Friday, July 11, 2014
Monday, June 23, 2014
Compassion Over Contention
First, I wanted to dedicate this blog to all the Mormons that have suffered with mental and emotional disorders. I also want to dedicate this blog to all my fellow LGBTQ Mormon brothers and sisters. I also want to dedicate to anyone who feels alone. Because you are not alone.
Here are three videos I believe will strengthen your heart, mind, and soul for good. I have drifted away from the church for a time and have regretted it ever since. Please know that God loves you and has so many blessings in store for you. He will keep all His promises if you just hold on. Our dear Prophets and Apostles care for you deeply, and these videos are to help you draw closer to God's sweet doctrine, and most importantly, His Love. These are the videos that saved my life. Let them save yours. Or at least brighten and enlighten your day. :)
As many of you know, the Church has been in the limelight recently due to the decision making of the ex-communication of John Dehlin and Kate Kelly. I know there is a lot of controversy because of this subject so I will try to keep it as peaceful as possible. But I feel impressed to say what is in my heart...
Love. Love is always the answer. It doesn't matter what you read on New York Times. Or what other Mormons say. Or really what you think. Love is always the answer. Jesus Christ is love. And Jesus is the light, the truth, and the way. So let us exemplify Him through this trial, and give love to John and Kate. They are sons and daughters of God, just as you and I, who have opinions...just like you and me. We are not the judge. God is. Does that mean we cannot sustain our Prophet and apostles? No. Does this mean we cannot have our own opinions? No. Does this mean that we cannot disagree with John and Kate? No.
As for me, I empathize and somewhat agree with somethings John and Kate have said. But that is simply my opinion. What saddens me, and I am pretty sure saddens our Heavenly Father, is when we try to assume John and Kate's testimony. When we assume their heavenly outcome. That is what is so saddening. Remember; What you say about others, determines more about YOU then the person you are talking about. Always speak love, never hate.
Now I know because of this limelight, some members of the church are getting scrutinized. More meetings are being held to have an open conversation about these subjects. So I have message for all those who will be minorities in this situation;
I just want to remind all my LGBTQ brothers and sisters and my sisters who are apart of Ordain Women to remember this; You are not alone. God loves you. My prayers are for you, not against you. You have people out there who believe in you. You have Savior who loves you more than you will ever know. Do not feel as though you are isolated. Because even if there will be hurtful things said to you, pay no mind. Because the only opinion that matters is God's. Go to Him for wisdom, strength, and answers. Rely on Him and Christ's atonement to give you peace. And don't leave. Stay. Hold on just a little bit longer. You are loved. You belong.
Now I am not saying who is right and who is wrong. Honestly, I feel that God is the only who can determine that. What I am saying is no matter what, we have to love each other. Cut out the contention. It will only leave us in misery. I would know. I used to always feel the need to be malicious and proud while arguing. I've realized that THAT is the adversary taking his place in our hearts. The Spirit leaves when there is contention. It doesn't matter if you are defending the Prophet or your local leaders or if you're on the other side of the spectrum and you are defending human rights and equality...if there is contention...the Spirit will leave on both sides. And who wants that?
So put forth love and empathy and compassion before anything else. Because that is true courage.
Thursday, May 1, 2014
The Perks of Being a Mother (From a Daughter's Point of View)
I've often contemplated the essence of motherhood. I always looked at it as quite conventional role. I am, as anyone knows, a feminist. But though I am a proud feminist advocate, I've also recently noticed the tender mercies that come with preparing to be a mother.
As I said in my previous blog post, one of my priorities in life is to get married in the temple, ( for those of my friends/blog-readers who aren't Mormon but are interested in learning more about temples go to this site https://www.lds.org/church/temples/why-we-build-temples?lang=eng for more information)..., and have my own family. That obviously includes children. I've also pondered on what sort of career I should pursue. Though I love singing, blogging and giving out humanitarian aid, I have to also take in consideration that those careers might not work out. So what's my first priority beyond the career working field where it seems so many people are diving into rather than prioritizing their desire to start a family? Now, don't get me wrong. I understand completely that some people rather not have a family anytime soon because either their not sure just yet or maybe they just don't want to and are content in what they are doing right now. That's awesome! I never, ever feel the need to put down someone else's desires but I am not them. I think, as humans, we should remember that we aren't all the same and though God may have given us all a general plan of Happiness, He probably knew that some parts of that plan weren't meant for certain people. I, on the other hand, realized that some of my temporary whims and wishes and thoughts weren't meant to be. God's ways are always going to be higher than mine. It's something I'm growing more comfortable in accepting. And along this journey in strengthening my connection with the Lord, I realized that one of the foremost things I want to do in my life that God has planned for me is to have the desire of being a mother. And so this blog post will be dedicated to one of the most prestigious jobs any person can have...being a Mother.
I've learned so much from my own mother. She's gone through many trials and tribulations in her life. But she says, as cliche as it sounds, that having me and my sister were the best two decisions in her entire life. My mother also talks a lot about how most of what she does is because it makes her happy. But not in the way we may think.
She says that she doesn't like cooking, but loves cooking for us.
She says that she doesn't like buying my organic vegan food but loves seeing me have compassion over animals, thus is fine with buying some of the foods to help me continue in my compassion.
She says she doesn't like waking up in the early morning, but loves seeing me go off to seminary.
And get this. I always thought my mom was the working type that loves her work without a doubt! But to my surprise she tells me, "If I could be a stay at home mom, I would in a heart beat. This is because sometimes I don't like going to work, but I like to know that I can provide for my daughters and myself".
Now again, hear me out. I am not trying to demean any women who work as a joyful living. I am just simply stating what my mother told me. Believe me, I was shocked! My mother is a hairstylist and has been ever since she was an adolescent. So I was expecting an answer like, "Yeah, I just love my job!" or something along those lines. But I realized something; being a mother is a job too.
A lot of people don't think like that. See, I'm feminist but I can see how being a mother is one of the best ways to show your femininity! Cause let's be honest, ladies...and I'm specifically talking to those who consider themselves feminists...how can we say we're feminists if we some of us don't embrace our motherly instincts! I think many feel, especially some in the Mormon Church, that some feminists are just out to destroy the title of a mother. Well, let me reassure you; I am a Mormon, a feminist and I want to be a mother when I grow up! I love seeing young mothers just as much as I love seeing successful working mothers or working women out there! They all inspire me! Instead of downgrading other women for their life decisions, how about we see the good in all their ways?
One I learned from my wonderful Mom is that being a mother is one of the best of things you can do. But that sometimes, that doesn't work for everyone! Just don't cross out the slight possibility of becoming a mother. You may be missing out. Just take into consideration. Never say never.
And one thing I'd like to end with; I've noticed something funny. It's like parents have their little gossip groups too. And I've seen parents criticize other parents parenting. AHEM. NOT COOL. One of the joys I think of motherhood is that it doesn't have to be cookie-cutter. You could be a mother who eats every night or one who cooks homemade everyday or one that makes organic vegan recipes with your husband because *cough cough* it's actually really good food. (Just had to pitch in another vegan statement in there). No matter what you do, it's working for your family. So keep on, keeping on! Don't listen to what other parents blabber about. And don't go on blabbering out their parenting either. We're all unique with certain talents, abilities and weaknesses. We can't all be the Brady Bunch, and I'm sure as anything that I don't want MY family to be exactly like the Brady Brunch. So whether your family might be on the conservative side or if your family has Obama Biden stickers on the back of your minivan, I salute you! In particularly the moms! This is also because Mother's Day is coming up soon . :) But in all seriousness, I feel that the joys of Motherhood are boundless and I've learned so much from my Mom that I hope to be like that with my kids.
And so in advance, Happy Mother's days to those hardworking Mothers out there all around the world! Ya'll are basically the reason we exist as humans today. So thank you!
As I said in my previous blog post, one of my priorities in life is to get married in the temple, ( for those of my friends/blog-readers who aren't Mormon but are interested in learning more about temples go to this site https://www.lds.org/church/temples/why-we-build-temples?lang=eng for more information)..., and have my own family. That obviously includes children. I've also pondered on what sort of career I should pursue. Though I love singing, blogging and giving out humanitarian aid, I have to also take in consideration that those careers might not work out. So what's my first priority beyond the career working field where it seems so many people are diving into rather than prioritizing their desire to start a family? Now, don't get me wrong. I understand completely that some people rather not have a family anytime soon because either their not sure just yet or maybe they just don't want to and are content in what they are doing right now. That's awesome! I never, ever feel the need to put down someone else's desires but I am not them. I think, as humans, we should remember that we aren't all the same and though God may have given us all a general plan of Happiness, He probably knew that some parts of that plan weren't meant for certain people. I, on the other hand, realized that some of my temporary whims and wishes and thoughts weren't meant to be. God's ways are always going to be higher than mine. It's something I'm growing more comfortable in accepting. And along this journey in strengthening my connection with the Lord, I realized that one of the foremost things I want to do in my life that God has planned for me is to have the desire of being a mother. And so this blog post will be dedicated to one of the most prestigious jobs any person can have...being a Mother.
I've learned so much from my own mother. She's gone through many trials and tribulations in her life. But she says, as cliche as it sounds, that having me and my sister were the best two decisions in her entire life. My mother also talks a lot about how most of what she does is because it makes her happy. But not in the way we may think.
She says that she doesn't like cooking, but loves cooking for us.
She says that she doesn't like buying my organic vegan food but loves seeing me have compassion over animals, thus is fine with buying some of the foods to help me continue in my compassion.
She says she doesn't like waking up in the early morning, but loves seeing me go off to seminary.
And get this. I always thought my mom was the working type that loves her work without a doubt! But to my surprise she tells me, "If I could be a stay at home mom, I would in a heart beat. This is because sometimes I don't like going to work, but I like to know that I can provide for my daughters and myself".
Now again, hear me out. I am not trying to demean any women who work as a joyful living. I am just simply stating what my mother told me. Believe me, I was shocked! My mother is a hairstylist and has been ever since she was an adolescent. So I was expecting an answer like, "Yeah, I just love my job!" or something along those lines. But I realized something; being a mother is a job too.
A lot of people don't think like that. See, I'm feminist but I can see how being a mother is one of the best ways to show your femininity! Cause let's be honest, ladies...and I'm specifically talking to those who consider themselves feminists...how can we say we're feminists if we some of us don't embrace our motherly instincts! I think many feel, especially some in the Mormon Church, that some feminists are just out to destroy the title of a mother. Well, let me reassure you; I am a Mormon, a feminist and I want to be a mother when I grow up! I love seeing young mothers just as much as I love seeing successful working mothers or working women out there! They all inspire me! Instead of downgrading other women for their life decisions, how about we see the good in all their ways?
One I learned from my wonderful Mom is that being a mother is one of the best of things you can do. But that sometimes, that doesn't work for everyone! Just don't cross out the slight possibility of becoming a mother. You may be missing out. Just take into consideration. Never say never.
And one thing I'd like to end with; I've noticed something funny. It's like parents have their little gossip groups too. And I've seen parents criticize other parents parenting. AHEM. NOT COOL. One of the joys I think of motherhood is that it doesn't have to be cookie-cutter. You could be a mother who eats every night or one who cooks homemade everyday or one that makes organic vegan recipes with your husband because *cough cough* it's actually really good food. (Just had to pitch in another vegan statement in there). No matter what you do, it's working for your family. So keep on, keeping on! Don't listen to what other parents blabber about. And don't go on blabbering out their parenting either. We're all unique with certain talents, abilities and weaknesses. We can't all be the Brady Bunch, and I'm sure as anything that I don't want MY family to be exactly like the Brady Brunch. So whether your family might be on the conservative side or if your family has Obama Biden stickers on the back of your minivan, I salute you! In particularly the moms! This is also because Mother's Day is coming up soon . :) But in all seriousness, I feel that the joys of Motherhood are boundless and I've learned so much from my Mom that I hope to be like that with my kids.
And so in advance, Happy Mother's days to those hardworking Mothers out there all around the world! Ya'll are basically the reason we exist as humans today. So thank you!
Saturday, April 26, 2014
My 3 Top Priorities in Life
So, I feel quite abruptly impressed to share my top 3 priorities in life. I feel it's always enlightening to share your ambitions and aspirations...especially if it has to do with the eternal perspectives of things.
And so, here are my top 3 priorities in my life.
1. To Get Married in the Temple
This may sound so foreign and strange coming from an LG(B)T Mormon but it's true. I've pondered and prayed about it and meditated on it extensively and came to this resolution; For me, family always come first. Now, in my personal opinion, I think "family" shouldn't be defined only through a man and a woman. But for me, in my life, I've decided that I want to marry in the temple and soon after that commence in beginning my family. I'm getting goose bumps just thinking about it! God's plan of happiness for me hasn't been the easiest for me to come to terms with but I know it's the only plan that will bring me eternal joy and peace. Take notice that I do cherish and support my fellow LGBT brothers and sisters. I feel that God has a specific plan for each us and generalizing others lives and relationships is just going to stir contention and hardening of the hearts. But if we open up our arms with unconditional love and empathy, we will near closer to God and others and will be exemplifying Christ. But like I said for me, Mrs. and
Mr. is the plan.
2. To Help Others in all that I do and Say
I'm not perfect in any shape or form, but I strive to love every human, animal and living organism out there. One of my many hopeful wishes is to become a Humanitarian and work intensively with third world countries...especially Africa. I don't know why but Africa and the people there have held a special, irrevocable place in my heart. I pray that one day I will get the chance to explore a place where I already imagine to be a second home.
I also, as many already know, love animals. I became vegan recently and loving every minute of it. I did not only for the awesome health benefits but for the lives of so many tortured animals. I'm sorry, and I don't mean to scrutinize meat eaters, but I don't want my body to be a tomb for once living creatures. Ethically, it doesn't seem right to me. I don't look at animals as something we can use for our benefit and our enjoyment but as fellow living neighbors. They have feelings and can feel pain, love and basically all the emotions we feel. That is why I've committed myself from meat and dairy products. Funny, I've honestly lengthened the word of Wisdom for myself. :) But I'm definitely not complaining.
I also strive to defend others, especially those who can't seem to do it for themselves. I'm an activist for anti-bullying, the LGBT community, UNICEF, Suicide awareness, as well as eating and mental disorders. I just feel that I was sent down to give love and empathy and happiness to those around me, instead of tearing them down for their differences. I personally have gone through trials, like anyone else. My trials including bullying, suicide attempts, self-harm issues and an eating disorder. But I got through those hardships by the grace of God and those around me and professional help. And one of my biggest influences that has gone through similar afflictions but is staying strong is Demi Lovato. (If you know me, then you'll understand the immense love and admiration I have for her). She's literally been an angel to me. And by that, I learned that I want to be that for others. I want others to know their not alone and are loved.
3. To Look Like Love
There is a song by a Christian artist, Britt Nicole, and it is called "Look like Love". The lyrics emphasizes the importance of not just believing in our Savior, but exemplifying Him so that we can "look like love". Christ is parallel to the definition of love. He IS love, and it is our duties as His daughters and sons to share His Love, His grace-filled Love to the world. We are His burning lights! Let us go boldly and share His love through not only our words, but deeds.
And as one of the lyrics go...."If I believe there's a Savior, is the proof in me? Is He alive and breathing? Is He what they see when they look at me?"
I plan on asking myself that everyday of my life.
- xo
And so, here are my top 3 priorities in my life.
1. To Get Married in the Temple
This may sound so foreign and strange coming from an LG(B)T Mormon but it's true. I've pondered and prayed about it and meditated on it extensively and came to this resolution; For me, family always come first. Now, in my personal opinion, I think "family" shouldn't be defined only through a man and a woman. But for me, in my life, I've decided that I want to marry in the temple and soon after that commence in beginning my family. I'm getting goose bumps just thinking about it! God's plan of happiness for me hasn't been the easiest for me to come to terms with but I know it's the only plan that will bring me eternal joy and peace. Take notice that I do cherish and support my fellow LGBT brothers and sisters. I feel that God has a specific plan for each us and generalizing others lives and relationships is just going to stir contention and hardening of the hearts. But if we open up our arms with unconditional love and empathy, we will near closer to God and others and will be exemplifying Christ. But like I said for me, Mrs. and
Mr. is the plan.
2. To Help Others in all that I do and Say
I'm not perfect in any shape or form, but I strive to love every human, animal and living organism out there. One of my many hopeful wishes is to become a Humanitarian and work intensively with third world countries...especially Africa. I don't know why but Africa and the people there have held a special, irrevocable place in my heart. I pray that one day I will get the chance to explore a place where I already imagine to be a second home.
I also, as many already know, love animals. I became vegan recently and loving every minute of it. I did not only for the awesome health benefits but for the lives of so many tortured animals. I'm sorry, and I don't mean to scrutinize meat eaters, but I don't want my body to be a tomb for once living creatures. Ethically, it doesn't seem right to me. I don't look at animals as something we can use for our benefit and our enjoyment but as fellow living neighbors. They have feelings and can feel pain, love and basically all the emotions we feel. That is why I've committed myself from meat and dairy products. Funny, I've honestly lengthened the word of Wisdom for myself. :) But I'm definitely not complaining.
I also strive to defend others, especially those who can't seem to do it for themselves. I'm an activist for anti-bullying, the LGBT community, UNICEF, Suicide awareness, as well as eating and mental disorders. I just feel that I was sent down to give love and empathy and happiness to those around me, instead of tearing them down for their differences. I personally have gone through trials, like anyone else. My trials including bullying, suicide attempts, self-harm issues and an eating disorder. But I got through those hardships by the grace of God and those around me and professional help. And one of my biggest influences that has gone through similar afflictions but is staying strong is Demi Lovato. (If you know me, then you'll understand the immense love and admiration I have for her). She's literally been an angel to me. And by that, I learned that I want to be that for others. I want others to know their not alone and are loved.
3. To Look Like Love
There is a song by a Christian artist, Britt Nicole, and it is called "Look like Love". The lyrics emphasizes the importance of not just believing in our Savior, but exemplifying Him so that we can "look like love". Christ is parallel to the definition of love. He IS love, and it is our duties as His daughters and sons to share His Love, His grace-filled Love to the world. We are His burning lights! Let us go boldly and share His love through not only our words, but deeds.
And as one of the lyrics go...."If I believe there's a Savior, is the proof in me? Is He alive and breathing? Is He what they see when they look at me?"
I plan on asking myself that everyday of my life.
- xo
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
Song of the month..."I am Light"
This is "I Am Light" by India Arie.
Listen, and be enlightened.
Quote of the day...: "I am not the things my family did, I am not the voices in my head, I am not the pieces of the brokenness inside...I am light" - India Arie.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
THINKING OUT LOUD (PART1)
Today... I have too many outspoken opinions to go back to status quo.
So...
I ain't going back.
Now, when speaking of God, His LOVE, abounding love, is SO astronomical. How can He not love a reckless sinner like me?
Maybe, I'm just thinking out loud...but I think God is not exactly doctrinal. I think He is unpredictable, irreverent and far from our standard of perfect. Because I just can't see myself being "perfect" for eternity with the sole prize of celestial glory. I think God is humorous, playfully sarcastic, and I just can't see Him not laugh at one vulgar joke ever...I mean come on. Those are pretty funny. And yes I know. God is good. But what is good exactly? Because it is true that light casts off darkness at most times. But without the darkness, how could we know that the light is good? And if darkness is so bad, why did God choose there to be a night?
I don't think it's because it's an allegory for sin and sadness but a direct reflection of how there is always good in all things no matter what the color or shape or form it is in.
The night is not always bad. It can be illuminating.
Light isn't always good. It can be blinding.
So our own interpretation of good can't always be good.
And our own interpretation of bad can't always be bad.
Maybe what I'm saying right now, God disdains.
He might be contemptuously disapproving my words.
But that possibility doesn't bother me, because I know I am human. I have opinions. I will never be a direct parallel to God. Or to your God. Or any other universal form of deity because guess what...
I am not perfect.
I am not good at all times.
I can be bad.
And that's okay.
It's okay.
All is okay.
And sometimes ALL can suck.
But...
I think we all humans can all agree consciously, subconsciously or just come to know that there is only one universal truth we can all agree on. And it isn't religion. It is...
LOVE.
Love always wins.
You know why?
Because love is not perfect. It's far from it.
And it can be bad and good.
It's not afraid of crossroads.
But it can be scary.
It can be angry, impatient, jealous.
And yet it can kind, gentle and soft.
And we all strive for it, one way or another.
And you know what else?
I think hate roots from love.
Hate seems to be a more aggressive term of love.
Nobody wants to admit that.
So...I don't really know what I'm saying, but I know where I'm coming from.
I'm coming from love.
Where are you from?
And where will you be going?
I may be thinking out loud, but if you think you know for sure.
You're lying.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Bishop's fireside?..More like a bully's playhouse...
I find it funny how so many of the LDS Church Leaders will raise awareness about bullying...but in such a vague way. Except for Dieter F. Uchdorf. But seriously. I just need to rant.
So I went to this Bishop's fireside today. (In simpler terms, for my non-Mormon blog-readers that basically means that we go to our pastor's house and we do some games and learn more about God and his Word) and was just astonished and offended on the profanity that went on. No, it wasn't necessarily crud language...but wait...it actually was. Just not the "cuss word" language. More like the language bullies speak; ignorance.
Many people wonder what kind of man I will marry when I grow up. Quick side note.
1) I am gay, so that probably won't happen
2) If I wasn't, it would most likely not be an LDS man, unless by some miracle I find one that isn't like the ones I've seen in this fireside. (But there are definitely good Mormon men in my ward and local church...don't get me wrong.)
And another quick side note before I explain what happened at the fireside.
I remember one day, my sister brought one of her friends to a church youth activity. A nice young man who seemed to forget her name because my sister's friend had been to some activities before, asked her what her name was. One of the other young men in my church, walked by with a sneering expression and said, "loser".
To some that may seem playfully harmless, (Not to me), but to that non-member friend of my sister...she was completely and utterly hurt. She hasn't really come back often due to the fact that she thinks most, not all, but most of the men there are rude.
Hmmmmm. I wonder why.
So, skip back to the fireside that took place today. We played a game and then got some free time to talk to the other youth. Here are just some of things that the youth were saying about others, in particularly what the young men were saying.
"Ha. Look at him. He looks like a serial killer. Don't let him near us."
"Ew. There is a gay reference in the movie Frozen? That shouldn't be for children's eyes."
"MOVE, WOMAN."
"Shut up. Nobody cares." (A young man said this repeatedly to me whenever I would voice my opinion...and he was the same one who called my sister's friend a loser...)
"Look, she's so ugly"...
Now don't get me twisted. There are a few, rare good men in our youth program. But I just don't think that's okay.
And it seemed that I was the only one noticing these things and taking some action. Some of them of coarse accused me of being over-sensitive. But am I really? The suicide rates are rising. The eating disorder rates are rising. And so are the bullying.
So, it looks like everyone else is de-sensitizing. Trying to pretend that "it" isn't there. "it" being the sly bullying that goes on in this world today. Even in the walls of our churches.
This, of coarse, is not new. Jesus went through this. He was ridiculed for being who He was...and for defending and loving ones that were known to be "unpopular".
Now, let me just say this. I don't swear. But when it comes to this, it's something I feel strongly about and this subject...I would die for.
I swear, if I had to choose between living a life full of ignoring the real issues of the day like bullying and never being able to defend others...and live a life of complete silence against them...I would rather die.
I am disgusted at the way some youth act like. We need to change this. There has been too many suicides. Too many attempts. Too many lives taken...for such a cause that can be improved.
I am planning definitely to speak to my ward members about this issue. And it isn't just the young men. It's all the youth, including the young women. The ones who snicker at the victimizing comments are just as worse as the one who said those awful words.
And the leaders need to do something about it too. It can't just be me. Or another person...who happens to be a youth as well. LDS leaders...if you see bullying, even a hint, CONFRONT THE PROBLEM. I don't know how much I can stress this enough. I've seen countless of look-aways from the youth leaders that I've become immune to it so much that it feels like I am obligated to take their place and keep things in order. Of coarse, I do not mind this. I love breaking down a bullying situation. But it can't just be one person. It has to be us ALL.
I thought this was the Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints.
It is I guess.
Just without the Jesus Christ.
We need to change that.
And we can. It's pretty simple.
And of coarse again, there will be hate for this.
There will always be someone ridiculing someone else because they are taking off the stigma of unpopular taboos.
It's funny too...that we talk so much about how we must be kind. Yet it seems like some of the meanest people come from my own church. I don't know.
It just doesn't feel right.
So help me change this. It doesn't have to be this way. And if you're bully, you can change too. Actually, it was a huge probability that the bully is the way he/she is because they were bullied as well.
Sure, we may not be able to stop all hate...but at least we can try.
And to help motivate you...here's a little video about Ellen Page (ONE OF MY FAVORITE PEOPLE EVER) talk in the Human Rights Campaign talk about the work and service of defending others at the TIME TO THRIVE conference. (You may have watched this video before...I just love it so much...)
P.S. Sorry for all the parenthesis quotations.
Be kind to one another.
So I went to this Bishop's fireside today. (In simpler terms, for my non-Mormon blog-readers that basically means that we go to our pastor's house and we do some games and learn more about God and his Word) and was just astonished and offended on the profanity that went on. No, it wasn't necessarily crud language...but wait...it actually was. Just not the "cuss word" language. More like the language bullies speak; ignorance.
Many people wonder what kind of man I will marry when I grow up. Quick side note.
1) I am gay, so that probably won't happen
2) If I wasn't, it would most likely not be an LDS man, unless by some miracle I find one that isn't like the ones I've seen in this fireside. (But there are definitely good Mormon men in my ward and local church...don't get me wrong.)
And another quick side note before I explain what happened at the fireside.
I remember one day, my sister brought one of her friends to a church youth activity. A nice young man who seemed to forget her name because my sister's friend had been to some activities before, asked her what her name was. One of the other young men in my church, walked by with a sneering expression and said, "loser".
To some that may seem playfully harmless, (Not to me), but to that non-member friend of my sister...she was completely and utterly hurt. She hasn't really come back often due to the fact that she thinks most, not all, but most of the men there are rude.
Hmmmmm. I wonder why.
So, skip back to the fireside that took place today. We played a game and then got some free time to talk to the other youth. Here are just some of things that the youth were saying about others, in particularly what the young men were saying.
"Ha. Look at him. He looks like a serial killer. Don't let him near us."
"Ew. There is a gay reference in the movie Frozen? That shouldn't be for children's eyes."
"MOVE, WOMAN."
"Shut up. Nobody cares." (A young man said this repeatedly to me whenever I would voice my opinion...and he was the same one who called my sister's friend a loser...)
"Look, she's so ugly"...
Now don't get me twisted. There are a few, rare good men in our youth program. But I just don't think that's okay.
And it seemed that I was the only one noticing these things and taking some action. Some of them of coarse accused me of being over-sensitive. But am I really? The suicide rates are rising. The eating disorder rates are rising. And so are the bullying.
So, it looks like everyone else is de-sensitizing. Trying to pretend that "it" isn't there. "it" being the sly bullying that goes on in this world today. Even in the walls of our churches.
This, of coarse, is not new. Jesus went through this. He was ridiculed for being who He was...and for defending and loving ones that were known to be "unpopular".
Now, let me just say this. I don't swear. But when it comes to this, it's something I feel strongly about and this subject...I would die for.
I swear, if I had to choose between living a life full of ignoring the real issues of the day like bullying and never being able to defend others...and live a life of complete silence against them...I would rather die.
I am disgusted at the way some youth act like. We need to change this. There has been too many suicides. Too many attempts. Too many lives taken...for such a cause that can be improved.
I am planning definitely to speak to my ward members about this issue. And it isn't just the young men. It's all the youth, including the young women. The ones who snicker at the victimizing comments are just as worse as the one who said those awful words.
And the leaders need to do something about it too. It can't just be me. Or another person...who happens to be a youth as well. LDS leaders...if you see bullying, even a hint, CONFRONT THE PROBLEM. I don't know how much I can stress this enough. I've seen countless of look-aways from the youth leaders that I've become immune to it so much that it feels like I am obligated to take their place and keep things in order. Of coarse, I do not mind this. I love breaking down a bullying situation. But it can't just be one person. It has to be us ALL.
I thought this was the Church of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-Day Saints.
It is I guess.
Just without the Jesus Christ.
We need to change that.
And we can. It's pretty simple.
And of coarse again, there will be hate for this.
There will always be someone ridiculing someone else because they are taking off the stigma of unpopular taboos.
It's funny too...that we talk so much about how we must be kind. Yet it seems like some of the meanest people come from my own church. I don't know.
It just doesn't feel right.
So help me change this. It doesn't have to be this way. And if you're bully, you can change too. Actually, it was a huge probability that the bully is the way he/she is because they were bullied as well.
Sure, we may not be able to stop all hate...but at least we can try.
And to help motivate you...here's a little video about Ellen Page (ONE OF MY FAVORITE PEOPLE EVER) talk in the Human Rights Campaign talk about the work and service of defending others at the TIME TO THRIVE conference. (You may have watched this video before...I just love it so much...)
P.S. Sorry for all the parenthesis quotations.
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