As this week unfolds, I've noticed a definite trend. As people discuss the passing of our dear Prophet, President Gordon B. Hinkly, they do so in an unusual way.

There have been a number of interviews with random people on the street, friends as well as dignitaries in The Church and outside The Church. The common thread is this: they express sadness followed by happiness for him. Never before have I seen so many people discuss the passing of a person of high rank in this manner. "Yes it is sad, but I can only imagine his relief, his joy to be free of that aged body and the reunion he is having on the other side with his sweet wife.", etc. The whole situation seems less final somehow. Sure I've been teary, but happy for him. So many others seem to feel the same.

President Hinkley has been a supreme example and mentor to so many. His life has been long and full of service; thus gratifying not only to him, but those whom he has served. So many have been touched by his candor, and, yet fun manor. He was completely relatable. He was a son, brother, husband, father, friend and leader. His influence has been felt not only at home, but around the world. His was definitely a life well lived.

It is comforting to hear people talk of his passing like he just went to visit somewhere else. Simple. Nice.