Dallin Fuller was sent home due to covid when he had the impression he needed to stay home. Confused but faithful, he has found ways to serve and minister outside the usual 2-year mission. One of these opportunities was being a counselor at FSY this last year.
Please reach out if you want to share your story, whether by having it read out loud on the podcast or coming on as a guest. You can reach me at Releasedthepodcast@gmail.com.
Please leave a review, rate, subscribe and share because it helps me push it out to more returning missionaries needing help support.
Follow me on IG, TT, Youtube, and Facebook
Talmage Thayne
Remember, God is good and is planning on your success. And though you've been released from your mission, you haven't been released from your ministry.
Dallin Fuller was sent home due to covid when he had the impression he needed to stay home. Confused but faithful, he has found ways to serve and minister outside the usual 2-year mission. One of these opportunities was being a counselor at FSY this last year.
Please reach out if you want to share your story, whether by having it read out loud on the podcast or coming on as a guest. You can reach me at Releasedthepodcast@gmail.com.
Please leave a review, rate, subscribe and share because it helps me push it out to more returning missionaries needing help support.
Follow me on IG, TT, Youtube, and Facebook
Talmage Thayne
Remember, God is good and is planning on your success. And though you've been released from your mission, you haven't been released from your ministry.
Welcome back to release the podcast. This episode is a fun one. So I'm really glad I was able to get this episode out to you guys today because I wasn't able to give you a full episode last week. My computer broke I wasn't able to edit this. And so it was great to finish this up and get it out to you. We talked about how he came home early from his mission due to COVID and also about some of the things he's learned since being home. Serving as an FS ye counselor, and understanding everybody is going through their own struggles. Dallin fuller is from Mesa, Arizona. He lived there for 22 years, is the third of six children. He just recently moved up to Oregon and is currently working to go back to Arizona to start school at Arizona State University. He is studying exercise science and is currently planning to graduate fall of 2024. Dallin loves any type of sport, especially loves football and go into the gym. He was a counselor at Fs y the summer of 2022 and loved every minute of it. He loves to be around people and excels at helping everybody feel included we're not going away 1000 miles away Welcome to release the podcast. I'm excited to have my roommate Dallin fuller on the podcast. That's how you say your last name.
Dallin:Yeah. Like it's really I don't think I've ever heard it said out loud. Yeah, I don't think we've talked about the last names in the house. But yeah, you're in my phone is Dallin roomy. That's cute. Your your Talmage Thayne and mine. So glad to be back. I forgot your last name before you figured out mine so
Talmage:and he was nice enough to bring me a fizzy drink. And so what is what's in this?
Dallin:Sugar free coconut sugar free vanilla strawberry puree with water and coconut cream on top. darktable
Talmage:so if you're looking for something that is delicious, yet not packed with sugar. This is your drink right here. What's it called?
Dallin:The strawberry splash.
Talmage:A strawberry splash. I like it. Good. Okay. I'm so Dallin we've known each other for five months. You moved in in December?
Dallin:January. January. Yeah. So it's been like 434. I listed like three or four. Really? Oh, yeah. Because in December now, I got the flu. Yeah, I remember January 4, actually.
Talmage:That Oh, yeah. Yeah, you did now that I'm thinking about it.
Dallin:So yeah, it's only it's three and a half months about now. So that's really, it feels like I've known what same thing with like, my girlfriend is and she's just like, we'd like been dating for like, it's no, it's it hasn't been that long. But this time, three months. Yeah. So it feels like we've been here forever.
Talmage:So well. You actually started dating her the day you moved in? Yeah, that is amazing.
Dallin:We talked for like a month. Like we got to the point we're like, okay, like we know we're gonna date. It's like, just like when we get there. We're just decided to or yeah,
Talmage:when you guys when you told us. I wasn't there when he told that everybody but tough was like Talmage everybody in this house has a girlfriend except for me. And you? I'm like, I know a
Dallin:couple of weeks later, you're talking to somebody and tough like, what the heck.
Talmage:But then he's like, and Dallin freaking moves to Utah and gets a girlfriend the same day. Right? Yeah, dude, is he's on it.
Dallin:And I was like, I like to bring it like tough. You just like, left because I was like, Oh my God. They're like, okay, like they're I have roommates. Cool. And then everybody's gone. I'm like, sitting by myself. I have nothing to do. I'm all unpacked.
Talmage:This is Leia place. It was.
Dallin:I was like, Okay, this is fun. I'm just waiting for busy Alpha work now until she can come in like, Go on. Go on a date. Yeah, it looks good. I was like, Okay, we're Bye, guys. I guess.
Talmage:That's so funny. Yeah. Yeah, dude, it was fun. It was fun having you move in because I felt like you. I felt like you brought a really good energy into the apartment.
Dallin:I wouldn't. I don't know how it was before.
Talmage:I think you did. Okay, here's the thing before you came TOF was away in Spain for three months. I remember that. I was working a lot. I never saw the roommate. When I was home. Everybody was in the room. We didn't Oh, yeah. 100% Yeah, we didn't really talk now. And it's not that we didn't like each other's We're all doing our own thing. And the TOF came back that was sick and then you came in and the culture of the roomies was a lot better at that point. So you're a big part of it.
Dallin:I'm just happy to be here.
Talmage:You're here. You're here. Well, Dallin, could you let's get into your story. Can you tell us a quick summary about like, who you are, where you're from? And why you decided to go on a mission? Yeah.
Dallin:So I'm from Mesa, Arizona, born and raised, I've lived there my entire life. Moving appears like the first time I've ever been away from except for my mission, like I was out for four months. One thing that my parents just really instilled in me is just be being a person of your word. If you're gonna say something that you better, like you better do it just because like, at the end of the day, your words what you have. And I don't know, just when somebody tells gossip or other people will tell me stuff. And I'm like, okay, that they're going to do that. Like my parents instilled that, like that's how the world works. Like you say what you do? How just like confused me? Like, why didn't this person like they said, they're gonna do that? Yeah. Why did they do that? I was like, so that's something I had to learn, but they just did really good. It's just like, just, like, instilling on hard work and, and just being like, a word person and like, being true to your word. Yeah. That's how you say that. I was like, trying to word you use the word integrity, but it didn't really fit in there. Yeah. Being true to your word. And to to like, who you are. A person of integrity. Exactly. Yeah.
Talmage:That's, that's a solid lesson. That's not taught as much.
Dallin:Yeah, I really appreciate it. And then just them just teach me like, hey, like, there's you can have needs in your life, like food, water, this this, like, those are needed. Like, other stuff like you don't, that you don't need, but you want. They taught me really, really good, like the difference between needs and wants. And it's helped me like throughout my life, and so yeah, I think those are probably like, they're really two biggest things I reflect on like, yeah, those are really made a difference in means just like being able to work hard and nobody needs. Yeah,
Talmage:did that sick. And so what made you want to serve a mission?
Dallin:I never wanted to serve a mission. Everyone was going up. I like, I was like, I don't want to go. Yeah, I was like, no, no, you're honest with it. Yeah. I like I don't really know what really clicked. It was like, Why did you? Like when I got my picture? I was like, oh, like, sure mission. Like, okay, like, cool. Like, I guess I like I'm gonna go then. I don't really remember. Questions. I remember just been like, okay, like, this is something I want to do now. So like, I grew up, like, never want to go like all throughout high school, and I'm like, Okay, I'll go. Kinda like, I know, this is something I should do. And I'm gonna do it kind of thing. So I just was like, Okay, I'm gonna like something about me. I made the decision. Just that quick. I couldn't pinpoint like a time like, Yes, this is this is for me. This one. Yeah. But you're just like, Yeah, but one thing about me like my parents, like, like, once I put my mind to something like, there's no changing it. It's like, only I can change my mind about doing something. Yeah. And so like, so like, I was like, Okay, I'm gonna do it. And so I just did what I needed to do to do it. I want to leave like right after high school, like that summer, like my parents like, Oh, okay. So part of the mission is you're paying, you're gonna pay for a majority of it. Yeah, kind of thing. Like, she was like, okay, so I didn't go end up going till like November later that year. Just because I said have a ton of money. And like, I remember like, telling us, I was like, oh, yeah, like I say this, like up this woman was like, you save that much. I was like, yeah, that's all me. He's like, okay, cool. My parents cover the rest of what I couldn't do. So. Yeah, that was really cool.
Talmage:That is sick. Yeah, not not a ton of people have the grit to save up for deletion.
Dallin:It was a summer, like I was working construction. Like, some houses, I'd have to wake up at 345 in the morning, usually a week before and be there. Leave my house by 430 and then get there at five and start and work till like two or three days in the Arizona sun. There's a couple times or like two times I remember like, I just got heat exhaustion. Yeah, just like my boss. Like, I got 110 degrees. Sometimes like a heatwave. 115
Talmage:Oh my gosh. Yeah. So it's a lot harder when I started sweating it like 75 You're telling
Dallin:me I was more like five by Friday. I was like, This is disgusting. That's like a brisk nice like, I was like seven years. I'm like, okay, like, up like, Hi, I'm sweating. Yeah, that's yeah. 15 minutes when I walk outside and like five minutes. It's like, okay, I'm done. Yeah, so, let's go to the pool. Then you like get out of the pool. It's like, okay, um, that's fine.
Talmage:But yeah, that's not so you saved the money. And where did you get called?
Dallin:I got called to Natal Brazil. Yeah, it's sick. So they just got a temple announced there too, which is really exciting. So yeah, hopefully I can go back
Talmage:so you know, you probably don't need You know when it's gonna get built? Yeah, no idea, honestly. Yeah. You don't really know any of those details. Yes, early on. That is so sick. Okay, so you got called there. And that was in November.
Dallin:Yeah, I left in November. Oh, you left to Nova. I got called in like
Talmage:August, August, August, September. And so you'd love to November
Dallin:of 20 2019. I
Talmage:left right. Yeah. Okay, sick. And did you go to the Provo MTC? No,
Dallin:I'd never been there. I've been I went to the Brazil MTC. So I flew there was there for I was there for six weeks. I was there. I got there the day before Thanksgiving. So I was there for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years, and then went to the field like a week after New Year's. And then I was in the field from like January to March. I got home March 28. I left November twice. So basically exactly like four months. Do you there?
Talmage:That's not? Yeah, March. March 2020. Is when released started. Oh, really? That's crazy. Yeah, I got back. Yeah, seriously. Why did tell me tell me the events of how all of that conspired. So you were in the MTC and then eventually, you got sent home because of COVID. Yeah, like, how did that happen?
Dallin:Um, well, you know, like, you people and people got by home, they had a choice like, oh, you can like stay for like a year and then go back out after like, figure out life or just like wait for reassignment and go. Because I chose not to go back out. And the reason like, there's like several experiences leading up to that they helped me like, make that decision. So like, the first thing that I remember is like the the last week in the MPC, like for our PD, we went to we would go to the temple, obviously. And the time we went to, like went and then like I was remember sitting there waiting in the, before you go on the slush room, I was sitting there waiting my turn to go and I just I just want to get into distinct this distinct thought of like, Would you be okay, going home early, and I was just kind of like, like, that's it. That was actually like a big fear of mine. Because like, I told you like, like, in the back of my mind, like, I knew, like when I grew up, like I didn't want to be I don't want to be a missionary. And I remember that I'm like, okay, like, that's like, my family has, like a history of like, depression, anxiety, like totally cool. Totally fine, normal, normal. I really came home early because of it. And so like, in the bedroom, I'm like that, that's kind of scary, like, come home, that's in the back of my mind. And so I'm like, like, Okay, now like, this is like actually happening. Like, it's like I like, it depends on things, but like, Would you be okay, if you went home early, and I was like, yeah, like, if that's what you need me to do, if that's what
Talmage:your plan is, is like a conversation. Yeah.
Dallin:So yeah, sometimes I feel it's a it's a conversation, especially, it's like, I need to tell you something, you know, it's like, we're gonna we're gonna have like, a little chat right now. So as when I was I was like, we're gonna have a chat. So like, just have this conversation like, okay, like, like, like, if you need me to. Like, that's, that's what I'll do. Like, I trust you.
Talmage:And that must have been hard because your family all growing up, instilled in you that when you say you're gonna do something, you're gonna do it and you're gonna see it through. Yeah. And so going out on a mission, and then having the thought, are you okay? Leaving is like, That's hard. That's hard, because you're like, I said, I was gonna do this. I need to finish it through. Yeah. Yeah.
Dallin:I actually thought about that. Because I'm like, my family is also like, we're, they're also like, realistic is like, hey, like, stuff happens, like, see through to the end. If there's other stuff that come up, like, that's okay. Yeah, things happen. Yeah, life life happens. So it's like, anything like that. So we are we do nice. So I have one of the fields like, was that your kid? That happened kind of thing? Well, am I not? I'm not even sure if it's gonna happen or whatever. So I'm on the field. And I have I have this distinct dream that I like, remember. I get to sell in the dream. I get a call from my state president. He's like, hail the folder like you're coming. You're coming home. Like you're we're you're getting reassigned to Mesa, Arizona. I was like, okay, cool, like, on my way. So I go there. I remember in the dream there being three distinct languages. English because I speak English and Portuguese, because Portuguese from Brazil, and then there's a third language that I couldn't understand. I couldn't completely understand it know what they're saying. But I understood, but I understood what they're saying if that makes any sense. Yeah. And then they could understand what I was saying. And so that happens, and then we get the call, like, Oh, hey, you're, you're going home. You know? COVID like so. All like American missionaries against that home like okay, cool. And so we're alone over the home and I just remember that this feeling of like You're done. Like, like, you're not, you're not gonna back out on mission. I like people like, oh, like, like, what are you gonna think resign? I'm like I don't I don't think I'm gonna back out. I was like I said, like the feeling I had ever like
Talmage:I was scared St. Scary saying that to them
Dallin:kind of like not really actually. Like it was like, okay, like I don't really like there's just like a weird feeling. I'm like, okay, like, that's a weird feeling like, it's the say, Yeah, I feel like I'm done. I'm like, Okay. Like, I don't know what that means. And so like I get home. I leave Monday night from Brazil and I get home Saturday morning in Arizona time. Yeah, like sets and 7am. So I get home. The first thing I remember doing is like, I was just sitting there. I was like, I had just been like working my butt off like the past like three months. I am so bored right now. So I remember the first thing I did after I took a shower was I mowed the lawn and my
Talmage:Wow, my
Dallin:my slides,
Talmage:dude jumping right back into the chore. No, I was like, I didn't waste any time. No,
Dallin:I like sitting there with my mom that day. I'm like a mom, could I like the lawn? She's like, she's like, Yeah, sure those actress mow the front. Exactly. My brother's like, just mow the front yard. And he can do the back. I was like, Cool. So I was a Saturday. And then the next next Wednesday, I was we found out that that was the day I was getting released. And so I remember just like chilling. My son, my family was watching like a movie. And I'm just like, I was like, stay on the side, you know, because of like it just like if you're gonna watch a movie cool, like, just within the regulations, whatever. And so I'm like sitting there and then I have the distinct impression. It's like other filler go read your go read your scriptures for last time as missionary. So I go back, I go back in my room. I like it said like a little desk, go open my scriptures. And I'm like, read and I'm like, wait, that was like, that's like a thought I had kind of thing. And I'm like, saying, say your brain like, like God, like what? What does that mean? Like, just kind of like, I'm done. It's like, Yeah, I'm like, Okay, sounds good. Sounds good. And I was like, Okay, if like, I have like, general conference coming up this weekend as it goes, okay. If I if I get a confirmation? He's like, Yeah, like, that's totally okay. It's big decision, like understand, kind of thing. So I remember I got released that night. I haven't told my parents hadn't told anybody yet. I remember going into that weekend with that, that question my mind and just I can't really wish talk, have it written drill somewhere. But it's like, you're basically confirmation of like, yeah, it's done. You've done your time. And I was like, okay, and they hadn't really hit me yet. You know, I was like, okay, cool. Like, I'm done with my mission, whatever. And so, I remember talking to my parents about it go man, I'm like, yo, like, I gotta talk to you guys. Like about this thing? Like, okay, like, what is it? I'm like, I'm not. I'm deciding not to go back out. And they're like, like, it's not part of the options. Like they give you options. Like, that's not part of it, like Kellyanne kind of thing. I'm like, Yeah, I know. I know.
Talmage:I'm doing you're going off script.
Dallin:Hire me on script anyways. And I remember my mom be like, like, what? Like, you're like, I was I was learning language really, really well. Like I like I remember just being like, super like, oh, like, I'm doing so but my present is like painting is like, Dude, you're you're full. You're doing great. And so I'm like, like, you're even learning a little show. So well, you're doing so yeah, like a lot. Yeah, like six baptisms. And like I know, and like, but I'm not going back out. My dad's like, well, like, I will just tell you wait for a confirmation like I already have already got it. Like, it's, it's a no, you're not gonna back out. And so they're like, Okay, well, you got you gotta tell your bishop take president. You gotta do that. Like, okay, call me Bucha proctor him? Nicole my sick president. He's like, I like your Are you sure? Like, I don't have to send in like a final note. Like you can think about I was like, no, like, send it in, like my mind's made up like that. Like, when I make my mind like, it's there. Like you're not changing like minds made up like, this is what's happening is okay, so he calls my parents I remember like, later on mom's like, hey, like comes up to me, like, hey, like, I know that you have a relationship with God. And that you won't do anything like this without his approval. So just like I just want you to make a call. And then there must
Talmage:have been nice. So it was relieving. You know, have your mom trust you? And be like, yeah, hey, look, I know you wouldn't do this for no reason. Yeah. And to have that weight relieved from you just a little bit to know that. Even if other people don't understand, like my stake president might not or some people in the ward might not. Yeah, my mom does. Yeah, my parents do. Yeah, it's
Dallin:like I was like my mom. Is my back kind of thing because like my my sick President calls like, hey, like just want to talk to you about dialing the moms like no like you don't understand like, says say the man behind this leg down knows what he's doing like he he knows a spirit kind of thing. Yeah. He's like okay, cool and so that's and then that's like a story of like me coming home.
Talmage:Yeah, dude that's not yeah and the crazy thing is is like you probably felt pretty isolated I'm just guessing I'm just shooting so could be wrong
Dallin:yeah so like not not I was dating this girl before admission we broke up and then like, once I decided that was I was like not talking to her till like I knew what I was doing like mancha make decision because of this girl. And so after that, I started talking to her again. And so I was like, I had friends that got reassigned it and left. And so like, especially when they left, I'm like that girl i i broke up with her. We broke up like life was just taking a stand for different ways. Yeah. And so like, I just remember like, feeling like, like, why? I just remember being so angry like that now the reason you cry, but, but I just remember being so so mad. I'm like, okay, and I remember like, one time, specifically, like we're at like a family reunion. And it's happened like several times where I'm just like, I shouldn't even be here. Like something happened. I just I got upset. Like, what up to like, the room I was staying and like, I shouldn't even be here. I should be on a mission right now. Like, I literally shouldn't be home for like, another year and a half. You know, that feeling like it's like weird because like yet, I don't have people telling me like, like, you'll make out now like, oh, like I get it. Like, I wouldn't do that either. If I were in your shoes, your situation be hard to go back out. Like, I want to go back out. Like I didn't tell them that like yeah, okay. Like, like, how am I supposed to explain this person? Like, I want to go back out and I want to serve and stuff. And so like, just like really hard for like a year. I remember getting really angry and not falling away from the church. But like, the house I had kind of held away, you know? Yeah. And so, it Yeah, I felt pretty isolated. Just like, no, and the thing is really isolating is like Satan's really get away. There's, you know, I think the thing that just like really killed is like, not that people were judging me, but I just felt like so much less of a person from like doing that, you know? So I haven't like talked about this in a long time. But like getting and getting in the details, you know? Yeah, it's like usually like service service of like, oh, yeah, like, I love my car, whatever you feel like I think, yeah. So yeah, it was it was hard. And I was angry for like a while. Yeah. That's like, why.
Talmage:So, like, the crazy thing was is you didn't want to go out first. You went out, you went out though. In spite of it, you learn to love it. And then then it was taken from you. And you're like, I changed my whole mind for this. And now it's taken from me and I don't have a real good explanation.
Dallin:I had no explanation. I literally still to this day, I still don't know why. Yeah. Like, why is like no, like, Okay, I got easier to be like, because like, that experience I had is just just trust me, it was really hard to trust. And it's like, there's no clear path. Yeah, you know. So it just took a lot of time to like, figure that out and be like, okay, like, I know, like, I don't know what reason right now. Like, I remember praying for a reason I don't really pretty much like, right, I'm like, I've done the poor. It's like, it's been good. Like it hurt has sought, but I'm like, I learned. And I still trust God. You know? Yeah.
Talmage:That is amazing. And I can only imagine the, the hurt, like you said, you like it's not that people were judging you. It's just that you felt less because it's what you were preparing for. It's what you worked for and there, and it's what every young man is expected to do. And there's a there's a big pressure and commanded to do even. And then you have a you have a specific impression and command from God that says, No, you're not going out. But I'm not going to tell you why. And so you're not going to really have an explanation for people when they ask. And they're going to try to help they're going to try to say, Ah, it's hard anyway, like, I want it. And so it's a burden that has been put on you. And you don't know why that's the hardest part because when people have a burden if they have a why they can handle it. Yes.
Dallin:Seems like feasible for some reason. I remember like my friend, like he was like my student like I think about coming home. He's like, What do you think Mike? Hey, like, if you come home cool, like, I won't judge you like that's totally cool. But I'm like, just realize that like Mission is hard. But life is hard. Like, yeah, missions like everything's paid for you like, you know what, how much money is coming? Let's come in, like, when it's coming like sure there's like a lot of unknowns like I have to find this person but like, it's it's really set up for you it's set up for you to succeed. Yeah, even if like you don't find somebody to baptize, you're still succeeding, you're still growing. And that's success, you know. But I remember telling him like, I remember I've told us a couple of people like, it's like, because I always had it was like, mission is hard. Like, that's all you hear is like, no, like life life is really, really hard to Yeah, it's like, Have fun trying to like, but like, support yourself initially. Because like, like, I've we've talked before, like, people that are people call them like they have to do on their own. They don't have they don't have like, financial support system. Yeah. You know, like, I was like, like, I was like, you have to like, have a family to come back to like there to support me. But like, life is hard in that sense, you know, so that
Talmage:it's yeah, it's incredibly different called my brother he served in South Africa. And a lot of the African missionaries that served in his mission would save their weekly allowance that they got from the mission. He was like, take it as saving cattle as they could and save the cash. And because they wanted to take it home. And technically, they weren't supposed to, but you can totally understand why. Yeah, they would. That kind of like a side story. Really cool story, though. There's this one missionary who had done that his entire mission. And he was in he was really good missionary, really hard worker. And near the end of his mission, he had saved up so much money, and he had it in the in this jar. And I don't know exactly what happened. I can't remember the story. But Mitchell told me he had a change of heart. And he wanted to consecrate everything to the Lord. And so he went up to the senior couples in the mission home and handed this giant jar of money that he had saved over and said, Hey, use this to help the other missionaries that are coming in. It's just like, absolutely amazing. And he's gonna have to return home with nothing. And so oh my gosh, it's just like, amazing story. But it kind of shows the desperation of a lot of these missionaries that come home to nothing. It's just sad.
Dallin:It is sad. Like, even for me, it's like it was like hard because like, I don't know, if you came home, my parents like sat me down. I feel like okay, like, by the way, like, here's some of the expectations that we'd like talk about after you get that hump back home free admission. So we're gonna talk about it knocks you back home. And it's like, you have to pay for this, this, this, this, this, you probably should think about this, this this and I'm like, wow, like, what did I do? Well, it's just like, boom, throw it away. I think that's like, really, really hard to like, what do you it's like, everything is coming at once you're like, I don't even know how to handle this. Like, I didn't have to I don't have to deal with this. And so now it's all on me now. Yeah, like, there's help, but like, it's definitely like, it's all on me. And it's like, for a lot of people, it's hard to ask for help. You know, it's like, okay, like, What the What's going on? Like, what am I doing? Like, how do I do this? Yeah, figure it out. You got this. You got this champ.
Talmage:Man, that's rough. So what did you do? Um,
Dallin:so I didn't work for a little bit. And then my mom was doing swim lessons. She did she she still does it. She teaches it during the summers and she does a really good job. So I helped with her for a bit until
Talmage:he's never lost a kid.
Dallin:Yeah, they'll they'll keep their head flown through. That's great. Yeah, she's awesome. Like, really does a great job. And so I eventually got a job for this pest control company. And I was spraying for them was like a local one in Arizona. Soup like, good job. Like, it was good for like, what I was doing, like what I needed. I was I was going back into school at the community college in Mesa. And so they would work with my school schedules. I would work Monday through Friday and every other Saturday, and I would do school Tuesday and Thursday. And so I did that for like a year and like a month or two. I quit October of 2021.
Unknown:Okay, yeah, yeah.
Dallin:So that's what I did. Hammers. Yeah. Pest Control. That's what has control. Oh, yes. Whatever. Say like, yeah, selling stocks and like, yeah, I spray they're like, how did you do? Like yeah, I didn't Arizona to like what I'm like, yeah, the summers were terrible.
Talmage:Dragging that hose around. Oh, yeah.
Dallin:I had a backpack. Oh, yeah. To back. Yeah, I remember the first week I like I like the first day I got back. I just like lit up my mom's bed and she's like, right because like I was my body was so tired. Yeah, I just Oh, yeah. 100% Dude, crazy. Crazy. It was good though. It was a good job for me like they try. They treated me pretty well. That's good. So it was a good job.
Talmage:And it paid for all the bills that your parents were like, Okay, now you have to pay for it.
Dallin:Yeah, I got a full ride scholarship to the to the community college. So I didn't pay for school for two years. Oh, so I got my Associates. And then yeah, the year at ASU and then I moved here.
Talmage:Dude, that's sick. And then you ended up in 2022. You ended up doing EF y
Dallin:or x y? Yeah. Yeah. They
Talmage:changed it. Yeah. Yeah. How was that?
Dallin:It? It was probably like, one of the happiest moments of my life. Really. I was very, very happy during I worked nine weeks. And so it I was, it was amazing. I worked in where was it? So I was in. My first week I was in Provo, my next three weeks were in College Station, Texas, which is where Texas a&m is theirs. And that was two weeks in San Antonio. Yeah. And then out of California, as a family, have a family vacation there. And then I would did to two more weeks of Provo, and we get salt lake. Dang. Yeah. So I was I was going off summer. I loved it. Like, I was so tired. I got home, but like I was just so happy and like, working with those kids. And I love I love working with the youth, especially like one of their like, like the 16 year olds. I love the 13. And like, especially this because you can just, there's at that point, it's like they're they're just understanding more, and they're realizing how much more like, I bet you connect with them so well though, as well. I'm like, like, I'm a goofball. You're like,
Talmage:you're like a big kid.
Dallin:Like Joe was, like, you're literally 12. And like, Yes, I know. You know, and then like, but like, but also I'm like, I know how to be serious. And I know when the appropriate time is. So just like a really good like, the best of both worlds kind of situation. Yeah. So I yeah, I love this kids.
Talmage:That's so cool. Was there? Was there an experience? Or was there an experience at EF y that you can point to? And you're like, this kind of sums up like my overall experience at UF Why was there that really well, I want to what did you fly for? FS? Why sorry? FS? Why, like, was there was there a kid that like had a cool transformation? Or did you have your own kind of realization or revelation? Or? Yeah, tell me, if you had a cool experience,
Dallin:there's like a couple things that come to mind about like, one thing that I really learned and then just this one story of like, my second week, on Thursdays, like you dress up, you know, just same same as you why just have like, study like document. And for this this year, we studied the story of Joseph Smith. So we had like different excerpts from different passages. We went through all those like, I can't remember, I have to remember that we had them teach each other like what I did, or like we just like talked about together. And I had like, um, teach, teach or talk talk and we're chatting, teaching. I remember is this the sides, like, don't pray right now.
Talmage:And like, that's, like one of those conversations and yeah,
Dallin:like, it's like, it's like, this is gonna happen, you better do it. Like, okay, cool. So like, like, Okay, I'm gonna do it. So I talked to them, like, hey, like, I just want to give you guys time right now, like, if you have to even do things that you should be doing this week, if you put your heart and like I told him at the beginning that week, every single every single group, I'm like, you'll get what out, you'll get what you put into it, say, and I told him, like, everything will live, wherever you put into it, you will get like, if you have been doing those things that we talked about, like doing this, this this ABC, like paying attention in the classes like doing like actually doing a scripture study in the morning when we have the time for, for doing it. Like if you've been doing those things with real intent, like Joe Smith, like you're gonna get an answer. And I remember like, okay, pray, I'm just like, Holy Father, like you better like feel something. I have a rainbow here because I just put my neck on the line for you. Just get by like and so I'm like praying like we're walking around the room. And this one kid this this one kid like he also taught me the next day about something I was like really touching. He's like, I prayed in the eyes equity, like Thank you. Like, I got an answer like awesome. And that those that Thursday night, we have testimony meeting, I remember bawling my testimony because so my kids came up like I came up with like some of those that were like when we had time for reflect and review that night, we just go back and talk about the day and talk about like things you learned kind of thing. Is there that like on those nights I would give the kids like the opportunity that didn't have a shared testament like show Jasmine if they want because it's kind of it's kind of Yeah, like there's 50 like 100 1500 Kids everyone's like, okay, yeah, Jesus, it's scary. It's terrifying. Yeah. I can't remember is like during that but like I remember like several those kids getting up and be like, when you give us that time, I got an answer. There's like three or four kids. And I'm like This is so cool that it was amazing. And that's that kid that first walked out. He just had like, the next day. He's like, comes up to me. He's like, and he I can tell at the beginning the week he did really good friends. But like, as the week went on, he just kind of struggled with like, feeling a part of something, you know, I noticed this and he comes up to me Friday. And he's like, because I'm the kind of guy you walk through the hallways, I literally say hi to everybody. That's how it was in high school. And we're like, walking on our high school. And I was like, like, why do you know, everybody kind of thing? And he's just, like, sits down. He's like, how do you make so many friends? And I'm like, I don't know. Like, it's just something it's always been really easy for me just like making friends. You know? And I'm, like, just kind of talk to him about that. And, because also, like, I'm thinking, like, I was really sarcastic as like, as a counselor, other counselors and so like, a lot of the girls like, You're mean, like, just because, because in my head, I'm like, all my attention, all my focus. 100% of my energy is going to these kids. So I'm like, that's all I have time for. Yeah, it's like, so like, I'm like, Dude, I have like, five people this week. Tell me I was a jerk. I don't know what you're talking about, in my in the back of my head kind of thing. But I'm like, I was just like, this kid, like, yesterday, and it's just, like, hurt my heart, you know? And he's just like, like, how do you make so many friends like, I'm like, that's like one of those things where it's like, just like, I can't do anything for him, you know. It's just like, kind of lose things. Just like I just have to trust Holy Father, that he's gonna take care of this kid they love you know, and I'm against people like, like this. This probably the first time it's actually actually like, deeply thought about that moment. Because like, most people, like, just brush it off. Like, it's fine. Like, you're fine kind of thing. Just like, keep going, like, Okay, I'm pretty good at that. It's a strong suit. Lots of weaknesses, you know? I'm like, nope, like it's doing good. You know? Yeah. Because it was a really good kid. And he really loved God, I could tell that. The other thing like I remember, that's just like, all of last year that like the big theme for me that just kind of we talked a lot about EFS. Why they reinforced a lot to those kids was at the beach. I remember praying before I left and like what is what is the one thing these kids need to hear. And President Nelson talked May of last year about our divided at all to the young adults. And like, there's a video beginning the week at FSI last summer, I don't know if they're gonna do this or not. But they're like, the previous president Nelson's like you, I think President was president is like, what they want yours, then this week is that you are a beloved son or daughter of God. And that's something like I try to reinforce them. It's like, we're talking about like, repentance, or like, all these things. It's like, I understand that, like, you've made mistakes, I understand that. There's these feelings, but you are divine, you have this divine potential in you. And that's something like, I didn't really see myself. So that's one thing I just focused, like, a lot of my time last year studying by it's like, been really helpful. And it's just, like, changed me. But I'm like, I have like, I gotta, like, love myself. And like, tell these kids like believe this. If I'm going to tell these kids like, you are beloved, and you're worth it, you know? Totally. So that was like, really close. We want to tell them that. There's like a single experience like wow, like, I don't really believe that with that. But I'm, like, somebody told, told them often. It's like, your beloved and your cherished. Yeah, I understand. Like, life is hard, but it's okay. Like, you'll be okay. Yeah.
Talmage:Do that. What you just told me about like that, that kid. It reminds me of when I was in eighth grade. I got pulled into the principal's office, and I thought I was in trouble. But she says Talmage Do you know, Ezra? Mike. Yeah, no, Ezra. She says, he comes to me every week and says, Have you found me a friend yet? And when I heard that, it just hurt. There are just lonely people out there. Then they feel like that lost sheep. And, like she asked me if I would help if I could, like, be kind to him and stuff. And and I tried I'd like I'd reach out to him at halls and talk to him in class, but I probably wasn't nearly as good as I needed to be. I was still learning I was a little kid. I was kind of self absorbed. And, but just the idea of seeing him go to the principal to ask her She's found him a friend yet. He's not alone every day in class. He's the nicest kid. Years later, I find him on Facebook and I'm like, Oh my gosh, Ezra. And he is like grown out his hair, not the long hairs bad. But he's like, he's smoking a lot. And he's, he had all of his posts sound very jaded towards the world, towards people in general. And it broke my heart. Because I was like, he was that one lost sheep. And I put in a little bit of effort, but I'd never went out of my way, really never left my 99 friends to go find that one and help. And maybe there were people later on, that showed him the attention he needed and the care that he needed. And maybe they weren't even the best influences. And maybe that's why he got into a lot of self destructive habits, because it wasn't just smoking, and whatnot. It was, is the lifestyle. He was leading. And I don't know where he's at today, but I still often think about him. And I'm like, everybody deserves a friend.
Dallin:Yeah. That's like one thing my grandma talks about, like, some of the basic human needs is like, they need to be heard and to be loved. And they. And they, they need to just feel special with somebody. Yeah. And like, one thing I really love about my job is like, I just have, like, so many quick interactions with people all day. And like, working at phys Yeah, work is so great. It's just like some of the I see some funny things. The drive thru to people. But like, just that stupid thing that I might have said, like, people get a kick out of it sometimes. Yeah. And like as like the people that are just like people that come through a lot and like, are this one guy just like talking to me about how is camera who die, but somebody died? And there's like, somebody's on the way, like, pick them up. I'm like that I'm sorry. That's hard. But just like, not everybody goes to get a soda, because it's the routine. Some people go because they just need someone to help them get through the day. Yeah. And if I can just give them that one little interaction of like, that kid was funny. Yeah. Maybe it'll make him feel better. Or like, that kid was genuine. Like, I always ask, like, how's your day going? And then he's like, I'm like, okay, like, yeah, like, what are you doing today? How's it going? Like, what's going on? And it's really just really cool. That's like, my favorite part about that job. Yeah, surprised. I don't like like, it's not my favorite thing that makes drinks all day. Chick fil A is going to try to poach you, Mike, my co workers, like you were just so nice. Like, why would you not work it desperately, how's your day, you know, there's like, so nice. And just like, it's like, I'm that person that drives through. I'm like, I don't want to talk about my day, like, leave me alone kind of thing. But like, on the opposite side, like, I want to know how they're doing. Because I really do have a deep care. And then like, that's why it's like, just being kind of being kindness free. It doesn't cost anything it doesn't and like, do you get a lot out of it? No, like, at the end of the day, you don't but like, some there's so many that needs it. And there's somebody that deserves it. Everybody deserves to feel loved. Everybody deserves to feel like they are worth something. Because they are they are this like this by like, if they do drugs, like like your friend. Yeah, as well. It's like, despite the lifestyle that they have, even though it might be different for you, they deserve to be loved. And they deserve to feel like they are worth the world because Jesus Christ died for them for a reason. You know? And like, like, I'm not perfect at that. Like, there's some times I'm like, That's okay. Like, guys. We're all that's why I think it's so beautiful. Like how, in the words like other like you call it God's choir, like we know, we need all the voices. That's where it's like, I can't remember three of us why there's one guy he's like time like, we need less picture perfect members of the church, we need more people coming, that have different backgrounds, because they can touch people that like I cannot. But like, that's one thing like talk to my kids and like, like my co like, my co counselor, they she she can do stuff to you that I cannot. She has her own set of gifts, abilities. And that's like, and then like, same thing. Like I have things I bring the people that like, she cannot bring? Yeah, and that's what it's like. I remember this guy, like, he gave a talk in my ward. And he's like, it's so you want to be Idaho. He was like, lawncare like, he's like the classic heavy metal guys. Yeah. Hey, what's up, dude? He's like, he's so funny. He's so nice. He's just like, give a talk or it's like kind of like the same idea. It's like, I people come up to me like, Yo, he's like, You got something for me to smoke. He was like, No, but I got a Book of Mormon. Like oh, I have the gospel of Jesus Christ, like these things that you bring to the table that you think are probably like quirky or weird. Like, you can touch somebody, through your experiences, you can touch somebody, because you have this quirky thing that you have. You know,
Talmage:the uniqueness about you is your superpower. Yeah, I had this. This guy. In one of my words, when I first got back from, from my mission, he's very just like, a straight arrow. This is how it said in the rulebook. So this is how we're gonna do it. Like, if you lift up the, if you're passing the sacrament, and you help the people blessing the sacrament, lift up the cloth. Bad, you're not supposed to do that. We're not supposed to cross duties, like just very straight, like, do like chill. And I was like, chill for so long. But then I started really appreciating the order that he brought to elders quorum. And then one day, it's snowing. It's blizzarding. And he's out in the middle of the courtyard. This is at the Enclave south of BYU campus. It's blizzarding. He's out in the courtyard with his amp and his electric guitar. And he's just going nuts. And like, like it was electric, because there was so he was just a it's just fun. He's quirky, he's different. And he's just like, playing this heavy metal guitar solo. And I'm just like, This guy is so unique. Oh, yeah, he came, he gave me a ministering assignment. And he didn't just text it to me. I think he wrote it down on a piece of paper with amazing cursive handwriting, and then put wax on it and how to seal and seal the letter and gave it to me. Yeah. And I'm like, it's like, this
Dallin:is the cool. I love seals. And you're like, what? Why?
Talmage:I'm like, why, but I'm like, that's so cool.
Dallin:There's so many out there. Appreciate.
Talmage:There's so there that appreciates it. And so actually, quirky is a straight arrow. He does this like ornate handwriting and in letters and then plays electric guitar out in the courtyard. And then like, this guy's dope.
Dallin:This is live
Talmage:life. And some people would think it's weird. Yeah. And who freaking cares? Because he's, like, you notice I noticed? Yeah. And it touched me in a way that if everybody was cookie cutter, I wouldn't never
Dallin:appreciate it. I've never gotten the curse of Henry letter a stamp for you're
Talmage:exactly. And so your weirdness is your superpower, embrace it and love it, because other people will too. Not everybody will. But who cares about the people that don't? Yeah, the people that do that, who your
Dallin:focus is on and they have the right mindset of things that actually matter in life, which is us collectively trying to get back to only father. And like, I just think it's so cool. He like, just uses those weird things about people. Like I'm just like a cute like, I can be really serious once I can't be like, just like, I'm just like making fun of people.
Talmage:I didn't know what to make of you when I first met you.
Dallin:First moved on, like, this is the first time I've lived in my house. I feel like I like gotten closer. Like I remember like we talked to like for the morning that one time like, Yeah, you should be on the podcast. Okay. Let's do it. Oh, like, like, say, I'm like, really? Just like, really? I knew that. I like I thought about that. And I'm like, they probably just like don't really know who I am.
Talmage:I love it. Because like, you were so goofy right off the bat. With Blake. I'm like, oh, yeah, I was doing these accents. And I'm like, Who is this guy?
Dallin:I was like, wildly uncomfortable there until Blake got there. I was like, okay, my buddies here like, yeah, I can start to show my shoes.
Talmage:Like, and I can totally see how you make so many friends. And how you brighten people's day is because like, I don't care if I'm weird. Because at this point, I've embraced it. Yeah, you've embraced it into some people love it.
Dallin:I know. And I love it. And somebody like, like, I'll be careful. Like, you can be like, you're probably gonna offend somebody I'm really talking about she's like said this. I'm like, I probably will. I will. There's something like, I can't just like live my life walking on eggshells because like, I'm good. Like, there's always somebody that's gonna be offended. Absolutely. And it's like, and that like, that's okay. Like, if there's something I did wrong, if I wrong, that person. Like, it was never my intention. Like, I'll go up to him like, Hey, I'm sorry. Yeah, like my bad. You know? Yeah, it was never attention. Like, I've done what I could. But like, there's other people out there. They're just like, appreciate it so much, and they just love it.
Talmage:And if you if you held yourself back, because you were worried about offending people. If everybody had that mindset, there would be no personality. There'd be no real dialogue.
Dallin:What's that movie? Basically, it's like where they get like inject so they don't have them. motions and like they forget the past, you know, talking about oh, the giver? Yes, that will be Yeah, it's just like that where it's like, nothing like I can't even see in color. Like, it's just like this way, this way kind of thing. Where it's like we have to help the community and like, there's like no, like, hope the community like what you bring to the table. Absolutely. Your personality. Yeah.
Talmage:And if, and if you offend people along the way, it's inevitable. Yeah. And then you can, you could just say, sorry.
Dallin:Yeah, I was like, I don't know, for sure. Like, and I like this person irritated me by what they did. But it's like, and that's my like, cover, like we're talking about yesterday, we're talking about come follow me. And like, The Good Samaritan, where it's like, and how, like, the Jews, like, really hated the Samaritans. But it's like, interesting that God uses the term the Good Samaritan, like, it's a good it's a good person. Like if he could just like it's, it was good person. But like, that, like, the what Alex said was like, about, like, they were universally hated. Exactly. Yeah. And it's like, I can't have that, that thing. That mentality is like, they annoy me, like, I'm getting, like, hate them for the rest of my life. You know, but it's like, Who is it? You got to have like, why would you just like, put down on yourself to like, hate them? Yeah. Because like, it's like,
Talmage:like resentment. Yeah, exactly. drinking poison and hoping it kills your enemy.
Dallin:That's like, the other time. Yeah, exactly. It's like that that thing, too. So it's like, I know, I do that. And so and then the other show we're talking about to yesterday, it's like kind of ties into this is like, the story of the the servant that got forgiven. It's like, Oh, my God, like God, Jesus Christ, like Jesus Christ. Like, he's gonna forgive me all the time. Like, we don't have to ask, like, it's just part of who can ask for it and like, feel that for ourselves, but he's like, he loves us. He's like, No, I just want you to come unto me, you know, and it's like, there's people that I'm gonna get irritated that that's like, okay, like, that's not that's not my job to do that. Yeah, that's, that's Donald's job, not not my problem. It's just, I just have to be me. Just worry about me and like, what I'm doing. Exactly. And then like, you're fine. You're gonna make your mistakes. Because that's, that's how life is. But don't be worried about like other people think because, like, you get are the same with other people. And there's really, there's really an author's making take us make sense in my head. But it's like, it's like, you know, that you get your Hitler people like you should forget and like, just like, let it be, because it's not helping you. And a lot of Utah
Talmage:drivers could use that. Let it be, they cut you off.
Dallin:I sometimes like to, like, make myself not so pissed off. It's like, I hope you're doing okay, like your date. Probably really bad. If you have to do that. That's probably worse than mine. So I'm like, I hope you're okay.
Talmage:Yeah, no, seriously. assume they're going through something rough. Yeah, you're probably right.
Dallin:I think that's like a quote for somebody like nine out of 10 times you'd like go right?
Talmage:Yeah, yeah, absolutely. Like, treat everybody as if they're going through something incredibly hard. Nine times out of 10 You're gonna be right. And they're gonna be really grateful.
Dallin:Respect is an amazing thing. Just like having like, respect for people in general. That's a beautiful gift that you can have. Yeah, kinda might. My brother has has a gift. He likes to be read a lot. But he also like, I remember seeing him growing up, he had a gift or just like, not really judging people. Just pre accepting who they were. I've gotten better at that. Just like not really judging people just being accepting of who they are. Yeah, and just seeing past like, what they are and just seeing what who they truly are. Yeah, yeah, that's a beautiful gift. It is sorry for that more honestly, it
Talmage:is a very beautiful gift. Something I need to work on to gives you a lot of friends as well. Yeah. And people are willing to give you the benefit of the doubt when you give them the benefit of the doubt. So very nice.
Dallin:Blessed are the merciful so that for that shall receive mercy. So that the scripture Yeah, I think five or six have
Talmage:something. Yeah. So in this sermon on the mount, yeah, dude over there. Yeah, it's over there. And that is so sick. Yeah, I feel like David, I've loved having you on. Your story is amazing. And how you've handled it. And here's the thing. A ton of missionaries when coming home from the mission, going active, yeah. lose their testimony. And an even bigger number that come home early, lose their testimony. What stopped you from going down that same path that so many have gone? And what kept you with that testimony? Even when you you didn't know why you had to come home and stay home?
Dallin:I think it's just the knowledge that I like. I like not having the gospel in my life and the knowledge like not feeling like I can become better because like I can't overcome my own faults, my own mistakes, my own whatever it is without Jesus Christ and like to fight did have a like I had experience with, like, with my testimony and just like this is this is true, like, you know, this is true. And just having those experiences like even though, like I was mad and I didn't do as much stuff like I still I still knew. And like there are moments where it's like when I was like, What are you doing through life? And I'm like, Yeah, that's like, I know the Gospels through the day. It's like, even though it's hard, it's hard to be a disciple. It's like, I just know that like, I couldn't do it alone. Because I would just feel so much resentment, I would just feel so much anger. And I would, like, I don't even know Irby, I just like to spiral as a person probably.
Talmage:Did I feel you know?
Dallin:So just think that just like that knowledge back my mind that like, I can't do it alone, even though I, I try all the time. And I remember telling my kids so that's why I'm Mike, cuz like you, there's those kids like, they really, there's kids that you can figure out that they understand. And there's other kids that give you the basic, the both of them give you the basic primary answers. Yeah. But the kids just understood. They're like, No, like, I know this, it's because of these experiences that I've had, because I've tried, I've failed, and I've succeeded, and I failed, they succeeded. It's like that push and pull of like, the, like goodness and evil inside of them, because they're trying to learn how to live life with their body. Like, you know, you're you're perfected spiritually, with your body. You know. I remember talking to the home, like, like, like, I know, you guys have heard stories of missionaries coming home. And like, falling inactive. Like, I'm like, so what is reading your scriptures everyday gonna do for you, when it gets to that point? Like, when you're in the trenches of life, or like life just seems like, you just have nothing left to give, like, how do you stay in kind of in that and just like, it's because like, Jesus Christ has done everything for us. And he just fruit like, once you have free for your pet, bought with a price, and the price is his love. That's all he he gave us just so we could have a chance at not living in outer darkness, we could have a chance to live the glory. And he's just asking, so let's try and follow him not to do it, like perfectly, but just to try. And it's like, I can try it. And if my my trying is like 1% of like what I can actually do. Like, I can do that today, you know, or if it's like point 00 Like 0.1 Whatever. Like, I can do that though. Yeah, that's all I can do.
Talmage:That's all you can do sometimes. And that's okay. Because he's going to he's already carried the load. Yeah, it's amazing. There's just one
Dallin:scripture that like these two scriptures I really like and like, there's like probably the last thought but like, where's the thought of you being yoked with Christ? There's a scripture in First Nephi I want to say firstly 515 But like the Scripture basically like your your chain with a devil is the the verbiage I just like that, like when you're not doing your like, when you're just like choosing not like, Satan's like you're chained with him. And like you're you know, he's not doing Jack crap to help you. Yeah, you know, like like the order like what and when New York I think like in the first class sometime around that like Alma one where it's like he just like gets trampled. Yeah. Right away. Yeah, he was he was chatting with God
Talmage:saying he's gonna leave his own. He he has no loyalty. Yeah. Like, it's almost to the world. Like how
Dallin:it's a chain like it just drags you down. But Christ is at the yoke here with him. There's one really cool thought to that. I've heard somebody giving about just like the yoke. But the oxen are all built differently. So you have to build the yoke, according to the size and the build of the oxen. And so like, according like, where are you at? Doesn't like, Forget comparing yourself to other people. Like, my yoke is built differently with Christ than it is for your yoke, right. So that the weight is distributed, distributed, like the best? Yeah, like, the load I can carry might be different than somebody else's. If yours isn't as good as mine, like that's okay. Or if it's somebody else's better than mine. I was like, that's okay. Like you already where you're at and like, that's all you need to do. Just do what you can with what's in front of you.
Talmage:Yeah. And God will magnify that they will, you'll be amazed to see. I've just seen it with this podcast. Honestly, I, I knew nothing about how to do a podcast and what I was doing.
Dallin:I'm really talking to me about that. You're like, how do you do this? You're like, I have no idea.
Talmage:I'm like so in over my head, like, and I was just like, you know, like, I feel like maybe I could try. And I put out the worst quality podcast out there like this started three years ago and it was just like, really The bad there's mess upside never cleaned up the noise floor was high. The my SS were really sharp by I was redundant. And in a lot of the things I said
Unknown:and I'm just like, I'm trying, I'm trying i It's not much, but I put it out there. And I got message after message of people saying thank you so much. You told my story.
Talmage:I thought I was the only one.
Dallin:And
Talmage:I don't know, it makes me want to cry. Because you will magnify your efforts. It's the widow's mite. That little mite is going to do so much more. Because is given is everything she had. There's a given in faith in your little might might not look like much to the world. But God makes God confounds the wise. He makes weak things become strong. Yes, exactly. He makes weak things become strong. He confirmed the wise with small and simple means. And it's amazing. And when you when you trust God and say, Hey, God, here I go, I'm gonna I'm gonna trust you. Like, don't let me fall on my face.
Dallin:It takes a conscious effort to to just be like that. Because like, just be like, okay, like, I'm gonna ask God for help. It's like, that's hard that I don't think it's like talking enough. Like, how hard it is like when you're it's like, I feel better now but by you. Like, why don't want to ask for help, you know? But it's like, it's just makes life so much easier. Like when you just get up, are humble enough to just be like, I need you. Like, I don't like, I know I do. But I just have been ignoring it. And it's like, it's like even like if if you're in those moments where you just don't want to reach out to God. Just Just try even if that's like, just recognize it for what he did. Yeah, like there's a video. It's like the healing power of gratitude. Being grateful has like healing effects. It's good for your soul.
Talmage:Yeah. You did all of that I had a guest on I don't know if you listen to this episode. But Ryan, Elaine, she, she's talking about how she really didn't want to ask God for help. But she's like, I'm just gonna talk and God if you've listened in you can.
Dallin:I think I remember hearing that. Yeah, like a clip or something. And
Talmage:at that point, that's all she could do. Yeah. She couldn't bring herself to actually pray. But she's like, if you want to listen, God, you can but like, I'm just gonna vent and and she ended up having an amazing experience. Like, with God and Revelation and everything. You guys will just have to listen to the episode. But we're not meant to do this life alone. No, this we need God's help, but we need each other's help as well. And I've been working a lot lately, and I'm just really busy. You know this, I'm never at home.
Dallin:This is why he's moving out. Is there like one like one or two nights? Not days, nights nights a week that I mean, I swear like the past two weeks, has he been moved out? He's been at the house more. For just three months. It's crazy.
Talmage:I just life is busy.
Dallin:And it's draining. And, and what we did yesterday,
Talmage:we got some friends together, we played some chill volleyball. And then we we did come follow me with a group of people. And then we just chatted afterwards.
Unknown:I was so rejuvenated, so rejuvenated. It was so fun to be around good wholesome people. And talk have fun talking about the gospel play sports having fun, like, physical activity. That is what life is about is these relationships. And I can't do it without them. And what's the point of doing it? If I can't have a relationship with these amazing PA and so
Dallin:I just don't want to question for you. This is something I've thought about before like try to like I just want to ask you like there are these people it's like cool like, like got like a lot of likes I feel like a big like CMT thing people say is like God answers your prayers a lot of the time through other people. What like and like what for you like what, what do you do when you feel like those people aren't coming? And like you're just kind of wondering you got to figure out on your own you know what what would you say to like that is that makes sense. That question makes sense. Yeah, no, no. Doors like, oh, I don't have the script that I have those like, yeah, what would you what would you tell somebody that doesn't have that but is seeking that really wants that deep down?
Talmage:Yeah. This is really hard to do. Are you Used to be incredibly shy, like painfully shy. Like, like, I ran away from a girl who started talking to me in school, and cried wolf in the bathroom because I didn't know what to say. I was eighth, eighth grade. And I was lonely. Yeah, because I didn't know how to talk to people.
Dallin:Um,
Talmage:but the thing that turned my life around is, there's two things actually my brother, he was very popular, very charismatic, and he pushed me to talk to people. But secondly, was to focus on other people. When you focus on other people, first off, it feels like your problems can disappear. And the moment your loneliness disappears when you're serving other people. Secondly, you develop true, like real love for them. And they notice that they feel that love. And it sparks something in them. Yeah. And so I went to a new school. And I was like, Okay, I'm done being the shy guy. I'm done. I need to be something more. And it's a new school so I can reinvent myself. And so every day, I went up to a different group at lunch, and I said, Hey, I'm new here. Don't really know very many people. Can I sit with you? And when they usually say yes, because most people would, if they don't, they're jerks, and you don't want to be their friend anyway. So your time? Yeah, they're a waste of your time. So yeah, I would sit down, and instead of waiting for them to be like, Oh, so you're new? How are you? Like, where do you come from all this stuff? I would immediately go to them. And I'd be like, yeah, what's your name? What's? I don't know, what's this about you? Oh, you're in soccer. That's sick. Man, I, I played soccer back in the day to all you do FFA. I have horses. And I'd try to find commonalities, I tried to make them feel special. And as soon as I did that, again, my problems went away. I learned to really like these people, I focused on memorizing their names. And I gained friends. It is just such a stark difference from one school to the other, where I felt like I didn't have friends. And I was alone. And the only thing that changed was I wasn't as self absorbed. I was focused on other people and getting to know them. And that's more of a practical tip for people that are feeling like they don't have people in their lives that can provide that companionship, attention and love. I'm telling you, it'll do wonders. In terms of spirituality, there will inevitably be times when you feel absolutely alone. Whereas the people in your life while even if they love you and are very have good intentions. They don't know what you're going through. And you will feel alone. That is it. Okay. That is okay to feel that way.
Dallin:I was gonna say there's been moments where I'm like, I can't feel that sometimes it was like, Oh, come on. It's like it's okay. You know? Yeah, it's okay to be to not be okay. Yeah, yeah.
Talmage:And recognize it and just be like, Oh, I feel very alone. But I know this is so cliche. You're not, even if you feel that Christ himself while on the cross, felt completely abandoned, saying, Father, why hast thou forsaken me? But he wasn't God. I don't know who said it, but was probably up in heaven weeping, understanding exactly what his son is going through and is there with him even though he had to withdraw his spirit you're going to feel that way. But just know it's not going to last forever. Keep the faith the Spirit will come back and confirm to you that Christ in God are there for you always, even when you feel that way. And so that has been my experience with loneliness and how I've been able to combat it at times bolster temporarily as well as spiritually
Dallin:feel like that was like one left like talk to like a lot of people are coming home from their mission is like that's one really common feeling is feeling like they're alone. So like, if you're feeling like that, I just got back home my kids It's okay. You know, like I felt alone. Like, did you feel alone when you got home like
Talmage:I was, I felt so isolated. I was like, no one knows what I'm going through.
Dallin:Exactly. If you if you feel like that right now, I'm really sorry, but you're saying like God loves you. And just be aware, there's like, returned missionaries seem like they're okay. But that you've been there. And like, there's a lot that they're trying to work through a lot to kind of figure it out. And a lot of free time, too. So if I'm gonna do something, yeah, exactly. And just like, have that time just like still talk to them. Even the even the return missionaries that seem like they have it all put together. Okay? Because sometimes, like, if you really just put on a strong face, I wouldn't like that's that's who I am. People never know that. I'm like, not okay, because I'm like, I don't want to act like I'm not okay. Yeah. So just just budget talk. Because like, that's one thing with meet with people just like, come up to me like one on one. Like, like, how are you actually and I know, they care. I know, they have that deep, genuine love, because they show it to me before I'm like, let me just tell you what's going on kind of thing. So just be aware of that. Like pray like, like, find somebody do that too. Yeah.
Talmage:And when you find that friend, you can have a lot of friends like that. But like, yeah,
Dallin:it's so cool. The Brotherhood, lunch, they're so strong. Yeah. Like, as you practice more gets easier to like recognize that too.
Talmage:So it does get easier. And you can see when people are off. And then when you do help them, there's nothing there's not a better feeling. Because to them, You are a hero in their story. Even if you just listened. Even if you just listened. You felt like you didn't contribute anything. You just some lessons failures need
Dallin:to be heard. Yeah, exactly. Just like, feel like they're worth it.
Talmage:Yeah. That's so interesting. It's, it's fascinating to me. Man Dallin I really appreciate you coming on and sharing your experience, your testimony and your insights. It's something that so many missionaries have gone through the feeling of loneliness, confusion, why did this happen? But they don't always talk about and so I really appreciate you coming on.
Dallin:Yeah, I just need to be talked about more like I like I get and I said I still don't know why. Maybe it's because like, I relate to people like that more, but I don't know. And it's okay, you know, like after this all this time, that's kind of the part of like, it's okay.
Talmage:In but yeah, and one, one thing I can see is you are able to touch people in a way that people that served a full time mission whole two years, wouldn't be able to. Yeah, because they're Dallin. Fuller. The guy that lucky Wait, happy go lucky guy. The Jolly dude, that guy that has such a strong testimony of Christ and His own divinity. He served four months. Wow, who's to say I can't be like him. Even though I only served for three 610
Dallin:Or didn't even serve at all
Talmage:or didn't even serve at all though, so you're gonna be able to touch people that
Unknown:so many can't. And so that
Dallin:that's one thing I was praying for. And I was coming over and like I just pray that at least like one person in the stash that just they just need to hear that they're not alone. Yeah. whoever that person is, I got tears coming out for you. So
Talmage:we've all heard this episode. Gosh, dang it. I know. Dylan, Dylan them in Dylan see if you think of earlier
Dallin:was passed to have to be frozen right there. Really, really nice. So if you want to smell bright in your face, just stop by if is Yeah, stop
Talmage:by fizz in a war on Center Street in Orem. And you'll see down at the window a lot. Like talking to you. Yeah. Again, he got me this drawer.
Dallin:Just be like, yeah, it was down there and just talk to me. I'd love to talk to you. Yeah, he'll just be like,
Talmage:Do I know you? You're like No, no, no, not at
Dallin:all, actually. Okay, cool. We had this conversation. So how do you know me? That'd be great. That'd be great. That'd be so sick, man. And you're like, I'm the person who cried for him like Oh, really? This is awesome. Thank you for letting me know. I thought that would be so awesome actually. Not understand that. It's hard. It's gonna happen. It's gonna happen. Man, I appreciate you coming on.
Talmage:Is there any last words? If not, that's totally fine for returned missionaries I don't think so. Everything I've ever said, we talked, we said everything. This is the way. Well, everybody, thanks for tuning in. And I'll see you next week
Unknown:thanks thank you so much for listening to this episode of release the podcast is really fun to have Dalen on I hope you guys learned something, there is actually a really good challenge. In this episode. He talks a lot about people that feel on the outs, people that don't feel as included. And so I guess the challenge to you would be find somebody that is that is around you, whether it's at church, whether it's at school, whether it's at work, maybe he's a roommate, or she's a roommate, somebody that often feels left out, try to try to reach out, invite them to something, just start a conversation with them. Anything really just so you can better understand who they are. Again, thank you for listening to released. If you are interested in being on the podcast, please reach out to me at released the podcast@gmail.com I'll tell you what to do to submit your story. And also reach out if you have anything to share anything you want me to touch on anything you want me to improve upon. I am all ears. If you would please leave a review, subscribe and share it with a friend. And remember God is good and is planning on your success. And even though you've been released from your mission, you've not been released from your ministry.