20 April 2010

[We got this “snail mail” letter from Taylor on Monday.]

Family,

So I’ve been writing this poem for the last couple of days. I meant to email it to you today, but I forgot. I’m obviously not a poet, but Elder Shular had a poem that his mom sent him about missionary work, and I thought I’d try it. The last several weeks have been pretty tough for me, which spawned this desire of mine.

Anyway, here it is:

My eyes flicker open, and I can tell by the light
The alarm soon will sound – “no, please, that cannot be right.”
But then, as expected, comes the unwelcome beep,
To crush any hope of going back to sleep.
I hear my companion grumble, then roll onto his knees.
I then do the same, and give my tired pleas:
“Lord, give me strength” is my silent prayer,
And then the same old morning – to study and prepare.
Again we’re on our knees, about to start our day,
We ask the Lord for guidance, to lead us on our way.
While walking to the car, we ponder where to go,
But we have nothing scheduled, so really, I don’t know.
This island is so small, we’ve been to every street.
They must be sick of us, each person that we meet.
Despite it all, we decide on where to start.
Again, a silent prayer, “Father, open up their hearts.”
Yet, “Go away, we’re busy” they all seem to say.
Plus, it’s hot and humid, but that’s like every other day.
Finally, it’s 9, and time to head for home –
“God, I prayed for help - but today I felt alone.”
We arrive, and plan, and then prepare for bed,
But a thought of sad discouragement is all that’s in my head.
Yet I still kneel down to offer today’s final prayer.
To my Heavenly Father I’ll tell my every care:
“Dear Father,” I begin “today was hard for me.
“How can we do better? Please help me see,
“I’ve been asked to learn a language, much different than my own;
“I don’t know if I can do it, at least not on my own.
“And what about my family, Lord, they’re all so far away.
“Please show them that I love them, and pray for them each day.”
As tears then fill my eyes, I end my silent prayer,
But I continue kneeling, and hope for an answer there.
Then before long, thoughts come to my mind.
Peace fills my heart, love of the sweetest kind.

John 14:18

“I will not leave you comfortless,” said the Savior to His friends,
“I will come to you,” this promise does not end.

Doctrine & Covenants 84:88

The Lord promised me His angels, to lift and bear me up.

Doctrine & Covenants 122:8; 3 Nephi 11:11

And Christ descended further – I’ve not yet a bitter cup.
I then get into bed, it’s time to sleep.
I’ve not worries now, because His promises He’ll keep.

Love,

Elder Barlow