[sjdean]

lilered, what do you mean, my expectations? Really quite as I posed. Just, I never thought about alcohol and the effect that stepping into a bar with like minded individuals can have. Perhaps there is something in avoiding it. No temptation. No risk of "letting your guard down".

I never thought about it in those sort of terms before. So I think I understand more about how the idea of "avoiding the appearance of evil" works, even if I haven't given a text book explanation.

And Ben, when I say "evil" people, Im not just talking about drunks here. Im talking about just people in general. It's easy to look just at the superficialness, "judge a book by its cover", use stereotypes and stay away from people because they look "questionnable".

But my recent experiences have made me realise how wrong that is. I've been there, I've judged someone on their appearance, where they are, what they're doing (and I don't necessarily mean in a bar and drinking). But there are a lot of those people who quite simply have hit rock bottom, they need help, and they're polite, warm and friendly.

So I have a real problem with the word "appearance" because appearances can be deceptive.

So I sort of understand the philosophy of "appearance of evil", but I disagree with deciding something is evil based on appearance.

Sorry for any misunderstanding. Perhaps this should have gone under General Discussion instead. But it would be interesting to hear a LDS persons take on my ramblings because I may have a huge misunderstanding on the "appearance of evil".

With relation to your last paragraph - well, a bordello is a bordello, that's quite different to just a bar. I went out last night with friends, and made a point of just drinking cola. And I had a great night socialising. With no beer! But it was tempting.

Cheers
Simon