It was finally the morning we had been preparing for, yet somehow, none of us felt quite ready to say goodbye.
We woke up at 3:30 a.m. and got ready to send Isaac to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Terminal 1. His flight was scheduled for 7:15 a.m. He would first fly to Narita Airport in Japan, then continue to San Francisco International Airport before taking another flight to Salt Lake City, Utah, where his missionary journey would begin.
Daddy Alvin had purposely travelled all the way back from Penang to KLIA just to send Isaac off. That gesture alone showed how much this moment meant to him. Before the departure, father and son had some private time together. I didn't know exactly what they shared, but I knew it was a special moment between the two of them.
At the airport, we took lots of photographs together. We wanted to capture these last moments as a family before Isaac began this new chapter. There were smiles, silly poses, warm embraces and, of course, the usual brother-and-sister moments between Isaac and Annabelle.
Looking at their photographs together, I was reminded of how much they have shared growing up — the laughter, the little arguments, the adventures and all the ordinary family moments that have become precious memories.
I especially treasure the pictures of Daddy and Isaac, and the family photos we took before he left. We were smiling for the camera, but behind those smiles were hearts that were not quite ready to let go.
As we said our goodbyes, I tried to be strong. But once Annabelle and I got into the car and continued our journey to Mecaje School, our emotions caught up with us. Both of us started crying. It was hard to imagine our family routine without Isaac around. No more seeing him at home every day, sharing meals, chatting or simply having him nearby.
As a mother, I will always remember the little things about having Isaac at home. Sometimes we take those everyday moments for granted until the day comes when we realise how much we will miss them.
But this is also what we have been preparing him for — to grow, become independent, strengthen his testimony and serve the Lord. Although it was difficult to watch him leave, I knew this was his time to go.
I am proud of him for taking this step of faith. There is so much ahead of him: new people to meet, lessons to learn, challenges to overcome and opportunities to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.
That morning, we left the airport with heavy hearts, but also with a quiet sense of gratitude. We may be separated by distance, but our love and prayers will always be with him.
After all the tears and emotions, we finally received the news we had been waiting for — Elder Yu had arrived safely in Salt Lake City! What a relief! Seeing that he had reached his destination and was already meeting another missionary made our hearts feel lighter. It was comforting to know that he was no longer travelling alone and that the next chapter of his mission was beginning.
That moment reminded me that although we cannot be physically beside him, the Lord is watching over him wherever he goes.
Dear Isaac,
Go and serve with all your heart. Remember who you are, remember the values we have taught you, and never forget that you are loved. We will miss you more than words can express, but we are excited to see how the Lord will shape you through this experience.
One last hug, one last family photograph, and a new journey begins.
Until we see you again, Elder Yu. We love you! ❤️
