I Chose to Receive My Endowment at 18

I decided I wanted to receive my endowment at the temple as soon as I turned 18. General conference taught me that temple covenants would bring us closer to the Savior, which was exactly what I was looking for.

I knew that it was a very big responsibility to make a covenant with the Lord, so I wanted to be sure the temple covenants were something I wanted to commit to. I spoke with my bishop, studied, and took the temple preparation course. Once I understood the commitments I was going to make, I felt ready. I was prepared to keep my promise.

I went to the temple in Lisbon, Portugal, which is about three and a half hours away. It was a very good experience. I may not have understood everything since it was my first time, but I felt God’s love, and I understood who I really am: a daughter of God with incredible potential.

We don’t need to wait until we’re perfect to turn to Him. Going to the temple for the first time, for ourselves, is a moment of great growth. It really strengthens our relationship with Christ. So I think anyone who has the desire should pray about it and prepare, and if that’s their desire, then the temple is the best place for them to go.