When One Eye Closes, Another One Opens

So I'm sure you have all heard, but today President Gordon Bitner Hinckley passed on to another world. When I learned of the news, Josh said there was a quote by Elder Bruce R. McConkie that says, (speaking of passing on) "When one eye closes, another one opens". There have been some very tragic deaths in this last year. Some of my parent's dearest friends, elderly ward members I have known since I was small, neighbors that were far too young to pass (Bryce Brown and Brian Hughes and Kristen Hughes). I can't help but imagine what the welcome will be like for President Hinckley as he returns to his wife's side. I bet he is reuniting with family, former prophets and Church leaders.  I've wondered what it will be like when I, or others that I have known, pass on. I wonder if my Grandmothers are in the throngs of people greeting President Hinckley, or greeting those people that I have loved that they have never met, simply because i cared about them.  I've been privileged to have grown up while President Hinckley has been prophet. I remember him being referred to as the "Temple President". I can't help but wonder if all those people who have benefited from the vicarious work done in the many temples that were built because of the revelation he received. There are a lot of things I will always remember about President Hinckley, but more than anything, I'll remember his optimism and cheerful manner. I hope that I too, can have the optimism (maybe even the cool headed wit) that he had. Farewell President Hinckley, you will be greatly missed, as well as greatly received with your eyes newly opened.  

P.S. I would imagine there will be quite a few teary-eyed congregations this year as the Primary kids sing "We Thank Thee O God For A Prophet" in their Primary Programs at the end of this year. (For those of you who haven't heard, I was released from Primary as Music Leader today in church)