Struggling with a calling

[Anonymous]

I don’t like to get put on the spot like that either. Just the way I am. And I react pretty much the same way, except I don’t put up with people’s criticism.

It is still standard practice to check with the wife when calling the hubby to a position like that, but I do get the extenuating circumstance. Usually when we do a bishopric here it’s a matter of getting it done in a week or less.

[Anonymous]

Tica wrote:

Also, not feeling super positive about the whole thing today as they called me up to bear my testimony with no warning in Sacrament meeting.

My favorite testimony was from a recent convert that was dating a friend of mine and was emigrating from an eastern block country. She was called upon to share her “conversion story”. She said that her boyfriend (my friend) had been pressuring her to join the church in order to move forward in the relationship. She wasn’t sure what to do so she called her mom back in the old country. She explained the situation and her mother responded, “Sure, why not? Join his religion and marry the boy.” So she did.

Best Conversion Story EVER! 😆 😆 😆

[Anonymous]

These are all great responses. Your fears and worries are valid. I am sorry it’s stressful for you at this time.

I can also see how you would have that tinge of jealousy that he has a community, and you wish you had something similar for how you feel and wish you could openly just do your thing and be validated, not feel “less than” in any way.

But it seems the church has one path outlined. Like Lehi’s dream… they preach there is only one way, and everyone that veers off that path gets lost in the mists of darkness…and that helps them feel safe.

Perhaps your unofficial calling will be a voice to your husband and the ward when you can see things from your perspective that maybe they can’t.

Let your husband walk his path and celebrate his success. But also walk your path and ask to be supported equally, because your heart is pure too.

You can be a reasonable voice to say things that others may need to hear, including the leaders. And help he leaders see it is ok to have multiple points of view on many subjects.

With most situations in life…it will sometimes suck, sometimes be wonderful…and if you keep a positive outlook…you can find the good along the way, despite the bumps that will surely be there.

I’m glad you share your views here. You have a community that supports you here.

[Anonymous]

Quote:

Let your husband walk his path and celebrate his success. But also walk your path and ask to be supported equally, because your heart is pure too.

You can be a reasonable voice to say things that others may need to hear, including the leaders. And help he leaders see it is ok to have multiple points of view on many subjects.

With most situations in life…it will sometimes suck, sometimes be wonderful…and if you keep a positive outlook…you can find the good along the way, despite the bumps that will surely be there

.

Thank you! I think this was just what I needed to hear. I hope that I can be courageous enough to walk my path and speak my truth in a positive supportive way.

And, Roy, that testimony was brilliant 😆

[Anonymous]

Quote:

While I am looking for community elsewhere at this point in time, I still do have a deep, visceral longing for a spiritual home at church.

Feel free to make us part of your community. I know we aren’t face to face but we are around almost everyday. We have each walked a similar road. That can often help as we navigate beyond stage 3 (Roy’s perfect wording).

Remember that community building can take a few years. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen instantly. Sometimes just being in “the church” makes those first steps easier. Everyone knows the routine, the lingo, etc. Stepping out you learn new lingo, different routines. Many of us here have and still do it. We are happy to hear you as you go along.

Your feelings are super valid. Mary Fielding Smith is smiling on you right now. She struck out as she saw fit. You can, too.

[Anonymous]

mom3 wrote:

Your feelings are super valid. Mary Fielding Smith is smiling on you right now. She struck out as she saw fit. You can, too.

Thanks, mom

[Author]

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