Clearing up misconceptions

I had a great conversation with a co-worker yesterday. It began during lunch, and extended through my entire planning period. This friend admitted to me that the only thing she knew about Mormons (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints), before meeting me, was that the Osmonds were Mormon.

She had the idea, like many people do, that we are ultra-conservative and very strict. I explained to her that while the Church may seem to put many restrictions on its members, we have our agency. And while the church does give us many guidelines, ultimately it is up to us to choose how we live. Here are just a few of the topics we discussed...

Dancing

Yes, Mormons are allowed to dance. And we do so quite frequently!

Missions

Yes, "good Mormon boys" are supposed to go at age 19, for 2 whole years! And we don't get to choose where we go, and we have missionaries all over, not just in 3rd world countries. My brother served in Salt Lake City. She thinks it is great that they have this opportunity to "grow up" and come back as men. I would have to agree with that.

Polygamy

THEN: When the Church began the practice of polygamy in the 1800's, there were many women and children who had been left without husbands and fathers. Without a man to provide for them, they would have been left destitute. So during this difficult time, men took on more than one wife to help provide for the widows and orphans.

NOW: When Utah became a state and polygamy became illegal, the LDS church abandoned the practice. Those who practice polygamy today are NOT affiliated with our church.

While we didn't talk much about doctrine, it was a positive discussion and helped to dispel some of the rumors or misconceptions that float around about our Church and our beliefs. And hopefully she will continue to ask questions.