Posted by deirdrehbrt on February 25, 2006, at 19:36:14
In reply to Re: Lynn, An answer. Long., posted by rayww on February 25, 2006, at 15:57:51
Rayww,
I don't remember specific passages from the Doctrine and Covenants, or the Pearl of Great Price, though I had the book. I'm certain that I read great parts of them as I've always read everything that I could about what engaged me.
As far as what lead me away from the Church, it was learning more controversial teachings after having been baptized. I felt that I was fed what was palatable before, perhaps much as one feeds a baby a liquid diet, then cereal, then real food. It's just that the real food didn't in any way fit what I had known about God. Maybe it does for others. That's fine.
Here is a link that discusses the relationship between Battlestar Gallactica and the Church.
http://www.proaxis.com/~sherlockfam/art5.html
As far as thinking of the animal when eating meat, I certainly do. Life requires the taking of life. Even vegetarians, refusing to eat meat, need to recognize that there are animals displaced and killed in the act of creating a field on which to grow vegetables. Too, the plants themselves are living things killed to nourish our bodies. Life, except on a very small scale cannot exist without death.
Anyway, the final reason for my leaving the Church was that I am transgendered. The Church refuses to accept the biological nature of this condition, rather attributing it to Satan, as something which can be renounced. Reconcililation with the Church is not possible, at least until they come to the truth regarding this issue.
Instead, I've found my path in Pagan traditions. These seem to me to be somewhat more enlightened. My ancestors, who lived on this continent before the Europeans were much more open in this regard, not viewing it as a curse or abomination. Hopefully, some day, the world will realize that being GLBT isn't a choice or a sin, but rather just a way of being. I know that this probably is anathema to your beliefs, but honestly, I don't hold that against you in any way. I just know from years on my knees that this wasn't a burden that God was presently going to lift. It was a part of me with wich to deal.
It has certainly given me a perspective on suffering, intolerance and hatred.
Anyway, thank you for your reply. I wish you blessings and peace.
--Dee
poster:deirdrehbrt
thread:611474
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/faith/20051105/msgs/613302.html