President Monson

I've been thinking a lot about our new prophet. I have always had a special place in my heart for President Monson. Perhaps this is because he was the first Apostle I ever interacted with. While at the MTC I was invited to sing in a small choir for the mission presidents. It was a lot of fun. One day prior to our first of 5 performances, we had just finished practicing and President Monson showed up at the door. We huddled around him. I didn't realize what a large man he was until that moment. Although I didn't shake his had, I was overwhelmed by the spirit as it testified that he truly was an Apostle of Jesus Christ. Each experience I had with an Apostle after that was just as strong. Even though I shook hands and talked with Elders Perry, Maxwell and Holland, my short but powerful encounter with President Monson will be something I never forget.

During the last few years, I have thought a lot about the talks of President Monson. It wasn't until recently that I think I actually started to learn from them. At first I thought that he had changed, but quickly realized that it was me that had changed. Two years ago President Monson spoke at our Regional Stake Conference. I went to the Marriott Center to here him speak. His words never struck me stronger. He taught us as if each and everyone of us was sitting with him at a table. He joked with us; he teased Elder Wirthlin. It was a very uplifting spirit. I immediately felt the same witness that I had while in the MTC. This man is truly an Apostle of the Lord.

Today, other teachers, students and I gathered in the 2nd floor chapel of the English Language Center to watch the special Press Conference. After they announced the new Presidency, I knew in my heart that the Lord had truly called him to be the Prophet. However, a few minutes later as he began to speak and answer questions, i once again felt that sweet spirit that I had felt with him two times before.

I, as many of you, will miss President Hinckley, but I cannot say that I am sad for him or you and I. He fought the good fight with all his might. He is doing work elsewhere now and we still have a Prophet of the Lord.

Well, I've been thinking about this all day and wanted to share it with whoever was listening or reading. President Monson, we love you, we support you, and we sustain you!