Hello Dearest Family,
As this is my final weekly
letter as a missionary, I hope that I can convey the great spirit of
missionary work within my words. This has truly been the greatest time
of my life thus far. There have been times of great joy and times of
great sorrow. I would have asked for almost all of them again, as I have
grown in all situations. These past 25 months have been the greatest
education I could ever receive. A true understanding of the Gospel will
reach into all facets of ones life. The Doctrines and principles taught
are not only applicable in the classroom, but in the very breath of life
itself. It has helped me to live with people, understand others more
clearly, love others more unconditionally, and serve others more fully.
"True doctrine, understood, changes attitudes and behavior. The study of
the doctrines of the gospel will improve behavior quicker than a study
of behavior will improve behavior." ~ Pres. Boyd K. Packer. There has
never been a better time in which I was able to solely study the gospel
and apply it in every facet of my life. This has wrought a great change
in my heart, one that could never have been accomplished by any other
means. I would implore and invite everyone who reads this email to
prepare themselves to follow the Savior and serve God as a Full-time
missionary. Young Men and Young Women can prepare to serve. Senior
couples or Sisters can serve as invaluable support roles. They really do
keep the young missionaries alive and well here. If one prepares well
and serves well, the greatest adventure, experience, and improvement
will come to your life. This has truly happened to me.
The people whom I have served have truly touched my life more
than theirs. In Kota Samarahan I was able to teach, inspire and uplift
many of the Village-folk to follow the Saviors example and be baptized.
There I was taught about how to work hard and to love people with all of
your heart. In Sandakan, I learned about the importance of Hope, and
Hope that is based upon the Atonement of the Savior. Never is such a
time did I have to rely upon the merits of Christ, to keep me going
every day and to come together with my companion, despite our
differences, and to preform the work of the Lord. Later in Kota Kinabalu
I was able to witness the Church of Malaysia in its greatest
efficiency, and about the faithfulness of these people. I learned about
humility from many of my investigators, who were truly living on
threads at times. However, God used my vessel to reach out to these
people and deliver the words which he would speak. "Behold, I bring you
good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people." It truly was
some of my greatest joys and I developed some eternal friends there.
Upon moving to Miri, I discovered the wonderful world of Positive
Attitude. There was not a day in that area in which I did not roar with
laughter, or feel great joy! The Hodders (Senior Couple) taught me by
example about the Spirit of Christmas, and how it can bring incredible
Charity to ones life. It truly was a Miri-aculous time. Then came the
call to serve as an assistant to President Clark. Boy I had no idea what
that would entail. I have learned more, grown more, and become more in
these past 6 months than in any other time of my life. My most treasured
times were when we would sit in council with President Clark in his
office, and he would teach and train and expound the doctrines of the
Kingdom to us. I feel as if that man has altered the course of my life.
Serving other missionaries has proved to be a challenging and rewarding
task. When one gives their whole heart and mind, the duties of being an
assistant really can seem heavy, yet the rewards of seeing others
success and growth in equally light. This has truly been the greatest
time of my life. I love being a missionary :D
This last week in Sabah I was able to see many an old friend,
recent convert, and see the growth that the area has made in my absence.
It has been so incredible to see how the Lords work goes forth even
when we as individuals are gone. It really attributes to the power of
the work. It is not about the missionary, but those whom he serves. His
investigators, his companions, his family, his God. I have loved me
mission and it has been the greatest decision I have ever made. I love
the Lord, I Love this Gospel.
Your Loving Friend, Brother, and Son
Elder Willem Kampenhout
P.S.
Picture is us with the Elder Dallin H. Oaks, Elder Hallstrom
(Presidency of the 70) , Bishop Davies (Presiding Bishopric), and Elder
Watson (Asia Area Presidency).
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