I can’t be the only one struggling with this

We have at least two posts dedicated specifically to the issue of garments, and one of them has dozens of comments. I will find at least the long one and bump it up for you to read. (I found it. There are 81 comments.)

Also, welcome. I think you will find people here who understand.

I wore them for 30 years and finally got tired of them hanging below my knees. I figure that when the church either lets me make bottoms that fit me, or makes sizes that work for me, I will wear them again.

I just can’t do it anymore. I just had a baby, and while pregnant I justified not wearing the dreadful things because I was already uncomfortable enough. Now that I’m trying to wear them again it’s making my skin crawl just thinking about it.

I can’t be the only one with this problem?

You are NOT alone! And this is a safe place to express yourself.

maggiemoo,

I continue to wear mine for the following reasons:

– I don’t own any regular underwear

– After so long, I actually find them comfortable

– My wife is still faithful, so I don’t want that to be one more issue

If you want to wear yours, wear them. If you don’t, then don’t. One thing you’ve probably noticed on this site is that there is a much higher degree of individual choice here than in the general church population. Garments are supposed to be a reminder to you of your devotion to God. If it doesn’t work for you, nobody else needs to give permission to you to stop wearing them. I occasionally wear a cross around my neck (but under my clothes so that it’s not visible). When I do it, I find that it is a great reminder of my belief in the good of Christianity (as a practical way of living) and of the good people who have embraced it in their lives. For me, it is far, far more effective as a reminder than garments are.

I do appreciate the concept of garments, as something that you wear under your street clothes as an inner symbol of devotion. I think this is a powerful idea. By contrast other religious symbols are often worn as outer signals of devotion; to show others that you are devout… I have no problem with people wearing outer symbols, except when it is done specifically to make themselves appear holy to others. So, if garments don’t work for you in that way, there is no reason to wear them (IMO). Maybe think of finding something else that does, and use that as a substitute.

I have issues with the garments as well. Lately I’m not wearing them as much for various reasons. I think a spaghetti strap cami and boy shorts would be wonderful! Sadly, I don’t see that ever happening. I applaud you for even bringing it up with your friends. You’re a braver soul than me. :clap:

Maybe a committee will haggle some more about designs and fabrics. But whoever gets rounded up to “work” on garments isn’t ME. I will never again look for permission to feel comfortable and feminine in my own mind, my own house, my own marriage.

Instead of the moment when other people look at you like you’ve got two heads for suggesting garment changes, I’ve decided to pay attention to that moment when I looked at myself in the mirror and thought, “You have never, ever been happy with how you look in garments. You have one life.”

There are things about wearing garments that I like. Let me wear them when and how I choose.

I have not had a pair on in over a year. Most comfortable year of my life except when I was a teenager. When I did wear them I was not in agony or anything and got rather use to them. But then as my disaffection grew they became a not a sign of my devotion but a symbol of my bondage.

I am sure I will offend but I think garments need to go completely. No modifications necessary just get rid of them. They are a tool of control. God does not care what underwear you have on.