Letter From Dad

Elder Allan,

You will be on your way home when you read this. 2 years has passed so quickly. At least for me,

perhaps for you as well.

I have been so impressed with how you have served so diligently throughout your time as a full time

missionary. I once asked a friend when in his life did, he feel closet to the savior and without hesitation

he said “My Mission”. I think as we put the needs of others in front of our own personal needs and

desires it draws us closer to him. Example, as we serve others. My friend also talked about how the daily

activities of a missionary from the moment they arise to start the day to the moment their head hits the

pillow their focus is on the work. This helps with the removal of worldly distractions which draw your

attention away from spiritual things. It’s hard for someone like me to understand what that is like, but it

is something I crave to experience at some point in my life. This is why I’m a little jealous of your

experiences as a missionary. I know that you have grown in a way both spiritually and temporally that

will serve you well for the rest of your life. You will be able to draw upon your experiences as a

missionary to help you in future endeavors.

The gospel is a beautiful thing. It is wonderful to see in action. I have seen firsthand how it can change a

person’s life. How it gives a person meaning and purpose. How people will completely change their lives

to live the word of wisdom or come to understand gospel principles that are new and challenging but

watching how it brings them great joy and peace. So many young adults today grow up without a

purpose or any knowledge of God and they sort of wander aimlessly seeking something to give them a

sense of purpose only to find misery and sadness.

You have seen, from those that you have worked with in Germany, these changes. How through

atonement people can be healed and find great peace. I know that these experiences have been

imprinted on your heart and will remind you of how the Savior loves us.

I’m so proud of you. I’m excited to hear about all the experiences that you have not yet shared. I’m

excited to have you teach us things you have learned in the scriptures. I’m excited just to have you

around. Life around the house is a little boring. You always add energy and fun to whatever we are

doing. Yes, you sometimes add a little frustration too, but I will take the good with the bad. Just don’t

make any comments about how the stairs are not finished. I might have to through you down them if

you do.

You have your whole life ahead of you and because we only have one life here on earth, make it count.

It’s been cool to listen to you talk about your potential interests and how your experiences on your

mission has helped you decide on your future path in life. That’s awesome. Whatever you decide to do I

know you will make the right choice for you. I was one who has always hoped that my kids would pick a

career that would provide great financial stability but although this is important, I have come to believe

that fulfillment and happiness in your career is even more important. Choose something that you will

be happy and fulfilled doing. Always prayerfully consider these matters as the Lord will guide you just as

he has on your mission.

I’ve been told and I’m sure your mission president has told you that the transition from being a full-time

missionary to a regular dude can be somewhat difficult. I hope that you can maintain most of those quality habits that you have built while serving. It’s easy to drift away when we don’t anchor ourselves

to the shore, i.e.: your habits of daily scripture study and meaningful prayer. Maybe this is something

you can help us with when you get home. I know that it would help not only your mother and myself but

Makenna as well.

I’m excited to have you home. I’ve really missed you.

Thank you for being a great example to me.

Love,

DAD