An Eternal Friend

I think we've all made it clear that Jim Cecil was and is a cherished and beloved friend of the Cains. He's been involved in practically every major event in our family, as well as counseled us through difficult times. My memories of Jim have always been pleasant, and I can't help but chuckle when I think of his mischievous smile as he asked me his most popular question, "Are you staying out of trouble?" Now that I ponder this question, I realize that despite its jocular delivery it was quite sincere. He really wanted to know how life was treating me. Every time I talked to him about school, my plans for the future and my relationships, a look of pride crossed his face and he'd give me a big squeeze. It was almost like I was his own child. I guess in a way I looked to Jim, just as I looked to Mom and Dad, for advice and guidance as I made important decisions. His approval was encouraging, because I knew he was a wise and honorable person.

I spent many hours in his office at the agency talking about life and the gospel. I looked forward to going to his office to sign insurance papers, as I always assumed we'd enter into a friendly conversation. This past April, we had the opportunity to talk at Dad's birthday party. He offered comforting words about Natalie's passing and completed a thorough check-in on Sean and I.

My most cherished memory of Jim occurred not too long ago. July 1st, 2005. The day I went to the Palmyra Temple to receive my endowment. Jim was my first choice to officiate at this ceremony. The sacredness of this religious ordinance is such that one does not know much information about it beforehand. Therefore, I was quite nervous. A few days before this occasion, I went to Jim's office, by my request, to discuss what would happen. He tenderly spoke to me about the basic things that would transpire that day. He put my mind at rest and assured me that it would be a glorious experience. I distinctly remember his smiling and happy face as I entered the endowment room. We both knew that this was the right place and that my decision to carry through with this would change my life forever. For the sake of reverence, I cannot go through all the details of that occasion. However, I have a strong faith that Jim will be one of the first to greet me in Eternity. Much like that day in the temple, he'll have a smile on his face and we'll both know that I've come to the right place. In the meantime, I'll have to bare his absence, but I am comforted to know that we will see each other again.