Goodbye, Elder and Sister Salmon

Elder Doug and Sister Valerie Salmon depart the West Indies Mission on 29 September 2011 for their home and family in British Columbia, Canada after 18-months in a variety of assignments.

“Each time we thought we had life in the mission field ‘sorted out’ we were moved to another assignment. We started in Cayenne, French Guiana (10 days) setting up a new apartment. Then in Fort de France, Martinique (6 weeks) long enough to begin to gain the confidence of members there, before moving to Guadeloupe to ‘learn the ropes’ in the “French office” (6 weeks). From there we were re-assigned to Martinique, the ‘jewel’ of the French West Indies, where we spent 10 ½ wonderful months. Our final move was back to Guadeloupe to work in the ‘office’ once again and to serve the good members of the Basse-terre branch.”

The language barrier has unquestionably been the greatest challenge for the Salmons, but “we won’t miss urgent phone calls from missionaries in the middle of the night. We also won’t miss poorly designed and maintained roads, rude ‘me-first’ drivers and 'les embouteillages' (traffic jams). We will miss those in the West Indies who we now consider our brothers and sisters but we are looking forward to good customer service at our bank, telecommunications company, utility companies, post office and city hall."

The Salmon’s recognize the great blessings they have received and the growth they have experienced while serving the Lord. “Our younger daughter was married. Our elder daughter gave birth to a new daughter. Family members have found joy in the continuing service of their parents and grandparents. We have grown.”

Their advice to any couple coming into the mission. “Retain your health and vigor through a healthful diet and daily exercise. Be prepared to face unexpected changes with a sense of humor and with optimism. Love those you serve. Stay humble . . . and most important, be flexible.”

After their mission, the Salmons have planned a cross-Canada road trip to visit family and friends. The highlight will be a side trip to Boston to bless a new granddaughter – “I can hardly wait to get my hands on her!” notes Sister Salmon.

Doug Salmon adds, “The mission experience has provided another opportunity for us to keep our sacred temple covenants. We are thrilled to have enjoyed the confidence of our leaders in this assignment, and look forward to following the example of the Savior and his servants by continuing to respond to calls to serve in the future. Christ has indeed restored his Gospel in these latter-days! His redeeming love blesses our lives, and we rejoice in opportunities to work in his Vineyard.”