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LDS leader's '07 address still causing controversy
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DW | 1:31 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
After reading some of the misguided, feminist comments in this article, it is
truly sad that a few intellectuals have such a large voice on the role of
motherhood. The notion that it is degrading and that secular thinkers and career
women are so much better off for expanding their horizons far beyond the realm
of the home is also false.
I work with several female physicians, none of them members of the Church, who frequently lament their choice and express how conflicted they feel for choosing a career that takes them away from their children too much. Nobody has been brow-beating them with the restored gospel their whole lives, but they seem to sense that their role as a mother is far greater than the career they have chosen. How do they know that?!
I work with several female physicians, none of them members of the Church, who frequently lament their choice and express how conflicted they feel for choosing a career that takes them away from their children too much. Nobody has been brow-beating them with the restored gospel their whole lives, but they seem to sense that their role as a mother is far greater than the career they have chosen. How do they know that?!
One Lost Puppy | 1:37 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
From one lost puppy:
"Any thinking church member should know that the Lord doesn't really have much to do with his own church."
Uh, what?
On the contrary, even those who may not belong to the LDS religion, even any religion, can understand the logic that if God has a church then He'd be interested in what goes on inside of it. Otherwise, why would God have instituted it?
"Any thinking church member should know that the Lord doesn't really have much to do with his own church."
Uh, what?
On the contrary, even those who may not belong to the LDS religion, even any religion, can understand the logic that if God has a church then He'd be interested in what goes on inside of it. Otherwise, why would God have instituted it?
Comments continue below
Re: AM on August 8th | 1:38 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I smell a rat.
No "real" LDS member worth their weight in salt would say that they need to "sift through the garbage presented to us" in church meetings to find morsels of truth.
Me thinks you're a non-LDS person just here to stir up trouble.
No "real" LDS member worth their weight in salt would say that they need to "sift through the garbage presented to us" in church meetings to find morsels of truth.
Me thinks you're a non-LDS person just here to stir up trouble.
"SJ Bobkins" | 1:44 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
You are a fool.
Taylor | 1:52 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Why don't people get it. The church was not created to express
individualism. It is a vehicle to create a prefect society. A society of peace,
prosperity, and happiness. This can only be accomplish if we sacrifice. Men must
give up that "natural man" and become "saints". Men have to
become examples to our children and not run after the world. Children need
Mothers willing to sacrifice what they want for the needs of the child. This is
the ultimate sacrifice we must all give to become like our Heavenly Father. He
gave could have enslaved his children to do his will; but instead he gave us his
life to serve us.
If you don't like that idea of creating an ideal society (which God has asked us create), the world teaches individualism where you can do whatever you feel is right. I choose to try to create that society. I praise every woman that has the ability to be a MOTHER. That is why we must choose for ourselves what path we will follow.
If you don't like that idea of creating an ideal society (which God has asked us create), the world teaches individualism where you can do whatever you feel is right. I choose to try to create that society. I praise every woman that has the ability to be a MOTHER. That is why we must choose for ourselves what path we will follow.
GUILT | 1:53 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I was in no way offended by her talk, why? b/c I am not doing anything wrong in
my life. Those who choose to get offended point your finger at yourself, the
truth hurts, doesnt it??
Is This You? | 1:56 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
"And it came to pass that I said unto them that I knew that I had spoken
hard things against the wicked, according to the truth; and the righteous have I
justified, and testified that they should be lifted up at the last day;
wherefore, the guilty taketh the truth to be hard, for it cutteth them to the
very center." - Book of Mormon, 1 Nephi 16:2
I am not trying to be cruel, people, but if Sis. Beck's talk offended you, you need to make some changes in your life or at some point in time, suffer the consequences.
Now, you must decide, are these merely the words of a fellow human being posting this, or are the words from this guy, "Nephi", the words of an ancient prophet called by God?
Everyone must decide for themselves.
I am not trying to be cruel, people, but if Sis. Beck's talk offended you, you need to make some changes in your life or at some point in time, suffer the consequences.
Now, you must decide, are these merely the words of a fellow human being posting this, or are the words from this guy, "Nephi", the words of an ancient prophet called by God?
Everyone must decide for themselves.
way to go, Sunstone!!!! | 1:54 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
All that you Sunstone "intellectual"(??????) boo-wooers (and you
wanna-be Sunstoners)accomplished was to send everybody running for their old
Ensigns or to lds.org to re-read Sis. Beck's talk---to see what they must
have missed that has caused all this aggrieved howling. And what did anybody
discover after all that? That it is YOU who have a problem!!
y'all and your numbers | 2:11 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Please remember when you are quoting numbers that 13 million may be the stated
membership, however, at least 50% are not active - 7.5 million, at least 50% are
children - 3.75 million, and it's about fifty-fifty male/female -
therefore, generously 2 million women active in RS around the world. The LDS
church has stated there are more members outside North America, so now
we're down to 1 million active women who had a possibility of hearing about
the website for those who feel disenchanted. There are 500 respondents is
likely more significant than you think.
It is telling that when women have left the church or been excommunicated, especially when it is due to the issues under discussion, that members discount them automatically. Have you considered for even a moment that these women did not walk out the church doors with a smile on their face, but rather with great heartache and turmoil of conscience to walk the path of integrity for their lives? Can you scoff so easily at the heartrending decision to leave?
It is telling that when women have left the church or been excommunicated, especially when it is due to the issues under discussion, that members discount them automatically. Have you considered for even a moment that these women did not walk out the church doors with a smile on their face, but rather with great heartache and turmoil of conscience to walk the path of integrity for their lives? Can you scoff so easily at the heartrending decision to leave?
Unfortunate.... | 2:22 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I feel sorry for those who would like to have children but haven't had the
opportunity. Children are very challenging and there are lots of menial tasks
associated with their upbringing. However, I can't think of anything more
rewarding than creating a living person, teaching him/her right from wrong, and
seeing him/her make good decisions and become kind, loving, successful
individuals. I graduated with honors from a respectable University and enjoy my
occupation. However I get no where near the joy in my employment that I get
from my children and spend time with them. I wouldn't sell either of my
children for all the money in the world, for awards, recognition, power, or
whatever. I'm making 100x the difference in my childrens' lives than
I'm making at work.
What if your mother would have chose an occupation and business success rather than having children? You wouldn't exist. People are free to make the choice not to have children, and enjoy fine dining, exotic vacations, big toys, and there free time. I don't have a problem with that. As for me and my house, we love our family!
What if your mother would have chose an occupation and business success rather than having children? You wouldn't exist. People are free to make the choice not to have children, and enjoy fine dining, exotic vacations, big toys, and there free time. I don't have a problem with that. As for me and my house, we love our family!
Not Thankful Enough | 2:25 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I am an LDS husband and father to 4 beautiful children. From the day I started
my professional career, over 17 years ago, my wife has stayed at home. For over
16 of those years she has been a stay-at-home mother. Some days my work hours
are short, other days, they are long. Always, though, my wife, a quiet,
unassuming stay-at-home mother, has worked harder, endured longer and sacrificed
more than I have in "the working world".
Anyone that says that LDS mothers who stay at home to run a household and raise children are doomed to live lives of quiet failure are, to be blunt, completely clueless.
I'm a proud, passionate U.S. Air Force pilot who defends your great country and my Latter-day Saint wife makes me look like a sissie.
After being married to my sweetheart for almost 20 years, I am convinced that what makes me wife so strong is her willingness to dig in and get the job (of being a mom) done and done right. I am a lucky man indeed, and as soon as I post this, I'm going to tell her so.
The caravan moves on!...
Anyone that says that LDS mothers who stay at home to run a household and raise children are doomed to live lives of quiet failure are, to be blunt, completely clueless.
I'm a proud, passionate U.S. Air Force pilot who defends your great country and my Latter-day Saint wife makes me look like a sissie.
After being married to my sweetheart for almost 20 years, I am convinced that what makes me wife so strong is her willingness to dig in and get the job (of being a mom) done and done right. I am a lucky man indeed, and as soon as I post this, I'm going to tell her so.
The caravan moves on!...
Betsy | 2:28 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
As a single woman I felt Sis.Beck was correct. When I become the mother that is
the ideal that I want to seek for. I also wonder about those who are having
hissy fits what do they think they will be doing in the next life ? Not on some
career path that is for sure.
Ben | 2:38 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Not a fan of Utah mormons. But sis Becks talk was wonderful. I do not see why so
many women have to cry about what she said. I believe if they chose to follow
the counsel their lives would be greater enriched. Sad so many mormons cry after
general conference. Become a man or women. SIs Beck is awesome!
A Greatgrandfather 31 times | 3:05 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Primary children are taught to and sing "Follow the Prophet". It
sounds like too many adults never learned or forgot that! It is time you critics
turned your upset inward on yourselves and "Follow the Prophet"! When
you have the "calling" from God to advise the whole Church and His
authority to do so, then you may be given the chance to advise us in conference.
Until then you really need to "Follow the Prophet" or you will be left
behind. You need to build your own testimony,and not presume to "lead"
the Church. "Many are called, but few are chosen...", and you know the
rest. May you strive to be "chosen" and not "critic"
yourselves out of Eternal Lives.
Ernest T. Bass | 3:10 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Imagine that, girls like to use their brains for more than just producing
offspring and ironing their husband's shirts.
An LDS Father FIRST (not an ATM) | 3:19 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I cannot believe all of the views that people got out of Sister Beck's Talk. A wive is there to stroke her husband's Ego?
Come on.
Women have more to offer to this world than to act as a cuff-link on her husband's shirt.
I heard Sis. Beck's talk, and while I agreed with it, I think in no way does it absolve the father of his responsibility to be a parent.
I also believe that women not only have a right to recieve and education, but it a necessity.
Husbands do die, people get divorced, and if your talking "family values" and "family preparedness", would it not make sense to have the wife prepared to step in and take over in a worst case scenario? Would the wife be better working at the quickie-mart or have an education and be prepared to step into a professional job.
My wife has her Master's Degree, and while she stays at home, I understand that she is with me because she chooses to be there, and not because she's afraid to leave because she would wonder where the money comes from.
I think many of you are setting yourselves up for failure.
Karen | 3:19 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Sister Beck was calling women to be united and immovable in the cause of Christ
and in defending Eternal Families. It sounds like most people did not read or
listen to the talk with a prayer in there heart to understand by the spirit.
This talk was inspired and very direct and clear. Please read it again and pray
to understand the message. It is truly a remarkalbe message. I hope we can
rise to the call and unite as women to defend families.
PeppeRiviera | 3:31 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
It is so intriguing that the DN chose to do a story on this roundtable, when it
most assuredly (from the percentage of comments from readers) is a very small
minority viewpoint of the issue at hand. News has truly moved away from finding
the balanced truth and toward direct manipulation of what is an important event.
If this newspaper were after the real story, and the correct reaction to the original talk, it would have 80-90% of it's article about the supportive viewpoint and 10-20% of the negative. This article is the exact opposite. In responsible journalism, the event should not have been covered without more research to find the percentage of reaction to both sides first. News writers and editors are merely entertainers, but under a subtle guise of "the facts", and articles should always be read with that in mind.
If this newspaper were after the real story, and the correct reaction to the original talk, it would have 80-90% of it's article about the supportive viewpoint and 10-20% of the negative. This article is the exact opposite. In responsible journalism, the event should not have been covered without more research to find the percentage of reaction to both sides first. News writers and editors are merely entertainers, but under a subtle guise of "the facts", and articles should always be read with that in mind.
Re: y'all and your numbers | 3:34 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
500 out of 1 million is .05%. Thats 5 out of 10000, which is not significant.
Sorry.
John Pack Lambert | 3:42 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
To SJ Bobkins,
Your reaction to Sister Beck's statements about proper attaire in meetings has a lot more to do with your lack of respect than anything else.
First, as I did point out before, the article is in theory about a reaction to a different talk than the one you mention.
Secondly, I will never get what is so hard about wearing a white shirt to church meetings. It is true that revernce is more than dressing nicely, being quiet, and speaking softly. On the other hand you are not reverent if you do not do these things.
Reverence is at core a respect for the Lord and his Church. People should have the common decency to realize that church is different than other things and should be treated as such.
I think we far too often act too casually and without enough reverence in church buildings.
It also strikes me as odd that someone who claims to be trying to reflect a personal relationship with the Lord in their actions would choose to not do something simply beause other people feel they should.
Your reaction to Sister Beck's statements about proper attaire in meetings has a lot more to do with your lack of respect than anything else.
First, as I did point out before, the article is in theory about a reaction to a different talk than the one you mention.
Secondly, I will never get what is so hard about wearing a white shirt to church meetings. It is true that revernce is more than dressing nicely, being quiet, and speaking softly. On the other hand you are not reverent if you do not do these things.
Reverence is at core a respect for the Lord and his Church. People should have the common decency to realize that church is different than other things and should be treated as such.
I think we far too often act too casually and without enough reverence in church buildings.
It also strikes me as odd that someone who claims to be trying to reflect a personal relationship with the Lord in their actions would choose to not do something simply beause other people feel they should.
Ian Gillespie | 3:51 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Feelings of anger or confusion don't come from the Lord; they come from
Satan. Where the apostles and other Church leaders are concerned, if you
disagree or question something, the best option is to go to God in prayer. Ask
Him, and be willing to hear and accept what he says. He will answer. He will not
do anything that's not in your best interest.
RL | 4:01 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I found it interesting that these women expect the church to define their role,
but get upset when it doesn't fit what they are currently deliberately
doing, or faced with as what life has delt them. That seems sort of, well, self
absorbed. Like, "you must accept me, or I'll be really upset."
The fact is, the gospel is simple, and our resposibilities in it are simple. We
do what we can with what we are ABLE to. Then let it go. Don't get all
offended, and don't get all down on yourself. You know if you are doing
everything you can or not. Do what you can when you can, then let it go. The
leaders have said that repeatedly, just using different words to the same point.
Talk about getting hung up on a pointless pity-pot-fest.
ramper | 4:03 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
re: Lambert
I hope you are not saying a person cannot be reverent without a white shirt and tie. I am sure that is not what you meant. I am in a ward where members who have to work try to get in for sacrament wearing police uniforms, nursing uniforms, and some other blue collar attire because they are coming or going to work and it is the best they can do. I have seen some inner city people who do not even own a white shirt. Shame on anyone who would judge on such superficial nonsense.
I hope you are not saying a person cannot be reverent without a white shirt and tie. I am sure that is not what you meant. I am in a ward where members who have to work try to get in for sacrament wearing police uniforms, nursing uniforms, and some other blue collar attire because they are coming or going to work and it is the best they can do. I have seen some inner city people who do not even own a white shirt. Shame on anyone who would judge on such superficial nonsense.
remember the one | 4:14 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Numbers, schmumbers.
How can we reach out in love to those whose feelings are tender for whatever reason? Can we show more compassion? Can we offer a listening ear to someone who is overwhelmed in their situation?
500 = 1 struggling x 500 individuals. Looks like the we the undershepherds could be doing some more listening.
Not significant? WWJD?
How can we reach out in love to those whose feelings are tender for whatever reason? Can we show more compassion? Can we offer a listening ear to someone who is overwhelmed in their situation?
500 = 1 struggling x 500 individuals. Looks like the we the undershepherds could be doing some more listening.
Not significant? WWJD?
You go fellow saints | 4:17 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
But...
My sis-in-law, was raised LDS, went to BYU, married a returned missionary, and put her education on hold to have a faimly and be a cookie cutter wife.
Half-way through his masters program 5 years and three children later, she thought something was weird, and she confronted him, and found out that he was half-way though his sophomore year, had a girlfriend, and they were up to their eyeball in debt because she trusted her priesthood leader in the home.
Being 27 when the divorce was final, he kept moving around, jobs and all to avoid child support.
Not many men are looking for 27 year old wives with 3 kids, and so she took on employment which did not pay well, but provided basic necessities, and she was working until 7:00 at night, with family members all chipping in to raise these three beautiful daughters of God.
She did everything Sis Beck counseled, has always kept a current Tenple Recommend, and does not fit the cut-out Sister Beck described.
Some LDS women get lucky, some get screwed.
Before you all pass judgement, remember life throws you curveballs, and talks like Sister Beck's demean and hurt those that tried.
My sis-in-law, was raised LDS, went to BYU, married a returned missionary, and put her education on hold to have a faimly and be a cookie cutter wife.
Half-way through his masters program 5 years and three children later, she thought something was weird, and she confronted him, and found out that he was half-way though his sophomore year, had a girlfriend, and they were up to their eyeball in debt because she trusted her priesthood leader in the home.
Being 27 when the divorce was final, he kept moving around, jobs and all to avoid child support.
Not many men are looking for 27 year old wives with 3 kids, and so she took on employment which did not pay well, but provided basic necessities, and she was working until 7:00 at night, with family members all chipping in to raise these three beautiful daughters of God.
She did everything Sis Beck counseled, has always kept a current Tenple Recommend, and does not fit the cut-out Sister Beck described.
Some LDS women get lucky, some get screwed.
Before you all pass judgement, remember life throws you curveballs, and talks like Sister Beck's demean and hurt those that tried.
Chill Out | 4:19 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Some people will take anything said in general conference and find a way to blow
it out of proportion. So what if Sister Beck said one or two things you
disagreed with? Move on with your life and forget about it!
Istvan | 4:37 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I am an LDS male and wish to thank all of you for helping me waste 20 minutes of
my life sifting through the time-worn inane pros and cons of listening to the
General Authorities and then justifying their own thoughts and biases.
Read the Scriptures attend your meetings and live your life the best way you can that gives you joy and leave everyone else to do the same.
Remember there are only two things you can take with you into the next world. Your learning (inteligence) and your genealogy--ancestors and prodigy. Everything else is a waste of time.
Read the Scriptures attend your meetings and live your life the best way you can that gives you joy and leave everyone else to do the same.
Remember there are only two things you can take with you into the next world. Your learning (inteligence) and your genealogy--ancestors and prodigy. Everything else is a waste of time.
Clean up your own Backyards | 4:43 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I blew off Boyd Packer's "sex factory" talk, and also Sis
Beck's.
They don't pertain to us.
My wife and I are both college educated, have children, we both work and we are home when they leave for school, and when they return. We both help them with their homework, we read scriptures and pray together, we make meals at Dream Dinners so they are nutricious, fast and easy, and we eat as a family. We don't have "Family Night", because, in our house, every night is Family Night.
My wife hates cleaning and I hate mowing lawns, so we hire someone to do it for us. We spend that time with our children.
I, like SJBobkins, hate white shrts, so I don't wear them and I am told by my fellow High Priest that I don't set a good example for "their" kids... because I don't wear a white shirt (like I care... are their kids going to do drugs because of the color of my shirt?).
I have wonderful children, they get good grades, and don't get into trouble. They don't color during church and smash Cheerios into the pews.
Worry about yourselves, our family is fine.
CTR
They don't pertain to us.
My wife and I are both college educated, have children, we both work and we are home when they leave for school, and when they return. We both help them with their homework, we read scriptures and pray together, we make meals at Dream Dinners so they are nutricious, fast and easy, and we eat as a family. We don't have "Family Night", because, in our house, every night is Family Night.
My wife hates cleaning and I hate mowing lawns, so we hire someone to do it for us. We spend that time with our children.
I, like SJBobkins, hate white shrts, so I don't wear them and I am told by my fellow High Priest that I don't set a good example for "their" kids... because I don't wear a white shirt (like I care... are their kids going to do drugs because of the color of my shirt?).
I have wonderful children, they get good grades, and don't get into trouble. They don't color during church and smash Cheerios into the pews.
Worry about yourselves, our family is fine.
CTR
A Mormon stuck in 2008 | 4:57 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
My grandmother canned, made everyone's clothes, darned socks and
quilted.
She also drove old cars, had an outhouse, got water from the pump, had a coal burning stove, and a broom.
My wife doesn't need to do that anymore. We have a Smiths and a Mervins by our house.
Different times...
As much as I respect the advice of the prophets of old, they lived in the context of their times, and we live in ours.
Sister Beck's talk strangely resembled the movie "The Stepford Wives".
I hold a current recommend, but what is the fascination in the church of the "subserviant" wife?
Why are the males so threatened by a strong woman?
Why are the wives so threatened by the thought of going out and competing for a real job against other women?
We listen, then as the adults in our home, make our own decisions regarding our home.
The church is there to provide "advice", and doctine so that we can become an eternal family.
We'll make our own choices, thank you.
Being an active Mormon, I am always left thinking, Mormons are weird.
Peculiar, maybe, but definately weird...
She also drove old cars, had an outhouse, got water from the pump, had a coal burning stove, and a broom.
My wife doesn't need to do that anymore. We have a Smiths and a Mervins by our house.
Different times...
As much as I respect the advice of the prophets of old, they lived in the context of their times, and we live in ours.
Sister Beck's talk strangely resembled the movie "The Stepford Wives".
I hold a current recommend, but what is the fascination in the church of the "subserviant" wife?
Why are the males so threatened by a strong woman?
Why are the wives so threatened by the thought of going out and competing for a real job against other women?
We listen, then as the adults in our home, make our own decisions regarding our home.
The church is there to provide "advice", and doctine so that we can become an eternal family.
We'll make our own choices, thank you.
Being an active Mormon, I am always left thinking, Mormons are weird.
Peculiar, maybe, but definately weird...
Welcome to nutty JPL's world | 5:04 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
to: John Pack Lambert | 3:42 p.m.
Why do you care about SJBobkins.
I'm active LDS, and find his ability to think on his own refreshing. I would much rathe sit by someone "real" like him in priesthood, than the othe plastic Mormons.
Dude, raise yur own family and not someone else's.
Why do you care about SJBobkins.
I'm active LDS, and find his ability to think on his own refreshing. I would much rathe sit by someone "real" like him in priesthood, than the othe plastic Mormons.
Dude, raise yur own family and not someone else's.
Nuetral | 5:12 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Everyone Tries and sway people one way or another. Isn't it our first, true
impression that matters. What we've felt before being influenced by so much
controversy. Thanks for everyone who posted a genuine comment, that wasn't
just trying to stir up an argument.
Sorry | 5:11 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
"Re: y'all and your numbers | 3:34 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
500 out of 1 million is .05%. Thats 5 out of 10000, which is not significant. Sorry."
Each soul is precious in the sight of God.
I watched the Olympic opening ceremonies last night with my wife. We contemplated how God can love so many.
1.3 billion people in China.
As of June 2008, it is estimated to be around 6.7 billion.
Think about all the people who have previously inhabitated the earth.
Which according to your post makes you, not that significant either...
Sorry?
500 out of 1 million is .05%. Thats 5 out of 10000, which is not significant. Sorry."
Each soul is precious in the sight of God.
I watched the Olympic opening ceremonies last night with my wife. We contemplated how God can love so many.
1.3 billion people in China.
As of June 2008, it is estimated to be around 6.7 billion.
Think about all the people who have previously inhabitated the earth.
Which according to your post makes you, not that significant either...
Sorry?
observer | 5:13 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I do not resent counsel from the General Authorities. I believe, for the most
part, they are more than happy to let people think for themselves.
What gets me are the yahoos in the ward (I don't mean a bishop, just some knothead know-it-all) who think they know what I should do, and don't hesitate to tell me.
What gets me are the yahoos in the ward (I don't mean a bishop, just some knothead know-it-all) who think they know what I should do, and don't hesitate to tell me.
CW | 5:15 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
If you are single, don't worry about Sis. Beck's talk, it is not for
you. If you are a mother who is single or widow, my heart goes out to you and
you are the in the Lord's priority list. If you are a mother who is able
to and decides to stay home with your children, this talk should be very
inspiring for you. If you are a mother who is able to and does NOT decide to
stay home, that's when the issue starts. If you feel guilty about it,
reconsider what you are doing wrong. If truth offends you, you are not in
harmony with the spirit and the Lord's teaching. Please seek to reconsider
your decisions and repent.
Glenn Foley | 5:38 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
For faithful members earnestly striving to follow the Gospel, there was nothing
incorrect or upsetting about the talk. Sisters, know your place.
A Few Degrees Off | 5:41 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
First, I got a belly laugh from "Is this a typo?" cuz I didn't
understand the quote either. Way funny!
Those that signed "whatwomenknow.org" (and probably many Sunstone groupies) should consider reviewing President Uchtdorf's talk in April, 2008, General Conference called "A Matter of a Few Degrees" in which he reminds us "...minor drifts away from the doctrine of the gospel of Jesus Christ can bring sorrowful consequences into our lives. It is therefore of critical importance that we become self-disciplined enough to make early and decisive corrections to get back on the right track and not wait or hope that errors will somehow correct themselves."
The vast majority of our faithful sisters are "on the right track" and are definitely the strength of our families and our Church!
Those that signed "whatwomenknow.org" (and probably many Sunstone groupies) should consider reviewing President Uchtdorf's talk in April, 2008, General Conference called "A Matter of a Few Degrees" in which he reminds us "...minor drifts away from the doctrine of the gospel of Jesus Christ can bring sorrowful consequences into our lives. It is therefore of critical importance that we become self-disciplined enough to make early and decisive corrections to get back on the right track and not wait or hope that errors will somehow correct themselves."
The vast majority of our faithful sisters are "on the right track" and are definitely the strength of our families and our Church!
re:RL | 5:53 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I can accept who "I" am.
Why can't you???
Why can't you???
Ed | 6:26 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
My wife and I waited several years to have children. During these "wonder
years" we focused on our careers and financial security for our future
family. What a joyous time it was to share with my spouse. However, during
this time, we were also subjected to the occasional rude or ignorant comment at
church about not having children. (To date, this type of ignorance has not
diminished our belief in our Savior's Gospel) After making the collective
decision to start our family, our first son (#1) arrived and my wife began to
tele-commute, which did not interfere with the raising of #1. After the birth
of our second son (#2), my wife decided to hang up her "working
spurs." This was a collective decision made by loving spouses, but truly
an indiviual decision reinforced by spousal support. The point being, member or
non-member; respect, self-worth and definition of one's life comes from
within regardless of outside influences. Define yourself and no one can take
that from you!
Mary in NY | 6:49 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I don't remember hearing anything said by Sister Beck directed at single
women or working women. This talk was directed at those who are Mothers. The
talk was in line with the doctrines pinned in the Family Proclamation. She did
not condemn other roles that women play.
Even during pioneer days women worked outside the home as midwives and store keepers. They engaged themselves in women's suffrage rights and were encouraged to be educated and well informed. Those that were mothers tried to be good mothers. Those that weren't played their own unique roles in the kingdom. Nothing has changed. If you were offended by the talk ask yourself why. I can't find any reason to take offense.
Even during pioneer days women worked outside the home as midwives and store keepers. They engaged themselves in women's suffrage rights and were encouraged to be educated and well informed. Those that were mothers tried to be good mothers. Those that weren't played their own unique roles in the kingdom. Nothing has changed. If you were offended by the talk ask yourself why. I can't find any reason to take offense.
Anonymous | 7:02 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Sister Beck was right on and those who are offended may be feeling a little
guilty about their choices. I'm Utah born and have lived in other countries
and cultures and find that women everywhere face the same dilemas. Being a
mother is tough. Being a wife is difficult. Being single is difficult. Sometimes
are options we would choose but we choose the best when we can. Those who choose
selfishly probably do feel a little guilty and a little offended.
transplant | 7:47 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Seems this talk hit a raw nerve. I'm not surprised. However we choose our
religion,or not, as adults. We always have choices. If women are not treated
with respect all they have to do is leave. Churches cannot sustain themselves.
If women don't go and do the unpaid service work, it's a church of
cards and will fall apart.
I have the same questions for mormons as I do for catholics. You want women to work at home why on earth do you not give them a paycheck? Why don't you mormon women on the budget committee vote for it? It would be money well spent.
I have the same questions for mormons as I do for catholics. You want women to work at home why on earth do you not give them a paycheck? Why don't you mormon women on the budget committee vote for it? It would be money well spent.
Yawn | 7:50 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I'm just amazed there were so many people awake during Conference to get
upset!
Good Ole Sun-stoners | 8:21 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
They leave the church but can't leave it alone... Always gotta be
steadying the ark...
clarify | 8:29 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
As a ward librarian a few years ago, I had the opportunity to read a priesthood
bulletin that clearly stated there was NO dress code for Sacrament meeting.
Young men who were blessing and passing should be encouraged to wear a white
shirt, but it was not required and they should not be denied the opportunity to
participate if they had on another colored shirt. When Sis. Beck said white
shirt I don't think she meant it literally, just clean and pressed. I
don't think she meant hair brushed to perfection either. Anyone who has
fixed the hair of a small girl knows it probably won't last long. In
following the spirit of her words, I take it to mean, take the time to see your
kids are properly groomed for church. You'll all feel better. I've
seen many Mothers cringe, including myself when a deacon passes the Sacrament in
a shirt that probably was retrieved from under the bed that morning. Some
Sunday mornings are just that way, especially when you're dealing with
younger ones. I always felt better when they looked good and it was worth the
effort not to feel embarassed. No one says we're perfect.
Patty | 8:41 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I can't wait to read the 07 conference reports again. It must have been
very inspired to receive so much opposition.
Wonderful Talk | 8:51 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Sister Beck, Thank you. You were right on the money with your talk.
to Robert - I support Sr Beck | 8:57 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
Thanks Robert, you are right on.
You can all just read "Hold on to your kids" and some Bert Hellinger books. You'll see clearly that in many years of research it shows that mothers at home have the best outcome to raising productive adults who have an active positive part in society. The are an asset to society rather than a liability. Sister Beck was right on, she's got my support. The books by the way are from none LDS, just good old Ph.D's.
You can all just read "Hold on to your kids" and some Bert Hellinger books. You'll see clearly that in many years of research it shows that mothers at home have the best outcome to raising productive adults who have an active positive part in society. The are an asset to society rather than a liability. Sister Beck was right on, she's got my support. The books by the way are from none LDS, just good old Ph.D's.
Janet Garrard-Willis | 9:02 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
I find interesting the pervasive assumption amongst many of these comments that
anyone who believes women should have aspects to their identities besides or in
addition to motherhood must therefore be denigrating motherhood itself. I was
one of the speakers being roundly dismissed as an apostate liberal nit-picker,
another assumption I find odd. As it happens, I'm a fully active LDS
stay-at-home mom who thinks raising her kid is the best thing I've ever
done. I thought some of what Julie Beck said was fantastic and other things were
less so. Critically parsing someone's language doesn't mean
you're necessarily offended or even disaffected--it means you give the
person enough respect to think their words might actually matter. If I had no
respect for Julie Beck or the role she plays, I'd have simply ignored her.
Podium | 9:05 p.m. Aug. 9, 2008
It seems that Sister Beck is simply a scapegoat for a podium to use for some
peoples own agenda. Julie Beck has the ears of millions of people and by using
her name and misconstruing her remarks, people are drawn to their agenda. I
went to the Sunstone website and read one article that had 192 comments. I
thought "wow, this must be a popular site". Then I looked at the
names. I counted about 5 or 6 names. They were having a conversation with each
other. The church is not going to change with every wind of doctrine. We all
have free agency. Many of these people are either not members anymore or
still attend hating the doctrine. Would they have their ammunition without
attending church and listening to conference? It is their meal ticket! If they
don't agree with the doctrine or hate the messages from G.C., why attend?
Try writing a 20 minute talk that doesn't offend someone. I don't
think it is possible. That is why Jesus was continually persecuted. I find it
interesting that they are so angry with Sister Beck. Why not the LDS church in
general? She is just the messenger.
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That is completley laughable!!!
You are either an extremely in-active LDS member or you're a non-member pretending to be one.
Puh-lease!!, quit trying to make the LDS church and its leaders look like the Nazis of WWII.
I'm 42 years old and have been associated with the LDS faith all my life and know it takes a whopping lot more than just saying "I didn't like that" to get you excommunicated.
And yet, to those non-members that believe "Horrors! Members can't leave Mormonism if they want to!", all it takes is a request to remove your name from the rolls.
Rock on, Sis. Beck, rock on!