Yesterday I had the opportunity to be a tour guide for the Atlanta LDS Temple Open House. It was the most amazing experience that I have ever had. We arrived at the temple grounds at 6:30 in the morning to prepare for the day. When we arrived, it was still dark- and the view of the lit temple against the bright stars was absolutely breathtaking! We received our instructions then headed out to our respective spots. As a tour guide, we took groups of 5-40 people from the church building (that is directly behind the temple) to the temple to see the inside. The tour began with a brief video about what temples mean to Latter-day Saints and mentions some of the ordinances performed inside. I had the pleasure of being the tour guide that followed the group- to make sure that no one got lost or left behind. Why was it such a pleasure? Because I got to see people's reactions- I got to see the looks that children gave their parents, I got to see everything! I had SO many experiences that truly built upon my testimony of the truthfulness of the work that goes on in temples. Each room is glorious and of indescribable beauty! I loved getting to go through so many times, because it enabled me to see the rooms over and over again! I must admit, though- at the end of the day, I was utterly exhausted!!! I did all three shifts and helped clean up afterwards......so we ended up leaving at 10:30 pm. But, I wouldn't trade that day for anything in the world!! What made it even more of an amazing experience is that I will be able to be sealed in that very temple in less than 23 days! On the last shift, Aaron's (my wonderfully amazing fiance) post was directly outside the sealing room. So every time we would leave the sealing room I would get to see his handsome face. To be honest, I got emotional several times. I can't wait to marry him!! But, I don't need to get started on him..... this post will never end!!! :) Anyway, I just wanted to share a tidbit of my experience yesterday!
Before I close, I just want to share a little bit of my testimony- I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the restored gospel upon the face of the earth. I know that My Savior suffered and died for me (okay, maybe all of us.....), I know that temples have been set up on the earth to make it possible that we can all return home to be with our Heavenly Father AND be with our families for all eternity. I don't know about you, but I don't think it would be heaven without MY family there..... I think I'd opt out of that one. I know the Book of Mormon was an inspired book written by prophets of ancient America. I'm so extremely grateful to all those who have sacrificed so much just so that I can learn more about my Father in Heaven and His plan for me. I know that Joseph Smith was called of God to restore the gospel to the earth. I leave all of this with you- in my brother's name, even Jesus Christ, Amen.
