Quote:
Originally Posted by pam
Otterpop might I post a question to you. I am honestly wanting your input on this. For those that leave the Church...for whatever the reasons might be...why do so many continue to frequent an LDS website?
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I'm happy to answer any questions asked honestly, and I think I would wonder this, too, if I were you.
I like talking about Mormonism. Mormonism is part of my heritage (not in the pioneer sense, because my parents were converts). Mormonism also still affects my life day-to-day, because I live in Salt Lake. I work with Mormons, I have friends who are Mormons, I have family members who are Mormons.
When it comes to grass-roots, ward-level Mormonism (and Mormons), I have a great affection. I have no regrets about being raised Mormon. (I do not have this same affection for the corporation of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.)
I have enjoyed participating on some boards in the past. If you've been online for any length of time, you know that boards change in tone and activity. My previous boards have either disappeared or become dull. I liked the tenor of this one, so I signed up. I'll stay as long as it suits me.
I am truly at peace about having left Mormonism, but growing up in Mormonism and practicing it is an intense experience. I see Mormonism as not just a religion but also as having many of the same characteristics as an ethic group. Imagine me as being like someone who comes from an Orthodox Jewish family, but who has chosen not to be an observer of the commandments. It doesn't mean I'm not Jewish, even though I have no intention of attending synagogue or taking part in any of the Jewish practices. (As I think about it, this is a good exploration of why some people can't "leave it alone.")
Bottom line for me is that I
do leave the LDS Church alone, but I don't need or want to abandon my "ethnic" Mormonism.
I also don't want to alienate my Mormon family or friends or make them uncomfortable with conversations about my experience of being an ex-Mormon, so I'd rather talk about it online.