In another thread, the poster told about how a priesthood guy told him it was disrespectful to practice classical music on a piano in a deserted mormon chapel.

For many reasons, it's incredible, is't it?

First, it shows an appalling misunderstanding of the word "respect" as it confuses the deep feeling of awe, the meaning of respect, with some outward action which might or might not reflect actual respect.

Second, it's silly to suggest that sacred buildings are defiled by honest human usage. Unlike many other churches, mormons underuse their buildings. Does it show more respect to keep them locked up most of the time or to open them to those who could put them to good use? Anyone can walk into many churches almost any time if they want private time or a quiet place for reflection, but never can anyone go into a mormon church or temple unless they're there for an officially approved purpose. I don't see this as being very respectful.

I don't think it's disrespectful if babies drop Cheerios or spit milk, nor if toddlers struggle and become squirmy. These kinds of things go on whenever tiny tots must be confined for three hours with limited flexibility to fulfill their needs.

Third, I think human needs trump worship of buildings. Mormons sing to and idolize their temples and other buildings. To me, this smacks of idol worship which is misguided "respect."

Men wearing white shirts, women wearing only skirts, whispering, not laughing, playing only mormon hymns on the pianos and organs, keeping buildings locked, and not allowing non TR holders into temples, none of this is necessarily indicative of the real meaning of respect.

Nor is respecting buildings more praisworthy than respecting human needs.

I show my respect for Marriott hotels by catching a little porn.

A building is a building is a building.

I'm respectful during a Sacrament service because I'm respecting the right of others to have a period of quiet contemplation.

I'm respectful during talks because people have a right to have their efforts rewarded with people listening.

I'm respectful of my wife because if I'm not she will beat the crap out of me! (actually, I think I can take her but she would stop my allowance or ground me)

People trump buildings, every time...