Being Mormon In A Modern Society (From A Frustrated Mormon Woman)

In a world filled with diverse beliefs and perspectives, I proudly proclaim, "Yes, I'm a Mormon. LDS. Latter Day Saint. Whatever you wish to call me..." My faith is not just a label; it's a part of who I am, woven into the very fabric of my being. I'm open and love discussing various subjects, especially my beliefs, which have shaped my life in profound ways.

But there comes a time when discussions turn into something more insidious. It's when individuals try to convince me to leave my religion, manipulate me, or disguise their true motives behind seemingly innocent questions. They want to "prove me wrong" and insist that I'm bound for hell, destined for harsh judgment. When respect for boundaries is discarded, I choose to disengage from such conversations.

Let me be clear: I am not lukewarm in my faith. I wholeheartedly believe in the gospel of the LDS church. I believe the Book of Mormon is true, and I have unwavering faith in the Bible. Every fiber of my being resonates with the power and beauty of temple covenants and God's boundless love for every individual.

I'm not lukewarm because I stand exactly where I believe I need to be. I'm not perched on the fence, contemplating whether to leave the church. I've made my choice and others who make theirs are not lukewarm either. They hold firm convictions, just as I do, and that's something to be respected.

Being called "lukewarm" is not an insult to me. It's simply not true. I know who I am and whose I am. I refuse to impose my beliefs on others. Instead, I choose to express my faith through art—through poetry, photography, painting, and sculpting. It's my unique way of being a missionary, of sharing my love for my Almighty God. If someone finds inspiration or solace in my creations, then I've done something good. However, I won't coerce anyone into discussing it; this is my way of spreading the message.

I adamantly reject the idea of someone telling me that I'm "living life wrong" or that I'm "loving and following God wrong." If you're going to scrutinize someone's beliefs and lifestyle, there are far better candidates for your attention.

Our world is filled with those committing dangerous sins, perpetuating violence against themselves and others. If you feel compelled to use your words and heart to influence change, then focus on those who consistently engage in destructive behavior. Leave individuals like me, who are trying to make the world a better place through love, kindness, and faith, alone.

I don't need to prove myself to anyone, for I know the areas in which I strive to improve, as a mother, sister, friend, daughter, photographer, artist, poet, dog owner, and daughter of God. I invest effort into self-improvement and facing the world with grace. God knows my heart, and His judgment is the only one that truly matters.

I don't need pretentious Bible bashing. I say all of this because I'm not the only one who faces unwarranted criticism from self-proclaimed "Bible-thumping idiots." By this, I mean those who claim to be Christian but consistently condemn others as "sinful" without truly knowing them or acknowledging the light they carry within.

Even after years of pouring out work, prayer, effort, service, love, and kindness, these individuals remain blind to the goodness that surrounds them. Let us not be that kind of Christian, for God does not smile upon such behavior.

In conclusion, let us stand strong in our beliefs, respecting one another's boundaries and recognizing the beauty of diversity in faith. Let us be beacons of love, kindness, and understanding, for that is the path that truly reflects God's light.

With love and unwavering faith. - Aubs ❤️