Gordon B. Hinckley was a great example of optimism. He always had a positive attitude and a friendly smile on his face. Seeing his optimism influenced me to want to be an optimistic person also because I could see that optimism equals happiness.
Gordon B. Hinckley was happy to tell others about the gospel, and share his testimony with them. I still remember when our family gathered on my parents’ bed to watch his interview with Mike Wallace on television. I was so impressed that he had the faith and courage to face the world in such a bold manner. Seeing his courage in sharing his beliefs has taught me that I can also have that same courage in sharing with others my testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Gordon B. Hinckley was a great example of how to be a good spouse. He and his wife, Marjorie, were such a cute, loving couple. You could tell in the way they treated each other with utmost love and respect. President Hinckley was instrumental in the bringing forth of The Family: A Proclamation to the World, which offers great counsel on marriage and family matters. Seeing his example, and studying The Family: A Proclamation to the World has influenced me to be a better spouse, and helped me to better understand how a marriage and family should be.
Gordon B. Hinckley also taught about the importance of temples. During the time he served as prophet, the number of operating temples leaped from 47 to 124. I remember attending youth temple baptisms at the Portland, Oregon temple. Each visit was a special experience. They helped me to gain a testimony of the importance of temple ordinances, temple work, and family history.
I love Gordon B. Hinckley. I am grateful that he was the prophet during such crucial years of my life. I am grateful for all the wonderful things I have learned from him. I am grateful for his good example.
-Bonnie Barrett, Columbia 2nd Ward
