Dave

 

I was 13 years old and had spent the summer up in Portland, Oregon with my Aunt and Uncle and cousins. Their ward was going on a youth temple trip to the Oakland temple. I was invited to go and helped with the fundraising projects to help pay for the trip. The night before doing baptisms we had a testimony meeting outside the temple. It was a beautiful setting with the temple and fountains all lit up and the San Francisco bay down below. I remember listening to the other kids bearing their testimonies and having such a warm, burning feeling in my chest. In fact, I found myself just sitting there sobbing. I was rather embarrassed with it all, but the kind bishop came over to me and put his hand on my shoulder. He told me that I was feeling "the spirit" and that it's okay to cry when you feel that great feeling. I've remembered that experience all my life and have always appreciated an attentive and caring bishop taking the time to explain to me how the spirit testifies to your heart and soul. I'm grateful for the companionship of the Holy Ghost in my life and understand that a lovi
ng Heavenly Father speaks to us in this special way. This is how my testimony began and how it has grown throughout the years.