Chapter 9: Turnin' up the heat!

Amber Prior
May 19
4 min read

Updated: Jul 28

May 12, 2025

Weeks in the mission: 12 Photos: Photo Album

Quote of the week:"That was the best referral I've gotten from the last 6 months." — Elder Potts

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Hello friends and family!!! Welcome to chapter 9! This week was filled with memories and experiences. So much has happened. But then again, isn't that every week?

First off—HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!! Mom, I love you so very much. You've done countless things to raise me—so many sacrifices I'll never even know. And to all the other moms out there: you're vital to your children and your families.

The days here in Riverside are starting to get real toasty. It’s like God turned the stove knob to ignite and then medium. This last weekend, we biked all day in the 100° sun. Thankfully, there was a breeze—but Elder Winter says soon even the breeze will be hot. This is just a taste of summer. On the bright side, I’m building a solid farmer’s tan!

We’re finally gaining some traction in the work. We’ve got a friend named Otis who’s amazing—he’s meeting with us regularly and actually reading the Book of Mormon!

Also, we asked the Elders Quorum in our Spanish ward to make flyers for our weekly English class (Tuesdays) and sports night (Fridays). They’re planning to post them around town and on social media. I’m gonna hold them to it—because this could be BIG. These events could bring people into the orbit of the restored gospel and show them the joy and purpose it brings.

This Saturday, I went on exchanges with Elder Potts in an English-speaking area—and it was probably my favorite day of the week. We saw miracles. More on that below.

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Journal Excerpts

🔸 Wednesday We had two awesome things happen today! First, we talked to a woman outside her house who genuinely listened—it felt so natural. I know we made an impact. Second, we had a lesson with our friend Art. This guy is wild. He started telling us about the things he’s done—including some heavy stuff. But it was such a blessing that Hermano Moreno came with us. He’s made some big mistakes too and was the perfect person to be there. We invited Art to sports night and to church. My hopes are high.

🔸 Thursday A solid day! We didn’t talk to as many people as I’d hoped, but we gave it our all.Later in the evening, we met a man in his front yard with his friends. He was drunk and started going off—talking about Muslims, flat earth theories, and “crazy Mormons.” It was the first time I faced confrontation like that on the mission, but honestly—I felt no fear at all. I was calm the entire time and even found it kind of funny.

🔸 Friday We biked through the heat today. The wind helped cool us down.We’re improving at talking to everyone we see—something I’m still working on. It’s scary sometimes, but I remember how important this message is.We also reconnected with a member who hasn’t been to church in a long time because of work. She’s super faithful, and she lives in an area with only Spanish speakers—perfect for me and Elder Winter.That night, I started exchanges with Elder Potts!

🔸 Saturday Exchanges were awesome! We worked hard and found a few new people interested in learning more.We met Jesus, who only speaks Spanish (in an English area, ironically), and gave a powerful message to a sweet lady who opened her door. She said it was refreshing to see young people with discipline and standards. The Spirit was strong. We gave her a Book of Mormon and she genuinely committed to reading it.My favorite moment: we got a referral right as we were pulling out our phones to call another set of Elders. His name is Julian, and he had deep, genuine questions. We talked to him for a while—felt like friends by the end of the call. He even said, “Thanks for the call. I needed it.” He’s in Elder Pott’s area though—so I don’t get to teach him 😢 but I know he’s in good hands.Also met a cool kid named Maxwell. Gave him a Book of Mormon and one of my multicolored pens just because I figured he’d like it.

🔸 Sunday A great day! I’m so grateful to be a missionary.Unfortunately, none of our friends came to church—Otis slept in, Art didn’t answer, and Manuel didn’t get picked up.We spoke to Hermano Caro about the flyer idea again—he’s going to get the Elder’s Quorum working on it.Also, Hermano Caro gave a talk in sacrament and randomly played a cheesy poem audio with background music. So funny. The bishop looked surprised, and we all kept making eye contact trying not to laugh.After church, we worked hard—and I felt zero fear approaching people. It was a great feeling.

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☀️ Spiritual Thought ☀️

The beginning of this week was hard. I kept having thoughts like, “I’m not doing enough,” or “I could’ve done better.” It was discouraging.

But I’ve come to see how aware and loving Heavenly Father really is. He has a plan for each of us. Being in this apartment, with Elder Winter, I’ve been learning vital lessons—like how not to overwork myself and fall into a pit of self-doubt. Elder Winter works hard, but he also knows when to relax. There’s a time and season for everything.

I’ve started recognizing that I do work hard—and I’m learning to give myself credit. To find joy in the process. That’s something I’ll carry with me throughout the rest of my mission—and life.

So to anyone reading this:God has a plan for you. He sees what you’re becoming. He’ll teach you what you need to know in the way only He can.

I invite you to pause after your prayers and just listen. His Spirit is speaking. And if you pay attention, you’ll feel it.

I love you all!

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