In Memory...

As most of you know, the prophet of our church, President Gordan B. Hinckley passed away Sunday evening in his apartment. The news came to us from Amanda and we were in complete shock. After confirming the news on a local television station's Web site, we were still left feeling incredibly sad but happy that he was finally reunited with his wife and other family members.
Since joining the church in 1996, President Hinckley has been the only prophet that I have ever experienced. His voice always warmed my heart and all I needed sometimes was to hear it and know that all would be well. I will never forget the first General Conference I attended. I had been a member for only a year and had flown out to Utah to visit a friend and go to conference. It was in the old Tabernacle. I had received tickets to the Sunday morning session. We sat on the south side of the upper level and I waited with the eagerness of a child on Christmas Eve to see the prophet in person. Suddenly everyone stood up and so did I, then I looked over and saw him walk in and over to his chair. I felt a flood of emotions, burning in my chest and I knew then more than ever that he was the true prophet of God. Since then, my love for him has only deepened. I don't think I will ever sing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again" without crying some major tears thinking of my beloved prophet.
As I still gather my thoughts about President Hinckley, I find it comforting to know that he passed away on a Sabbath Day, a day of rest-- from the busy life of service that he lead over decades-- this great man, leader, friend finally found his ultimate day of rest.
I am forever grateful that we had our Ward Conference yesterday and that I was able to sustain President Hinckley as the prophet, seer and revelator one last time. As the news tried to sink in last night, I am also grateful for the great comfort I received from the Holy Ghost that let me know all is well!
I know that Jesus Christ leads and guides this church and that through him another prophet will soon be called to lead and guide all of us in these last days. We are so blessed to have had President Hinckley. Let us honor his memory by obeying his teachings.