Mon 28 Jan 2008
Yesterday evening, moments before I boarded a flight, my mom called me on my cellphone. “Ryan,” she managed, fighting back emotion, “President Hinckley just passed away.”
Gordon B. Hinckley, the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was 97.
And yet, notwithstanding his advanced age, he constantly showed more than his fair share of energy and vigor. I remember fondly that during one of his whirlwind world tours, he took time out of his overbooked schedule to meet and speak with us beleaguered Swiss missionaries. He was fatigued and we could tell that the travel was not easy for him. Still, he cheered our spirits and buoyed our confidence with his inspiring words and cheerful demeanor.
During a General Conference not too long ago, President Hinckley prophesied of hard times to come. He urged LDS church members to get their houses in order– to get out of debt and to put together a year’s supply of food storage. I hope we are taking his counsel to heart.
President Hinckley balanced humor and dignity, personality and authority, wit and decorum, lightheartedness and class. He was an iconic example of hard work and positive attitude. His passing is a great loss to the world.