The Release...

Almost three years ago I was called to serve as the Primary President in our ward. I remember being so surprised by the initial calling. I knew something big was coming, I could feel it, but I had no idea it would be Primary. I guess up until that point in my life, Primary was something that only applied to me when I was at that age. I knew there was a room in the church where all the kids met and sang songs, but I never really paid that much attention to it.

I never would have guessed how much fun being in Primary would be, not to mention how much of a testimony builder it is. There is no place like it. When you are around those children it's impossible not to feel the love of a Father in Heaven. They are so smart and so pure and so willing to learn and trust. They have so much faith. I wish I could stay in Primary forever. The spirit you feel there is amazing. Primary is where it all begins.

In addition to serving and loving these children, I was able to work with incredible women who are so smart and dedicated. I still can't believe how perfect they were for this calling and how much I learned from them. I will miss working with them every week, but hope to enjoy their friendship and example for a long time to come.

The spirit has always prepared me for big callings like this. I feel when it's coming and I feel when it's coming to an end. I've known for several months now that my time was short and I was ready. I was still sad and cried my eyes out yesterday as we shared the news with the children.

I also appreciated being able to work with our Bishop so closely. He is an amazing person who in not just a Bishop but a mentor. He is always teaching and taught me so much. When he broke the news to us that there would be a change he said the kindest words and even gave us all flowers to say thanks.

This experience has been amazing and I have a strong and profound testimony of Primary and it's importance. I also have a strong and even more profound love for those children and I will miss being in their great presence for two hours each Sunday more than words can express. Most of all I know that we are all children of a very loving Father in Heaven who wants nothing but the very best for each of us. If we all understood that simple concept to the extent those children do, we would be happier and more at peace with ourselves and each other than we ever thought possible. And when I forget that simple concept, I will think of these children and the example they set for me.