Lets Faith It

Learning from those who are different
Saydi and I attended a book signing and lecture by Mormon Women. Emma Lou Thanye was one of the speakers. I loved her comment that she has learned so much from others who are unlike herself. She also doesn't think of herself as a role model or example because she just is who she is. Catherine Stokes said that she doesn't think of herself as having courage because if you have courage you know you are being courageous. She says she just does what she feels she needs to do. Another woman from connecticut said she was told that there were alot of sterotypical women in Utah, but that she has never met one because everyone she has met has a story that doesn't fit the stereotypical model. I asked a question about whether they believe mormon women can create solutions for love and inclusion of our gay and lesbian loved ones in the church. Sister Stokes said she feels it is a civil rights question and we can be accepting. Sister Thayne said she feels we should listen to others and welcome them with love into our circle. She emphasized the fact that everyone has a story. I want to note what I am thinking. It is the children of the church who need to be taught to accept themselves. It is when you are a child that you realize you may be different. What can we create to develop self acceptance in gospel terms. What would Jesus do.

After the meeting I spoke with two moms and we talked about our role as women in the church and these issues. Each of them also knew gay and lesbian loved ones. I was encouraged that people really do care. We are just stuck not really knowing if we need to be or not. Some think we have all the answers we need. Some, like me, think we are standing at the door to the heart and Christ is inviting us to knock and enter. I believe upon entering we will find our loved ones embraced by his love and light. And we will be welcomed if we wish to be.