This is a guest post by Ray, who describes himself as the following:
Ray is a husband of 21 years and a father of six children (including four daughters), so he understands fatigue and emotional trauma. He participates a little bit, here and there, around the Bloggernacle. He agreed to step it up and come out of his shell to share some things with us.
My oldest son received his mission call today, Friday. He will be reporting to the MTC on June 24th for three weeks, after which he will travel to the Washington, Everett Mission for the remainder of his two year service.
This is a very concise, sincere post – focused on a simple question: What advice would you give my son before he enters the MTC?
NOTE: I have only one request. I am looking for any constructive advice, even that which is focused on potential negative aspects of serving a mission. I would love to have him read the comments from this post and gain a better understanding of both serving a mission and preparing to do so. What I am not soliciting is condemnations of the Church – or suggestions to “discover the truth before you make a horrible mistake”. Please respect those minimal restrictions and give him any advice you feel will help him as he serves. I have asked the admins to delete any comments that do not conform to this very simple, heartfelt wish.