I took a walk through Greenwich Village and SOHO today. As I was walking along Houston street approaching LaGuardia, I saw something quite adorable: two little kids, who appeared to be brother and sister, holding hands while walking a big black dog, which dog was about twice their collective size. Closely following this dynamic duo were two men, holding hands, making sure that the tikes didn’t run out onto Houston for an encounter with the oncoming M5 bus traffic.
I sincerely hope that leaders of the radical social right and their cohorts at the National Organization for Marriage will take the time to stroll down Houston Street on a Sunday afternoon. If they do so, I’m convinced that they will recognize the absurdity of their position.
Over the weekend I was fortunate to have the opportunity of participating as a panelist on the Mormon Expression podcast
I found the discussion to be lively, engaging, and challenging. The panel presented some tough questions which have pushed me toward greater reflection on some of the issues dealt with in my original research.
In any case, I do want to outline a few key points in regard to my paper for those of you who may be interested.
- My study was a preliminary or pilot study. It raises far more questions for further research than it does provide answers.
- Leaving Mormonism is a painful experience. Unfortunately we, as Mormons, have a hard time letting people go. As a result we tend to complicate the exit process. This is especially true of close friends and family members.
- Some people who have lost their faith in Mormonism may still want to be a part of the Church. My hope is that we can help people who have such a desire, find a way to retain their rich Mormon heritage.
These are some great ideas from the President. The US Savings rate is quite dismal. Let’s hope these efforts to increase the rate are effective.
