"We Thank Thee..."

Tracy called from his rehearsal with Sandy City Orchestra to ask if the text message from his friend's daughter was true. Gordon B. Hinckley had died. I flipped stations on TV and could find nothing. All the while Tracy was waiting on the line. Finally, just before his rehearsal break was over, I turned on KSL radio. Yes, it was true. I think I have been somewhat numb since then. I did call our family and one of my friends. Everyone was surprised, as we had not heard anything to indicate that his death was imminent. Wasn't he supposed to reach his hundredth birthday at least? It has been big news here, with TV and newspaper stories highlighting his life. Almost always, there is mention of his humor. Now the numbness and denial is beginning to wear off. When I see his face or read the articles, I get teary-eyed, not for him or even his family but for me. It is an understatement to say that I will miss him. And sometimes, I find myself feeling a bit angry, as if my bearings have been disrupted without my permission. (I guess it is obvious that I often dislike change.) During my lifetime there have been Prophets all the way from Heber J. Grant to the present time. I can see, in hindsight, the wisdom of each man's call and of his contribution not only to the church but to my life personally. And I do thank God for each one of them. I have a powerful belief in life after death. So, why is it hard to let go?