Preparing to enter the temple: a feeling of peace
- posted: 13 Mar. 2008
- scrollspecial@byui.edu
The day was finally here. I checked the mail and the white envelope I had watched all my older brothers and sisters get was in the same mailbox. However, this time it was my turn. I ran to the house and called my dad. He rushed home from work to hear me read my mission call. There it was in big bold letters: Canada Edmonton Mission. All I could think about was how cold it would be.
Soon the realities of going on a mission hit me. I needed to prepare not only for the cold in Canada, but also for the day I would enter the temple. I began with the first and only step I was sure of: I called the bishop to set up my appointment to talk to him.
I sat in his office, where he asked me very simple questions. He then asked me to take a temple preparation class. I did so, and the class was helpful because I was able to feel the Spirit and learn more of the Plan of Salvation.
Later I went to see the stake president, who asked me the very same, simple questions. I learned these questions would be asked of me at every temple recommend interview.
I remember the Spirit was in the room and I was so happy. I may not have known what the temple was all about; however, I did have a feeling of peace and excitement.
The feeling I felt when I walked into the temple for the first time was good. Everyone was so nice and friendly, and it felt right to be there.
The unknown frightened me, and I wasn’t sure whom I could invite to go with me. I ended up just having my mom, dad and close family. I have since learned it is best to just have family; however, close friends can be there as well.
It was an amazing experience. I learned of my Heavenly Father, how I can be like Him and what this life is all about. People say different things about the temple; however, if you go prepared and knowing the Church is true, the Spirit testifies to you that what you are doing is right and true — at least that is what he did for me.
I have been endowed for several years now, and I still learn new truths each time I attend the temple. People can’t expect to understand and remember everything the first time or even the 100th time they attend the temple.
Most women will attend the temple within the two weeks before they are married, and there is a lot to think about. The key is returning often and realizing the marriage ceremony and endowment are two different things, and they are both important.
I have now been sealed to my husband in the temple. Preparing for the temple all of those years ago has made it easier to want to go back again and again, knowing that my family is a family forever. 
