Firstly, I am going to start by saying that I do not believe it is possible to be perfect, but I do believe in striving to achieve your best. I also believe that the religion you follow—or do not follow—does not define who you are, but rather acts as an assistant that emphasizes the morals you already hold. I was born into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, often referred to as the Mormon or LDS church. To understand me and my quirks, we have to dive into my religious background.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Most Southwest European countries are Catholic. If one were to ask them if members of the LDS church were Christians, they might say “no” because we do not believe in the traditional Holy Trinity, nor do we focus on the death of Jesus or the presence of the Virgin Mary in the same way. We also do not believe in the classical heaven-and-hell stereotype. Of course, this seems a tad strange to some, but there is an explanation.
Members believe in God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, but see them as three separate beings (Matthew 17:5 KJV). We focus on the resurrection of Jesus, His teachings, His moral guidance, and His Second Coming (Matthew 24:3 KJV). We believe in three different heavenly glories: Celestial, Terrestrial, and Telestial; we do not believe there is only one destination after death (1 Corinthians 15:40-41 KJV).
Another major difference is our moral code. While many Christians follow the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20 KJV), we also follow the “Word of Wisdom.” This is a collection of guidelines regarding health and conduct (D&C 89). Like most Christians, we read the Old and New Testaments (King James Version); however, we also study the Book of Mormon, the Doctrine and Covenants, and the Pearl of Great Price. Every detail of this history isn’t vital right now, but for those interested, more information can be found at churchofjesuschrist.org. I was born into this church, baptized, and have attended the temples—but just because I was raised with these standards does not mean I have never stumbled. It does not mean I will ever be perfect. But I try, and that is what matters.
The Commonality
“You’re weak and stupid.” What a comment to receive. Why is it that so many believe that having faith in something you cannot see means you are weak or manipulated? Why is it that asking for help makes you “less than”?
Why do we feel we need alcohol to dance in front of others, and why is it considered “strange” to dance while sober? Why do we put on a front when authority is watching, only to change the moment we are alone? Why are we called “weak” when we choose to be strong? For much of human existence, we have decided it is better to be liked by man than to fit well in our own shoes.
In the 21st century, the norms have shifted toward atheism or “self-love.” In many ways, this is far better! It is 100% better to stay true to yourself than to follow something that makes you feel small. However, I wonder: is the average person an atheist because that is truly how they feel, or because they are scared of being mocked for believing in something “not real”? Is “self-love” being used as an excuse to avoid taking care of our bodies?
We all know smoking and drinking can lead to health issues, yet we partake. We know gossiping harms both parties, yet we do it. We know lying breaks trust and jealousy causes stress, yet these habits remain. These “small” morals are often found in religious doctrine, but they are actually safety measures. If we are always under the influence, telling lies, or belittling others, our circle will shrink. If we choose to be the person “outside the circle” of these habits, we are often seen as weak—even if we are actually happier, healthier, and stronger.
To Be Human
I haven’t always wanted to be a Christian. I have made mistakes and broken rules. I have felt deep regret, which I now use to help me grow. I have been rude, and I have had moments of such profound sadness that I thought I wouldn’t survive. I am human.
But within my humanity, there are morals I refuse to break. I will never steal, because I cannot find the morality in making someone else’s day harder. I won’t litter, because it isn’t someone else’s job to clean my pollution. These morals come from my family, my experience as a big sister, and my religion. I’ve cussed like a sailor and I’ve put others down in the past, but I’ve learned. I’ve applied those lessons, and I’ve grown. Two songs in my religion, “Love One Another” and “If the Savior Stood Beside Me,” encourage me to be a better person. They aren’t restrictions; they are encouragements.
Miracles
I have had three major experiences that cemented my faith. One happened when I was too young to remember; I almost died, and after a priesthood blessing from my father and grandfather, I recovered almost immediately. The second involves my great-grandmother. After she passed, I prayed for guidance, and that night—and many since—I felt her presence and received the answers I needed.
The most “mind-blowing” situation happened in Canada. My friend and I had been sleeping in a car for days and were struggling to get along. One Sunday morning, we prayed together. I prayed for patience, a place to park, and a comfortable place to sleep. That day at church, we met an English-speaking family who offered us their home, a warm shower, and a tour of the town. One could call it luck, but I believe it was the genuine action of something greater than me.
Live YOUR Life
Your world does not revolve around the religion you follow or don’t follow; your world is your mindset. Even at your lowest points, look for the highest point. Look for butterflies and ladybugs as signs of positivity.
My final philosophy is the “Lucky Penny” rule. In America, we say if you find a penny heads-up, it brings luck. A penny won’t change your life, but if you believe hard enough, your mindset will shift. The beautiful part is that every penny found was placed or dropped by someone else. A tiny action that cost only one cent brought a moment of joy to a stranger. That is why we must all lay down our own pennies, heads-up, and keep our eyes open for the “pennies” others have placed for us.