[richlittell]

Wow! that was a great read, your digest I mean. Thanks for sharing that. You obviously have studied a lot and it sometimes hard to see how one church can claim to be the only true church and yet others have so much to give, and it's all very interesting besides. My personal take on other religions, religious leaders, and even great philosophers is that at various places and various times, God has always had inspired men, even if the fullness of the Gospel isn't there. Why, because we are ALL Heavenly Father's children, so it is not surprising that you find so many good things in other religions and philosophies, and that you have met so many wonderful people.

Things to keep in mind. Just as there are Mormons who are too proud, or not living the standards and such, and whatever other shortcomings you see in our church, you 'll find those shortcomings in other churches as well, in any king of organization--because we are all human.

My suggestion is, before going away from your church for some "soul-searching", stick with what did come to you first--remember, you did not choose the church, Heavenly Father chose you. Write down all -- ALL -- of your concerns, ask the Bishop to appoint someone to walk with you through this journey and to address all your issues. Once you have done that, if you are not satisfied-- then go out and do your soul-searching.

As for the feeling of hypocritical-- I think we all have that experience from time to time either because we aren't living right or we just have sincere doubts. I don't think that it will last forever. But you know, God knows what your thinking wherever you are or wherever you go, so you're never being hypocritical if you are just honest with him in your prayers, and then, just go and socialize and don't worry so much.
sincerely,
rich