As you who are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints know, our Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley passed away January 27th at 7pm surrounded by his family. He was ninety seven years old. We loved Gordon B. Hinckley- because he was a good man, a good example, one whom you wanted to be associated with. His spirit was young, and his smile so engaging. He was such a happy Prophet, and was known for holding onto his cane, but rarely walking with it. What a man. We all got the news here at 10pm eastern time from our son Mike, and the girls had just gone up to bed minutes before. I called them down, and told them the news. We all stood and cried, holding onto one another. You see, President Hinckley played a CRUCIAL role in these girls being here. We didn't talk about it that night - or the nights to come - but we have talked about it several times in the past.

When Vinny and I were going to adopt, we got to a point where we felt maybe we were talking ourselves into adopting. So we decided to pull back and wait. The next Sunday was a combined Priesthood/Relief Society meeting - and we found ourselves watching a video about adoption. At the end of the video - President Hinckley came on and admonished all that could to adopt. While the film was largely about babies, President Hinckley said anyone one who had the means and the heart to open up their home should do so. We were so touched, and felt that this was truly a sign from on high that we were to adopt. The girls know that story by heart.

Well, last night we decided to have the girls write their feelings about Gordon B. Hinckley. Here they are, unedited, and you have to know - we did not encourage them in any way to say anything. They spoke from their hearts. Vinny and I were so touched.

Please enjoy and comment.

Aliana -
Gordon B Hinckley is my Prophet. He is the most honest man I have ever seen. Gordon B. Hinckley has been a Prophet for more than ten years. Tonight I am going to tell you why I love him, and would like to thank him for everything that he has done for our religion and our family.

Three years ago, I came to America. My parents were listening to one of his talks. In one part he said "If you can adopt, do it"! My mom and dad thought about it for weeks, maybe months. They came to a conclusion, they were going to adopt. So here I am, because of Gordon B. Hinckley.

I love my Prophet very much. He has taught me so much. I will never forget him. Last week Gordon B. Hinckley died at seven p.m. That was the hardest time. Because when you love someone so much, it is hard to let them go. He has brought so much happiness and joy into my life. I love him dearly. He was reunited with his lovely wife. She was waiting for him. I will always remember him. Twenty years from now, I will teach his words to my children. Gordon B. Hinckley was old, he could be my grandpa. He loves everyone just like Jesus did. I think that Gordon B. Hinckley is perfect. I love him so much. But I know that he is in good hands. We will never forget him.

Nikki -
This subject is about my Prophet, Gordon B. Hinckley. He is a very good Prophet and man. He is also a good obedient child, he is a good father and brother. He is most of all a good Prophet....MY Prophet.
About four days ago, Gordon B. Hinckley passed away. I feel very bad for his family because they lost such a great man. I also feel bad for the world because of a loss of a great, wonderful Prophet. He was a nice Prophet. He died when he was ninety seven years old. He died with his family. 'In conclusion, we should all be grateful for our Prophets, and the things they teach us. My grandmother said "what a great reunion with his wife". I thought that what she said was a beautiful thing. I am very grateful for our new Prophet, President Thomas S. Monson. Right now we are reading one of President Gordon B. Hinckley's books "Way To Be!" It has helped me very much. I love my Prophet.

Cami -

I'm going to tell you about my Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley. He is a great man, I love him so much. He taught us so many things! I believe that he sees vision's.
I really love Gordon B. Hinckley! I want to be just like him. He really chaged my life, because in Russia I did a lot of bad things. He really helped me with the gospel. He is one of not many perfect men. I feel that he brought me here.
I am very sad that he went, but he is happy. I feel very warm when I see his picture. He is kind, nice, always happy. Gordon B. Hinckley rocks!

Well - after we read these outloud - and Cami -You did not do anything bad, sweetheart!! - But at any rate - I read from my journal what I had written about the Prophet and we felt such a sweet spirit. Aliana then had a wonderful Idea. She wanted us to sing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again". So she went and grabbed some hymn books. We cuddled together on the bed, and said a prayer, and asked that President Hinckley would know of our love for him. We then sang the song. It was such a pearl. I really can't believe the girls faith, love and devotion to the gospel of Jesus Christ. They KNEW a Prophet of the Lord when they saw and heard him. Aliana and Nikki both wore dresses to school to show respect for the Prophet when he died.

We love you, President Hinckley! You have touched our lives in so many ways. We will never feel quite the same without you, but we will love President Monson, and go forth. You rest for now - (If you get to.... ha-ha!) and FEEL OUR LOVE. I can only imagine your reunion with your family - the Savior - and Joseph Smith -Moroni- Paul -Moses -Enoch-Adam- Abraham -John the Baptist - Alma - Mosiah -the list could go on and on and on...

God Be With You Till We Meet Again! We love you and will try to be like you and carry on your wonderful legacy.