A Glimpse of Eternity

Over the last week I've thought a lot about death and the significant role it plays in the eternal perspective of our lives. These thoughts were initiated by the passing of our beloved prophet, President Gordon B. Hinckley. Last Sunday I was out visiting teaching and when I got home, Ali told me President Hinckley passed away. I was shocked, as I think everyone was. My initial reaction was sadness, but that feeling quickly passed as joy overcame me. All I could think about was President Hinckley's sweet reunion with his dear wife Marjorie! How could I be sad? He was 97 years old and his life was dedicated to the Lord. He worked so hard and the fruits of his labors will be evident through eternity. I can't even imagine how tired he was! I think of the love he had for Marjorie and I am envious. Their relationship was a model for all marriages and is something I hope to one day have. As I thought of his life and now his passing, I have thought a lot about his life on the other side of the veil. I haven't had any visions or dreams, and I'm not claiming anything special except a clearer understanding of life beyond this earthly existence. I can imagine he embraced Marjorie and rejoiced in their reunion. I imagine he greeted his parents & grandparents and many other family members. What about past prophets and other leaders? All of his friends from his many years of church service were sure to be there to greet him. And ultimately, I'm confident our Savior & Father in Heaven embraced him with the warm welcome of "Well done, thou good and faithful servant." The countless reunions had to be loving and sweet and joyous! And then, I am sure he went back to work. In my institute class, my teacher said, "I imagine his spirit & body were working up till the last minute, and when he finally passed, his spirit kept going at full speed as it always has." I imagine the same thing. His work will continue on the other side and he will continue to bless lives as he did here on earth. I will miss his adorable personality and his vigor & love for the gospel. But I also have a testimony of the order of the kingdom of God and I know the kingdom will continue to move forward! I support President Monson and the new counselors & Quorum of the Twelve. Knowing that I am alive at this time and can participate in the growth of the kingdom is a blessing I am eternally grateful for. I feel a need to rejoice and shout, as many before me have said (especially Travis), "Hurrah! Hurrah! Hurrah for Israel!!!"