Desultory Thoughts

I wasn’t planning on attending the viewing of our recently deceased Prophet, but when I found my day cut short at the Capitol where I was lobbying on behalf of our children while representing the PTA, I decided that if I could easily find a parking spot by the Conference Center that I’d go ahead and pay tribute. Others in attendance no doubt had more determination than I and would have stood in line for hours to have this opportunity, but I’m sure glad that the circumstances presented themselves just right because it was a great experience.

The line started at doors 14 and 15 or thereabouts, which is on the east side of the building. There were ushers every so often so that you were sure to stay on course and that led me through the middle level of the auditorium all the way to the west side of the building and then back out into the halls and all the way back to the east side of the building, almost to where I entered. Then up the escalators and finally up to where the busts of the presidents of the church are on display. That’s where the Prophet laid peacefully, surrounded by flowers and mourning members (and likely non-members, as well). As I paid my respects I recited the words Gordon B Hinckley (which has become our own personal family motto and that we’ve all memorized; even Griffin can say it word for word) and felt a profound love for him and the difference he’s made in my life. Our family motto is:

The time has come for us to stand a little taller. This is a season to be strong. It is a time to move forward without hesitation. It is a time to do what is right, regardless of the consequences that might follow. It is a time to be found keeping the commandments. It is a time to be considerate and good, decent and courteous towards one another in all of our relationships. We have nothing to fear. God is at the helm.

Our Prophet was always one to encourage and in a way that made you feel loved and not scorned. He always commended the Saints for doing their best and then encouraged us to do a little better. As I thought about his legacy (many say it’s a legacy of Temples that he left us that he is best known and will be best remembered) but the reoccurring feelings and thoughts that passed through my mind was that of his pure love that he had for everyone. He was truly a charitable and loving man of God. He will be missed.

I was sad to come across this obituary in the Tooele Transcript Bulletin.

Our miracle, Hunter Greyson Keel, has decided to return to his home in heaven.

He was born in heaven on Jan. 11, 2008. Hunter was born on earth April 14, 2007, and weighed only 2 pounds, 14 ounces. Our precious boy came into this world with a shock of red hair and big beautiful hazel eyes. He was also born with Holoprosencephaly and other challenges that he valiantly struggled through.

Our little guy had a sweet personality with a serious disposition. He had wise eyes and didn’t get impressed all that easily. His feisty temper amused and astounded us as he fought the statistics and gave us almost nine beautiful months with him. He could throw temper tantrums while sleeping (his mom called this cheating) but as long as he got his way he was a very easy going baby. Of all things he loved being cuddled and held the most and we are so thankful to have had so much time to do so.

We all love Hunter so much and will miss him greatly. We want to thank our family, friends and the community for all the support given to us throughout Hunter’s short, meaningful life.

Hunter is survived by his mom, Amber Keel (Brannan); dad, Dennis L. Keel Jr.; his entire family and all the people who loved, cared and prayed for him during his times of trial.

It will be a wonderful reunion for his parents when they see him again in heaven; free of his earthly trials.