A beautiful sunset

Tonight, as I was driving west there was a gorgeous sunset! I so love a beautiful sunset! Today, as I watched the programs and funeral services of our beloved prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley, I have been overcome with emotion. Actually, since I got the call from Jessica on Sunday evening, soon after the announcement was made that he had passed on to the next life, I have been so emotional. I have been filled with gratitude, even in my sadness.

Pres. Hinckley taught me so many lessons. He shared with us all the "Be" talk. Simple words, but perfect beatitudes of our time. Be smart, be clean, be true, be humble, be prayerful, and be grateful. I am so grateful for him! Thank you, Mique for a perfect, beautiful reminder of these "BE's" as a Christmas present. I will try to "be" more!

He taught us to love one another. He showed by tremendous example that we are all, every one of us, a child of God, our Heavenly Father who loves us each individually. He taught that we in turn have to love each other, even when we disagree. He embraced the differences in us, and realized that we are all family. I know he loved me. I felt that love every time I heard him say it, or even read his words.

He taught the importance of family. The Proclamation on the Family is a beautiful document that I know is scripture, written by he and the first presidency, for the world to know the Lord's expectations of families. He loved his family, and often spoke on the importance of husbands and wives to love each other and treat each other with respect. His children were loved and nurtured by he and his wife, Marjorie. I just know they were amazing parents!

He taught me that hard work is the a necessary blessing in life. He worked until 2 days before his death, at the age of 97. And he loved his work. I hope I can do more because of his example.

Education was so important to him. The church schools grew under his guidance. He was a lifelong learner.

He understood the importance of temples, building so many all over the world so everyone could have the opportunity to share the blessings that the temple offer to all who attend it. I'm so glad to have the opportunity to attend our temple often.

During his presidency the church grew in huge numbers. Through the efforts of thousands of missionaries and members, the gospel has been shared all over the world. What an honor it was for me to have 2 children serve people in other countries during his presidency, sharing the message that the gospel of Jesus Christ is for every person. Pres. Hinckley loved every person on this earth, and wanted all that the Lord has to offer for each of us. He also understood that we, church members, need to be examples of Christ. He raised the bar for all who wanted to be missionaries, and in turn, for all who are members of Christ's church.

His generosity has touched many lives around the world. Under his guidance, the church has been involved with humanitarian opportunities all over the world. Whether the Perpetual Education Fund, the Welfare program for members, the disaster relief efforts, the aid to 3rd world countries in the way of food and water. The list goes on and on......

His sense of humor was so endearing, so real! I would have loved to know him as a friend. I bet he was fun to be around! As he spoke at conferences, or in interviews his keen sense of humor always crept in, when appropriate. I hope I can look at life with hope, humor, optimism, and enthusiasm as he did.

He bore unwavering witness that Jesus is our Christ, the Redeemer, the Savior of all mankind. I'm sure that He was there to greet our beloved prophet as he passed from this life.

I truly love this man. He has touched my heart in profound ways. Being so imperfect, I know I have much to work on. But because of his great example, I will try harder, love more, give more, complain less, and look forward to the time when I can meet him in Heaven and say "thank you"!

I hope he could see our beautiful sunset tonight. I can't help but think that Heavenly Father was giving me a tender mercy as I say tonight "'Til we meet again! I love you, Pres. Hinckley!"