[MikeM]

Let’s forget that I ever mentioned the actual act. Let’s just consider the situation of someone who is guilty of something: whether it be kleptomania, idol worshiping, treason, etc. A serious enough issue that it would get one ex’d from the church, but who wants to stay. Should that person be pushed out simply because it’s offensive to the rest if he stays? And he’s trying to keep it a secret? Should he leave the Church? Should he leave without telling anyone why? Between leaving quietly and staying quietly which is better?

[MikeM]

It looks like I’m the only one who doesn’t understand how far off the mark I am. It also looks like I didn’t understand well enough the discussion limits of the forum. I am sorry. If I’m still heading off track, feel free to delete me; I won’t try to return.

I guess that “StayLDS” means something unique to those who have been here for a while. For me it means loving the meaning behind the doctrines and enjoying the fellowship of the Saints, while questioning one or two of the inherited old-testament behavioral limitations.

[MikeM]

Good point. So if your “sin” were exposed, your formal church status wouldn’t change, but would your cultural status change and that of your children?

I’m not really that concerned about the impact that exposure would have on my official status (which would likely be severe). But I’m concerned about what would be whispered about my children and how they may be ostracized. My youngest kids are too young and take things too literal. If I were to change my ways it would be only to protect them and to keep things simple with the neighbors who may not understand.

[MikeM]

Canucknuckle wrote:

Okay, I don’t know if your trollin’ or not, but I’ll make a simple statement:

If you are content in deceiving the members of your ward and you only seek to appear as a TBM, plus you have no issues with your actions, then why are you even on this board? :eh:

Excellent point. I think I’m wondering that myself. Is it possible for me to be a troll but for me to not believe it myself?

Maybe I’m looking for someone more intelligent or more well spoken than myself to expose my thinking to me.

[MikeM]

I like Brian’s comments about eternal exponential expansion. I have to read that book.

As others have said, I chose to believe despite the evidence. But should that choice influence how I live? I would say that it shouldn’t, but how can it not? If I believe that there is a retention of consciousness after death then that belief has to affect what I do now. [Admin note: Private message sent to explain deletion of last part of this comment.]

[Author]

Posts