“Then there were a series of cheap shots that really ought to be beneath McCain. First, he talked about leading a naval squadron out of “patriotism, not profit.”

“Very nice coming from a guy who’s been on the government payroll his whole life, courtesy of those like me who are pursuing profits. I’ll keep that in mind next time I perform my quarterly rendering unto Caesar.”

- Jubal, Red County

My own testimony of the Church has grown while Pres. Hinckley was at the helm. I am saddened at his passing. His charm and wit were always inspiring to me. General Conference will not be the same without his familiar voice. He has spoken at almost every conference for as long as I can remember. This is truly the end of an era.

During my exploration of extra-doctrinal topics, I had several “friends” who tried to convince me that Pres. Hinckley was really a wicked man. They accused him of the most terrible things. I have discovered for myself that they were horribly wrong. I only hope that they at some point realized that they had taken the role of “Accuser of the Brethren,” and that such a position is close to that of Perdition.

It will be interesting to see what happens in the coming weeks as his successor is chosen. The brethren will most likely follow tradition and choose Pres. Thomas S. Monson as the new President of the Church. I have long awaited his ascension to the Presidency. Not because I disliked Pres. Hinckley, but because I feel strongly that Pres. Monson will oversee the Church through some of the most interesting times, and through some of the Church’s most exciting growth.

Pres. Hinckley now joins his beloved wife, and takes his place at the table of the Lord. “We ever pray for thee, our Prophet dear!”

The folks at Young America’s Foundation has provided the video of Ronald Reagan’s speech at the Brandenburg Gate. I would recommend it to everyone, especially today–20 years later.