Dec 16, 2013

Hey family!

So this week was such a great week. 

But to start it off. I need to know how I skype you guys. LIke to what account I will call. And I need to know what time. It will probably be better for April to call first. Or we call together? I dont know. You guyd figure it out and let me know. 

So.....I did not get transferred. I cant believe it. I am really excited to finish the 12 weeks of training with my comp but this is my fifth transfer in this area....I know this are better than people who have lived here for years.... 7 months in the most difficult area on the mission. President Andrezzo told us that Bandeirantes is the hardest on the body in the entire mission. And he never ever leaves someone in an area longer than 4 transfers....haha Beleza. haha. No honestly I am excited because we are working with a really solid group. I am excited to get back working with them. Obviously there is something that I am not getting right here cause the Lord is asking me to stay another 6 weeks. Maybe this time I will be able to get it right. haha. 

So this week was pretty sweet. We had a good time. I forgot to tell you but two weeks ago I think I might have broken my big toe playing some soccer in the street against some kids. If we won, they had to go to church. If not, we had to buy them a coke....haha. Ya my toe got destroyed because the street is so uneven. haha. But it doesnt matter because we won 7-6 and they all went to church that next Sunday. And two of them will be baptized. haha. That was in the area when I went with the Assistents. It was sweet. 

This week was good. Like I already said. Nothing too crazy has been going on. We are working really hard with our group. We have an investigator that is progressing in everything. And I mean everything. Expect....she doesnt go to church...Well at least she hasnt gone yet....Man its hard. I dont know what to do with her. I dont want to let her go becuase of all of the things she is doing. But three weeks and she hasnt gone to church yet. Its tough. I might shoot her. But we will pray about it tomorrow in weekly planning. I think we will keep her. 

That sweet little family is now down to just the teenage girl. The Mom went freaking crazy! And said that we cant teach anyone anymore. But we still go over there and teach them. haha. Shhhh. But honestly, they dont want anything anymore. Only the teenage girl. Maybe one day when they all grow up. I hope that we were able to plant some kind of seed inside of them. 

We had Stake Conference this weekend. It was sweet. M. Russell Ballard spoke. But he spoke in English and they didnt have the translation for him. SO me and another American missionary took turns translating for the entire stake. It was....pretty nerve racking. haha. It was tough. But we were able to do it. 

Lets see what else....It is really hot. Thats normal....

You all know everything about my area. Well at least you should. ALmost 7 months here. I know it better than Provo. 

O I had the chance to ordain Gabriel, my first baptism in this area, as an Elder. It was a special and emotional experience. The way the gospel has transformed this young man is unbelievable. 

Something we need to work on is trying to contact more men. Then problem is there are so many men that wont even talk to us and when they do they act like punks. But we still got to do it. 

I cut Elder Browns hair today. It turned out really good. Mom and Nicole would be proud. I used scissors and all. He liked it a lot so that was sweet. 

Alright. So that was how my week was. There are probably more things I am just not able to remember them. haha. I love you all. I hope all is well. I am excited to see you all next week. Give me the details about what time and to who I will call. Love you all and be safe. 

Elder Hadley

Dec, 9 2013

Mom,

So ya my hives have gotten pretty bad....haha. on my arms, shoulders, neck, and even on my back. They are starting to look like when I first got them way back in the day. haha. I will talk to Sister Andrezzo to see what we can do. 

How was your week? 

Mine was a good week. Pat I loved the email my bro. Send a pic. I wanna see how big you have grown. haha. My little stud. Keep working hard my man. Sharia, thank for the letter a couple of weeks ago. Love you both. 

So this week I did a division with the assistants in an area that we just opened. Its a city that has never seen missionaries. The assistants have been working there for three weeks and I dont know why I was invited to go with them? haha. Maybe I will be transferred there and start working in Valença? I am not sure. Whatever the reason. It was a blast. It was cool because I have always had a good relationship with these two Elders. Elder Warner from Roseville. (He is in the Citrus Heights ward, Spence) And Elder Rodrigues who is from São Paulo but lived in Utah for almost 9 years. We have always been good friends during the mission and this three weeks made it even better. It was a blast to learn from them. This area is sweet. We have an old market place that is our church building and the missionaries that will be living there will live in the apt above the church. haha. Its a small town really close to the beach. Our baptisms there take place on the beach. So that is pretty cool. Its a great area with amazing people. I am excited to see whatever missionaries go there and hear about how they are doing. 

I will tell you all more about it during our christmas call. I am so excited for our chance to talk and see each other. Let me know what will be the best time for you guys. Mom, I am sorry this letter is short. haha. I am already out of time on here. I will send a longer one next week. I love you all and have a great week. 

ELder hadley

Dec 2, 2013

Dear Family,

Loves the letter! Sounds like everything is doing really well!! Mom, you dont need to send anymore things for my heat rash. haha. I have too much!! I am survivng and thats all that is important. During the day I dont even think about it. ALso, I really hope you guys sent a new camera.....haha. 

So like normal, this week was full of ups and downs. But we were still able to get a really good amount of people at church with us. That was cool. We met a couple this week and taught them. They came to church with us. I told them I wont baptize them because they are living together and aren't married (the most common thing here). So we are planning on a wedding here in a couple of weeks. haha. It should be sweet. I dont know though. They dont have a testimony about things yet so we need to focus on both marriage and a testimony. Because how can they recieve a testimony if they are not willing to repent? The blessings come as a consequence of our repentance and obedience. I beleive that marriage is a consequence of repentance. Or splitting up....But I am leaning more towards putting the ring on it. So lets see how this all works out. We are super excited about all of this. 

My family is....progressing. Slowly but surely. Continue to pray for them. We went to church with one of the members of the family last night.....it was...haha very very interesting. Gloria!! Gloria!!! haha. It was such a testimony buider of how the Spirit works...I did not one time feel the Spirit. And its not because they are bad people or anything like that. Its because the Spirit works as a still small voice. For sure. There are times where He will yell at us. But that wont happen very often. The only thing I felt there was the desire to dance. haha. They were rocking out on the drums and guitar. The guys playing were legit. The lady pastor was teaching....lots of false doctrine. It was so sad to see these people who are seeking for the truth and who want to become closer to God...are not finding it. The pastor said that --- The blood of the Lord will bring Justice--- I sat thinking....I wonder if these people understand in the Atonement...I wonder if they know that they can repent. How miserable that would be...thinking that we have to live and die in our sins... The blood of the Lord brought mercy and grace in the great plan of our Heavenly Father. Justice already existed. Thats why laws and commandments exist. If it werent for the perfect blood of the Perfect Son of God...The demands of justice wouldnt have been satisfied. And there would have been no way mercy could have existed. No way to repent. No way to return to love with our Father in Heaven again. This doctrine is so much deeper but lets just stop at the surface. haha. You all already know this but I just sat thinking how sad it must be....My dear family, help those who are around us. Help them know that because of the suffering of our Savior they can repent. And they must repent. Obviously, dont go teaching your friends that they need to repent or they are going to hell. Thats the missionaries jobs. haha. But teach them that they can repent. Give them hope in something bigger that can nurture their faith. Share the Gospel. I am so dissapointed with myself that I didnt try to do this more often before the mission. I could have made a difference in the lives of some of my friends. Well I couldnt have but at least I could have brought something that would have made that difference. Be better that fatty matty. Do work. 

So this week was super hot. Excpet one day it rained like its never rained before. Rivers covered the city. It was  crazy. haha. I mean...rivers. People in litts boats were traveling on the streets. haha. Cars were almost completely covered by water. It was crazy!!

I love you all family. I hopw you have a great week!! Continue to do your best!! Be safe!!

Elder Hadley

Nov 25, 2013

Alright family so this week was a little bit tougher than the last. Funny how that works right? One week you are on Cloud 9, and the next week you are falling from it and feel like you have face planted it into the earth. (Shout out to Katy Perry haha). Alright no but seriously, it was tough. ONly part of our family were able to go to church with us this Sunday. But I will tell you why in a second. One of the boys, Jefferson, who uses the wheelchair. Lost a part of his wheelchair that is pretty important. He doesnt know where it went. We had it in the Taxi when we got to the church but then when we returned and found the taxi driver he also didnt know where it was. So it honestly is a mystery what happened. But me and my comp know where we can get this part. Its not expensive so I will get him another one. SO the entire family didnt go because their church is talking lots of smack. Its okay, I am not worried. Its easy to see by what the family says everyday that they know the church is true and that the BOok of Mormon is the word of God. We will help them with their doubts and questions. We found some great people to teach. We were teaching them all week long but then out of nowhere they just decided they didnt want to go to church....What the freak! RIght? Its sad. But its all part of the missionary work. We can only do as much as we possibly can. Andwe have to repsect their agency. Something that isnt always super easy to do. Lets see...what else happened this week....President Andrezzo walked with us and made some visits last night. That was pretty cool. My comp is continuing to pregress with the language. He is a smart kid. I am not too worried about him. There have been quite a bit of shootings, more than normal, in our area this week. So we are having to be extra careful. We just need to be smart and go into the areas we know are safer. Its all good. This week really wasnt super exciting. We found lots of great people who ended up falling on the last day....sad but also normal. The family is doing great. We have other investigators who are also doing great. It would take me five hours on here to explain about them all. I dont have much time to do that. haha. But anyway, thats how my week was. I love you all. Remember to continue to listen to the Spirit in your everday lives. I often think to myself on the mission...Maybe there were tons of times throughout my life where I didnt pay attention to Him because I was busy doing something else. Maybe I missed an opportuity to help someone? Just be mindful and know that the Spirit will guide. We just have to let Him. Love you all. ELder Hadley

Nov 17, 2013

Family,

What a week for me and my companion!! It was amazing!

Sorry mom, I will try and write more. The truth is.....I dont know what to write. I want to share experiences with you guys. But I get to the computer and I just forget all of them. haha. Then we leave the computer and I remember them all. Or there are some that I would like to share with you all face to face. You know what I mean? But Thats lame of me! I will try to write more. So I will tell you about this week.

Something about me on the mission is that I talk to everybody I feel even the slightest urge to talk to. And I always pay close attention to everybody in the street. Always. If you pay close attention to them. The Spirit will help you discern if they are wanting to talk to you or not. For example, Saturday night we were walking to a recent converts house to share a message with her. As we were walking I saw three kids sitting on the sidewalk. They were looking at us closely. And I felt the urge to talk to them. So I told me comp to invite them to church. He did. They accepted and said they would go. Thats normal. As we started to leave I felt the urge to teach them. So we turned back around and taught them and reminded them about church. We said a prayer then left. 30 feet later I hear a women talking to a man. As we were walking by I heard her say to the man. ( I will go to any church that I get an invite to, I am trying to find God in my life) So after 10 feet past them I turned around and walked back to them. haha. It was like one of those smooth spin turns. It was funny. haha. I went back there to where they were. I pretended to be lost. To try and not make it be awkward. haha. So I pretended that I was lost and need directions to the street of where the church was. After they explained it to me and making them laugh a little bit. I invited them to church. Keep in mind, this was all Saturday night at like 8 at night. ha. Also keep in mind that everybody accepts to come to church to try and be nice. But its hard to get them there. haha. Anyway Sunday morning comes a long. And who do I meet? 2 of the three kids and the woman who said she would visit any church she gets an invite to. My family, pay attention to those around you. Pay close attention and the Spirit will see your desire to help and will let you know what to do.   

Second week of training my homeboy Elder Elliott from Springville Utah. He likes to work hard. That is good. We work well together. He has no fear. Which is great. 

So one experience. ME and my comp were walking home to eat lunch on Thursday. We had some appointments in the morning. When a girl who we had talked to earlier in the week stopped to talk to us. She wanted to know more about the Book of Mormon. I gave her one. Explained it and gave her a part to read. We got her address and promised to stop by on Friday. So we stopped by on Friday. She met us out on the street. I looked behind her when we were talking to her and saw her house was full of people. So, doing what I literally always do when I talk to a child or a teenager. I asked her if we could go inside and teach everybody. That is something I would suggest to you Pat and April. I dont know how things are in Canada. BUt always ask if you can teach the whole family. First get to know the person you are teaching. Show that person that you care about them and want to get to know them. Help them feel that you are focused just on them. Create trust and a friendship with them. THEN ask about their family and if it is possible to teach them all. I always say to the kids. Take us to your house. LEts go teach your whole family. haha. They love it. So anyway, we got inside the house and started teaching the whole family. It was awesome. The mom lives alone with her 9 children. 2 of them are paralyzed from the waste down. One has 18 years and the other has 14. The mom has a tough time but she is a good woman who loves God. The kids all are so obedient and payed such close attention. Anyway we taught them a lesson and The Spirit testified of what we were teaching. It was a wonderful lesson. Really was. Saturday after our baptism, me and our Bishop (he is the most amazing Bishop in Brazil, not a doubt in my mind) ran to find a member to give them a ride to go to church. So we show up to their house and they are all ready to go. The mom couldnt because she had to work. So the mom dropped the three little ones at a friends house and the other 6 came with us in the van. When I saw that whole family standing at the door waiting form me and my comp to get there I couldnt help but start to cry. Its a good thing I was sweating also so you wouldnt be able to see the tears haha. It was just a very humbling experience for me. So we pushed Eduardo (Boy 18) and Jefferson (Boy 14) in their wheelchairs to the car. While Jose (Girl 16) Beth (Girl 10) Edimilson (Boy 11) and Levi-Kywan (7) walked right next to us. We hauled everybody to church and they loved it more than I have ever loved a three hour block of church. haha. They told me that they will never miss a Sunday in their lives. So we will continue to teach and help them understand more about the Gospel. We are for sure going to focus on the Plan of Salvation this next lesson with them. And of course. Read out of the BOok of Mormon with them. (Another side note. Pat and April. You will have missionaries who only want to use the bible to teach. That is great! The Bible is amazing. I LOVE it! But....help them gain a testimony from the Book of Mormon. That is the gathering tool of Israel. I use the Book of Mormon to teach until they tell me to use the Bible. haha. Use the Bible. I use it a lot. But use the Book of Mormon more....That book has more power than we can understand). So now I ask my family, pray for this little family. There might be some kind of a rule in the missionary handbook about asking your family to pray and fast for investigators. Like we cant do that. But You dont need to fast. Just pray for them. Thank you. 

So Today is Pday right?; We got up early to get my comp to the airport to get his ID. Well he went with other missionaries. I am waiting for him in the office with my boy Elder Bestor. haha. Anyway. We get to Bom Preço. (Wal-mart). To take his photos. We get there and the photo center is not open!! A lady that worked there told me that the lady that works in the photo center always shows up super late. Later than 830 Well we had to be at the bus stop by 8. And it was already 715. So I said a prayer. Asking for help. The lady that works at the photo center showed up at 730. Then took his pictures. Then printed them off in 10 minutes when she usually makes people wait an hour. Game Ball goes to the Photo Center Lady at Bom Preço. hahaha. She was clutch. And also, the power of prayer is REAL.

ALright that is how my week was. Mom I love you and I am sorry I have been lame with emails. I will try and be better. They probably wont be this long again. haha. But they will be longer. And about the Camera, Just buy one that works. haha. And send it whenever you can. Talk to a doctor about my hives. Love you all. Pat and April, remember this. The Lord WILL bless the missionary who is obedient, works hard, and works SMART. We were able to be blessed with 14 people in church with us this Sunday. It was amazing. The Lord is the head of this work. That is true. Love you all and have a great week. 

Elder Hadley

Nov 10, 2013

I would like to share my testimony with all of you and declare with all of my heart that Jesus is the Christ. I have no doubt of that. I have no doubt of the power of the Atonement. My Brothers and Sisters. It is real. The Beloved Savior of the world did what no other child of our Father in Heaven could do. He satisfied the demands of Justice by taking on the sins of the world and permiting each of us to return to live with Him and our Loving Father in Heaven again. Our names are engraven upon the palms of His hands. He knows you. He loves you. Our Father in Heaven also knows you and He also loves you. The Prophet Joseph Smith is the Prophet of the Restoration. President Monson is our Prophet today. The Book of Mormon is the word of God. That Book has the power to change lives. 

Let us all remember our testimonies this Christmas season. And by doing so, let us give the greatest gift we as members of The Church have. The Gospel of Christ, and all that falls under that category. Give to others what they are seeking; Eternal Happiness and Peace. Brothers and Sisters remember who you are. Remember what you know.  Declare it to the world. Christ was born, He died, and lives again. I know that is true. In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, Amen.   

Elder Hadley

Oct 28, 2013

Family,

I love you all and it is great to hear from you. 

Things are great here in Brazil. We are working with a great group of investigators right now and I am loving it. Its just one reference after another. The members have really come to love and trust us. As well as our recent converts. Me and my comp have three transfers in this area. I am blessed to have this much time here.  Our bishop is also an amazing man. He is 32 and he does it all. Accounting, school, visits everybody in the ward. Probably the best bishop in Brazil. 

We had zone conference this last week. That was awesome. I love the chance to hear from President Andrezzo. He is a great example and a great man who is truly inspired from God. 

I am missing football.....I wont lie. I dont know why but I was thinking more than I should about football this last week. haha. I am a missionary not a Saint. (Ya sorry we cant all be Saints, Jerry) NAME THAT MOVIE!! haha

The heat is a bummer but I am getting used to it. I am sweating all the time so its impossible not to get used to it. haha. 

THis week was a great week for our dupla. We worked hard and got a lot done. These last three transfers have been great for me. I have learned a lot about missionary work and about myself. 

I love you all. I pray for you all. Carsons Headstone is absolutely amazing. Couldnt have been more Perfect. Keep being amazing!!

Elder Hadley

Oct 21, 2013

Family,

What an amazing week I was able to have these past 7 days. I have been able to see the hand of the Lord in my life and in the life of others in very real and special ways. Its great to hear all is well. I hope Pat, Sharia, and Michelle are not stranded on some island. ITs been away since I have heard from their ugly selves.

This week was great. Except it rained a ton!!! Rain like I have never seen before. Rich it was exactly like that one night in the car when we were driving through Missouri...I think?... When that huge rain storm hit and we couldnt see anything. It was raining like that for three days. It was tough to work but the Lord helped us. What made it so tough was the fact that we are climbing up and down stairs all day. Huge waterfalls were taking us over. haha. But we were still able to have success. 

We have two more weeks of this transfer left. I hope I have the chance to stay in this area for at least one more. It will be a great fourth transfer in this area. We are teaching very many elects. What I noticed this week was how we can find people in so many different ways. I will have to tell you all the stories when I get home. And I will show you some pictures. 

I hope all is well with you guys. Keep on loving the Lord and showing Him that you love Him through your actions. Make right choices. I had the chance to talk in sacrament meeting yesterday and I talked about the Atonement. It was a great opportunity to help the ward. 

I love you guys and dont forget to get involved with the missionaries. Help them. Give them references. Go with them to teach. I wish I would have done more of that. Kepp being awesome. I am praying for you and love you all. Be safe. 

PS My birthday was awesome. My district surprised me with a cake at district meeting and we played dominoes in the church until the rain calmed down. Then went to lunch. Had a great teaching day. Then afterwards President and Sister Andrezzo called me and said they wanted to pass by with a cake but they are in Itabuna at a Zone conference. So they sang to me on the phone and we talked for a while. It was a great day. Once again, Love you all and be good. 

Elder Hadley

October 7, 2013

Family,

Happy Birthday to everybody that has a birthday this month. I love you all and wish you an amazing birthday wish. Mom no need to put money into my account. To be honest I havent even used my card one time. haha. No need to use it. 

So This week was fantastic. Like you all had the chance to see and listen to conference was amazing. I listened to about 75% of it in english. I was able to understand everything in portuguese I just wanted to watch it in English because its just not the same in another language. 

What a weekend. We traveled to Amaralina the chapel there is right on the beach and it was gorgeous aka (very hot) weather. BUt We were indoors so it was okay. I had the chance to talk a lot with my mission president about conference. We both were very grateful for the talks on enduring through challenging times. I dont think being a mission president would be the easiest thing. Especially one as amazing as mine. He talked a lot to me about the rareness of our family. How we are very united. This is something I have always been very grateful for.  

What an emotional and dominating performance by so many of our leaders of the church. The Spirit was touching the hearts of everyone that was listening. To this I have no doubt. 

Family, please continue to heal. The year of 2013 hasnt exactly been the number 1 most fun year for the Hadley and Clyde family. It has been full of many trials and hardships. I loved Elder Hollands and the Prophets talk because I feel like at times we hear these great powerhouse men speak to us and we think they dont have problems. And if they do ever have a problem. It doiesnt even bother them. I loved what President Erying said ( I think it was him i forgot my notes in our apartment) when he talked about how nobody is safe from trials and sin. Nobody. Its part of like my sweet family. I was reading about a pioneer family in Our Herritage the other week and it talked about the sweet story of a family on the trek to Salt Lake. They had 12 kids in the family to start the voyage and the sweet mother was ready to deliver another. When the trail became horrible for the saints this family suffered. in one week time 7 children had died. And over the next couple of days 3 more died. Then a couple of days after. The mother passed away giving birth. Along with the baby. 

Trials are meant to come. Because we are the chosen for these latter-days. The Lords would not have placed us here if He didnt know that we were ready for it. Obviously we had proved ourselves in the life before. So let us prove ourselves again. And continue on. As Elder Holland said onSaturday. 

If the bitter cup will not pass, drink it and be strong.

I love you and I am here to tell you that all things will come to pass. All things will pass. Hold onto what you know is true. Dont ever let go of that. If we do this then the Lord will bless us with our own palace in the Kingdom of Heaven. Together Forever. 

Elder Hadley

Sept 16, 2013

Mandi
LOVED the pics! You girls look fantastic. Get me pics of the family thing if you can.

hahaha. I know you love your power. That is great about your job. I am praying for you and G every night. Trust in the Lord and he will deliver. 

You better keep talking to her about me. She cannot forget me. My little princess. I email April every week giving advice about the mission. ha. OUr missions will be probably complete opposites. but o well. It will help her. 

I think its a boy. Name him Matthew. Matthew McCoy. Thats legit. Thats a cowboy name. Anyway. I love you and am pryaing for you. Be safe.

Sept 16, 2013

Mandi
LOVED the pics! You girls look fantastic. Get me pics of the family thing if you can.

hahaha. I know you love your power. That is great about your job. I am praying for you and G every night. Trust in the Lord and he will deliver. 

You better keep talking to her about me. She cannot forget me. My little princess. I email April every week giving advice about the mission. ha. OUr missions will be probably complete opposites. but o well. It will help her. 

I think its a boy. Name him Matthew. Matthew McCoy. Thats legit. Thats a cowboy name. Anyway. I love you and am pryaing for you. Be safe.

Sept 30, 2013

I love you all and hope all is well.

I dont have a whole lot to say other than the work is moving forward. I am working really really hard. And I am excited for conference this weekend. It is really hot. Thats lame. But its all good. I have had the chance to meet a lot of great people. Even though they dont really like the USA they love me. haha. 

I hope everyone is healing. I sure am. That article was amazing. Well done Jeff. Its amazing how the Atonement can work through others. Even when they arent involved and they probably arent even recognizing it. But they are no doubt instruments in the healing power of the Saviors forgiveness. The Savior knows what we need and how we need it. Amazing. 

Spencer and family. Think for just a minute. In 100 years non of us will even put a seconds thought into this. haha. Thats some good news right? 

No but seriously. Yes its hard. All of it. But try and focus only on the eternal percpetive of all of this. Like I know you all are doing anyway. 

I love you all and even though its starting to get pretty hot. All is good here. I love you all and keep being awesome. 

Elder Hadley

Sept 23, 2013

I love you both so very much. Thank you for your unbelievable examples to me and the kids and the rest of the world.

July 22, 2013

Family,

I will be short this week due to time. But not a lot happened this week. Just still working and working and working. haha. Life of a missionary. 

My health is great. Everything else is great. We have some great investigators with amazing stories. I will share some of those another time....maybe..

The weather is still hot and rainy. I still walk up and down stairs for 7 and a half hours. But its all good. haha. The ward is great. I still miss my first area but am enjoying it here. 

This work is true and The Book of Mormon is the word of God. 

I love you all and be safe. Again, sorry this is short. It was a pretty normal week on the mission. Always strengthening your testimony and always working hard. Hope all is well. 

Elder Hadley

July 15, 2013

Hey family,

So this week was a good one. Working with the new comp is different then with my trainer but thats normal right? Not everybody is the same. haha. Lots and lots and lots of stairs. All day everyday. But great great people here. I love the poeople in Salvador. So many want to hear the Gospel. 

So we did a service project this week that involved hacking down 6 feet tall shrubry with machetes. haha. It was legit. I was a freak. Me and Elder Swift, (My district leader) Hacked and hacked and hacked. haha. It was a blast. I sliced my thumb pretty good but It was on one of the shrubs or something. I think. But it got my pretty deep. Dont worry though. I used my little first aid kit. Its all good. haha. We worked a long time. 

I knocked on a door and was talking to a man he then asked what part of the states I was from. IN ENGLISH!! haha. So we talked in english and I taught and gave him a book of mormon. SOOOO much easier. haha. He is a lawyer that studied in South Carloina. He is a great guy but it was hard to get a hold of him this week because he works so much. BUt we arent giving up. 

We had some gret lessons this week where the Spirit was really strong. 

The Lord has really blessed me and helped me with the language. I am very grateful for that. 

The weather is on and off all day everyday. It will jsut pour rain on us for 20 minutes. Then fry us in the sun for an hour. Then get dumped on again. Then sun. Then rain. Then sun. So its not very fun but o well. haha. Not a big deal. 

I love you all and hope you are all being good. Mom I am going to the office today to see if I got your package. Again I love you all. And read your scriptures!!

Elder Hadley

July 8, 2013

Hey fam,

So this week was difficult. I miss Porto Seguro a lot and hope some day I can return and talk with the wonderful memebers of the church and all of the other people I had the privilege of meeting. 

So I am in Salvador. My area is Bandeirontes. It is litterally all stairs. I walk up and down stairs all day. Houses stackes on top of houses and really narrow alley ways to get to the houses. I will send some pictures when I can. But I kid you not. It is only stairs and really steep hills. Up and down. Up and down. My legs and behind are going to get huge. haha. 

Its a great ward. Our bishop is 32 years old and works harder than I have ever seen anyone work. Everyone on the mission says he is the best bishop in Bahia and possibly Brazil. I wouldnt doubt it. 

My new comp only speaks portuguese. He is from Belem. He is a convert to the church and has a great testimony. He works hard and I think we will work great together. I live with two other elders as well. Elder Gehring. who was in my district in provo mtc. And our DL Elder Swift. Those two guys are awesome. haha. We talk all the time. Elder Swift knows Spencer. He worked as a equipment guy for the football team when spence was a freshman. Great to talk a little football with someone. haha

My area is full of great people but also has some rough crowds. We try to avoid those areas but we have some investigators there so we have to go. Its all good. The Lord is looking after us. 

Last night we visited a man who was less active and he and I just chatted and we read the scriptures together. And it reminded him of how he felt when he read and how much he loves the Book of Mormon. Then gave him a blessing and he stood up and right away, I mean almost jumped up in the air (he is 72 years old) and loudly explaimed that he has never felt this way before. He feels like a different man. And vowed he would never miss church and never miss a day again reading in the Book of Mormon. 

This gospel is true and it touches peoples lives in a way that is difficult to explain. I am grateful for the chance I have to be here. Its tough but the Lord remembers His servants and helps us out. 

Tha language is continuing to progress. I love you all and hope you all are safe. Thank you for the updates. Keep being good. 

Elder Hadley

July 1, 2013

Family,
So not much to report this week. It was a normal week. The only
difference is I found out I am leaving to salvador. Transfer. I leave
tomorrow night on another 14-15 hour bus ride and its impossible to
sleep on those buses.
It will be hard to leave I have met incredible people and leaving
those that we have been teaching will be even harder. But they are in
good hands. The Spirit was really strong in a lot of our lessons this
week and I know that will continue no matter where I am.
The language has really taken a jump up. The Lord has really been
helping me and so have the people here in this area. Its nice to have
them all here. And the other Elders help a lot as well.
So I was studying the other night and found some scriptures I like a
lot. Ill share them with you.
DC 101
35 And all they who suffer persecution for my name, and endure in
faith, though they are called to lay down their lives for my sake yet
shall they partake of all this glory.

36 Wherefore, fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is
not full, but in me your joy is full.

37 Therefore, care not for the body, neither the life of the body;
but care for the soul, and for the life of the soul.

38 And seek the face of the Lord always, that in patience ye may
possess your souls, and ye shall have eternal life.


DC 84
88 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 hearts, and mine dangels round about you, to
bear you up.

Loved these. and love you all. be safe

Elder hadley

June 24, 2013

Family,
Good week this last week. We had some great lessons with some great people. The work is still kind of slow but Miracles always will occur after the trial of our faith right?

So the language has made a huge stride. And Its been arriving well for me. We are teaching some great investigators and they are slowly progressing. Its tough to get them to church but we are working on it.

So our street outside our house always plays music really loud. The same 5 songs all day and all night. BUt this last week I have been getting classic rock and motown. Along with lots of Shania twain and alan jackson. haha. And its always the loudest during my personal study. Not Cool. Almost impossible to focus cause I just want to sing a long. Especially when James Browns, This is a mans world, comes on. hahaha. I have been singing that all week and my cmomp wants to kill me. And then Celene Dions Titanic song comes on and you already know I am singing that all day. haha. They will even play the whole ricky soundtrack and I want to strap on the tie and teach the entire city. hahaha. So there are some pros and cons to the music.

I love this area. I dont want to leave. Hopefully I can stay longer but we get our transfers next week so who knows what will happen? Anyway, I love you all and hope you are all being safe and doing well. I am obssesed with the iogurte here. Its amazing. They have flavors of fruits I have never heard of. haha. I eat iogurte with my quaker oatmeal mixed with corn flakes and I cut bannans in it every morning for breakfast and for dinner. Its too good. Honestly, all of the food is good here.
We found we still have rats living with us So I put on my Dual Survival thinking cap and created three amazing traps with trip wires today. I know they will work. haha. Our bate is unreal.

Anyway I love you all and I hope you are being good. Stay safe. Love you

Elder Hadley

June 10, 2013

Family,
So this week was a great week. We met a lot of great people and had some fantastic lessons taught. I hope all is well with you.
So it was hot really hot until wednesday and it has rained ever since. Reminds me of when Rich and I were driving through Misouri on our trip together. Crazy rain. So we met a family and we taught them about the Book of Mormon and the mother of the family wanted one and said in one week she would ahve it read. We have never had someone accept it that quickly. We check up on them tomorrow. Hopefully she at least read the part we assigned. The Spirit was really working in the lesson.
So Friday comes and President and Sister Andrezzo stopped by and had interviews. They said our house was the cleanest they had seen. Naturally. So we come home Friday night and Right as I turn on this light I see this rat dart in our room. The hunt was on. He climbed up in my bed through the bottom. Then he darted in Elder Silvas. So we flipped the bed upside down and out he comes. He takes off out into the main room where Elder Silva was, thats when I yelled (Silva, Contact!!!) hahaha. Too much call of duty. So Silva takes some swings and misses. The rat jumps up on the matress we had placed to block a door way to the kitchen. And wham!! I bring the hammer of Thor on him right as he got to the top and lights out. Thats when I yelled (Tango down...) hahaha. Again, too much call of duty. we we took care of this guy. He had lived under our beds for some time. Elder Silva found 20 reis (money) under his bed. haha. score.
So it was a great Spiritual week with great lessons and we also got a kill. Love you guys and be safe.

elder Hadley

June 3, 2013

Mom I love you so much. Stay strong. Hey just go listen to Blake Sheltons song Baby. I know its sad ending. haha. But...Its our song. So go listen to it. It will make you feel better. I have been singing it all week.
So family,
I love you all and hope all is well. This week was hot..really hot. Until Friday adn Saturday the weather decided to dump gallons and gallons of rain. Friday I was not prepared for it so I was soaked all day. We had two come to church this Sunday!!! About time. They both are young men adn have great Spirits. Amazing to see the Lord work his miracles. I felt the Spirit so stron in some of our lessons this week. I testify that God is very aware of each one of His children. And will bear testimony to them if they are ready for it.
So that sums up my week. I have some more dunk guys and anti americans get in my face a time or two. But instead of giving them a push out of my way I have decided to teach them the gospel and invite them to church. haha.
So this week I studied 2 times Alma 17-28.
Family, Study these chapters this week for me will you? There are power and in the words written in these chapters. Study them will real intent and really paying attention to every verse. I wept like a child reading about the Anti-Nephi-Lehis. And the thing is. I have read about them many times. But I dont know. I just found some things in there that I didnt before. Study these chapters and have a desire to know them well. They can teach us missionaries how to be better missionaries. And they teach us Saints how to be better Saints.
Scriptures for the day: Alma 28:6 and 12. Study and ponder them. I would tell you what I got from them but then you wouldnt read them yourselves. Find joy and comfort in these scriptures.
Okay actually I want to talk about them a little bit. But you still need to read them.
Verse 6: I want to testify of the power of a true fast and prayer. And how even when we are in our darkest or or brightest times. We should use it. Prophets from the time of Adam have taught to fast and pray. The Savior HImself, the very Redeemer of all manking went into the wilderness and fasted for 40 days and 40 nights. (And it is my belief he fasted often throughout His ministry. It says in Matt 4:1 (JST) He went to the Wilderness to be with God. I testify that real and intense fasting and prayer brings us closer to our Father in Heaven. Something we all need, always. If the very Son of God thought it was important to fast, I think it is important. If He found strength in fasting and praying. And He is a God. No question we as mortals men and women can find Strenght Beyond Our Own.

Verse 12: These people lost many loved ones in war. After Fasting and Praying. They were able to rejoice knowing they will be raised with God in a neverending state of happiness. The loss of our precious Carson eats at our souls. And no doubt will until we can hold him in our arms again. But I testify that that sweet little boy will be raised to dwell at the right hand of the Very Supreme Being who created us, and loves us with more love than can be measured. So when you day is hard. And I know everyday is hard. Please remember where Carson is and who he is with. And where we all can be one day. If we keep our covenants we have made with Our Father in Heaven.

I made it a goal to sutdy those chapters as often as I can. I pray you all will as well. I love you all very much and am praying for you. Dont worry about ol Matty boy. He keeps it real Na Bahia!! Again I love you all and I have made it a goal to fast once a week.

Love you,
Elder Hadley

Pictures from Elder Hadley

May 13th, 2013

Family, 

I will get on a little later today. I am sure you are all sleeping. It was so great to see and hear you all. Cant tell you how much I needed that. Sorry for getting emotional last night, that wasnt my intention. I just cant tell you how grateful I am for you guys and for Eternal Famalies. Its such a blessing....

I love you all and hope you have a good week.!

O ya and Mom, Amanda, Michelle, and Nicole!! Happy Mothers Day!! I forgot to tell you all! haha.

Love, 

Elder Hadley

May 6th, 2013

Family, 

So I dont have much time so I might be quick but I will let you know what happened a little this week. 

So lots of more crazy experiences happened to me and some things I have never seen before. Some very good and some very bad. I wont talk about the bad things. For another time maybe. But Lets talk about the good things. 

We are working very hard with three investigators. Valdomir, Luis, Vanderlei. 

Valdomir is a man who after reading with him in the BOok of Mormon this week we asked him to pray about it right there with us. He gave a very heart felt and powerful prayer. When he was done we were all silent for close to 5 minutes. He then told us he has a feeling in his heart he cant describe. He knows the church is true and he has to be baptized. But.....He didnt come to church....Im heart Broken...We will stop by to see what happened tonight. 

Luis, this is a man who wants to change his life. This guy walked from São Paulo to Porto Seguro. He WALKED, it took him 6 months. He walked with a Bible and a journal to write about his account. He wants to be better so badly. He has such a strong testimony. He knows the Church is true. He has read lots of the Book of Mormon. But we stopped by his house yesterday as well. And....Nothing. He wasnt even home. We had made plans with him to go to church with him. And he wasnt home. Again...Very Heart Broken. We will also stop by tonight to see whats going on. 

Vanderlei. 10 years old. He came to church with his Grandmother. This kid loves me. haha. We talk all the time even though he always tells me I talk funny. haha. I have been teaching him to practice my Portuguese. He asked me two days ago if I will baptize him. ha. So I baptize him on the 18th of this month. Great kid who is very very shy but always talks to me. ha. Good kid. His family is awesome. I think his mom and dad will be baptized as well. We have just started tot teach them. 

It was a hard working week but it could always be better. Very very very hot. haha. And I am told this is normal. This isnt even the hottest. Wait till summer. I sweat all day and all night. O well. I am used to it now. I love you all and hope all is well. keep being good boys and good girls. I am thrilled for April and Crystal and Hannah. What amazing young women. The Lord will bless them very much for their service. 

Again I love you all. And tell Brett Clyde I will kill him because I havent heard from him. And thats a promise. Okay I am going to try to send pics now. love you all. 

Elder Hadley. 

April 29th, 2013

Family,

First off, this is the easiest way to write me. It is faster and I can print off your letters and read them. We do thirty min in the morning for my friends and I print your letters. Then 30 min in the afternoon to answer my family.

Alright, I am going to get a bit mushy. I was brought to tears because of the detailed letters you all send. I know it may not seem like a big deal but I really cannot understand why I was so lucky to be placed in the family I was placed in. I love you all very much. Thank you for your examples to me.

Okay now about the week. First off, early in the week i came to know I dont know the language as well as I thought. haha. We were teaching and it was my turn to teach the first vision and I completely forgot what I was going to say. Like I forgot every portuguese word I have ever learned. haha. And we sat there for like 5 minutes in silence. Literally almost 5 minutes. Ya that was humbling to me. Hoenstly I speak to everyone. I dont even care if I speak wrong, they can always understand me because they have to pay more attention. Members in teh branch tease me because I conjugate things wrong or stuff. But I try anyway. The youth tease me alot. But i have the attitude that it really doesnt bother me at all. Although they do say my accent is really good. But some say I sound Italian because I fluctuate my voice too much. haha. O well.

Okay so we were tracting into the ghetto area. And all of a sudden this guy comes out with a giant faka or sword. I think there is another word for it i cant remember. It is used to cut grass. anyway, He comes out of  his house going to kill someone. haha. Comes to find out the guy he went after and was running away from him kicked a ball and hit his 3 year old son. This dude was crazy. But we wanted to teach him anyway. So the next day we went to go teach him and he loves the bible and wants to hear lots more. He wants to read the book of Mormon. haha. Crazy! This guy had a sword and was ready to kill someone.

Next day we are teaching a young man who has a problem with drugs and really wants out. So he asked to meet with us. Right before we were about to teach him this old lady comes in and starts talking to him and from what I could tell that she said, she said God is not happy with you win you sin and doesnt love you and he wants this nasty demon inside of you out and so she put her hand on his head and one in the air (this is all right in fron of us). haha. And just starts creaming and yelling trying to cast this Devil out of him? haha. She was saying things like, Come out of him, The Lord wants you back, I have the gift of tounges and I can save you and then she would go off in some other language. Freakin weird. Anyway we taught him after and he loved it and he came to church with us yesterday. He is a really good kid and wants out of drugs.

Okay so the thing here is family fotos, they all want to see my fotos. So as they look through them the same thing happens. They say, What happened to these two? (pointing to Garlan and Nate). Then I always reple, Yes the are unattractive, infact quite frightening. But we love them anyway because we try to follow Christs example to love one another. Then we lead into Christs Ministry. And the first lesson. The Spirit is so strong. So nate and G thank you for looking the way you do. You invite the Holy Ghost to every first lesson.

Also, everyone asks your names. And they all are in love witht the name SPENCER. When they hear me say it they all just say, wow that is so beautiful, wow I love that name. Then they repeat it like 10 times.....I know Rich, I am just as confused as you are. haha.

So we taught lots of lessons and were able to contact many news. I love inviting people to come to church or asking if we can come teach them. They always accept. And they always accept baptism. haha. The people here are great.

With the language, it is difficult. But the solution is to just SPEAK, they will understand you because of the Spirit and they love to hear the American talk to them. It means a lot to them.

Okay I love you all very much. Remember who you are. In Romans 8 we can read Pauls testimony about us being Children of God and He will never abbandoned us. We have experienced, we are experiencing, and we will experience hard  times. We go through hard times because the Savior went through the hardest of times. I have been thinking about the Atonement A LOT lately. Christ felt the pains of every person who has walked the earth. He knows how to succor us. IF we let Him. He can and He will heal us. Read Romans 8. Great Ch. and I am out of time. I love you all very much. And love hearing from you.

Elder Hadley

Monday, April 22nd

Family,
So I had my letter all typed out and the computer failed and erased it all.....Wow I am pissed. So I will try to remember what I said.
First, Mom i was looking at who you forwarded my last letter to. And that profile picture doesnt look like our April. haha.
Okay lets talk about this place. Very Poverty stricken but the people are great. We have 8 solid investigators that I think will get baptized next Satuday. We will see how it goes. I am really praying for them hard.
Okay so the other night I got bit by a Bug and woke up in the middle of the night because it was itching so badly. I went to the bathroom to look at it and I had a bite on my neck a little bit bigger than a golf ball bulging out of my neck. it freaked me out a little. So I put some itch stuff on it and said a prayer asking to get rid of it. I feel asleep and woke up the next morning and it was completely gone. Bigger than a gold ball to literally nothing there. Crazy. So we had lunch at a members house the other day and she made this vegatable mush type stuff and she told us to get a big plate full of it. It didnt look too bad so I did. I tasted it and it tasted like she took one of those beef cow salt tablet bricks and she cooked the entire thing with the vegtables. It litterally was like I was scraping mush off of the bottom of the Dead Sea or the Great Salt Lake, whichever is saltier, and putting that bite into my mouth. Wow...The Lord helped me eat all of it. So I taught my first lesson the other day when I was on a aplit with one of our Zone Leaders. Elder Smith. I committed the man to baptism. Elder Smith said he thinks tha man will go through with it. I hope he is right. Elder Silva and I taught a group of girls and they really wanted to hear me teach in english. So I did and elder Silva translated. It went really well and the Spirit was very strong. When I was with Elder Smith we had lunch at a members house and she had a friend come over to her house to eat with us. This firend was freakin crazy. She kept grabbing my hands and putting her hands on my back and shoulders and I told her she couldnt do that. But she kust kept saying how beautiful I was and how I looked like a German God?!? haha. She was nuts. Then I was giving the lunch message and she was like repeating everything I said...haha. Wow...
So we had church yesterday and let me tell you we have the most gorgeous primary kids on the planet. There is a young girl who has light brown skin, blonde hair, and like white sky blue eyes. So pretty. And Moroni is already my little homie, he followed me everywhere. haha. The youth are great. A girl gave a talk and it was really good. She is the leader of all the youth. You can tell she knows the scriptures. She was quoting left and right. Nobody can say my name, they say (Ardlee, Aidlee) other weird stuff. haha. So The theacher called on me to read in class and i was like, ya i will try. and they all started to laugh and I was thinking o great, this is going to be rough. haha. But I actually read really well and when I was finished they were all saying, Congrats, Great job Elder, Really good job. They cheered for me like I was baby taking his first steps. haha. Our house is not so nice. It is a home for a family of Lizards. Maybe that is what bit me. The food is so good here but I need a cheeseburger haha. tell Nate and Ariana i have a bakery like 10 steps from me and they sell pão de queso there and they are HUGE and only for 40 centavos. I live off those, pasta, and chocolate milk.
Hey my camera doesnt work too well I might have to buy cheap ones down here. For some reason it only stays on for like 5 seconds. But then randomly it will work. I dont know it will be fine. Okay I am out of time. I love you all. remember what Lehi counciled his sons and What King Benjamin counciled his people. When He said, inasmuch as ye keep the commandments, you WILL prosper. I love you all. Be good and be safe.

Elder Hadley

Mission Field

Wednesday, April 17, 2013
My Family!!! How is everyone?
So I am in my area. Baianão a little area, it is next to Porto Seguro which is the big city. That is where the chapel is. A lot of good people and very poor area. It really makes me think of my problems in a whole different way. I miss everyone very much. This is harder than I thought. Just because of the language barrier. I can understand a lot of what they say and can speak back fairly correctly. The AP said he thinks I should have the language down in no more than two months. He says he was blown away with how well I could speak. Surprised me to be honest. Ha. It gave me a lot of confidence.
So I woke up and left the CTM in Sao Paulo at 4 am. Then We got tot the airport and they made me check a third bag. I was told I would have to pay a huge expense. With the help of an Elder traveling with me who speaks Portguese and English and of course, a miracle from the Lord, I could check all 3 and no fee. I was praying so hard. The lady just let me check them. Crazy stuff. So I arrived in Salvador. SO HOT!!!!!! I cant even explain to you how hot it is. And we are starting to come into winter. Stupid.... Anyway crazy stuff. So I was taken with four other elders to the Presidents house where we ate and we were trained and we were assigned our trainers. I am with Elder R. Silva. This guy is the man. A good looking tall buff Brazillian. haha. He has helped me a ton already and it is only our first day in the area. Our PDay is Monday but he said he wants me to write my family because he knows it would be really hard for me and he feels bad for me. But he wants to work work work work work. And so do I. The President put the right two guys together.
So we left Salvador last night at 8 and got on a bus. 13 hour long bus ride. haha. Shoot me in the face. It was not fun. We arrived in our area. We were taken to our apartment. I have pictures and a video I will send Monday. And I will tell you more about the area on Monday. All I can say is The houses are stacked on top of each other. Mom and Amanda. Imagine HAiti. That is exactly what it is like. Minus, the streets are a tad bit cleaner here and the shops are cleaner. But the houses. The exact same. A member fed us food. AWESOME food!! Loved it. Cutest little family. We are now out contacting and inviting people to come to church. They all say they will come and be baptized. haha. We have stopped three guys and they agreed. Crazy stuff. So ya, all around the houses it is straight jungle with obnoxious monkeys but cute little things. A great area. Google map it if you want.
That is great to hear everyone is safe. I feel safer here in Brasil. Our Country is not doing so well. SO GOOD to read about Nicole and little Codster. I need pics of the little man sent my way. I love you all so very much and everything is going very well here.
It is hard, a lot harder than I thought. I was sent to the poorest area in the mission with the most work to do. I know I can do it. I just NEED the Language so I can teach!! I can teach what I need to teach but sometimes when I ask questions and they dont give me a simple answer...that is when it is tough. But Elder Silva is helping me and we are going to get a lot of work done.
Again I love you all and pray for each of you everyday. Again, my PDAY is Monday. We have one hour and we can write whoever we want. Mom if you can, get me Tysons, Kades, Chandlers, and Austins email. Okay Love you all very much. be good and please be safe.
PS I should have brought less stuff. haha.
Love Elder Hadley

Brazil!!!!!

April 10, 2013

Dear Family,

So let me break it down for you quickly. We are givin like no time on these things in this MTC. I love you all very much.

Brazil is an amazing country but people are nuts. The driving is crazy and people do not care about their lives. The language is coming a long well but I still feel as if i am nervous about it. I get out there next week. I will have more time to write more then.

We are heading into winter now and the weather is gorgeous. It is really humid but bearable. I love the saints here, all very happy and willing to work with us missionaries. They come in as volantarios to teach all of the time. It is an amazing thing to see. The city is pretty poverty stricken. The People don't have much but you can tell are very happy. They are always willing to talk to you and get to know you. Me and my companions, (both american) went out last thursday for an hour and placed 6 book of mormons. The Lord was with us and helped us speak with the people. He wants His work to move forward, so if we are willing to try, He will help us. I love you all very much and will fill you in more next week when I get out in the field. As I said, we have no time to email here. haha. frustrating but its all good.

I went to the sao paulo temple today. Ama\ing experience. I put mom dad tom glenda nicole and boyds name in the temple. I felt like i really needed to. I hope everyone is doing well. We talked to some poeple out on the street the other day and life is not easy for them. Infact it is very very hard. But they love God and want to know how He can help them. And He can help them. I will write more next week. My time is up. i love you all and pray for you all.

God bless.

Love

Elder hadley

Cookies Please

March 29, 2013
Mandi,
Haha!! Nice! I dropped you a letter in the mail today so I'll let you read that tomorrow. Cookies!! Your Cookies are already legend here. haha, ya I had to put those times down on the table. It will show who really loves me haha. How is Duke? I last hear they were in the sweet 16? Indiana is out?!? dang... I love these pictures. It isn't letting me watch videos right now. But I am going to jump onto another computer in a little bit to see if it works on that one. These computers in the laundry room are gay.
Love you!

P.S. I'm embarrassed about your City League team....

Visa

March 29, 2013

MOM AND DAD!!!

MY VISA SHOWED UP!!!

I will call you some time tonight. BE BY THE PHONE!! Anytime from 9-10. It has to be before 10 so I will call you before then. So don't be ready by 10:01.

have everyone in the family email me so I can get their email address.

LOVE YOU

 

mhadley@myldsmail.net

To Family March 29. 2013

March 29, 2013
How is everyone?
Mother I am so grateful for the letters and quotes you send. They help me out very much. And I love reading about what is going on back home. And Dad, I love hearing from you as well....o wait. I don't hear from you. I hope you're doing alright big guy. Love you.
Happy late Birthday April and happy early birthday Rich.
This past week is honestly not much different than the week before. It is difficult to find what to say because it honestly is the same. I wake up, study study study study study, eat, have class twice in the day, eat some more and then go to sleep.
The language is becoming a little more challenging but the Lord is absolutely helping me with it. It can be frustrating at times when we are teaching someone. But when you allow yourself to get frustrated and focus on what to say. The Spirit can't guide you on what to teach.
I guess actually now that I think about it a few things have changed. Our Branch got so big we had to make a brand new one. Our district was placed in the brand new one. So now I have the chance to work with a different branch Presidency. They are a great group of men. I miss our old branch presidency already. But I see them around quite a bit. It's all good. This next week we will have 40 new Portuguese speaking missionaries. The week after 75 new Port missionaries. And then the week after that, 125 new Portuguese speaking missionaries arrive. Crazy!! It's funny, I am already forgetting how to spell English words because I will write out the Portuguese word first. haha. I can't say it enough. The Lord is really helping me understand the concepts and remember vocabulary. My accent is progressing as well. My teachers tell me I sound native. Pretty humbling to hear that from them. I am very grateful the Lord has helped me so much.
Another thing that is new. Last Saturday we had our first TRC session. That is when we teach a volunteer from the area. They come in, we get to know them. Ask them what they are in need of help with or what they want to hear from us. And then we teach. Our first lesson was a very recent RM that goes to the Y. He was more nervous than me and my companion were. He said he was struggling to have patience with difficult things in his life. We then taught him about the council the Lord gives Joseph while in Liberty. A section we all know well. We then taught him the patience Nephi had throughout his whole journey to the promised land. He gets set back to get the plates. No complaint. His Brothers beat him and tie him up. No complaint. His bow breaks. No complaint. He is asked to build a boat. No complaint. He deals with so much and he always found a way to get through it. Hard tasks and dealing with his obnoxious brothers for that long would not be easy. (I know what that is like). But by Putting his trust in the Lord, he accomplished what he needed to and he had the patience to get through it. We had more we wanted to say but we ran out of time. 30 minutes isn't enough. haha. It was a great experience and a lot of confidence was gained.
I was readying in 2 Nephi and in ch. 31...I believe? He talks about how his writings are plain and how the Lord rejoices in plainness. He also talks about how the Lord will help those understand even if they have difficulty understanding. The Lord will speak to them in their language and their understanding. I have come to realize that. The Book of Mormon is written to be understood. It is so importante that we get our investigators into that book. They will feel something when they read it. And with our help, they can know of the Doctrine of Christ. The Book of Mormon is here on the earth to gather the lost tribes of Israel. I know that is true.
It's weird, I think I told Spence about this. I honestly have an addiction to read out of the scriptures now. My study habits have always been pretty good. But sometimes I would look at it as a chore and not really "enjoy" it. I can't put the New Testament and the Book of Mormon down. It's like I have to know what happens next. But... I'm sure you all know what I am talking about because you all are so much more Spiritual than me.
My companion is awesome. He is always looking to serve me. He struggles with the language but is getting better. He loves the gospel and loves to work hard.
It is amazing being here. I was pretty bitter my Visa didn't come in time but I am so happy now that it didn't. Also, the travel office said that Brazil Visas will be here no later than 6 weeks. HA! Ya right. I've stopped really caring when it will come. Because I've heard so many different stories. I'll go where I need to go.
I love this gospel and I am grateful for my family. I pray for you constantly. It's crazy to think I only have two and a half weeks left in here. I don't feel really prepared with the language but I know that the Lord will provide. As long as I do my part. I would like to council everyone to PRAY and PRAY OFTEN. Always have a prayer in your heart. The power of prayer is so strong and is so important. I love the council Alma gives his son Helamen when he tells him to council with Lord in all of his doings. Of course there are things we don't need to pray about. And you all are smart enough to know what those things are. But I would just advise you to pray for the things you are in need of. The Lord will help us if we have faith and are diligent.
I know this is the Lords work. I know He loves us and knows us by name. Eu amo Voces!

Elder Hadley

I really love all of your letters. They mean a lot.

Funny Matt

Matt's response to this pictures I emailed him of Emma.......

"Gorgeous baby. 6 Sisters have walked by and said how gorgeous she is. And then they said it is easy to see she is related to me. Naturally..."

Email To Amanda

March 22, 2013
I love these Amanda. Keep them coming. Those cookies were unreal! I needed those. Hey if I sent my ipod back to get some other music would that be possible? If not it's all good. I just wanted some Kenny Loggins, ( Last unicorn, pooh corner, specifically those two) Stuff like that. Maybe some nice country. haha.  Also, I am going to get my pants fixed so tell mom not to stress. I don't know if mom and dad plan to email me back but I will send my fam email after lunch if I can get back on.

Again tell spence to write me back! Because I need to make sure my letter got to him. I put my facebook login on that letter cause I needed him to do something. And if it went to someone else that would be really bad. So call him and find out. I should get back on in like an hour. So if you can reply. Please do that. okay love you! Miss you! Dear Elder works well.

Love,
Matt

Como Vai?

 March 22, 2013
Como Vai minha familia?

It is so great to constantly hear from all of you on Dear Elder. It really means a lot. Mom and Dad I sent you two a letter talking about an experience I had this past Sunday. I hope you got it. I miss you all a ton.

So again, the language is awesome and is coming along very well. We taught an investigator by the name of Bruno. (He was one of our teachers. How it works is; one of our teachers play as an investigator they taught while on the mission, and they act exactly like they acted to them or exactly how they would act. They are all people they baptized.) And for 45 minutes we just had a normal conversation getting to know him and answering his questions he had, and teaching him about the simplicity of The Book of Mormon. He wants to read the bible but can't understand it. So we told him we would help him read and help him understand if he reads and prays about the Book of Mormon. He is a 19 year old kid who started off with a bad attitude. But he is starting to open up and love having us over. They lessons are going great. I love the language. I can't say it enough. All of the Latin based languages are so awesome.

I love having the chance to study the gospel for as long as we do. It is the only thing that keeps me sane. I've always thought that I have known the gospel pretty well. But the amount of doctrine and principles I have learned in just this short amount of time is amazing. Also, Jesus The Christ....amazing book. I'm obsessed with it. I read it when I'm supposed to be studying Preach My Gospel. haha. I have to control myself.

This past week was pretty much normal. It was great...but again, pretty normal. We sleep, study, teach, eat. That's it. Waking up at 6:30 is actually not hard at all. I am tired throughout the day but in the morning, it's not bad. During Gym time I do absolutely nothing. I sit and watch everyone else play basketball. Except I guess I take that back. I am my companions trainer. I show him what lifts to do and when to do them. I have him do some of the stuff I would do in high school. He is so sore and cries about it all the time but wants me to do it. haha. He is a great kid.

I'm not sure about the news with my Visa. We just play it by ear. I doubt I will get it before my departure date. I am sure I'll be reassigned somewhere. O well. It's all good.

There are now 120 elders and sisters in our Portuguese Branch....That is insane. Before this missionary boom the average was like...45. haha. The Lord's work is moving forward. That is for sure!! I love it. Lots of Sister missionaries. Its crazy. And lots of really young looking Elders. Some look like they haven't touched shaving cream in their life. And some are rude little kids. I about beat one who was being obnoxious during lunch.

There really isn't much other than that. We go on our Temple walk on Sundays at 3-4:30. And our District goes to the temple on Fridays around 8. These past two Fridays have been amazing. The temple is incredible. I love the Spirit I feel when I go through a session then pray afterwards.

It is snowing today...let's see what else...I'm awesome... O wait, I can't remember if I already told you about my two teachers, Brother Hansen, and Brother Nothum. But they are fantastic teachers. They teach exactly how I loke to be taught.

O also, I had my first Sister missionary drama in the District. haha. I had to deal with that and hold a big District meeting and share some spiritual thoughts. Everyone has responded really well. The Lord was absolutely helping me with what I needed to say.

The District is really close. Appropriately close. I had my doubts about sister missionaries haha. Just kidding....kind of... Ours work really hard and have an amazing testimony. And so do our Elders. I am really proud of them

Anyway I love you all. Continue to send Dear Elders. I love hearing from you all.

This church is true. I can't wait to get out in the field. Wherever it is that I end up in the next three weeks. I love this gospel and the peace and insight it provides me. You all are amazing. Having a family like the one we have is a rare gift from the Lord. And words can't express my gratitude for each of you. Continue to study and strive to live the gospel.

I love you and can't wait to see you again.

Elder Hadley

P.S. Dad, the Portugal thing was a joke......kind of. haha. Love you.

To My Loser Sisters....

I wanted to personally email you both and tell you thank you for everything you have done and continue to do for me. I miss you both so much. Amanda thank you for the package and the pictures. I needed those. And Michelle my night was ruined when you told me who Sean picked haha. He is a loser. I sent the family a long letter in more depth. I will write you both by hand. I just wanted to get this to you since I was already on. I love you both very much. Please know that. Continue to use Dear Elder, it works very well and I get them fast. I can write you back on paper that night. Tell my beautiful children hello and I love them very much. Give them a kiss and hug for me. And tell Brooks I want to play football with him too. I love you both.

Elder Hadley

First Email Home

Whats up my people!!!
Okay before I forget, I have to tell you the Dear Elder website works like a charm. Keep using it because they come fast. Sorry it took so long to email. Friday is our PDay but they didn't let us new missionaries have one last week. So I am having it now.
Mom VERY IMPORTANT!! They sent my slack waist size as a 34. And I needed a 36. The two pants for my suit are a 36 but the other 4 slacks are a 34. Should I send them to Amanda and have them get exchanged or should I just pay 5 bucks per pant and have them so it here??? Please answer on Dear Elder as soon as possible. Thank you. Okay so all of the Elders and Sisters that are called to Brazil that have not gotten there visas yet have gotten called to the travel office and had to fill out some paper work. I think their VISA expired. All except for 5 of us. Who went through the San Fran consulate. We didn't get called. So that either means we have already been approved and are waiting patiently for them. Or that means that maybe sometime they will call us later on to fill some stuff out. Who knows? I love it here anyway.
My district is awesome! 5 Sisters and 4 Elders. Mom and Dad I wrote a letter to you explaining how awesome they are. If anyone wants to know ask Mom and Dad. It it a great time serving as their District Leader. I will write hand-written letters as often as I can.
I love being here. The Spirit is very strong. Our schedule is really busy but I like staying busy, it keeps my mind occupied. I have studied the scriptures and Jesus The Christ so much. I love it. The language is gorgeous. It flows so nicely. And it is coming along really well for me. I am happy that I have the chance to learn it.
So we had to teach an investigator 8 lessons with no notes. And strictly Portuguese. It was tough but it was incredible to see the Spirit direct my thoughts and help me speak the language. I was saying things that I literally maybe learned for 1 second like during class or during a reading. Then I would go into the lesson and say exactly what I had heard and teach. I was able to understand what the investigator needed. I honestly would go into the lesson totally prepared to teach a lesson. But then I would ask what some of his concerns were or what he was having a tough time grasping. And I would switch the lesson right on the spot entirely. For example, our 5th lesson was written out to be keeping the Commandments. I went in and found that he was having a tough time with putting his faith in Christ and how doing that would benefit him. So I had him read Matthew 11: 28-30. Then I talked about in Alma 32 how we need to act and then our faith will grow. He then understood what putting out faith in the Savior would do for him. He said he would read the Book of Mormon and we committed him to Baptism (FINALLY!!!) three lessons later. haha. I honestly challenged him every single lesson. I have learned the importance of coming prepared to teach. But don't focus so much on teaching the lesson. teach the investigator.
My companion is awesome. We aren't very similar but it is amazing how well we get along. From the 2 districts that came in last week (missionaries headed to Brazil) 15 of the 20 are headed to the Salvador South mission. And I'm telling you, I get along so well with all of the elders that are going it is going to be a blast when we get out there!!!
There are way too many beautiful girls here.... haha. It gets me excited knowing there will be so many beautiful and righteous girls when I get home. And that isn't the "missionary talking". That is the truth. I mean, I've always wanted a spouse who could compare to Mom, and while they will fall short of Mom's level, it is good to know they will be on the right path. Trying to get on Mom's level. Rich, you did a great job man. Cherise you are awesome! Love you both. Even though you haven't written me.
Hey here is a fun little thing I was thinking about, in Jesus The Christ it talks about how the book was written using ancient scriptures from both sides of the hemisphere. Since Jerusalem is in the Northern Hemisphere, obviously the Lamanites and Nephites were in the Southern at some point. I mean I know we already knew that because of what leaders of the church have said as well as ancient ruins. I just till think it is really cool to speculate and try to guess. I don't know, Spence and Rich will probably make fun of me for typing that paragraph. haha.
Anyway, my time is almost up. I love this Gospel and I know it is true. A great and Marvelous work is going forth among the children of men and I am humbled to be apart of it. I love everyone and I hope you are doing well. Continue to use Dear Elder because it works very well. I went through the temple this morning and prayed like I have never prayed before for the welfare of all of you and those down the road. Let them know I love them very much and cannot wait to get pictures of little Cody. I hope all is well. I love you all so much. And for some odd reason....I miss you guys.. haha. I love you and be safe! Boa Tarde!!

Elder Hadley


PS get back to me about those slacks ASAP. And there is this girl that is in our zone going to Portugal....she is from Georgia....I will marry her. haha. (that was for you DAD) haha Love you guys!!

Entering the MTC

Matt's visa was delayed and so instead of going to the Brazil MTC he went to the Provo MTC. On March 6th, 2013 Spencer, Amanda and Emma picked him up at after a lunch with friends and family they said goodbye and dropped him off at the MTC.