Ah, yes ...

One of my Mormon Times colleagues, McKay Coppins, brought to light a wonderful topic of interest that occurs every six months in Utah -- the mission reunion. It's a time to reflect on the years past since serving a full-time mission for the LDS Church, and returning home with honor. I, too, served in the southern part of England, and met a lot of wonderful people.

As an aside, my younger brother Christopher just received his call to serve in the Belgium Brussels/Netherlands Mission. I wish him well.



After reaching the ripe-ol'-age of 30, my mission reunions are beginning to mellow out. By now, former companions are not only attending with their spouses, but with their children as well -- as in more than three! The sight of kids at mission reunions can be a little intimidating.

If you'll let me indulge for a moment, I'll share with you my recent mission reunion, which occurred last April.

Prior to this reunion, I hadn't been to one for a few years. So, already the thought of facing my mission president (let alone his wife) spouse-less was a little daunting. What would be my excuse? I've tried to get married -- twice!

Regardless of the defenses, I decided it would be in my best interest to reacquaint myself with past friends.

Driving into the church parking lot, I felt 16 again; like I was about to go on my first date -- shaking with nervousness. It was all for naught. The social scene was very inviting, and it was wonderful to visit with everyone. Ten years may had gone by, but we could all relive the mission stories as though they were yesterday.

After an hour of hobnobbing, Elder Montague (former AP) asked everyone to take a seat, and then turned the time to President Parkin.

"All right!" President Parkin exclaimed in his lovingly authoritative voice. "We're now going to take a minute for each elder or sister to give us an update on his or her family." (I think it would be appropriate for me to share my gratitude for an amazing mission president. I admire and respect the Parkins deeply.)

He continued ... "Elder Osmond. You start us off."

"Um ... OK," I timidly replied, and continued with some levity. "My wife apologizes; she couldn't be here this evening ..."

Everyone got a good chuckle out of that, and I proceeded to share a few of my accomplishments for the next minute. Before sitting down, I asked my mission comrades if they wouldn't mind my leaving early, as I needed to pick up a date.

Sister Parkin gave a short remark implying that if I were leaving the reunion early for any other reason, it would have been unacceptable.

I left that night thankful for the opportunity to realize my own accomplishments despite my martial status. It's not a shame to return to a mission reunion single -- even after 10 years.