So I just updated my facebook status to something that Boyd K Packer said in this last General Conference. And as soon as I posted it, I thought to myself, "I wonder what kind of feedback I'm going to get because of this."
Personally, I admire the boldness with which Elder Packer spoke. Many of us feel strongly about the subjects that are in heated debate right now, but when we share our feelings with those who feel differently, we soften our opinion. We give disclaimers and back down, presenting our side of the argument with words like, "well..." and "just because..." and "my church believes...". But why should we? Why do we?
Just as others have the right to speak out for "tolerance," we also have the right to demand "tolerance" for our point of view. We have the right to skip all the disclaimers and excuses and say, "This is what I believe." Done. Sealed and sent. You have core values. Make decisions when you vote that reflect those core values. If you believe people should live as you strive to live, do not help pass laws that would allow them to do otherwise. It is an ultimate disservice to sit idly let your fellow men live in sin. There is a distinct difference between right and wrong. We know this because we see the blessings and the joy that comes when we live the commandments.
Ok I'm getting preachy so I'll stop. But I just wanted to let this blog know that as time goes by, people are going to get angrier and angrier at people who try to stand up for what is right. So the question is, are we going to have the courage to speak out for what is right? Or will our opinion be smothered by those who threaten us?
Because, after all: "Those who stand for nothing, fall for anything." - Alexander Hamilton
