Over the past week I have been touched with the number of tributes that have been quietly sent my way in honor of our sweet prophet.
It's amazing how someone that I didn't know personally could have such a profound affect on me. I felt like I knew him, and that he knew, and cared about me. He was a man that embodied all things right, and good, and true. He has left behind a remarkable legacy.
He was the prophet I have known for as long as I can remember. He was my prophet. I saw and was taught by him on occasion at BYU-Idaho, at the conference center in Salt Lake, and at my college graduation. He signed the mission calls of two of my brothers, and my husband, as well as my Dad's call as bishop. It is difficult for me to imagine life without his sweet encouragement and clever yet humble words. He was an amazing man of sincerity and profound truth.
One occasion in particular that I remember well was when Pres. Hinckley came to the BYU-Idaho campus for the dedication of the new Gordon B. Hinckley building in October of 2002. About half way through his remarks, Pres. Hinckley said:
"Now, I think we have time, and I think I would just like to put away what I have prepared and say a few words further extemporaneously on this occasion to the student body. First, I want to tell you that I love you."
I remember distinctly his emotions so close to the surface, and the silence in the auditorium as he paused, trying to regain his composure.
..."I love you kids, you wonderful young people of this Church. I love you. I believe you are the best generation this Church has ever had. No generation which has gone before measures up to the stature to which you measure up. You are better educated. I think you have greater faith...I am so thankful for you. I thank you for your strength; for your willingness to do the right thing...for the fact that you get on your knees and say your prayers, as I know you do; for the fact that you pray to the Lord to help you, to guide you in the things you do, as I know you do. God bless you for what you are and who you are.
...May heaven smile upon you. May you be blessed. May you be happy. May you have joy in your lives. May your tears be few and your smiles many as you go forward with your lives is my humble prayer..."
I know the words he spoke were true, he loved us deeply. I will never forget that experience and the so many others that strengthened me and changed my life. He was most definitely an extraordinary man, and prophet of God. I will remember him always.
BYU-Idaho Gordon B. Hinckley building dedication Oct. 22, 2002
No comments:
Post a Comment