Vol. 4, No. 2 - February, 1957

"Lost Time is Lost Eternity"

In a careful analysis of last year's records we learn this truth, that the number of baptisms are in direct proportion to the number of proselyting hours put in. We noticed that two to three months following a high month of proselyting hours there was always an upsurge in the number of baptisms effected throughout the mission, and by the same token, a decrease in baptisms always followed swiftly upon the heels of a month low in proselyting hours.
One of the great virtues that all missionaries should endeavor to develop is that of consistency, in effort, in action, and in thought. It is through consistent effort that we can all achieve greater goals and learn to utilize our time to the utmost.
Don't wait until tomorrow, when conditions might be different--a new companion or a new branch--but begin today. An anonymous poet expressed it thusly:

Dream not too much of what you will do tomorrow,
How well you will work perhaps another year;
Tomorrow's chance you do not need to borrow--
Today is here!
Boast not too much of mountains you will master,
The while you linger in the vale below;
To dream is well, but plodding brings us faster
To where we go.
Talk not too much about some new endeavor
You mean to make a little later on;
Who idles now will idle on forever
Till life is done.
Swear not some day to break some habit's fetter,
When this old year is dead and passed away;
If you have need of living wisher, better,--
Better being today!

If you, as companions, would prepare two converts per month for baptism, then today is the day to start. Catch the missionary enthusiastic spirit to take this message to just one more today, and you will find that through your consistent efforts you will achieve your desire--of becoming a successful missionary.
Be happy in this work through learning obedience to the will of the Lord. Be appreciative to every act of kindness shown to you by those in and out of the Church. Always thank your dona upon your departure from one branch to another; your thoughtfulness may be all that is required to get her interested in investigating the Restored Gospel. Be united with your brethren in furthering this great work.

Sincerly, your brother,
Asael T. Sorensen

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"Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve hum with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day."
Sec. 4:2, D&C