"the house of the lord"

I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the temple this weekend. We went as a youth group in our ward. It was so peaceful:)
Sometimes, it's not easy being strong. We want to break down. We want to cry. We want to have someone hold us and just listen. And then tell us everything is alright.
But the temple.. It's different. In trying times, it brings us peace. Even if only just for a little bit. Just walking the grounds, I could feel it. Sure the lights are beautiful, especially since it's the Christmas season. But it's more than that. It's comfort and a little breath of heaven. At least that's how I see it. With an open heart and an open mind, you can find tranquility.
It's even better on the inside. I am grateful to be worthy enough to hold a temple recommend. Going inside just brought me so much peace. I found answers to prayers and confirmations so strong, I could not have gained that anywhere else.
Within the temple, sacred ordinances are performed. One of which is baptism for the dead. We were baptized for about 250 friends who have waited for many many years. I personally was baptized for 15 women, all from the early 1800s. How cool is that?! They've waited nearly 200 years for that day! To finally be united as members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. And then receive the gift of the Holy Ghost in confirmations. It was very heart-warming:)
Sure, life ain't a piece of cake. Worries, stresses, pains, sorrows, confusions, disappointments and so much more surround us in a whirl-wind of sadness. Yet the temple takes care of that. For those few hours I was there, it was replaced with peace.
I am grateful to have a temple close enough to visit often, and I cannot wait for the day that I am married there for time and all eternity. I can't even describe how important that is to me. But it will be so wonderful:) I just know it!
I love the temple!!:)