Reflections on Trek - A Reunion Event

October 19th , 6 – 9 PM at the Bellingham Stake Center (2550 Thornton Road, Ferndale, WA 98248). All youth, Ma’s, Pa’s, Company Commanders and Trek staff are encouraged to attend. Dress is nice, Strength-of-Youth casual. There will be a unique Trek program and a good opportunity to rekindle the spirit of Trek.

If anyone would like photos from Trek we have several in a Dropbox folder. Contact me at russ.dzialo@gmail.com for access. There are more photos than we could fit in the Dropbox so we will also have a a table with equipment to transfer photos to a thumb drive. Please bring an empty thumb drive to the event if you would like photos. The entire collection is over 40GB so be prepared.

Hopefully all of you are planning on attending the upcoming Trek Reunion activity this Saturday. We are looking forward to connecting with you all and reflecting on our shared experiences. As part of that event stake leaders are preparing a photo slide show that we would like to juxtapose with brief testimonies and reflections from Trek. I would like to invite each of you to take a moment to reflect on your trek experience:

How specifically did an experience from Trek strengthen your testimony of Christ?

What was one time your felt particularly close to the spirit or to your family on Trek?

What is one poignant lesson you learned from the spirit on Trek?

How would you summarize the value and purpose of Trek?

In going through this exercise with youth and adults they have often responded with "I know what I want to share".  If you are up for the challenge I would like to invite each of you to record your reflection/testimony into a audio file on a computer or handheld device, this should be a 30-45 second clip! Be concise!  The easiest way to do this that I know of is to use the voice memo function on the i-phone, I am sure other devices have a similar app, once you are happy with your recording, you can share the audio file via an email attachment. Send a single polished reflection to: 

abramdickerson@gmail.com

I cannot guarantee that all files will be included in our final product, but we will endeavor to include all of the testimonies and reflections from those who take the time and effort to share their experiences.  Our hope is that this compilation of testimonies along with images from Trek will be a great reminder and of the spirit we felt at Trek. We look forward to sharing it with you this Saturday at our reunion activity!   

Post Trek Thoughts & Testimonies - Tobler

So many wonderful memories. Going through all the pictures I took from Trek just puts a smile on my face. I am going to miss my "kids" -- Francys Tobler

Trek. By far the best thing I've ever done! By far the most physically demanding thing I've ever done! By far the most spiritual thing I've ever done! I love my trek family so much. I will never forget them and the influence they had in my life! Ladies, you gave me so much hope and strength to endure the pulling. Gentlemen, y'all gave me the feelings of brotherhood I've been looking for, for a while with the LDS young men. Ma and Pa, the love, sacrifice, and devotion you gave to this family will always be a great example for the way I wish to raise my children. This family was so inspired, and I feel it every single hour of my day! Y'all are the best!
"Remember, Slow and Steady Wins the Race. Zion or Bust!!" -- Ryan Luke Cross

Trek was wonderful and I had so much fun! My family was loving and always had high spirits, even when we were struggling. But we can do hard things, especially while we are singing the whole time  I will always remember this experience and you guys will always be my family! Thanks you so much. -- Pearl Petaia

Trek. Was. Amazing!! If I could describe the whole experience with one word, that word would be "Remember". I made so many memories with my trek family and company. Thanks Robert Tobler and Francys Delgado Tobler for being the BEST Ma and Pa's ever! Ryan, Rhiannon, Pearl, Kayden, Heidi, Whitney, Jared. YOU GUYS ROCK!! -- Mason McInnis

I believe that we are all children of a living God who loves us beyond conception. I believe with all my heart that the Grace of Jesus Christ is sufficient to save all mankind, and more importantly, I believe that His Grace is sufficient to transform Gods children into the people they are meant to be. I believe that the trials we face in these latter days are unique to our time and that we've been given the tools we need to spiritually thrive. I believe that Joseph Smith did see God the Father, and His Son. He was called to translate The Book of Mormon and to restore the Gospel of Jesus Christ in it's fullness on the Earth today. I believe that God succored the saints who obeyed His call for a gathering in the west. I believe that God loves everybody individually and wants to see us become like Him. Just like in Bing Canyon, He has already planted us, his seeds, and he will water us continually through all eternity if we so choose! I believe that a testimony isn't always found on the knees praying for one, but that it can be found on your feet living the principles of righteousness and serving others. My testimony I leave with you, in the name of my Savior, and my Friend, Jesus Christ. Amen -- Ryan Luke Cross

"You . . . can indeed be pioneers in courage, in faith, in

charity, in determination. You can strengthen one another;

 you have the capacity to notice the unnoticed. When you 

have eyes to see, ears to hear, and hearts to feel, you can 

reach out and rescue others." 

—Thomas S. Monson, "Pioneers All"

Some pictures of our journey

Trek Prep Devotional - Jeannie Henderson

"I'd like to make this..... promise to you. If you are faithful, the day will come when those deserving pioneers whom you rightly praise for having overcome the adversities in their wilderness trek will instead praise you for having made your way successfully through a desert of despair, for having passed through a cultural wilderness and having kept the faith." Neal A Maxwell: Faith in Every Footstep Instructor's Guide(CES Manual,1996)

Trek Prep Devotional - Heather Chandler

As I am typing this devotional, the sun is beginning to set, and the cooler air is now moving throughout the house, and fireworks can be heard from some of my neighbors. Simply put, summer has arrived.

Girls Camp for the Bellingham Stake was last week, and for those of us who were at Cascade Park, we can attest that the spirit was in great abundance, along with laughter, singing, and camp cheers. Last week, amid the humidity and rain, my thoughts wandered to Trek…. How will we handle the heat? Have the youth broken in their Trek boots? Do we have our clothes ready? And so on….I’m a planner. I like to know what is expected of me and then organize my list of to-do’s so that I set myself up for personal success. We are now at that stage of our planning (for ma’s and pa’s) where hopefully we have done our physical preparation, and now we are ramping up our spiritual preparation. Our Girls Camp scripture this year (happens to be my all-time favorite, no coincidence in my book) and is found in 2 Nephi 31 verse 20 “Wherefore, ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope, and a love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ, and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life. “

At camp, the young women discussed what it meant to be steadfast in the gospel of Jesus Christ, and how they could be a light to others on their journey. Sis. Elaine Dalton, former General YW President of the church, shared in her conference address in April 2003,   “On a pier in Copenhagen, Denmark, is a bronze statue of a young woman named Kristina. Kristina stands looking out to sea toward her goal to join the Saints in Zion. The wind is blowing against her fiercely, but she does not look back. She is steadfast as she presses forward doing a very hard thing, but one she knows to be right. I love that statue, for to me Kristina represents my own Danish great-great-grandmother who chose to join the Church amid great resistance. I am grateful for her courage and testimony. On her choice that day rested not only my eternal destiny but also the destiny of generations.

In the Book of Mormon, Nephi tells us that we can “press forward” (2 Ne. 31:20). He says we not only can but must. Perhaps Nephi, like Kristina, could see that the steadfast choices of one individual affect generations.”

As we prepare in these finally days leading up to Trek and contemplate how we can best execute the message “with Joy wend your way”. Let us not forget, the Master planner of all, our Heavenly Father. With His help, and guidance of the Holy spirit, those of us who press forward, “pushing and pulling”, will find the joy along the way, and have a better understanding of the great plan of happiness, and where we fit in it. How fortunate we are to be a part of this unique experience. 8 days and counting…… Whew-hew!!

I found this link on Facebook today. I thought you might like to share with friends, family, and co-workers. You know…when they ask, “you’re doing what?”

http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2013/06/30/mormon-teens-commemorate-pioneer-trek/YCg9Sle7ymBktwbzerkNZK/story.html

Sister Heather Chandler

Bellingham 2^nd Ward

Trek Prep Devtional - Eric Hull

I have thoroughly enjoyed the devotional messages that have been sent as a part of this Trek preparation period. I hope to carve out some time to re-read those that I have had time to read and go over those that I have missed! Thank you all for your great influence.

My thoughts at this time are focused on the tremendous sacrifices that were made by early members of the church whether they crossed the plains or followed the message of the gospel in far distant lands.

I also reflect specifically on the life of our beloved Prophet Joseph Smith and his ever faithful brother Hyrum who lost their lives but never denied the faith at the place known as Carthage. I marvel at how my life has forever been blessed by these faithful men and women.

My great-great grandfather Stephen Fairchild Wilson was a young boy as he and his family made the Exodus from Nauvoo. I have selected a few of his journal entries for your reading enjoyment.

1.) When I was about 6 years old, I distinctly remember crossing the Illinois River on a ferryboat moved by a large white horse on a large tread wheel. We were on our way from my birthplace to Nauvoo Illinois and stopped in a grove of timber on Rock Creek about 20 miles rather East of Nauvoo in the spring of 1844 as I remember. Before we left there the sad news of the martyrdom of the prophet Joseph Smith and his brother Hyrum the patriarch of the church, came to us when I was just 6 years and 9 months of age June 27 1844. I remember they all had cried but me. I heard them say they were murdered in Carthage Jail Illinois. I think I could have remembered seeing the prophet if I had had the chance before his death.

2.) Early next spring 1864, my father said we must make a start for Salt Lake City on account of the persecution of our neighbors which grew more and more unbearable day by day. With all the haste we could command under the circumstances we got ready the best we could and father fitted up his span of ponies and light wagon and one morning about 3 or 4 oclock a.m. early in April 1864, he took us by surprise by driving the team into the door post, closed the door and quietly said in a low voice, make haste and load up, no time to lose, and in less time than it takes to write it, Aunt Rebecca and her 6 children, my sister Sarah Alice, and myself with our scanty bedding clothing, a few dishes and small provisions we were packed into the little wagon all ready to start! Father said now- "Stephen is the teamster" and he held the lines while the "teamster" got firmly seated for the ponies were restless and seemed to catch the spirit of it and were impatient to start for Utah!! It was about 4 a.m. and about the 5th of April 1864 when father handed the lines up to me saying "peace and good luck be with you"

I am so excited for our great Trek experience. Thanks to all of the great hands that have helped to lift this event into place!

Eric Hull

Trek Prep Devotional - Ben & Kristina Sutherland

Helaman12:1 

1 And thus we can behold how false, and also the unsteadiness of the hearts of the children of men; yea, we can see that the Lord in his great infinite goodness doth bless and prosper those who put their trust in him. 

We have seen multiple evidences of this throughout our life. We know it to be true.

Kind Regards,

The Sutherland's 

Trek Prep Devotional - Jacob & Maren Price

As we have been making the focus of our studies Trek, we have been talking a lot about obedience to the Gospel and how it brings us blessings. A good talk that has influenced us is "Obedience to the Law is Liberty" by Elder Perry in the Sunday Morning Session of Conference. We have reflected on our lives when we were the Trekkers' age (not too long ago...) and how it's necessary to really come to know the Gospel and have a testimony of Christ and His Atonement because we faced so many different possible pathways in High School. Something we hope to impress upon the minds of the youth is that the Commandments provide us peace, love, joy and safety, just as the primary song teaches. Having this attitude changes our perspective towards God and His laws. We come to appreciate Him and them as we learn this.

Another thought that we had is taught in Malachi of the Old Testament, chapter 3:13 - 18, when God corrects His people and tells them how even though it seems like wickedness does bring happiness, only those who follow His commandments will inherit eternal life. We must not lose sight of the long-term and get lost in the short-term. High Schoolers are surrounded by and tempted to sell out to the short-term pleasures of the world. The Gospel, with an eternal perspective gives us clarity and good discernment in knowing what brings us true and lasting joy. As the majority, if not all of these Trekkers are immersed in worldly short-term-based ideology, we feel (at least for our group) we should reteach the Lord's words that are found in Malachi and Elder Perry's talk.

The Prices

Trek Prep Devotional - Troy & Jema McOmber

"The Latter-day Saints need to remember that those who live now are being called upon to work out our salvation in a special time of intense and immense challenges. The last portion of the dispensation of the fullness of times is during which great tribulation and temptation will occur. The elect will almost be deceived and unrighteous people will be living much as they were in the days of Noah. Therefore, though we have rightly applauded our ancestors for their spiritual achievement and we don't and must not discount them now, those of us who prevail today will have done no small thing. The special spirits who have been reserved to live in this the dispensation of the fullness of times will one day be praised for their stamina by those who pulled handcarts." - Elder Neal A. Maxwell

Troy & Jema McOmber

Trek Prep Devotional - Steve & Teri Booth

I was a newly minted 12-year-old Boy Scout and was on my first canoe trip on the American River.  I loved playing in the water, but was not a strong swimmer.  I was paired up with one of the oldest scouts in the troop for my first canoe trip.  As we moved down the river I started to notice the rocks and shoals just under the surface rushing along below me I started to become more and more concerned that the canoe would strike one, develop a leak and that I would be thrown into the water and need to swim to save myself.  As a 12-year-old this was one of my first looks at mortality.  Near the middle of the day, we came to a large rapid that had claimed the life of a canoer earlier in the month.  I was petrified to go near it.  We were instructed to take the canoes out and portage around the rapid.  As we approached, my fear grew and I began to panic.  I told the older scout that I thought we should get out of the water, but he reassured me that we were ok.  As we got closer, the water came up shallow and I saw my opportunity and actually stepped out of the canoe.  The older scout wisely shouted at me, "What are you doing? I can't navigate this alone.  I need you in the front to help us get through!"  He could have managed by himself, and he could have really teased me about my fear in front of the other boys in the troop, but did neither.  

I got back in the canoe and we safely navigated the portage and the rest of the trip.  My confidence grew and my fears left me by the end of the trip.  I even jumped in once to swim next to the canoe in a calm stretch of the river.  I will never forget the patient mentoring of that older scout, and how he helped me conquer my fear of deep swift moving water.  We have that opportunity to patiently mentor by the spirit the youth that come to trek, and to help them conquer fears and doubts about their lives.  If we can see past the logistical challenges of trek and observe our youth, the spirit will whisper things we can say and do to help them.

Thanks,

Steve

I grew up with phrases that my dad would say over and over.  One of them was, "Can't never did Jack Diddly".  We have turned our family home evenings into three word phrases.  "Don't do drugs", "Credit is evil", "Read the Scriptures".  Last week and for the next few weeks it will be "Keep on Going. . ."

Teri

Trek Prep Devotional - James & Chris King

Francis Webster, a survivor from the Martin Handcart Company shared this:

"We suffered beyond anything you can imagine, and many died of exposure and starvation....[But we] came through with the absolute knowledge that God lives, for we became acquainted with Him in our extremities.

"I have pulled my handcart when I was so weak and weary from illness and lack of food that I could hardly put one foot ahead of the other.  I have looked ahead and seen a patch of sand or a hill slope and I have said, I can go only that far and there I must give up, for I cannot pull the load through it.  I have gone to that sand, and when I reached it, the cart began pushing me.  I have looked back many times to see who was pushing my cart, but my eyes saw no one.  I knew then that the angels of God were there.

"Was I sorry that I chose to come by handcart?  No, Neither then nor any minute of my life since.  The price we paid to become acquainted with God was a privilege to pay, and I am thankful that I was privileged to come in the Martin handcart company."

Many of us at times may feel weak and weary fulfilling our responsibilities, extending service where needed, and just simply dealing with the daily tasks of life.  When exhaustion hits and we feel we can do no more, we are reminded of this story and also what President Richards frequently taught as the saints were called to emigrate.  

"The Lord Helps Those Who Help Themselves."

We are expected to do all we can, and it is hard at times, but when there is no more to give the Lord will send angels to help push our carts. We are so grateful for this knowledge and for the example of our pioneer saints.

We are looking forward to Trek!

James and Chris King 

Reference: "The Price We Paid" The Extraordinary Story of the Willie & Martin Handcart Pioneers: Andrew D. Olsen

Trek Prep Devotional - Richard & Leslie Pollock

As a Boy Scout in 1972, living in El Centro,CA., my troop retraced the small portion of the Mormon Battalion March in our sub-sea-level desert of the Imperial County.  The feeling of reverent exhaustion that overcame our troop later focus our respect to dedicate a monument to their memory at the adjacent freeway rest area.  Pioneers had sacrificed for the kingdom but, I think this church event tested their very patriotism.  I like this quote from the lds.org website: (http://www.lds.org/library/pio_sto/Pioneer_Trail/12_Council_Bluffs.html ).

"Church President Heber J. Grant, whose own parents walked across those bitter plains, spoke of the episode more than 70 years later:

"When the Latter-day Saints were being driven from their homes . . . driven from the confines of the United States onto Mexican soil, the [U.S.] government called on Brigham Young for 500 men to help fight Mexico. Show to me, if you can, in all the history of the world another case of a people being expatriated, being driven from their own country, from their own lands which they had purchased . . . the last remnant of them crossing the Mississippi River in the dead of winter, on the ice, nine babies being born during the night of that terrible expulsion, with no shelter . . . going forth on their journey of a thousand miles in the wilderness, after having appealed to the president of their republic, who could only say: "Your cause is just, but we can do nothing for you" (see Endnote 1)—show me another people, I say, who under like circumstances would have furnished 500 men to fight their country's battles! Show me greater patriotism and loyalty to country than this! It can't be done."¹²

And yet it could not have possibly been loyalty to country that impelled many of the Mormon Battalion soldiers, wives and children. They walked half a continent. They blazed a road. They etched their names in history.

But this was a conquest of faith."

Reference: 12-Conference Report, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, October 1919, 33.

Richard & Leslie Pollock

Trek Prep Devotional - Jason & Bobbilyn Hogge

One of the greatest blessings in our family's journey has been living in the Midwest and New York.  In both locations we took full advantage of being so close to church history sites and visited them every time we got  the chance.  The spirit in these sacred places was undeniable.  Nauvoo has always a favorite of mine, but I'll never forget attending the Nauvoo temple for the first time as it was dedicated.  All temples have an immediate calm and comforting spirit that speaks to our spirits from the moment we enter the doors, but Nauvoo for me has always had such a tangible undeniable spirit that penetrates my soul.  I not only feel the overwhelming love of our Heavenly Father and the Savior there but also the deep love, devotion, and dedication of the early saints who gave their last pennies and most prized possessions along with countless hours of manpower to build their beautiful temple so that they could worship and serve there.  I can't imagine the tremendous feeling of loss and sadness as they watched as it was burned to the ground.  It's almost too much for me to comprehend.  But as I visit now I can feel that amazing spirit of those early saints, their love, incredible faith, and tremendous joy that their beloved temple has been rebuilt. What a powerful witness of their their devotion to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

Elder L. Tom Perry taught “There is a special spirit in these older temples, which were constructed at great sacrifice by the early pioneers. … As we progressed through the temple session, I could hear in every room those early pioneers saying, ‘Look at what we built with our own hands. We had no power equipment. No contractors or subcontractors were involved in the construction, no fancy cranes to lift up the heavy stones. We performed this labor under our own power.’”

Reflecting on this heritage that the early pioneers left, Elder Perry remembers the words of a former president of the United States, who talked about “[going] back to the past way of thinking.”

“His counsel still resonates within me,” Elder Perry says. “There is something about reviewing the lessons of the past to prepare us to face the challenges of the future. What a glorious legacy of faith, courage, and ingenuity those noble early Mormon pioneers have left for us to build upon. My admiration for them deepens the longer I live.”

I love this thought of taking the immense gift of their sacrifice and building upon it.  I'm grateful for this opportunity in a very small way to remember and review these incredible lessons from the past.

Jason and Bobbilyn Hogge

Trek Prep Devotional - Zack & Sarah Serad

Elder Uchtdorf said, " healing comes when we choose to walk away from darkness and move toward a brighter light."

Certain events in our lives and in the world rob us of peace, wound us, and make us vulnerable. We may feel as though we are surrounded by darkness. But, God promises the hope of His light. To find this light though takes an act of faith. We must flip the switch and make that first step. 

"It is better to look up." We all need to understand and accept that darkness exists. But light also exists and that is where we should choose to dwell. God's light is real and available to all. We can find joy and hope by living the standards of the restored gospel and turning to our Savior. 

Zack and Sarah Serad

Trek Prep Devotional - Brien & Annie Reed

"You don't have to push a handcart, or leave your family dear.  Or walk a thousand miles or more to be a Pioneer."

"You do have to have great courage.  Faith to conquer fear, and work with might for a cause that's right to be a Pioneer."

I do not come from Mormon Pioneer heritage.  There were never any stories growing up of any of my Reed ancestors pushing handcarts or making their way across the plains.  However, there were the stories of my Mother's conversion in her early 20's and of the choices my parents made to "pioneer" our family into the Light of the Gospel.  In the dictionary, one of the definitions of pioneer is to: "develop, or be the first to use or apply a new method, area of knowledge, or activity.  And so it was with the Ricke and Anni Reed family.  My mom and dad made the decision to apply a new method to build the Reed family spiritually and it paid great dividends.  Of the six of us kids, three have served missions, one is finishing his, and the "baby" will be leaving in August.

I have my own family now, and we continue to apply the Gospel of Jesus Christ every day.  We "pioneer" every day as we cross through the hills and valleys of life.  We are constantly developing our spiritual pathways, and pushing forward with the hope of a better tomorrow.  We love life and are blessed beyond words.  Having said that, we are not "jumping for joy" to go on Trek.  We are not, how should you say it, "outdoorsy" people.  But, we love the gospel, we support our leaders, and we were called to do this.  We believe in honoring and sustaining those who are over us and accept their inspiration, knowing that we will be blessed and strengthened.  We love the youth.

We do not believe in coincidences.  It will not be a "chance" meeting when we meet with our trek families.  We will be prepared to do and say the things that the Lord would do and say if He were there.  There will be youth that will need to hear our voices and our stories.  Sixteen years ago, I went on Trek.  Bishop and Sister Usery of Bellingham were my Pa and Ma.  Sister Usery told us that she was the only member of the church in her family.  She decided to be the pioneer and to be baptized when no one else in her family would.  Her story touched me then and strengthened me and my testimony of temples and of Eternal Families.  Her courage, strength, and resolve still brings tears to my eyes after all these years.  She was prepared to say the things that I needed to hear and that left a lasting impression on me.  

We will be ready to work hard, sweat, sing, laugh, and cry with our youth.  We will be ready to bear powerful testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ and of His Atonement.  We will share our stories with them and will encourage them to share their story with us.  We will see miracles.  May we be ready for this life-changing event...is my humble prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Brien and Annie Reed

Trek Prep Devotional - Troy & Tina Clark

As Troy and I discussed the topic of this devotional we felt that we could use the reminder of balance in our lives.  We as Ma's and Pa's have a lot to do before trek which is approaching quickly.  If you are like us, you have many family obligations, work obligations and church callings that need your attention.  Thinking about preparing for trek can sometimes bring on a feeling of being overwhelmed with the tasks that are required of us.  Finding balance in our lives, is what helps bring peace to us as we day by day, sometimes minute by minute accomplish our responsibilities. We have learned when we consecrate our performances unto the Lord as instructed in 2 Nephi 32:9, things go smoother, even when the task at hand seems overwhelming or just plain impossible. We experienced the importance of consecration a few years ago during a remodel of our home.  We were trying to save as much money as possible so decided to do all the tile work on our own.  We had plans to tile kitchen, dining room, hallways, bathrooms and laundry rooms.  No small job. Neither of us had tiled before.  We did some studying, asked a few experts for some advice, bought all our supplies and prepared to tile.  Our first room was the kitchen, of all places to tile for the first time, but as we started Troy said, "You know we better consecrate this unto the Lord, he knows this is important to us and will help us."  We learned a lot in that remodel, and the tile work came out beautiful, in fact we get many compliments.  We know Heavenly Father guided us as we cut, set and grouted each tile into its place.  This may seem a small thing, but because it was important to us it was important to our Heavenly father.   These young men and young women who will be in our care for those few days need us to be prepared for them.  Satan knows what an instrument we can be to God during this time and will try to keep us "off balance" so that we may not be as prepared as we would want to share in the spiritual and physical growth experiences that come with trek.  We encourage all of us to consecrate our trek performance unto the Lord.  Our experience tells us that we will be blessed as we move forward with the tasks we have been assigned.

Troy and Tina Clark

Trek Prep Devotional - Justin & Catherine Yeates

In April conference Elder Scott gave a talk on bringing peace into our homes.  As it has been pointed out in previous devotionals, some of the youth that are coming on trek may not have that peace in their homes or lives.  What a wonderful opportunity we have to help them unplug from the world and tune-in to the peace and love that only Christ can bring (John 14:27).  This will be a challenge for many of the youth and some will surely resist.  Emulating the Savior's patience and love will help soften the rebellious hearts.  Elder Scott said, "Recognize the good in others, not their stains. At times a stain needs appropriate attention to be cleansed, but always build on his or her virtues."

I recommend this talk in our preparation, so that we can gain our own, personal insights on how to best bring the Spirit to our trek families.

"For Peace At Home"  Elder Richard G. Scott (https://www.lds.org/general-conference/print/2013/04/for-peace-at-home?lang=eng)

Justin and Catherine Yeates

June Trek Tips

It will be hot on the Trek trail. Some trekkers carry a small “mister” spray bottle for cooling (but remember everything has to fit in a 5-gallon bucket and a Big Bag Ziploc).

http://www.amazon.com/MistyMate-10025-Hand-Held-Personal-Mister/dp/B0009KBKQ4/ref=pd_sim_lg_5

Another option is a handmade cooler scarf. An American Legion Auxiliary group makes these for US troops. You can find instructions at http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=vawDKXGBLSc&feature=fvwp. The polymer gel crystals for the scarf can be purchased at garden nurseries or craft stores (Michaels, Hobby Lobby, etc.). A commercial product is shown below.

A pair of work gloves may help prevent blisters for those pushing/pulling the handcarts. Finger-less gloves may be more comfortable and cool. Bicycle gloves would work. They are light weight and compact.

Trek Prep Devotional - Lisa Johnson

In this amazing time in the church where His work is being hastened and record amounts of saints, young and old, are accepting the call to serve the Lord full time it has become clearer to me that missionary work is eternally connected with pioneers.

Samuel Smith was the first missionary of the church. He set out, on foot not knowing what an impact on the church his journey would have. His first day had not been a success. After walking 25 miles and not selling even one Book of Mormon, he was hungry, tired and discouraged. That night Samuel slept on the damp ground, under an apple tree. The local innkeeper wouldn't allow him to stay in his inn… calling him a “Liar” after Samuel testified of the Book of Mormon and it being translated from Gold Plates.

I have pondered this first night… how discouraged Samuel was. How I might have wanted to turn around and go home if I were him. Then I think about what happened the next day and remember that it is often through the trials of our faith that we gain a testimony of something or gain the blessing of MORE FAITH.  Samuel shared a copy of the Book of Mormon with John Greene that next day. Mr. Green was Brigham Young’s brother in law. Through many amazing circumstances that followed the entire Young family was baptized! (you can read more about this account in this wonderful article… https://www.lds.org/new-era/2004/09/the-first-latter-day-missionary?lang=eng)

Moving past the trials of his first day and night, Samuel kept his extraordinary faith. Each person that was taught and baptized as a result of his labors became pioneers, breaking the trail for their own families’ path in the Gospel, on earth and for ancestors who had gone before them. 

Each missionary that serves now is seeking, teaching and inviting others to come unto Christ and be baptized. Those who accept become modern day pioneers. They have many trials, sometimes persecution and life altering changes ahead.  Breaking a trail is never easy. Whether it’s being the first pioneer handcart on the trail west… or being the first member of your family to accept the Gospel, each effort is a trial of faith.

As we prepare for this Trek adventure I often contemplate that there will be trials of faith along the Trek Trail. I draw strength from those who have gone before me, breaking the trail… and from the ability, though Christ, to break our own.

Lisa Johnson

Trek Prep Devotional - Doug & Becky Ross

ALL HANDS ON DECK:

We love this message from Elder Rasband in the April 2006 General Conference:

“Many of [the youth] are remarkable in their spiritual maturity and in their faith. But even the best of them are sorely tested. And the testing will become more severe.

"This warning that “the testing will become more severe” gets my attention. Our rising generation is worthy of our best efforts to support and strengthen them in their journey to adulthood.

"In these perilous times, as our youth are faced with this increased adversity, we can learn from others. In the armed forces, particularly in all the navies throughout the world, every seaman understands one phrase that is a clarion call for immediate help, no matter what he is doing or where he is on the ship. The call is “All hands on deck.” Many a battle at sea has been won or lost by the response to this call.

"We—as members of the Church... all need to respond to the call for “all hands on deck” as it pertains to our youth and young single adults. We must all look for opportunities to bless the youth whether or not we are currently closely associated with them. We must continue to teach and fortify fathers and mothers in their divinely declared roles with their children in the home. We must ask ourselves constantly if that extra sporting event, that extra activity or errand outside of the home is more important than families being together at home.

"Now is the time... when in every action we take, in every place we go, with every Latter-day Saint young person we meet, we need to have an increased awareness of the need for strengthening, nurturing, and being an influence for good in their lives."

What a great message, as we all commit to give the youth our best efforts. See you all soon!

Doug & Becky Ross

Trek Prep Devotional - Francys & Robert Tobler

Here's part of our Pioneer Heritage (Trek Devotional) to share with you all.  Thanks for all of the Trek Devotionals forwarded so far.  Can't wait for July!

John Stettler Stucki

Born: 1850 Died: 1933

Children's Story: At the age of nine, John traveled west with a handcart company in 1860. He endured hunger and fatigue and experienced a special kind of love from his father.

Biography: © 1994 Deseret Book Company. All rights reserved.

Born: December 13, 1850, Heirstetten, Bern, Switzerland
Parents: Samuel and Magdalena Stettler Stucki
1860: Oscar O. Stoddard Handcart Company

Age at time of journey: 9

My dear mother had a little baby to nurse, and only having half enough to eat and to pull on the handcart all day long, day after day, she soon got so weak and worn out that she could not help Father anymore. Nor was she able to keep up with the Company. Sometimes when we camped, she was so far behind the Company we could not see anything of her for quite a while, so that I was afraid she might not be able to get to the camp.

I have never forgotten how when I, a nine-year-old boy, would be so tired that I would wish I could sit down for just a few minutes. How much good it would do to me. But instead of that, my dear, nearly worn-out father would ask me if I could not push a little more on the handcart.

When one of the teamsters, seeing two buffaloes near the oxen, shot one of them, the meat was divided among the whole handcart company. My parents also got a small piece, which my father put in the back end of the handcart. That was in the fore part of the week. Father said we would save it for our dinner next Sunday. I was so very hungry all the time, and the meat smelled so good to me while pushing at the handcart, and having a little pocketknife, I could not resist but had to cut off a piece or two each half day. Although I was afraid of getting a severe whipping after cutting a little the first few times, I could not resist taking a little each half day. I would chew it so long it got tasteless.

When father went to get the meat on Sunday noon, he asked me if I had been cutting off some of it. I said, "Yes, I was so hungry that I could not let it alone." Then, instead of giving me the severe scolding or whipping, he did not say a word but started to wipe the tears from his eyes.

The Stucki family settled with other Swiss Saints in Santa Clara, Utah, in 1861. As a young boy, John helped build the St. George Temple. He married Barbara Baumann, Karolina Heimberg, and Louise Reichenbach. John was the father of twenty-four children, eight of whom were adopted. He was called on a mission to Switzerland, where he served as conference president. After returning home, he taught religion classes. John died March 26, 1933, in Santa Clara, Washington County, Utah.

Source: Family History Journal of John S. Stucki, 7, 18-21, 40-46. Salt Lake City: Pyramid Press, 1932. A typescript of the original journal is in the Harold B. Lee Library, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah.

 

 

Kindly, Francys and Robert Tobler

Trek Med Tip #2 - Self Care

Youth Self Care

It is likely that some of the youth in your “family” will be self-administering medications. The conditions that will likely be treated by the youth will include: asthma, allergies, and diabetes. The following reviews of some of the conditions and medications you might see being used, and will try to help you know when and how to intervene, if needed

Asthma:

These youth will have inhalers, perhaps two, and should be allowed to use them, as they see fit. At this age, they will know how to use them. There are a few signs that would indicate a need to notify the medics. Call us if you see:

• Frequent use [normally should only be using an inhaler up to 4 times/day]
• Labored breathing [fast shallow breathing, unable to speak in full sentences, sucking in of the skin above the collarbone, or having to brace their chest by leaning their arms on their legs], sweating [more than expected for temp], and confusion

Let them use their inhaler, move to, or make shade, hydrate, loosen clothing, fan to cool, and call medics

Allergies:

Many of the youth may have allergy pills [Zyrtec/Claritin]. Some of the youth will have an “epi-pen”, this is for treatment of severe allergic reactions. If they tell you that they need to use the epi-pen, facilitate their use of the medication. If they start to use it, and become unconscious, give them the medication. The following video discusses the signs and symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, and use of the epi-pen:

[ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pgvnt8YA7r8 ] {<3 min of pertinent info]

Diabetes:

There will be a few insulin dependent diabetics. These youth may be in families with a medically trained Ma/Pa, but if not, they will be checking their blood sugar and administering insulin. They may need a small cooler for their insulin, and they will need access to snacks. Signs of a low insulin reaction include:

• Confusion
• Sweaty
• Tremulous
• Loss of coordination

They also may have an injector kit, if they feel that they need it, facilitate their use of the medication, move them to the shade, hydrate, fan-cool, give a carbohydrate snack if still conscious, and call for medics.

If a Ma/Pa takes any pain meds or psych meds, please keep them on your person, or in a locked container!!!

-- Jim Perez