Craigs in Cauayan

Being a Mission President and Companion during the COVID-19 pandemic has allowed us a view of the entire journey of some of our young missionaries.  It has been a joy to witness their entire odyssey from start to finish.  As a former Stake President over a large and faithful Stake of the Church, I have interviewed, called and released hundreds of missionaries.  It is fun to interview mission applicants.  They come nervous, knowing the strict requirements of worthiness and health required to serve a proselyting mission.  They leave proud of themselves when it is determined that they are ready and able to serve.  Proud; yes. Excited; definitely yes, but also a little nervous about stepping into the dark of the unknown.  Where will they serve?  Will they do a good job?  Will they miss home?  Will they like the experience? It is more fun to set them apart.  You see the pride on a father's face and the melancholy and a little worry on a ...

It all started a few months back... I was talking to our son, Matt, and he mentioned how shocked he was at how fast time was passing, and that we had now passed our halfway mark. And then the tears started.  Yes, I was excited to see everyone again, to meet our youngest grandson, Quinn, to see how tall all the grandchildren have grown.  But it also brought to my mind the realization of how much I would miss this. The Place, The People, The Work. It was going by far too quickly. I remember well the first days: the heat, feeling overwhelmed, bugs, new people, the heat, the traffic, the food, the heat...3 years was going to be a very long time. Isabela is so very hot.  And humid.  The adjustment for these Canadians was real.  Slammed with the heat every time you step out the door.  It took a long time for my mind to realize that even though it was gray and rainy, it would still be hot when I went outside.  But something has happened.  I like to think...