I just downloaded tons of pictures from my point and shoot. This one stood out to me. I wasn't going to blog about Wyatt's baptism because I was being selfish. It was one of the most spiritual days of my life and I didn't feel like sharing that with the "world".....I mean- the whopping six people that read my blog. =) I'll share a few of the highlights.
It was a wonderful day from start to finish. The morning was spent talking to my sweet boy. Wyatt was asked to speak at his own Baptism. We sat and wrote the talk together. This was a special conversation, and I know that my son chose to get baptized because he believes that this church is true. I told him he didn't have to get baptized, this was his choice. He said that he wanted to, and was excited to do it! He has a strong testimony for a small boy. Sometimes he questions things and I encourage him to do so. There is no better way to find out the truth than to ask questions, pray, and study the scriptures to find the answers.
We went to Sliver Springs to get him his own set of Scriptures, and over to the temple for a quick look.
Then we headed over to the stake center. There were three adorable girls getting baptized on the same day. I got a chance to photograph these four children before the baptism for a little thank you note we tied to some cookies, and some 8x10s on the entry table. It was amazing working with the other Mom's. We all added our talents to create some special touches for the day. There were so many people at the baptism we had to move into the chapel. Over 100 people were in attendance. I was so pleased to look around and see some of my favorite people there with us.
We moved into the smaller room where the baptismal font was located when it was time for the baptisms. Wyatt was last in line. (Ladies first you know.) He was a little nervous jumping bean with a big smile. My eyes filled with tears as I was watched a worthy priesthood holder, who also happens to be my husband, baptize my first born. Natalia was up in the front row, and as Wyatt began to climb out of the font she said loudly, "Wyatt, how was it?"
"GOOD!" he said with a smile and a thumbs up.
Then when they were dry and back in the chapel it was time for Wyatt's talk. He was so nervous. He looked out over the congregation and just stared at them... FOR A LONG TIME. Then a he did a big gulp and began his talk. He did a great job! I was so proud. OH! I forgot one of my favorite parts. Wyatt and the three girls sang the first verse of "I'm trying to be like Jesus." and then ALL their sister's joined in and sang the chorus and the 2nd verse with them. It was so touching. We practiced that song so much as a family! I love the words, they are so simple and so true. Talia was beaming and Wyatt was proud....and I just bawled. I loved it! Wyatt began to cry as he started the song....
"I'm trying to be like Jesus
I'm following in his ways."
I saw his lip quiver.
Then he wiped is eyes in embarrassment and pointed at the lights- blaming them!
He kept going and he sang his best. It was a great moment.
Wyatt was confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint and given the gift of the Holy Ghost. His father also gave him special blessing, and it was so personal and so in tune with the spirit. It brings tears to my eyes even as I think about it now. I know that our Heavenly Father loves my son, and he cares about the little things he worries about and struggles with.
I also know that our Father in Heaven feels this way about everyone. That is mind boggling to me...I love to think about that when I am in a stadium filled with people. I look over the crowd and all their faces and think.... He loves them all, and he cares about their happiness. He wants every single one of them to return to him! Every single one! Even that crazy man with his body painted in the team's colors! There is a way to return to him, our Savior Jesus Christ who paved the way for us.
