Missionaries get to call home two times a year. This is a wonderful time for both the missionary and the missionary’s family. There are things that you can do to help the calling time to go more smoothly. You can also help to make the time positive for both parties.
1) Take time beforehand to make sure that your telephone account will allow international calls. There is nothing more frustrating, then not being able to get through when you are working on a limited time frame. This simple step will save you a lot of heartache.
2) Make sure that everyone in the family gets a chance to speak. If you have a large family you may need to do this with a timer. This will help to stop hard feelings at home. If there is someone especially long winded in the family have them go last.
3) Consider the topics you are going to bring up. It is not beneficial to dwell on the latest family dramas and gossip. This can be draining for both parties. Keep the conversation upbeat and positive. Of course you can share important news, but do so in a kind and gentle manner.
4) Avoid dwelling on too much gossip from the ward or friends. It is important to help your missionary stay focused on his mission. Take the time to listen to what he has to talk about instead. It is amazing to learn all the different ways that he has changed and grown.
5) Follow the mission rules when it comes to the length of the calls and whom he can speak to. It is important to realize that your missionary has a companion that wants to call home as well. Each missionary only has an hour each to talk to his family. They also have other activities and meetings to attend on Christmas. Do not go over the hour time limit.
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