This week my missionary son Jesse has been on my mind alot... but then he usually is. One of the perks of being the baby in the family! On Oct. 18 it marked the 2 month countdown until he comes home. For Jesse, there are mixed feelings... he really isn't in a hurry to return because he loves what he is doing. Right now Elder McLean is serving in Edinburgh, Texas. He says that sometimes he has to remind himself that he is still living in the USA because this part of Texas is like living in Mexico. Poverty is everywhere, but so is the wonderful hospitality of the Hispanic people. They really have a joy for life, and are always welcoming to the missionaries... they may not always want to hear about the church, but they are kind to them.
I spent a little time this morning thinking about all the changes that I have noticed in Jesse in the two years that he has been away from home. It's amazing how he has grown. It is even more amazing that 19 yr old young men can step out of their comfort zones, and strip themselves of all the trappings of the world, and then rebuild a new life as a servant to their Father in Heaven, and to all the people they will teach and come into contact with. Jesse will tell you that his "sacrifice" is nothing compared to the blessings, and knowledge, and pure joy he has had the opportunity to experience. If I could pick up the phone today and just talk to him for a moment I would tell him, "Well done Jesse... finish strong, work hard, and Return with Honor." For now I will be content with knowing the Lord watches over him, and knowing he is happier than he has ever been in his life. See you in December son... that will be some reunion!