t2w4

Dearest Family :)

First of all, HAVE A MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Second of all, this week has been a learning experience for me.

Our potential baptism fell through--he's just not quite ready. He's not ready yet, but he will be ready eventually. The thing he's trying to get around right now is getting his head to accept what his heart is saying is true. And that will just come with time. He wants to be able to answer yes to the baptismal questions with sureness. He's actually my miracle for the week. Let me tell you why...

We taught Victor Tuesday, and met again with him Thursday, trying to get as much in to prepare him for baptism as possible. The whole I week I was questioning the wisdom of trying to go so fast, but Hna. Camejo and I couldn't deny that we had felt that the 18th was his date so we surged forward with Hna. Ence, testifying to Victor that he needed to read and to pray, fasting for him, praying every day for him. Then came Saturday. We still had much to cover, so we did what we could and our district leader agreed to interview him. Victor wasn't sure yet, but we helped him see that he was feeling something, so he agreed to go through with the interview. When he went in with the district leader we were so nervous. Did we do it right? What was going to happen? I think we were all praying hard. Almost an hour later, they finally came back out. He didn't pass, but it had been a good discussion for him. They decided that he needed more time for him to be able to line up his head and heart because he still couldn't answer all of the first question with confidence. We don't know exactly why we felt that the 18th was his date except for this, that it strengthened Victor's desire to continue. It helped him clarify things a little, to see a little better what it would all mean for him and it helped us see where we need to go now to help prepare him. One thing he said after the interview stuck out to me, that he knew that he will become a member, just not yet. I don't know that we will be the ones who get to see him to baptism at this point. He'll be closing his shop soon so he will only be in Mississauga for a few months for a surgery, so we will probably transfer him to the Mississauga Elders, but we will still do our best to strengthen his faith in Christ and prepare him before he closes down. It's the torch the people should follow anyway, not the torch-bearers.

He's my miracle of the week because he still came to church yesterday. He still has the desire to learn more even after the "ordeal" we put him through on Saturday.

Unfortunately, no snow yet.

Yours,

Hna. Cottam

P.S. I'll probably try to call between one and five P.M. I'm allowed a 2 min. call the night before to set it up, so talk to you then! I can either use my phone card or you all can call me at a specified time.

pics!

Oh, I also wanted to tell you about the awesome zone conference we had last week! It was an all-day one with training, food, jeopardy on the missionary handbook and a Christmas Devotional! It was great fun and I got to see a lot of the other missionaries that I have met, like my trainer Hna. Brown :). Hna. Camejo and I got to sing with two of the other elders in the devotional. It was great.

Love ya'll!

hna. Cottam

Hermana Cottam

Left to Right: Hermana Cottam, Hermana Camejo, Hermana Ence

Left to Right: Hermana Cottam, Hermana Ence, Hermana Camejo

Left to Right: Hermana Cottam, Hermana Ence, Hermana Camejo

t2w3

Well, I've come down with a cold, but the work hasn't slowed :).

We have a prospect for baptism this coming week! His name is Victor. I think I told you some about him last week, but he has a baptismal date. He main road block right now is that he's studied some history, etc., so his head is saying one thing while his heart is beginning to feel another. He loves the people at church and enjoys our discussions. We still have a lot to teach him but he's coming along. We were able to have a member in our last lession which was a great help in answering some of Victor's questions.

We have also seen some of the fruit of our contacting. We had a family who was a bus contact attend church yesterday! We have an appointment set up with them for this coming week. The said that they enjoyed church. The husband especially I think is pretty receptive. He loved our discussion in sunday school about prayer and had some good insights like how after we pray we need to go out and work.  :) how true 

We were able to see one of our recent converts yesterday and Saturday who hasn't been coming to church because of work. He hurt his knee at work, so he was able to come to church yesterday! (the Lord works in mysterious ways :). Hna. Ence was great with him, showing him the index in the back of the scriptures and encouraging him to find a favorite scripture. His roommate Julio might start investigating the church, actually. He has been around the sisters because of Oscar, so maybe he's ready now.

Hna. Ence, our trainee, is improving. She is talking to more people and her loving desire to help others and get to know people is awesome.

So Jesse asked about the training program I've talked a little about so here's a short explanation: It's called the 12-week in-field orientation for new missionaries. The church has made a booklet with a schedule of what to study each week plus "check your progress" questionaires and a page for each on the 8 fundamentals of Preach My Gospel (also fairly new--helps us focus on what's most important for the investigators to do and feel, like church, prayer, the doctrine of Christ, etc.). The purpose is to prepare new missionaries faster so they can be more effective as missionaries sooner and so that they can train after they have gone through the training. We do a lot of role playing and watch segments from the Preach My Gospel dvd's, etc.

on another note, no snow here yet...:( but it's still pretty cold...I'm starting to get used to it though.

Have a great week everyone!

Love,

Hna. Cottam

t2w2

Hola familia!

Como estan?

So this week has been exciting with our new companion. Her name is Sis. Ence and she's from St. George, Ut! So she's not used to the cold. We had a little snow the day she arrived but other than that it's been cool but not too cold. It's been raining a lot too. So Hna. Ence is something of a combination of Hna. Camejo and I so we all get along pretty well. Actually, Hna. Camejo and she knew eachother in the MTC. She also knew me but I don't remember her very well, unfortunately. Well, now I know her :).

Anyway, and unfortunately our progressing investigators are not progressing anymore. We were so excited for them. We're not sure what happened, but we move on. We are still working with a woman named Elyse. She loves what we teach so far. It's just hard for her to get out to do anything because she has a very young baby who has been sick lately. Our first two lessons with her were actually in the hospital. The baby is getting better, but slowly.

Yesterday we were able to bring one of our other new investigators to church! His name is Victor and he runs a video store a few times a week near our house. He ended up staying the whole three hours! and we were able to get him a ride to the devotional last night so he came! He liked the people and all and he has a lot of questions. He has a good understanding of the bible and believes in God, he just doesn't believe in organized religion. (He hasn't found one to be the true church yet :)

I loved the devotional last night! And what's better is that Bro. Smith was playing in the orchestra :) I never got to see him playing while I was at the MTC so it was nice to see a familiar face. The talks were awesome. I loved the story of the Mansion. It brings a new light to how to lay up treasures in heaven.

I've got to go, but have a great week everyone! I know the Savior lives. This is His church. We have a prophet today who speaks His word.

Love,

Hna. Cottam

t2 w1!

Well, I made it through the first transfer...and Hna Camejo and I are staying together, but....We're training a new missionary!!!! How crazy is that?! We get her on Wednesday, so we'll see how it goes.

The work has really started to progress with Hna. Camejo. She is an OYMing nazi! She loves to talk to people! We now officially have 2 progressing investigators!!!!! AH!!!!!! It's so exciting. I love 'em! They are a married couple from Mexico. We met them at a bus stop Saturday night. And invited them to church. The wife said she'd come but the husband had to work. She gave us her number and we all got on the bus. Before we got off, the husband gave a card with both of their numbers on it. We later found out that the number she had originally given us was slightly wrong--she doesn't trust people. but the husband suggested that they give us the right numbers so they did (spirit in action right there:). the next morning we came to pick up Nancy and lo and behold her husband was coming along too! He had stayed home from work to come with us. Wow, What faith he is showing! Right after church we sat down with them for a few minutes and found out a little more about them, they told the story about the number and Nancy expressed her past desires to be baptized. We challenged them to a baptismal date on Christmas. and they excepted! Then we asked Alex to give the closing prayer. It was the first time he had ever prayed. Oh it was a sweet moment. I'm so excited for them! After that we went with them to the baptism the elders were having and the spirit there was so sweet. I'm so excited for these two and pray that they will continue to progress!

Oh, yeah, for Thanksgiving we had papoosas with our ward mission leader and his wife. They are good! but I did kind of miss the turkey and pies. Oh well. Thanksgiving here happened just before we came out so we in essence missed it. But Christmas is just around the corner and I know we won't miss that! 

I'm so excited for what lies ahead, for the chance to learn and grow with my fellow hermanas. 

Have a great week everyone. 

Yours,

Hna. Cottam

t1w6

Well....what a week, to say the least.

The week was going on as usual, though we had few appointments that went through. Then came Thursday. We had recieved a call from the assistants to the president. They talked to Hna. Brown for a while and they talked to me about the trainging program and how it differed from the MTC. They also asked how I liked one of the other sisters who had come out with me from the MTC. Well, I didn't think much of it. We then went to talk to a potential investigator. As we were telling him a little about the restoration, the phone rang again. Hna. Brown looked at it and said, I HAVE to take this. So we quickly said goodbye and she said it was the mission president. Okay, I thought. Now I knew something must be going on, but still wasn't sure. A little later the assistants called again and Hna. Brown handed the phone to me, saying, don't be scared. It's going to be okay. Wow. Okay, something definitely was going on. The assistant told me that they were doing an emergency transfer. Hna. Brown would leave the next morning to the neighboring area and the sister they'd asked me about earlier would become my new companion. ... ya. The transfer went off without a hitch.

So, my new companion's name is Hna. Camejo. She is full of life and fire. She talks to EVERYONE! She is just what we needed to jump start this area. She strives so hard to be obediant and to do all she can to forward the work. Thankfully she speaks Spanish fluently. As I said, we came from the MTC at the same time so we are now our own trainers--thankfully we have the new 12-week training program and the other missionaries in our district to guide us. What's funny is that we had talked about getting to work together. We just didn't expect it to be so soon.

We haven't gotten lost, yet. Of course, It has helped to have a map ;) 

Aside from the area benefitting, this transfer has greatly benefitted me.

The last few days have been very humbling. I can't lean on Hna. Brown, who had been in the area for 11 months, anymore, her knowledge of how to get around and where the best places to go are, etc. We have to rely totally on the Lord now, on His spirit and guidance. And as I have humbled myself, I have seen His hand. I am so grateful for this opportunity, for the trust the Lord has in us, even though we are super new still to the mission. It's incredible how He directs His work and how He places us in situations that will help us grow the most and become the type of missionary He wants to be.

This work will move forward. I can feel it. There are many miracles waiting just around the corner :)

The Lord is truly in control. It is His work. and I know that He will guide us to those who are prepared if we but listen and hearken to His Spirit, If we will keep our eyes peeled for them. "Open your mouth and spare not!" He said. Well, that's what we plan to do.

Have a wonderful week.

Yours,

Hna. Cottam

T1-W5

Dear family,

Wow, Time is flying by! A month already! and yet so slowly too :) This week felt extra long. Probably because of the many things that happened.

The highlights were that we had a leadership training on Thursday. All of those in the 12-week training program were invited to come as well. It was so good! We went to the Toronto Stake Center (one of the biggest meeting houses in the church, actually--has 3 or more floors!) and had a day full of meetings. We role-played and were fed by the good word. We also had an open forum on the training program--the good and bad of it. Well, we only came up with one or two bads :). The main one was the amount of time we spend in the apartment watching paint peel...With the training program we add an hour to our companionship study, Which if you include language study and personal study adds up to 4 hours just studying. But it is so worth it! The whole point, even though we may feel like we're wasting time now, is to get us up to speed faster for later. Go slow now, so we can go faster later! And I love everything I am learning from it. I'm so grateful to get to use it! It helps me know where to improve and how! And it helps us focus the training so I get the stuff I need to know to be effective.

Anyway, That night it got pretty down right cold for the next two days, but it warmed up again yesterday. No real snow yet, but I'm kind of glad for that since I don't have boots yet.

Friday, the sisters did an exchange. So I went with Sister Petty and Hna. Brown went with Sister Petty's companion, Sis. Woo. It was different doing English work for a day! But it was good. Sis. Petty is awesome! She is so friendly and upbeat with everyone. You can see that she loves everyone. We taught two lessons and did some door contacting. I've been waiting to work with her to let some of her cheerfulness rub off on me. And it did :). OYM's are a little easier now, because I just try to be happy and interested in the person.

Yesterday we had our first ward council with the new bishop. He is so missionary minded! The Elders who also serve in our ward got to meet with him earlier that day and discuss some things. We are really starting to focus on getting the members more involved. This last week in our studies, that was one of the topics, and I can see how having members more involved would help us in the work. Then the investigators (and new members!) would have someone else to also encourage them and to support them through these hard changes.

One of our investigators wants to be baptized!!! We don't have a date set, but he realized in the last lesson that baptism is key. I'm excited for him! I hope he keeps progressing. With him, it's kind of hard to tell where it's going to end up, but people can surprise you :)

have a great week!

Hna. Cottam

T1, W3

Mi familia,

The highlight of the week is that we have 3 new investigators!!! our efforts to find people to teach are starting to pay off. We've been going through the area book and stopping by old contacts. We've also gotten a couple of referals from others. yesterday's was probably the one I'm most excited about. He is a friend of an in-active member who wants to start coming back to church. He had us over yesterday and invited his friend over. We also brought a recent convert with us. Marcelo, the friend, has been searching for peace in his life for a long time. He's had a rough life. I'm so grateful for the friendship of that in-active member who because of him, lead us to Marcelo. I know this gospel can help him find the peace he seeks. I can't wait to see him really use the atonement in his life. It feels like he's ready. He even committed to come to church next sunday. I feel like he is super ready!

We've been seeing the fruits of our efforts to advertize for our ESL class. our numbers have really gone up since I got here. It's exciting to see, and hopefully something more will come of it. Hna. Brown and I had five students last class!

The weather has been staying mild. We've had some blue skies the last few days. Oh, It's wonderful. I'm surprised it hasn't snowed yet (knock on wood). The other day, Sis. Dodge, the senior sister in our district, said that it was colder in Idaho than here (that was Wednesday). But it will probably cool off soon.

Since Canadian Thanksgiving was in October, Christmas preparations are already underway here. Hna. Brown and I want to decorate our apartment a little and we've started listening to some christmas music. It's fun :) We might get a Thanksgiving dinner from a member when the American Thanksgiving rolls around. I think we've had two offers so far :).

I have a testimony of the gospel, it's simplicity. I know that God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He doesn't change, neither do His commandments and church. I'm so grateful for the restoration and for the gospel in my life, the peace and security it has brought me. I want so much to share it with others so they can find that peace also.

The church is true. It has been restored. And it's up to all of us to get the word out :) The Lord is preparing people to recieve it, we just have to find them and bring them into the gate of baptism.

Have a wonderful week, ya'll!

Yours,

Hna. Cottam

T1-W2 (Transfer 1–Week 2)

Hola! Happy Halloween!

Well, don't have a lot of time right now because my district went to China Town today, so it will be a short e-mail.

The work is still slow but we are pressing forward trying to find the elect, those who have been prepared to receive His gospel. We have contacted some people who may be interested, so we'll see! For my companionship, our vision for November is "As we sow, so shall we reap" so we gotta dig deep to reap :)

Saturday we had a fun activity with the youth. They had a mini mission, with some meetings and then they came out with us for a few hours. We had four of the young women with us. We did some contacting and had an appointment with a recent convert. It was great! I loved working with them. The street contacting was my favorite part.

Well, all the best!

love,

Hna. Cottam

P.S. I do have a winter coat now. It was left by one of the other sisters and fits well. I hope it will be warm.

 

I have a little more time to give you all this thought:

Today as I studied about the Book of Mormon and conversion, I thought about a doubt that we encountered this last week. We started talking to a man on the street and he threw at us Rev. 22: 18-19 that says to not add any words to the book (the Bible as a whole to his mind), and he said that prophets were only a thing of the past and we don't need them now because we have the Spirit to guide us. I tried to find some scriptures to counter it this morning, but I realized that someone like that, even if I found a scripture that said exactly what I needed it to in the Bible, they wouldn't beleive it, or would come up with something else to discount it. In D&C 20 the Lord says how the Book of Mormon is the evidence that we do have prophets today, that he is the same today, yesterday, and forever. So, the best way to counter such doubts is to invite them to read and ask for themselves. I know the Book of Mormon is a powerful tool in conversion. It helps us gain a testimony and learn of Christ.
I am so grateful to have the gospel in my life, to have the knowledge of my Savior and his gospel. I want others to know it too, to have the joy and clearness in their lives. Every door that doesn't open or door that closes, I ache a little because they are missing out on something much bigger than us all. I love the Lord. I love this Gospel. And I hope to share it with as many as I can. Have a great week everyone.

Oh, and we finally have one new investigator! a member referal. I hope it goes well :)

Transfer 1, week 1

Hola from Toronto!!!

I'm in an area just outside downtown Toronto called Black Creek. We get to ride the buses and I rode the subway for the first time the other day! We also do a fair amount of walking.

My first impression as we came in for landing was that this place looked like a mix of Seattle and Alaska--big city, but foreign land. They weren't kidding when they said it is a melting pot here! There are so many different cultures and we meet so many different cultures. Ukranians, Hungarians, Muslims, many Hispanics, Jamiacans, Philipinos :), and Koreans, Vietnamese, along with the Canadians. It was a bit of a culture shock but I'm getting used to it now.

We spent the first night in the Mission home. I loved it there. I felt comfortable right away. I love Pres. and Sis. Scott. They are awesome. And there is a senior couple who cooked our meals while there named the Rotos. They are from Argentina. :) Tuesday morning we went through some orientation, had lunch, and met our trainers. My companion is Hna Brown. She's from Payson, UT and this is her second to last transfer. She's been in this area for most of her mission so she knows it really well and knows the people really well. It's been nice to have that anchor. We get along really well and encourage eachother in improving.

As to the work, we are doing a ton of finding right now and trying to get the members aquainted with me. We have one official investigator right now--Juan. He is soft set for the 20th of Nov. He is golden (when we can get ahold of him...). He has stopped drinking alcohol and coffee (he stopped drinking coffee on the spot when we told him we don't drink it!). He even bought a suit for church. Hopefully we can get him there next week!

The weather is chilly here. There are some very rainy days and cloudy days and now and then we see some blue sky. I did get to see Lake Ontario the other day! We were down in a building near the lake trying to visit an in-active member and decided to knock some doors, so we went to the top floor. The view from the window was awesome. I didn't realize we were so close to the lake at that point. It's big :)

We also teach an English Class here. We don't have very many students at the moment so Hna Brown and I have been doing some blitzing (putting up flyers) to try to get more students. I loved going to church yesterday as well. I love the members here! and I learned the word for welcome: bienvenido. :) pretty much all of them have said it to me.

Anyway, thanks for the e-mails ya'll! I am only just beginning to see the potential here and in me for the work to progress. I love the Lord and I know that when we have faith in Him, all things are possible.

Keep in touch!

Yours,

Hna Cottam

Where Sister Cottam Lives

She lives in the house behind the tree and the dumpster…on the right-hand side of the picture.

Sister Cottam

Brother and Sister Russell Cottam

285 Hall Street

Blackfoot, ID  83221

20 October 2011

Dear Brother and Sister Cottam:

We are grateful to receive your daughter, Sister Rebekah Ruth Cottam, as a new missionary in the Canada Toronto Mission.  We are including a picture that we took with her at the mission home when she arrived.  Her testimony and enthusiasm for the work are evident.  As her mission president and wife, we thank you for the sacrifice that was made to prepare her to serve as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  As parents who have sent children on missions, we recognize the feelings involved in sending a son or daughter on a full-time mission for the Lord.

A dedicated service to the Lord brings many blessings to many people.  As a full-time servant of the Lord, Sister Cottam, will be blessed with a greater knowledge of the gospel, as well as a stronger testimony.  She will touch the hearts of many people, and those whom she will teach will be able to change their lives as they receive the peace and knowledge that comes through the gift and power of the Holy Ghost.  King Mosiah related the comforting message from the Lord that he received when he inquired about sending his sons into the service of the Lord: “Let them go up, for many shall believe on their words, and they shall have eternal life.” (Mosiah 28:7).  The Lord relates in Doctrine and Covenants 84:80-85 that His Elders and Sisters will be taken care of well.  It requires a lot of faith, but we know that the Lord is watching over us all.

After prayerful consideration, Sister Aimee L. Brown, one of the outstanding missionaries in the mission, has been called to be your daughter’s first companion and trainer.  Sister Cottam’s current address is:

75 Upwood Ave.

North York, ON

M6L 3A4

Canada

We are sure that Sister Cottam, will love her mission as she stays dedicated and focused on the Lord’s work.  We promise to love and care for her.  We testify of the truthfulness of this marvellous work of bringing souls to a knowledge of the Savior.

Serving a full time mission can be the most significant and rewarding experience in a young person’s life.  It is rigorous and challenging and requires great spiritual focus.  Successful and happy missionaries abide by a strict code of conduct and obedience.  Enclosed herewith is a copy of some of the conduct expectations of our missionaries that may be helpful for you to have as you support and sustain your missionary in this great work.

Once again, we thank you for the faith you have shown to the Lord and the sacrifices that you are making.  We feel it a great privilege and responsibility to care for your missionary while she serves the Lord and pray daily for her happiness, well being, and success.

With love and gratitude,

  Brent L. Scott

President

week 8

¡Hola Familia!

¿Como Est´´an?

I have but one week left here in the MTC. It's crazy!!! I will be flying out on Monday, Oct 17th, fairly early in the morning. There will be 16 missionaries in my group, so that will be fun to travel with them all! 4 others in my district will also be leaving that day, one tuesday, and the other two wednesday. I'm going to miss them all! Only one of the elders will be coming with me to Toronto.

I am scared but excited. I can't wait to meet my mission president and his wife, Pres. and Sister Scott, and there's only so much I can do here without getting out there and do the real thing. I'm giong to strive to do all I can to be as prepared as I can this week. There's so much to do!

The weather has certainly taken a turn for the colder this week. I'm grateful for my raincoat with it's wool liner and my scarf! I'm a little aprehensive of Toronto because of it, though. It's going to be even colder! But I'll learn the ways to keep warm soon enough.

The fireside was wonderful last night. One thing the brethren want to do to help retain new members is be sure they commit to paying their tithing consistantly, so the Admin. person of the MTC spoke to us last night all about tithing. I really enjoyed it. There are great promises that come with paying it: spiritual strength especially, increased faith as we exercise it, and many other blessings that He will pour out that there be not room enough to receive it! (Mal 3:10--one of my favorites!)

There was another scripture I just loved as I read in the Book of Mormon this week. It's in Alma 32, verse 16. Alma is talking to the Zoramites about humility and the way he defined humility was just really clear to me in this verse. He said that humility is acting "without stubborness of heart." the example he gave was baptism but it's a lot more. It's when we do the Lord's will--what the spirit prompts or the handbook lays out. It's obeying the words of the prophets without saying "it's a hard thig you've required of us!" but willingly, quickly doing (as one of the 70 said during GC) the right thing at the right time. Don't sit and stew, go and do!

I have learned so much here at the MTC. My teachers have been wonderful and I've had many teaching opportunities. I loved getting to sing with the choir for devotionals. I love the Lord. I know He lives. I know we have a LOVING Heavenly Father. He prepared a way for us to return to Him through His Son Jesus Christ. He is our Savior and Redeemer. I know Joseph Smith was a prophet and that through an unbroken line of Priesthood authority Thomas S. Monson is the prophet today on the earth. Jesus Christ leads His church through him. I love this work and can't wait to tell everyone in Toronto about it!!!

I hope you all have a great week and please keep in touch! I love letters! (use my mission home address starting next week)

I love you all!

Sincerely,

Hna. Cottam

week 7

Hola familia!

Only two weeks left here at the MTC. I'm excited and scared to be leaving this place of safety, but it will be so nice to get out into the real world: Toronto! I should know my flight plans at the end of this week. It's coming so fast! I need to speak more Spanish!

This week has been good. The only sad part was that Sis. Cottam left for South Carolina. I'm excited to read her E-mail!

Tuesday's devotional was inspirational as always. Elder Don R. Clarke of the 70 came and spoke to us. He helped us understand a little more what a mission will mean to us. You will be most successful, he said, if you follow the Spirit, Search the Scriptures, be obedient and keep the commandments, and apply what you learn. Near the end he read the well-known poem,  "Touch of the Master's hand." It had a new light that night. Eternity will be changed through you, he said, but only if you know how to work with the one with the master's hand.

I loved general conference! We certainly have living prophets and apostles today. I'm so excited for the temple in Provo, too! I think my two favorite talks were ELder Uchtdorf's from the Relief Society session (they showed it to the sisters here during the priesthood session) and Elder Carl B. Cook of the 70. It's better to look up! How true :) It was different watching all the sessions in the big gym. It was cold so I bundled up while watching, then it was warm outside.

Anyway, the weather in Provo has been staying pretty mild. We still have some hotter days that make me want to get to Toronto where it's cooler, but then we get the cooler days and I'm not quite so anxious. 

I love all the things I am learning here. The Lord has humbled and taught me in ways I didn't think He would. As I work with the sisters I am learning leadership skills I didn't have before and I am growing to love them more and more. I have experienced instances where the spirit has lead me to do a certain thing or share a certain scripture to uplift them. But I still have a long ways to go and much more work to do before I leave the MTC. The Spanish is coming slowly. I need to work harder at it this week. 

We are teaching 6 "progressive investigators" now. Both of our teachers are still investigators, but we've added teaching eachother. So we each have a pesona, we get taught and we teach the others. Each companionship is teaching two of the other companionships, so we're teaching at least one lesson a day now, sometimes two or three, and we may up it still before we leave.

Well, I hope you all are doing well. Don't forget to keep writing!

Love,

Hna. Cottam

week 6

Hola familia!

It's been a great week. The highlight was making music with Elder Howell and Sis. Cottam (the trio!!!) We got together and worked on my favorite arrangement of O My Father--by Sally DeFord. We tried out for a musical number for one of the larger meetings, but with Sis. Cottam leaving today, they couldn't fit us in. But we did get to sing in my sacrament meeting. It was so wonderful. After we finished I was overcome for a moment with emotion: from the music, from the Spirit, and for the opportuntity to make music with my sister before she left for South Carolina

Well, we have been very blessed once again this week...we had another apostle come speak to us on Tuesday! It was Elder Russell M. Nelson. I loved it. His wife first spoke (and may I say that she reminded me a little of Mom in her simple, loving manner. Love you Mom :)) Then Elder Nelson spoke about the Book of Mormon. He had four missionaries come up and had each one tell him something they knew about the B of M. They did about 3 rounds of this. It was really cute because at the end of this he told us that one of the sisters was his grand daughter and gave her a big hug. I actually recognize her from BYU where she played flute. He also gave us some of the history about the printing and development of the book in accessability over the years and then discussed the October Ensign with us. About a week prior we all got a copy. It was an excited day for all of us in my district. It was like Christmas had come 3 and a half months early. I couldn't put it down for 30 minutes. Anyway, he went over some of the highlights with us. The best part about that devotional, though, was the overwhelming feeling I had. I realized that we have been sitting at the feet of prophets the last month. Oh, it's magnificent! I feel so blessed right now.

Well, days are still long here but the weeks short. Days are starting to blend a little, but that's okay. I'm learning much here and I love it. Oh, we recieved a new district in my branch this last wednesday. It was the first time I got to help train a district. The best part is that there are 4 hermanas in the district! We were so happy to hear that they would be coming since the other four hermanas left for the field last Monday. It's been great to get to know them. One is serving here in Provo, another in Arcadia, CA and the other two I can't remember at the moment. One of the elders is from Idaho Falls :).

Hey Mom, my companion and I were talking and I mentioned again how you are learning hebrew and an arabic language (which one?) and she said to tell you she likes you :). (If you didn't remember, she's studying those languages in school, so ya, she's a fan.)

A couple of items of business:

I don't think I ever had my recital dress dry-cleaned. Mom, could you make sure that happens. I don't think it would be good to have it sit there still stinky from my recital for another 17 months. It's the bronze one in my closet.

Also, I plan on sending my temple clothes home. I just don't think I'll have room with my extra books and the winter clothes I will buy once I get to Toronto (only 3 weeks left!!!).

There are two things I could use, though, if you wouldn't mind sending them. More of those Zinc tablets. I think I feel another cold coming on and they work better than the Halls defense drops. Also, I've been going through ink in my pens pretty quick so if you could send me some refill that'd be great. They're a Zebra F-301 pen fine point. I know they sell refills at Walmart--the F-Refill I think. Black ink, smooth writing, fine point.

Well, I love you all so much. Please keep in touch. I love letters! Though there's no saying how often I will be able to write back.

Yours,

Hermana Cottam <3

week 5

Hola ya'll!

Week 4 has come and gone! or is it counted as week 5? I get mixed up. anyway, i've been her 4 weeks and 5 days.

So I got to sit on the stand at the fireside last night. My companion and another elder in my district gave the prayers, so their companions had to stay with them :). It was an awesome sight to get to look out on all the missionaries.

The message of the fireside was wonderful as well. Sister and President Wilkins spoke to us. He's on of the district presidents. Sister Wilkins had an umbrella. She encouraged us to open our umbrella when it rains, or utilize the atonement, because it won't do much good at our sides. Pres. Wilkins spoke on a few things, but my favorite was that problems are really opportunities. Opportunities to serve, to work with others, etc. I love it because my mind is starting to take it to heart. I like being that optomistic!

I'm starting to get the grove of my calling as coordinating sister. I've held my first meeting with my zone and went to several meetings. This week I get to help the zone leaders train our incoming elders and....so exciting, 4 new sisters! The 4 that were in our zone left today for the field and we didn't expect to get new ones right away! It will be great. Now we are the experienced hermanas who will help them get adjusted to the MTC. I can't wait to meet them.

I love seeing people I know here. There are several from my freshman ward at BYU, a few from Blackfoot (Michon Christensen, Jacob Wheelright, etc.) and a couple other friends from school. Forest Howell, my friend and accompanist arrived on Wednesday. We might put a musical number together for one of the firesides/devotionals. It would be great fun to make music with him again. Last night I saw my Mission Prep teacher from BYU. I was happy to get the chance to tell him where I am headed. I also see Sister Cottam a lot at meals and the large meetings. We finally sat together during choir yesterday, which was a blast. We are singing "Consider the Lilies". I love it!

Saturday I got my first taste of a drunk/hungover investigator. That was fun. We tried to teach a little then just ended because he obviously wasn't in it. (he's our teacher) He talked to us after and helped us understand better how to deal with that situation--you gotta shame him. Just ask that they don't be drunk or high for your lessons or you won't teach them that time. It's a waste of time if you try to. You know, sometimes we all need a call to repentance, a wake up call.

I love the Book of Mormon. I wish I had more time to read it(in both languages :) because there's so much good stuff. Yesterday I was reading in Mosiah 26 when Alma asks the Lord about the people who are rejecting the church. The Lord tells him first that those who are a part of the church are blessed then teaches him that all who will hear His voice will be blessed. Any who repent and come unto Him are a part of His church, but if they do not, they are not a part of His church. But He also says, that "as often as my people repent will I forgive them their trespasses against me." He is so merciful to His children, to us. The purpose of missionaries is to invite others to partake of His mercy and love and to come unto Him.

I love this work. Have a great week ya'll.

Sincerely,

Hna. Cottam

week 4

Hola familia!

The biggest news from this week is that I was called as the coordinating sister for my zone yesterday. So I'm kinda like a district leader for the sisters, dealing with residence hall stuff, etc. There are 8 sisters in my zone for now. 4 of them will leave in about a week and I don't know when or if we'll get more before I leave.

Anyway, I'm glad to hear Jacob passed his semenar. Way to go!

I got to see Rachel--Sister Cottam--the day she arrived. I had a break at the time she reported so me and my companion waited near the host sisters. We knew she'd have to come there at some point. Her reaction was priceless. We see eachother every day since her meal time is only 15 minutes before mine. It's been really nice, except that I can't speak in English much anymore...

One of my teachers, Hno. Sheide, is really into using competetive games to help my district use our Spanish. Last week was the tarjeta game (cards) where if you said something in Enlish someone else could take a card from you. The one with the most cards won. This week we are playing el Nativo escondido. It's kinda like mofia. There is one person who is the native speaker and two gringitos and the rest are gringos. At the next class period we vote on who we think was the nativo. When we fist played this game it was about speaking as much spanish as possible. Now it's about speaking only spanish but for a few exceptions (talking to staff, at gym, at times during class). If someone heard the nativo speak english though, the lose all their points. if you vote for a gringito you get hurt point-wise also. So, I'm speaking a lot of Spanish, which really helps me progress. He's an awesome teacher.

The cold that's been going around has caught up with me with a bit of a vengance. but i'm doing alright.

Here's a couple of thoughts from the devo's, etc. this week:

Jay E. Jensen spoke at our tuesday devotional this week. He spoke about how "decisions determine destiny." He also talked about the 6 m's of missionary work. Missionaries create an environment that allows the spirit to touch people's hearts.

This weekend I feel like the Spirit has been hit a lot. In Relief Society, Rebecca Thompson from the general relief society board spoke on it and in sacrament meeting and I studied it for a district lesson. It's interesting in light of my call to be coordinating sister, because it takes help from the spirit to address the sisters' needs, to correct in love when needed and so on. I'm grateful for it. I know the Holy Ghost is so important in our lives. he helps us stay on the right path and to build our spiritual strength and testimony. He provides comfort and guidance. it's amazing.

So my companion and I had a couple of great lessons with our 'investigators' this week. We finally broke through with one of them who has been pretty unresponsive lately and we had a powerful lesson on the restoration with the other. We felt the spirit strongly as we shared the Joseph Smith story (with the first vision memorized! Ha!) and testified of it. It was great. Role playing has been such a wonderful teacher for us. It's great.

In other news, the bookstore/mailroom/salon and more are moving to a newly-renovated building on campus this week. So no dear elders until thursday, but we'll recieve everything else.

I love you all!

Sincerely,

Hna. Cottam

P.S. thanks for the quick reponses earlier and for your support and prayers. I have needed it. Good luck with everything!

week 3

Hola!

Well I survived my third week. Yipee! The mission has been harder than I thought it would be but oh so worth it. We've had some awesome devos/conferences/firesides this week. It has been so nourishing.

Tues: ELDER HOLLAND!!!!

Oh, man it was awesome! He was a little emotional about a sister missionary who had died in NY earlier that day from a car crash, so his thoughts were so sincere and stirring. He first of all told us he loved us. He then urged us (think of how he sometimes gets in gen. conf. but more intense!) to not damage the image of missionaries. "YOU HAVE NO RIGHT..." he said, and you will be accountable. Neither do we have the right to disapoint (sorry, my spelling is going haywire since learning spanish) the prophets who have seen us, the missionaries through the ages you have not succeeded but kept going because they saw our day and our success. "you have no right to turn your back and walk away as if the mission didn't matter." It matters. When we truly try to do our best, our mission will influence every part of our lives throughout the rest of our lives. Don't turn your back on the gospel and go inactive after you mission.

After that he chose several questions from a list Pres. Brown (MTC pres.) had gathered from missionaries. here´s a short version:

1.What is the most important thing Christ wants us to know right now? That what he said was true.

2. What are the best ways to invite the Spirit into our lives? Delve into the scriptures, Pray, Don't lose it! (don't go or do anything that would drive it away)

3. What's the best advice you've received? go on a mission, to marry as directly and honestly as he could, and to get as much education as he could.

4. What is the comparision between a general authority and a missionary? almost the same: both out being witnesses of Christ. (missionaries are basically an extention for the twelve to spread the word.) remember that this experience will never come again, it will never be the same.

5a. Whay is the greatest gift I can give to Christ? your heart (this one really touched me; JS-H 1:19 don't be like them)

5b. Why does God love us? "I'm imperfect," he said," but in one thing that I am almost nearly perfect is the love I have for my children." We are God's children. He will do anything within righteousness for our sakes.

Man it was awesome! and So powerful.

And Rachel, the musical number after was the one you kept singing before I left :Savior Redeemer of my Soul. and they signed with it. It was so touching.

Anyway, I'd describe the other meetings, but I'm short on time.

Monday night we had a fire drill. That was entertaining. It was just after we'd gotten to the residence. Someone had burned popcorn. Needless to say we didn't get to bed on time that night :).

Our new teachers are two very different people. Hno. Anderson is quiet and moves at a slow pace. Hno. Shiede is so energetic and has all these great activities for learning vocab. One is called the verb game. We learn 50 verbs and assign eachone an action then we pull them out of a box and the rest of the group says the verb by recognizing the action. It's a great way to remember them. And we will be trying to beat Hno. Sheide's previous district, who did it in 53 seconds, especially because they made a comment about us hermanas.

We have been spending part of our class time teaching our teachers who act like investigators. It's been tough figuring out how to teach it so they will desire to have faith and repent. But we're getting better. We peel back layer by layer.

A cold has been going around like wildfire. Two of our elders went to the hospital because our clinic was closed on Saturday to get some medicine for it and another elder also went to the emergency room for a minor concusion he got playing soccer that day. Our poor elders :)

So how was everyone's labor day? The temple was closed today, which was sad, but it was uber nice to have the extra time. We seriously have very little here!

Can't wait to see you Rachel!!!

Yours,

Hermana Cottam

week 2

Hola!

I have been in the MTC for 12 days! doce dias :)

Sorry my e-mails are kinda short and sporadic. I don't have a lot of time and don't know what to say.

Anyway, my spanish is getting a little better and my spirit a little stronger. Last Tuesday's devo was great, especially since the speakers natively speak Spanish and I could tell why they pronounce things the way they do. It was one of the 70, but i can't remember his name right now, sorry. I loved singing in the choir on Tuesday too. The choir directors are great. We sang Precious Savior, Dear Redeemer. The choir director on Sundays always tells stories and helps us get the flow and feeling of the music. Tues. night director helps us put it all together. 

At the fireside last night, all the missionaries sang Called to Serve together, but like a choir--starting soft and getting louder each verse. It was awesome when we repeated the last chorus at the top of our lungs.  

My district is great. We have 4 elders and 4 hermanas. Only one of the elders is coming to my same mission. We get new teachers today, actually. They are switching them all around because of the start of the semester. It's kinda sad because we loved our teacher. He had the Barcalona lisp, though he usually hid it well. We like to eat together as a district. The food's been pretty good. They had a sweet salad last night with cinnimon toasted almonds and blueberries. They had cheesecake one night but we're the last group to go through so I missed it. I was so bummed about that.

So I want to confirm the rumors of three earthquakes, one being in D.C. I also heard that there was a tidal wave warning on the east coast. How's it going?

By the way Dad, my companion lives near Rocky Flats. She told me about it when I told her were worked with nuclear waste. small world :)

Thanks Rachel for the letter. I love you!

and thanks for the backpack!

The Williams sent me a letter with some quotes and a cartoon early last week. It was great.

And thanks Mom for your notes :)

Have a great week everyone!

Love,

Hna. Cottam

!Hola!

Hola ya'll!

It's my first p-day! it's a nice break from the rigors of the week, even if it is still pretty busy. My companion Hermana Scott is awesome. She's from Denver, CO. We are getting along well and learning together how to become missionaries. She knows more Spanish than me at this point so I ask her how to say things a lot. Today I bought some note cards on a ring that I can use to practice vocab. I'm excited to use them. They've added a computer program to our language study. It reminds me a little of Rosetta Stone. It helps me learn vocab because it uses many activities so you see the words over and over.

BTW Thanks Jesse and Julie for your letters. They made my day!

And if anyone wants to write a letter that will get to me the same or next day, try dearelder.com 'cause I have found out how wonderful letters are! I feel kinda bad now that I didn't write to my brothers more often while you all were out. Sorry guys.

Anyway, life as a missionary is BUSY! When we use our time like we're supposed to, there's hardly a minute to spare and I'm always exhausted by the end of the day. Then we get up and do it again! My district is already teaching an investigator in Spanish. Each companionship is teaching him seperately. We've taught two lessons and tomorrow is the third. It's been a great teacher on how to use the spirit, because we have to depend on it so much since we have little skill in Spanish...and even if we did have the language down, the spirit is uber important! Though the days are long and hard I am learning so much! So far in Spanish we have learned how to introduce ourselves, how to pray, and how to testify and then add the stuff we learn so we can muddle through a lesson (with lots of sharades and body language :).  

So my favorite parts of the week so far were the temple this morning and choir yesterday. Rachel you'll love him! He's such a great conductor/teacher. My most favorite part was that before relief society, they broadcasted MUSIC AND THE SPOKEN WORD!!! Can you tell I was excited? We haven't been allowed to listen to any of our own music while here so getting to listen to Motab was oh, so heavenly. :) :) I love music!

The fireside last night was awesome. Brother Allen from the Missionary Dept. was our speaker. The first half of his talk he spoke about obedience, giving us several stories of stupid missionaries and the high price they paid for not following mission guidelines. So...follow the rules! if a rule seems stupid, it's a reflection of your own wisdom, not the rule. The last part of his talk he spoke on the Holy Ghost. It was a great message to help us realize how important exact obedience is and how the spirit can help us, because the spirit converts, we only invite.

My time is about up. If you all find the time I would love some e-mails/letters!

I love you all so much!

Sincerely,

Hermana Cottam

First Letter from Hermana Cottam!

Here is the first written letter from Hermana Cottam!!!

Hola Familia!

       ?Como estas?

We have started speaking in Spanish - what we know anyway.

My companion is Hermana Scott. We and the two other hermanas in my district share a room. All three of them are headed to Fresno, CA. We also have four elders in my district. One of them is also going to Toronto. He's from Alberta, Canada I think. Hermana Scott is from Denver. So far we have gotten along pretty well.

I have been less nervous than I thought I would be. Seriously as soon as I hit the curb and left with the elders my nervousness became excitement and peace. It was a very long first day, though. A lot of new things, class, and meetings.

Last night they had about half of us in a large meeting where we met 3 investigators, and the majority of the time, we the audience were the teachers. I think it was a great intro to teaching and getting to know new investigators, trying to answer their questions. Our teacher, Hermano Hardcastle, said we'll start teaching in espanol.

So there are backpacks in the bookstore, but only one kind and it looks kinda flimsy - like it wouldn't last for the whole mission. So I was wondering if ya'll would send me a backpack or send me one of my other bags to carry stuff in until I get to Canada. If you get a backpack, just make sure it's got a decent-sized water bottle slot. Luke said the Dakine brand is pretty hearty.

Anyway, I hope you all are doing well. Oh, and my P-days are on Mondays. :)

Love ya'll lots!

<3 Hermana Cottam

P.S. Mom, Hermana Scott has been studying Arabic and Hebrew at BYU! Cool, huh?

<3

P.P.S. I'm excited to get to know my district. And everyone's so helpful. Rachel - don't worry. The MTC is a happy place. Don't stress :) . Love you, sis.

P.P.S.  I've seen several people I know. Elder Jordan Christensen, Ariel from my freshman ward and two music majors :)

MTC address

Here's my MTC address. It is for letters and packages!

Sister Rebekah Ruth Cottam
MTC Mailbox # 252
CAN-TORW 1018
2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604-1793

it's okay, subconscious

My subconscious doesn't want to admit that I will be leaving home and family for a year and a half. It's different than anything I've done before (except maybe leaving for college--it's kinda like that). I'm scared because I'm not sure how well I'll get a hang of the language, having never spoken one before except for the few phrases I learned in German in high school. But I'm also excited to get out into the field, to see Toronto and meet all sorts of people. I can't wait to meet my mission president. I talked to him this last week on the phone and he seems amazing. I know he and his wife are waiting excitedly for me to come with open arms.

About my subconscious--I found today that my mind is trying really hard to not think about my leaving, about the people I'll miss and the things and events I'll miss. I find myself not wanting anyone to cry because they will miss me. I just want to move forward and get started and not have to say goodbye. I even had a hard time listening to the musical number in sacrament meeting today because I didn't want anyone to focus on the fact that I am leaving. I kept thinking, this meeting isn't for me! I don't want it to be about me and my leaving!

But now I realize that I need to humble myself a little. That number and the little luncheon was more for other people than for me. It's a chance to get a little closure for that year and a half. (man, I feel like I'm talking about death! ha) I realize that when I send others off, I like to have that chance to say bye one last time, to see them one last time before they leave. Because who knows when the next time you see them will come around. That's how all my friends and family feel to a degree. So I should be grateful for their support and that they will miss me at all and strive to make them proud.

It's okay, subconscious. I am leaving and I will miss my family and friends. It's okay to cry, to feel a little homesick. Just don't forget why you're going out there. Don't forget that you need to be out there and that God wants you there. Go. Have a wonderful time! Meet new people. Make new friends. Experience new places and cultures and ideas and language. It's okay if you're not perfect. Just be yourself. :)

mission addresses

If you wish to write to me here are my addresses:

MTC (Aug 17th to mid-Oct.)

Sister Rebekah Ruth Cottam
Canada Toronto Mission
Provo Missionary Training Center
2005 N 900 E
Provo, UT 84604
United States

Mission Home (mid-Oct. to Feb or Mar of 2013)

Sister Rebekah Ruth Cottam
Canada Toronto Mission
197 County Court Blvd Ste 203
Brampton, ON L6W 4P6
Canada

Am I Committed?

I think I have a commitment issue, and I think it ties in with procrastination. Too often I set a goal and then do it when I feel like it or just for a few days until I fizzle out.

One example is exercising. Too often I just don't do it. I don't get up in time or I say I'm tired or just find other things to do. I do the same thing with just going to bed and getting up by a specific time. I get distracted at night then realize the time. Then in the morning I have a hard time getting up, seeing as I have no where to go right away and it feels good to just sleep.

All too often this is a pattern in my life. I start reading a book and say I'll finish it by this time but only read it every so often. I think to myself, the dishes need doing, then go do something else that is much less productive. But this pattern must end.

Pres. Uchtdorf said in this month's Ensign, "Those who are only sort of committed may expect to only sort of receive the blessings of testimony, joy, and peace. The windows of heaven might only be sort of open to them. Wouldn’t it be foolish to think, 'I’ll commit myself 50 percent now, but when Christ appears at the Second Coming, I’ll commit myself 100 percent'?"

I can't get by on good intentions. I must leap off the cliff rather than stand at the edge. I need to stop retreating into a shell of apathy and comfort.

"So wake up and do something more than dream of your mansion above; doing good is a pleasure, a joy beyond measure..."

As Pres. Uchtdorf declares, action is the key. I have a mission to prepare for and after that, a career. So I need to stop debating over whether to do those little things that lead to the great and just do it.

"In some way, each of us stands at a decision point overlooking the water. It is my prayer that we will have faith, move forward, face our fears and doubts with courage, and say to ourselves, 'I’m committed!'"

I don't want to get to the judgement bar with a pocket full of good intentions. I'd much rather get there with a bucket full of climbed hills and mountains.

After all, "if you pile up enough tomorrows, all you get is a bunch of empty yesterdays."

Called to Serve

I have been called to serve in the Canada Toronto Mission and I will be speaking Spanish. I'm excited and scared. It's a big step into a new world where all I do every day is think about, read about, study about, and teach about the gospel of Jesus Christ. I look forward to the growth I know I will experience, but I hope I'm up to the challenge. I have to remember, however, that with God, all things are possible and another scripture gives me comfort: D&C 84:88-89

"And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hears, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up.

"Whoso receiveth you receiveth me...."

I know that this call comes from the Lord and I am humbled that He sees so much potential in me. I pray that I can live up to that potential, and I am determined to do so.