I am now a Mormon

it happened!

Yesterday Belle and I were baptized in a beautiful serene baptism service. It all happened so quickly: I would have liked it to be a little slower.

Elder Larson talked about baptism itself in his talk, and Elder Schulte talked about baptism with fire. Beautiful words and especially their personal additions were very nice.
Elder Larson referred to how he looked up to our strong testimony because it is stronger than his own (you're kidding, right?). Elder Schulte once again said “I love your family.” Elder Schulte & Larson, this family also loves you.

Sister Inge S. sang very beautifully. And then it was time to be baptized by Kevin. It all happened so quickly. Before I knew exactly what Kevin had said, I was under water. Even without taking in air.

Today it was the laying on of hands and the gift of the Holy Spirit. Brother Geert V. blessed Belle with a very beautiful, extensive personal blessing. Being a mother to her two children, being a wife to her husband. That, in short, is her job and I know she will do it well.

Hands were laid on me by President Van Hees. He wished me strength as patriarch of the family and blessed me to become a good priesthood holder.

Kevin, his father and the Elders had also gathered around us to hold their hands above our heads.

Isabel was completely emotional. She certainly felt a burning glow. I, on the other hand, just got goosebumps and a little tear in my eye. I'm a little concerned that I haven't felt anything spectacular anywhere. It makes me feel bad all day long. Am I not worthy? Am I hesitating too much? Is this a test of my faith…?

Isabel and I also each gave our testimony. Belle was still lost. When confirmed by the municipality, she first forgot to stand up, then she forgot to raise her hand and at first it was only her left hand.

It was also special that an American family was present today, whose son served in Ghent some years ago. Afterwards they came to wish us congratulations, touched that they had been able to experience this. They live in America and after the service I mentioned that we are going to Utah in two years. An invitation followed promptly.

I spent the rest of the day praying to know why my experience was so different from Isabel. The answer I received was soothing: “David, you have the Holy Spirit with you, you should not fear that.”

And that's enough for me right now.