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Now you probably think the subject I chose was just “clickbait”. But once you read the article, you’ll see its true. I’ve lived in Hawaii and understand how nice these people can be. Edit:
Out of an abundance of caution, I have removed the link. Here is the story below.
Quote:
The Manoa Ward was our spiritual home for several years. At the end of our last sacrament meeting in the ward, the bishopric invited Spencer and me to join them on the stand. The entire congregation stood up and sang “Aloha Oe” to us. I buried my face in my hands and sobbed uncontrollably the entire time as Spencer stood by my side with his arm around me. Words cannot describe how tender and sweet of a moment it was for us. Afterwards, there was an overwhelming line of people who came up to give us hugs and kisses, put leis around our necks, and wish us well on our next journey.During our elders quorum meeting, one of the members of the bishopric stood up in front of the class and with a crackling, emotional voice expressed his love and appreciation to Spencer and me for being in the ward, for what we taught everyone, for what we contributed, and for the Spirit that we possess. He went on to say that the singing of “Aloha Oe” that day was one of the most special and emotional ones he had ever witnessed and that there weren’t many dry eyes in the congregation. Again, tears streamed down our faces and my heart was bursting with gratitude.
After elders quorum was over, the Elders Quorum President approached me. He took off his tie and gave it to me along with a big hug. This same man once had to reluctantly tell me that because of the church’s policies, I couldn’t go on splits with the elders quorum anymore (since I was in a gay relationship). He hated having to tell me that and was more than compassionate and understanding when doing so.
It would be impossible to ever relate all of the amazing experiences we had in the ward; our gratitude is truly beyond measure. We were welcomed and loved as an openly gay couple and as fellow Latter-day Saints. While I’m sure there were plenty of differences of opinion and understanding among us all, the language spoken to us was always love. We left a piece of our heart in Hawaii with our friends and family and our church.
“Aloha Oe”
Proudly swept the rain cloud by the cliffs
As on it glided through the trees
Still following, with glee, the liko
The a hihi lehua of the valley
Farewell to you, farewell to you
The charming one who dwells in the shaded bowers
One fond embrace,
‘Ere I depart
Until we meet again
Sweet memories come back to me
Bringing fresh remembrances
Of the past
Dearest one, yes, you are mine own
From you, true love shall never depart
Aloha, oe, aloha oe,
E ke onaona noho i ka lipo
One fond embrace, a hoi ae au,
Until we meet again
Be careful. My security software went crazy with warnings on this link. Minyan Man wrote:Be careful. My security software went crazy with warnings on this link.
Was it the word “gay” in the link? I’ve had no problem with Rational Faith web site in the past. Are you seeing something fishy?
It was a “warning sign” that came up. I wouldn’t think it was the word “gay” that they key off of. I really like the message of the article. Thanks.
A link to Ratinal Faiths is fine. Feel free to add it to the post. Good article. That is the ideal.
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