When I was a very young girl, as early as about 3 years of age, all I ever wanted was to be married and have children. I remember wishing someone would leave a cute bundle on our doorstep. The note left would always read: "This baby is for Debbie." I wanted to make sure there was NO mistake. It would not be a baby left to my mother but a baby left to me.
I also dreamed of the day that the love of my life took me inside the temple doors to be married and sealed for time and all eternity. Well I actually got it a little backwards but eventually everything panned out.
I got married, had children, divorced and then met my soul mate. So in 2004, I finally was married in the Snowflake Arizona Temple. It was beautiful. It was all I had ever imagined and more. It was not until that time that I gained a love and appreciation for the Temple.
Until recently we drove over 5 hours one way to attend the temple assigned to our district. Even the long drive was worth it. The days spent in the temple were rejuvenating and inspiring and I have grown to love my time there.
When I need to feel close to my Heavenly Father, I need only spend some time in the Celestial Room pondering. I need only feel the peace and serenity that fill the temple walls. I need only quietly meditate on who I am and why I am here and life once again makes sense.
In April 2008 a temple was announced in the Gila Valley. It was dedicated on February 14, 2009. It is located in Thatcher, Arizona and only takes me an hour and a half to get there. It is such a blessing. I never imagined the incredible blessings and miracles I would witness as I watched a Temple built in such close proximity to my community.
Now I have the opportunity to go any time. I can attend over and over again. I can find answers to life's deepest questions. I can renew my spirit when it is lagging. I can set example to my children by attending the temple frequently. I can seek the Lord and I can find Him. In this month of Thanksgiving, I am so very thankful for the blessings of the temple in my life.
Gila Valley Arizona Temple
