January 31, 2008

A MOUNTAIN TOP EXPERIENCE

Last night was one of the most tender and special evenings of my life. After having a wonderful choir rehersal where there was a lot of memories and songs about, by, and beloved by Pres. Hinckley, we had the amazing opportunity to have a private viewing of the Prophet.


We were escorted to the Conf. Center where apx 400 of us surrounded the casket and got to spend a few quiet moments in our private thoughts. Then Elder Hinckley spoke to us and told us of Pres. Hinckleys love for the choir and expressed the families gratitude for bringing such happiness and joy to their father.

Then we had the blessing of being able to sing. We sang "We Thank The Oh God For A Prophet", "Abide With Me 'Tis Eventide", and "God Be With You". It was a very tender few minutes which reminded me of the wonderful blessing it is in my life to be in the choir. I am blessed beyond words to experience moments like this. I do not know why Heavenly Father granted me this blessing, but I recognize His hand in it, and am thankful for it.




After singing and passing by the casket again, we walked past the flowers and memorials that had been set up. I was very impressed with the simplicity of the arrangements by the family. Large vases of just long stem roses and tulips. Nothing extravagant and traditional in the large family arrangements that usually are present at funerals. But, on each arrangement was notes of love and gratitude for a loving father, grfather, and gr-grfather. I particularly love the Gr-grchildren's arrangement. Again simple vase of flowers.... but attached to it was a large letter that said (I paraphrase):

We will be Grateful.

We will be Smart.

We will be Clean.

We will be True.

We will be Humble.

Because we Love you.

and then it was signed by each of the families and the Gr Grandchildren.


It was very beautiful and touching.


A beautiful evening of blessings and remembrances of an amazing man who touch my life as well as millions of others in a very personal way.