Let us all unite as Mormons

Have you ever wondered when you’re outside of Utah, why people always make fun of Utah Mormons? Especially from members of the same religion! They say that us Utah Mormons are extremely judgmental, and think we are better than the rest of the world. As a Utah Mormon why don’t we unite together and show the world who we truly are. Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Not a “Utah Mormon”

Growing up in Utah I just assumed that the rest of the world was the same. I thought mostly everyone were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. As I grew older, I started to learn differently as I would visit other places. I started to realize how people would actually make fun of Utah Mormons. At first I was offended hearing this. My prideful self wanted to retort and tell these people a piece of my mind. However, I became very disappointed as I came to know these statements were somewhat true.

I was able to spend a couple years in California, there talking to a lot of people about the church; I came to find out that people would say they would never become a Mormon. I would like to share of an experience that stinks out to me more than the rest. I remember sitting in this mans home, (a good man, raising wonderful children, all getting accepted to prestigious colleges, and living great lives) as he told us of a story how his neighbors would not even wave to him. These members would not let their children play with his. He said it was very difficult for his children to have a social life at this time in their lives. He felt all the other kids would play with each other, but whenever his kids became involved they all had to go home. Yes I can understand that there are always two sides to any story, and that he could have been exaggerating a little. However, because of his experience that he did have, he said would never become associated with such a denomination.

As I heard this story it made my heart sink, to know that as I was working with all my might to represent Jesus Christ. Members of this same church would act in such a way that resulted in people who needed a change, and the gospel in their lives turn us down without even giving our true message a chance!

Whenever I think about how members of any religion treating its members poorly, it makes me think of a story during WWII.  A couple of soldiers were fighting in the German army; they were captured and put on a train as a prisoner of war. As they were on a train going through France they made a stop. There a cardinal of the Catholic Church threw garbage at them, and discriminated these young German soldiers for doing what they new to be best. One of these young men was my grandfather, (A strong member of the Catholic church at the time). I remember my grandfather telling me this story when I was just a boy, and because of this experience alone, it showed him what kind of people the Catholics are and decided to never be a part of that religion anymore.  This story has had a huge impact in my life. Helping me understand how our actions make a big effect on people

One last story is one that I beat myself every time I think about it. When I was about 10 years old, we had a church Halloween party. At the party I saw a kid I have never seen at church. I remember thinking to myself how this kid does not deserve to be there because he hasn’t come to church at all. To be honest I called this kid out, which resulted in hurting his feelings. I never saw him again. I don’t know what ever happened to this kid or where he is at in life. I don’t even know if he was a member or not. However, I wish I could take this experience back in my life. This was an example how I judged someone irrationally, Thinking he didn’t deserve the same treatment as me because I went to church each week.

I have loved growing up in this beautiful state! I love the people here. It is because of you that make this state such a great place. I understand at times why we would want the best for our kids-not wanting them to have friends who have bad morals (which I do understand some non-members have lower values)- or maybe a little scared to leave our comfort zone and talk to our neighbors, especially if they live a lifestyle that is not similar to ours. To simply put it, I understand that we are humans too and we are not perfect either, and we all make mistakes. But why not help those who are in need, who are struggling.

            Jesus Christ himself said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Let us all do as Christ says. To have our light shine before men! How do we exactly do that? To love everyone whom we meet. To not judge them, whether they are white or black, male or female, Mormon or non-Mormon. And to not make my mistake I did, and always invite people to activities and befriend them. God wants us all to return to live with him. He loves all mankind and wants us all to succeed, not just those members of His church. So shouldn’t we have this same belief and do everything in our power to help out mankind, by befriending them and showing them our true love? As we do this people stop thinking that as a Utah Mormon we are judgmental. They will see us who we truly are; sons and daughters of God.