President Hinckley Remembered...

1910-2008

Last night I was watching some old episodes of "the Office" with a few friends when I got a rather abrupt text: "President Hinckley died." I was not prepared for such news, and it didn't seem real. The first thought that came to my mind was, "Well at least he's with his sweet little wife again." None of us can deny that he missed his sweet Marjorie a great deal.

Throughout the remainder of the evening, I got a slew of texts and calls from various friends and family, sharing the same news (although it was presented in softer language). With each call or text, the reality still didn't sink in.

But this morning it became real. I got online and checked out a few of my friends' blogs, and when I came across Jamie and Joey's, my heart stopped and tears came to my eyes; on their always-current blog they had posted a picture of our beloved prophet, along with a lovely tribute. (Thanks, Joey.)

Here's some history, through my eyes. Gordon B. Hinckley has been the prophet for nearly half of my lifetime. Spencer W. Kimball was prophet when I was born, but passed away when I was only three. Although I've read his words and I love the man, I have no memories of him at all. Ezra Taft Benson is somewhere in the back of my memory; I remember he was a sweet, loving man with a kindly smile. -I was 12 years old the entire time that Howard W. Hunter presided over the Church. I don't recall much about him, either.

Yes, Gordon B. Hinckley is the man I best recall as prophet. The First Presidency and Quorum of the Twelve, as it was when President Hinckley succeeded President Hunter, was intact over 9 years before experiencing the first death of one of its members: Elder Neal A. Maxwell. Since the summer of 2004, a handful of the brethren have passed away. Death is a part of life, and none of these men feared it. It's just difficult for those left behind.

I never met President Hinckley, but I loved the man dearly. I know that he was a prophet of God. He loved the Lord and served Him well throughout his life. President Hinckley was ever the optimist. He had such a sweet spirit about him, and even though we never met, I have the feeling that he loved me too.

And I loved his sense of humor. Although he didn't use a cane until recent years, in my mind's eye, I think I'll always remember President Hinckley waving it around like a sword rather than actually using it like a cane.


Anyway...I fully support and sustain Thomas S. Monson as the new prophet. He'll do an amazing job, I have no doubt. He's got big shoes to fill, but he'll do it beautifully.

Needless to say, General Conference in April won't be the same...just like it was different after Elders Maxwell and Haight, as well as President Faust passed away. But...the Church is still true, and it will continue to move forward.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Hinckley's family at this difficult time. Gordon B. Hinckley will be greatly missed. He was a man of God, and although his earthly ministry is over, I know that his life is not. His positive influence and love are still all around us.

Here's to you, President Hinckley...