Conclusions about the Church and a Thank You to the board...

[_Yoda]

Today, I was thinking about Kish's thread in Telestial about becoming bored with Mormonism.

I started reflecting on my thoughts about the Church, and my own journey through my trial of faith.

I started seriously questioning aspects of Church doctrine around 2003. It was during this time that I learned some disturbing things about Joseph Smith's polyandry, the incident with Fanny Alger, and MMM. It was also during this time period when I learned about how ruthless Brigham Young was as a leader, overall.

This caused me to seriously reevaluate the Church I had grown up in.

Overall, the Church has blessed my life. My family is deeply involved in the Church, my husband, in particular. Since my husband and I had recently reconciled after nearly divorcing (over matters unrelated to religion), I did not want to "rock the boat".

Through all of the little twists and turns, my friends on this board have been here for me, and I want to thank all of you for that.

I feel like I am finally at a place where I am at peace with how I feel in regards to the Church.

I have been able to establish a way to still be an active member, and participate on my terms. That is, in a large part, due to the support I have received here.

My path is not for everyone, and I completely respect those who decide to go a different direction. Everyone has to do what is best for themselves and for their family.

I am comfortable with my choice, and with the opportuniity I have to voice my concerns here.

[_Shulem]

I think you are doing just fine, Liz. Everything is as it should be. You are happy and that is what counts! You have a husband and a homelife and it's working out. The church is something to do on the side and add a little spice to your life -- just don't pour too much of that spice or you'll sneeze.

I'm happy too. My life is an utter joy! I never knew happiness was possible. Being myself is all I ever want to be. It's pure joy.

Hot tub tonight at 9PM sharp with a friend. Life is good. I won't be going to church on Sunday (I never go to church) but I'm seeing a play Sunday night!!

Paul O

[_zeezrom]

Through all of the little twists and turns, my friends on this board have been here for me, and I want to thank all of you for that.

You have certainly "been here" for many others on this board as well. Thanks back to you, as well. Seriously, what would this place be without you?

[Guest]

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[_sock puppet]

There is no one true path in life and it is up to each of us to decide what is best for us.

I think the truthfulness of that statement is the biggest threat facing LDS Church and other religions/institutions that try to dictate a certain lifestyle, down to what even is acceptable or not to eat or drink, ear piercings (or their number), etc.

[_RockSlider]

liz,

I had never heard that your husband and you were having some serious issues. I'm glad you have worked them out. I suppose every marriage comes to the question of divorce from time to time, heck mine sure has. Those same old issues that drive you to that point, never seem to go away. However the importance, to the point of considering divorce over them seems to diminish over time. The once hard feelings are replaced with feelings of love and respect. There are many times that I have looked back and been so grateful that the wife and I toughed it out through those hard times and did not thrown in the towel. The future tends to bring new perspective and appreciation.

Your expressions here are appreciated, and I'm glad you are feeling settled at this time. I also hope that things are well with your health, and that your children also sense your calm.

I too have much appreciated your efforts here at our beloved trailer park, at our second home.

God bless you and yours

[_consiglieri]

Your journey sounds a lot like mine, Liz (except for the "husband" part).

I appreciate your support, and this board has been a huge benefit to me, as well. It is here that I can come to explore my feelings and thoughts without being worrying I will be attacked or silenced.

This board and the people who post here have been a huge benefit to me in my spiritual growth and for that, I thank Shades and all the denizens of the Trailer Park.

All the Best!

--Consiglieri

[_Yoda]

Through all of the little twists and turns, my friends on this board have been here for me, and I want to thank all of you for that.

You have certainly "been here" for many others on this board as well. Thanks back to you, as well. Seriously, what would this place be without you?

Awww...thanks, Zee! :-)

And, thanks to all of the kind remarks.

I really do view this board as a second family.

[_Dr. Shades]

I'm happy for you, Liz. I really am.

[_Yoda]

I'm happy for you, Liz. I really am.

Thanks, Shades. :-)

And thanks for being so supportive when MAD/FAIR was being, well, MAD! LOL

I have really enjoyed helping you on the board here.