weekend. Listen to some beautiful and heart warming talks by some of the most incredible people in the world! I love you guys

A Sweater Pillow to Rest Her Sweaty Head - Week of: 9-23-13

So, I have to start paying for being on the internet...and I don´t really want to go over an hour. I shall do my best to tell you what I can in the minutes that I have left. I am in Panama! Today is day 50 for being on a mission. What in the world! I can´t tell you how refreshing it is to be on a computer...and in air conditioning, jaja. When people said it was hot in Panama, they weren´t kidding. I don´t even know where my make up is. Also my pillow is made up of totally useless sweaters in a pillowcase. But by the time I lay down at night, its pretty much the best thing in the world. I am in Las Tablas...and my companion and I opened up a new area! I feel blessed...and feel an incredible sense of responsibility. We have a lot of work to do. We live in the same casa as two otro hermanas, but they have a different area, and they´ve only been here for six weeks! The rama aqui is so small. On average, they have about 35 people in sacarment meeting. We meet in a house here in town, right in the square. The rama here is pretty strong, they just really need us for encouragement. Oh! My companion´s name is Hna. Rodas, and she just hit her six month mark. This is only her second area, and already her second time training. When I had my interview with Pres. Carmack (Mission pres.) he said she was a very hard worker, and he thought that we would do really well together. I can already agree with that. We have not stopped since we got here. I haven´t even fully unpacked! We still have to go buy tables, so we have been studying on the floor...which isn´t the best because at 8 in the morning, the cold floor is really comfortable, and I find myself dreaming that I am back at el CCM, jaja. Hna. Rodas is a great companion, and we get along really well. She is a cellist..which makes me the happiest person alive, because if the language barrier hits really hard, we can always communicate through music. She actually knows quite a bit of English, which is such a relief. Its really hard sometimes to go hours without knowing what is going on. Seriously, the four of us will be walking down a road for thirty minutes, and then we walk into someone´s yard..and all I can do is follow! The people here are wonderful and always willing to help me out. I think I am actually going to be teaching an Ingles class. Possibly Piano too. Jaja, when we came in on Sunday, the members were so happy, that one Hermana jumped up, showed us where the keyboard was, and pratically pushed us over to it. I miss a lot of information, but I don´t think they´ve had a pianist in years, if ever. This past week has been a glorious struggle. I´m gaining knowledge and blisters. I am feeling very humbled. This morning was quite an adventure...I had to wash laundry by hand. But not to worry, we do have running water, and an indoor bathroom. Never have I been so grateful for a cold shower. Ja! Today we had Kraft macaroni and cheese, and never have I been so happy to eat powdered cheese. You really do become grateful for the small things. 

I don´t really have pictures this week either...haven´t had time to take them! Also, we are in a tourist area because of the beach...I think there is one like 10 minutes away in a bus. Its technically in our area..I am sure there must be someone near the ocean that needs to meet us. 

Also, something that is hilarious is that I am kind of a celebrity here. Being pale and blonde really makes you stand out. I hear people on the street say "Gringa!¨all the time. So I just stop and say, ¨Buenas!" and we tell them who we are. Its kind of funny, because people will stop and listen to us, so they can hear me talk. Jaja, it seriously is the weirdest thing ever to stand out this much. I am so grateful for the nametag though. Its rough, but I am grateful for the opportunity. We have already had lessons with many people, and there is one family that I love very much. I wish I could say more, but I am running out of time. I love you all very much, and I just want you to know that its beautiful here, and although I am always covered in sweat, I have a smile on my face, because I know that the work I am doing is exactly right. 

Con amor,

Hna. Scott

Jessica Leaving Mexico and off to Panama! - Week of 9-17-13

WARNING. This is going to be a bit scatter-brained, I`m afraid. Not much sleep was had last night. Too much crazy missionary business, you know.

 

 

I am going to miss el CCM so much. I can`t believe the family that I have gained while being here. We had a testimony meeting last night, before everyone started to leave...and it was so emotional. Every one of us feels such love for every one. Hermana Moore, Hermana Peterson, and Elder Gilles left early this morning...I was so tired when walking them to the bus, that I forgot my nametag.. Oops. It was 2:50 am though, so not many people were out and about. Elder Stone, Fonoimoana, and Draper just left over an hour ago. Guys...this is rough. I truly believe what people say about having a hard time leaving people on your mission. I am so excited for all of us though...We are all heading out into the world, ready to serve... Its going to be such an incredible experience. I`ve technically been out for six weeks, approaching seven (WHAT?!) but I really haven`t started yet. This is real. No more teachers, no more el comedor...I truly have to learn to always rely on the Lord.

 

I am just itching to go. I know I have a lot to learn, but I have been so blessed with incredible teachers and peers that have all helped me to base a foundation upon which I will continue to cultivate spiritual strengths. I have full confidence that hardships that I face will be moments that will help me become better, be more successful. I have already obtained the beginning of many atrributes needed to be successful as a missionary, and later on in life as well. I have gained more confidence in myself, in my Savior and Heavenly Father, and the truthfulness of the gospel. I have had many a fantastic opportunity to study, to become more scripturally knowledgeable...to strengthen my relationship with my Heavenly Father. Sure, I am nervous about moving to another country...again. Paro, I know that if I rely on the Lord, ask for help, and go forward with faith, I will be provided with all things necessary to be spiritually uplifted and physically able.

 

One quick beautiful thing! Our investigator, Marco, went to church on Sunday with Hermana Bair (I think I spelled it wrong in the previous email...English is truly going out the window, guys). She said he was there a half hour early, ready to go. He loved Gospel Principles class, and was engaged the entire time. He said he can`t wait to watch General Conference, and he wants to bring his mom to church with him next week. Again I ask myself, is this wonderful person for real?! Apparently so...I have seen him a couple times, and other people have too. I am so happy for Marco...and I feel so blessed to have met him. Hermana Bair plans on keeping us updated with how he is doing.

 

I am also so happy that I am able to experience life in this culture. This week has been all about Independence of Mexico...the food, the flags, the smiling faces of everyone...Saturday night, we had a culture night. We watched a beautiful video that made me cry, watched a dance troup that brought me to my feet, and one of my teachers was in the color guard, calling the orders. It was so cool to watch him in action. He is a dancer too, and a fantastic one, but he wasn`t in the troup, jaja. Saturday night just made me feel so patriotic. Our wonderful Latino friends were shouting "¡Viva la Mexico!", waving flags, whistling and cheering...I was just in awe the entire time. The culture is so rich down here, and there is so much pride in heritage. Its a beautiful thing to behold, that`s for sure. I have pictures, but my camera cord is back at the casa, jaja. I`ll have to send some eventually.

Last night, we watched an event that I cannot remember the name of for some reason...maybe because its hard to pronounce...but anyway, at 11 pm (Yeah, we were up LATE. It was weired to be out of my house past 9:45) on the 15th of September, the President of Mexico comes out onto the balcony of this building in the center of Mexico City, with the flag, and rings a bell. He shouts out the sames of several significant men who fought for independence.  Then there are fireworks. Lots of fireworks. We were watching a broadcast, but it was only 30 minutes away from here, so when walking home, we could see and hear the spectacle continuing on. It was such a neat experience. I am so grateful to get to experience other cultures... I was tearfully saying goodbye to one of teachers, telling him how much I love Mexico, and he said that I should just make it my home.

I have this heavy feeling that I will feel 69437474984 times more strongly about Panama when I get used to being there. These people are truly just so beautiful...so open and welcoming.

 

This truly is a marvelous work and wonder that I am taking part of. I was born upon this earth in a fantastic era...one in which religious freedom is more widely accepted, a time when sharing beliefs is done more efficiently than ever before. I am young in a time when I am able to do unheard of things, like living in Mexico and Panama for 18 months. I have to overwhelmingly blessed opportunity to go forth, meet Heavenly Father`s children, and share the message of Jesus Christ with everyone and that is prepared to hear. I am filled with so much gratitude.

 

Here I go, into another chapter of this beautiful story. I can`t wait.

 

Con amor,

Hermana Jessica Scott 

 

 Them goofy Elders...

The Zone.

 What a stud.

The District

The way Elders say goodye! 

- Recovered Lost Bag and Bus Driver Part 2 - Week of 9-12-13

Guys.. I am moving to Panama in just a few days. We don`t get our flight information until Saturday...but I think I am leaving Tuesday. We shall see! Its been six weeks...where in the world did the time go? Its a beautiful yet terrifying fact that time goes by so quickly. The wonderful best friends that I have made here...I have to say goodbye. People have said leaving areas in your mission is harder than leaving home...and I am starting to believe that. I am going to ball when I have to say goodbye. But most of you guys already know that I cry about everything...my family here understands that now too. Its completely warranted though! I have been spending nearly every waking moment with the same 11 people for six weeks...they truly are my family. We have all been here together, supporting one another through the very beginning of our missionary adventures...we have all been through some amazing times together, laughed a lot, had some tense moments, exchanged some very "missionary-esque" smack-talk during our nearly daily volleyball games...and now we have to go our many separate ways throughout the world. Literally, throughout the world. How fantastically intense is it that our Heavenly Father trusts us, 18 to 20-something year olds to go throughout the world and share His love? Every day, I am still taken aback by what I am actually doing. I am not completely clear of that path that got me hear...but I am glad that this is where I am right now. My posts may begin to seem redundant, I say many of the same things, but they just prove to become more and more true each and every day!

 

By the way...two amazing things (among mucho mas) paso este past semana...

 

 

Numero Uno: I found my bag! I think Saturday was the day. I had such a hard time being patient and having faith that I would find it. But, pretty much within hours of me finally letting go, and having faith in Heavenly Father and my Savior...I discovered someone had put it in a safe place in the back of el Comodor. Heavenly Father wanted to help me learn a lesson of having faith and being patient in recieving answers to prayers. I am going to say it again, I am grateful for trials. I am able to learn more and more every time that a new stumbling block in placed in my path. I may be really frustrated in the moment...but in retrospect, I truly do know that things happen to help us grow. This is really one of the firsts times in my life however when I truly did feel at peace before my prayers were answered.

 

So. Remember how I said there better be an incredible blessing for someone due to my trial?

 

Numero Dos: We met Marco otra vez. Yep. Our incredible friend that we met two weeks ago? He came back!! Hna. Johnson and I were super later for breakfast Tuesday morning, and we ended up sitting at a completely different table than usual, facing a different way. We were just eating cereal, and then I saw a familiar face at the window...it was Marco. I jumped up, and we ran out the door to talk  to him, leaving our bags, food, and everything behind. (Some lesson that I learned right? Jaja) He was so happy to see us...and said that no missionaries had contacted him yet, which made me really sad. He said that he read what we asked him to. We asked him if he has been feeling any difference in his life since talking with us...and he said he noticed a huge change. When we told him that we were about to move to Panama, he began to cry, and said that he wanted us to teach him more. He then said that he would be back in the afternoon, and would love to talk with us again. We said a prayer with him, and said our goodbyes. Neither one of us could believe it! When we got back to the classroom, everyone was on fire with questions, because they saw us run out the door, and gathered what happened. They were all telling us to run and tell the President, jaja. Elder Stone sat in the windowsill starting at like 2, looking for Marco`s bus.

 

An Hermana  maestro, Hna. Bear, ended up going with us to help translate some of what he said. When we were looking for our teachers, we found her. She was so excited, and instantly offered our help. When we asked her what the best thing to teach him would be, she said, "I am simply going to be there with you guys to lend support..but as far as the lesson goes, you two are set apart to recieve revelation for investigators...I am no longer a full-time missionary." That hit me so hard... We said a quick prayer, and went out to talk with him. He was amazing. We went to go get chairs for us to just sit in the beautiful Mexico City weather, and he wouldnt let us get them...he carried them for us. I wish I had time to talk about everything that happened...but the important thing is, we spoke with him for an hour and 15 minutes...and I could tell you that I KNOW it was only maybe 30. The Spirit was so strong...there were moments when none of us could speak because we were so overwhelmed. He is going to go to church with the wonderful Hna. Bear on Sunday...I can`t wait to find out what he thought about it. Apparently, he said this within the conversation, after I told him that other missionaries will have the same beautiful message that we have...he said that he knew that we all taught the same things, but he felt such a connection with us, he felt he could tell us anything, that he didn`t want us to leave. He jokingly asked if we could just serve in Mexico, jaja. I would love to stay and teach him too...but I know there are specfic people I am supposed to meet in Panama.

At the end of our lesson, he prayed in front of other people for the first time. It was probably the most beautiful prayer I have ever heard.

He may stop by again on Sunday...I would love to see him one more time! Apparently, the first time that he came aqui, he switched with another bus driver...he wasnt actually supposed to drive here. He said he felt that God knew he needed to meet us. Its just...such an amazing thing to be a blessing in someone`s life...that we were the ones to introduce him the knowledge that he has a purpose in his life.

Another thing...that teacher was supposed to be going on a date right around the time we came in and found her...but it was cancelled. She ended up being able to come, strengthen the lesson, establish church, and invite him to go to church with her. Heavenly Father just prompted small things to happen to bring forth great things.

 

I am so grateful for the opportunity to have my eyes open, to see Heavenly Father`s hand so prevalent in my life. I am nervous to leave here...but I know that I am ready. I know that if I rely on the Spirit, and maintain and strengten my relationship with my Heavenly Father, I can truly do anything.

 

I love you all. Next time I talk to you, I will be in Panama!!

 

God Bless.  Hna. Jessica Scott

 

  Jessica's friends in her district.  

Beautiful daughters of God.

I love this picture!  Jessica's District.

Jessica at the Mexico City Temple

Jessica's District in front of the temple.