Gilbert Temple Cultural Celebration

Hayden loved being apart of the Gilbert Temple cultural celebration. I absolutely loved all he learned, how his testimony was strengthened and that he was able to take place in this historic event. 

I love that he has learned to focus on the temple, keep it in his sights always, and Live True to the promises obtained therein. 

The kids practiced for three months. They learned songs, dances, flag dances, sign language and a deeper understanding of the temple. I loved listening to him practice the songs. 

Hayden was thrilled to see our beloved prophet, Thomas S. Monson and his beloved counselor, Presdient Eyring. He prayed President Monson would be there and miraculously, he was. 

I loved that Hayden was one of over 12,000 youth participating in this event. He was able to see the strength of those on the Savior's team. He was able to bond and build friendships with others who have chosen to Live True to the faith. He sings True to the Faith as he studies, practices, draws and build Legos. I'm only getting a small glimpse of what an impact this is already having on him and hope it will continue to bless his life as he lives true to the faith throughout his life. 

I believe he has a clearer understanding that prayers are answered, not in our ways, but the Savior's. he has learned to face whatever adversity comes his way and knows he can stand strong. He knows that by following the Savior, and with the Savior's help, he can be made strong. 

He has chosen to walk the path of the Savior. Stand tall. Be strong. And Live True!

Hayden's covenant with the Savior. His way to Live True is to follow God's plan for me. And even though he came home drenched, freezing cold, muddy and exhausted, he was filled with the Spirit. His testimony was strengthened. He was happy. He knew that he was firmly standing with the Savior. Ready to do whatever he asked and in the Lord's way. The Spirit was so strong. 

As Hayden warmed up in the shower, got dressed and came to talk to us, he said it was the coldest he had ever been but also he felt more joy and strength than he had ever felt. He said the spirit burned within him. 

Oh Hayden. You experienced the sweet peace and strength and joy that comes from following the Savior. You felt His reassurance and strength and love. You were blessed to have his power with you. 

I testify that the rains will come in to your life. There will be stormy moments that it feels the heavens and gates of hell hath leashed upon you. You will be cold and wet and exhausted. You will feel beaten down as the winds and fiery darts of the adversary try to defeat you. But I promise you this. Just as you stood tonight in the rain. As you felt the Savior strengthen you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. You are His! He loves you. You have the strength inside you to do whatever it is the Savior asks of you. Of this I bear firm testimony. I know he lives. I know he tests and tries his people. But he will never leave you and he will never forget you. You are His. Even more than you are mine. I love you, my son. Stand strong and forever LIVE TRUE!