The other day I had the opportunity to attend a wedding for a good friend in the Salt Lake temple. I parked my car across from the northwest corner of Temple Square, and proceeded to walk down the street towards the temple entrance.
A normal sight for anyone who walks by the entrance to the Square is a protestor or two, offering their opinions against the Church. They are usually accompanied by a large sign or cross.
On any other day I pay no attention to these people. Oftentimes I find their arguments humorous. But on this particular occasion, I allowed myself to listen. I didn’t stop walking, but I opened my ears to his voice of anger, disappointment, hatred, and negative attitude towards members of the Church. It created feelings of uneasiness within me. Feelings I haven’t felt for years. I felt like something, a part of me, had left.
And then I walked into the temple…
I could slowly feel the Spirit of God come back to me. By the time the ceremony was over I felt fully restored. I felt myself again.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. The man that was preaching against the faith that I’ve found that brings me closer to my Savior and my Heavenly Father is one of His children. He is loved. This man obviously was concerned for the salvation of those that share my faith that walked around Temple Square that day. I’m appreciative of that motive, however, I cannot ignore my feelings.
“But behold, that which is of God inviteth an enticeth to do good continually; wherefore, every thing which inviteth and enticeth to do good, and to love God, and to serve him, is inspired of God.” -Moroni 7:13 (Book of Mormon)
The holy temples of God offer great peace and healing to those who enter in faith. Sometimes in life we have negative experiences, even as we walk towards the temple. But if we proceed inside in faith, and allow the Spirit of God our Father to fill our souls, all is made right. The feelings I experienced were polar opposites in comparison. Experiences like this, though difficult to endure, strengthen my beliefs and testimony in the Church to which I belong. The temple is a good place. The ordinances performed inside are good. The Book of Mormon teaches its readers to do good.
Why not take the good you have already in your life, and add to it?
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” -Matthew 5:44
The Latter-day Life 
Thanks for sharing awesome post.
I loved your blog.
Bryan, thank you very much. It means a lot.