Contact
Subscribe
Jan 2011 Issue
[photopress:temple_0111.jpg,thumb,pp_style]
Receiving the blessings of the temple has been a goal of mine for as long as I can remember. My parents raised me well. No matter what was going on in my life, I desired to enter the temple one day. There is something special about how only those who are worthy may enter. It is not a public place; it is a place for select people partaking in sacred rituals.
At one point in my life, I was not worthy to be within those sacred walls. I wasn’t sure I could ever be worthy. I had turned away and followed a different path that did not lead to the temple.
Once I saw what was wrong, I feared going back. I knew what steps I had to take, but feared the emotions and commitment I would have to make. It was such a difficult journey of confessions and tears. I learned more about myself during that than I had from any other spiritual experience.
I was ready to return to the straight and narrow path. I started the temple preparation class. It felt so right. I felt so blessed to have even made it that far.
I felt strong, and changed.
The lessons progressed from history to small details of the experience at the temple. The mysterious activities that I had always been curious about seemed within my reach.
Once I realized I would finally be going through the temple, and the date and time were set, I was beyond happy. Nothing else seemed nearly as exciting. I wanted to feel once again like I did when I got baptized. My entire family was thrilled for me and so proud that I had done what I needed to do to become ready to enter the temple.
I have been through two extremes. One of them is the most ashamed I have ever been in my life while completely repenting of my sins. The other is the feeling of pure happiness and worthiness I felt as I took out my endowment. It was absolutely overwhelming.
My choices, both right and wrong, accumulated into the feelings I felt at the temple. Going through the temple was the happiest day of my life, no question. My wedding day was the only thing that was close. I can’t wait for the day my husband and I are sealed together!
I would not trade my temple preparation for anything in the world. All who are taking the steps to being married or just going through the temple for themselves should be absolutely sure of where they stand with their Heavenly Father. There is nothing worse than the feeling of looking back and knowing you were unworthy to receive the Lord’s choicest blessings.
Going through the temple can be the best experience in the world only if you are ready for it. Take your time to become ready for that commitment, and sacrifice whatever is not right in your life to be worthy. It will be a blessing beyond measure to you and a day that will become a cherished memory.
I am so blessed to have a family that was there to love and support me through my process. I also had wonderful church leaders who taught and guided me. I am so thankful for them.
The temple is such a blessed place. I am so grateful that I can now partake of its blessings.
Comments Off 
