I was in the Salt Lake Airport when Brianna called to let me know that our Prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley had passed a way. Many thoughts went through my mind as to the greatness of this man and his effect on my life. I feel sorrow at his passing but also a sense of peace. Sorrow for our loss of such a great leader but joy for the wonderful reunion he must be having with his beloved wife, father, mother and others.I remember when President Hinckley was sustained as our Prophet. As I stood and sustained him I felt an incredible spirit. It was at that moment that I knew he was a true prophet. The Temples that have begun to "dot the land" during his presidency is another testament of this great leader in doing the will of the Lord. I have personally felt the blessings of the Temple in my life. I will never forget being at the dedication of the Winter Quarters Temple. We waited outside during the morning dedication so that we could see President Hinckley. There was such a sweet spirit as he came outside with Sis. Hinckley to seal the corner stone. Kaylie was small enough that she moved along the crowd until she was just in front of President Hinckley and was able watch him. Later that afternoon we were in the dedication ceremony for our stake. We were watching it in a stake center a few miles from the Temple. When President Hinckley got up to speak he said "Of all the beautiful songs that have been sung today there is one we haven't sang" He indicated the importance of this song to the pioneers at Winter Quarters. He then asked if we could sing "Come, Come Ye Saints" It is hard to describe the feelings and emotions that were felt at that time as we sang that Hymn. I also remember the incredible spirit I felt as President Hinckley announced the rebuilding of the Nauvoo Temple. We were watching the last session of Sunday Conference at the Stake Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. When President Hinckley made this announcement there were tears of joy and we felt the spirit of the Lord as we stood and sang "The Spirit of God".
I also love the scriptures even more because of the challenge that President Hinckley gave to us. I took the challenge and have felt the strength and power of the scriptures in my life. I love and honor this great Prophet, Seer, and Revelator!
