Cole's Testimony

At last months testimony meeting, Cole saw a 5 year old, Hunter, from our primary class, get up in front of the whole ward and bear his testimony. It was actually an amazing testimony. Hunter talked about how he knew he made mistakes, but that he was trying to be a good boy. He also talked about how he knew Jesus was the Savior and that Joseph Smith was a prophet. Well, after that Cole whispered to me, "I want to bear my testimony." At that point, time was up, so I told him he could go up next month. Each Sunday he would ask me, "Is it Fast Sunday?" "Can I bear my testimony today?" So, finally it was Dec. 2nd and he was so excited before church. Once we got there, we found a spot on the pews and he started coloring. I could tell he was nervous, because if Lily bumped him, he was easily agitated. Once Bro. Sheridan finished his testimony, Cole asked if he could go up. I said yes, and he started to stand up. His nerves got the better of him and he shook his head and sat back down. He said "I don't know, I feel all warm and sweaty." I told him "You can do it, just say a prayer and you'll know what to say." A few more adults spoke and he started to feel like he wasn't up for it, thinking he would have to give a complicated story. Then 3 kids in a row got up and bore their simple testimonies. That's when he got his confidence back. He stood up and went to the stand all by himself. After waiting through a couple more speakers, he had his chance. Bro. Johnson pulled out the stool and he climbed up on the stand. Looking down with his hand on the microphone he said "I want to bear my testimony. I know the Church is true. (pause) Joseph Smith was a prophet. (pause.......) (looking down) I know Jesus is our Savior. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen." He walked back sheepishly and sat down. After telling him how proud we were of him, he said "I felt so nervous and I didn't tell a joke" How sweet! He was comparing his simple heartfelt thoughts with the more sophisticated testimonies the adults gave. We talked later and told him the faith it took him to get up and speak in front of everyone was the most important part of all. And that the simple, genuine testimonies of children are more powerful than the most eloquent words any adult can say. We're so proud!