Chance of a lifetime

Ky had the unique, once in a lifetime privilege of preforming in the 

Gilbert Arizona Temple Cultural Celebration.

What an amazing opportunity to get to sing and dance for the Prophet and Elder Eyring.  

The kids practiced the songs and dances at mutual for months, 

as well as two full Saturday practices.  7am-10pm.

It was NOT easy.  
(that's Ky in the hat)

The first Saturday was tuff.  It was so dusty and hot.  Several kids had dehydration and some even had to go to the hospital.  Ky came home with a sunburn and was exhausted, but he had a good time.  

Here in this desert we live in, we haven't seen a drop of rain for the last 77 days.  

Well, wouldn't you know it?  The day of the performance the forecast was rain, and lots of it.  

The kids got there early and did a rehearsal.  It was pretty neat, the rest of the valley was getting rain but if you looked up you could see this big circle of rain clouds in a huge ring around the Temple.  We were praying for clear skies and we got them.  For the practice anyway....  

About 30 minutes before the start of the program it rained like it never rained before.  It was a down pour.  Sure it would have been a neat experience if the rain stayed away the whole night, but it bore testimony to me that the Lords hand is in each and every detail.  Its all about his timing.  Had it rained like it did during the rehearsal the city would have closed the park.  It held off just long enough for us to get the program going, and there was no stopping the youth then.  The rain was also such a huge testimony to me of just how strong, steadfast and willing the youth are.  The energy there was just amazing.  They were so excited to see our Prophet.  You could literally feel his Love for the Youth and their love for him as he waved and they cheered.  Such an amazing thing to witness.  The rain really gave the kids the opportunity to prove that they are steadfast and immovable.  Willing and able to do hard things.  

It also taught me He doesn't always take away the storms in our lives.  Rather he heals our broken hearts and truly helps us persevere through the storm.    As I watched the youth sing and dance with out missing a beat or complaining I had this thought, they were shivering and cold, but they just focused on the task at hand.  Getting through the song they were on.  Then once they had that behind them they could move on to the next song.  Life isn't always easy, we some times have rough roads to travel, but all the little things we do help us to stay the course.  We just take it one "song" at a time, give it our all and move on to the next "song" (trial) just like our youth.

 

I have no doubt that our youth will help bring the Gospel to where it needs to be.  There is NOTHING that will stop the Lords work.  Elder Eyring said that the words they would sing will be embedded in their minds.  They will be brought to their memory and use them later on in their lives as they serve missions and it will bring others to Christ as they bear testimony of the truth.

Each of the kids made their own Title of Liberty flags.  It was awesome to see them all holding them.

(that's Ky in the square) 

One of the songs was done in sign language.  I was bawling my eyes out (pretty much did the whole night) but especially on this song.  I had a very peaceful feeling of love for ALL of Gods children and that there is in fact a very special place in the church for these sweet tender perfect little special needs children.  It was a sweet tender mercy that I didn't even realize I needed.

Due to the rain forecast the leaders were inspired to record the show during the rehearsal and have the kids lipsinc. You could tell they didn't get to practice to the recording, but it was good nonetheless.    

Ky came home soaked head to toe, but with the biggest smile ever. He sure is a sweet boy with such a strong testimony and Spirit.  I look up to him so much!

If you would like to see the entire show here is a link.

http://vimeo.com/87972564
I highly recommend it. great sunday activity.  We have watched it a few times and love it.  I am thankful the heavens opened both temperally and spiritually.  It was a night never to be forgotten.