Elder Borchert's Final Entry

In a couple of days our mission will conclude and it seems only fitting that I make a final contribution to our blog.  It is obvious that our blog has only succeeded because of Dawna's faithfulness in sending regular updates.  Mine have been few and far between; clearly recognition that Dawna has done such an outstanding job.   When I think about a summary of my mission experience I think of categories to describe:

My Companion:  Serving a mission with your eternal companion is indescribable.  I've been given a glimpse into what the next life will be like as we work as companions in building God's kingdom.  A great concern of people that retire is what it will be like to be together.  Having worked out of a home office the past 10+ years I can tell you retirement is nothing like serving a mission.  We have truly been together.  I've become Dawna's walking, shopping , working , cleaning and sounding board buddy.  I know she's looking forward to reconnecting with old friends in Mesa and having those girlfriend times.  I've had the opportunity to watch her excel in a new and wonderful way.  Dawna was concerned about doing proselyting and was thinking an office mission fit her better.  She has become a teaching and testifying marvel.  One of the most fascinating aspects of this mission is that we haven't worked together.  We go to one of the historical sites together but because of the volume of visitors we always give individual tours and do individual teaching.  It has been really enjoyable listening to Dawna as she engages with visitors.    Her genuine love of people has shown through and she handles those who come wanting to pick a fight magnificently.   Our mission has given us the opportunity to truly find out we can be eternal companions not only because we've been sealed by the Holy Spirit of Promise but also because we just plain love each other and enjoy being together.

My Fellow Servants:  Our Mission was a bit unique in that we served in the St. George Temple Visitor Center, the Tabernacle, the Brigham Young Winter Home and the Jacob Hamblin home.  These sites are open 365 days a year and up to 12 hours per day.   We have had 325,000 visitors in the past year.   We have had 10 - 12 Senior couples and 20-24 young Sisters to work at these sites.  What this means is that we've had the great joy of meeting some of the most amazing people you can imagine.  The devotion and commitment they've displayed has been one of the top aspects of this mission.  These Sr. couples have come up to 80 years of age.  Some have had health, financial and children challenges yet have served happily.  We now have dear young friends all over the world.  More than half of the Sister missionaries have been from outside the US.  They are wonderful examples to the world of what a young women should be like.  We had no idea that it would be possible to develop such close friendships so quickly.  It has been a highlight of the mission.

Growth:  When you are 66, have served in Bishoprics and High Councils and get called to a Visitor Center mission you anticipate that you will be giving people the knowledge you've obtained over the years and sharing life's experiences.  I did not expect that I would be on the receiving end of so much learning.  I have gained such a new appreciation for Brigham Young and the Saints.  Learning their history and the devotion that was required of them has been a testimony building experience.  Regular lectures in the Tabernacle by scholars has been like attending a weekly Church Education Week.

Teach and Testify:  Every day has presented me with the opportunity to use Preach My Gospel and teach and testify.   Each of the sites we host has its' own way of leading to questions that allow a teaching experience.  What is the difference between a Temple and a Tabernacle provides the opportunity to talk about the Priesthood, Eternal Marriage and Baptism for the Dead?    A picture of Brigham Young and the Twelve provide the opportunity to talk about Priesthood and the restoration.   Jacob Hamblin's home and his experiences are perfect for talking about Prayer and Revelation.  I have taught substantially more discussions during this Sr. Mission as compared to my Mission at 19.  My testimony has grown as a result of these teaching experiences. 

Testimony:  I left on my mission and return with a stronger and expanded testimony.  Stronger because I've experienced watching God and Christ touch individuals in a very special way and lead them to come visit with us.   It has been borne out to me time and again that the scripture that tells us that a sparrow doesn't fall from a tree without God's knowledge.  He is aware of each of us and wants the best for us.  Those on the other side of the veil are engaged in missionary and family history work.   Expanded because my testimony prior to the mission was limited in the area of the History of the Early Church.  The knowledge I've gained concerning those early years has increased my love of the Church and my love for my Father in Heaven and His Son in a very profound way. 

In short, my Mission exceeded my expectations in every area I can imagine.  When we went into the MTC we were stunned by the number of Sr. Missionaries on their 2nd, 3rd and 4th missions.  Now I understand why this happens.  It's been a great year and one of the best of our marriage.