Trying to find a happy medium…

[Anonymous]

I know there are lots of great people in Utah (such as the GAs). I understand why people like it there, but it isn’t for me. At this point in my life, I would probably turn down most any job or calling that would require me to live in Utah.

I have a friend who once said “Mormons are like manure: When you spread them out, they do a lot of good; but when you put them all in one place, they just stink.” I’m pretty sure she heard it from somewhere else, but it’s till an awesome quote.

[Anonymous]

I loved growing up in rural, central Utah, even though I was an oddball in multiple ways.

I would not choose to live in Utah now, unless I felt compelled to do so.

Finally, I know it was hyperbole, but anyone who would choose to live in a literal war zone over Utah has never experienced a literal war zone – or is crazy. 😆 I assume you have never lived in a literal war zone.

[Anonymous]

I haven’t been in a war zone. Definitely hyperbole there.

I can say, however, that the last 3 years I spent primarily in Provo really put a bad taste in my mouth. It’s a nice place to visit and a terrible place to live.

[Anonymous]

Quote:

I can say, however, that the last 3 years I spent primarily in Provo really put a bad taste in my mouth. It’s a nice place to visit and a terrible place to live.

For an unorthodox Mormon, that generally is true; for an orthodox Mormon, that generally is false.

It’s important to make those types of distinctions, since the Provo environment is wonderful for a lot of very good people. It just isn’t right for us.

The same can be said of lots of places I have lived. Japan is great for many Americans; it is terrible for many Koreans. (The stigma and racism still are strong.) Boston is great for students; it is difficult for young couples with families. (cost of living) Alabama is great for conservative Republicans and Evangelical Christians; it can be brutal for Democrats and Mormons (and Muslims and African Americans and other religious and/or racial minorities). Cincinnati is great for Catholics; it can be difficult for mixed-race families. Rural Missouri sucks for everyone who wasn’t raised there. Northern Nevada is good for White Republicans and some Hispanics; it sucks for Black Democrats and some Hispanics. Central North Dakota works well for Republicans, Catholics, mainline Protestants (Lutherans, Methodists, etc.); it is difficult for Muslims, African Americans, and those who get cold easily. (-20 during winter is not uncommon)

The takeaway:

You probably shouldn’t find a job and spend your life in Provo – or anywhere in Utah except Salt Lake City proper, where over half of the population is not LDS. :thumbup:

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