It is Good to Meet Together

My brethren, for me this day has been a glorious one, it is good again to meet men with whom I have labored, having been greatly blessed and encouraged through such associations. ¶

I rejoice in being with you today and in receiving your kind greetings and words of encouragement. ¶

At this time I am reminded of the day I made my first visit to a stake conference, representing the General Authorities. ¶

This was a Priesthood conference, a uniform Priesthood quorum activity was to be considered. ¶

As I stood before that assembly of men, the hair of their heads having grown gray in the service of our Lord, I was frightened. I pleaded with the Lord to direct me, and He was good to me as He has always been. ¶

As I finished, the stake president moved that those present approve the plan and pledge their support and devotion. The vote was unanimous. ¶

Following the closing prayer, each man present greeted me with a hearty handshake and a blessing. Their kindness I shall never forget. ¶

Since that time I have continued to receive blessings and encouragement through such associations. ¶

Many of my friends were surprised at my attitude at the time the present Presiding Bishopric were sustained. I have looked upon that experience as a choice blessing; my associations and opportunities during the time I served in that office are choice memories which I really cherish. ¶

Before I was called to go to the Canadian mission President Grant told me to take a vacation, I started to paint the outside woodwork of my home. As I was painting the cornice, my wife called me and said, "President Grant desires to talk with you." As I descended the ladder this thought came to me, as though someone had spoken to me : "You are going to Canada." As I entered my home I turned to my wife and said : "Get ready to go to Canada." She answered, "Is that what he said?" I told her I had not called but I had a feeling I was to receive that message. ¶

I called the President's office and President Clark requested me to go to the President's office immediately. ¶

When I entered he invited me to be seated, informing me that President Grant had been called to the temple. When the President returned and took his seat at the table he said, "David, we are going to send you upon a mission." I answered, "When do I leave for Canada?" President Grant brought his hand down on the table with considerable force as he said. "Who's been telling you? Can't our brethren keep their mouths shut?" ¶

I tried to convince him that our brethren had not informed me. ¶

I am happy to have had a mission to Canada ; it has been a blessing I shall always remember and be thankful for. ¶

From my youth it has been my blessing often to be in the presence of men who have directed the affairs of the Church. On one occasion President Taylor placed his hand upon my head and said : "May the Lord bless you my boy, the Lord bless you." ¶

From that day until now it has been my cherished privilege to know and often be in the presence of those who have since presided over the Church. ¶

I thank our Eternal Father for the many blessings I have had and do now enjoy, and I pray that I shall always be worthy of them. This I humbly ask in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. ¶