The continuing saga

Hello Family!

Life is amazing! Little miracles happen everyday we just have to look for them.

Mom, this is a scriptures that has brought me a lot of peace. 2 Corinthians 4: 17-18

" For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."

I like how this scriptures tells us to "look" and "see"

President Eyring gave a talk about faith and authority: how we know that the men who lead us hold the authority of God. He said (paraphrasing) we must train our eyes to look for the authority in these humble men.

When temporal things are without stability, it helps to look and see those things that are not "seen" but that are eternal.

Erick will be recieving the Aaronic priesthood next week! His wife just arrived from Nicaragua a week ago and will be here for 6 months. They have left their two boys in Nicargua with her mother so that they can come and work to provide a living for them....it is hard to imagine that kind of life. Erick is still looking for another job but his faith is strong. I'm still sending pictures I promise!

We met an amazing family from Mexico this last week. Four children and their mother live humble and united and are very excited about the Gospel. We asked one day, at the beginning of one of our lessons, What are you grateful for? The oldest 11 year old Girl said "I have never had to starve, I'm really grateful I have always had food...."

I know that gratitude is how we become "whole" as the 1 leper who returned to thank Jesus.

Christ is my Savior, my dearest friend, thank you Mom for all you have taught me.

Love you all so much!!

Sister Tuckett

Christmas in July

Thanks for the Birthday love mom!! Our library was struck by lightning yesterday so we couldn't e-mail.

The storms here are amazing. We often get caught on our bikes in the storms. Please please please tell Aunt Jackie and Uncle David how grateful I am for their packages, inspired I'll tell you, I will be writing my own thank you love soon but let them know I did recieve it and it was Christmas in July for Sister Kunzler and I.

Our theme of this transfer is Christmas in July because all of our other cds are over played so we put in a christmas cd and it stuck, so we have also decorated our apartment in Christmas....and are doing the twelve days of christmas stories....and have set a christmas eve- we had to find something that gets rid of our focus on the texas hit. So don't worry there are two sister missionaries riding bikes down in texas singing christmas carols this July.

The mission is the best place in the world. Live is great. I don't want it to end. Many people are learning so much about this wonderful Gospel right now.

I heard Kristin wright is going on a mission? I'm so happy for her!

Tell bryan I will write him soon and I just have had time so sorry!!!

Love you all so much!!!

Monday

Hi Dad!!

Happy Fourth of July! I love Dad campouts I'm so glad she was able to go with you too. I'm learning a lot on what it means to build up the Lord's Kingdom and his expectations of us as faithful Disciples of Christ. I'm learning what the Atonement means, what our life really should be composed of and sooo many many false assumptions I have had about life.

My companion and I are riding bikes most of these days. We have met so many people from all over the world- Nigeria, Pakistan, Nicaragua, South Africa, Turkey, Vietnam, India- we are beginning to count and we have met people from over 50 different countries. I've learned conviction is nothing until it is turned to conduct. Prayers are really answered, Repentance is real and the Lord is always please but never satisfied. I've working to completely give my will over to Him. It is hard.

I would like to tell two stories since I don't have much time. Thanks for the story about Brea- I will keep her in my prayers- and don't worry no distractions- prayers are better than being there in person :)

Eric Gomez is a man from Nicaragua who was an atheist for over 10 years- he came to the u.s. to work and send money back to take care of two of his children- He was intrigued by the way the church handles themselves and (riding bikes in skirts! ha ha) I explained the restoration and unlike the cross of Christ's crucifixion held by many churches , the symbol of our belief is how we live our lives. ( I have always liked the idea that the gift I give is the way that I live) He agreed to have us come over and teach- then he came began to come to church- Fast forward three weeks to know- Eric has told us he has felt enlightened- that "something" is growing in him and he learning what faith is Jesus Christ is. He is quitting is job at illegal bar (they sell alcohol after two in the morning!) and will be looking for another job. He is completely changing his life around to come closer to our Heavenly Father and he will be baptized on my Birthday!!! If all stays on track :)

Javier is a 25 and one of his friends was murdered about three or four months ago- he thinks he knows who did it and has been struggling with understanding what Justice is and wants to take care of things himself- He didn't know who God is, or Jesus Christ, or how to pray- We taught him about the Plan of Salvation and the 10 commandments and what Heavenly Father wants from him. He said to us " I felt something when I read that scriptures- what is that?" We explained what the Holy Ghost is- he is very genuine as well- He wants to be as happy as he sees we are- he wants to change his life but admitted he was scared or wants to take care of things first " we quickly explained what Heavenly Father asks of us and what humility is"

I know this is the work of our God, and that no unhallowed hand can stop the work from progressing. I feel so privileged to have this opportunity to serve. I will ride my bike until it breaks, I will walk until I just fall and then crawl until i can only sit and talk to people that pass by me- I want to have the earnest zeal and determination from the Love and knowledge of Heavenly Father's plan for us. I know Joseph Smith was a prophet and that through revelation Christ has established His Church again on the earth. That we may all return to him as a family- I want our family to return to Heavenly Father again as well so you aren't alone on that one :) I know that Happiness only comes from aligning our will completely with his, complete consecration of ourselves because really...he has given us everything we have...the only thing we have to give is ourselves.

I love you so much- I pray for our family daily and I know everything will work out according the Lord's will. Thank you for teaching me about Jesus Christ.

Your favorite oldest daughter :)

Jess

P.s. Send to mom please I forgot!

Hello!

Hello!!

We are so grateful the world cup is over....most of our investigators were distracted for weeks!!

Sister Kunzler and I have another transfer together! We will be riding bikes through July and August talking to everyone. Last week we were hit with the aftermath of the hurricane that went through Mexico- we were out riding our bikes one day and stopped to talk to a lady in her van, it began to rain for a second but then all of a sudden car alarms were going off with a downpour that stopped our conversation. We quickly got back on our bikes and began to ride- we noticed an open garage and we went right in!!! one of the garden workers hid in the garage as well and we found out he was baptized back in El Salvador. Tender Mercy from the Lord.

Marian!! all of the little girls at church are teaching me songs and games that we can play at home!

We have been blessed with much success in this area- President told us he was going to close it but Sister Kunzler and I have found some wonderful prepared people so Houston 4 can still be a sister's area!

Eric Gomez is still doing well- he is coming to understand how Christ can be our Savior- he is looking for a new job still so Keep him in your prayers!

How are your classes mom? How is everyone's health?

I love you all so much!

Sister Tuckett

Letter

I love that story about caleb!!!

Tell Lexie I love her and everything is going to be ok. Her aunt is in our prayers.

It is now summertime in texas- I left an apple and carrots in a bag in the car for a snack after church on sunday- I did not know texas heat can cook in a bag- the baked apple wasn't bad but I can't say the same for the carrots. I feel that i've lived in two extremes from the Idaho freeze not letting my truck turn on and my baked apple bags in the Texas heat.

Eric Gomez- is an amazing man from Honduras who is a non-religious bartender that wants to be baptized: He had a hard time understanding why Christ was the "Only Begotten of the Father" when he too is a son of God. I was humbled by his desire to understand why Jesus Christ is so important- realizing my inadequate understanding of all the Christ has done for us. I can testify of the power of Christ's Atonement in our lives- that we don't live for ourselves but for God and how exciting it is going to be to see the change in Eric's life.

I love you so much family!!!

Sister Tuckett

On Mon, Jun 21, 2010 at 10:53 AM, Mariellen Tuckett <mtuck87@gmail.com> wrote:

I am now Caleb's primary teacher! So sitting yesterday in primary, they spotlight a child each week in sharing time. They turn off the lights and with a flash light shine it around the room. They tell all sorts of neat things about the child without giving their name and then they let someone guess who it is. Well, they ran through the list of clues and everyone started guessing Drew Toolson, but then sister Pendleton asked if Drew had just had a birthday. He said no. And it was if a light bulb went off in Caleb's head and he said "I had my birthday!" And she said yes it is you. His eyes lit up and his hands went up like he had won the lottery. Everyone laughed. It was SOO very cute!

Yes, I Moved

Yes I moved! About a half hour from my other area, I'm in the city now.

Address: 12525 South Kirkwood Apt. 132

Stafford, TX 77477 Mailbox #1312

( I don't know if you need the apt. #)

Still speaking spanish. I'm finishing training Sister Kunzler- a sweetheart from Ogden, Utah. We are riding bikes and in a car. It's a very different area which is helping my skills a ton with the diversity.

Evelsa is one of our angels right now- she wants to be baptized but can't because the man she is living with doesn't want to marry her and is legally married to another in Georgia- complications :) but Heavenly Father works miracles.

I would love to get some pictures from graduation!!

Most of the people are Indian, Nigerian, or Mexican. I've had some very different foods too- chicharron is a popular dish of pig skin. Want some?

How are classes mom? What are the plans for the summer?

Horses names: British Gypsy is her registered name and T.J....was something something dream. Their papers are in a box of mine I promise-

I heard about everybody except for brea- tell her I e-mailed her and she needs to write back :)

I love you all so much. Heavenly Father works miracles.

"The greatest gift I could give to you is if you could see yourself the way I do." - unknown

Christians aren't perfect- they are forgiven.

Memorial Day

Hello!!

Oh sweet mother if only that was so....I've found that missionary work is like faith, charity and exercising..there is not top of the mountain you are climbing to, there is no plateau, silver bullet, secret ingredient, scripture, or technique that makes missionary work less effort- but through prayer, diligence and exact obedience the blessings of Heaven are poured out on these wonderful people. The best part about it is that the whole thing makes up the best time of your life!! If you aren't smiling you are not doing it right we must PLAN to be happy, healthy, on time, and succesful. Obedience is the key, faith is the power, Christ is the reason!

I'm moving out of rosenberg to a new area tomorrow so i'll let you know next week. We sing every tuesday and play bingo with the old ladies at a retirement center down the road. We sang for the last time today and my sweet maddie Miller just cried when I said I was leaving...that was tough- President Saylin says that if you don't open up your heart knowing you might get hurt you don't have true charity... it is true but painful.

I have to know my Savior so much more- He is my comfort and motivation- I know that the things I want to change in myself are possible only through Him.

This area is wonderful and the people are strong in the faith of our Heavenly Father. When you come pick me up we will have to come back and say hello.

I'm glad to hear everyone made it through the weekend alive. I want to hear details though! Sister Hammeren came to visit and I saw the picure of caleb and marian they are so big!!! I love them much- un beso!

Find a nice home where we can have a garden...and maybe some horses....

Sister Tuckett

Graduation!

What happened to Christ's admonition " take therefore no thought for the morrow, for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself...." Good Luck Brea!!!

Sister Sayling, Our mission president's wife shared an experience that I want to apply for the rest of my life. One of her six children LOVES to tease. She turned to the scriptures specifically for guidance on how she might teach her son how to become more like Christ. Sure enough the next morning the teasing began. She found that because she sought specifically for the guidance she needed and prepared before hand; She was able to say exactly what her son needed. She felt the guidance of the spirit as she spoke calmly and without frustration. She saw her son reflect on his actions and feel his Heavenly Father's reproving love as well.

I know that we can turn to the scriptures for any answer. That a casual desire for answers is not sufficient but by hungering and thirsting for righteousness comes the desired guidance that we want. This desire but then be followed by exact obedience to the truths we have learned and then be willing to "stand as witness" I've learned there are certain "certitudes" that we need to go through our trials with faith: A knowledge that God exists, a knowledge of His nature, attributes, and his plan, and a knowledge that we are doing his will.

Spencer can tell you the story of a man we met this week who did not know the true nature of our Loving Heavenly Father.

The package you sent me was wonderful tell sister Hintze thank you I have felt a difference.

Good luck with graduation!! Give Grandma and Grandpa a big hug for me!! Love you!

P.S. STILL DON'T HAVE BREA'S E-MAIL --- tell that girl i'm taking the next flight to Utah and we are going to sit and eat pumpkins while she apologizes to me why she hasn't emailed yet.

Love,

Sister Tuckett

Diligence

Good Afternoon!

It feels like it has been years since we have talked. It was a busy week for us as well. I loved your insights on neighbors mom you are amazing.

This is me answering questions:

Mom: How are you?

Me: FANTASTIC

Mom: Can you believe only a week has past since we spoke?

Me: We must be doing wonderful things with our time

Mom: How much have you crammed in your week?

Me: A lot! but never enough :)

"Life is like eating a grapefruit. Fist you have to break though the skin; then it takes a couple of bites to get used to the taste; and then when you begin to enjoy it...it squirts you in the eye!"

Not funny?

I have just began to experience an attribute of Christ I have never really experienced before. In school- I recieve grades and admittance to a higher level of classes after the end of a semester. I was paid for my work efforts at my job every month or on salary. Horseback riding, mountain biking or running always proved for a good after workout high.

But on the mission- diligence proves to be a diamond in the rough that I am beginning to understand. Working out does not bring a level of fitness that maintains itself but we msut continually exercise to improve or we digress. Faith and charity are no different. A misconception of what success is quickly becomes revealed and tests faith. I know that the powers of heaven can only be controlled and handles upon the principles of righteousness. Success is not a target to be aimed at but is ensued through diligent effort for something higher than oneself. Then I found this quote:

" When Mother Teresa recieved the Nobel Peace Prize, Mother Teresa was reportedly asked, " So how do you feel now tha tyou have been working to feed the poor and ease their misery for decades, and things are still just as bad- or worse- in Calcutta as when you started?" - Her profound response is an example to us all. She said that we hav enot been called to be successful but to be faithful." -Elder Sorenson

I know that we might not always see the results of our efforts and that is what we aim for and search for in our work- But as our lives become more centered on Christ and we desire only the Glory of God- Our faith carries us through anything.

I love you all so much- remind me I have a story next week about scriptures!!

Sister Tuckett

Happy Mothers day

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

I was so excited to talk that I forgot to tell you how amazing, wonderful, nice, patient, humble, willing, forgiving, and...cute you are :) Thank you for your example- and there is a letter coming.

It was so great to hear all of your VOICES.

Marian you sing like that lady on Hocus Pocus- it's a good thing!

Spencer- you are growing to fast- write me and we'll plan some stuff to do when I get back.

Josh- YOU'RE AMAZING. I love ya

Caleb- I want some pictures.

Dad- Thanks for the words of comfort.

Mom- I was going to ask you how your class was thanks for letting me know.

Bungalo- PARTY! I want a picture like we did when Grandma and Grandpa came to mine and then photo shop me in and send it to me. What is your e-mail so I can e-mail when you go to school.

Know that I love you all so much!

***this is me confirming that I read the previous e-mail and correctly responded.

I will keep eric in my prayers I just sent him a letter too. I wish I could help your class! Prayers are better than being there though I know that much.

Galations 6:8 "For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." Tell me what you like about this scripture.

**Acutally I would really like Brea's e-mail because I have a really important story for her.

Love you so much!! Next week I'll have more stories

Sister Tuckett

May 3, 2010

I still haven't seen a bluebonnet... I'll keep you posted.

We walked into a washateria to talk to some of them- it is great way to start up a conversation and they can't get away while their laundry is in washer...just kidding...but seriously.

I walked in to see an old friend (as of three weeks) Rosemary. She is a regular washer on saturdays and comes to wash with all five of her kids. We began talk about what is new since last week and I offered to fold her clothes ( how my mother taught me to serve) She said no it's alright out of politeness but I saw the need and began to fold (also how my mother serves). We began to talk about her family and husband. I have been taught that there is gospel truth that can tie into any aspect of another's lives and I began to search and listen to the spirit as to what I might say because three weeks ago she was't interested in the church. Because of her faith and desire to learn Heavenly Father blessed me with the inspiration of what I might say... I testified of the divinity of a role of a mother. Motherhood is a way that we can see God's potential for ourselves instead of just looking through our eyes. The Mundane chores of folding laundry, cleaning, wake up and do it again, is not wasted. It is the foundation of service and love and through righeous principles we may see the joy in the journey and enjoy our time with our children.

The spirit was so strong and she recognized it "I've never seen it that way..." I quickly testified that what she was feeling is the Holy Ghost so she could recognize that Love Heavenly Father has for her. We finished folding and packed it in the car. She agreed to have us come over this time and share more of Heavenly Father's plan for us.

I'm so grateful for my mother who taught me how to show how Heavenly Father loves us to others.

Speaking of Mother's day I will be calling at 4:00 pm en punto Texas Time from 281-232-3120. I'm Excited to hear all of you! I want everyone to tell me one new thing they have been doing....and a joke.

CONGRATULATIONS MOM! on your classes i'm excited to hear how they go....

Love you all talk to you soon!!

Sister Tuckett

April 12, 2010

Hola Familia!

The Area is fantastic- I'm starting to get attached to Texas (I was already attached to the people)

Carlos Torres is a 24 yr old convert from our branch that has been a member for 2 years. He just recieved his mission call to serve in FORTWORTH, TEXAS! He only speaks spanish so let Grandma and Grandpa get a head start on their accent. He will be in the MTC in June and I'd love to send some stuff to him in the MTC if we can Mom- He is the only member in his family and his parents just cried when he said he was leaving for two years so he''ll need the support.

We are writing a little later today because we went out to Brazos Bend State Park where Sister Wright and I went texas hiking (utah walking). It was Beautiful- reminded me of virginia except for the alligators you would walk around on the trail- we took some pretty good pictures I'll send them to you.

Sister Wright is from Washington- This is her second area so she is still getting used to things. Our branch has about 100 members but only 30 come regularly- we are working on getting many back to church- feel the rhythm feel the rhyme get on up it's baptizing time.

I never realized how different we really are as missionaries. Simple, beautiful truths of the Gospel are almost unnatural and uncomfortable for some of our investigators.

Our relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ is real. Christ truly is at the head of this work and I'm so grateful to be a missionary.

Betty Rojas is going to be baptized in about three weeks- she has a 4 year old daughter in Mexico right now because she couldn't afford to bring her across but needs to work to provide. She will be here in July- we are excited.

This Gospel changes lives,

Love you all,

Sister Tuckett

March 29, 2010

Conference will be amazing!!!! We have some investigators that are really excited about coming too. Don't send the package until next week please. I get the results from the doc today- i'll let you know. Yes i'm still in the same area and I love it- mi companera se va esta semana ( she leaves this week ) we talk to so many people every week I think i know everyone in the city so we are starting to oym the cows. Mom the temple is amazing we were so blessed to go this week as a mission. I'll write more about it later. We are teaching so wonderful people.

Love you!!

Sister Tuckett

March 22, 2001

Hello!

I've learned to pray just for the strength to do His will. I love you.

"For the Lord shall comfort Zion, he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord. Joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving and the voice of melody." 2 Nephi 8:3

A study of true principles changes behavior more than a study of behavior changes behavior. I just want to share my testimony: I know this is the church of our Savior Jesus Christ. Our prayers are answered; the Holy Ghost comforts, and blessings are given only through His merits, mercy, and grace. I know that faith takes away all fear. I know that no matter what problem we have, living the Gospel is the answer. I know that humility is obedience. I know that revelation continues today through a living prophet to guide the church and that we can recieve personal revelation for our families- we just have to ask. I have prayed many times about the Book of Mormon and every time I have recieved an answer of it's veracity. I know it is true.

With much Love,

Sister Tuckett

March 8, 2010

Mom and Dad,

Thanks for the quotes I love those, I actually crave family council and family home evening- it is essential to our happiness!

"I spend half my time counting my blessings and the other half thanking the Lord for them and that leaves no time to feel sorry for myself." The Lord had poured out blessings on this area- we have seven people preparing to be baptized out here in the country- buenas noticias. I have truly felt the joy that comes from the promise of King Benjamin- that if we have used the Atonement in our life we should ALWAYS remember our own nothingness and the greatness of God THEN we will always rejoice...along with many other amazing, uncomprehendable blessings. "There are times in our lives when it seems easy to be grateful. We feel so blessed and cared for." President Mckay said " We find in teh bitter chill of adversity the real test of our gratitude; and that is true gratitude, which, triumphing over conditions merely physical and external, fidns its ground of thankfulness in God Himself. It is independent of circumstances. It goes beneath the surface fo live, whether sad of joyous, and founds itself upon God."

I have truly felt the comforting reassurance in hard times as I humble myself and work with faith. I used to think I had something to do with this work.. but as Alma testified to Helaman I know these things to be true as of no worthiness of myself. There is nothing I can do or have done to merit myself being here except for obedience to Heavenly Father's commandments and humility. I realized for myself that as I pray to do Heavenly Father's will even in the hardest of circumstances he will always send help. Just as Christ prayed for the sustaining help to do Heavenly Father's will in the Garden of Gethsemane.

We met a store owner the other day that has been working in the same store for 17 years- he doesn't know much about God and three years back he was robbed, beaten and lost everything so he had to start again. He has worked his whole life to make a living but is beginning to find out another realm of Joy. I'm truly proud to be a missionary of our Savior Jesus Christ.

I was talking to a man the other day who feels that we are amazing people and do amazing things but our doctrine is wrong. What?! you might as well say that is our Doctrine- to live as followers of Christ! But as much as we try and speak and tell it is not sufficient...a true seeker of truth has their heart open to the spirit. Heavenly Father has said that he reveals little by little and then will add more according to our faith. He counseled Nephi to not write more at one point as "to try the faith of my people" Sister Clifton and I have seen this in the work we have been counseled by the spirit to stop at points because their hearts are not open.

Time to go- I love to teach!

I hope you all are happy I'm so grateful for you and your support I'm glad to hear all is well. I miss those quotes too. Jeep still not fixed then?

****Dad you should incorporate Preach my Gospel into Family council and Family Home Evening it is perfect for teaching Gospel Principles I love it!

Feb 22, 2010

Buenos Dias!

Caleb would fit right in with the little boys in sunnyside- their mom's shave swirls into their hair it was great. I recieved the family letters!! I loved to hear from everyone. Thanks for the pictures Brea, you two are a good-looking couple and you look so elegant in your dress! I'm glad to know i'm not the only one in the family with bad handwriting.
Brea I sent your letter I hope you have it. Spencer girls are the devil stay away from them. Caleb I LOVE YOU!!

Honestly many things have happened this week but they are not coming to mind. My Joy comes from teaching, everytime there is hard spot the scriptures guide me. Jose Delcia is a man that we are teaching right now that is very interested in knowing if this is the true church of Christ- but he is trying to use his knowledge of the Gospel to find out if the Book of Mormon is true. Just as Paul testified "For I neither recieved it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ." The Only way someone can testify that Jesus is the Christ is through the Holy Ghost as well as if the Book of Mormon is true and Joseph Smith was a prophet. Brigham Young remarked along the lines that even if all of the eloquence and wisdom of the world presented the Book of Mormon to him is would be as smoke that disappears but as a simple man without a way with words can testify that by the Holy Ghost he knows that Joseph Smith was prophet- that illumination of the soul by the Holy Ghost is incomparable. As it is with us in our lives. Why do we adorn ourselves with things that have no live- but that life only comes through Jesus Christ.

I just got a little sidetracked...

Marian: You are doing so great at taking care of all the puppies I love your drawings I have kept every single one!

I'm so grateful for all of your support and love! All for now,

Sister Tuckett

February 8, 2010

Good Morning!

Yes I did recieve your e-mail dad thank you! I hope those who attend are comforted.

Thank for reminding me about my story! When I became a trainer I realized I didn't have my companion to rely on anymore (so to speak) as to who to see, teaching, and where to by as guided as the spirit. There came a point in the day when our appointments fell through. I realized that I wanted to follow what Heavenly Father wanted us to do but that listening to the spirit was and will be a work in progress. I prayed right there with faith and said "Heavenly Father we want to teach who you have prepared and we have the faith to find them." We began to drive again and we recieved a call from Byron E. Jones, a preacher who had ordered a bible. So we went quickly to his store (he owns a christian book store and wants to help the people around the ghetto) and we came to find he wanted to know more about the church and the B.O.M. He had felt something different when reading about the church, he said he was looking for truth and Heavenly Father helped us share some scriptures that he needed to read, the spirit was so strong!! We met his wife the next meeting and he is praying to be baptized and I'm still waiting to hear progress. He was very well versed in the Bible (of course) but I was amazed as I followed the spirit I turned to a chapter that answered one of his questions about the church before he had asked the question. I'm getting chills just writing it. Christ truly is at the head of this work.

I MOVED BACK TO BRAZOS. My address 1111 Golfview Drive, #1016 Richmond, Tx 77469- this will be faster than the mission home.

I can't imagine my life without the mission right now, I already know i'm going to be a funny RM. The Lord has refined me and shown me fears, concerns, things I love that I didn't even realize. He illuminates weakness so he can eliminate them. More importantly I have come closer to my Savior Jesus Christ. I love to teach.

I wake up everyday just bouncing out of bed to go study to each these wonderful people. We have three or four in this area that are reading the book of Mormon and looking for answers. I miss sunnyside and the people but am looking forward to all the amazing people we will meet here.

Dad, I figured out why I always say "i'm fine" to things. Growing up I literally took to heart perfection as the way to follow Christ. I would say i'm fine to cover frustration, sadness and any other experience life through at me. I was not using the Atonement in my life. I"m slowly coming to understand what that perfection means. Moroni tells us to "come unto Christ, and be perfected in him." Accept that some days are going to be the fruits of repentance and others are going to be part of the repentace process, enjoys the ups and downs of life while letting Christ be there. Some days I can give 8 talons, some days I can only give 2; but through the Atonement, it all comes down that through "The grace of God [we] are perfect in Christ"

Pride plays a part in this as well- admitting our mistakes and imperfections and then having faith in Christ is the healing power that each one of us needs. When I want to cry now dad, I cry, when I realize I didn't do something how I thought it should be done, I pray and Heavenly Father reassures me because you don't get any other reassurance out here on the mission that would be worth more. Working and living by the spirit is something I'm striving for everyday. I love how paul talks about his pre-eminance and stature in the jewish society was all "dung" compared to his conversion to christianity.

I"m out of time so remind me about two stories-
-I love alma
-refinement of speech

I love you all so much-. Talk to you next week!!

Sister Tuckett

Monday

Hey hey! I do love that song...

I will pray for Mckay Burrows family and I'll try and figure out what wailing with someone is like ha ha. I don't need a fast mommy it's ok I promise! I feel better right now too. It has been busy training Sister Pope. I will be in my new area tomorrow.

You are great and wonderful! How is the new house- thank you for the address. I will write more next week b/c it's busy.

Love you! I'm smiling!!

January 25, 2010

I had a funny experience the other day- we went to an apartment complex and one of our investigator's little girls was learning to ride a bike without training wheels and I realized the mother didn't know how to help her so I showed Jaime (the mom) how to hold the back of the bike and the handle bars to guide her-- You were such a good mother growing up knowing everything we needed and how to help- I really believe you have all the answers and are the most knowledgeable mother.

I am a little anxious right now because of some change but I love the ability to rely on the spirit. Mom I have realized that there is no sense of perfection and to stop trying to be perfect in what I think perfect is. My goal since the beginning is to be able to follow the spirit and as I have depended on that my understanding of myself is stronger and my ability to handle these changes is more secure. I love the quote by Joseph smith again that says If we don't understand the character of God we can't understand ourselves.

So this is what happened: Sister Jackson has to get thyroid surgery because she has a cold nodule that could become cancerous. She is training a new missionary that comes in this wednesday but her surger is on thursday- so president has asked me to stay for another week in this area and train this new baby for four days then move into spanish with another baby. I know this is what the Lord wants and I don't have to worry as long as I follow the spirit. So I won't move to my new area till next week.

Sorry this is going to be a long journal entry because there is so much to write. I was talking to a nurse about the health thing and she said it is possible that I am a saliac (the gluten thing) so i stay away from wheat and barley but I can eat rice. It has been two weeks without it and I feel great. I agree with the word of wisdom I won't cut out grains all together I love them! I'm not worried about gaining weight either because I have given everything to the Lord here that means a worn out and tired body at the end of this.

There have been some unforeseen expenses and I have had to use my debit card and I'll probably spend another 30 this week and that is it for food. I would love the rice cooker but honestly I can't fit it in my stuff! I will let you know if that changes but don't worry about sending me granola bars anymore ha ha

Nick and Rose are getting married- they stopped drinking and we are working on the drugs and the weed. Satan works so hard on these wonderful people as they strive to change their lives around.

Sometimes Mom I get impatient when people don't understand and I am a bold missionary- I tell them the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the only way for eternal happiness, any other church does not have the fullness of the Gospel and baptism without that authority is not valid. I am tactful though don't worry and who know how I can do it in spanish.

Collini is a mother with three little kids and has a sweet spirit. She is open to the Gospel and lives her life as a mormon.

Anthony: college student who is smart and motivated we found him in the outskirts of the hood and is going to be amazing!

Hello!!

For MLK day yesterday about 2,000 horses road down the streets of sunnyside and we had some good south barbecue- I was so sick but i made the experience! I don't think Martin Luther King would have appreciated them all celebrating his day drinking and such though.

Mother I wrote you a letter but it's not done yet- it will come soon! I recieved the drawing from Mar- Mar- YOur cursive is AMAZING! it's better than mine.

Tell me how the house is and all-

I'm trying to get better at writing experience and how I fell not just news so here it goes.

NEWS FIRST: I'm being transferred back into spanish on next wednesday so i'll let you know the following Monday- I'm going to be a "stepmother" which means i'm kind of a half trainer because my companion has only been out one transfer- i'm a little nervous because it's in spanish and being senior companion; but that doesn't make a difference we will just love the work of the Lord together and I have all the faith I will be able to speak. I will miss sunnyside: everyone is so receptive to the Gospel and they have so much faith-

DAD: I WOULD LIKE A COPY OF YOUR LINE OF AUTHORITY FOR THE PRIESTHOOD PLEASE- I've been studying the priesthood and it would be nice and i'm sending this note to mother because i know it would go on her to-do list anyways. Loves!

Sister Jackson has had a "Goiter" of an enlarged thyroid so we have seen the doctor a lot lately- we went to really nice part of downtown houston and I was a fish out of water- Sunny side is so poor and everyone in houston was RICH and you could smell the pride...the vanity was disheartening.

Nick (another gang member investigator) we have seen the beauty of the Atonement as he is lifted of the memories and sins of his past and has come realize his potential through Christ!

I wrote this to Josh but wanted to share with the family too:

There was a man that had asked a member of the church "so you believe there is a prophet of God on the earth today?" The member said confidently "of course, I know there is . "
the man then asked "then what has the prophet said lately that we should be doing?"

And the member couldn't think....if we believe there is a prophet of God on the earth do we follow him as we should? Do we truly know he is recieving the instruction for our lives from God?

I've been making sure to read the General Conference talks so I know what we should be realizing and focusing on right now. President Monson simply tells us we are here to serve and lift his children.

"Man's greatest happiness comes from losing himself for the good of others." Christ taught us that "unless we lose ourselves in service to others, there is little purpose to our own lives."

I love to teach the Gospel. There are things i'm working on everyday to become better. Jesus Christ truly is at the head of this work.

Love you all so much!

Snow In Texas

Hey Mom and Dad,

The Lord is refining our desires, intentions, and notions. He has a different plan that the world does and as times goes on the fork in the road from His way and the World's is just going to grow farther and farther apart. This e-mail I want to write about Love. Matt 22: 36-40

" Master which is the great commandment in the law?"
"Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind." And with the second commandment "hang all the law and the prophets"

As I have been searching for the underlying objective and complete purpose of serving here in Texas this what the Lord has blessed me with. From President Uchtdorf's talk from General Conference we learn so much more of how everything comes down to love. The Lord does not need us to love him, this in not a commandment to maintain His authenticity of God but as Elder Uchtdorf put it "Oh how we need to love him!" Because what we love is what we seek and what we seek is what we think and do and therefore how we act, who we are and who we will become. We must recognize Him for His love. Everything that has and will be done to bring to pass his commandments and the words of His prophets are in love.

As we bring our will's in line with the Lord's we begin to realize that what we are building with Him no one can take away from us. We don't make ourselves from pre-eminence, popularity, beauty, or wealth. We can't afford to rely on something so short-lived. As we search for the Lord's will in our lives we are amazed how deeply directed we can become in the simplest actions.

These people are poor. A member family is cutting back even on food this month because they have one income and the husband's hours were cut back, they have 5 kids but are the happiest family I have ever seen. They were baptized about 6 months ago. Another family lives in a trailer, 5 kids as well and one on the way, Patricio (the husband) works construction but there hasn't been much lately....

Let's each find out what the Lord wants for us. Thank you for letting me know how all is well I did recieve both of your e-mails and Josh's. Mom the papers are in one of the folders under my bed in one of the plastic boxes. The only other place they could be is in a box in that hall closet, also in a folder (possibly red)

Thank you for letting me know, I have faith but it does bring comfort.

I love you all so much!! All is well here in Texas!

Jess
Hermana Tuckett

Five Days Till Christmas

Mother i loved hearing that story about going to the beach- you didn't share a lot of stories like that when we were little- do it with the other ones I want to hear more. Haven't had any shrimp yet but I have had Chile rellenos HUGE peppers with cheese or meat in them fried in egg- really gross but I lived.


FIRST: I WILL CALL CHRISTMAS AFTERNOON- 3:00 PM MY TIME ( WHAT IS IT YOUR TIME) I will have about 40 mins to talk I can't wait to hear your beautiful voices!

I can't begin to tell you all the wonderful things that have happened out here but here it goes.

So I am in a new area and I will be in a new one next transfer too- they are just jumping me all over the place. Our mission opened a new area in the suburbs of downtown houston for the english speaking missionaries....but they took me instead of an english sister. So I am now speaking english just outside of the city- Sister Jackson and I were the only white people we saw for the first two days- i'm serious- it is amazing I love black people- I love the Gospel and the Lord is guiding everything we do. So we are White-washing this area but we already have 6 baptismal dates in the first four days- this area has had people prepared it's amazing to see how it works.

We come in early due to President's directions because of the demographics of the area but don't worry we are safe. People are amazed we are out here. I love how diverse it is. New address only for 6 weeks is: 2725 Reed Road Houston, Texas 77051. But it isn't as reliable as the parkway address I will only get the parkway address mail every two weeks though.

We found this is the most ghetto area of our mission it is great- Our branch is about 25 people. We are baptizing Joseph Smith- black of course- He loves reading about himself. Sister Jackson is a little black girl in a white girl's body so it works out well :) Very eccentric excited and we are just putting out baptismal dates left and right. Very different then the Mexican Culture. I know the Lord will bless me when I go back into spanish with the ability to remember what I need- for some reason he wanted me here though and I love opening up an area we can just be bold and love the work.

Well I will talk to you more in about 4 days! I want to hear stories and such. Thanks Dad and Mom and Josh for the E-mails- Merry Christmas

Con amor,

Hermana Tuckett

P.S. Mom- say a prayer and you will find the papers

Sister Tuckett

Hello, sister Tucker and family;


I'm honored to send this photo of your sister missionary, sister Tucker! My family was able to have her and her companion, Sister Jackson over to our home for Christmas dinner. Although she is new to our branch, I've felt her immense love for each person of whom she serves. She shows maturity and again, love for these people here and I am excited to get to know her. I know she will do great here, and I'm grateful the Lord has sent her to our branch.
My family will do our best to take care of your daughter, so please, don't hesitate to ask us anything--if there is anything we can do for your family, or your daughter, please let us know. I was in her shoes a few years ago in Chile and was blessed by generous people taking care of me, so please let me serve in the tiny ways that I can.


Love,
Monika Sampert

Howdy!

Christmas sounded wonderful with the family. It was so good to speak with everybody I didn't really know what to say.

I loved hearing everyone's voices. I love when Nephi is called to build that ship and his brothers murmur but he says unto them " If God had commanded me to do all things I could do them." What part of our lives is missing the faith of Nephi? That we can do all things. I know that God will specifically tell us what we need to do.

Scripture of the week Mosiah 4: 11-12 If we want to always rejoice, be filled with the Love of God and grow in the knowledge and Glory of "him that created you."

Oh mom!! I spoke in our little branch on Sunday- we didn't have enough teacher for class so we only did two hours- it is really struggling and we meet in a small institute building and sacrament meeting is in with the kitchen. But I used a story about you I'll have to tell you next time. remind me Thanks for the presents means the world!

Love you all!