Alyssa's Ballet Performance
And the crowd cheered.....
As I watched President Monson today during General Conference, I was reminded of an incredible opportunity I was involved in just two years ago. I was Young Women's President of the Fair Oaks 5th ward, which enabled me to be so involved in the Temple Celebration that President Hinckley asked us to perform before the dedication of the Sacramento Temple. As if having a new Temple only five minutes away was not enough, we as youth leaders and youth of the the Temple district we blessed to celebrate this long awaited event. We began practicing music and dancing for the celebration in May of 2006. When I say "we", I was put in as a "boy" dancing partner so many times, I nearly ran out to dance with the entire group I chaperoned. I knew the dance well and could step in at moments notice at any practice. The music and play was written by local people and was obviously inspired. I was touched by the spirit so many times during the singing practice, I wondered how I would be able to actually perform it someday. Alyssa and Chelsea were both in the dancing and singing. Which was a great experience for all of us. Very few were even able to attend but Paul and Emily were lucky to both get tickets. I will admit, it was a long stressful, exhausting day. But, we were priveledged to have both President Hinckley and President Monson attend the celebration. Prior to the event President Hinckley addressed the Youth of our area. The youth were all gathered on the floor of the Arco Area. We adults were in the balcony seats. As the Prophet entered the room the Youth arose to their feet and cheered as our beloved prophet walked into the room. As her raised he cane they cheered even louder. Tears were streaming down our face and once again they are as I remember the incredible spirit in the room. Then again as President Hinckley addressed us, they rose again and cheered for him. It was so overwhelming. I found out later that President Hinckley was not well that day, and he would never return to our area before his passing. I happened to be down in the basement after his address when they were carting him up to his reserved box seating to watch the "Celebration". I was only but 6 feet away as he rode by in a golf cart and waved at me and a few youth. Once again I was in awe of this man. I am so grateful for this experience, I was released soon after the event and I feel so blessed to be a participant in this once in a lifetime event and to be their with my two daughters. It will always be a sweet memory in my mind and in my heart.
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