Scottie wrote:So, while I don't discount your spiritual experiences, would it be fair to say that you had been conditioned beforehand to interpret those feelings a certian way? If someone had not told you that a burning in the bosom is God witnessing to you, would you have thought that by yourself?
It would be fair to say that I had been exposed to some of Mormonism's teachings, including the burning in the bosom etc. I grew up here, so it's easy to say I had been exposed to Mormonism. I would probably take issue with the word "pre-disposed" or "conditioned". That would be an exaggeration.
I knew enough about some Mormon people to know I didn't want to be one. That's true. About every 6months to a year I would become a Ward "project". I'm sure they meant well, but when I didn't respond, they gave up until a new Young Men's Pres would be called and then we would start over. I hated them for that.
I was also looked down on because I smoked and drank and did drugs. I listened to music very loud as I drove down my neighborhood street. I brought a gang presence into my neighborhood. Some parents didn't like their kids around me. I resented that. (Now that I'm a parent I can't say I blame them).
Anyway, my spiritual journey began far far away from Mormonism. My conversion to Mormonism took years. But it took years to get to Mormonism. I began with contempt, but an ability to suspend disbelief long enough to view the Religion with a semblance of objectivity.
That was very convoluted, hope it helps!
Big UP!
Lamanite
