Today is a hard day. I, like many others, have endured a lot of trials in the last week and a half since the news broke that Kate Kelly and John Dehlin were facing excommunication.
Fortunately, not everyone has been cruel or unkind, and this is what I want to bring to others today. We need strength as a community, so I am sending this missive into the void in hopes that it brings happiness to my friends today.
Below you can read what my friend, a very conservative Mormon, sent me, and I ask you to share it. Pass this message of love along to those who are hurting. This is for Ordain Women supporters and naysayers. It is for Liahona and Iron Rod Mormons. It is for those who stay and those who leave. It is for progressives and conservatives. Whether you believe in black and white or shades of gray, this is for you.
I wanted to tell you something... that I have thought a lot about lately. I don't agree with OW or much that has come from its followers, but I have realized over the last week that it doesn't matter how much I agree or disagree. I don't know what it feels like to be in your shoes. Based on your Facebook posts, we hardly agree on anything, but years ago we served the same God and worked in the same mission to bring souls to Christ and to testify of the same truth. Ultimately, it does' t [sic] matter that we have the same political views or even the same approach to the church, because we are both imperfectly attempting to become perfect through Christ and you and every member of OW is my sister. ... I guess in a way I just want to say I am sorry. I am sorry if you have been hurt by comments by members or even by me. You shouldn't have to endure that within the church.
He's right, friends. We shouldn't have to endure hurt within the walls of a community founded to follow Christ. We probably will continue to endure problems of varying degrees of hostility, but today, remember that one kind man sent one message meant for everyone, and, just maybe, it's going to be okay.
