Sunday, October 3, 2010

Look Who I Saw at General Conference


Elder Ryan Hinckley!


I have been so anxious for General Conference ever since I learned that the MTC Elders were coming to sing at the Priesthood Session and that Ryan would be part of the Choir.

We had several chances to chat during breaks in their rehearsal. Poor kid is getting over a cold but other than that he is doing really well. He is loving the MTC and can hardly wait until his visa comes through so he can finally be on his way to Brazil. I met his companion, Elder McCann, and Elder Embree who is the same district at the MTC.




The Elders performed beautifully and powerfully. What a wonderful experience for them!



After the session ended I had to return a confiscated item to one of the elders (nothing bad, it was just a cup of candy bars) in the choir loft. By the time the item was returned I realized Ryan had already left and I might miss saying goodbye to him. I hurried as fast as I could past the mass of elders, down the long hallway that would lead back to their buses, and there he was, waiting for me.

I gave Ryan a big hug, told him I loved him and wished him a good mission. Then he turned and was gone. It was all I could do to hold back the tears. I wanted so badly to run away and sob. I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to see him and talk with him but it was so hard to say goodbye...again.

I know he is going to be a wonderful missionary. He has such a strong testimony and has been looking forward to this time of his life since he was small. We'll be praying for him and we'll see him again, in two years.

2 comments:

Jillums said...

Cool!!! I'm kind of jealous, and I know Mom is. I wonder how Ryan felt about it...?

The Willeyes said...

How awesome!!! What a great experience for you both :) Melanie