Posted by:
SusieQ#1
(
)
Date: May 13, 2012 10:46PM
He sounds typical of those that find that Mormonism as their culture,heritage, religion, "tribe" works well for him, There is no crystal ball to see into the future but it may be something that works for him for his entire life. That seems to be true for generations of Mormons.
One very important thing I learned is that my choices and my concerns about Mormonism are mine alone. I have tried to explain myself to some other members, but, most often, they are not interested. That's fine with me.
Other people's choice of religion and life choices are really none of my business. I don't want people trying to change my mind about my core beliefs either.
There are dozens of examples of "pillars of faith" that have fallen into apostasy that post on this board.
I am convinced this statement says it best: "When the student is ready the teacher appears." (Paraphrased from Buddhism.)
A change in belief system needs to come from within the person because of concerns, a need, questions, etc. It can't be forced on someone.
Another important thing to remember is that we are not going to agree with everyone--they are not going to agree with us.
In my view, I leave religion alone for the most part. Same for politics. Those are highly personal, emotionally driven core beliefs that are not up for discussion and it's very often very bad manners to bother people about them.
In other words, respect and honor everyone's right to their beliefs, religion, core philosophy and stop trying to change people- you can't do it anyhow! :-)
Just because someone doesn't like Mormonism doesn't mean anyone else will dislike it too. Just because I changed my mind doesn't mean any of my Mormon believing relatives including my husband of nearly 50 years will change his mine. Nope. Not going to happen. So in my case, I leave it alone. Shut up about it! My loved ones are not stupid, duped, brainwashed, or some kind of dumb idiots just because they are Mormons and I know they don't appreciate being described in that manner, that is if they pay any attention to that kind of denigration in the first place. Most likely --- not. It's of no value to denigrate others because of their views.
Life is short. Live it in as much happiness and joy as possible. My view is that relationships are the important part of our existence: pleasant ones, harmonious ones,kind ones, respectful ones.... etc. Personally, who cares what someone's religion is?
It is not part of my relationship with them! Never. And I like it that way.
Will your brother change his mind about religion at some point? Might. Might not. In the case of my brother, I don't care.:-)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/13/2012 10:47PM by SusieQ#1.