Final Letter to My Missionary

May 12, 2009

My Son,

This is a sad day for me as I sit and write your final letter to you in the mission field. I have loved writing to you. I have looked forward with great anticipation each e-mail and letter. I have treasured sharing your joys and sorrows and watching you grow into a fine young man. Most of all, I have cherished the opportunity to grow closer to you as mother and son.

Over these past two years, I have witnessed your hard work and devotion to the Lord. The measure of your success lies in how well you have obeyed what the Lord called you to do without complaint. I have observed your heartaches and happiness. These experiences have helped to build a strong foundation for spiritual growth that you can add upon throughout your life. The friendships you have formed with companions, other missionaries, members and converts will last eternally.

As your mission draws to a close you will experience a feeling of finality as you pack your bags. There will be the last interview with your beloved mission president. He has been your father, friend, counselor, teacher, and Lord’s representative throughout your mission. You will experience a great nervousness as you say good-bye to everyone and board the plane home. The time on the plane will be one of great reflection. As you step off the plane you will be reunited with family and friends. As hands are laid upon your head for your release, you will experience the realization that your mission has come to a close. Tears will be shed, but I want to tell you that it is only the beginning. Your mission is just a part of life’s greater mission. It is an eternal mission.

The weeks and months that lie ahead are important in your success. The transition will not be easy, but you already know that as you have witnessed first hand the return of two older brothers.

I have a few suggestions that I would like to share with you that will help your transition back into the world a little easier.

o Plan for each day
o Continue to pray
o Study the gospel daily
o Read your scriptures daily
o Write in your journal
o Look for opportunities to serve
o Keep yourself clean and unspotted from the world
o Attend the temple often
o Spend time with your family
o Continue to follow the same image of a missionary (Please no facial hair) :)
o Do not lower your standards to “fit in”
o Monitor your forms of entertainment
o Follow a daily exercise program
o Do not expect anything but the best from yourself
o Continue to share the gospel

If there was one thing that I would caution you about, it would be to not let yourself relax too much. In other words, DO NOT WASTE TIME. There is so much out there to tempt you; mindless and profane music, television, movies and Internet. Some young men will glut themselves with worldliness upon returning because they have gone without for so long. Always be anxiously engaged in a good cause. ( I know you have heard that from me all your life. Some things never change.)

The lessons you have learned and the habits you have formed over the last two years are priceless. Use your missionary experience as a launching pad to even greater spiritual heights. You can bring your mission home with you. We are all anxious to share in your stories, be strengthened by your testimony, and feel of your spirit. I personally can’t wait to debrief you.

We have missed you so much! We are so grateful for the service you have rendered. Our lives have been greatly blessed. May you continue to progress on your eternal journey.

See you soon!

Love,

MOM