One year ago today we said a tearful goodbye to our son, brother, grandson, cousin, and friend. It was a day we had all looked forward to his whole life and certainly a huge milestone for Jordan. But it wasn't fun. It was hard! Saying goodbye to him tore our hearts out and left a huge hole in our family and in our home. Yet we were comforted with a peace that has never left. We knew he was doing the very best thing in the whole world by going out to serve our Heavenly Father and the people of Guatemala.
This was his last look back. He seemed a bit nervous and apprehensive, but excited and ready for the challenges and blessings that awaited him.The first few months were long and filled with a few ups and downs for him and for us.
One year later, we are CELEBRATING!!! Jordan has been transformed to Elder Smith.
One year later, we are CELEBRATING!!! Jordan has been transformed to Elder Smith.
He is so very happy! A little thinner and a lot more tan, but so very happy! He is much more confidant in himself as a person and as a son of God. He has become His servant in every sense of the word, yet maintains his crazy zest for life! He is fluent in Spanish and progressing quickly in learning Q'eqchi. He is humbled by the people and their faithfulness despite their having extremely hard living conditions. He has made life long friends with amazing young men who serve with him everyday. He has become more grateful than ever for his blessings of having the gospel, a family that loves him, a good life and nice home, good friends, education opportunities, and a strengthened testimony that has made every hardship and sacrifice worth it!
Today we don't look back to a year ago that was filled with sadness. We celebrate this amazing journey called a mission. Time is going by so quickly now and we love savoring every single bit of it. We are truly blessed as a family and so today we say, "HAPPY HUMP DAY ELDER SMITH! We love you and miss you, but are so proud of you. Keep up the great work! You ARE making a difference in the beautiful land of Guatemala and changing lives for eternity. Thank you for your diligence, faith, and example. See you in one year!!!"
Today we don't look back to a year ago that was filled with sadness. We celebrate this amazing journey called a mission. Time is going by so quickly now and we love savoring every single bit of it. We are truly blessed as a family and so today we say, "HAPPY HUMP DAY ELDER SMITH! We love you and miss you, but are so proud of you. Keep up the great work! You ARE making a difference in the beautiful land of Guatemala and changing lives for eternity. Thank you for your diligence, faith, and example. See you in one year!!!"
Love, Mom
Guatemala City Time
What a wonderful tribute to an impressive Elder. I hope that Kyle will have a chance to serve with Jordan.
ReplyDeleteSister Smith,
ReplyDeleteThank you for posting this. My son, Ryan Anderson, will leave for the MTC on Feb. 23, 2011. I appreciate your comments about how wonderful it is to see your son's growth. I have much anxiety and apprehension letting our son go to Guatemala, however, I know the Lord will protect and care for him. I hope he has a chance to meet Elder Smith.