Saying "Until We Meet Again"

This morning, Mr. made it possible for me to sleep in. It was wonderful.

I got up just a few minutes before President Hinckley's funeral was to begin. The girls and I got our long table out an set it up so we could put together Valentines while we watched. I have been crying this week as I thought about all the wonderful things Pres. Hinckley did for this world. I am so grateful for the reunions he is able to have right now. I am so grateful for the teachings, the visions, the amazing things he did.

I realized that the tears are not so much about sadness, but grieving the end of an era, and feeling so grateful to have been able to listen to President Hinckley.

Many times in my ward I would repeat the words of president Hinckley and someone would get offended. Many times I found my presence being requested in my Bishop's office. I was being chastised for saying the quotes of the prophet. When I showed where my words came from my Bishop backed off. Other ward members did not. Twice a year, I would turn on General Conference and there would be President Hinckley telling me (I always find the words of the speakers to be directed towards a struggle of mine) that I was doing what was right. He validated me and my strong stand for the right stance. It was how I got through the offenses of others. His words gave me strength to do what was right and to continue repeating his quotes and following them.

When Mr. and I had the opportunity to attend General Conference in the Conference Center we saw President Hinckley come out. He waved his cane. He smiled so big. His countenance was full of love for all.

President Monson's tears this morning were validation for me. I cried. I feel sad that he isn't with us anymore in physical body. I listened at Thomas S. (the great storyteller) talked. There is comfort in his words. I think I also cried because my grandparents didn't have the kind of adoring love that President Hinckley and Marjorie had. They missed out. It touches my heart to hear Virginia Pearce state that her dad was adorable. The genuine adoration she has for her dad is so sweet.

I am grateful that he is with his sweetheart. He missed his sweetheart. As I watch my Aunt grieve the passing of her eternal sweetheart from this past June, I have an understanding of some measure what he must have felt with out his beautiful Marjorie. He had friends that he missed. He can now hug them and talk with them.

I still cry. It touches my heart. I find they are actually tears from a heart so full of gratitude for having been touched by his words. I must cry. There is not enough room in my chest for all the gratitude I feel for having been taught by the example and words of this amazing man.

'Til We Meet at Jesus' Feet, President Gordon B. Hinckley. Thank you for your strength and example. I am a better person for following you.