In this episode of the 'Can You Feel So Now?' podcast, host Justin Barton speaks with Samuel Spencer, a recently returned missionary of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Samuel shares his experiences from serving in West Africa in the Benin, Cotonou Mission, discussing cultural shocks, his efforts to consecrate himself to missionary work, and the personal challenges he faced, including a traumatic event close to the end of his mission. He talks about the importance of setting daily purposes, the impact of the gospel on his life, and the lessons learned from the distinct phases of his mission. The discussion also dives into the significance of service, maintaining faith during hardships, and adapting to life post-mission while staying focused on spiritual goals.

00:00 Introduction and Host's Gratitude

00:26 Meet Samuel Spencer

00:40 Samuel's Background and Hobbies

01:44 Playing Guitar on the Mission

03:05 Mission Location and Language

04:54 Cultural Adjustments in West Africa

08:04 Open-Mindedness and Adaptability

14:09 Consecration and Mission Goals

17:59 Daily Purpose and Journaling

23:00 Challenges and Perseverance

24:44 A Traumatic Experience in Africa

25:48 Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms

26:51 Reevaluating Life's Purpose

28:29 Impact of Medical Training on Future Goals

29:49 Lessons Learned: Letting God Prevail

32:58 The Power of Service and Scripture

40:55 Post-Mission Challenges and Reflections

47:42 Testimony and Final Thoughts

If you or someone you know and love has very recently returned from their mission and would like to record a similar conversation, please send an email to [email protected] and we will line it up.

If you have felt a desire to make a change in your life due to anything said in this conversation, I invite you to get out and do something about it now, so that when the questions is asked, "Can You Feel So Now?", you can answer with a resounding YES!

If you find value in this project and would like to support its growth, please consider contributing anything you can. Venmo: @Justin-Barton-33 last 4 of phone is 8541