I have pretty great parents. I grew up in a very socially and ethnically diverse area. I feel it made me a pretty understanding and tolerant person.
As a kid I was aloud to try many religions, and have learned some amazing life lessons from all the wonderful religions I had the opportunity to visit. I loved how the Southern Baptists celebrated there faith with music and dance. While visiting you could really feel there faith. They also had a awesome summer Bible camp that I attended every summer (until they found out I was Mormon, and asked me to never come back)
As a kid I remember the Jehovah Witnesses as being the funnest church, did you know that a lot of there buildings have cafeteria’s with ice cream machines ( I think it’s their equivalent of a Stake center). During intermission my friend and I helped ourselves to huge cones and I couldn’t help but think they were way cooler than our church.Â
As a teen I went to a Methodist sleep in, totally fun. It’s like a huge slumber party only better.
I enjoyed the solemn rituals of the Catholic church, (the Catholic church was by far the dominate religion in our area) and learned from the Muslim’s to always research what you believe, and not just take everyone else’s word for it. Gain your own testimony not just have one handed to you.
The lesson’s I’ve learned have served me well in my life, but our religion has always been where my heart belongs. All the other church’s had a lot to offer, but I always came back to what I knew to be true. I have always been grateful to my parents for giving me the opportunity to find out for myself.
I want this for my kids, but find it difficult to show them diversity while living in Utah. Don’t get me wrong I love living here, I just realize I have to work a little harder to teach my kids that not everyone thinks the way we do and that it’s ok.
This year I have decided to join the Lent band wagon. I am not Catholic, but as a Mormon I know a little something about self deprivation. So this year in honor of Lent (and my diet) I will be giving up soda. I know it doesn’t sound like much, but for me it is A LOT.
In honor of our dear late prophet I will also be reading the Book of Mormon in 97 days for the 97 years of his life.
So tell me are you giving something up for Lent? If not do you have any special goals or New Years resolutions?