Time of Change

It's been a while since I've entered the "blogosphere," as some call it. However, events of the past few hours have prompted me to make an entry. Between four and five hours ago I learned of the passing of President Gordon B. Hinckley, the president and prophet of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This marks the end of a significant era in the church's history. I won't attempt a historical sketch of the prophet's ministry or anything like that, but President Hinckley has been in office for slightly less than half of my life. I am somewhat saddened by his death, but I think I may be more inspired by it.

I work in media production. President Hinckley spent about twenty years as one of the church's leading officials in media and public affairs. His work revolutionized everything from missionary work to temple ordinances. The industry must honor him as one of its greatest. I must honor him as a visionary and an example worthy of emulation.

As a general authority, he was a man without whom the church would not enjoy the degree of respect it has attained among many not of our faith. His voice for friendship and cooperation within and without the church was constant. He took unprecedented steps in delivering the church's message throughout the world and in providing support for members in all parts of the earth. Because of him, I want to do likewise.

I think more than anything, I remember his unfailing faith in the potential of not only the church and its programs, but the individual members, regardless of station. He helped me feel that I could accomplish the Lord's purposes in my life and that I could overcome any obstacle in my path. He helped me believe in myself and in the power and willingness of the Lord to bless me.

I was at my parent's house when I heard the news. I was surprised by it, but not rudely. President Hinckley was 97 years old. Even though his energy made you think that he'd be alive long after you'd given up on mortality, everyone knew it was coming soon. I didn't expect it this soon. As I drove home with my family, I asked them what we could do to remember the prophet who helped shape so much of our lives. Nobody really had a response yet.

The obvious answer for me is to follow his teachings. Over the decades he spent in church leadership, he taught a lot of things, but they can be encapsulated in his oft-repeated saying, "Stand a little taller."

Be a little better, do a little more, live a little stronger. He encouraged us to work diligently at working diligently. He said he wanted to wear himself out in the service of the Lord, and he did. Because his death is motivating rather than discouraging, I know he was a true hero. The way we can best honor his memory is to follow his example. Many things have been leading up to it, but the closing of an era tonight has ushered in a new one for me. It is an era of repentance, renewal, and progress. It is a time of faithfulness and a time of change. I think President Hinckley would approve of the things I plan to do in tribute (in part) to him. More on this later.