Well I have to say I am shocked to hear that my favorite prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley has passed away tonight. Although he was 97, he always seemed so full of life, and I just hadn't prepared myself for what I knew would happen eventually. Although I never met him personally, I've always felt very close to him. President Hinckley is the first (maybe?) prophet that I was able to be in the same room with. Kelly, and T, maybe you'll remember this, but while we were at BYU together we decided on a whim to go to the Saturday session of Conference. It must have been October of '97, and miraculously we were able to get in. We sat up high in the balcony to the right of the podium, but I remember feeling like we were really close and could see surprisingly well. Although I don't remember exactly what was said or what the main message of the conference was, I do remember feeling the Spirit so strongly, knowing that the beliefs I had grown up with were really true, that President Hinckley is a man of God, and feeling in awe that I was there soaking it all in. Feelings of peace, joy, and inspiration filled my soul and it was truly a highlight of my college days. I know I was able to see him on a few other occasions: devotionals while at Ricks & BYU, the First Presidency Christmas devotional with Ronda, and my graduation. He will be remembered and honored by many for all the service he has done worldwide, but I will always remember him for the way he enjoyed life. He always had a twinkle in his eye, a joke to share, and a way to connect to all of us and just make us love him like you'd love a grandpa. A few more things I loved about him... his stories and knowledge of history, the way he made mistakes but learned from them and shared these lessons with all, the way he prayed especially for the youth, his passion for temple work, and the way he shared the gospel in a way that was unapologetic, but loving. I know the church will go on, another Prophet will be called, and all will be well, but I'm going to miss him. I'm so happy that he is now reunited with his wife, parents, and so many others. Here's a link if you're interested in more details on this amazing man, President Gordon B. Hinckley. http://www.newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/beloved-church-president-gordon-b-hinckley-dies-at-97
2 comments:
Sary,
What a beautiful tribute to our beloved President Hinkley. It made me cry a little and remember all the wisdom and love I have felt from our wonderful Prophet. I was so glad we went to conference and felt his spirit too. I remember him coming in and waving to the crowd with his cane! It seems like I am always quoting him in our sem class, but like you I only remember his warmth, love for the youth and his great admiration for them. Pres. Hinckley knew that we have wonderful young people in the Church and he always was telling them so. He really moved the Church forward in so many ways. I think people are alot more accepting of Mormons because of him. He will always be remembered and loved. Thanks for your wonderful blog! Your pix are so adorable! I can't wait to see those boys again. They are sooooo cute!
I really appreciate your blog entry. I do remember seeing President Hinkley. That was an amazing day and I remember feeling the spirit so strongly.
Post a Comment